《My Fantastic Chef Wife》 Chapter 1 - A Peasant’s Wife

Chapter 1: A Peasants Wife

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK It Hurts... When Ye Xiaoxian opened her eyes, she was shocked to find a strange man on top of her body. She wanted to resist him but her body was so feeble that she couldnt extract a bit of strength. After a while she passed out again. ... After who-knows-how-long, Ye Xiaoxian was woken by the cock-crows outside. She opened her eyes, finding the guy fromst night was already gone and the room was now empty. She was in great pain and it felt like her whole body had been torn apart. Except her head could move a little, her four limbs couldnt move at all. What...is this ce? She turned her head and nced at the low-roofed house made of earth. The corner of the house was cracked. There was a square table, a bench with one leg missing, and some potatoes and sweet potatoes scattered on the ground. Some bamboo leaned against the bed, with several pieces of male clothes hanging up on, which worn by people of ancient times. Ye Xiaoxian had a feeling of fullness in her head again with many pieces of memory shing in her mind. She held those pieces together and realized that she had time-traveled. She was originally chef of a five-star restaurant and had been awarded numerous times, but when she had ventured deep into the mountains in order to choose and purchase food ingredients, she had unfortunately been caught in a debris fall. Now she found herself turning into the current Ye Xiaoxian after waking up. Ye Xiaoxian had been raised in the Xiao family and was meant to marry the eldest son of the Xiaos, but the eldest son had been suffering from shattered health since a young age, and half a year ago he was even confined to his bed due to his illness. Ye Xiaoxianter became a widow before they had married formally. The second son of the Xiaos happened to return back home a month ago from the battlefield and he had reached the age of getting a wife, so Mrs. Xiao ne Li then tried to persuade Ye Xiaoxian and Junior Xiao to get married. On the one hand, Ye Xiaoxian didnt have to be a widow anymore; on the other hand, they could save some money for Junior Xiao to marry another woman. Ye Xiaoxian and Junior Xiao didnt agree to it at all because others wouldugh at them and such things would ruin their reputation. Ye Xiaoxian didnt want to marry Xiao Junior and neither did he wish to marry her, so her mother-inw, Mrs. Xiao ne Li, came up with an idea. She went to the pig farm in town and got some philter powder used to help breed pigs for the male boar to take. As she prepared the dinner, she sneakily poured the powder into their greens soup and, after they drank it, Mrs. Xiao ne Li locked them in the room. That powder was meant to be given to pigs however, and Mrs. Xiao ne Li was afraid it wouldnt be that effective, so she put some more in the soup. The previous Ye Xiaoxian was a fragile one and by no means could she bear such abuse, so... Mrs. Xiao, didnt little Ye say that she was going to hang herself and shed rather die than marry the Junior. Why did she suddenly agree to marry himst night? Outside the house, two women were chatting. s, she didnt wanna but she had to. You know whats going on in our family. The elder has already gone and the junior has reached an age for getting married, but our family has no money to get him a wife so I have no option but to marry little Ye to him. Didnt your junior oppose it strongly as well? He looked really stubborn, but why did he agreest night? Then Mrs. Xiao ne Li said in a proud tone, A viger has her own little idea and now whats done is done so they have to agree whats agreed. Ha-ha, Mrs. Xiao ne Li, arent you clever. I am indeed... Mrs. Xiao ne Lis maiden name was Li Hongmei. She was in herte thirties but still had some of her charm left. Though she only had worn-out clothes to wear, they had been washed and cleaned very well. She never forgot to decorate her hair with a wild flower so that she looked very tarty. ording to the memory of the previous Ye Xiaoxian, this Li Hongmei had been a harlot in a brothel when she was young. She didnt quit it until she married into the Xiao family, so she was quite open with things. Only such a person would manage to marry her elder sons widow to her second son for the sake of saving money. Chapter 2 - He Is a Frank Fellow

Chapter 2: He Is a Frank Fellow

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Little Ye, are you awake? Did you sleep well? Li Hongmei wore a smile with a trace of apology showing. Ye Xiaoxian had regained her energy and she was going to sit up. Little Ye, are you feeling rather sore? Its your first time, so you know... Li Hongmei put down the porridge bowl right away to help Ye Xiaoxian up. ... Ye Xiaoxian was kind of speechless. Li Hongmei thought that Ye Xiaoxian was sulking so she acted piteously and said, Little Ye, I know youre ming your ma, but think about it; since you came to our family, I treated you just as my own daughter. Didnt I give you everything my Baozhu had? But now we really couldnt afford to get Baoshan a wife, if not so, I wouldnt make you and Baoshan do...you know... Li Hongmei said this vaguely, but of course Ye Xiaoxian knew what she meant. Ye Xiaoxian came from the modern era and what she had been taught since was all about saving money and making money. Subconsciously she thought what Li Hongmei had done was not wrong and quite economic as well. Just that she was the target this time, so she needed some time to digest it. Ma, you didnt do anything wrong and I was obliged to you. After all little Ye was brought up by you, said Ye Xiaoxian. Hearing that Ye Xiaoxian didnt hate her, Li Hongmeiughed heartily all of a sudden. She took up the bowl immediately. Little Ye, drink the porridge first. Baozhu went grass-cutting and Baofeng went to chop some firewood. You just take a rest and no work for you today! Ye Xiaoxian was starving indeed, so she took up the porridge bowl, had a taste and knitted her eyebrows right away. It was made of Sweet potato and some wild greens with no meet or oil in it, and the wild greens were rather astringent, which made her want to throw up. Little Ye, why do you wanna throw up? Could it be that youve already...already conceived for just one night? asked Li Hongmei with her eyes opening widely. Ye Xiao Xian: ... Oops, silly me! Even if you have, its way too early for you to be feeling that way. When I was pregnant with Baoshan and his brothers, I didnt feel anything till the third month, ha-ha. Li Hongmei patted her forehead. Ma, where is Baoshan? Xiao Baoshan was the guy who spent the wedding night with her yesterday, so now he has the right to be her husband. Baoshan...he... Li Hongmei stuttered. He must be angry, isnt he? said Ye Xiaoxian calmly. ording to the memory of the bodys previous owner, Xiao Baoshan was a pretty stubborn guy and now he was forced by his own mother to do that with her, he must feel really angry. Baoshan, he...he is not that angry. He went to do some handyman job in the town and I reckon that hell be back in the evening, he-he. Mrs. Xiao ne Li sized Ye Xiaoxian up while she was talking when she felt that somehow the girl had been changed. If she were still the same as before, Ye Xiaoxian must have long been trying to kill herself yet now she was so calm like nothing had happened. Li Hongmei said again, Little Ye, you have my word. Baoshan was a frank fellow and since he had already been with you, he should ept his responsibility to you. If he doesnt, I wont let him call me Ma again! ... Ye Xiaoxian smiled faintly, wondering what age she was in when she was able to find a mother-inw who actually treated her daughter-inw so well. Nevertheless, ording to the bodys memory, this mother-inw of hers was indeed kind to her, not only raising her up but also having no air of authority. Ye Xiaoxian was just about to take the bowl, holding back her disgust, and drink the porridge, when another woman came from outside the door. That woman standing with her arms akimbo began to hurl all kinds of abuse. Its almost noon, why are you not working already? Dont think youre free of working cause you had sort of a wedding night yesterday. Youre going to do what you have to do as usual! Chapter 3 - All Daughters-in-law Are Trouble-makers

Chapter 3: All Daughters-inw Are Trouble-makers

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK The person standing at the door was Mrs. Xiao ne Wang, the elder daughter-inw of old Mr. Xiao. In the Xiao family the eldest was old Mr. Xiao, that was, Baoshans grandpa who had three sons. Mrs. Xiao ne Wang was the wife of his eldest son, Li Hongmei was the wife of his second son, and thest, Mrs. Xiao ne Chen, was his third daughter-inw. Li Hongmei was a prostitute in her early years, so she was picked on by the eldest and third sons wives since she married in. In the Xiao family, no one looked up on her apart from her husband who died early. Fortunately, she was born optimistic and cheeky. No matter whether they beat her or scolded her, she pretended to be alright. Now, as soon as Mrs. Xiao ne Wang came to shout at them, Li Hongmei also stood akimbo and scolded back. What work? What work? Have you ever been a bride or not? You havent been through a wedding night before? Your husband was ipetent and didnt serve you well back then, did he? You envy my Baoshan for having such a manly body, dont you? You...you indeede from the house of ill fame. I bet you know better than I do, Mrs. Xiao ne Wang continued her scolding. You dont do the work and whos going to cook todays lunch? Ill do it, wont I? said Li Hongmei. In fact, Li Hongmei was just arguing for the sake of it but she didnt really mean it. After all, she was a widow, and her second son just came back. Besides, there were another two little ones as well to feed. She had to work in order to survive in this family. After quarreling with Mrs. Xiao ne Wang, Li Hongmei immediately turned around and chuckled to Ye Xiaoxian. Little Ye, just lie down. Let your ma cook the lunch and bring it to you. Ye Xiaoxian looked at Li Hongmei. Although Li was a little coarse, this mother-inw was defending her in any case, so her affection for Li Hongmei had increased. Li Hongmei left the room, and Mrs. Xiao ne Wang was still standing there with her eyes staring at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian didnt evade either. She also stared at Mrs. Xiao ne Wang and said coldly, Does elder auntie want my ma to work alone? Its almost noon. If the lunch is servedte, Grandpa will scold again. Mrs. Xiao ne Wang rolled her eyes to Ye Xiaoxian and murmured, Its just a night the two spent together, does she really regards herself as the daughter-inw of the Xiaos? Look at how arrogant she is. I havent seen her being like this before. ... After Mrs. Xiao ne Wang and Li Hongmei went out, Ye Xiaoxian thought that she could finally have some quiet time herself. However, a few sisters-inw started quarreling outside. How can you wash vegetables like that? How should I wash them if not like this? Dont wash the pork so many times. Youve washed all the oil off. There will be no oil left when its stir-fried. Second sister-inw, can you be careful? The water has spilled on my feet! Third sister-inw, can you stop holding the kitchen knife like this? Knives have no eyes, and it almost killed me! ... The three daughters-inw of the Xiao family were all trouble-makers. They quarreled every time they got together. Old Mr. Xiao, who was living in the East Room of the courtyard, couldnt stand it. He came out on crutches and scolded them. Stop it all of you! Your men are all working hard outside and what about you? Just cooking a lunch and you end up quarreling like this! Old Mr. Xiao had always been the authority. He was the eldest of his family, and especially despised women. With such a roaring of his, all the women in the courtyard immediately calmed down. Old Mr. Xiao went back to his room andy down after shouting at them. In this house, he only gave orders and scolded people but do nothing else. He also had to be served with meals on the dot or he would scold others for being one minutete. Ye Xiaoxian suddenly felt a little fidgety again. This was a feudal family. It stressed that four generations should live together. All the money earned in the family should be handed over to Old Mr. Xiao to take care of and then distribute to each houses. Xiao Tieshu, the eldest son of old Mr. Xiao, and Xiao Tongshu, the third son, both worked in the town. They earned two taels of silver every month, however, these were the ounts as they imed them to be, but they must have kept some private savings for themselves. Both the elder and the third sons families were well off. They could afford new clothes for their own children during the Spring Festival, and the boys could go to school in the town. The second sons wife Li Hongmei whose husband died early and her reputation was not good, so all the familys hard and dirty work fell onto this iplete family, such as chopping firewood and cutting grass. Ye Xiaoxian had epted the fact that she had time-traveled and knew that it was not easy for a married woman to change her destiny in this era. All she could do now was to stay and make the life of the family better and improve her own life as well. Chapter 4 - Baoshan Returns

Chapter 4: Baoshan Returns

Ye Xiaoxian could finally get out of her bed in the afternoon. Once she came out, Mrs. Xiao ne Wang started to stare at her legs. All the peasant women in the vige said that once a woman had a man she walked differently. Naturally, those women were so pleased to study these things in their spare time. The previous Ye Xiaoxian was just a teen girl of fifteen or sixteen. Since she was ravished violently by such a big hunk as Xiao Baoshan while also drugged, both Mrs. Xiao ne Wang and Mrs. Xiao ne Chen thought that she must lie on the bed for three days. Ye Xiaoxian didnt give them a chance to stare but walked swiftly towards Li Hongmei and sat beside her. Li Hongmei was peeling peas to cook pork bone soup for lunch. Little Ye, you got out of bed so quick? Does it hurt? Are you hungry? Ill go to the kitchen to see if theres anything to eat, asked Li Hongmei in a sloppy manner. Im fine. Let me help you peel the peas... said Ye Xiaoxian. If she justy on the bed like that, the two senior women must have opinions, besides, the previous Ye Xiaoxian was a diligent girl so she couldnt just idle about. Good. Lin Hongmei passed half a basket of beans to Ye Xiaoxian and whispered, Just peel peas for today. It doesnt require much energy. ... Ye Xiaoxian didnt reply to Li Hongmeis question but looked around this big courtyard. The one living in the east of the courtyard was old Mr. Xiao, and the room had been reconstructed with bricks and ck tiles. The beams of the house were high as well. It was warm for him to live in the winter and also cool in the summer. A row of rooms in the middle of the courtyard were the elder and the third sons. Although the rooms were not so magnificent, at least the brickwork and tiling wereplete. In the west lived Ling Hongmeis family. There was a row of earth houses with low roofs and cracked walls, just like the pigsty Ye Xiaoxian had seen on TV. ... Ye Xiaoxian watched for a while. Then two childish voices came from the outside of the courtyard. Mother, sister-inw, we are back! Outside came a girl and a boy. These two were Li Hongmeis birth children. The girl was twelve or thirteen years old, and her name was Xiao Baozhu. The boy was eight years old or so, and his name was Xiao Baofeng. One was carrying grass for feeding pigs and the other carrying dry wood. One could easily tell that the two little ones were not idle loafers or else they would not carry so much stuff. Seeing them, Li Hongmei immediately came to help them unload their grass and firewood. Are you hungry? Can ma get you something to eat? asked Li Hongmei. Li Hongmei had only just finished asking when Mrs. Xiao ne Wang, standing in the middle, began to shout. Didnt we get dinner prepared already? What are you thinking of feeding them? Just let them grab some sweet potatoes on the kitchen range. Li was not very happy. Baozhu and Baofeng have been working for a whole day and they cant even have something to eat? I didnt say they cant but if you make something for them now and then we have dinner, isnt it that they have two meals in such a short time? Isnt it a waste? You... Li was going to argue again; meanwhile, Baozhu hurried up and calmed Li down. Ma, sweet potatoes are alright for now. We can eat dinnerter. Baofeng also said, Yea, ma. Were not hungry. But Ma is worried about you. Li loved them so much. At the same time, Mrs. Xiao ne Wangs youngest son Xiao Baocheng came back as well. Xiao Baocheng was ten years old or so and went to private school in town. He said loudly once he came home, Ma, Im starving! Oh, there is some leftover pork skin and rice. Ma is getting some for you! Mrs. Xiao ne Wang giggled. Hearing that, Li suddenly got mad. Elder sister-inw, Baozhu and Baofeng just finished their work and you let them eat sweet potatoes. What makes you think your son could eat rice and pork skin? Mrs. Xiao ne Wang mocked, rolling her eyes, What makes me think that? I have the right to think that because we hand in two taels of silver every months. What about you? If you are so capable, why dont you hand in more money every month? You cant even fish out half a tael of silver per month, and yet still dream of eating all the time! You think all food is a windfall? ... As it came to money, Li Honhmei acknowledged her defeat instantly. Xiao ne Wang is right, Li paid the least amount of hand-in money per month. This was always Lis raw nerve. Every time she thought about this, she couldnt help but feel self-abased. Its all because I am so poor. Never mind. Whats the big deal about missing one meal? Lets eat the sweet potatoes for now and have dinnerter. Li Hongmeiforted her two children. Li was just going to the kitchen to fetch the sweet potatoes when she nced at the gate of the courtyard unintentionally. Aha, Baoshanes back! Ye Xiaoxians heart missed a beat immediately and then she also turned to the gate of the courtyard. Chapter 5 - Why Dont You Want to Marry Me?

Chapter 5: Why Dont You Want to Marry Me?

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Xiao Baoshan was big and tall and he had also gone to the battlefield, so he was beaming with energy. Ye Xiaoxian had been involved in restaurant industry for a long time. She had seen people of all shapes and looks. Her eyes were very sharp. Even though Xiao Baoshan wore clothes, she knew that this guy must have pecs and abs. Just look at his 190cm of height, inverted-triangle shape, and angr face. If you were to put him in the 21st century, who knows how many fans would be crazy about him. This time, she had stumbled upon a handsome man to be her husband. Xiao Baoshen came to Li first and said, Ma! His gaze fell on Ye Xiaoxian. He looked somewhat awkward because of what happened the previous night. On the contrary, Ye Xiaoxian curved her lips and looked at him frankly. Xiao Baoshen then felt tense. Ye Xiaoxian was bought by his family after he went to war. He had been to the battlefield for eight years and after he came back, he went to the town to be a handyman. Xiao Baoshan never paid any special attention to Ye and the impression she gave him was a timid and shy girl and she hid away every time she saw him. This was pretty much the first time that she stared at him in this way. Xiao Baoshan was a man who had many experiences so he wouldnt be tense long, so he said first, Sister-in...little Ye,e to the room with me. I have something to tell you. Okay. Ye Xiaoxian said inly. She put down the basket and stood up. Behind her and without even thinking, Li said loudly, Baoshan, go easy on little Ye. She was too fragile to do that several times a day. Xiao Baoshan: ... Ye Xiaoxian: ... ... There were only three earth rooms allocated to Li Hongmeis family. Li Hongmei, Baozhu and Ye Xiaoxian used to sleep in one room. Baoshan and Baofeng, the two sons shared one room and thest room served as a storage room. It couldnt be helped since they valued men and discriminated against women in this era. So boys needed to have their own bedrooms or they couldnt possibly get a wife. Now that Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan had spent a night together, naturally, Ye Xiaoxian must share a room with Xiao Baoshan. Li Hongmei cleaned out the stuff in the storage room and asked Mrs. Zhao next door to help build a new wooden bed for the couple, and so this was the room of Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan. When they entered the room, Ye Xiaoxian was about to close the door when Xiao Baoshan stopped her. Wed better not close the door or others will talk nonsense again. Ye Xiaoxian then left it open and sat on the edge of the bed and raised her head to look at him. Although Ye Xiaoxian was thin now, her oval face was very delicate. Especially when she raised up her chin slightly, with a light smile in her gaze, which looked very attractive. Again Xiao Baoshan stiffened. When he was in the military, hisrades-in-arms would talk about women in their free time. They said that a woman who had never experienced men was a raw fruit, not being very inviting, but once they had experienced men, they then became so ripe and juicy that men liked to bite into them. Maybe Ye Xiaoxian was that kind of a woman? What are you trying to say to me? said Ye Xiaoxian when she saw Baoshan just standing there. This Xiao Baoshan was very muscr and firm but he was somewhat uneasy towards Ye Xiaoxian, which made him cute in contrast. The next second, however, Xiao Baoshan suddenly became serious. He knelt down in front of Ye Xiaoxian and fished out a dagger. Ye Xiaoxian was startled! She had heard that in the feudal era, when women did something immoral they would be punished severely with things such as being thrown in a cage and sunk into a river or getting beaten to death by others. Could it be that this Xiao Baoshan was going to kill her? You...what are you going to do? asked Ye Xiaoxian. With stern countenance, Xiao Baoshan said, Little Ye, what happenedst night was because I failed to control myself and I did those brutal things. If you hate me, kill me! Hate? Ye Xiaoxian thought to herself that why should she hate him? He was such a looker and the pleasure was all hers. s, ancient men were so pedantic that it made her cringe. Since he didnt try to kill her, she was not that afraid of him. She then spoke inly, If I kill you, Ill be a widow, wont I? Whats the benefit for me? Xiao Baoshan stiffened for a while once again. He didnt know much about benefit or anything. He only knew that he took anothers virginity so he should pay the price. Ye Xiaoxian added, I was raised by your family, and I am bound to marry into your family in the future, but I didnt spend a single night with your elder brother, nor did I have a wedding with him. Your brother has gone, and so isnt it natural for me to marry you? Unless you despise me because I have no family and background. Is this the reason that you wont marry me? Chapter 6 - How Could I Despise You?

Chapter 6: How Could I Despise You?

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Xiao Baoshan replied immediately, Im a coarse man as well and I dont have any money or background. How could I despise you; its just... It is said that people get married under orders from their parents and with the help of matchmakers. We have been ordered to marry by our mother, yet youre making excuses trying not to marry me, and doesnt this mean that you look down on me? Now I have given you my virginity, but what did you do? You picked up a knife and asked me to kill you. You may as well kill me! Ye Xiaoxian pretended to be sulky, picked up the knife and threw it down to the ground brutally in front of Xiao Baoshan. ... Xiao Baoshan didnt expect that Ye Xiaoxian could be so eloquent; having been told off, he was unable to speak another word. He originally came to atone for his sins in a righteous manner, but after her criticism, it seemed that it was he who was trying to shrink from his responsibilities. Its all my fault, so I wont kill you. Xiao Baoshan found himself so confused that he almost forgot what he originally came to do. Just call it a day. Its almost dinner time and I have to go and help others, or grandpa will begin to scold me again. After she had finished speaking, Ye Xiaoxian left. She went out of the door, finding Li Hongmei eavesdropping. Li Hongmei tried to run away but it was toote so she had no option but had the nerve to smile awkwardly to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye, why didnt I find you so capable before? Baoshan has been left speechless after what you said to him, said Li Hongmei as she was walking. Ye Xiaoxian just smiled faintly and didnt say anything. Ye Xiaoxian pretended to be sulky, picked up the knife and threw it down to the ground brutally in front of Xiao Baoshan. Xiaos dinner wouldnt start until all the families were present. When it didnt rain, they set up a big table in the yard. Elders and men sat in front of the table having dinner while the women just stood at the side eating from their bowls. If there were minors in the family, the women would often chase their children and feed them. They could only start to eat after they had fed the children. Now the yard was full of hustle and bustle. People were making quite a noise. The current Ye Xiaoxian was from a single-parent family in herst life. Her father had another new family and her mother didnt really care for her. She used to dream of living in a big family, but now her dream hade true and she only felt annoyed by it. Old Mr. Xiao did not do any work but he made quite a fuss about the food. Todays sti-fried greens are too tough; the soup is not good either, too salty; and it doesnt taste like theres any meat in it, plus the eggnt is undercooked. Have you even thought about us old folk? All you think is about yourselves! Mrs. Xiao nee Wang quickly shifted the me onto Li Hongmei. These are all cooked by Sis Xiao nee Li. I said this to her and she was not willing to put one more spoon of oil in it. Who would know if it was because she wanted to rob some free oil from us and save it for her own people? Mrs. Xiao nee Chen chimed in, The soup was cooked by the second sister-inw as well. There are only two bones and I told her not to put too much water in it but she didnt listen. Old Mr. Xiao had always disliked Li Hongmei and once he heard what the other two daughters-inw said, he banged his chopsticks on the table and red up. Li, if it happens again next time, dont think about eating anymore! Your people dont hand in much money each month and you dont even know how to cook! Li Hongmei was not satisfied, but she didnt refute back. She just pursed her lips a little. But old Mr. Xiao happened to see this and he then said angrily, ording to our ancestors, women should always remember their female virtues of being cautious and respectful, but judged from your rebellious look, perhaps you would rather see me die soon so that no one will supervise you? Xiao Baoshan could not put up with it anymore. He put down his chopsticks and was about to speak for his mother when Ye Xiaoxian, who was standing aside, began to utter. Grandpa, elder uncle, elder aunt, third uncle and third aunt; theres something Id like to discuss with you! Although Ye Xiaoxians voice was not loud, she spoke in a dignified manner, and her gaze was firm. As soon as she opened her mouth, everyone looked at her. Still, their looks towards her were disdainful. Ye Xiaoxians position was the lowest in this family. She had only shared one night with Xiao Baoshan yesterday and she really regarded herself as the granddaughter-inw C did she say she wanted to discuss? Ye Xiaoxian didnt care what others saw her and just continued. Grandpa is right. Truly, our second family handed in the least money each month and thats why weve been working hard all these years; however, I dont see that theres much advantage in working hard since we are far behind those who hand in more money. Ive been thinking that it only makes everyone unhappy as it continues like this. So may I suggest that from tomorrow onwards, our second family will live separately, on our own? What do you think? Chapter 7 - How Dare You Suggest Living Apart

Chapter 7: How Dare You Suggest Living Apart

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK When Ye Xiaoxian finished talking, everyone was staring at her; some scornfully, some approvingly and some with surprise. The some who approved was in fact only one person Xiao Baoshan. Living apart was something that he had thought about when he returned home; it was only that he hadnt had time to put it forward. Mrs. Xiao nee Wang sneered. The only money-maker in your second family is Baoshan, am I right? He is only a handyman in the town and at best he can make one tael of silver each month, so how could he support all of you people? Being a handyman was not like being an attendant. A handyman was like a frencer who found jobs outside the town hall. One could only make money when there was work, and if there wasnt any work, he might wait for a whole day in vain. It was a temporary position. Being an attendant was a formal position whose primary role was to punish criminals, and they got paid monthly with a fixed wage of two taels of silver. Xiao nee Chen alsoughed. Little Ye, youve been raised up as a child bride yet you spoke with such grandeur. If you live apart for a couple of days and then you regret it, begging us to take you back, by then wouldnt you put your ma in an awkward position? Ye Xiaoxian didnt look angry or upset but still remained very rxed and calm. As we wish to live apart, we will never regret it. No matter how badly we live in the future, we will never go back and beg you! Old Mr. Xiao looked at Li Hongmei scornfully. Li, what do you say? Do you agree to live apart? I... Li Hongmei nced at Ye Xiaoxian first, wondering why little Ye had not discussed such an important matter with her beforehand. Then she saw Ye Xiaoxians calm looks and she thought that maybe little Ye had discussed it with Baoshan or she wouldnt be so decisive. She then nced at Xiao Baoshan who was now looking at little Ye and he was obviously agreeing what little Ye had proposed. She finally sat upright and patted her chest, answering, I have made up my mind. We should live apart. Though our second family is poor, we wont be too broke to support ourselves. We wont cause you any trouble in the future, living apart! Old Mr. Xiao threw his chopsticks again. All the elders in the vige didnt like their sons and daughters-inw living apart from the big family. They liked seeing their children around them, but in this case old Mr. Xiaos second son had died and Li Hongmei had been a harlot in the past. She didnt have much female virtue and her behaviour was quite reckless; moreover, none of her cooked dishes suited old Mr. Xiaos taste. He did not want her here a long time ago. He hadnt mentioned it before because he was afraid that other vigers would say that he was unkind, and now that Li Hongmei had volunteered it, he was beyond happy to hear it. Fine, since you want to live apart, then so be it. Just hand over 500 copper coins to me every month as a token of your respect, and as for other things, just suit yourselves! ... The matter of living apart had been settled. After the dinner finished, Li hongmei called Ye Xiaoxian and her children to her room right away. Candles were expensive in the countryside and they couldnt afford to light candles at night. Instead, they had to burn a kind of pungent smelling oilmp. As they were used to the smell, it didnt seem that bad any more. After Li Hongmei lit themp, she turned to Ye Xiaoxian with a smile. Little Ye, you were so impressive tonight and you dared to bring up the matter of living apart to your grandpa. Have you discussed it with Baoshan and alreadye up with a better way of making money? A way of making money? Ye Xiaoxian shook her head because she had never thought anything about this before. She just felt so annoyed living and eating with too many people in one big family, and she just wanted to live a peaceful life. Xiao Baoshan shook his head as well. The smile on Li Hongmeis face immediately disappeared. You didnt even discuss it? It has not been discussed that you are so bold as to propose living apart. s, Baoshan is the only one in our family able to make money. Baozhu and Baofeng are so small. What can we do if were unable to make ends meet? The reason that Li Hongmei could bring her children up was all down to her being so thick-skinned. No matter how the other two families and old Mr. Xiao bullied or tormented her, she could still put up with them and live together. This was for the sake of her children as well. Ma, welle up with a method. We have four limbs and its not hard to make a living, said Ye Xiaoxian. She had always been an optimist with a strong ability to survive and she was not afraid of starvation. Xiao Baoshan also spoke for her. Ma, little Ye is right. I didnte back before, so I made you suffer a lot. Now that Ive returned, you wont suffer any more. I might as well take more jobs in the town and I will definitely make you eat well! Xiao Baoshan finished talking and nced at Ye Xiaoxian once more. Ye Xiaoxian was looking at him at the same time. A faint smile in the corner of her eyes flickered, charming and enchanting, which made Xiao Baoshans heart somehow throb. Chapter 8 - You Can Find a Cute Guy Even in the Mountains

Chapter 8: You Can Find a Cute Guy Even in the Mountains

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Baozhu and Baofeng agreed also. Bao Zhu said in a wronged tone, I didnt want to live with them a long time ago. We have to chop down firewood in the mountain everyday. Nobody praises us for doing much work, though we get scolded every time we chop a little less firewood. We never see Baocheng and Baoshui getting scolded. Why dont they need to work but we do? Baofeng was still little so he would do everything his ma told him to. Li Hongmei felt both touched and self-reproached after she heard what her children said. s, its all mas fault. Im so useless that you have to put up with all these sufferings. Its not that I dont want to live apart but Im worried about you all being starved. Baozhuforted Li Hongmei, saying, Ma, dont be like this. Youve been suffering a lot too! Baofeng also said, Yes, ma is the best. Last year you took us to steal pork. You then got beaten around by the elder and third aunts but you didnt turn us in. Li Hongmei. ... The whole familyforted each other for quite a while and Li Hongmei seemed to find hope. She suddenly turned to Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian. Ive heard from the older generation before that within a family, nothing is more valuable than a married couple who has a united mind. You two are in a united mind so I reckon our lives in future wont get worse. Ye Xiaoxian. ... Xiao Baoshan. ... ... Nightfall. Ye Xiaoxian went to her room to rest after simply washing up. Sitting on this ancient wooden bed, she began to feel rxed. When she was a chef back at the hotel with very fiercepetition, in order to guarantee her position, she had to study recipes day and night and take part in various contests so she never slept well. Now that she was finally far away from that kind of life,ing to an ancient vige, although it was a poor life, she didnt have to risk her life in order to make a living. The priority right now was to improve the whole households life, and as for the living methods...she felt that she had to go around and have a look nearby. As she was thinking, she heard someone knocking on the door. She came to open the broken wooden door and found arge and tall figure standing outside. The nights moon was full and its shine was cast on his body, glittering brightly against his chiseled features, making Ye Xiaoxians heart throb. So handsome! In these times and in this kind of remote vige, how rare to find a man with such looks. Come in. As usual, she had a faint smile upon her lips. Iming to fetch something, said Baoshan. Fetching something? Youre not sleeping here? asked Ye Xiaoxian, smiling, with a somewhat teasing tone. Xiao Baoshan turned around and began to stare at Ye Xiaoxian motionlessly. His staring made Ye Xiaoxian begin to feel rather awkward. He must feel that I am so loose. How could an ancient woman behave like this? If a husband wants to sleep with you, you will sleep with him, but if he doesnt, you cantin. Xiao Baoshan didnt add anything, just put away the clothes on the bamboo stick and walked in front of Ye Xiaoxian. I...I am going to sleep in Bao Fengs room Okay! replied by Ye Xiaoxian swiftly. Since he didnt want to sleep with her, it was no good for her forcing him to stay. Xiao Baoshan was about to walk away when Ye Xiaoxian suddenly called him back, Wait a second! He turned around and waited for her to speak. Did you have someone that you liked before? she asked calmly. He didnt expect her to ask this and he replied, No, I didnt. Then why are you unwilling to marry me? You are sister-in... The words were on the tip of his tongue but he couldnt speak it aloud. One night before, he still called her sister-inw and he suddenly had to change how he addressed her. He wasnt quite used to it. Fine, off you go, said Ye Xiaoxian inly. Then she took out a half-braided shoe sole, pretending to be busy in making shoes. Such stereotypes from ancient peasant men were not easy to change unless he was really into her, so into her that he could abandon all stereotypes for her. Haste makes waste, thought Ye Xiaoxian. When Xiao Baoshan got out of the door, without rhyme or reason, he couldnt help turning around to have another look at her. She was lowering her head and her face looked dainty with a straight-edged nose. She possessed somehow a different charm. He dared not take another look, so hurriedly went out and closed the door for her. Ye Xiaoxian didnt know how to braid a shoe sole at all. Although she bore the original bodys memory, she couldnt imitate such manual work. Then she simply extinguished themp and went to bed. Chapter 9 - What’s the Point of Chopping Firewood?

Chapter 9: Whats the Point of Chopping Firewood?

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Dawn. Ye Xiaoxian carried tools such as a wood knife, shoulder pole and grass rope to go to the mountain with Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng to cut wood. In order to go to the mountain they needed to pass by arge banyan tree at the entrance of the vige. At that moment some vigers sitting under the big banyan tree were holding big bowls, drinking porridge and chatting. When they saw Ye Xiaoxianing, those vigers began whispering to one another. You heard about it? Li Hongmei really married her elder daughter-inw to her second son, tsk, how brazen she is! Its said that old Mr. Xiao is going to live apart from them. Last night, he went to the Vige Chief to write a statement and sign it. What is on the statement? That row of houses made of earth still belongs to them, plus a piece of earth slope on the mountain and a half mu (a unit of area, about 666 square meters) ofnd in the field. In addition, they pay 500 copper coins a month as a filial piety, but who knows if they can hand in that amount of money, just judging from the looks of their family. ... All the vigers in Daliang Vige are leather-lunged so even if they lowered their voice, they were still heard by Ye Xiaoxian and the other two. Ye Xiaoxian just pretended not to hear anything. She didnt bother to deal with them. Xiao Baofeng was a boy and he didnt care about such things either. Only Xiao Baozhu was very sensitive, and after she heard those talks she suddenly blushed. Still, she didnt say anything since now Little Ye had already be a member of their family, and if there was someone to me, it must be their reckless ma. ... On the mountain, Ye Xiaoxian and the other two were chopping firewood together. She came from modern times. Although she worked hard as a cook, it couldntpare with the hard work of cutting firewood. Farmers were people who bowed to the loess with their back towards the sky. She had to tie the firewood up into bundles after cutting. Besides, she was not that strong; after she chopped a bundle, she was drenched in sweat and her clothes were soaked. When she couldnt even cut down a sapling, she then suddenly threw the axe aside angrily and sat down at the buddle of firewood, puffing. Baozhu and Baoshan didnt know why Ye Xiaoxian suddenly sulked. Baozhu hurriedly came to her and asked, Little...sister-inw, what happened to you? Bao feng stopped too, wiped his forehead and looked at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian then asked Baozhu, Baozhu, whats the meaning of chopping firewood? To burn it, said Baozhu. Since now we live apart and we dont have to burn so much firewood, we can sell the rest. How much money will you make by selling them? asked Ye Xiaoxian again. Um...one jin (a unit of weight, half kilogram) of firewood is worth half a copper coin. We can make ten copper coins by selling twenty jin, said Baozhu excitedly. All the firewood burned in the Xiao family before were chopped by Bao Feng and her, and they hadnt sold any before. She was pretty excited about making money, even only ten copper coins. Ye Xiaoxian looked at the shoes on Baozhus feet and said in disdain, Ten copper coins are not enough to buy a pair of cloth shoes, are they? When she was a cook, she could make at least 600 yuan a day, and with 600 yuan she could buy a hundred pairs of cloth shoes. Nah-ah. Its too slow to make money by this. Hearing what Ye Xiaoxian said, Baozhu suddenly felt displeased. If you stop chopping, we cant even make one coin, can we? Ye Xiaoxian said, You two continue and Ill take a walk around. What...what are you doing? Baozhu was shouting behind her while Ye Xiaoxian had already ducked into another mountain road. Bao Zhu shouted angrily, She indeed bes azy wife after getting married! She was willing to do any work in the past and now she even threw the axe away. Who suggested that we live apartst night? Baofeng said, As shes now our formal sister-inw, wed better just leave her alone and continue to chop our firewood, or we will be too broke to even cook a meal. Chapter 10 - Making Some Goodies

Chapter 10: Making Some Goodies

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Ye Xiaoxian swiftly ducked into another narrow road. This mountain behind Daliang Vige was called Daping. Vigers would usually chop firewood up there during the day and wouldnt dare to stay in the mountain when it went dark, since some wild beasts may be wandering around. There were both tall trees and low shrubs in the mountain. Although the day was illuminated by the sun, being in the mountain she felt cool. In Ye Xiaoxians view, this kind of untapped mountain forest was full of treasures. It was not wrong to rely on the mountain and make use of it when you lived nearby. As expected, she only took a short walk but found a wide sheet of Chinese mesona. Chinese mesona is a unique food ingredient in the South. The herb itself contains polysharide, which has the functions of relieving high temperatures, eliminating dampness, cooling the blood and detoxification. The cold noodle snack made with such herb can be used to quench thirst in summer. ording to the original bodys memory, Ye Xiaoxian knew that tens of li (a unit of length, half kilometers) further away from Daliang was Qinghe County. There were cold noodles sold in Qinghe but they tasted bitter and the sellers could by no means make the kind of cold noodles of modern times, which are smooth and tender. Those could only be used to quench thirst. Ye Xiaoxian then picked up a huge bundle of the herb. Looking around again, she found that there were many mushrooms and wood ear in the mountain. Some people in Daliang Vige were poisoned by mushrooms a few years ago, so the vigers didnt dare pick any on the mountain, as they werent sure which ones were poisonous and which ones were not. But Ye Xiaoxian knew, and so soon she had picked a lot of Chanterelle and shiitake mushrooms. Later, she found that there were many legendary tofu nts in the mountain. She became excited again. Legendary tofu was also a type of green weed. It could be made into green tofu. Its taste was like konjac silky and chewy. In modern times, one could only enjoy this dish in some exclusive restaurants ... Ah, little Ye, what did you bring? Li Hongmei saw that Ye Xiaoxian had not chopped any firewood but only carried some weeds and wild fungi, and she asked curiously. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Ma, you know, we can just wash the mushrooms clean and stir-fry them. As for the rest, you will seeter. Then Ye Xiaoxian took the legendary tofu and Chinese mesona to wash in the river. At that moment Li Hongmei felt that Ye Xiaoxian looked pretty mysterious, so she turned her gaze to Baozhu right away. Baozhu put down her chopped firewood and said sulkily, Who knows what shes got up her sleeve? She didnt chop wood in the mountain but instead fiddled around with those things. Ma, have you cooked anything yet? Im starving. Yes, I did. I did... Li Hongmei smiled awkwardly. However, when Baozhu went to the kitchen and lifted the lid on the wok, she suddenly felt so upset. Ma, why greens and sweet potato soup again? Li Hongmeis mouth twitched and said bitterly, Didnt we just live apart from your grandpa, your elder and third uncle? Were only allocated 10 jin of rice. I cooked some rice for breakfast and we wont have the crops till the harvest season in autumn. Our life is really...hard. Baozhu felt a sudden bitterness in her heart and her ambition of living apartst night had half gone all of a sudden. Before they lived apart, although they were treated unfairly, they still could have some decent food. Now that they lived apart, their life became harder than ever. She couldnt help touching her hungry belly. She couldnt feel full if there was no meat in the dish. As Baozhu was thinking, Ye Xiaoxian finished washing the herbs. Once Ye Xiaoxian came back, she shouted happily, Ma, Baozhu, Ill make some goodies for this evening! Baozhu looked at the herbs in Ye Xiaoxians hand and mumbled, Arent they just some wild weeds? Who knows if theyre poisonous or not! Ye Xiaoxian took out the only two wooden basins in their home, filled them with water and added in the legendary tofu and Chinese mesona, rubbing them hard with her hands as well as stirring the juice constantly. Chapter 11 - Pig’s Offal

Chapter 11: Pigs Offal

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Ma, we still have some sticky rice powder left over from the Spring Festival, which was prepared for making tang yuan (boiled rice dumpling; stuffed dumpling made partly or wholly of glutinous rice flour served in soup), right? Can you take some out for me? asked Ye Xiaoxian again. Li Hongmei felt a little unwilling. The sticky rice powder is dear. Are you going to cook it with those wild herbs? Ma, no. Just pass me some. I only need a pinch. I cant use too much either. Ye Xiaoxian was thinking to try it out first. If she seeded, she would make more. Though Li Hongmei was not particrly up to it, she still went to fetch some. Baozhu murmured again beside her, Ma, youre really listening to everything she says? Li Hongmei wasnt willing to but she felt that Ye Xiaoxian had somehow changed into another person with a powerful aura, and she couldnt help but do as Little Ye said. Ye Xiaoxians Chinese mesona and legendary tofu herb had been rubbed and squeezed. She had filtered the leaves and left the green juice in the basin. She then made the sticky rice powder into rice paste and stirred it in with the green juice. Miraculously within a quarter of an hour, these two basins of green juice had be solid. Ye Xiaoxian became cheerful C she had seeded! She firstly carried the legendary tofu and ced it somewhere beside the stove and then asked Baozhu to make a fire. The stove had also been rigged up temporarily. After having moved apart out of the big family, they were not allowed to use the kitchen that belonged to Old Mr. Xiao. Luckily there was a stove left in this row of houses from the past, so now they could make use of it. Baozhu reluctantly made a fire and she was just going to see what on earth was up Ye Xiaoxians sleeve. When Baozhu had lit the fire and then raised her head, she found that the green thing in the basin had been cut into cubes by Ye Xiaoxian. The wok had already been heated and Ye Xiaoxian poured a little oil in it, putting the green tofu into the wok and, after a few moments of stir-frying, the fragrance of the green tofu was released. They looked more inviting than those herbal soups. Baozhu then gulped.... While Ye Xiaoxian was cooking, she heard a coarse voice echoing outside. Ma, Im back! Baoshan, youe back. Huh, whats this? Pigs offal. Someone gave it to me, said Xiao Baoshan. Baozhu heard that Baoshan hade with something, she ran outside excitedly but once she nced at the pigs guts, livers and hearts in Xiao Baoshans hands, she became disappointed. Those were the most disgusting things which smelt like manure. None of the vigers ate that stuff when they ughtered pigs, unless they were starving. Ye Xiaoxian also came out from the kitchen. She firstly saw the tall and broad Xiao Baoshan, because of whom the humble vige house had developed an old picturesque charm. Let me handle these, said Ye Xiaoxian. She then came to take the pigs offal from Xiao Baoshans hands. Xiao Baoshan hesitated and did not hand the stuff to Ye Xiaoxian right away as he was afraid it might stain her. But Ye Xiaoxian insisted that she cook it herself. Between the pushing and shoving, the bodies of the two people inevitably touched each other. Ye Xiaoxian felt that his body was like a cloud of fire. As they had physical contact, Xiao Baoshan suddenly let go, and Ye Xiaoxian grabbed the pigs offal in her hand. Youre afraid of me so? asked by Ye Xiaoxian with her head raised. Xiao Baoshan didnt answer, looking somewhat uneasy. Rash fellow! taunted Ye Xiaoxian, meanwhile feeling that Xiao Baoshan was really cute. She just remembered that the legendary tofu was in the wok. She suddenly shoved the pigs offal back to Xiao Baoshans hands again. Wash it up for me and Ill cook itter! Chapter 12 - How Could You Eat Nice Food Alone Without Sharing?

Chapter 12: How Could You Eat Nice Food Alone Without Sharing?

Trantor: Flying Lines Profread by ire.KK The smell of meat soon came from the shabby kitchen. The reason why people in the vige did not eat the pigs offal was probably that they didnt want to use up much oil. Ye Xiaoxian also only put a few drops of vegetable oil in. She asked Baozhu to burn the minimum amount of firewood in the oven, just enough to bake the iron wok. Then she ced the pigs offal into the wok and fried it slowly, just like making guokui (a crispy pancake). Baozhu smelled the stronger and stronger fragrance emanating from the wok. She could not help her mouth watering and from time to time she walked out to check if it was ready. She had stoppedining already but only asked Ye Xiaoxian, How long will it be before its ready to eat? Not long. Just when the two sides are fried crispy, said Ye Xiaoxian smilingly. Sister-inw, how do you know this way of cooking it? asked Baozhu. I...I had a dream in which an old immortal told me this method. Ye Xiaoxian joked. She didnt expect that Baozhu would take it seriously and said sulkily, Why did no old immortal visit my dream and tell me this? Ye Xiaoxian: ... When the pigs offal was all done, Ye Xiaoxian then asked the whole family to have dinner together. A te of legendary tofu, a huge te of pigs offal, a bowl of wild mushrooms and,st but not least, the herbal soup cooked by Li Hongmei. The whole household enjoyed their dinner very much. Baozhu and Baofeng couldnt possibly stop eating and constantly said at the same time, Yum, yum! Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Its a shame that we arecking rice. Itd be perfect if we had two bowls of rice to be served. ... The smell of meat made next doors Mrs. Xiao nee Wang walk out to have a look as well. The maiden name of Mrs. Xiao ne Wang, was Wang Peony. Her name did not really match her figure since she was born dark-rough-skinned and with arge figure. When she smelled the meat from next door, she couldnt help but go to check what was going on. The light was dim in the earth house, so when Wang Peony saw that there was some pigs offal left, which was fried to a golden crisp, she thought it must be meat. She then asked, s, you have some goodies today, eh? Li Hongmei said proudly, Yes, Baoshan brought it from the town. Only the other two sons of old Mr. Xiao usually brought things back home and it was the first time that this happened to Li Hongmeis household, so it was no wonder that she was so happy. Wang Peony saw that all of them had greasy lips from enjoying the food and she began to feel jealous. She then shouted at the top of her lungs, I wondered why you were in such a hurry to live apart. Turns out you got something good and no longer wanted to share it with us the poor rtives! Wang Peonys shouting brought old Mr. Xiao and Mrs. Xiao ne Chen, out as well. Whats this something good? asked old Mr. Xiao leaning on walking stick. Pa, the Hongmeis are eating something nice, something brought by Baoshan from the town; a huge bowl of pork fried golden-crispy, s, no wonder they were in a rush to live apart. They just want to eat these goodies alone. The maiden name of Mrs. Xiao ne Chen, is Chen Ju. She was surprised at first and then sneered. The Hongmeis were always taking advantage of us before Baoshan came home. As soon as Baoshan returned, they couldnt wait to live apart. It turns out that theyre trying to hide away their fancy food without sharing it with us. ... Wang Peony and Chen Ju were acting like a duo, plus a furious old Mr. Xiao was about to let out his anger. At that moment, Li Hongmei suddenly shouted in a high-pitched voice. Elder Sister-In-Law, was the dog meat you brought from the town the day before yesterday tasty? Wang Peony was stunned and started to feign ignorance, Dog meat? What do you mean? Li Hongmei pointed to the gate of the yard. Dont act dumb, Elder Sister-inw. Its three jin of dog meat. You ate it secretly at night. The dog bone was buried under the second plum tree at the gate of the yard. Pa, if you dont believe me, you can go and look yourself. I heard that dog meat was the best tonic. It benefits a mans kidneys, a womans waist, and an elders legs and feet. They didnt even leave a dog hair for you. Pa, if you dont believe me, you can dig it up. Hearing this, everybodys eyes were aiming at Wang Peony like gun barrels. Chapter 13 - This is Pig’s Dung

Chapter 13: This is Pigs Dung

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Wang Mudan (i.e. Peony) blushed and asked, You, you were sneakily watching us eat meat in the middle of the night? Well, now you admit that you were eating dog meat, dont you? said Li Hongmei angrily. Humph, I was also fumbling down to your ce with the smell of the meat. At the time I didnt expose this since I didnt want to embarrass you. But look at you! We were rarely eating anything good while youd rather shout it out for the whole vige to hear! Chen Ju was smiling to herself. Chen Ju looked to be in a good rtionship with Wang Mudan but she was actually hoping to see them make a scene like this. But Chen Jus pleasure from others misfortune did notst, since Li Hongmei suddenly pointed to Chen Ju and said, So did my third sister-inw. Last night, third brother came back from the town with some osmanthus cakes, right? Wrapped in oil paper which you brought back. The oil paper is still in the backyard! Then Li Hongmei asked Chen Jus five-year-old daughter Xiao Baoxue, Baoxue, tell auntie. Was the cake sweet at all? Chen Ju was trying to cover her hands over her daughters mouth but it was toote and Baoxue cried excitedly, Very sweet! Sister-inw, you... Chen Ju had been helping Wang Mudan to attack Li Hongmei. Now Li Hongmei suddenly exposed her secret, which made her flush with anger. Old Mr. Xiao pounded his walking stick on the ground. You selfish and mean women. You dare...dare... But Wang Mudan had recovered. In order not to let old Mr. Xiao scold her, she once again aimed her fire at Li Hongmei. So what if we were really hiding something to eat? We somehow still know to eat secretly. How about you? You eat openly, and we have caught you. Arent you too cocky? What am I cocky about? I was eating pigs offal, some garbage that you would haveined about if I cooked for you! Why should we not eat it openly? answered Li Hongmei, standing akimbo. Pigs offal? You think Im blind or what. Youve got meat-roasted pork! said Wang Mudan. Chen Ju also followed. Pigs offal smells like shit but yours clearly has a meaty smell. You not only think we are blind, but treat us like we have stuffy nose. You dont believe me, do you? If you dont believe me, Ill find evidence for you! Li Hongmei was not afraid of them. She simply picked up a stick and picked out some pig manure from the yard when cleaning up the pigs offal. Sister-inw, is it pigs dung or not? Third Sister-inw,e and have a look too. Isnt it pigs shit? Li Hongmei approached Wang Mudan and Chen Ju with a stick stained with excrement. Wang Mudan and Chen Ju both were worried about being touched by it, so they then withdrew. Li Hongmei was about to hold the stick in front of old Mr. Xiao and let him smell it, when Xiao Baoshan came out and stopped her. Ma, why arent you going back to the room?! Xiao Baoshan took the leftover pigs offal and went to old Mr. Xiao and said respectfully, Grandpa, this is indeed pigs offal, but its not been cooked the same way. You can taste it. The light outside the yard was good. One could see clearly that what was on the te were pigs guts. Old Mr. Xiao wasnt going to eat any but Xiao Baoshan was standing still in front of him like a tree with a forceful aura, so he had no option but put one piece in his mouth. It was actually tasty and there was no funny smell to it. Old Mr. Xiao was going to eat another piece, so he asked, Who made this? It was... Xiao Baoshan looked at Ye Xiaoxian, wondering how he should address her. Ye Xiaoxian curved her lips and was only wanting to see if Xiao Baoshan would address her as my wife or my young bride or something simr. Little Ye made them. Xiao Baoshen didnt address her with any title but just called her by her pet name. I didnt know that you could cook something nice like this. Before you lived apart, you didnt cook anything nice but now you are really capable! Old Mr. Xiao ate while scolding Ye Xiaoxian. After he finished scolding Ye Xiaoxian, he began to scold Wang Mudan and Chen Ju. You two, get the hell out of the Xiao Family next time if you hide away food again! How dare you! Wang Mudan and Chen Ju felt extremely wronged. Didnt your sons bring those things back home? Why should you only scold your daughters-inw instead of your own sons? Chapter 14 - Husband and Wife Are of One Mind.

Chapter 14: Husband and Wife Are of One Mind.

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK At night, Ye Xiaoxian waited until everyone was done then let Li Hongmei call the other brothers over there to eat cold jelly. The oilmp was burning in the room. In the dim light, Ye Xiaoxian divided the cold jelly into five portions and let them taste it. Sister-inw, the cold jelly was delicious; its actually sweet. Baofeng took the first bite and couldnt help praising her. Baozhu then ate a spoonful, feeling that it was slippery. The smell of grass with a trace of sweetness was the taste of mesona herb. She couldnt help praising Ye Xiaoxian. So nice, sister, was this what the old immortal taught you to do? Yes, Ye Xiaoxian answered, and then looked at Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan was already tasting it. Although he ate rudely, he was full of masculinity. When the corners of his mouth moved, his angr face was exposed, which was very sexy. After taking two sips, he looked at Ye Xiaoxian and said lightly, This is the best cold jelly I have ever had. Li Hongmei had also eaten half a bowl and she also said, Yes, this was also the best cold jelly Ive ever had. Little Ye, how did you make it so delicious? Ive eaten cold jelly in town before and it was all bitter. Baozhu helped Ye Xiaoxian respond. There was an old immortal to help and, naturally, its delicious. Seeing that everyone felt it was so delicious, Ye Xiaoxian began to talk on the subject. Since you all feel that its delicious, why dont we sell cold jelly in the county? Erm...Little Ye, do you want to do business in the county? Li Hongmei asked. Others also looked at her in surprise, especially Baozhu, who was so surprised that she couldnt close her mouth. Although the women in Da Liang Vige worked a lot, they were not only able to go and work in the town, but also brought up their kids. However, few women had left to do business. Ma, I have calcted that a bowl of cold jelly can be sold for two copper coins in the town. If we sell a hundred bowls a day, we can get two hundred pennies. After deducting the costs, we can make one hundred and eighty pennies. This is faster than cutting wood to make money. When talking about the business, Ye Xiaoxian said, The cost of selling cold jelly is not high. In the early stage we only need to put in a few spoons, sugar water, a few buckets, and pick it up to sell when the cold jelly is ready. Isnt Baoshan going to work in the county every day? He can take a trip for us, Ma and I will take another trip, and we will not be tired. Li Hongmei, Baozhu and Baofeng still watched her dully. It sounded great, but they didnt understand it. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Well, just listen to me. I am confident that our cold jelly could be sold for money. Li Hongmei and the others were still dazed, but Xiao Baoshan understood what she said. Unexpectedly, he was the first to agree. Its rare that Little Ye has such guts. I thought it should be supported. Tomorrow I will be able to get my sry for this month. I could buy some spoons for Little Ye. But Baoshan... Li Hongmei couldnt help worrying. Maybe it is not appropriate for women...to go out and show themselves? Ma, there were many women in the city who came out to do business. So long as they made money by working, there is nothing wrong with it. Xiao Baoshan said with certainty. Under the light, Ye Xiaoxian looked at Xiao Baoshan, thinking that Xiao Baoshan had advanced in his thinking on such matters. How could he be so pedantic in marriage? Li Hongmei saw that since Xiao Baoshan agreed, how could she disagree, so she said excitedly, Indeed you as husband and wife have shared one mind; within only one night, you guys... Ye Xiaoxian nudged Li Hongmei under the table, motioning to her to say no more. Xiao Baoshan also stopped her. Ma, its gettingte; everyone should hurry back to the room. Li Hongmei ignored this and asked, Baoshan, werent you going back to the room to sleep with Little Ye? Xiao Baoshans face turned red. He nced at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian wasnt shy. She just stared straight at him and waited for his response. Seeing this, Xiao Baoshan quickly looked away, then stood up and said, Ma, Im still sleeping with Baofeng. You should rest early. Baoshan, you... Li Hongmei still tried to stop Xiao Baoshan, but she failed. Baoshan was going too...s, I will teach him a lesson tomorrow when I have time. Li Hongmei looked at Ye Xiaoxian with pity. Ye Xiaoxian didnt care. They hadnt reached such a level of intimacy and haste made waste. Chapter 15 - Rash Guy

Chapter 15: Rash Guy

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Ye Xiaoxian had been highly effective with what she had said. The next day she went up the mountain to pick enough mesona herb, and Xiao Baoshan also bought the bowls, spoons, brown sugar, and buckets. In the morning of the third day, Ye Xiaoxian got up before dawn, rubbing the herbs and making the rice milk. Then she put the cold jelly into two buckets. In addition to this, she also prepared two empty buckets for the bowls and spoons. There was also a river in the countryside. After arriving there, she could fill a bucket of water for washing the dishes. Xiao Baoshan was going to the town that day, and he picked up the cold jelly without saying a word. Then Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei quickly picked up the empty bucket and went to keep up. ... It was a long way to the town. Ye Xiaoxian was originally worried that Xiao Baoshan could not lift them, butter she found that Xiao Baoshan had no difficulty in picking up the two buckets of cold jelly. After arriving in the town he then chose a ce for Ye Xiaoxian. It was a market square and very lively with many people around. Xiao Baoshan put down his load, then took the empty bucket from Ye Xiaoxians shoulder, and said in a deep voice, I will help you fill two buckets of water. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help feeling warm and then stared straight at him again. Xiao Baoshan felt ufortable, and hurried away with an empty bucket. Fool! Ye Xiaoxian muttered behind his back. Although speaking softly, Li Hongmei heard this and scolded, Wasnt he a fool? He sure is a rash guy! Ye Xiaoxian: ... ... Qinghe was a small county in the south and also located on the border. Many foreign caravans would pass through here and, so long as the weather was good, it was a particrly lively ce. Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei had just set up the stall when someone came and asked, Sister, what are you selling? Cold jelly, which can cool you down and quench your thirst. Would you like a bowl? Li Hongmei asked. The man took a look at the cold jelly in the bucket and said, It looks nice, but I just had breakfast and I couldnt eat anything more. Li Hongmei: ... Then a few more people came to ask about it, but while they all asked but they didnt buy. There were also some whoughed at them because they were both women. However, in broad daylight, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei werent easily bullied. Those people left without taking advantage of them. A few minutester, Xiao Baoshan picked back up the water. When the people nearby saw that Bao Baoshan wasrge and imposing, they were even more afraid toe and provoke the two women. But Xiao Baoshan also had things to do, so he left after a while. As the sun rose, Li Hongmei was a little flustered by it and she couldnt help asking Ye Xiaoxian, Little ye, could we not sell this cold jelly? Its been half an hour and we havent sold a single bowl yet. Ma, dont be discouraged so easily, its the first time wevee here to set up a stall. People nearby are unfamiliar with us. We wont sell it so soon, just wait until it gets a little warmer. Although she wasforting Li Hongmei, she in fact had no idea and was also worried about the cold jelly. But she had alreadye and even if no one bought any, they could only wait here. Fortunately, as the sun gradually rose and the weather became hotter, at noon they finally got their first customer, a fat shopkeeper who sold rouge nearby. Sister, could I have a bowl of cold jelly? said the fat shopkeeper. Ye Xiaoxian quickly took the spoon and gave him a bowl. After receiving the cold jelly, the fat shopkeeperined. Now its too hot, cold jelly is the most useful food for relieving heat. I usually eat in the stall in front of the bridge. Today I saw you were here and I was toozy to go there. I didnt know if your cold jelly was as good as his. If not, I wouldnte and buy any. Ye Xiaoxianughed. Shopkeeper, whether it is delicious or not, why dont you just have a taste? Im afraid that you cant have enough once you taste it. Chapter 16 - They’ve Done Business!

Chapter 16: Theyve Done Business!

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK The fat shopkeeper tentatively picked up a piece of cold jelly with a spoon and put it in his mouth. However, at that moment his face suddenly changed. As if the dark clouds were blown away at once, revealing the warm sunshine, the fat shopkeeper took two more sips, andter he simply lifted the bowl and drank it with one sip. Sister, what is your cold jelly made of? Why is it so delicious? The fat shopkeeper asked, smacking his lips. Li Hongmei said proudly, This was not made by me; it was my daughter-inw who did it. She makes everything very delicious. What with? With talent! Ye Xiaoxian said, Shopkeeper, if you think its delicious, you could have another bowl. Only two pennies a bowl, and two bowls for four pennies. Hurry up, another bowl. The fat shopkeeper quickly passed the empty bowl to Ye Xiaoxian. There were many stalls near Ye Xiaoxian. When everyone saw the fat shopkeeper eating two bowls of cold jelly, they came over and asked. How about the cold jelly? How did itpare to that in front of the bridge? Shopkeeper Qiao, you have already drunk two bowls, could it be that you want more? ... The fat shopkeeper couldnt help butugh. What I say doesnt matter, you have toe and try it yourself. There is no shortage of crabs in the world, but itscking in someone who dares to try them first. After the fat shopkeeper had tried it first, the people around the stall quickly asked Ye Xiaoxian to give them a bowl of the cold jelly. Some of the people sold cloth shoes, some sold rain gear and some were fortune tellers... Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian were suddenly busy. They had to serve cold jelly, collect money and wash dishes. People liked to join in the fun. At first no one was buying it, so nobody else came to buy it. Now that there were more people buying it, everyone else followed suit. In addition, Ye Xiaoxians cold jelly was really delicious. Each bowl was full of sugar. The cold jelly itself was sweet and after adding sugar it tasted even sweeter. Some people were like the fat shopkeeper, they ate one bowl after another. By midday there was only half of her cold jelly left. ... By the afternoon, Ye Xiaoxians stall was again deserted. This was the hottest part of the day when even cats and dogs slouched in the corners. There were no pedestrians on the street and the stall keepers hid in the shade of trees. Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei also covered up the remaining cold jelly and carried it under a tree. Even in the shade it was really hot. Ye Xiaoxian felt that her clothes were soaked. She bought two pancakes at a nearby stall and enjoyed the cool with Li Hongmei while eating the pancakes in the trees shade. When she was thirsty, she drank cold jelly to relieve the heat. After 2pm the sun had gone west and the street was full of people again. The stall keepers once again set up their stalls. Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei also returned to selling their cold jelly. Little ye, look, Baoshan is here too. Li Hongmei pointed excitedly to not far away. Ye Xiaoxian also saw him. At the corner of the street the tall Xiao Baoshan walked down the middle of the road and there were a few men beside him. They came over to Ye Xiaoxian, talking andughing. Xiao Baoshan, who wasughing among the crowd, stood out. Ye Xiaoxian looked at him and then couldnt help but blush. Baoshan, have you finished your work over there? Li Hongmei Asked. Its time to rest. I brought a few brothers here to eat a bowl of cold jelly. Xiao Baoshan had alreadye over to Ye Xiaoxian, and he exhorted her, Be sure to prepare enough bowls for everyone. Ye Xiaoxian greeted quickly. But after her initial enthusiasm, she thought, Would these people that Baoshan brought here jump the bill? When she had been a chef before, she had seen a lot of men who pretended to be wealthy. They were so poor but still treated others to meals. Wouldnt Xiao Baoshan do the same? But Ye Xiaoxian then thought to herself, Whats the big deal? Its only several bowls of cold jelly and these are Baoshans colleagues. If they get along well, Baoshans career will go more smoothly. Chapter 17 - Is This the Young Bride?

Chapter 17: Is This the Young Bride?

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK This is for you, Baoshan. After all the other men had been served, Ye Xiaoxian gave Xiao Baoshan a bowl of cold jelly as well. Thank you, said Xiao Baoshan politely. Some asked Xiaobaoshan, Baoshan, who are these two? Mother and young sister? And the other teased him, She doesnt look like his sister. Is this Baoshans young bride? Such a sweet bride. ... Xiao Baoshan didnt reply and others just took it as yes. Baoshen, when did you get married? Why didnt you invite us to your wedding ceremony? Daliang vige is not that far. You just need to give us a shout and well surly go and check, said others. Xiao Baoshan, however, said seriously, Everyone, hurry up and drink your cold jelly. We still have work to do! Seeing Xiao Baoshan being serious, they stopped joking and handed the empty bowls to Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian after they finished. Surprisingly, all of them paid for it politely and didnt forget to praise the cold jelly, saying that they woulde the next day to buy it again. In the afternoon, the street was packed and their business went better again. They sold all the cold jelly before the sun set. Li Hongmei was so excited and she had all the money in a big bag held in her hand, making a pleasant nking noise. Little Ye, your business idea is brilliant. If our business goes smoothly like this everyday, well be better-off in the near future, wont we? Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Upon my word, well do much better day by day. Ma, lets buy some food first. Arent we in short of rice already? Lets buy thirty jin of rice and some dried fish as well so we can have a nice dinner. Yeah! Li Hongmei consented right away, Baozhu and Baofeng will be awfully happy when we go back. They crave for dried fish the most. Lets hurry up then, and our brown sugar is running out as well. We have to buy more and well make two more buckets of cold jelly tomorrow. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. ... Ma, sister-inw, you are back? Is it that you didnt sell any cold jelly? Baozhu had been stayed at the gate of their house for an hour. Seeing that they came home with heavy buckets, Baozhu thought that the cold jelly didnt get sold. Li Hongmei shushed her and whispered, Go inside first. On the other side of the brick and tile house, Wang Mudan saw that they hade back with heavy buckets. Wang Mudan couldnt help spitting on the ground. Bah! Those things daydream all day and want to do business to make a fortune. Dream the hell on! Sooner orter, they will starve to death. Dont ask to join us for dinner again by then. Our family wont support these idle people! Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei carried the bucket inside of the house, and then lifted the wooden board lid to let Baozhu and Baofeng see what was inside. When Baozhu and Baofeng saw the stuff inside, their jaws were nearly popping out. Ma, this is...rice! Baozhu covered her mouth to control herself not to cry. Thirty jin of rice was sufficient for their family to eat for a month. Baofeng lowered his voice as well. And dried fish! And brown sugar...and peanut oil! asked baozhu, So, youve sold out all the cold jelly? How would we buy dried fish if we didnt sell out the cold jelly? Li Hongmei smiled and then she asked Baozhu to make a fire and get ready to cook dinner. Li Hongmeis original intention was to let Baozhu and Baofeng cook. After all, she and Ye Xiaoxian had been busy in the town for a day, and they were nearly exhausted just by taking the burden back. But Ye Xiaoxian said, Its okay that Baozhu just make a fire and cook the rice. Ill cook the dishes. Ma, go and take a rest. Xiaoxian, dont you want to take a rest for a while? Im not tired. Besides, Im good at cooking. Im sure I can make the dried fish delicious. Ye Xiaoxian said with a smile, and then went back to work. Chapter 18 - You Are Inquiring About Baoshan?

Chapter 18: You Are Inquiring About Baoshan?

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Xiao Baoshan came back soon. This time, he brought some pig offal back again. He said that one of his peers killed pigs at home. The extra pig offal can be sold to him cheaply. He was still thinking about the vour of it since he ate the pig offal Ye Xiaoxian cooked yesterday so he bought more today. Once Ye Xiaoxian saw the pig offal, she came over, took and cleaned it. Sister-inw, are you going to fry the pig offal again like you didst night? Xiao Baofeng came over and sat on his heels beside Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baofeng was only eight but he looked very smart and his features were quite simr to Xiao Baoshan. He must be a handsome guy when he grew up. Not really, said Ye Xiaoxian smilingly, How can we stick to the same vour all day long? I make saut pig offal with pickled cabbage. Baofeng, you go to the next door and ask auntie Zhao if they have any pickled cabbage. If they have some, we can exchange them with some of little dried fish. Baofeng ran out hurriedly and excitedly and came back in a minute. He went back with a handful pickled cabbage and then he started to help Ye Xiaoxian to cook dinner. Ye Xiaoxian suddenly felt pity for Xiao Baofeng. Baofeng, youre eight years old, arent you? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Yes, I am! answered Baofeng while washing the pickled cabbage. Dont you want to go to private school? I do, but Ma said that we dont have money so I have to wait to go to private school, said Xiao Baofeng with a sense of loss. What about your second brother? Did he ever go to private school? Well... Xiao Baofeng thought about it carefully and then shook his head, I dont know. Ma didnt mention it. I only know that my second brother left home a long time ago and just came back recently. Ye Xiaoxian was still trying to say something and she didnt notice that Li Hongmei came cover and chuckled. Little Ye, are you inquiring about Baoshan? Why dont you ask me? Ma... Ye Xiaoxian blushed, like being caught on the spot of doing sneaky things. Ha-ha-ha, Baoshan went to a private school, but only for two years. He knows how to read and thats all. Later, the vige forced young men to join the army and your elder brother...s, I dont want to mention him. Baoshan was the only man in our family who could go. I hadnt heard from Baoshan for so many years. I thought he was gone. Now hes back. Its so nice... Tears shined in Li Hongmeis eyes while she was telling the story. Ye Xiaoxian felt warm in her heart. In her previous life, she came from a single-parent family. She had hardly experienced the warmth of the family. She had never cared about anyone or being cared by anyone. Now she had a new family. This feeling was really good. ... Tonight, there were three dishes; one was sauted pig offal with pickles, the second was sauted fish with wild vegetables. In addition, ye Xiaoxian also cooked a soup with pig liver and wild vegetables. Usually It was clearly the most disliked food among others, but because it was made by Ye Xiaoxian, the soup tasted delicious. Before the meal, Xiao Baoshan asked Xiao Baofeng to bring half a bowl of sauted pig intestine with pickles to old Mr. Xiao, so that he would not listen to the other two households nderous talks and scolded Li Hongmei and her family again by saying the third household never cooked good food for him. After that, the family gathered around the crude table and had their dinner contentedly. Although it seemed simple andmon, everyones face was beaming with happiness. Ye Xiaoxian felt happy when she saw others have their food happily, As a chef, the happiest thing is to make the diners have a great time to enjoy the food she made. When they had almost done their dinner, Ye Xiaoxian started to talk with everyone about her thoughts. Ma, Baoshan, Id like to talk about the matter about Baofeng. Chapter 19 - Baofeng Went To Private School

Chapter 19: Baofeng Went To Private School

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Baofeng? Whats the matter with him? Li Hongmei asked while drinking her soup. The three siblings didnt know what Ye Xiaoxian tried to talk about but looked at her in a daze. Baofeng is now eight years old and its the time for other boys to go to private school, so Im thinking to send Baofeng to school. Boys can only know better by being educated in school so theyll achieve much more in the future. Everyone one began to look at her surprisingly. Li Hongmei was the first getting back to her senses and she said to Ye Xiaoxian immediately, But I heard that it costs two taels of silver for a year to go to school. How can we get the money? Xiao Baozhu also said, Yea, if Baofeng goes to private school, am I the only one who will do the firewood-cutting work? Id rather not to go up to the mountain by myself. Xiao Baofeng was young though, he was considerate. Sister-inw, Im okay not to go to private school. We are very poor now...I, I dont want to add more burden to our family. Xiao Baoshan was surprised as well but it was for the matter of Baofeng going to the private school. What surprised him was that Ye Xiaoxian actually could bear such a thought! Although Ye Xiaoxian was the daughter-inw of the Xiao family and grew up in the Xiao family since her childhood, she bore a different family name Ye after all. Other married women either only cared about their parents family or live their own life selfishly, and few of them would like to pay for their brother-inw to go to private school. Ye Xiaoxian already knew that everyone would react like this, so she put down her bowl and said calmly to everyone, I know it costs money to go to private school, but money can be made by our hard work. Now we are selling cold jelly, arent we? One or two hundred copper coins a day make three or four thousand copper coins a month, enough for Baofengs tuition for one year. Think about it, if Baofeng misses the right age of attending to a private school, he will miss it all his life. The private schools dont recruit girls. If they do, Ill send Baozhu in as well. Ye Xiaoxian didnt think that boys are more important than girls at all, but the reality was that private schools around here didnt recruit girls, but only boys. Xiao Baozhu felt a little better after listening this but she was still saying dissatisfiedly, It doesnt matter whether I go to a private school or not, but Ive been chopping firewood with Baofeng in the past two years, and now Im the only one... Baozhu, you dont have to go up the mountain alone to cut firewoodter on. You can go with us to the town to sell cold jelly. I n to do other things to sell in the town as well. We are in need of hands. If we cant chop firewood, we might as well buy some. Its cheap after all. Ye Xiaoxian continued. Xiao Baozhu then felt satisfied. Ye Xiaoxian then looked at Li Hongmei and Xiao Baoshan, Ma, Baoshan, what do you think? Actually, Li Hongmei wanted to send Xiao Baofeng to private school a long time ago. She had been a prostitute in the county in the early years, and she had seen the world. She knew the importance of reading and the only problem was that she had no money. Now that it was a rare chance for Ye Xiaoxian to have mentioned this, naturally she would agree, so she nodded, OK, let Baofeng go to the private school then. But...Im afraid its going to be hard for little Ye. All the money in our family is earned by...you. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Ma, we are family so dont mention it. If Baofeng can study hard in school, his future will be more promising. If he makes a living on his own, he will requite our Xiao family, wont he? And also, I didnt make the money alone. Without your help, I cant possibly open up my cold jelly stall. Everyone nodded except Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan had been looking at Ye Xiaoxian in silence before, and he was shocked to see that Ye Xiaoxian spoke with intelligence and vision. He didnt expect to see such a woman in a remote mountain vige. She didnt even look like a girl in a mountain vige but ady from a big wealthy family. Baoshan, dont just stare at little Ye. Tell me if you agree with us or not? Li Hongmei kicked Baoshan under the table. Chapter 20 - A Conflict

Chapter 20: A Conflict

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK At that moment, Xiao Baoshan regained his usualposure, As the eldest brother, I should be responsible for Baofengs private school tuition, but now it is little Ye who... I feel very ashamed when little Ye brought it up. I cant just let you to pay for Baofengs tuition fee. I should also make a contribution. Then, its a deal. Lets arrange Baofeng to go to private school next month, said Li Hongmei excitedly. She then turned to Xiao Baofeng, Baofeng, you have seen it all tonight that you have such a brilliant brother and a brilliant sister-inw. When you go to private school, you have to work really, really hard. When you make a living on yourself in the future, you have to repay your brother and your sister-inw. Xiao Baofeng was a kid after all and he couldnt hold back his happiness when he knew that he could go to private school. He then looked at Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan with gratification. Thank you, brother. Thank you, sister-inw. I...Ill wash all the dishes today. No one is allowed to fight with me over them! Everyoneughed heartily seeing Baofengs dramatic behaviour. Only Xiao Baozhusugh was kind of forced. ... Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei continued to sell cold jelly in the town. The business went even smoother than before. On the first day the cold jelly were sold out by the evening, and the next day they were sold out just by afternoon. On the third day, someone bought half a bucket directly. The man said that he was the housekeeper of an eminent family, and he needed the cold jelly to entertain the guests. Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei were more and more excited. Seeing the copper coins in their purse was piling up, Baofengs tuition should be settled. But on the fourth day, the ce where they put their cold jelly stand was upied by others! The one who upied their ce was also a cold jelly seller and a board was hung up in the front of his stand, written with Bridgehead Cold Jelly on it. The seller was actually the one who sold cold jelly at the bridgehead. There was an old man standing at the stall. In front of him stood a cold jelly bucket, and beside it ced a basin of spoons and bowls. Once a man passed by, he immediately shouted, Come here, bridgehead time-honoured brand cold jelly. Come and buy some. One copper coin for one bowl of cold jelly. One copper coin for one bowl of cold jelly. Seeing this, Li Hongmei was so angry that she went forward and said, Uncle, didnt you sell it at the bridgehead? Why are you here today? Did you hear that we sell well here and want to upy our position? This is not the way to do business. Should the world only buy your cold jelly just because you started to sell it ahead of us? And now you even lower the price. Are you trying to be a hustler? If you do this, none of us will end up making money and well all work for nothing! That old man was a cocky person. He stood akimbo and said, Ive been selling cold jelly at bridgehead for more than a decade and who doesnt know we are a time-honoured brand? And now what? You guys started to sell cold jelly as well. You can sell cold jelly and I can upy this ce. This ce doesnt have your name on it and firste, first served. You...if you werent old, Ill punch your face, scolded Li Hongmei. That old man didnt care at all and went on crying out his wares, Cheapy-cheap cold jelly, one coin a bowl! Two coins yesterday but it only costs one now... Hey you...youre being so unreasonable! Li Hongmei tried to go up and reason with him again but was pulled back by Ye Xiaoxian. Ma, dont reason with such people. Its not going to work, said Ye Xiaoxian. What are we going to do now? Just letting him upying our ce? Where shall we set our stand then? asked Li Hongmei. Isnt it another ce beside? Lets set our stand here. Ye Xiaoxian pointed at the ce beside. But theres no shade here. Well get burnt by the scorching sun! said Li Hongmei at rage. Chapter 21 - Who Is He Caring For?

Chapter 21: Who Is He Caring For?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK No worries. We can buy some straw hatster so we wont be burned by the sun. The most important thing right now is our business and peace breeds wealth. She had been working in the catering industry for a good long time and she knew so well that the taste of food mattered the most. If the taste was not good, no matter how big the store was or how low the price was, it would be useless since people still wanted to go for quality food. A few momentster, Xiao Baoshan who went to fetch water came back. After realizing what was going on, Xiao Baoshan turned out to be as calm as Ye Xiaoxian and started tofort Li Hongmei, Ma, dont bother to argue with them. Just concentrate on selling cold jelly and sell as much as you can. Will, will it work? His cold jelly is one coin per bowl and ours is two coins per bowl. Li Hongmei was still feeling bad as she was concerned what if there was no more business today. They had almost gathered up the tuition fee for Xiao Baofeng with all those effort, how could he bear to see others rob their business away? Others should feel lucky since she hadnt snapped like a mad bitch who tried to protect her puppies. But Xiao Baoshan still said in a calm tone, Theyll end up causing themselves difficult. Ma, dont worry. Well surly make enough money to cover Baofengs tuition fee. What Xiao Baoshan said was exactly what worried Li Hongmei so Li Hongmei felt eased a bit and listened to her son, putting up their stall as usual. Xiao Baoshan then left for a short while before he came back. This time he brought back a wide ck oil cloth and several bamboo poles. Ye Xiaoxians eyes sparkled with surprise. Xiao Baoshan must want to use these to build up a sun-blocking shelter for them. Many stalls used this kind of sun-block shelter in the town now. Being such a strapping guy, Xiao Baoshan was actually a very careful person with such an attentive mind. He couldnt bear to see them get exposed under the sun so he went to fetch this oil cloth. I wonder if hes caring for his ma or his little bride. Ye Xiaoxian stared at Xiao Baoshan shyly. Xiao Baoshan nced at Ye Xiaoxian carelessly while putting up the shelter, finding she was staring at himself so he moved his gaze away immediately. The weather was smothering and Xiao Baoshan was drenched by sweat after working a short while. Li Hongmei passed a handkerchief to Ye Xiaoxian and nudged her shoulder, seemingly to suggest something. But Ye Xiaoxian didnt quite understand the hint and thought that Li Hongmei was letting her wipe her sweat. Li Hongmei saw Ye Xiaoxian being a bit dazed and dumb, and she then pointed at Baoshan directly and said, Little Ye, your husband has sweated so much. Hurry up and wipe his sweat for him. Ye Xiaoxian now understood, went directly to Xiao Baoshan and was trying to wipe his sweat for him but Xiao Baoshan suddenly took the handkerchief away. I better do it myself. He wiped his face hurriedly and returned the handkerchief to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian was a bit disappointed in her heart and Li Hongmei scolded aside, Dope! ... That Bridgehead Cold Jelly old man was stilling touting vigorously, Cold jelly, time-honoured brand cold jelly. One copper coin per bowl. Come and buy some. Once after the old man touted Li Hongmei then shouted in a higher pitch, Family Xiaos little brides hand-made cold jelly! Soft and smooth cold jelly, quenching your thirst and delicious! You wont have enough once you taste it! Li Hongmei looked just like a streetdy touting what she got at the gate of a brothel, being so high-pitched and sassy that old man was not her match in any case so he was beaten down after several rounds. Li Hongmei saw a middle-aged womaning to buy cold jelly and then approached her in full speed. Young miss, would you like some cold jelly? Have you tried our Family Xiaos cold jelly yet? Its sweet and smooth, very sweet indeed. The middle-aged woman said, Im an old auntie already yet you still call me young miss! Ah, how old are you? Twenty? asked Li Hongmei. Im forty! You dont look your age at all, said Li Hongmei, surprised. Hearing this, the middle-aged woman felt as sweet as eating honey. She ignored that old man and bought a bowl of cold jelly from Li Hongmei. She felt that it was so tasty that she bought another one. The old man trembled in fury. Chapter 22 - Whose Cold Jelly Is Tastier?

Chapter 22: Whose Cold Jelly Is Tastier?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK The old man shouted to the middle-aged woman, Sister, mine is one copper coin per bowl. Why do you bother to spend two more copper coins for buying her fine words? If you want to listen to such words, I can tell you more. The middle-aged woman replied, The thing is Ive bought one of hers yesterday and hers is tastier. After several moments, the chubby shopkeeper who hade on the first day came again. This time the old man acted swiftly,ing to the chubby shopkeeper and pulled his sleeves. Hey, this gentleman, youre the shopkeeper. I remember you. Youve always patronized my business but you seldom came to buy any recently. My cold jelly bes cheaper now. One coin per bowl. Would you like to try some? Li Hongmei standing aside said aloud, Shopkeeper, youre a businessman too so you should know that cheap goods equal poor qualities, right? He lowered the price today and he must put less sugar or add more water in it, but ours are different. Ours are maintaining the original vour of cold jelly. Ye Xiaoxian saw that Li Hongmei had been working so hard and she then followed suit. Thats right. Well add one more spoon of sugar for our regr customers. Chubby shopkeeper looked the old man and then turned to Ye Xiaoxian. He wanted to buy cheap stuff but also felt like a qualified one so he bought one each. People around had been witnessing the scene over there for long and they wanted to know whose cold jelly was tastier as well. Seeing that the chubby shopkeeper bought one bowl of cold jelly from each stall, a group of people started to surround them. The chubby shopkeeper was a well-known foodie. As long as he said something was tasty, it must be so. He tried the cold jelly of the bridgehead old mans, however, once he poured the cold jelly into him mouth, he frowned. He had been drinking Ye Xiaoxians cold jelly for days which made his pte be picky while now he just felt the bridgehead old mans cold jelly was too chewy, not sweet enough and very in. He then drank Ye Xiaoxians cold jelly and a satisfied smile crossed his chubby face right away. Ah, it was the same ingredients and the familiar taste. He then picked up his bowl and finished it up within several mouthfuls. He then said to Ye Xiaoxian, Little girl, Ill have another bowl! Ye Xiao hurriedly gave him another one. The onlookers saw this and naturally they knew that Ye Xiaoxians cold jelly must be tastier. Those people are not dumb, and though the bridgehead old mans cold jelly was cheaper, they knew that the old man must cheat in work and cut down on ingredients. Moreover, the bridgehead old mans deeds were on the contrary to the will of the people. Though you are the first stall selling cold jelly, others didnt rob your business in your neighbourhood; on the contrary, you came to rob others business. Is there a writtenw that youre the only cold jelly stall under the sun? Some onlookers couldnt bear to see this and some of them went to Ye Xiaoxian to buy a bowl of cold jelly to eat out of justice. The old man was even angrier. Ye Xiaoxian had been selling cold jelly here for several days. They had quite a few repeat customers. Some of them came to buy several bowls of cold jelly at one sitting. Although they were more expensive than those sold by the old man, their cold jelly were much more delicious. In addition, Li Hongmei was bold when she touted to passers-by and she dissed that bridgehead old man for several times. Their business was even hotter than the day before. Ye Xiaoxian found that if Li Hongmei was born in the modern times, she must be a marketing legend. Have a listen Brothers and sisters, Im from Daliang vige and I am a widow. My childrens father was gone years ago. Ive raised several children by myself. I used to live by picking wild vegetables and farming. But my daughter-inw learned how to make cold jelly a few days ago, so we came to the town to try our fortune. All thanks for your kindness and thank you for liking our cold jelly, we are so d too but who knows Who knows the bridgehead old man is such a nasty person. He was originally selling cold jelly at the bridgehead but when he heard that we did a good business here, he then came over and took our ce in the early morning. Thats right, the ce he stood now should be ours. As for his nasty tricks, I think everyone is more than clear... Chapter 23 - Little Girl In Front of Baoshan

Chapter 23: Little Girl In Front of Baoshan

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Despite the trouble of the old man at the bridgehead, the cold jelly was sold well that day. Just after noon, one bucket was gone empty. At the beginning, the old man at the bridgehead was arrogant, but Li Hongmeis fighting power was both aggressive and longsting. The old man could not take any advantage at all; not only could he not take advantage of it, but also was pointed out by passers-by that he was not kind and bullied a widow by touting his name as the first cold jelly seller. Just at noon, the old man headed back dejectedly to his old site at the bridge head. In the afternoon, the sun was so fierce that there were fewer pedestrians in the street. All the living things were wilting andnguid. Other peddlers or sellers on the street usually went to eat lunch at this time. Ye Xiaoxian also said to Li Hongmei, Ma, what do you want for lunch? Ill buy it for you. Li Hongmei thought for a moment, and then she suddenly got a sparkle and said, I heard from Baoshans uncles before that there is a pancake seller near the government office. The pancakes are very delicious. They have bought them secretly several times. They thought I didnt find out, humph, little Ye, why dont you go to buy two of them and we can have a taste? Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Sure. Im going to buy some right now. After walking for a while, Ye Xiaoxian suddenly realized that what Li Hongmei wanted was not the pancakes at all but to create opportunities for her and Baoshan. ... Ye Xiaoxian had been in town for all these days so she knew where the government office was. Qinghe County was not a big town. There were four or five streets in total. The weather was scorching hot now while streets were cold and deserted. Ye Xiaoxian started sweating after walking for a short while. She made her way to the government office arduously and found it was quite lively in front of its gate, as if all the pedestrians had been flooded here. There are many trees nted around the government office. The thick branches and leaves blocked the sunshine awaypletely. The cool wind under the shade kept all the heat away. Ye Xiaoxian was almost reaching the shades and she then subconsciously started to look for the tall figure in the crowd. People were staying in groups. Some were chatting together, some were throwing dice and some were sleeping under the shades. Ye Xiaoxian looked for a while and finally spotted that familiar figure under a big banyan tree. He sat under the treezily and his handymans uniform, a mandarin jacket was taken off and put aside. There were some other his co-workers sitting under the tree and leaning on the trunk in azy way as well. Although they were sitting there in a simr posture, Ye Xiaoxian found Xiao Baoshans disposition outstanding; no matter what posture he adopted, one could take a picture of him as a charming-man poster to save for appreciatingter. Ye Xiaoxian was hesitant, wondering if she should go over and say hello; however, a young girl somehow popped up, with a lunchbox in her hand, and she walked towards Xiao Baoshan and his mates. The girl was sixteen or seventeen, wearing a light-blue dress with a silk cloth bound in her head and her hair was braided and draped down. She had a graceful figure and her face was really red by being exposed to the sunshine too long. Once she came, those sluggish handymen became lively and energetic at once. They sat straight and some started teasing her. Yaer, what did you prepare for us today? I thought Yaer wouldnte today. I almost went to buy some big filled buns just now! How could Yaer note? Unless theres a storm caues we got Baoshan here. Ha ha ha... ... The young girl named Yaer didnt answer but only smiled shyly; meanwhile, she opened the lid of the lunchbox where steamed buns and shortbread were ced. She took out the steamed buns and shortbread, giving them out to everyone and then closed the lid. When she was going to leave, she paused and nced at Baoshan and her gaze happened to meet Baoshans gaze.Suddenly, she became even more blushed, carrying the lunchbox and walked away hurriedly. Chapter 24 - Was There Any Bad Guy?

Chapter 24: Was There Any Bad Guy?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Xiao Baoshans mates saw the whole scene and they started to make a fuss. Yaer treated Baoshan differently from us. Her younger brother used to give out food to us but she was the only one whoes recently. But our Baoshan already has a wife, dont you? Your little bride who sold cold jelly in east town days ago? Baoshan, do you have a wife or not? Or, do you fancy Yaer? ... No matter how others teased him, Xiao Baoshan didnt answer. Neither did he acknowledge nor deny but only kept eating his shortbread like there was nothing to do with him. Ye Xiaoxian felt so sulky by seeing all of these. You dont acknowledge me as your wife; furthermore, you actually eyed another girl up. You dont seem to take me, your wife seriously. Ye Xiaoxians sulkiness somehow gradually had been reced byughter. It was she who was to me by bearing all such wistful thinking. She thought they were real husband and wife after sleeping together but Xiao Baosha obviously didnt buy it. He never took her as his wife, or he wouldnt sleep in a separate bed at night and he never called her sweetheart at all. So it turned out that Xiao Baoshan was not a dope. He was just not into her. Ye Xiaoxian simply didnt want to speak to Xiao Baoshan at all so she bought two pancakes around and carried them, going back hurriedly. ... Little Ye, do you see Baoshan? asked Li Hongmei excitedly once she saw little Ye came back. No, said Ye Xiaoxian inly. Little Ye, whats wrong? You didnt quite look well? Li Hongmei had been working in sales department once, so she could take ones cue from their words and facial expressions so she just by one look could she tell that Ye Xiaoxian must be upset. Nothing. Its just the weather is so hot so Im kind of not very high-spirited. Ye Xiaoxian wiped her sweat and passed the pancake to Li Hongmei, Ma, eat the pancake first. Good, Li Hongmei took the pancake and had a good bite. Mhmm, delicious, really good. I hadt had such a good pancake for ages. Little Ye, hurry up and have yours. Ye Xiaoxian took a bite but she hardly found it tasty. The outyer of the pancake was not crispy and there were some tiny trace of eggs and spring onions in. The eggs were too watery and it tasted like it had been soaked in rain, very moist. Ma, are you sure this is the best pancake in Qinghe County? asked Ye Xiaoxian. If its not the best, it must be the second best or why would your elder and your third uncle always mentioned the pancake beside the government building? How was their business when you went there and buy them? asked Li Hongmei. Their business is pretty good. Not incredible, but there was a queue, said Ye Xiaoxian and she took another bite. Li Hongmei smiled, Could it be that youve cooked all kinds of delicious dishes so you are picky about food now? So you dont find others food tasty at all. Ye Xiaoxian gave it a think and quite agreed with her. Although many modern dishes were handed down from ancient times, the future generations must have been improved and processed, and the taste would only be better than that of thest generation. In this era, by no means could the food be tastier than what she cooked. She suddenly felt that not before long, maybe her stall would be expanded. They sold out their cold jelly near dusk today. After they sold out the cold jelly, each of Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei carried a pair of buckets and went back to the direction of home. It was ten something miles from the town to home. It was not that far so it only took them a bit less than one hour to reach home. The only thing was that there were few pedestrians on their way back home. There were either hills or bamboo groves. Ye Xiaoxian didnt feel strange or anything in other days but today she somehow felt her heart beat faster, especially when they reached the bamboo grove. I say, ma. There wont be any... bandit inside, will it? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Chapter 25 - Being Robbed

Chapter 25: Being Robbed

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Li Hongmei had an ominous feeling as well. The bamboo grove was just down this road. There were usually birds chirping but they did not hear any today which make them feel uneasy. Maybe, we stop for a while and wait to see if there were othersing to the same direction. If someonees, we can go together with them. Hows this? said Li Hongmei. The two of them waited outside of the bamboo grove. They did not see any other pedestriansing over; instead, two men rushed out from the bamboo grove and one of the two was the bridgehead old man! The bridgehead old man went all red from neck to forehead by waiting in the grove for a long time. Once he rushed out, he began to swear, You two cows! You robbed away my business and made me a ridicule. With all these years, I have been making a living by selling cold jelly. What the hell are you two up to? And the other was a young man who looked like the old mans son. He scolded too, I heard that you even insulted my pa by making up stories, some bullshit like he bullied you as a widow! It was you who bullied an elder man! Ye Xiaoxian saw the father and son bearing an enraged air and she knew that they could not be reasoned with, so she protect Li Hongmei behind her back and took shoulder pole in her hand. What are you up to now? The son of the old man said, There are two options for you. First, stop selling cold jelly from tomorrow; second, if you dont listen to me, Ill give you a good kick today. Ill take care of you every time you went to sell cold jelly! Ye Xiaoxian said with a sneer, the town is not your home. I can sell whatever I like. Its none of your business. Now Ill give you two options as well. First, disappear right now from here. Ill let you go. Second, we arent afraid of you just because youre men. If we really fight, I wonder who will end up being kicked ass! Li Hongmei saw that Ye Xiaoxian had make it definite and she had no choice but whispered drily, Little Ye, actually we canpromise today and let Baoshan teach them a lesson tomorrow. Ma, we should teach them a lesson once for all or theyll think were afraid of them. So do you know any kung fu? Youve practised it before? Nope. But showing an imposing manner before a fight is important. ... The father and son saw Ye Xiaoxians reckless manner and they were more furious. They picked up shoulder poles to strike onto Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian held the shoulder pole, giving out a shout to boost her courage and rushed to these two! Li Hongmei had no option but to rush towards them as well. The two sides were about to confront each other; at this time, a piece of stick with a fierce gust of wind whirled and flew over, hitting the bridgehead old man on the knee, and the old man tripped, falling down on the mud on his face. Before everyone even realized, another piece of stick flew over, hitting on the old mans son and he fell on the muddy ground as well. Everyone was shocked and Ye Xiaoxian looked back subconsciously, ncing the tall and muscr figure of Xiao Baoshan appearing on the mountainne. It was he who threw those two pieces of stick just now! He must have practiced kung fu. Ye Xiaoxians heart fluttered towards Xiao Boshan again and it took her quite a while to suppress her pounding heart. She said to herself: Xiao Baoshan doesnt like you. He has someone in his heart already. Baoshan, the man and his son were trying to hit us just now! How lucky we were as you were here or little Ye and I would be doomed. s, my heart was still thumping. Ma was so heavenly shocked. Li Hongmei put her arm in Baoshans, taking him as a life-saving shelter. Li Hongmei then said to Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, arent you afraid? Come near here to Baoshan, hurry up! Chapter 26 - Fetch Some Water for Me

Chapter 26: Fetch Some Water for Me

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Li Hongmei was trying to make Ye Xiaoxian seize the chance and go arm in arm with Xiao Baoshan but Ye Xiaoxian just went behind Xiao Baoshan and that was all. Li Hongmei was so disappointed to see this. The father and son on the ground could not get up for a long time. They cried ouch, ouch after they got up. Looking at the tall and gloomy Xiao Baoshan, they dared not to even mention what they were originallying for. They were too frightened to stand still, shivering all over and could not move a muscle to speak against the other side. Xiao Baoshans voice was low and hoarse. If you still want to do business at the bridgehead, watch out your manner and behave yourselves. If I catch you one more time doing such nasty things, you dont even think about living in Qinghe County! The father and son dared not utter a word, nor did they even take a nce at Ye Xiaoxian or Li Hongmei. They hurriedly took their shoulder pole and almost crawled away from the other side. Baoshan, the move of yours were amazing just now! Have you practiced kung fu before? Li Hongmei was totally on at her son. Wasnt I being in the army before? Ive practiced kung fung, said Xiao Baoshan. No wonder. When you just popped up, I thought you were like some sort of martial artist! Li Hongmei was like a fan of her son. Xiao Baoshan was still behaving very coolly, shifting all the buckets carried by his ma and little Ye to his own body, and said, Its goingte. Lets go back soon. Baofeng and Baozhu were waiting for us at home. Ye Xiaoxian tidied up her clothes and followed him silently. ... At night, Ye Xiaoxian carried a basin in order to fetch some water to wipe her body. The housing condition was really bad. They didnt have a showering room so what they could only do was fetching some water back to their rooms, wiping and washing their bodies and changing their dirty clothes. All in all, everything was not as convenient as in modern days. Seeing Ye Xiaoxiane out and fetch water, Li Hongmei suddenly shouted loudly, Baoshan, go help little Ye Xiaoxian to carry some water. Little Ye has been busy for a whole day and was frightened on the way back. You have to be more attentive to your own wife. Ye Xiaoxian. ... Not before long, Xiao Baoshan came out from Baofengs room. He poured a whole basin of water for Ye Xiaoxian and carried it to her room. Just before he went out, Ye Xiaoxian called him. Baoshan, wait a second. Can I have a word? Ye Xiaoxian sat on the rim of the bed, raised her head to look at Xiao Baoshan. The oilmp was lit in the room, reflecting her side face. From the perspective of Xiao Baoshan, she was extremely beautiful. She had an oval face, a sharp but tender chin, and slightly upturned eyes, which add an indescribable charm to her. Xiao Baoshan then said, Little Ye, please go ahead! I just want to ask you if you treat me as your wife or not in your heart. Ye Xiaoxian looked at him boldly. ... Xiao Baoshan was like being stunned and became awkward all of a sudden. You dont answer me then I take it as a no. Let me ask you another thing. You said youd be responsible for me so whats in your mind? asked Ye Xiaoxian. I will take responsibility of you. I will not get married with another girl in my whole life. Ill do everything you tell me to do, said Xiao Baoshan solemnly. Tsk! swore Ye Xiaoxian silently. This was hardly a husband but a ve. Ye Xiaoxian raised her head and continued, It was too hypocritical to say not to get married for a lifetime. If you fancy other girls someday, you can tell me about it and we can have a harmonious divorce* (a divorcing rule in ancient China). By then you can marry the girl you like while I have my skill so you dont have to worry Ill go starving to die. Im okay to lead a life alone. Seeing Ye Xiaoxians attitude, he suddenly looked at her in daze. A vige woman actually uttered the two words harmonious divorce. Fine, Im going to wash up. You can leave now. Thank you for helping me with the water! Ye Xiaoxian threw him out and banged the door heavily. Chapter 27 - Windward Hall

Chapter 27: Windward Hall

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK This day, Ye Xiaoxian had sold her cold jelly really fast which had been sold out just after noon. In other days, she would take a stroll in the town, buy some household items or learn more about Qinghes food culture. But today, she went home earlier. They had saved a lot of money, together with Xiao Baoshans one tael of silver so the matter of Baofeng going to the private school should be scheduled soon. Ye Xiaoxian went home early and took Xiao Baofeng to the private school in town. There was only one private school in town. There were not many students as the vigers valued the agriculture the most, so every boy would go back home to farm in the future. They were sent to the private school simply for the sake of not beingpletely illiterate but they were seldom expected to pursue an official career. Most of them would study for two or three years and went back to be farmers. Ye Xiaoxian thought that either for the sake of wiping out illiteracy or the pursuit of official career, as long as one household could afford, they should sent their boys to school. The private school in town called Windward Hall, opened by borough chiefs in town. After they set up the private school and hired a teacher, they then started to admit students. Windward Hall was actually a row of tiled houses with only two ssrooms. One was used for teaching children who had just entered the school, and the other was used for teaching the children who had entered the school for two or three years. At this time, there were sound of reading books alouding from both ssrooms. When listening carefully, they were chanting verses from some ssical Chinese literature. When Ye Xiaoxian took Xiao Baofeng in the school, she saw a fifty-something-year-old elder who was tidying up the courtyard. The elder was neatly dressed and looked vigorous so Ye Xiaoxian thought he must be the manager of the private school. She then came over and asked, Excuse me, might you not be the school teacher? Id like to ask the matters of the enrolment. The elder raised his head and nced at Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baofeng and then shouted to one of the two ssrooms, Schr Wong, youre wanted! After one shout, he continued to tidy up the courtyard and he didnt seem to be much involved in this matter. In a moment, a young man went out from one of the ssrooms. This young man was in his twenties, tall and slim, and dressed in a simple light-blue robe. He even cupped his hands to salute to Ye Xiaoxian when he came to her, very much bearing the disposition as a schrship. Ye Xiaoxian med herself for being ignorant. How could she mistook the elder for the teacher of this private school? She had surely underestimated the vige private school. Mr. Wong, may I know if you still admit students here? This is my little brother. His name is Xiao Baofeng, eight years old. He never went to a private school before and he cant read. Id like to let him study in your school, said Ye Xiaoxian politely. She then let Xiao Baofeng extend respect to Schr Wong and Baofeng did what she told him. It was just he never saluted properly to anyone before so his acting looked a bit funny. Schr Wong firstly sized Ye Xiaoxian up, then turned to Xiao Baofeng and said, Yes we do. Students here cane at any time if they want to go to school, but they have to pay two taels of silver for covering tuition fee and lunch fee. We have sufficient money here so it wont be a problem. I just wanted to know more about the lessons you teach normally. What else do you teach the children except literacy ss? Literacy is only one part of the schooling. In addition, we will teach The Four Books (The Great Learning, The Doctrine of the Mean, The Confucian Analects, and The Works of Mencius) and The Five ssics (The Book of Songs, The Book of History, The Book of Changes, The Book of Rites and The Spring and Autumn Annals). It depends on his ability ofprehension and eptance, and whether he is willing to work hard, said Schr Wong. Right, the Four Books and theFive ssics are fine, said Ye Xiaoxian. Schr Wong paused and felt a bit stunned. Is this young girl not only literate but she knows about the Four Books and the Five ssics? Daliang Vige was a remote area. Men did not normally go to school, let alone women, yet a vige girl actually knew all of this? Chapter 28 - She Has Already Been Taken Chapter 28: She Has Already Been Taken If there is no further questions, Ill go to write a receipt for you so you can pay the tuition fee first. His name is Xiao Baofeng, right? Any chance you might know which three characters are they? said Schr Wong who was sounding Ye Xiaoxian out to see if she could really read. Ye Xiaoxian answered, Xiao is the musical instrument, Bao is for jewel and Feng is for wind. She surely could read. When Schr Wong went to write the receipt, Ye Xiaoxian said to Xiao Baofeng outside the door, Baofeng, I guess you know what your teacher just said, dont you? You must study diligently when you go to school and only in this way can you learn more things. This first step is to be literate and after that, you can start to learn The Book of Songs. The poems in it are so beautiful. Like the verses: Guan! Guan! Cry the fish hawks, on sandbars in the river; a mild-mannered gooddy, fine match for the gentleman. Or At first, when I set out, The willows were fresh and green; Now, when we shall be returning, The snow will be falling clouds. Xiao Baofeng asked, Sister-inw, what are those...talking about? The first verse talks about a beautiful girl. If you think a girl is pretty, itll sound in by simply saying that she is pretty. But if you can read such poems aloud, youll be considered as a man of literary talent. Xiao Baofeng then chuckled, I see. So Sister-inw is...a mild-mannered some sort of gooddy and my brother is the willow or the snowing clouds! Haha... Ye Xiaoxians conversation with Xiao Baofeng were all heard by Schr Wong. Schr Wong was writing the receipt when he heard Ye Xiaoxian read verses of The Book of Songs and he was stunned. He did not expect Ye Xiaoxian to know such things. When he heard that Ye Xiaoxian recited At first, when I set out, the willows were fresh and green, his heart even fluttered. But when he heard Xiao Baofeng called her Sister-inw, Schr Wong suddenly had a sense of loss. The girl was so young yet she had already been taken. He was wondering what kind of a lucky fellow could marry such a beautiful and smart young woman. When Schr Wong got the receipt ready and gave it to Ye Xiaoxian, Ye Xiaoxian then said to him in order to show her courtesy, Sir, our Baofeng depends all on you from now on. You might as well be a little stricter to him. If he doesnt study hard, please feel free to punish him. Dont go easy on him. Right, yea, sure! Schr Wong stuttered a little. Ye Xiaoxian smiled towards him and then asked, Sir, do you have any pen, ink, paper and inkstone? I want to buy some from you because I also have a young sister back home and I want to teach her to read. Sure, sure. I have extra left and Ill share some with you. Schr Wong then went inside to fetch some of these materials. Ye Xiaoxian then said to Baofeng, Baofeng, then you stay here and go back home after school. Dont dawdle on the way home and be sure to go back home on time. Okay? Yes, Sister-inw. Baofeng was feeling both nervous and excited. Work hard and diligently and try your best to catch up. If you study well, you may pass the imperial examinations and be selected as a schr and then you dont have to work in the farnd. This will be an ideal life for you. Ye Xiaoxian added. Schr Wong went back in a minute and carried some brand-new writing materials. Ye Xiaoxian took them and gave him 20 coins. Schr Wong did not want to take them but Ye Xiaoxian insisted. She had been left for a while yet he still turned around and nced at her back. Chapter 29 - His Handwritings

Chapter 29: His Handwritings

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Little Ye, you took Baofeng to the private school already? He didnte back with you? Seeing Ye Xiaoxian hade back, Li Hongmei asked her immediately. In front of the earthy house, Li Hongmei was killing fish and Xiao Baozhu was washing vegetables. Yea Ive took him here but its not yet time for the ss to be dismissed so I came back first. But I reckon it wont take long for Baofeng to go back home. Dont worry about him, Ma. I went to the private school and the environment was nice and the teacher was kind too. I heard that the teacher is a schr as well. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. This is good, good. I still cant believe that Baofeng has already gone to a private school. Li Hongmei looked rather stirred, Little Ye, all thanks to you. Ma, dont be like this any more. Were a family. I also bought some writing materials and I n to teach Baozhu to read as well. Xiao Baozhu was a bit frustrated before since Baofeng went to private school, among her peers, she was the only one left. She was afraid of being left out. But when she heard that Ye Xiaoxian bought writing materials back home, she was somewhat cheered up. You bought pen and ink for me? But whos going to teach me? asked Xiao Baozhu. Baofeng can teach you alright. He can teach you everything he learns from private school. He needs to go over what he has learned anyway, or I can teach you as well, though...I cant read much words, said Ye Xiaoxian. She was telling the truth since what she learned in modern times were simplified Chinese but in ancient times, people used the traditional version of Chinese characters and though she could read, she was unable to write. Then...Ill learn after Baofeng. Xiao Baozhu finally gave out an expectant look. Baozhu, you dont have to go up to the mountain to chop firewood anymore from tomorrow. Just follow us to the town to do some business. Were badly inck of hands now. You can practice writing Chinese characters when youre free and Im sure youll be an educated and sensible girl in the near future. Xiao Baozhu became more and more excited. Ye Xiaoxian then said to Li Hongmei, Ma, please attend to the work here in the kitchen. Ill go to teach Baozhu how to use pen and ink. Li Hongmei answered precisely, Of course. Go ahead! ... When Xiao Baoshan came back from the town, he saw Ye Xiaoxian teaching Xiao Baozhu to write inside the room. Ye Xiaoxian was teaching Baozhu how to hold a writing brush and how to write each stroke. Ye Xiaoxian was very devoted with her head lowering a bit. From this angle, her little face looked rather delicate. Xiao Baoshan was a bit confused, Little Ye can read! Xiao Baozhu was very passionate at the beginning, but after practicing for a while, she had lost her interests at all. First, she was almost 13 years old but had never practiced Chinese characters so it was very difficult for her to learn. Second, she was not very talented. After practicing for a while, she was bored and said, It was so difficult to write Chinese characters. I dont really think I can do it. Of course you can, as long as you want to learn it, said Ye Xiaoxian patiently. Not even a handful of girls can read in our vige, so I...s, I better quit it now, yea? Xiao Baozhu decided to fink out. No, you must learn. Our ma can read some and so does your second brother and now Baofengs been studying in the private school as well so youre the only one left, arent you? But... Xiao Baozhu was still trying to say something. Meanwhile, Xiao Baoshan stepped forward. Little Ye, let me teach Baozhu, said Xiao Baoshan. He knew that Ye Xiaoxian could not do anything with Baozhu, and as her elder brother, he had to stand out. Are...you sure? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Yes. When Xiao Baoshan came in, he stood in front of Xiao Baozhu with a straight face and put on airs as an elder brother. Baozhu, Im going to teach you how to write your own name. Now look at me writing it first. Ye Xiaoxian was watching too. When those vigorous characters jumped onto the paper, Ye Xiaoxians heart began to thump again. It turned out that a thick and rash guy like him actually had such good handwritings! Chapter 30 - Thanks To You Two

Chapter 30: Thanks To You Two

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK His handwritings were so neat that drew Ye Xiaoxians face closer and closer to him and atst she was almost snuggled up to him. They were so close that his nose tip almost touched her cheek and she could feel his breath and observe his face, dark but with delicate features. By some chance, she was stunned and just stared at him in a daze. Atst Xiao Baozhu asked, What are you guys doing? Are you going to teach me how to write or what? Ye Xiaoxian went back to her senses and then blushed, keeping certain distance with him subconsciously, You, you go on. Ill go to help Ma cook dinner! ... It didnt take long before Xiao Baofeng went back home. Xiao Baofeng wore two pigtail buns on each side of his head today and Li Hongmei used some rags to sew a cloth bag for him to ce his books, pens and inks in. He looked rather adorable, like one of those ancient schoolboys on TV. Xiao Baofeng was obviously very excited. As soon as he came back, he ran to the kitchen to find Li Hongmei and saw that ye Xiaoxian was also there. He couldnt help chattering, Today, I only learned to write my name because it was not full time for me today. I also listened to my ssmates reading. Some of my ssmates are so good that they can read poems... Ye Xiaoxian stir-fried her dishes while smiling, What are the odds of that! Baozhu was learning to write her name as well. Just over there in Mas room. Talk about your experience to Baozhu and maybe you can study together. Xiao Baofeng then ran to Xiao Baozhus. Xiao Baofeng had run out for a while but Li Hongmei still wore a smile on her face. She smiled to Ye Xiaoxian. Is it just me or does our life go better and better? Dont you like it? asked Ye Xiaoxian smilingly. Of course I like it. Ive been thinking. I think it was all because of you and Baoshan. Since you two spent your wedding night together, our life has be sweeter than honey. I know that you and Baoshan havent got along as other spouses do, but its only a step away. Dont worry, Baoshan will beg you to let him stay in the same room with you one day. Ma, what are you talking about? Ye Xiaoxian recalled the girl she saw from the government office and she did not feel at ease at all. Im afraid Xiao Baoshan has already had someone in his heart. ... Todays dinner was a braised fish, a te of wild mushrooms, and rice. Both sides of the braised fish were fried golden and crispy, and Ye Xiaoxian then sprinkled some brown sugar and lemon juice on it which tasted sweet and sour, crispy and appetizing. The wild mushrooms were boiled into broth which tasted lightly sweet and delicious and also went rather well with rice. The whole family was in a good mood tonight. Everyone was having dinner while listening to Xiao Baofeng talking about what happened in school. They were very happy and harmonious. Nheless, there were someone who did not appreciate this harmonious scene at all. In the elder household, Wong Mudans son Xiao Baocheng went home as well. Once he got home he said to Wong Mudan, Ma, Baofeng went to school as well. We went back home together today. Xiao Baocheng was ten years old and he has been gone to school for three years. He could recite some poems and verses and once there was a holiday or festival, Wong Mudan would let him recite poems in front of n leaders. Although what he recited were simple verses like the moon shines on my bed brightly, so that I mistook it for frost on the ground, but those n leaders didnt understand. They think that as long as the child could recite poems, he was a good kid. They also said that the child would have great achievements in the future, maybe he could be a schr. Modern people thought that the ancient schrs were pretty broke, but in fact, they were not. Schrs had a sry to im, though the sry was less than what an official could get. Compared with the rural people who spend most of their time tilling and harvesting crops, it was much more promising to be a schr than to till a farnd for a lifetime. So Wong Mudan would rather live in a thrifty life and insisted on letting Xiao Baocheng go to private school. Chapter 31 - The Second Household Is Better Off?

Chapter 31: The Second Household Is Better Off?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Huh? Xiao Baofeng went to school as well? Are you sure? It costs two taels of silver a year to go to school and where did they get all those money? Wong Mudans eyes popped out when she was shocked, just like a frog with a pair of eyes on the top of its head. How could I know! said Xiao Baocheng, I am sure it was him anyway. He is a new student and Schr Wong of our school showed Xiao Baofeng in himself. He asked us to take care of our new ssmate as well. Let me have a look! said Wong Mudan. Wong Mudan went to the kitchen of the second household, and firstly she smelled of some very inviting fragrance of cooked fish, then heard Xiao Baofeng and others discussing about the private school. She drooled at the door and listened for a while; then she confirmed, Xiao Baofeng really went to school! Wong Mudan left quietly from that row of houses and then went to old Mr. Xiaos room. Pa, theres a thing I want to tell you. Baofeng goes to school! Wong Mudan said it aloud as soon as she went in the room. It was almost dark and old Mr. Xiao did not lit up hismp so Wong Mudan did not know what he was doing inside. Later when she saw things clearly, she found old Mr. Xiao scraping off dirt from his body. Old Mr. Xiao did not like bathing. With a handful bathing times a year, he stank all year round. When Wong Mudan came in, he ced his clothes down and scolded her severely, Cant you make some noise before you get in? It did not concern Wong Mudan at all but she continued rashly, Pa, youre just scraping dirt off, arent you? Whats the big deal? Besides, did you hear what I just said? Baofeng has gone to private school! Old Mr. Xiao red at Wong Mudan and said disgustedly, What is so strange of Baofeng going to school? Hes already eight, isnt he? Pa, the tuition fee of private school is two taels of silver a year. Baofeng goes to school and what does it mean by that? It means that the second household has got money. After Wong Mudan finished, old Mr. Xiao suddenly became dumb. They have got money? Right so. Didnt they make a scene of living separately from us not long ago? Theyve suddenly got money just after they live separately. Are they not deliberately hiding their money away from the rest of us? Pa, do you forget that they still owe you 500 coins a month as the filial piety tribute. Old Mr. Xiao tightened his waist belt right away and thumped to Li Hongmeis. The second household have already finished dinner. Xiao Baofeng and Xiao Baozhu were washing dishes and Li Hongmei was wiping the table. Ye Xiaoxian had already returned to her room and Xiao Baoshan went to fetch some water beforepletely dark. Seeing old Mr. Xiaoing over, Baofeng and Baozhu said Grandpa, without much enthusiasm. These two children did not like their grandpa much. They were brought up by Li Hongmei alone. No matter how busy Li Hongmei was, old Mr. Xiao would never give her a hand at all. Sometimes there was a peddler in the vigeing around and old Mr. Xiao would go to buy some candy men for his grandchildren, but he never gave anything to the second household, which upset Baozhu and Baofeng so much that they could not help crying. Baofeng, I heard that you went to school today, didnt you? asked old Mr. Xiao. Baofeng answered him while cleaning the dishes, Yes, grandpa. Who gave you this money? asked old Mr. Xiao. Xiao Baofeng sensed that it was not that simple. His grandpa must note over and ask him about this out of concern so Baofeng did not reply. Li Hongmei heard it inside the room and she was sure that the old man muste here for the money which rendered her rage well up. Humph, he never came to them that quickly before when they were in need of his help. Now he heard that they were better off so he was able to run as fast as a hare. Li Hongmei threw down the wiping cloth, suppressing her anger, and said with a smile on her face, Pa, Baofeng indeed went to private school today. Baoshan borrowed the money from his friends. After all, Baofeng is already eight years old. Little Ye also told me that no matter how poor we are and how hard our life is, we have to let our children get educated, so we decide to keep a stiff upper lip and send him to the private school. You borrowed that money? asked old Mr. Xiao confusingly. Chapter 32 - Li Hongmei’s Fighting Capacity Chapter 32: Li Hongmeis Fighting Capacity Yea, its borrowed. Li Hongmei sneered again. Could it be that Pa you also think that its the time for our Baofeng to go to school, so youe over to give us some financial help? Our Baofeng is very smart and he can write his name on the first day. Baofeng, fetch some paper and a pen. Write your name down for grandpa. Xiao Baofeng was about to go inside the room when old Mr. Xiao waved his hand, Well, since the money is borrowed, you might as well pay it back slowly by yourselves. But let me tell you something. Baofeng wille back to farm sooner orter. Why do you have to bother to throw this money away? What a waste! Have you ever seen any farmer in this vige who can read? Pa, Baocheng has went to private school for years. Why dont you say the money he spent is a waste? retorted Li Hongmei. Wong Mudan who followed old Mr. Xiao almost jumped up, How can youpare your Baofeng with my Baocheng? Baocheng is smart and gifted. He is going to attend the imperial examination and finally get selected to be a schr. Your Baofeng can at most read one character or two. Eder sister-inw, youre a bit too much by putting things this way. Your Baocheng has been to school for years but what he only knows is always the same the moon shines on my bed brightly. He didnt even bother to change another one. You may fool n leaders by this but not me! Yo-ho, you sound like youve seen the world. Oh, thats right. The oneing from a brothel knows a lot more than we do. She though was a harlot before, Li Hongmei never felt inferior due to this. On the contrary, she hated that Wong Mudan always picked on her and used this to attack her. She then shouted cockily, Im not the best, but ranked the third! I never saw someone as thick-skinned as you are! Now you see? ... The two women quibbled and argued without a break which stirred not only members of the Xiao family but the neighbour Mrs. Zhao has alsoe out, who stood aside and watched this show. Old Mr. Xiao felt degraded so he started to scold others again, Shut up you two! We have already lived separately and youre still like this. Give me a break or Ill chuck both of you to the ancestral house to live! Wong Mudan and Li Hongmei stopped quarreling right away but still Li Hongmei muttered, Pa, I guess you havent had dinner yet. Elder sister-inw is really interesting. She has time to argue with me here but has no time to cook dinner for you! Old Mr. Xiao just realized that he hadnt had dinner yet so he scolded Wong Mudan again, Hurry up and cook dinner! Are you going to starve me to death? Wong Mudan had no choice but went back to the kitchen obediently to cook dishes. This was a shoring for the second household living apart. At first, Li Hongmei used to do most of the work and chores for the family but now all the household chores wereid on the shoulders of Wong Mudan and Chen Ju. They had to cook and chop firewood as well which made them as exhausted as cows. ... Ye Xiaoxian had witnessed her mother-inws artiction before. She knew that no one could surpass Li Hongmei in the department of argument so she did nothing but stood at the door and looked. After this matter was solved, Li Hongmei called all her family together hurriedly, shutting the door and she urged everyone carefully, Listen to me. We have made money by selling cold jelly in town but you must keep it as a secret. If anyone asks you about this, you then tell them that we cant make much out of it and we can only afford buying some rice, flour and vegetables. You heard me? Xiao Baoshan nodded, the other two little ones nodded too and Ye Xiaoxian said, Yes, Ma! Anyway, we just pretend we are awfully broke and poor. We are just a bit better off now so we need to try our best to hide it away. Ye Xiaoxian said, But we cant hide it away from others forever. Im confident that our business will be bigger and bigger and well make much more money day by day. When we got enough money, Im thinking to make more new outfit and shoes for everyone and by then, both aunts will notice it. Like this...wed better not, not wear any new clothes then? asked Li Hongmei hesitantly. Chapter 33 - New Clothes

Chapter 33: New Clothes

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Actually Li Hongmei longed to wear some new clothes. It had been a long time since she wore some new outfit. What she put on everyday were old and worn-out ones with patches all over them. What her children wore were also secondhand outfits; what was more, due to their physical growth, they had long outgrown those clothes. Xiao Baozhu was a girl and girls like to be dolled up. Once she heard that they couldnt buy new clothes, she said sulkily, I dont agree. Baocheng and others have new clothes every year but why dont we? Well... Li Hongmei was indeed good at arguing, but she has been bullied for all these years so she would rather wear old clothes than cause new troubles. Atst, Xiao Baoshan stepped forward and said, Ma, though we shouldnt show off our money, we dont have to deny ourselves all pleasure. You have earned these money with your own two hands so just spend some when you feel like, or whats the meaning of making money? We dont have to mind what elder and third aunties would say as long as we pay off the filial piety tribute to grandpa. We have done anything for them these years and we dont owe them anything. Ye Xiaoxian then said, Yes, Ma. Baoshan is right. We surely have to keep it low but we should not deny ourselves any pleasure. Money is meant to be spend. After Ye Xiaoxian finished speaking, Xiao Baoshan turned around and looked at her, feeling supported. But Ye Xiaoxian didnt requite his gaze at all but only looked at Li Hongmei. Li Hongmei pondered over and over and finally said, Fine, since you all agree, Id rather listen to you. As I was fighting all alone within these years, Baozhu and Baofeng were little, but now Baoshan hase home and little Ye is able to deal with things alone, what else am I afraid of? Then lets try our best to make money and spend our money generously! Like this, the whole family began to cheer up. ... The next day, Ye Xiaoxian got up early and made cold jelly as usual. Baozhu and Baoshan used to pick Chinese mesona in the mountain to make cold jelly, but now since Baofeng was going to private school, Ye Xiaoxian couldnt let Baozhu go up to the mountains alone but asked Baozhu to learn how to make cold jelly after her. Baozhu, look. This is the rice juice I blended and the thickness is just right. It wont do if its too thick or too watery. Baozhu, you have to control your strength when rubbing the mesona. If you rub it too hard, the cold jelly will be hard too. So does the sugar water. If you make it too thick, itll be too sweet and a waste of money but if you make it too watery, it wont be sweet enough. ... Ye Xiaoxian unreservedly taught Xiao Baozhu her secret recipe for making cold jelly. Xiao Baozhu somehow found Ye Xiaoxian a bit odd. She thought that would it be that Ye Xiaoxian treat her as a maid and after she learnt everything, Ye Xiaoxian would just sit back and do nothing? But Xiao Baozhu was just happy to learn anyway because she knew that they made money out of this, besides, she could go to town. She hadnt gone to town much in her whole life. Xiao Baozhu didnt expect that their cold jelly was that popr until they arrived in town. Especially after the incident with the bridgehead old man that day, the Xiaos Cold Jelly were brought to the front. There were even some people around their stall waiting for their cold jelly before they came. Xiao Baozhu was a bit at a loss at the beginning but when she saw that her ma and little Ye were perfectly at ease of giving the cold jelly to the customers as well as taking the money, she then followed suit and started to get herself busy. Just before noon, the housekeeper of a wealthy and influential family who bought half the bucket cold jellyst time came around again and once more bought half the bucket. So they sold out everything before noon. Ye Xiaoxian put the empty bucket, bowl and spoon near the chubby shopkeepers stall and asked him to look after them. Then she suggested to Li Hongmei, Ma, Baozhu, its still early. Lets go around and have a look in town. And I want to buy some ingredients for making pancakes. If they turn up to be delicious, we can sell pancakes with the cold jelly tomorrow. Little Ye, you want to sell pancakes as well? asked Li Hongmei in surprise. Chapter 34 - Let’s All Put On New Clothes

Chapter 34:Lets All Put On New Clothes

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Yes and we may have to start to sell something else, said Ye Xiaoxian, Its still summer so our cold jelly are a hit but it must not sell well when summer has passed. As we have many regr customers now, wed better promote our pancakes at an early stage and maintain our poprity. It took quite a while for Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu to digest what Ye Xiaoxian said but after they understood it, they could not help but feel this was such a good idea. After a while Li Hongmei again asked with puzzle, But there are so many pancake stalls in town already. Can we outss them? And I never saw you make pancakes before, right? Ye Xiaoxian smiled, Ma, I may be yet to make it, but I have tasted it. We have tried different pancakes sold here several times. I know which one is good and which is bad. I can also tell what kind of ingredients they use. I can improve the vour as well and try my best to make them tastier than the pancakes sold by others. Do you think you can make it as tasty as the one sold in front of the government office? Certainly. I can also make my pancakes with different styles in case somee up and use us of being a rival of them, said Ye Xiaoxian confidently. But Li Hongmei thought that Ye Xiaoxian was being too confident that she just assumed it as a matter of course. Though Ye Xiaoxian made really delicious dishes recently, Li Hongmei found making pancakes very hard. Qinghe was a vige in South China and people here were not very good at making flour-rted food and most of those pancakes sellers were northerners. ... When they sauntered around the town that day, the most excited one among them was Xiao Baozhu. They only came to Qinghe for a handful of times long time ago when her pa was still alive. Her pa was not in good health and handicapped as well so they didnt get much time to wander around; moreover, they were too broke to buy anything back then. When Xiao Baozhu was young, she went to the town and saw various of snacks and goodies and girls in colourful clothes and she admired and envied them very much. She wanted to buy some new clothes this time as well. When they were selling cold jelly before, she looked rather self-conscious because her clothes were not only too small for her but with patches all over. She was afraid of being despised but those customers who came to buy cold jelly. While they were wandering, Ye Xiaoxian suddenly pointed at a cloth shop beside. Ma, Baozhu, lets take a look inside. Little Ye, do you want to buy some clothes? asked Li Hongmei. Something urred to her and she then said again, Little Ye, you do need to buy some clothes. You were after all a newly-married bride, but I, as your mother-inw, didnt prepare anything for you. s, youve made all the money and you deserve to buy some cloths and make some outfits. Ye Xiaoxian only smiled. Ma, if I buy something, Ill buy one for each of us. Lets go and have a look inside and then talk. In this era, there were few shops selling ready-made clothes. Generally, people always bought cloths and go home to make clothes themselves. Once Ye Xiaoxian went in, sheid her eyes upon a light yellow cloth. This kind of cloth was made of cotton and linen which was considered as coarse material and much cheaper than silk. Few vige girls wore silk as only rich people could afford it. Besides, clothes made of cotton and linen were actually morefortable and breathable to wear. Apart from that they may be easy to be wrinkled, there were no other ws and they were handy to wear while working. Ma, Baozhu,e and choose some as well. Lets get the one you fancy and make clothes back home. And, and for me, too? asked Baozhu surprisedly. In this family, she was the one who was inclined to be ignored. At times, she had no choice but work in silence and was thest one who got a chance to enjoy something good. Chapter 35 - Your Daughter-in-law Must Be Really Happy.

Chapter 35: Your Daughter-inw Must Be Really Happy.

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK As I said, if I buy something, Ill buy one for each of us. We have sold two hundred bowls of cold jelly today. Apart from the cost, there were still 300 coins left, enough for each of us buying a cloth. Ma,e and choose one each for Baoshan and Baofeng as well. Then, then were going to spend all the money weve made today, arent we? asked Xiao Baozhu. But Ye Xiaoxian said, We might as well earn it back after we spend them all. You have to earn money to make money, not just by saving them. Lets all get up earlier tomorrow. Ma and Baozhu, you make the cold jelly and Im going to make the pancakes. Oh, no wonder you taught Baozhu so carefully of how to make the cold jelly this morning. It turns out that you are trying to make her master this craft! said Li Hongmei who was suddenly enlightened. Xiao Baozhu felt somewhat ashamed when she heard this. She thought Ye Xiaoxian was trying to ck off by teaching her how to make cold jelly but she didnt expect that Ye Xiaoxian not only tried to teach her a craft but was going to buy new clothes for her. Li Hongmei had been choosing cloths for some time and suddenly said, Hey, little Ye, though I can choose cloths for Baofeng but how am I going to choose one for Baoshan? Baoshan is your husband and you should do this job, right? Ye Xiaoxian. ... The manager of the cloth shop looked not bothered when Ye Xiaoxian and the other two came in since they looked so shabby indeed. He then listened to what they were talking about and heard that they were going to buy several cloths and in this case, he began to be hospitable. Youngdy, are you going to choose cloths for your husband? I have quite a few for young misters like this light blue one. Or this yellow one, which matches the one you just chose for yourself. The manager was beaming with joy. Ye Xiaoxian didnt enjoy his idea at all so she chose the light blue one. The manager asked again, And what is your misters height? And how big is he? Ill have a rough calction of the cloths he needs. ... Ye Xiaoxian recalled the strapped figure of Xiao Baoshan and her heart fluttered all of a sudden. She then told herself, Ye Xiaoxian, stop those foolish reflections. Youre not allowed to imagine anything to do with Xiao Baoshan. Hes roughly that tall and that wide, said Ye Xiaoxian. The manager said in surprise, Then your mister is really tall. You seldom find such big men in this town. Ye Xiaoxian didnt say anything but Li Hongmei chipped in, Youre right there. My son had been in army before. He is a big guy and his muscles are like, so hard. He is as strong as an ox. Then your daughter-inw must be really happy. Of course, ha-ha... Ye Xiaoxian. ... ... When they got out of the cloth shop, they went to buy some white flour, some walnuts, groundnut kernels, sesame, salt, oil and pork etc. Li Hongmei was surprised. Little Ye, why did you buy so much stuff? As were doing business, we have to at least make a hundred pancakes to sell. Li Hongmei thought, Do you guarantee that you can sell all of these in one day? But she saw that Ye Xiaoxian was being all confident and rxed, Li Hongmei dared not speak too much. Ye Xiaoxian had her own thoughts after all and it was she who led them to make money by selling cold jelly so Li Hongmei thought that she had better listen to little Ye in this family. Li Hongmei dared not put it boldly but Xiao Baozhu was not afraid so she said openly, Sister-inw. How about you making some pancakes for us tonight and let us try them first to see if theyre tasty or not? No problem. We dont have to cook other dishes tonight. Lets just make some pancakes with porridge for dinner. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Chapter 36 - Best-Smelling Pancakes

Chapter 36: Best-Smelling Pancakes

Ye Xiaoxian put her hand to making pancakes without dy. After she had done making the dough, she squashed walnuts and groundnut kernels. She then grounded the pork and stir-fried the sesame. She meant to make pancakes but due to the limited conditions, she decided to make tbread instead. The difference between pancakes and tbread is that the former is baked in an oven, and thetter can be baked directly on the iron pan. Pancakes for Ye Xiaoxian were like ABCs. The pancakes she was going to make were the famous snacks in a certain province that she ever learned just after attending the chef training. Tourists would line up to buy this kind of tbread when they went there traveling. She has made them several times when she was craving for some, and the one she made tasted very simr to the snack sold in the traveling spot. When the sun went down, Ye Xiaoxians dough was ready, and she went to make a fire. In this family they used iron wok and burned dry firewood, which would be a great test of her skills, so Ye Xiaoxian didnt ask Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu to help her. She was minding the duration and degree of heating on her own. Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu were only responsible for kneading the dough into small dough of even size, then wrapping the stuffing Ye Xiaoxian had prepared into the dough, and rolling it into pie-size dough of the same size with a rolling pin. After the wok had been heated to dry up, Ye Xiaoxian poured several spoons of oil in it. It made Li Hongmeis heart ache since she never had the nerve to pour too much oil in dishes before they lived separately yet little Ye used a whole days portion once. Ye Xiaoxian poured oil as if pouring water and when the oil was heated in the wok, she then put the pie-size dough in the wok each by each. With a sound of squeaking, here floated many oil fizz on the surface of the pie-size dough. Ye Xiaoxian didnt care about the oil fizz but flipped the pie-size dough quickly. Soon the pie-size dough turned into tbread with its two sides fried into golden yellow. The fragrant smell of the tbread came out again. As there was minced meat in the tbread, the smell of the tbread mixed with the fragrance of the dough, which made Li Hongmeis mouth watering. When Ye Xiaoxian got all the tbread ready, Xiao Baoshan arrived home as well. He smelled the fragrance of the tbread as soon as he came back. He couldnt help rubbing his belly, finding the scent rather familiar, like the dish he used to have in army. Dinner is ready. Come and help to fill your bowls with porridge! Ye Xiaoxian baked a total of ten tbread tonight, two for each, with rice porridge. A simple and delicious dinner was ready Ma, have a taste. How does it tastepared with the one in the front of the government office? asked Ye Xiaoxian smilingly. The tbread was still scalding hot. Li Hongmei took one, blowing air on it as well as taking a quick bite. When she chewed it, she suddenly opened her eyes wide melodramatically and kept nodding, Oh, its amazing, amazing. Yours is tbread alright but it tastes far better than the one they sell. It smells great and tastes crispy. Xiao Baoshan also carried one tbread with his chopsticks and took a bite. The edge of the tbread was crispy, making a squeaking noise when he ate it which sounded even familiar like the one he ate before. He couldnt help but ask Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, how do you know to make such tbread? Ie up with it myself, said Ye Xiaoxian, Baoshan, why do you ask? Have you had the simr stuff anywhere else before? Xiao Baoshan nodded, I had simr ones in the army. The whole battalion where I was ate tbread and they tasted simr to yours but with less sesame and...not as meaty as this. It turned out to be like this. Ye Xiaoxian suddenly recalled why this tbread was so famous in the local area was because of a local legend: in a certain Dynasty, there was an invasion of foreign enemies in the local area and there was ack of food in the military camp. Later, a goddess called Empyrean Fairy came down and brought them the tbread, so it has been prevailing since then. Ye Xiaoxian used to think this legend was a pile of nonsense but now that she was in the ancient times, she suddenly found the legend a beautiful fantasy and the tbread represented a certain spirit. Chapter 37 - Like A Couple Of Early Birds Chapter 37: Like A Couple Of Early Birds Proofread by ire.KK Little Ye, I can sense something. Maybe the tbread will sell even better than the cold jelly cause they are really delicious. Just we have to get up early in the morning cause most of people eat tbread as breakfast. Li Hongmei reminded Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian said, I know, Ma. Lets go to town in two groups. Ill go there to sell tbread first. You, Baozhu and Baoshan can catch up a bitter. Xiao Baoshan asked voluntarily, Will it be too much hard work for you? Dont mention it. The earlier we get them all sold, the earlier we can go home and rest. Ye smiled, Whats more, if we dont work harder, how can we afford to buy new clothes? Baoshan, little Ye went to a cloth shop to make new clothes for you today. The manager said that it wont take ten days to get it done. By then, all of us can wear new clothes, said Li Hongmei excitedly. Xiao Baofeng hasnt known about the new clothes. He ate his tbread while asking happily, For real? We will all have new clothes to wear? Everyone has new clothes! Then they wontugh at me back in school. Xiao Baofeng danced with joy. X BZ thought the same thing, Then I wont beughed at by Dahua and others in the vige. Everyone was immersed in a jubnt mood, and Xiao Baoshan meanwhile cast a profound nce at Ye Xiaoxian. ...Ye Xiaoxian got up early before sunrise in order to knead dough and making stuffing. She didnt wake up anyone else but lit up a candle and got herself busy in the kitchen. It resembled to the days when she just got her chef certificate. She was just an assistant with extremely poor wages and the dishes she could cook were limited kinds. In order to be promoted to a proper chef, she always started to work early and knocked offte to study dishes, cuisine and ingredients. Of course she was still required to study dishes when she became a chef, she was more of less at leisure while in work. Ye Xiaoxian was busy preparing food and meanwhile, a tall and sturdy figure dashed in which fluttered the candle light. She raised her head, looked over and found Xiao Baoshan. The light was dim in the kitchen which made his expression look feeble. Howe you are here? asked Ye Xiaoxian. I heard some noise so I came over to have a look. Why did you get up so early? asked him. Im here to make tbread. I get to go early in the town to sell them, said Ye Xiaoxian while kneading the dough. Let me help you. Xiao Baoshan then walked to Ye Xiaoxian. Do you know how? I had done something simr in the camp. The tbread you cookedst night tasted simr to what I had in the military camp so I think I know how. Xiao Baoshan then started to knead the dough like what Ye Xiaoxian just did. His fingers were lithe and his actions were nimble and it took no time before his wide palms kneaded the dough into a ball-size. And he stood very close to her which made her wrapped in his breath. In such a morning and such a cramped kitchen, there were only them two staying here which looked very much like a couple of early birds. But when Ye Xiaoxian recalled the girl who delivered steamed buns for him that day, she forced to stop her imagination. You knead the dough and Ill make the fire, said Ye Xiaoxian. She didnt want to stay with him for so long in case she couldnt curb her feelings towards him. ... Ye Xiaoxian arrived in town first that day. She was here very early and only after she arrived did other stores begin to open. As she had been selling cold jelly for days at this same ce, all the others know her. Seeing that she began to sell tbread instead of cold jelly today, they all looked very curious. Youngdy, why dont you sell cold jelly today and why are you here alone? Where is your mother-inw? asked by the chubby manager beside. Theyll join meter, said Ye Xiaoxian, Manager, how about having some of our tbread? With meat and sesame in it, it tastes very nice. Chapter 38 - Cooking For Milady Chapter 38: Cooking For Mdy Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK The chubby manger was a foodie and he had tried various of tbread and pancakes in town. Most of them were simply added spring onions and eggs and it was the first time that he saw a tbread with so many ingredients in it. This tbread was fried with golden-yellow on both sides which looked crispy and nice; plus, he had already tried Ye Xiaoxians cold jelly, so he judged that the taste of this tbread must not be bad, so he bought two of them. Once he tried, he raised his thumb and bought five more, saying that he would take them away back home for his wife and children. All the shopkeepers saw the chubby manager enjoy the tbread; besides, it was just about time to eat breakfast and as the in-town residents were used to buying something outside and taking them back home as breakfast, so in this case, there were several othersing over and buying the tbread. This tbread is nice. Its actually meaty. Thats how you do business! The sesames are great too. They taste great and crispy. ... Not before long, Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu hade as well. Their business grew better after Li Hongmei came as she knew how to taut her goods and showed passion about it. Every time she spotted a passerby, she would greet them, calling them toe over and buy tbread and cold jelly and she didnt care even if she was rejected. Though some of them were just here to buy cold jelly, Li Hongmei would promote their tbread anyways. As she was so hospitable, others would feel the urge of not turning her down and it was just another two coins so they might as well buy a tbread. With the help of someone like Li Hongmei, Ye Xiaoxian felt that she could just concentrate on cooking nice food and leave promotion and stuff to Li Hongmei. It was approaching to midday when the housekeeper of the wealthy family came over again. The housekeeper was in his forties. Although his clothes were also made of coarse cloth, they were neat and tidy. A jade pendant was tied on his belt, which showed that the master he worked for had a well-off family background. Huh, you even sell tbread today? You made this yourselves? asked the housekeeper. Yes, yes. My daughter-inw made them all and she was very good at cooking. Do you care for trying one? Ill sell it for free if it isnt tasty. Li Hongmei wrapped one quickly with oil paper and passed it to him. The housekeeper didnt refuse but took it directly to his mouth. He didnt show much emotion at the beginning but the more he bit, the more he felt satisfied and atst he took several big bites and finished it all. What do you think? asked Li Hongmei. Nice! the housekeeper looked at Ye Xiaoxian, Youngdy, have you learned this skill somewhere else before? Ye Xiaoxian smiled and replied, I havent really. I just taught myself and cooked randomly. ... Apart from cold jelly and tbread, what else can you cook? asked the housekeeper again, like porridges or dishes? Certainly! replied Ye Xiaoxian. The housekeeper then stopped asking and just bought half bucket of the cold jelly as usual with ten-something tbread and left. Ye Xiaoxian didnt take it to heart but she did not expect that just at noon, the housekeeper came back again in a high spirit. The housekeeper looked more excited than usual. Youngdy, may I trouble you with something? Trouble? asked Ye Xiaoxian confusedly. The housekeeper was still excited and said, Well, my youngdy is very picky about food, especially recently when she is not in good health and doesnt want to eat anything. She only eats your cold jelly and she almost lives on your cold jelly recently, but one cant rely on eating cold jelly, can she? Our master tries his best to let her eat food and have hired quite a few chefs, but she just refused to eat anything. The housekeeper sighed. What a coincidence. I just took some of your tbread and coaxed her to take a bite but she actually ate the whole thing so my master was thinking could it be that she only eats what you cook. So Im here to invite you to go to our house to cook a meal for mdy. If you can make mdy eat, youll be heavily rewarded. Well... Ye Xiaoxian listened curiously and exchanged nces with Li Hongmei. Chapter 39 - Miss Liu

Chapter 39: Miss Liu

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK The housekeeper saw their expressions. Youngdy, are you afraid of me cheating you? My master is Lord Liu in this town. Every passerby knows his name and my name is Liu as well. You can call me Housekeeper Liu. If you still worry about it, we can go to the government office to make a record. Should any ident happen to you when youre in our house, well take the full responsibility. Ye Xiaoxian replied in a regret tone, I didnt mean this. Im just worried that...what if your youngdy doesnt like what I cook? ...You wont know it until you try, will you? Even if she ends up not eating what you cook, our master will pay you with a reimbursement fee which is one tael of silver. One tael of silver was a thousand copper coins, amounting to five hundred bowls of cold jelly they sell. For the sake of money, Ye Xiaoxian nodded right away. Ye Xiaoxian didnt go to the government office to make a record. Following her gut instinct, she somehow could tell that the Housekeeper Liu wouldnt cheat her. She followed Housekeeper Liu to walk through several streets and they soon reached a big house which were built with ck tiles and bricks with two little stone lions in front of the gate. In this era, a lord is andlord orndowner. They are not officials but even richer than the county magistrate. A lord has fields and farnds and one can also take part in discussing the county affairs. They are considered as high-ss people in local area. That was why Lord Liu could afford paying her one tael of silver. When they entered the big house and walked across a courtyard and a passage, they reached a small courtyard. The courtyard was quiet and elegant. There were many precious flowers and nts in it. It was summer now so all the rooms in the courtyard were open. There were three or four servant girls busy around. Ye Xiaoxian stared at this delicate courtyard and an idea popped up in her mind. If only I could have such a small courtyard and then Xiao Baoshan and I... Puke, stop imagining and this kind of thing wont happen. Still, to own such a courtyard could be her top ambition in this era. No matter in which dynasty, owning a house is always a household pleasure formon people. Young Mrs. Xiao, Mdy lives in the one of the middle. This way please and Auntie Wong will show you the way. Housekeeper Liu showed Ye Xiaoxian the way. In ancient times it was strict that males and females should keep certain distance. In this case Housekeeper Liu could not enter adys boudoir, so Ye Xiaoxian was led by a forty-something-year-old nanny into the room. This room was decorated very antique which was spacious with mahogany furniture fitted in the room. Deep inside was a girl half lying in bed reading. Mdy, Housekeeper Liu brought the cook who made the cold jelly, said Auntie Wong reverently. Miss Liu then put down her bookzily, turned around to Ye Xiaoxian listlessly, and said, It turns out to be a young girl? Yes, the tbread you had for lunch is also made by her, said Auntie Wong. Miss Liu looked like fifteen or sixteen years old. Being sallow and skinny, her height was about five feet three inches. She weighed at most eighty something pounds. The blue veins on her hands were visible and she looked rather horrible. You made all the cold jelly and tbread? asked Miss Liu feebly. As she was born with a silver spoon, she gave out an air of pride. Yes, I made them, replied Ye Xiaoxian, May I ask what kind of food Mdy might like and I will cook them for Mdy. Ye Xiaoxian imitated the tone that characters in TV series about ancient time might sound. Miss Liu nced at Ye Xiaoxian. Dont ask me. If I know what I feel like, what do I need you to cook for? Just do it in your way and serve them to me when they are ready. Maybe the youngdy had been starving for too long and she looked very shorted-tempered and touchy. Seeing this Auntie Wong hurried to show Ye Xiaoxian out and let herdyship take a rest. After they left the room, Housekeeper Wong took over Ye Xiaoxian again. Ye Xiaoxian stopped Housekeeper Liu and asked him, Housekeeper Liu, your youngdy is really thin. Have you not asked doctors toe over to diagnose her? If its a health problem, maybe you should get your youngdy treated. Chapter 40 - Food Therapy Chapter 40: Food Therapy Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Housekeeper Liu sighed and continued reminiscently. She has seen all the renowned doctors in the provincial capital. They said it was not caused by a physical condition but theres something in her heart. Something in her heart? Ye Xiaoxian didnt understand, does this Miss Liu want to starve herself of food till death? One year ago, Miss has been infatuated with a mister but her affection towards him turned out be to unrequited as that mister had already had someone in his heart. Miss has been denying food and tea ever since that happened. Especially in recent days, she is unable to eat anything apart from your cold jelly and tbread. Now Ye Xiaoxian had figured it out that Miss Lius trouble should be anorexia caused by lovesickness. When she was taught to be a chef in the modern era, one of the lectures was targeting patients who were suffering anorexia. There are several types of anorexia. One is an obsessive desire to lose weight by refusing to eat, one is lovesickness and the other is too much pressure in life. Though such patients are preferably required to be treated by professional therapists, they can be cured if the food are really inviting. As Miss Lius eating disorder was caused by lovesickness, Ye Xiaoxian had alreadye up with a solution. Housekeeper Liu, I need some cooking ingredients and please help me to purchase them. Ye Xiaoxian, like a doctor, made a list for Housekeeper Liu, containing eggs, herbs, milk, apples, ribs, lemons, etc. Ye Xiaoxian had been getting her hand full in Lord Lius kitchen the whole afternoon. Lord Lius kitchen was big and there were two long-termed employed cooks and two assistant cooks but now they all became Ye Xiaoxians assistants. Ye Xiaoxian was young, at most fifteen or sixteen years old while all of the personnel there were older than her. They turned their nose up at Ye Xiaoxian when she just came into the kitchen. Had Housekeeper Liu not here, they would not even listen to her. However, when Ye Xiaoxian picked up the kitchen knife and chopped an apple into more than ten chunks in a split moment, they were all stunned. Ye Xiaoxian chuckledcently in her mind. This is just childs y. You havent seen when I carved tofu into a flower. When they finished their stunning, Ye Xiaoxian started tomand them to do their jobs. This chef, please help me to smash these herbs to juice. This chef, please help me to beat the eggs and make them paste-like. Like this, beat them with three chopsticks and dont stop. This...never mind, I dont know how to address you anyway. Just help me to squeeze the juice out of all the apples here. What Ye Xiaoxian asked them to do were actually very hard. None of them did it before in their daily work so they had no idea what Ye Xiaoxian was going to cook. But she was invited by Housekeeper Liu so they couldnt refuse what she asked. Seeing that the crew had been on the run, Ye Xiaoxian started to make cream. She was going to make a steamed lemon and herb voured cake with a minty and herby apple juice. Smelling herbs is in help of decreasing sadness. Its fragrance helps keep a joyful mood and it especially benefits depressed people. Eating apple helps maintain good mental health and sleep peacefully. It tastes a tiny bit sour which is appetizing and delicious. Lemon servers to be stimting the appetitepletely. All the these ingredients are food serving the purpose of making the eater happy. The chef who was asked to beat the egg whites thought that Ye Xiaoxian was messing with him as no one had beaten eggs like that before. Butter when he noticed that the tips of egg whites started to curl and then became foamy, he found it rather fascinating but still didnt know how it worked. His armed was so sore that almost broken when Ye Xiaoxian came and check. Atst she said, Its okay now. thank you. Ye Xiaoxian thought, You wouldnt need to do this manually but that you didnt have egg beaters in this era. Chapter 41 - Five Hundred Coins Per Day

Chapter 41: Five Hundred Coins Per Day

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK As the egg white were done, Ye Xiaoxian then started to knead cake dough and slowly add lemon juice and apple mince in it. It was a shame that they had no oven in this era so Ye Xiaoxian had to make a steamed cake like a rice cooker cake in the modern times. When the cake was done, Ye Xiaoxian spread the fresh cream on it and decorated it with strawberry-like raspberries. Then a beautiful, appetizing and romantic steamed lemon and herb voured cake was done. Once the cake was done, Ye Xiaoxian made the apple juice and cooked another two savoury dishes. One was lemon zest sweet ribs and the other was sweet and sour scrambled eggs. Both of them were appetizing and went well with rice. Ye Xiaoxian did not know which dish would gain Miss Lius appetite but she felt that she had done her best. In the yard, there were rockery stones and a small pool with several lotus flowers in full bloom. Ye Xiaoxian once again thought, When I make more money in the future, I must buy a house with such a courtyard and nt lotus flowers in it. Id like to nt a grape tree as well, and in summer Ill rx under its shade and enjoy the coolness... After daydreaming for a while, Ye Xiaoxian saw Nanny Wonge out. Nanny Wong was trotting to them and her face was beaming. Housekeeper Liu, Housekeeper Liu. Mdy...Mdy has eaten a lot. Mdy has eaten more than half of each dish and she only stopped eating when she was too full. Ah, this youngdy is really capable. Its been a while since I saw Mdy have such a good appetite. Nanny Wong was so excited that her eyes shore with tears. Housekeeper Liu was the same too. He wiped his tears and realized that he was a bit too emotional so he exined to Ye Xiaoxian, Ive been looking after Mdy since she was a kid and she was like my own daughter. She is finally willing to eat food and I, I...am rest assured now. Ye Xiaoxian only smiled faintly. In her previous life, she had been preparing food for two patients with anorexia and the condition of those two were even more grave than Miss Lius. They were cured by her food therapy in the end so Ye Xiaoxian had the confidence which is also the reason that she came here with Housekeeper Liu. How is Miss now? asked Housekeeper Liu. Miss said she was so full that she needed to lie down for a while. Nanny Wongughed with tear in her eyes. Then you, you look after Mdy and Ill take Mrs. Xiao to see master! ... Ye Xiaoxian was brought to Lord Liu in the blink of an eye. Lord Liu lived in the east wing of this big house. He was in his fifties, bearing a schrship temperament and looked like he had been reading a lot. Hearing that his daughter started to eat food, he looked very emotional as well and then asked Ye Xiaoxian politely to sit down. Youngdy, who taught you all these cooking skills? asked Lord Liu. I didnt learn it from others but taught myself, replied Ye Xiaoxian. Youre so gifted. What are you making for a living? asked Lord Liu again. Ye Xiaoxian replied honestly, Were doing some small business in the east street of the town. We sell cold jelly and tbread. When I make more money, Ill rent a store in the town and sell snacks. Any chance that you are avable to cook dishes for my daughter tomorrow? Lord Liu is waiting with bated breath and added again, You may not know that Ive had seven sons before my youngest daughter was born. She was really the apple of my eye and I cherished her so much. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. I have to mind my family business and I live in Daliang Vige which is very far from here. In fact she was just simply exining her difficulties to Lord Liu but he thought that Ye Xiaoxian was demanding for a price. But Lord Liu only had one dearest daughter so he said right away, Right, when youe to cook food for my daughter, Ill pay your five coins per day if she eats any. If she doesnt eat anything you cook, Ill still pay your too hundred coins. What do you think? Five hundred coins per day? ... If Miss Liu ate her food everyday, she would be paid fifteen taels of silver a month. With that amount of money, she was able to renovate their house in the vige. Ye Xiaoxian consented without hesitation. Chapter 42 - He Came to Pick Her up

Chapter 42: He Came to Pick Her up

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK The sun had almost set when Ye Xiaoxian came out from Lord Lius. When she just stepped out of the gate, surprisingly, she saw Xiao Baoshan stand outside. He was standing out of the gate and his face with chiseled features was full of anxiety but once he saw Ye Xiaoxianing out, his knitted eyebrows loosened up. What are you doing here? asked Ye Xiaoxian puzzledly. Ma told me that Lord Lius housekeeper had taken you away and let me have a look. If you didnte out before the sunset, I would... What would you do? asked Ye Xiaoxian smilingly. I would probably burst into the gate. Xiao Baoshan wore a feeble smile. Really? For me? There are so many guards in Lord Lius house and youre not afraid of getting hit? Ye Xiaoxian teased him. Xiao Baoshan didnt answer but asked, Were you doing okay there? Was everything alright? Ma let you ask me this as well? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan paused in a daze first but then nodded. As expected. ... Ye Xiaoxian was somehow upset all of a sudden and then said sulkily, I was perfectly alright there just now. Couldnt be better. She then strode away. Xiao Baoshan caught her up right. ... What? Five hundred coins per day? Li Hongmeis jaw almost fell off out of surprise when she heard the price. Why on earth does Lord Lius youngest miss not eat anything? In my opinion, they must eat meat, fish and every kind of good meal everyday! I dont understand why there are some people in the world dont like eating! Li Hongmei felt so puzzled. Xiao Baozhu felt shocked as well. If only they could give out the food she didnt eat to us. She eats no meat or rice. what a waste of food. Thats right! echoed Xiao Baofeng. Only Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian didnt speak aloud their opinions. Both of them seemed to have meet such people and they didnt it so strange. So little Ye, did you say yes to them? asked Li Hongmei again. I have to agree. From tomorrow on, Ill get up early every day to bake tbread. Baozhu and ma, you are responsible for making cold jelly. Didnt I get a tale of silver already today? Ill buy a cart tomorrow with that, and we dont have to carry buckets to the town every day. If we have more moneyter on, lets buy an ox and let the ox pull the car, or we may even rent a house in the suburb of the town. Then we wont have to walk so far to sell things every day! Ye Xiaoxian shared her ns of the future. Li Hongmei and others were stunned once more hearing what Ye Xiaoxian said. They did not dare to imagine such things in the past but Ye Xiaoxian not only dared to imagine but dared to act. This time, Xiao Baoshan was once again the first one to stand up for Ye Xiaoxian, I think little Yes idea is very good. Although its our home here, we have a long history of grudges with uncles and aunties. Conflicts cant be avoided if we keep living here. Once we have enough money and find a suitable ce, we can move out, or... buy a new house somewhere else. Ye Xiaoxian stared at Xiao Baoshan confusedly. She just wondered how strange that Xiao Baoshan and herself happened to hold the same view, but was interpreted by Xiao Baoshan as another meaning. He added in time, I will do my best to make money as well. I cant let you shoulder all the burden of this. Seeing this, Li Hongmei couldnt help her happiness. Look at you. You must have been discussing over it, havent you? You must have chatted with each other behind my back, right? You are alright married and dont hide it away from your ma. Whats the big deal? Ye Xiaoxian. ... Chapter 43 - Not A Pig’s Hair for You

Chapter 43: Not A Pigs Hair for You

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK That night, the second household were having a pork leg. Baoshan brought the pork leg home which was also bought from his friend. A whole pork leg which weighed around 2.2 pounds. Li Hongmei was cooking while Xiao Baofeng and Xiao Baozhu were practicing writing Chinese characters and naturally Ye Xiaoxian was going to cook dishes. She was about to pick up the pork leg and clean it up when Xiao Baoshan took it over ahead of her. He scalded the fine hairs off the pork leg with fire, scraping them off, then cleaned it and finally chopped them into chunks before they handed them to Ye Xiaoxian. He said, Youre skilled in cooking so thank you for all your efforts. Dont mention it, Ye Xiaoxian smiled. She took the chopped pork leg and it didnt take an hour before they had done the braised pork leg. ... The second household was having juicy pork leg while Wong Mudan was making a big fuss again at the side of Old Mr. Xiao. Pa, do you know that the second household is having pork leg tonight. I was just seeing that Baoshan was dealing with the pork leg. Lord, the pork leg was huge and fat. It looks just fine. What? Theyre having pork leg? Old Mr. Xiao was opening his eyes wide. Different from pigs offal, a pork leg is even dearer than fat pork. Only a well-off family can afford it. Old Mr. Xiaos household would have pork legs several times a month because his elder and third sons were working as attendants in the government office and they had fixed wages. Ive seen it clearly this time, so pa, dont wrong me this time. Third Sister-inw has seen it too. Ju, right? Chen Ju was not quite that straightforward as Wong Mudan but she was oily-tongued as well and was good at stirring up troubles. So she nodded. Thats right, pa. I saw it too. I remembered that the second household has promised that theyll share every goodies they have with you. But howe they only remembered to share pigs offal with you but not pork legs? Old Mr. Xiao was losing his temper and decided to go and ask the second household what was going on. Still, he didnt forget to appropriate all the minced pork on the table to himself, in case all the meat would be gone after he came back. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju was enraged by Old Mr. Xiaos behaviour. Youre already so old and cant you eat a less bit of meat? There are several kids who are in need of meat to grow properly staring at the scattered minced pork but they cant even take one bite. How unprecedentedly selfish this grandpa is. Old Mr. Xiao was about to get up when Xiao Baofeng suddenly came over carrying a bowl of pork leg. There were five or six chunks in the bowl which were cooked well through and looked juicy, and with some white sesame sprinkled on them, they looked very inviting. Grandpa, this is for you! Xiao Baofeng poured everything into the bowl in front of Old Mr. Xiao and in the blink of an eye he walked away. It always freaked Xiao Baoshan out to have meals with the elder and third households. He had to in the past but now that it was rare that he didnt have to eat together, of course he had to slip away immediately. There are only several chunks, arent they? They are not even enough for everyone each... Chen Ju hadnt finished her sentence but became silent. The reason was that she saw Old Mr. Xiao was cramming all the pork leg chunks into his own bowl and started to eat it without a word. He actually wanted to eat all the pork leg chunks alone! Pa... Wang Mudan tried to remind Old Mr. Xiao in a low voice. But Old Mr. Xiao seemed not to hear anything as if he was sealed in a magic enchantment and separately from the whole world. All the kids were staring at the pork leg chunks in a miserable way but their grandpa pretended not to see it and ate one and two and three...The grandpa swallowed all the six chunks into his stomach. After he finished eating, Old Mr. Xiao wiped his mouth with his sleeves, putting down his bowl and returned his room. And Wong Mudan and Chen Ju exchanged nce with each other and became more furious. They didnt expect that their pa was so selfish. They were thinking to have a try of the second households cookery but they didnt even get a pigs hair in the end. Chapter 44 - Diving in the River

Chapter 44: Diving in the River

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK After dinner, the day has been dark. Xiao Baozhu washed the bowls and came back to Li Hongmei. Ma, its sticky all over me and I stink with sweat. I want to wash up in the river. Do you want to go with me? There was a small river at the entrance of the vige. After dark, viges would go to the river to take a bath. There were both men and women, but men and women would naturally divide themselves into two groups, and one group bathed in the upstream and the other were in the downstream. Men could bathe with their top naked while women were wearing clothes. Women would quietly wipe themselves with towels under the water when nobody noticed,ing home in wet clothes and changed into another dry outfit. That was basically what a bath in the river meant to them. Though it sounded simple, it was much better than wiping themselves in their rooms. All households carried river water back home these days and they couldnt use too much water so they at most fetched a basin of water to wipe their body, which was not a bath in the slightest. Hearing that Baozhu was going to take a bath, Ye Xiaoxian said excitedly, Baozhu, Im going together. I want to wash up too. They had been busy for a whole day and they were soaked with sweat. Just thinking about the cool river water made Ye Xiaoxian thrilled. She was rather to dive into the river and washed herself from in and out, head to toe. Li Hongmei wanted to go too so she said, Good. Lets go together. ... The whole family went to the river bank with the dim light of the dark. Since it was still summer, there were many peopleing to bathe in the river. They did not want to cause any gossip among the vigers, so Xiao Baoshan and Xiao Baofeng went to the downstream of the river and the three women went to the to upstream which was over ten metres far from the downstream. The river was shallow and where they chose the rivery smoothly. The depth of water only reached to their chest even in the deepest spot. Ye Xiaoxian sank her whole body into the water. After she was wrapped with the cool river water, she felt it was so refreshing and pleasant. She then wore down her hair directly and washed it too. Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu buried their body under the water. They were not able to swim so they could only stay in the water and enjoy the bath time. Ye Xiaoxian could swim and she always went to swimming in the modern times. Swimming helps one get fit and be in shape. She couldnt resist the lure of swimming after she finished washing her hair. Ma, look at Sister-inw! She knows swimming! Xiao Baozhu pointed at the swimming Ye Xiaoxian. Ah, youre right! Shes doing really nice! said Li Hongmei. Li Hongmei was full of admiration for Ye Xiaoxian. She found her Little Ye being skilled of everything and she was almost going to treat Ye Xiaoxian as a goddess. Li Hongmei shouted to Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, swim a bit far and lets see how far you can reach. Ye Xiaoxian would like to swim far as she wanted to make the most of it and she swarm out several metres away before she was aware. ... She was almost reaching where Xiao Baoshan bathed and she paused hurriedly, beginning to swim back. But when she just dived again into the water and started to move her arms, a slippery thingy touched her hand which wriggled slightly in her hand. Snake! Though Ye Xiaoxian was a chef, she feared snakes the most. She never dared to cook food like snake soups and she always asked other chefs to do such things for her. At that moment, she jumped out of the water regardless of anything else. She paddled in the water, trying to get to the bank and was afraid of that the snake would rush into her and wind on her body. In panic, Ye Xiaoxian suddenly found a person standing in front of her. At that time, she could not spare any time to see who this person was. She just rushed to the person, and then tightly wrapped around him like a sloth. Chapter 45 - Stealing Pork Leg

Chapter 45: Stealing Pork Leg

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Snake! Snake! she cried flurriedly with her voice trembling. Where is the snake? the person said. His voice is low and coarse. It actually Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian was somehow calmed down once she heard his voice. But I touched...touched it just now! said Ye Xiaoxian. This one, you mean? Under the moonlight, Xiao Baoshan hold a round seaweed in his hand. But it just moved! Ye Xiaoxian still held Xiao Baoshan with loosening her hands. Its because the water flow makes it move! exined Xiao Baoshan. Is it... If you dont believe me, feel it yourself and see does it feel the same as the one you touched? Ye Xiaoxian spared one hand to touch that seaweed which felt like kelp, very slippery. It felt indeed like the snake she just touched. It turned out that she was too sensitive. When her hearted stopped thumping, Ye Xiaoxian then found herself hold Xiao Baoshan really tight with one hand holding his neck and her legs squeezing in his hips and she felt that his chest was so firm. Uh...Ye Xiaoxian blushed right away, let him go hurriedly and said, Then, then Ill go back first! Xiao Baoshan made a mhmm noise. Ye Xiaoxian was walking in the water swiftly but the water had reached her chest so she couldnt walk too fast. She tried to walked a few steps but she was almost just treading water, so she dived in again to swim back. She was in the downstream of the river but the river water, not like the still water in swimming water, has resistance force and after she swam for a while, she thought that she had swarm far but when she turned around, she found Xiao Baoshan still standing nearby. He was still standing under the moonlight and staring at her. Ye Xiaoxian blushed slightly and dived into the river flurriedly once again. She took a lot of effort to swim back to Li Hongmei and Li Hongmeiughed and teased her, Little Ye, well done. You just hugged Baoshan like that. ... Ye Xiaoxian was rendered to be speechless. I was almost scared to death, ok? ... The second household was still bathing in the river and the other two households began to take actions too. They felt so sulky as they did not have a bite of the pork leg during dinner. Wong Mudan came to Chen Ju while they were washing the bowls after dinner. Third Sister-inw, youve seen those chunks of pork leg Pa ate, right? I saw them alright. Why? asked Chen Ju. Tut-tut, they were so well-cooked and must have been zed by sugar. Shame that we didnt even get the chance of even tasting the juice! said Wong Mudan sullenly. Chen Ju added, I hope that Pa will buy one sometime when he feels like eating pork leg and then we can have it. Huh, you depend on him? Even if he buys some, you and me cant have much to eat! Wong Mudan replied sulkily. Chen Ju found Wong Mudan quite right. Old Mr. Xiao waszy and sexist. He despised women the most. When they sometimes bought pork bones or meat, Old Mr. Xiao would always fill his own bowl with the dish and then his sons and grandsons share another bowl; what left for her daughter-inws were nothing but residues. Wong Mudan sighed while washing the dishes, I really wanted to have a bite of their pork leg. Some juice will do. Chen Ju sighed, Me, too. Im so craving for some. A bright idea urred to Wong Mudan, Third Sister-inw. I doubt that they had a whole pork leg for one meal. Maybe theyll save some for tomorrow, wont they? Chen Ju now understood. Elder Sister-inw, you mean...we go and steal some to eat? Dont put it this way. Were just going to taste some. All of them seem to have gone to the riverside to take a bath. Shall we... Chen Jus stomach was rumbling hearing what Wong Mudan said and she swallowed, Lets go to...have a taste then. Chapter 46 - The Taste of Pot Cleaning Water Chapter 46: The Taste of Pot Cleaning Water Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Wong Mudan and Chen Ju slipped into the kitchen of the second household when the whole family was away. The door of the kitchen was chained but not locked. The two of them pulled out of the door and went in with a portable torch used as a light source. There was a wooden cupboard in which bowls, dishes and leftovers were ced. Wong Mudan opened the cupboard and didnt find the pork leg. They were searching other ces in the kitchen but didnt find a single trace of the pork leg but only saw a bowl of greasy thing on the thirdyer of the cupboard. They really ate up a whole pork leg. The whole family is really eating like a emperor and only left a bowl of juice! scolded Wong Mudan furiously. Elder Sister-inw, do you think it is the juice left from braising the pork leg? asked Chen Ju holding the bowl of that thingy. Wong Mudan smelled it and she smelled meat but other than that, there was also a trace of sour smell. Maybe it is... Wong Mudan was not quite sure. Then Ill have a drink. Didnt we just say that if we cant find the pork leg, some pork leg juice will do. Chen Ju swallowed. Chen Ju looked like a honest woman but she was actually very sly and gluttonous. Right, then go ahead. Wong Mudan wanted to drink it herself. Chen Ju took a mouthful of the juice first but it only tasted greasy and fishy which made her want to throw up. How is it? How is it? Wong Mudan wanted to ask how it tasted but Chen Ju couldnt open her mouth. Her mouth was upied but that thingy and she was in a dilemma of spitting it or swallowing it. Seeing that Chen Ju didnt answer yet, WD thought it must be tasty so she almost downed it. She was took so big of a mouthful and could not help swallowing it and just after that, Wong Mudan felt so sick and wanted to vomit! Chen Ju finally swallowed the juice and the two sisters-inw started to retch. They put down the juice, ran away from the kitchen and reached the water vat in the courtyard, starting todle up water to wash their stomach. They felt so awful that they never wish they would have another taste. Third Sister-inw, it was disgusting. Why didnt you tell me? Wong Mudan med Chen Ju. Chen Ju said, I was going to say it but it was toote. Why should you drink that fast? Chen Ju asked again, Elder Sister-inw, what on earth is it? Is it really the juice of braised pork leg? It probably is. I didnt expect that they ate pork leg this way. How disgusting. Their cooked pork leg actually tasted like that, yucky! Wong Mudan was in such an sour-grapes attitude. Im afraid it is not pork leg but...pot-cleaning water. Chen Ju said resentfully. Dont talk nonsense. That is the juice of pork leg. I smelled meat! The two sisters-inw were suppressing their sickness and going back home separately. ... Li Hongmei and her family members came back not before long. As they have to get up early in the next morning, Li Hongmei let Ye Xiaoxian and others go to their rooms first and she was staying to tidy up things. Actually there were not so much work left and she was only have to do some tidy-up in the kitchen. Li Hongmei was not going to dump that bowl of pot-cleaning water originally since it was left from the pork leg. She was thinking to add some water in it and save it to stir-fry some wild greens. It got some oil in it anyway so she didnt wish to waste it. But Ye Xiaoxian was noticing this at that time and she asked Li Hongmei to dump it, saying that this was leftover stale oil which could do harm to their health. And then Xiao Baozhu suggested that they go for a bath in the river so Li Hongmei had not got time to deal with it but inserted the bowl of stale oil in the cupboard. And now Li Hongmei carried a oilmp, entering the kitchen but found both doors of the kitchen and the cupboard opened and the bowl of stale oil was also taken away and put on the top of the oven. How strange. Have I not put it away? No way. She remembered clearly that she chained the door before she left. Li Hongmei pondered for a long while and came up with a thought: Burrs had burst into their home! But they were still very poor and what could she steal in the kitchen? It could only be some food. And the bowl of stale oil looked obviously less than it before. Was it drunk by others? Li Hongmei suddenly chuckled. Chapter 47 - Haven’t You Had Your Perfect Husband

Chapter 47: Havent You Had Your Perfect Husband

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK The next day, Li Hongmei told this story to Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu while they were selling cold jelly in town and the other two were amused as well. Xiao Baozhu asked, Ma, how do you know that they were elder and third aunts who slipped in and drank the pot-cleaning water? Who else can they be? Your grandpa had eaten the pork leg that night and your elder and third uncles are men. They wouldnt do such things. Those boys like Baocheng have been studying in private school, learning those Confucius books so they wouldnt sneak into others kitchen to steal things. So only your elder and third aunts are suspected. Besides... Besides? asked Ye Xiaoxian smilingly. After I found someone have slipped into our kitchen, I went to your elder aunts room, staying there to eavesdrop for a while and heard that your elder uncle said that she deserved to have loose bowels as she was gluttonous! hahaha... Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu started to chuckle again. When it reached noon, Housekeeper Liu came over to find Ye Xiaoxian again, asking her to cook lunch for Miss Liu. While they were chatting on their way, Ye Xiaoxian understood that Miss Lius name was Liu Qianqian and she was sixteen years old. Liu Qianqian didnt have any appetite as usual. In the face of various food like buns or pancakes cooked at her home, she couldnt eat anything and only drank a tiny bit of rice milk. Housekeeper Liu asked Ye Xiaoxian what kind of ingredients she needed for todays meal. YH gave it a quick think and said, Just get me some fish and ginger with cucumbers and wooden ear. Um, and vinegar, garlic, sesame oil and some chili if you can find some. chili? Housekeeper Liu looked puzzled. Ye Xiaoxian just realized that chili had not been popr as a vegetable or spice in this dynasty since they were mainly for being appreciated like a nt. She then added, I mean pepper. If you see anyone have it nted, pick up some and it can be used to cook dishes. ... Ye Xiaoxian made a sliced fish porridge in the Lius kitchen. This is a Cantonese dish, which is appetizing and quenching thirst and very suitable for people who have lost their appetite. When the porridge was cooked, Ye Xiaoxian made a cucumber sd and a wooden ear sd with some pepper sprinkled on the top. When the dishes are done, Auntie Wong fetched them to serve in to her miss. Just like yesterday, while Liu Qianqian was eating, Ye Xiaoxian waited outside. If Liu Qianqian didnt eat, Ye Xiaoxian had to cook other different dishes. No one expected that not long after Auntie Wong went in, she came out and called out to Ye Xiaoxian, Ms. Ye,e in for a while. Our miss wants to talk with you. Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit surprise and went in after hesitating for a second. This time Liu Qianqian looked much better than yesterday. Her hair had beenbed and she was in a more formal outfit. The whole person looked much healthier thanst time and she was much more polite to Ye Xiaoxian this time. Ms. Ye, I heard that youve already married? Liu Qianqian was seated in the front of a round table, asking while sipping her porridge. Ye Xiaoxian nodded, Yes. You look very young. I dont think youre older than me so why did you get married? Where does your husbande from? Does he treat you well? Liu Qianqian suddenly asked Ye Xiaoxian a series of questions as if she was investigating her background. When talking about her husband, what happened in the riverst night suddenly came across Ye Xiaoxians mind. Her heart slightly fluttered. Liu Qianqian suddenly lost her appetite and she put down her spoon. look at how shy you are. Your husband must care for you very much. Uh, every girl has found her perfect husband but why cant I? Ye Xiaoxian paused and suddenly realized that Liu Qianqian was still in her lovelorn period and she could bear to hear others being in love. In order to let Liu Qianqian eat her food, Ye Xiaoxian suddenly sighed What are you sighing for? Havent you had your perfect husband? So why did you sigh? asked Liu Qianqian sulkily. Chapter 48 - You Are Special to Me

Chapter 48: You Are Special to Me

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK All of a sudden, Ye Xiaoxian was like possessed by her mother-inw, dramatically squeezing out a tear. Please dont mention the word perfect. To be honest, I was abandoned by my own parents when I was young. My mother-inw adopted me kindly. She wanted me to marry her eldest son, but who knows that he was a short-lived one. My mother-inw was too poor to afford marry his second son to another woman, so she decided to let me marry him. And the second one was a foolish fellow who never looked at me in the eye, let alone calling me his wife. He only knows to cold shoulder me all the time. Huh? Why? Why did he not like you? asked Liu Qianqian. Youre so good at cooking and does he not like you cooking for him? He does like the dishes I cooked but you know, men always take women for granted. If I didnt cook for him, others would. Just a few days ago, I saw another woman deliver food to him in town! Hes too much! Liu Qianqian thumped the table furiously. Though she was outraged, once more, Liu Qianqian picked up her spoon and drank another spoonful of porridge with her teeth gritting. Ye Xiaoxian shed another tear, and then said, You must have heard from Housekeeper Liu. Im just a poormoner with a humble life. I make a living by selling cold jelly on the street, and my husband doesnt care for me at all, but I never thought of abandoning myself. I like cooking. Every time I eat something delicious, I feel how happy people are just living in this world, because one can only live well to eat roast duck, mutton hot pot, pce cuisine, fried liver, fermented soya-bean milk, Shumai, steamed bread of corn... Ye Xiaoxian recited a dozen of dishes name in one breath. Liu Qianqians appetite seemed to be boosted more. When she drank porridge, she also picked up some cucumber and wooden ear sd as well. What you said makes sense. Ye Xiaoxian thought of the those chicken-soup-for-the-soul articles she had read before, and continued, In fact, one wont die for lovesick. Others may not care for us, but we cant give up ourselves. The more beautifully you live, the more unhappy those who dont like you are, and one day, he will regret his decision! On the contrary, if you give up yourself and make yourself as thin as a bamboo pole, who will like you? Dont you think? Liu Qianqian heard what Ye Xiaoxian said and she was suddenly enlightened by Ye Xiaoxians words. Howe I never thought about this before? said Liu Qianqian. Its because youre a rich youngdy and you can have everything you want. Once you cant get hold of something, you will feel frustrated. Youre not good at enduring frustrations. When you get used to losing things, you will be stronger. Ye Xiaoxian continued tofort her. ,,, Liu Qianqians mood became veryplicated. She didnt know whether it was joy or sorrow, but it was a shame that Ye Xiaoxian, a young peasant woman cane up with such great words while she failed to realize it as a richdy. Liu Qianqian suddenly grabbed Ye Xiaoxians hands and said, Youre not half wrong. I decide to be as strong as you from now on. Yes. You need to learn to forget those unhappy stuff, eat properly and doll yourself up. And Im sure your perfect man will show up in the near future. After Ye Xiaoxianforted her, Liu Qianqian seemed to be full of fighting will. She said dec Ye Xiaoxian was speechless. No wonder that Miss Liu failed to own the man she wanted, it turned that the man was her cousin-inw. She didnt expect to experience such a tacky soap opera. ... When Ye Xiaoxian came out from Lord Lius, it was the hottest time of the whole day. By some chance, she made a detour to pass across the government office. Xiao Baoshan should be taking a rest under the big tree beside the government office at this moment. She wondered if she could bump into him, or the girl who delivered food to himst time? Even if she met Xiao Baoshan, Ye Xiaoxian had no n of what to do. She just felt that she could not just give up once she recalled that scene in the riverst night. It was packed under the tree and everyone lookedck of energy. Some were napping and some were chatting sitting in a circle. Ye Xiaoxian walked around, but she only saw several of Xiao Baoshans coworkers, but didnt see Xiao Baoshan anywhere and she wondered where he had been. Since she didnt find Xiao Baoshan, Ye Xiaoxian was going back to the cold jelly stand. When she passed by a big tree, she suddenly heard a timid female voice. Brother Baoshan, havent you...havent you found that I treat you differently from others? Ye Xiaoxian was stunned and couldnt move. Brother Baoshan? Chapter 49 - You Have Done A Good Job Today

Chapter 49: You Have Done A Good Job Today

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK As it became quiet again behind the tree, Ye Xiaoxian approached sneakily to them from another direction. As expected, it was Xiao Baoshan who stood face to face with the girl named Yaer Ye Xiaoxian sawst time. Yaer was blushing and her little face had be scarlet while Xiao Baoshan looked a bit at lost. Yaer, so what is it you want to talk to me? I...Brother Baoshan, every time I deliver pancakes to you, I give you the biggest one. Have you really not realized anything? Xiao Baoshan still looked very puzzled. Isnt it because Im a big guy so you think I eat more than others do? Facing such a guy, even Ye Xiaoxian murmured, You fool! Yaers face looked scarlet like blood shot and was wringing her clothes hard. And Xiao Baoshan finally sensed something and he suddenly straightened up his back. Yaer, if theres nothing else, Ill go back to rest. Brother Baoshan! Yaer suddenly reached out her hand and pulled his arms. She was calling up all her courage this time. Brother Baoshan, I, I like you! Xiao Baoshan stared her nkly, and pushed her hands away without much emotion. Sorry, I am married. But...but they said you hadnt married anyone when you just came back! Yaer still urged. I have get married recently! Then, then dont you like me? asked Yaer again. Ye Xiaoxian unconsciously took a step back and hid behind the big tree. She was worried that her appearance would render Xiao Baoshan hesitate or think twice. She wanted to hear what Xiao Baoshan really thought. After waiting for a long time, she heard the hoarse voice of Xiao Baoshan. I Never did. If my buddies hadnt teased me, I wouldnt even know your name. Since you asked me first today, Ill tell you the truth. I dont have any though about you. If you have any though about me, please dismiss it. Im sorry. Ye Xiaoxian was surprised. She didnt expect to see Xiao Baoshan as straightforward as this. This Yaer must be hurt badly. As expected, Yaer covered her face and ran away weeping. However, Ye Xiaoxian felt very joyous as if some heavy burdens had been unloaded from her heart. She felt much more reassured. She had not got much time to taste her happiness as a tall shadow was cast on her. She looked up, seeing Xiao Baoshan standing in front of her. He was staring at her as well with his profound gaze. Heehee. Ye Xiaoxian peeped at his affairs and she felt rather awkward so she smiled, How did you know that I was here? I saw you when you just came here! He said frankly. Oh, youve spotted me very early! she smiled awkwardly again. He didnt speak but gazed at her as if thinking of something. In order to break the ice, she initiated a conversation again, Who was that young girl? What...did you chat about? He took a step towards her which drew him even closer to her. He always looked well-behaved and steady, yet now he was a bit aggressive. When he spoke to her, his breath was touching her face, She is the daughter of a cook in the government office and she is responsible for delivering food to us. You should have heard all what I jus Well, some of them, yes but not quite clearly. Well...Ive got the main idea. She likes you but youre already married. Baoshan, today...youve done a good job! Ye Xiaoxian looked up and gazed at him gently and boldly. I am ttered! he said without batting an eyelid, ... Ye Xiaoxian blushed once more. She dared not pretend to be bold any longer, pushing him away and she ran out from that shade tree like fleeing for her life. Chapter 50 - Thick-Skinned

Chapter 50: Thick-Skinned

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Ye Xiaoxian was in a good mood that day. She went to a carpentry on her way back and bought a handcart. There were two big wheels of this handcart and it wont take much effort to push it. They could put cold jelly and shortbread in it when they came in to town to do business. Little Ye, you really bought a handcarf? Li Hongmei saw Ye Xiaoxian came back pushing a handcart and she was surprised with joy. Ye Xiaoxian was beaming with happiness as well. The handcart is not expensive and it only costs three hundred coins. I can make that amount of money by cooking a meal for Miss Liu so Baoshan wont need to work that hard carrying cold jelly on his should anymore. ... Ah-ha, are you worrying about Baoshan? Li Hongmei patted Ye Xiaoxians shoulder and teased her. Were family after all! Ye Xiaoxian blushed again and continued, If Baoshan is not avable, we girls can manage to do it as well. Oh, is it? Li Hongmei sized up Ye Xiaoxian one more time and found he being different from her usual self. Look at your face, as red as plum blossoms. Did you meet Baoshan just now? Li Hongmei asked tentatively, or, did you meet other men? Ma, what did you say? I just met Baoshan on my way back and we didnt chat much! Ye Xiaoxian felt rather shy and changed the topic hurriedly, Ma, hows business? Once talking about business, Li Hongmei felt a bit not in the mood. The cold jelly still sells well as usual but the business of shortbread didnt go very well. We didnt sell much for the whole day. Its already this time and there were still half bucket left. People usual ate shortbread for breakfast and some probably buy one for lunch but it was already afternoon and they wouldnt sell anything more if they failed to sell any now. Little Ye, I swear that Ive tried my best to sell the shortbread but I dont know if its because of the hot weather, everyone said that they havent got the appetite, said Li Hongmei pitifully. Ye Xiaoxian found what she said make sense. It was not an easy work to sell shortbread in summer and they didnt taste any good when they went cold and but only tasted greasy. She decided that if the business of selling shortbread was still not going well, she would not sell them for this time period. As they are doing food business, they need to bring forth the new cuisine through the old ones. ... By dawn, the tree of them were pushing the handcart toe back to the vige. Previously when they came back after selling things, Ye Xiaoxian usually carried a pair of empty buckets and Li Hongmei carried an another pair of empty buckets. Now they had a cart, and they could put all the things on it. One person controlled the direction in the front, and the other two were pushing at the rear of it. It was less troublesome and morebor-saving. When they reached the entrance of the vige, they saw quite a few vigers sitting on the old banyan there. Seeing that they had used handcart, these vigers started to whisper to each other. Look at those women. They were carried their things with shoulders in the morning and they had a handcart when they came back. The wood looks new. They must have just bought it. Tut-tut, since they have lived separately, they be better-off day by day! What is so good even if their life is better-off? Those people have no morals. One was a harlot in her early days and the other who was supposed to be the elder-daughter-inw, has be the second-daughter-inw. I saw them bathing in the riverst night. And men and women were mixing up together. So thick-skinned? You are right there! ... Chapter 51 - Picking Him up on A Typhoon Day

Chapter 51: Picking Him up on A Typhoon Day

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Vigers here always chatted in a loud voice but on the other hand, they thought that Li Hongmei and the other two were women so they were easily bullied, so in this case they did not even lower their voices while gossiping behind others backs. Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian had heard all of it. Xiao Baozhu was young with less nerve. Every time she heard others talk about her family affairs she would feel so embarrassed that she wished that there was a hole which she could just crawl into. Li Hongmei didnt wish to hear others gossip, and whats more, she could deal with gossip about herself but not about her son and her daughter-inw. She was just about to put down her handcart to argue with them when Ye Xiaoxian, who was behind Li Hongmei, stopped her. Ma, dont lower yourself to their level. It doesnt benefit us much even if we win. Li Hongmei turned around to face Ye Xiaoxian. But theyre talking about you. Dont you need to think about your reputation? We earn our reputations by relying on our abilities, not by arguing with them. Those people are green-eyed. If we stoop to arguing with them we would be indignant by lowering ourselves to their level. Life is long so lets wait and see! What Ye Xiaoxian said made Li Hongmei feel much better. Little Ye, youre right. So lets just ignore them and let them say what they want to say. Were very generous and we dont care about those trivial matters! As soon as she finished talking, Li Hongmei made a spitting sound to the banyan tree. We dont even bother to talk to you green-eyed people! Ye Xiaoxian. ... ... Not long before they arrived home, dark clouds were flooding the sky and within a split second came drizzling rain from the sky and the wind was blowing stronger and stronger. Qinghe is a southern vige; but although it is not at the seaside, sometimes there are still typhoons. A typhoon was fiercely approaching and small trees in the vige were wavering east and west in the wind which was gusting through the house and all the tiles on the roof were almost blown away. Once Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian reached home they hurried to bring in their clothes and close the windows and doors. Seeing that the rain was getting heavier, Li Hongmei suddenly said, Little Ye, Baoshan should be home soon. I guess he didnt bring an umbre or anything with him. He might get soaked, right? Then Ill pick him up! Actually Ye Xiaoxian thought about Xiao Baoshan as soon as the typhoon came. She began to worry about him when she realized that he didnt have an umbre. As Li Hongmei said this, Ye Xiaoxian hurriedly picked up a bamboo rain hat, a cloak and the only oilcloth umbre they had and then ran out. Li Hongmei was folding clothes but as she realized that it was not the proper weather for picking up others, Ye Xiaoxian had already run out of the courtyard. Li Hongmei immediately ran out after her and shouted, Little Ye, dont go...sigh, be careful! But her voice was devoured by the wind and the rain. Little Ye she really likes our Baoshan! murmured Li Hongmei. Ye Xiaoxian didnt realize the danger of this typhoon until she had run far away. She was thin and the wind almost blew her away. When the typhoon struck, all the vigers hid inside their homes. Both the rain and the wind were heavy and her vision started to be blurry. She could almost not see a thing except for the wind and the rain. All the roads in the vige were made of earth which became soggy every time the rain came and her shoes were already covered with mud. The situation was even worse outside of the entrance to the vige. Ye Xiaoxian was soaked from standing in the wind and rain for a short while. The temperature was dropping once the rain came, and moreover her whole body was soaked with rain so she began to shiver. She didnt know why Xiao Baoshan had note back home yet or when he woulde back. She knew that it would not do any good just by standing there and waiting. She did not know why she ran out impulsively like this! She waited for a while longer but Xiao Baoshan still did not return, and she began to shake. Would she catch a cold like this? It was gettingte and if the sky was getting dark, she may not be able to find her way back, which would be more dangerous. Her sanity was telling her this but her body wasnt doing the same thing. She just waited and waited and would not leave until she saw Xiao Baoshan. She waited a while longer and finally she saw arger, tall figure appearing in the rainstorm. It is Xiao Baoshan! Chapter 52 - He Roared at Her

Chapter 52: He Roared at Her

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan was wearing a bamboo rain hat with a bamboo raincoat covering his body as he strode towards home. Baoshan! Ye Xiaoxian shouted loudly out of excitement. He must be happy to see her, a small woman waiting for him on such a stormy day, mustnt he? However, the happiness she expected to see from him did not appear. When Xiao Baoshan approached Ye Xiaoxian he looked very cold and seemed unhappy. What are you doing here? I was waiting for you. Ma said you didnt bring an umbre with you and asked me to send the oilcloth umbre to you. Ye Xiaoxian held up the oilcloth umbre in her hand. Sending me an umbre in such weather? How old are you? Dont you know it is dangerous? he questioned her to her face. I... Go back now! he urged again in a demanding tone. Ye Xiaoxian only felt that her good will was taken as malice, so she was also enraged. I will go back without you telling me to! If it wasnt for Ma worrying about you, I wouldnte at all! After she yelled at him, she put the umbre under his arm, turned around and went away. She simply felt wronged and enraged. She had been waiting for him on such a stormy day but he was not grateful; whats more, he even told her off. And Xiao Baoshan, after being shouted at by Ye Xiaoxian, was stunned for a while and was then standing dumbly in the rain. Was I...being too strict with her just now? He knew that there would be rain at dusk but he didnt inform his ma and little Ye for he knew that they woulde home earlier than him. Still, he did not expect to see this storm break with full fury. Many branches were broken off by the wind and scattered across the ground. He was actually relieved as all the women of his family had gone back earlier and it would be too dangerous for them if they were still on their way. So he didnt expect to see Ye Xiaoxian standing at the entrance of the vige. She was slim and her delicate body was shaking in the storm. Seeing this, he started feeling worried and angry, but Ye Xiaoxian was enraged as well, so he thought to himself, Am I wrong? Was I being too strict to her? Ye Xiaoxian hurried back home and got changed as soon as she reached home. She still felt cold so she went to the kitchen to warm herself up at the fire after getting changed. Li Hongmei had already been lighting a fire and cooking some rice porridge. As they still had some shortbread left which was not sold in town, Li Hongmei did not cook meals but was going to make do with porridge and some shortbread. Seeing Ye Xiaoxiane back with her hair wet, Li Hongmei asked her hurriedly, Little Ye, you saw Baoshan? Yes, I did, replied Ye Xiaoxian in low spirits. I was trying to stop you but youd already rushed out! Li Hongmei said. A big man like him will be okay even hes caught in a rain. Li Hongmei then replied dejectedly, I was just being sentimental. Little Ye you... Li Hongmei felt something was wrong. Just then Xiao Baoshan went back. He stood at the gate and nced at Ye Xiaoxian inside. Ye Xiaoxian was still sulking and ignoring him. Baoshan, why were you soaked like this as well? Come on in and sit by the fire, will you? asked Li Hongmei. Xiao Baoshan was just staring at Ye Xiaoxian. Im okay, Ma. By the way, little Ye just sent me the umbre. I just wanted to thank her. Ye Xiaoxians heart sank. She was still feeling wronged and thinking, It is toote to apologise! Xiao Baoshan did not see any response from Ye Xiaoxian so he could only go back to his room confused and disappointed. Li Hongmei felt that it was not a simple case so she let Ye Xiaoxian take care of the fire and she went to Xiao Baoshan herself. You fool, why did you do that? Little Ye was sending you an umbre with good will and you told her off? After she heard the whole story, Li Hongmei could not help scolding her son. Xiao Baoshan also reproached Li Hongmei, Ma, next time in such stormy weather, dont let anyone send an umbre to me. Its dangerous. So many trees were uprooted and she was just a fragile girl. I let her send it? Li Hongmei knew that Ye Xiaoxian must have used her as an excuse again, so she answered, Fine, even if I said it, it would only happen when she was willing to go. Anyway, its your fault scolding her! I have apologized! said Xiao Baoshan. You call that an apology? What should I do then? asked Xiao Baoshan. Dont we still have the brown sugar for making cold jelly? Hurry up and infuse the sugar in boiled water with some ginger in it and bring it to her. Remember, dont say it was me who told you to do this! Chapter 53 - Following Her up The Mountain

Chapter 53: Following Her up The Mountain

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian was stilling taking care of the fire in the kitchen so she wore her hair down to dry it off. It was not long before Xiao Baoshan came in as well. Ye Xiaoxian felt upset just from seeing him, so she turned around and ignored him. Xiao Baoshan then found the brown sugar by himself. He cut some ginger into it and poured hot boiled water and a bowl of brown sugar tea was done. He sat the brown sugar tea on the top of the oven and said to Ye Xiaoxian, Have some brown sugar ginger tea. Dont catch a cold. Ye Xiaoxian asked, Ma told you to do this, right? ... Xiao Baoshan hesitated. Ye Xiaoxian had already see through this so she said sulkily, Fine, I know. Put it down here and I will drink it! Xiao Baoshan paused and added, I was in the wrong for what happened just now and thank you for sending me an umbre in the storm! Ye Xiaoxian raised her head but Xiao Baoshan had already turned around and left. This rainsted for a whole night. The rain abated by the next morning but it was not the right weather for going to town to put up their stall. Moreover, the temperature was lower in a typhoon and few people would buy cold jelly to drink. It would be a waste of time even if they went there. Xiao Baoshan did not go out today either. Being a handyman was a part-time job anyhow. They were paid on a daily basis and were supposed to do various jobs including sailor, ship tracker, delivery man, cart driver, jiao driver. It was okay if they were free from work for a couple of days. As they didnt have to go out, Ye Xiaoxian stayed at home and taught Xiao Baozhu to practice Chinese characters. In fact, Xiao Baozhu wasnt fond of reading and writing. She was not very literate herself and sheined every time she had to practice writing characters. Ye Xiaoxian could not care less. She didnt expect Xiao Baoshan to grow up to be a schr but she needed to at least know how to read. When the time reached Si, which equaled to 10:00 a.m., the rained finally stopped and so did the wind. The cloud had gone and the sun came out. It seemed that the typhoon had already gone. Ye Xiaoxian was sitting idly, so she was thinking to go up to the mountain to collect some Chinese mesona. Xiao Baozhu heard that Ye Xiaoxian was going to collect Chinese mesona and she immediately said, Sister-inw, Im going with you! Youd better not go. Stay here to practice the characters I just taught you. Ill check your work next time. Xiao Baozhu was upset all of a sudden. When Xiao Baoshan heard that Ye Xiaoxian was going up to the mountain to pick Chinese mesona, suddenly he put down his work and said to Ye Xiaoxian, I will go with you! ... Ye Xiaoxian was in a daze for a while and then asked, What are you going to do up there? Is he not afraid of being gossiped about by others when there are only two of them up a mountain? However, Xiao Baoshan replied, It just rained and the mountain roads are slippery. Its safer for me to apany you. Up to you! Ye Xiaoxian was still upset about being scolded by himst night. The roads were indeed muddy but luckily mountains were very remote in this era and there was a lot of grass on both sides of the mountainne. One neednt worry about slipping so long as they stepped on the grass. Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan were going up the mountain one behind another. She walked very slowly and Xiao Baoshan did not increase his speed but kept a certain distance from her all the time. The mountain air was fresh and the fragrance of mud and grass was spread everywhere. The surrounding nts were still dripping wet. Fortunately Ye Xiaoxian was far-sighted and instead of wearing cloth shoes, she wore a pair of straw shoes which were like sandals, so it would not a problem even if they got wet. Though it was a tough job, Ye Xiaoxian had toe and collect Chinese mesona or she might not have time to do it when the weather became bad again. The mountainne was quiet. There were only the footsteps of the two of them, apart from the chirping of birds. Ye Xiaoxian felt bored walking like this so finally she paused, turning to look at Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan stopped as well and watched Ye Xiaoxian. Well, dont follow me then if youre just going to walk without saying a word. Youre making me feel awkward! Xiao Baoshan was surprised for a while and he seemed to think, Why is it awkward? Havent you said to Yaer that youve already got married? As youve alreadymitted to being married, then arent I your wife? asked Ye Xiaoxian. You naturally are. Xiao Baoshan did not understand why she had asked. Then we are a married couple. Have you ever seen a married couple walking alongside each other without speaking? Dont you feel awkward? said Ye Xiaoxian sulkily. Xiao Baoshan remained silent for a second and then he walked behind Ye Xiaoxian. The mountainne is too narrow to walk shoulder to shoulder. Do you think is it alright for me walking behind you like this? asked Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian. ... Suit yourself! answered Ye Xiaoxian reluctantly. Such a thick-head! Chapter 54 - Is He Going Hunting

Chapter 54: Is He Going Hunting

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian soon found a ce where she could pick Chinese mesona. These kind of climbers can be tied together and put into the basket after picking. Xiao Baoshan wasing to give her a hand. After he had learned which were Chinese mesona, he started helping Ye Xiaoxian to pick them up and had collected more of them than Ye Xiaoxian did. Seeing that he had tried his best to help her and apanied her carefully all the way, Ye Xiaoxians fury had more or less cooled down. She thought that although they were known as husband and wife, they actually had not known each other for long, so it was not realistic for him to be passionate about her all of a sudden since their affection had not reached that level. Never mind. Just let it be. After they collected enough Chinese mesona, Ye Xiaoxian then carried her bamboo bag which contained the herb on her back, but the bucket was coarse, so when she put the bag over her shoulder it scratched her hair and her hair tie fell off which made her hair fall. Uh, its broken! Ye Xiaoxian touched her long hair, trying to tie it back again, but the tie broke once she pulled it. The hair tie belonged to the original owner of her body and who knew for how many years it had been used as it could not withstand a single pull. She then sighed. What a pity. I dont have a hair tie to use tomorrow. It was not a trend for girls to wear their hair down in this era so Ye Xiaoxian had no option. Putting her bucket down she plucked some weeds and then wrung them together making a string to tie her hair back. Xiao Baoshan watched Ye Xiaoxians behavior quietly without saying anything. When Ye Xiaoxian carried her bucket once more on her back, Xiao Baoshan then said to her, Little Ye, how about you go down the mountain first. I will carry your bucket back for youter. Youre not leaving? asked Ye Xiaoxian, puzzled. I want to...hunt for something! said Xiao Baoshan. Hunting? Ye Xiaoxian knew that there must be some prey in this remote mountain but once she thought about those wild animals she could not help shuddering. You only carried one knife with you so how could you hunt for prey? Dont you need a bow and arrows to go hunting? Ye Xiaoxian recalled those period dramas she watched in the past. Xiao Baoshan just smiled. I have my own way. What way is that? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Like Wu Song? Fighting a tiger with bare hands? Forget it. I dont want to be a widow again. Seeing that Ye Xiaoxian was worried, in order to resolve her worries, Xiao Baoshan then chopped a bamboo cane nearby with a billhook which he carried with him. His chopping skill was excellent and he was also very strong, so not before long he had trimmed the bamboo into a spear shape and had done five of them in total. He then took one of them towards a pine tree not far away and said to Ye Xiaoxian, Look carefully! Ye Xiaoxian justid her eyes on the pine tree as the spear had already been cast away by Xiao Baoshan. The spear flew into the pine tree like an arrow and stabbed into its trunk with a swoosh sound. The tip of the spear had prated at least three centimeters into the trunk. Ye Xiaoxian was dumbfounded. Is it the legendary internal martial art? Xiao Baoshan is a kung fu master? Xiao Baoshan turned around and looked at Ye Xiaoxian, saying, Little Ye, now you can rest assured. I wonte across any danger in the mountain. Meanwhile, he gave another spear to Ye Xiaoxian. Take this with you and you can use it as a walking stick. Ye Xiaoxian took it from him and she was not only reassured but admired Xiao Baoshan very much. Her affection towards him had multiplied. Well... well then, I am going down the mountain. Be careful while youre here. Xiao Baoshan nodded and then asked, What kind of game meat you are good at cooking? Chicken, hare or boar? Ye Xiaoxian turned around and smiled to him frankly. Hare! Chapter 55 - Collecting Hares

Chapter 55: Collecting Hares

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian did not expect Xiao Baoshan to return home so early, as he was just two hourster than her. Whats more, in his bucket was not only the Chinese mesona but four dead wild hares. Did he do it for her because of what she said? She said she was good at cooking hare so is this why hed hunted some for her? Maybe Xiao Baoshan worried that the hares wounds were too bloody so he had washed them in the river before taking them back. Ye Xiaoxian was ovee with unexpected joy and her little heart began to thump again. Xiao Baoshan gave one of the hares to Ye Xiaoxian and said, Our family can eat one and as for the other three, Im thinking of selling them in the town. What do you think? Certainly! said Ye Xiaoxian. The weather is hot so those hares tend to go off. We are, at most, able to eat half a hare for one meal and we might as well sell the rest. Xiao Baoshan said, Then I shall go to town now. In such a hurry? Sell them while they are still fresh or they may not sell for a good price, said Xiao Baoshan as he took away the other three and left. When Li Hongmei went out she only saw the back of her son, so she asked Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, didnt Baoshan juste back? Why did he go out again? Ye Xiaoxian whispered hurriedly to Li Hongmei, Ma, Baoshan hunted four wild hares. We took one of them and he took the rest to sell in town. Ma, wed better keep it quiet in case the other two households hear something and make a scene again. Wild hares? Li Hongmei was overjoyed. Is Baoshan that capable that he was able to hunt hares? Yea, Baoshan...is really pretty good at this. Well, Ma, I have to leave you for now and go and deal with this hare. If the two aunts see this, well tell them that we picked them up in the mountain, so dont say anything about Baoshan going hunting. Right, right. I see! Li Hongmei replied with excitement. Life is getting better and better. My son has not onlye back but he is able to hunt for wild hares. When Ye Xiaoxian had sorted out the hare, she was spotted by Wong Mudan atst. They shared the same courtyard after all and their kitchen was small, so she could only go somewhere near the water jug to deal with its guts and fur. Oops, is this...a hare? Wong Mudan saw Ye Xiaoxian burning the fur from the hare, so she came to her and asked this out of curiosity. I picked it up on the mountain, said Ye Xiaoxian inly. Picked up? What kind of luck is this? The storm had just gone so maybe it died in the rain or was smashed by some falling trees, replied Ye Xiaoxian. You dare to eat a hare that died in the rain? Arent you afraid that it might have some disease? said Wong Mudan jealously. Ye Xiaoxian smiled faintly, As long as we picked one up, we were lucky already. We might as well eat it first, regardless of its disease. She then added, Elder aunt, I was thinking of giving some of it to you for your dinner, but as youre afraid of disease, Id better not. You... Wong Mudan wanted to say that she did not care about disease at all, but what was said was said so she could not take it back. She then asked Ye Xiaoxian, Is it true that after a rain you can always pick up some wild hares or pheasants up in the mountain? Ye Xiaoxian gave it some thought and replied, Perhaps its true. Think about it. The typhoon yesterday was so fierce and pheasants in the mountain had no nests or anything. Even if they had nests, they must have been blown away, so thats why they would be dead in the showering rain, right? What Ye Xiaoxian said sparked an idea in Wong Mudan, so she went to Chen Ju right away. What? Picking up game meat in the mountain? Chen Ju looked at the sky and said, But it is already dinner time, isnt it? If dinner is servedte, Pa will scold us again. Chapter 56 - The Hair Tie He Bought for Her Chapter 56: The Hair Tie He Bought for Her What are you afraid of? said Wong Mudan. If we really picked up some game meat, Pa would be more than d to see it so why would he scold us? What do you say? Chen Ju was, after all, more cautious than Wong Mudan. Is it true? Do you guarantee that we can pick any up? Wong Mudan then quoted what Ye Xiaoxian just said. Of course. Think about it. The typhoon yesterday was so fierce and pheasants in the mountain had no nests or anything. Even if they had nests, they must have been blown away, so thats why they would be dead in the rain shower, right? Chen Ju gave it some thought and she agreed to what Wong Mudan said, so the two of them simply packed up and made their way to the mountain. Xiao Baoshan walked very fast so he came back home before dark. When he arrived home Ye Xiaoxian was already done chopping up the hare and got ready to make a pot of hare meat with fresh bamboo shoots. In the kitchen, Ye Xiaoxian was cooking and Li Hongmei was taking care of the fire. Xiao Baoshan stepped in, passed eight hundred coins to Li Hongmei and said that these were made by selling the hares. Except for the coins, Xiao Baoshan gave Li Hongmei something else which turned out to be five or six hair ties. Baoshan, why did you buy these? asked Li Hongmei. Is it because you saw little Ye Xiaoxian had tied her hair with grass string this morning? Xiao Baoshan answered inly, When I went back from the town I happened to see someone selling this stuff. There were only a few left and he asked me if I needed any, so I bought the rest of them. Ma, you share them with little Ye and Baozhu then. Aha, you petty man, obviously you bought these for little Ye but still you use us as an excuse. Well I wont give any to little Ye, so these are all for Baozhu and me, okay? Li Hongmei teased him. Xiao Baoshan did not answer and he knew that Li Hongmei would not do this. As for Ye Xiaoxian, she was holding a great joy in her heart. She certainly knew the reason why Xiao Baoshan bought hair ties was that her hair tie broke when they were in the mountain, otherwise why would he buy them? The only thing is that this guy is too reticent. Or he simply just wanted to buy hair ties for every woman in his family to show that he treated everyone equally. Sigh, boring. The hare meat was soon cooked and Ye Xiaoxian asked Xiao Baofeng to take a small bowl of it for Old Mr. Xiao. When Xiao Baofeng came back he looked tense. Grandpa was very sulky. He said that no one was cooking for him, as our elder and third aunt had gone out somewhere and had note home yet. He asked if we can fill a bowl of rice for him? Li Hongmei said, Sure, hurry up and take one bowl of rice to your grandpa. He scolds others when he is upset and we dont want him to scold uster. Li Hongmei murmured confusedly, What are those two sisters-inw up to today? Dont they start cooking around this time every day? And its already sote now yet theyre still out. Arent they afraid of being shouted at? Ye Xiaoxian wondered if they believed what she said and really went up to the mountain to collect game meat? Seeing that Ye Xiaoxian looked a bit odd, Li Hongmei then asked her, Little Ye, do you know where they went? Ye Xiaoxian then told them what happened in the afternoon. Ah? Little Ye Xiaoxian you actually...lord, its killing me! Those two morons, they really thought they could just pick up game meat in the mountain. Without our Baoshan they wouldnt be able to taste a bit of meat. Not even in their wildest dreams! Xiao Baozhuughed as well. Xiao Baoshan looked rather calm. Its perilous up in the mountain. Itd be dangerous if they shoulde across anything. What...what kind of thing they shoulde across? Xiao Baoshan said, Id better go there and check. Chapter 57 - Two Morons

Chapter 57: Two Morons

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Xiao Baoshan had just finished talking when they heard Xiao Baocheng speaking outside. Ma, third aunt, youve finally returned! Theyvee back? Ye Xiaoxian and her family came out also. The day had not quite be fully dark and they could just vaguely see that Wong Mudan and Chen Ju were in a bad situation. They wereing back, supporting each other hand-in-hand. Ma, where did you go? Why have youe home sote? No one was cooking and Grandpa was scolding us just now at home! Wong Mudan was enraged all of a sudden. Are all of you in this family dead apart from us two? You were just waiting for us to cook dinner and doing nothing? Xiao Baocheng answered, You should have at least told us where you had been. There were only men in our family. Wong Mudans anger grew.So what? Men dont have to work? Xiao Baoshan and Xiao Baofeng of the second household just work like others do, dont they? Especially Xiao Baoshan, who is always seen chopping firewood or washing vegetables outside. Xiao Baocheng saw her mothers anger, so he added, Ma, dont you remember that you said this? You said that men should go out to learn in school and make money, and that its alright to leave all the chores back home to women. Wong Mudan almost spat blood. Indeed, she said this. In this family, Old Mr. Xiao naturally did not work, and her man and Chen Jus man were both working for the government office, getting paid two taels of silver every month. In the past, to bully the second household, Wong Mudan always threw all the chores to them and mocked Li Hongmei for not having a man. Now she was foiled by her own n. After Xiao Baocheng finished talking, Wong Mudans man, Xiao Tieshu, came out too and also began to scold her. Where the hell have you two been? You came home thatte? I thought you two were dead out there. Wong Mudan suddenly felt wronged. I went up the mountain! What were you doing there in such weather? Little Ye picked up a wild hare in the mountain so I thought maybe I could pick something else, so Ju and I were going up there as well. So? Did you get anything? asked Xiao Tieshu panting with rage. Get anything? I havent picked up a damn thing, not even a hares hair, but only tripped over to the ground. Wong Mudan was trying to find someone tofort herself, however not only did nobodye to console her, but she was now almost suffocated by anger. She then let out her anger onto Ye Xiaoxian. Little Ye, you little bitch. Its all your fault. You said there was game meat to pick up in the mountain and you let me run up there for nothing. Ye Xiaoxian was not happy with her usation. She had just said it randomly, and who knew that Wong Mudan would go up the mountain herself? Yes, I did say there was game in the mountain but didnt you say that they were not edible because of disease? Since they werent edible, why did you bother going up the mountain? Ye Xiaoxian retorted. I... Wong Mudan stuttered. Again her husband scolded, Why are you still standing there? Hurry up and cook the meal! Wong Mudan said in a pathetic tone, But I fell over and my hip seized up. Xiao Tieshu replied, So? So theres nobody cooking dinner then? Okay...okay, I will cook dinner right away! She failed to gain any sympathy and without any help she could only cook dinner by herself. ... The following day. Ye Xiaoxian had halved the amount of shortbread she was going to sell. She nned to sell them only in the morning and slowly decrease the amount day by day. Right now she had to focus on selling cold jelly. On the one hand, cold shortbread was not tasty and on the other hand, the weather was hot. Still, she needed to add more new produce which would only happen when she had made enough money. Just as she opened her cold jelly stall that day, Housekeeper Liu came to her. Ah young Mrs. Xiao, you finally came. Our youngdy has been looking forward to seeing you all day. Chapter 58 - What Happened in The Mountain? Chapter 58: What Happened in The Mountain? Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK It was so stormy yesterday and I was not able to get out of the house, so I didnt open my stand. How is Miss? Did she not eat anything? asked Ye Xiaoxian caringly. Youre right. She only eats what you cook and doesnt care for anything else. She only drank a little bit of rice soup yesterday! said Housekeeper Liu sadly. Then maybe take a couple of pieces of shortbread for her to have a bite first. Ill go to her immediately once my mother-inw and my sister-inwe! Ye Xiaoxian said. Housekeeper Liu took the shortbread and handed Ye Xiaoxian a tael of silver. Young Mrs. Xiao, just get any ingredients you want by yourself and take them with youter. That much? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Just give me the rest if there is any left! HL said generously. Ye Xiaoxian carried the money to the market. There was a street in the west of the town full of chicken, duck, fish and various of meats. She went first to a stand which sold chicken. They sold either whole or cut chicken, but they never separated chicken feet or wings to sell in this era. Ye Xiaoxian told the owner that she was willing to buy their chicken feet at a higher price and asked him to save some for her. She then went to purchase other ingredients. She bought a fish, some bean sprouts, cucumber, zanthoxylum, lemon and a tiny bit of dried pepper which took a lot of effort to find in that era. After she bought these ingredients, she went back to the chicken stall and the owner had already collected more than ten chickens feet for her. Chicken feet had less flesh on them, so few people were willing to eat them. Everyone was here to buy the meaty parts of a chicken and some of the chicken feet were free while the others were sold. It was rare for someone like Ye Xiaoxian toe and buy chicken feet specially, even with a higher price. The owner could not have been happier. Ye Xiaoxian also asked the owner to save as many chicken feet as possible for her tomorrow. After she was done shopping she went to Lord Lius with these ingredients. There were two dishes that she would like to cook, one was fish fillets in hot chili oil and the other was lemon chicken feet. Both fish fillets in hot chili oil and lemon chicken feet were appetizing. The first one was spicy, teasing taste buds, and the other was appetizing. If they suited Liu Qianqians taste then maybe she would eat a whole bowl of them. It took Ye Xiaoxian some time to finally cook the two dishes. As she had chatted with LQst time, Ye Xiaoxian did not stand on ceremony this time. She took the dishes inside with Nanny Wong once they were ready. Ye Xiaoxian had note yesterday, so after LQ saw her she looked rather unhappy. It wasnt raining yesterday, was it? Why did you note? You can stille to my home to cook, even if you dont open up shop. Its not like were not going to pay you. Ye Xiaoxian knew that LQ was still upset so she did not argue with her but just smiled. My uncaring husband asked me to go up to the mountain yesterday. It was a rare opportunity so I had to take it, right? Upon hearing this LQ was at once cheered up. She sat up and asked, Your husband and you? Only two of you? Yes! Did anything happen? asked LQ. What could happen? Ye Xiaoxian acted dumb. LQ then took out all the books at the head of her bed. As someone who has read so many romantic novels, I reckon that something must happen when a man and a woman go up a mountain, like cuddling in a bush. Ye Xiaoxian just noticed that what LQ read were all romantic novels which were simr to the modern ones. She could not help but smile. Do you really want to know? I do! said LQ. Then have your meal first. I cooked them with utmost care! Chapter 59 - What Did He Mean?

Chapter 59: What Did He Mean?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK LQ had in fact been smelling the food for a while. The sour and spicy fragrance made her mouth water. She was indeed unhappy about the absence of Ye Xiaoxian yesterday but she felt alright once she hadined. She was actually waiting for Ye Xiaoxian to give her an out. As Ye Xiaoxian said this, LQ then replied, Fine, Ill let you go this time. Let me try your food. She lifted a fish fillet with her chopsticks first. The fish fillet was marinated in corn flour, so it tasted smooth and soft after it was cooked; besides, with those dried peppers it satisfied her taste buds the instant she had put it in her mouth. It was LQs first time tasting such a delicious dish. Compared with Ye Xiaoxians cooking, the food cooked by LQs own kitchen was nothing but tasteless. Still she was as entitled as Miss Liu, so she was not willing to praise Ye Xiaoxian directly, but she said, Its a bit spicy but I can take it. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Then maybe try the lemon chicken feet. Due to the limited time, the chicken feet were not marinated long enough to preserve the vor but Ye Xiaoxian stir-fried them after they were boiled. So they were also smooth, soft and easy to chew. After LQ tasted one she could not help but try another one. Ye Xiaoxian then said, Qianqian, perhaps you should eat the fish first since it wont taste as good when it gets cold, but chicken feet are still good when they cool down. The fish was a little spicy so she needed rice to go with it and she ended up having two big bowls of rice. After she finished eating she asked Ye Xiaoxian, Now you can tell me what happened between you two in the mountain, cant you? Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Nothing much. Just my hair tie was snagged by my bamboo bucket and broke, so he bought me another one, but he didnt just buy one for me. He actually bought one for each woman in our family. LQ then became jumpy. What did he mean by this? How can I know? He was a riddle. I reckon that he was too shy to just buy one for you so thats why he bought one for each woman in your family! You can tell that? LQ once again passed all of the novels to Ye Xiaoxian. Or you can read these novels. I can lend them to you for a few days. You do read, dont you? I do, though I have no time for reading them. I have to open up shop and cook food! said Ye Xiaoxian. But I can borrow a couple of them and give them to my little sister-inw. Shes been practicing writing these days, though she doesnt show much interest, but if there were some novels to read then perhaps shed be more interested. Fine, these are all for you then. Ive read them all anyway, said LQ generously. Before Ye Xiaoxian left, LQ added, Your husband must have started to take an interest in you. Trust me, if you take more initiative he might be willing to sleep in the same room as you. Ye Xiaoxian. ... After Ye Xiaoxian left, LQ asked Housekeeper Liu to take the leftover fish fillet to Lord Liu to let him try it. Lord Liu was wondering why her daughter was so fond of the food Ye Xiaoxian cooked, but once he took a bite of the fish, he fell for it also and made a clean sweep of the te. Meanwhile, LQ ordered others to buy new novels. She was reading novels while eating chicken feet and before she knew it she had eaten them all up. ... When Ye Xiaoxian went back to her stand she was starving. It was been a long time since she had had fish fillets in hot chili oil and she craved for some also, so after she sold out all the cold jelly she went to the market to buy a three-jin grass carp and some other ingredients, deciding to cook some fish fillets in hot chili Chapter 60 - Fish Fillets in Hot Chili Oil Chapter 60: Fish Fillets in Hot Chili Oil Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK As for the romantic novels brought by Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baozhu didnt show any interest in it from the beginning. Xiao Baozhu was just beginning to learn how to write and it was already a miracle that she could read two-thirds of the words in one page. Ye Xiaoxian did not urge Xiao Baozhu to understand all the stories straight away, but she read the novel to her first. Girls were always interested in romantic stories, so it was why, when Ye Xiaoxian read a story about a schr falling in love with amon girl, Xiao Baoshan began to show an interest in it. Ye Xiaoxian only read half of the story for Xiao Baozhu and asked her to finish it by herself. Xiao Baozhu had no option but to start reading arduously by herself. She turned to Ye Xiaoxian for help once she encountered some obstacles and Ye Xiaoxian would exin to her patiently. It turned out that by the end of the afternoon Xiao Baozhu was able to finish the first story on her own. Li Hongmei, who was beside them, saw this and could not help reminding her daughter. Baozhu, look how patient little Ye Xiaoxian is with you. She has taken many pains to teach you how to read and write. ... No one expected that Xiao Baozhu was addicted to reading romantic novels. After she came back home at dusk, she even asked her little brother, who had just returned from school, how to read the second story. Xiao Baofeng went to school every day and his job was to read and write, plus he was diligent and intelligent, so what he had learned was far more than Xiao Baozhu. He knew almost all of the Chinese characters in that novel and if there were asionally some obscure ones which he did not know then he just left them there for now, nning to ask Ye Xiaoxian for helpter. Xiao Baozhu then felt hard done by. Baofeng, its really unfair for girls these days. Why on earth cant girls go to school? Look, after you go to school you have learned much more than me, but I have no choice but go to town to sell cold jelly. Well... Xiao Baofeng did not know what to answer. In fact, he indeed enjoyed more resources than Xiao Baozhu. After pondering for a while, Xiao Baofeng was obliged to console his sister. Yea, the unfairness of private school is to me. Only men are allowed to go there and not women, otherwise Sister-inw will let you go to school as well. Xiao Baozhu said again, Do you know that those novels were taken by Sister-inw from a richdy? So why can thatdy read so well and read all the novels? I heard that for richdies they asked teachers toe to their home and tutor them. So all in all, its because we are so poor. Born into such a poor family we had no opportunity to learn to read and write! sighed Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baofeng did not agree with her, so he said, But we cant choose where we are born, can we? Actually, although we are no match for wealthy families,pared to other children in our vige, we are already very lucky. Look, you have novels to read and our brother and sister-inw were teaching you reading and writing, but the next door neighbor, Mrs. Zhaos daughter, Feng, is not as lucky as you are. Xiao Baozhu had been going to town for a while after all and seeing various people, so she was not very happy hearing that Xiao Baofengpared her with Feng. Feng hasnt even gone to town once. That day was the first time that Xiao Baozhu did not help Ye Xiaoxian with dinner and Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei cooked it, but Ye Xiaoxian saw that Xiao Baozhu had rarely been interested in reading, so she then went easy on her. They were going to have fish fillets in hot chili oil and she was the only one who knew how to cook this anyhow. By dusk, Xiao Baoshan had alsoe home. Once Xiao Baoshan returned, Xiao Baozhu then pestered her brother to teach her how to read. What Xiao Baofeng did not know were obscure characters. Ordinary romantic novels did not contain many obscure characters, most of which were names of ces, and even stranger was that Xiao Baoshan knew them all. Second Brother, have you been to all of these ces? asked Xiao Baozhu confusedly. Xiao Baoshan raised his head and looked at the sky as if he had seen somewhere far faraway, but his face just sank and became silent. The fish fillets in hot chili oil that evening smelled extremely good, especially with some dried chilies and Zanthoxylum which were fried in oil, so it took no time for the fragrance to emanate out from the courtyard. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju were washing vegetables in the courtyard as well. Their husbands had monthly wages, so they were able to have a meat dish several times a month, but they were a big family after all so they did not usually stir-fry the meat but instead had to make a meat broth, and in this case everyone could taste the meat. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju smelled the fragrance of fish from next door and swallowed. Elder Sister-inw, what kind of fish do they have? It smells too strong, doesnt it? Chen Ju swallowed. Wong Mudan recalled the Pigs feet soup fromst time and dared not n anything against the second household in case they would once again drink a bowl of pot cleaning water. They must have made a pot of hodgepodge stew, right? As for fish, freshness is the most important thing and one just needs to get rid of the fishy smell by using some ginger, so who will put so many spices in it? In my opinion Little Ye is trying to make it taste very savory so they will eat more rice with fewer vegetables. Thats right! Chen Ju echoed, but continued drooling. Her five-year-old daughter, Baoxue, happened to be carrying a bowl and came over. Ma, when will the dinner be ready? Im hungry! Chen Ju was just about to say that it would not be that quick, but she nced at her daughters bowl and had a bright idea. Xue, why dont you go to your second aunties and ask them what they eat? The little girl was not yet sensible and since her mother asked her to do this, she then ran over to the second household happily. Wong Mudan gave Chen Ju a thumbs-up. Well done. You send a kid to them and although those people of the second household were mean to us they were alright to our little ones. Chen Ju replied, We dont know if it will seed or not. Lets wait for Baoxue toe back and then see. The kids in vige were all very timid and Baoxue was no exception. When she reached the kitchen door of the second household she then gazed into the kitchen with eager eyes. She saw a big dish ced on a small table. White and shiny fish slices were floating on the red soup with an inviting smell which made Baoxue dribble until her chin was wet. Ye Xiaoxian noticed Baoxue standing outside as well and saw her bring a bowl with her, so she wondered if this kid was sent here by her mother. But Ye Xiaoxian was always very generous, especially to children. She waved to Baoxue to let here in and carried two slices of fish to Baoxues bowl using her chopsticks and then said, Baoxue, the fish is spicy and hot. Dont go out, just eat it here. Baoxue obeyed, ced her little bowl on the table and used her chopsticks to eat the fish little by little. It was the first time that shed had something spicy and she found it really hot, but regardless of the spiciness, little Baoxue enjoyed the dish very much. She was panting and continuing to eat and she soon finished the two slices of fish fillets. Ye Xiaoxian put a cucumber and some bean sprouts into her bowl also. These are spicy as well, so eat slowly. Baoxue was so happy by eating all of this. Children were easy to feel full and the fish was also a bit hot, so after eating the cucumber and bean sprouts Baoxue ran out joyfully with her empty bowl. Chen Ju saw Baoxue stay in there for such a long time and called her over. Baoxue, have you eaten anything inside? Yes, I did. I ate fish, cucumber and bean sprouts. Why did...you not take something out for Ma as well? Chen Ju asked. Baoxue opened her eyes wide. Can I really do this? Forget it. They wont give anything to you again. Just go somewhere else! said Chen Ju sulkily. Baoxue then ran away. Just at that moment, Xiao Baocheng came out from his room. Wong Mudans eyes shined and she waved to Baocheng toe over. Baocheng,e here. I need you to do something for Ma. What? Xiao Baocheng asked. Go and see what goodies your second aunt is cooking. Take a bowl with you and try to take something with you, will you? Xiao Baocheng was already ten years old and had been to school, so he could tell right away that his ma must be drooling over others dinner, so he replied coldly, I wont go. Just go there yourself! He then turned around and went back to his room to practice writing characters. You... ... Wong Mudan and Chen Ju finally had an opportunity to eat fish fillets in hot chili oil that evening. The second household was obliged to take some fish to Old Mr. Xiao since they had cooked some. Old Mr. Xiao had been eating light his whole life, so by no means did he enjoy spicy food like fish fillets in hot chili oil. He spat the moment he put the fish into his mouth. What the hell is this? They made such fine fish taste like this! He then ced the fish hard into the middle of the table, suggesting that he did not care who was going to eat it. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju reached out their chopsticks immediately, like crocodiles hunting for prey, and took the fish. They took the fish to their mouth right away. Though the fish had already cooled down, it still tasted very good with the vor overwhelming their taste buds, which they enjoyed very much. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu also tried it and they all found the fish to be tasty, including Xiao Baofeng, Xiao Baoyang and other kids. Xiao Tieshu, Ju, find a moment to ask Second Sister-inw how they made it. We can make it this way next time as well. Xiao Tieshu had just finished talking when he was scolded by his father. Dont even think about it! Ill never allow this stuff to appear on my table again! ... They shared the same kitchen and could not cheat Old Mr. Xiao by cooking something else for themselves, so Wong Mudan and Chen Ju were all feeling very wronged and upset. ... The next morning. Xiao Baozhu got up very early. Her task was to make cold jelly. Ye Xiaoxian had now stopped selling shortbread, so she gave a hand to Xiao Baozhu just after she got up. She asked Baozhu, Howe you got up so early today? Xiao Baozhu hesitated. Sister-inw. I kind of dont want to go to town today...is that alright? You want to stay home alone? asked Ye Xiaoxian, confused. We all go to the town and Baofeng goes to school. If you stay home alone, what are you going to eat for lunch? Well...well, okay. As you are so hard-working, just stay at home and practice reading more! said Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian always pitied Baozhu, who was just a girl of around twelve or thirteen years old. If she was living in the modern age, she would still be getting pampered by her parents. She then began to think about herself. She was not much older than Baozhu either. She was only sixteen here and would not need to care about anything apart from school work in the modern age as well. It is all fate! Chapter 61 - She Had A Crush on Him?

Chapter 61: She Had A Crush on Him?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK After they had prepared the cold jelly, Ye Xiaoxian, Li Hongmei and Xiao Baoshan then pushed their cart and went to town. On the way to town Li Hongmeiined to Ye Xiaoxian. Xiaoxian, you shouldnt have spoiled Baozhu like this morning. If she really wants to study, she might as well bring the book to town and study while working; moreover, she can turn to you for help when she doesnt understand something, but now she stays home alone and obviously shes trying to ck off. Shes nody and, furthermore, if shes going to be known as azy woman in future then Im afraid no ones going to marry her. Ye Xiaoxian chuckled. Ma, whats the big deal? Baozhu is a sensible girl and she knows what shes doing. If she just stayed at the vige and never came out to see the world, Id believe that she was sensible. Im just afraid that she went out with us and saw the world, making her forget her position and be unrestrained. I never saw anyone talk about their own daughter in this way. chuckled Ye Xiaoxian. Li Hongmei just shook her head. ... After everyone was gone, Xiao Baozhu then read her novels at home. Once people have developed an interest in something, they will make big improvements when they focus on a subject. Once Xiao Baozhu came across some characters that she knew, she then circled them and applied them to the next paragraph. Still, it was hard for her to read a novel herself. When it reached noon, Xiao Baozhu started losing her interest and she then thought. Uh, if only I could go to private school everyday like Baofeng! Thinking about Baofeng, Baozhu suddenly wanted to go to the private school and see what it was like. She had already been to town so it was not a big deal for her to go a local private school. Baozhu set off immediately and with the description which Baofeng had given her about the ce, it took little time until she found the school. The school was peaceful and serene and she heard the pleasant sound of people reading aloud. Baozhu thought, No wonder Baofeng has made such great progress and has learned so many characters in merely half a month. It is all down to the environment. When she reached the private school, Baozhu peeked through the window into the room. Naturally, there were only boys in the ssroom. Some of them were reading, some were practicing writing characters and a few were ying around and not paying much attention. Baozhu felt so envious and wished that she could be a man. While she was watching, Baozhu suddenly heard footsteps behind her. More specifically, it was the noise of somebody treading on fallen leaves. She turned around alertly right away. However, with just one nce Baozhu froze and looked at the man in a daze. She was still holding the romantic novel about a schr who fell in love with an ordinary girl. Ye Xiaoxian had read this story to her and though Ye Xiaoxian only read a half of it, she read two paragraphs of it herself. The description in the book was as follows: Wearing a square hat, d in a white robe and holding a fan, the man had a jade-like face and a refined and cultured bearing. The man who stood in front of her was nothing but the character in the novel. What brings you here, Miss? Schr Wong asked Baozhu. Baozhus face became as red as a boiled lobster. She stuttered, I...I want to study here! Schr Wong noticed the book in Baozhus hands so he smiled and asked her, About the book in your hand... My sister-inw gave me this. She said since Ive just started learning how to read and write so Id better read a book while learning characters, helping me improve more quickly. Schr Wong saw the name of the book which was, A Spring Dream About a Gentleman . It must be some sort of romantic novel. Although Schr Wong was not interested in such novels, he had to admit that this sister-inw was really smart and knew how to guide a girl who had just started to read and write. In the near future, if she was tutored further, she would probably read some moreplicated stories. Its a good thing that you want to learn how to read but only boys are admitted to this school, but not girls. Schr Wong tried to expel Baozhu in a polite way. He put it subtly but Baozhu did not understand what he really meant. Its not that I want to study at your school. I just want to listen outside for a while and see how your students here...study. Well, my younger brother studies here as well and his name is Xiao Baofeng. Baofeng... Schr Wongs eyes suddenly shined. So, the sister-inw of yours is the one who took Baofeng to schoolst time? Mhmm, we only have one sister-inw back home! said Baozhu. Sir, you remember our sister-inw? Most of the students are forced to study here by their parents. Its rare that your sister-inw would be so generous as to send her husbands brother to school; thats why I somehow remember her. Schr Wong was too shy to admit that Ye Xiaoxian had in fact left a very strong impression on him. Baozhu finally found somemon ground with him, so she continued talking. Thats right. My sister-inw is a very nice person. She not only let my younger brother go to school but ask me also to learn to read as we can only know better when we are able to read books. Then, what does your sister-inw do? Schr Wong thought jealously, This woman, she must have her husband to support her financially or she wouldnt be willing to send her brother-inw to school. Baozhu then added, My sister-inw makes cold jelly every morning and sell them in town. She has been working hard, day and night, but we have really made some money and we at least can afford meat. By the way, my sister-inw is a good cook. What about your elder brother? How does he make a living? My elder brother works as a handyman for the government office. He doesnt earn much and we mostly depend on my sister-inw selling cold jelly, said Baozhu. Hearing what she said, Schr Wong suddenly felt great respect towards Ye Xiaoxian. There is really some girl like Ye Xiaoxian in this world who is generous, sensible, diligent and warm-hearted. If only I could marry someone like her then my life would be fulfilled. In this case, Schr Wong was not in a hurry to show Baozhu out but only said, If you want to stay outside and watch others studying then Ill allow you to do this, but do not make any noise or disturb the students inside. I see! Schr Wong had already turned around and left but Baozhu was still staring at his back in a daze. She began to find this book more and more interesting and could not help but imagine herself as the heroine of the novel. A cultured and elegant schr fell in love with amon girl and although his family was against their love, he was determined to marry her. Heehee. Im so shy. ... As it approached noon, Ye Xiaoxian went to the grocery to buy some food. She asked the owner selling chicken to save some chicken feet for her yesterday. The owner did not go back on his word and had saved all the chicken feet for her, which were more than twenty in total. When Ye Xiaoxian got the chicken feet, she then went to buy a pumpkin and some milk. As there was sugar and flour in Lord Lius kitchen, she did not need to buy any more. What she was going to make today was pumpkin steamed buns, thick pumpkin soup and crystal chicken feet. The dough for the pumpkin steamed buns needed to be tied up with string before being steamed and it would then turn into the shape of a pumpkin. Pumpkin soup and milk are appetizing and good for digestion and suitable to eat in hot weather. The crystal chicken feet, which is the most inviting dish of all of them, can be enjoyed as snacks when marinated for four hours. Liu Qianqian, as usual, was awed by Ye Xiaoxians cookery. Not only Liu Qianqian but Lord Liu could not help trying some of the dishes Ye Xiaoxian cooked, and could not stop praising her after he had tasted the food. The crystal chicken feet were nibbled clean by the father and daughter and they almost swallowed the bones. Lord Liu said, I have traveled to many ces outside when I was young but seldom have I met such a talented cook as Ms. Ye. If only she could work as a chef for us. Liu Qianqian said hurriedly, Then Ill ask her tomorrow when shees. We can pay her more so she doesnt have to do a lot of hard work such as selling cold jelly everyday. Lord Liu could not approve of it more. After all, what he ate now was her daughters leftovers, but if Ye Xiaoxian could work as a chef for their family she would also be obliged to cook for him and then he could enjoy more tasty dishes. ... When Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei came back, Baozhu was still working on the novel. Li Hongmei shouted to her several times and Baozhu just repliedzily, Oh, youre back? ... Li Hongmei was a little angry. Baozhu, whats got into you? Little Ye and I were kept busy in town for a whole day yet you havent even cooked the rice. Are you trying to let us work for you and you just eat and do nothing? Baozhu was pestered by her mom so she said, What about Baofeng? Isnt he doing nothing apart from going to school? He helped us do chores when he came home, but you? Youre the elder sister and four or five years older than him. Li Hongmei was a little cross. Baozhu found it unfair. But it was Sister-inw who let me read this book and I helped make cold jelly in the morning, didnt I? Ye Xiaoxian sensed that the mother and the daughter were going to fall out with each other so she hurried toe over and said, There, there. Ma, Baozhu, please dont argue. Now lets get ready for dinner. Ma, youre going to make a fire, Baozhu is to wash the vegetables and Ill wash the rice and get it cooked. How does this sound? Baozhu said, Sounds good to me. When Ye Xiaoxian came out and washed the rice she nced at Baozhu who was giggling while washing the vegetables and looked kind of dumb. Ye Xiaoxian felt curious. Can it be that Baozhu is overly addicted to the novel? But its just a romantic pocket book and it shouldnt make her much worse, should it? Ye Xiaoxian did not start sensing the reason until dinner. Baozhu, what did our Schr Wong teach you today? Baofeng ate dinner while asking his sister. As soon as Baozhu heard Schr Wong, she suddenly blushed. How did you know? asked Baozhu. I saw it all by the window. Schr Wong was teaching you how to read, right? Baofeng said, as if he had found an extraordinary secret. I was thinking of asking you to teach me the characters I dont know but your teacher said that only boys were allowed to study there but not girls, so that was why I was reading outside. Your teacher saw me working hard so he came out, asking me if I needed any help and also taught me some characters which I didnt know. So have you learned what he taught you? Of course I have! replied Baozhu proudly. Schr Wong... Ye Xiaoxian vaguely recalled Schr Wong in Windward Hall. He was a young man with elegant and refined manners. Could it be that Baozhu had a crush on him? It was not that surprising once she gave it some thought. Schr Wong was handsome and he must be very popr among girls. It was just that he was of very cultured bearing and must be a pretty self-contained person, and Ye Xiaoxian wondered if it was possible for him to fall for Baozhu. Never mind, it was too early to be worried about it. It did not help much for her to think too much about it. Just wait and see. If what she thought was true, she might just as well remind Baozhu when the time came. Chapter 62 - Devision of Labor Chapter 62: Devision of Labor Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Ye Xiaoxian did not anticipate that she would see Schr Wong today as they just mentioned himst night. They happened to see him in town. When Schr Wong saw Ye Xiaoxian he asked her in a tentative way, Arent you Baoshans sister-inw? We have met before. Oh, Mr. Wong! It took Ye Xiaoxian sometime to recall who this was. I aming to town to purchase some stationery and I happen to meet you here! Schr Wong looked at Ye Xiaoxian and said. Right...how do you do! Ye Xiaoxian imitated Schr Wongs tone. Schr Wong then turned to Li Hongmei. Who is this... This is Baofengs mother. Ma, this is Schr Wong, Baofengs teacher! Ye Xiaoxian introduced them to each other. Li Hongmei had very hearty characteristics and as soon as she heard that he was her sons teacher, she hurriedly asked Schr Wong to sit down. Schr Wong had not had a chance to speak while Li Hongmei had already ced a bowl of cold jelly in front of him. This era valued knowledge and featured paying respect to teachers. Li Hongmei felt an urge of giving a free bowl of cold jelly to Schr Wong or she would consider herself disrespectful to the teacher and failing Baofeng. Schr Wong was a man of letters and he was somewhat self-contained so he would not ept this bowl of cold jelly that easily. Sir, please drink it, drink it! Li Hongmei was almost tempted to feed him herself. Schr Wong could not resist her hospitality and drank it atst. Naturally, he was trying to pay for it but Li Hongmei resist to his request determinedly; furthermore, she said that as long as he would teach Baofeng well, this bowl of cold jelly was nothing. This was probably the very reason that Schr Wong was not willing to drink the cold jelly. Ye Xiaoxian who was beside them found it so amused. Schr Wong nced at Ye Xiaoxian when he took his leave. Well then...Ill buy some of your cold jelly next time around. Ye Xiaoxian only smiled. She stopped to get busy again as someone came to buy her cold jelly. Schr Wong started at Ye Xiaoxian for a while and a verse urred to him: Thou eyes fair; thy graceful flowers blooming. Simply put, it meant that beneath Ye Xiaoxians coarse clothes, there was an interesting soul hidden there. ... Working as a cook for your family? At noon, after Ye Xiaoxian cooked lunch Housekeeper Liu began to talk with her about Lord Lius n. Yes. Our master said that if youre willing to work as a cook for us, we can offer you three taels of silver per month, or...even five taels. Ye Xiaoxian was steaming sweet-scented osmanthus cakes and taro cakes when Housekeeper Liu mentioned this to her and she just smiled. Housekeeper Liu said again. Actually five taels a month is a lot of money given the average payment in Qinghe, which is several taels more than attendants in government office earn. Actually the reason Im here to talk with you about this is because my master really admires your cookery; moreover, you dont have to open up shop to sell cold jelly day by day. How long can you depend on selling cold jelly? You may not have much business once autumn ising. Still, Ye Xiaoxian did not answer. Housekeeper Liu then asked again, Ms. Ye, are you afraid that your family may not agree to it? Do you want to discuss it with Mr. Xiao back home to see if he agrees or not? Ye Xiaoxian replied, The busy farming season ising and I dont know if Ill be needed to help with work back home. Lets talk about thister. By the way, if Im busy during the farming season, I might not be able to cook here. Ill cook some more snacks whichst longer so you can let Miss Qianqian have some time by time. Right, I see! Housekeeper Liu looked somewhat disappointed. ... That day, Ye Xiaoxian came out of Lord Lius a little bitte. When she just stepped out of the gate she saw Xiao Baoshan again. With arge and tall figure he was standing at the gate quietly once more. Why are you here again? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Ma just came to find me saying you hadnt gone back, and let me toe and check. Oh, Im fine. Just it took a bit longer this time to make the pastries. I had to wait for the dough to be ready and then steam them. Kneading the pastries in shape also took time. Is it thatplicated to make pastries? The youngdy of the Lius is kind of picky. She wont eat if her food is not borated. Ye Xiaoxian smiled bitterly. Ladies are all like this, different from us poor vige girls. We got no one to spoil ourselves. Xiao Baoshan moved his lips but did not speak aloud and only walked next to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian then asked him, Are you off from work? Do you need to go back to the government officeter? Im not going to the government office. Ill just walk back home with you, said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit surprised and she did not oppose. It was the first time only the two of them went back home together. It was more than ten li (a traditional Chinese distance unit) which took nearly an hour by walking. Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit self-conscious at the beginning because he did not speak anything but when they reached the center of the town, Xiao Baoshan spotted a Tanghulu (a traditional Northern Chinese snack of candied hawthorn) stall and he asked Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, do you want some Tanghulu? Ye Xiaoxian nodded. Sure, one for me. Xiao Baoshan then went over and bought two of them. They walked while eating Tanghulu which resembled modern girls who went shopping with bubble tea in their hands. She felt more rxed in this way. Do you like it? Xiao Baoshan actually spoke to Ye Xiaoxian. Not bad. Ye Xiaoxian ate while answering. Xiao Baoshan seemed relived. Ye Xiaoxian then smiled. Whats the matter? Are you afraid that I dont like it? Because what you usually cook are delicious and Im worried that you may find this Tanghulu nd. Are you kidding? Tanghulu taste the best in this era. They are sugary and sour with fruity fragrance and sweetness, said Ye Xiaoxian. This era? Xiao Baoshan did not understand. Ye Xiaoxian then changed the topic. Well, Lord Lius housekeeper today asked me if I want to work for them as a cook. Theyll pay me five taels a month but I havent confirmed yet. Five taels a month in Qinghe County was considered a very fine payment yet Ye Xiaoxian did not say yes. Still, Xiao Baoshan replied, You must have your own n. Ye Xiaoxian smiled and asked, What kind of n do you think I have? Xiao Baoshan then looked at her with a light smile. He spoke up after a while, Though Im not sure yet, I know youre a very profound girl. Just do whatever you think is right. He then added, I will support you. Thank you! Well... Ye Xiaoxian asked. Do you do this for the sake of Ma or me your wife? Xiao Baoshan was just chewing a bead of Tanghulu so he did not speak until swallowed it and then he looked at Ye Xiaoxian, Both. ... The two of them chatted while walking and they soon reached home. ... As Ye Xiaoxian expected, Old Mr. Xiao asked all the three households to gather up that night. It was mainly about the busy farming season. As usual, men were sitting in the front and women were standing behind. Old Mr. Xiao said, Although youve been living apart, during the harvest season the tax you pay by grain is on me, so all of you must take part in this busy farming season including the second household although youve separated from us. Li Hongmei said immediately, Pa, you didnt give us any farmingnd when we decided to live apart. Havent we agreed that we pay money instead when were required to pay tax by grain. Old Mr. Xiao stared at Li Hongmei with a look of deep disappointment. Is your family Xiao or not? Are you one of the Xiaos? ... Li Hongmei murmured silently. My family is not Xiao already. Old Mr. Xiao patted his hips once more. Your man has long gone but you still live in our Xiaos house and your identities are still ssified as farmers. Dont tell me you want to be changed intomercial tenant, which is a disgraceful. I... Li Hongmei still tried to argue but Ye Xiaoxian patted her thighs to give her a hint of being quiet. Instead, Ye Xiaoxian began to speak. Grandpa, we will help with the busy farming season for sure but as you can see, my ma, I and Baozhu did most of the work in the rice field before like looseningnd and transnting. Now that the rice is ripe, its no problem for us to participate in it, but we have a request. When we are required to pay the tax by grain, our quota should be included in the total bill of the Xiaos. Wong Mudan spoke up, Are you sure? Your second household has five people so its five dou (ancient Chinese weight unit, about 15kg) in total for all of you. If you insist that we pay the tax for you, we can only pay three dou and you pay the rest by money. You damn... Li Hongmei posed, rolling up her sleeves and tried to start a fight. Still, she was stopped by Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian said decisively, If you dont pay our tax fully, we wont help with the farming work then; besides, its not eptable for you to divide the work per capita. Wong Mudan, In which way do you want to divide thebor then? Just like before, you second household harvest the rice, the first household thresh the rice and the third household dry them. Every farmer knew that harvesting was the most exhausting work than the rest procedures. If the second household was responsible for harvesting all the rice, they would not finish the work by working three days day-and-night in a roll. In this era, the yield of rice was not very high. It would already be impressive if they could gain five dou of rice per mu (Chinese area unit, about 666 squaremeters). One dou equals to thirty jin, and the Xiao family had three mu ofnd. Ye Xiaoxian said, Since this year our household can only pay the tax by grain but gain no share of rice, we can only be responsible for half of thend including harvesting, threshing and drying the rice. And as for the rest, it should be your work. Urgh, half of thend? You have no sense of shame. We might as well do it all by ourselves then, said Wong Mudan. The rest of them protested as well including Xiao Tongshu and Xiao Tieshu. Men in the Xiaos always agreed that women should do all the domestic work since it was enough for men working outside to make money. During the busy farming season, the government office gave them a three-day break and both of the two brothers would just lie down in their rooms because they felt they worked so hard in the office day by day, and during the rare break they had to take a very good rest. Not only did the women in the Xiaos have to do farming work but were obliged to take care of the two lords as well as the old one and the little ones. They were so worn out that their waists almost broke out. Old Mr. Xiao was listening to Ye Xiaoxian and Wong Mudans back-and-forth conversation and his stare at Ye Xiaoxian contained increasingly more disdain. Since all the family members had expressed themselves, Old Mr. Xiao then sneered and looked at Ye Xiaoxian. Since when women are allowed to be so talkative? You do what the men in your family tell you to. How dare you bargain with me? Hasnt Baoshan taught you how to be a wife? Chapter 63 - A Busy Farming Season Chapter 63: A Busy Farming Season Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Everyone turned to Xiao Baoshan. The reason for Xiao Baoshan being silent earlier was not that he had been absent-minded but because he had seen Ye Xiaoxian talk to the Xiaos in a manner that was neither humble nor pushy, so he wished to observe her more closely. This little woman never failed to surprise him. She was brave and decisive. Sometimes she was calm and sometimes she was witty with a trace of tenderness whichpletely challenged the stereotype of viges girls he used to think. Now, as everyone was waiting for his reply, he spoke up. I think what little Ye said is very true. Old Mr. Xiaos hands began to tremble with fury. Baoshan, you...you... Xiao Tieshu reminded him. Baoshan, you are a man. How have you be like this? Such a loser. It seemed as if Xiao Tongshu was eating sour grapes. Baoshan only earns one tael of silver per month and he still has to rely on the women in his family to go out and sell cold jelly, so naturally he has to listen to his woman. Li Hongmei whispered to Baoshan behind him, Baoshan, good job! Baoshan turned out to be a henpecked man! Wong Mudan mumbled. Chen Ju said, Good-for-nothing! Xiao Baoshan still went on, This is our second households final decision. We only help out with a half mu of thend. If Grandpa, Elder Uncle and Third Uncle agree then we will participate in the busy farming season, otherwise we will leave it all to you and well use money to pay the taxes. Old Mr. Xiao was enraged. Your second household still live in my house! Though its made of earth its still a house! Xiao Baoshan said, But we also pay you 500 coins in filial piety every month. Well... Old Mr. Xiao was not willing to let go of his 500 coins. Atst, after they had negotiated for a while, Old Mr. Xiao agreed to Ye Xiaoxians suggestion. The only thing was that Old Mr. Xiao, along with the first and third households, ended up having moreints about Ye Xiaoxian. During the busy farming season students in the private school were also offered a break of seven days in a row. The break for Xiao Baofeng was just spent helping his family with farm work. He asked his family about their arrangements and then devoted himself to this busy farming season. Xiao Baofeng was only eight but he had been helping with work in the rice field since he was five and he was now able to do any kind of farm work. Xiao Baozhu was even more reliable. Girls in the Xiao family were always in an inferior position and she was already thirteen years old. Although she had be obsessed with romantic novels recently, she knew what she should do for now. Things were quite different for the first and the third households. Although Xiao Tieshu, Wong Mudan and Xiao Baocheng were able-bodied people in the first household, Xiao Baocheng was brought up like a young master and, furthermore, Xiao Tieshu resembled his old man as both refused to do any domestic work, so the only worker in the first household was Wong Mudan. For Chen Jus household, Xiao Tongshu was just like his brother who would not do any family chores. Besides, her two children Baoyang, who was only seven, and Baoxue, who was five, did not really do any work normally, so she could not depend on them during the busy farming season. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju were deeply concerned. The two sisters-inw thought about the remaining two and a half mu ofnd. Were they really going to let these two women do all the work? s, if you ask me, I decide we shouldnt agree to living apart. Indeed, we dont have to worry about being taken advantage of by the second household, but weve got no one to do the work now, said Wong Mudan, who had only now recalled the merits of the second household. Chen Ju said, What shall we do? They cant let only two of us do all the work. Even if we want to, with so muchnd to cover, when are we possibly going to finish working? I think wed better discuss it with our men and let them give us a hand. What do you say? Though most of the men in our vige dont help out with cooking, they must go to the field during the busy farming season. Wong Mudan thought about her husband which made her scalp go numb right away. We have no other option but to give it a try and see if he is willing. It was alreadyte morning and the sun had risen far above the horizon, but Xiao Tieshu was still sleeping in the room. Wong Mudan came and called him several times. However, not only did he refuse to get up, but he also started scolding her. What the hell are you shouting for? Cant you see Im sleeping? Tieshu, today...today its time to harvest rice in the field! Then why are you standing here like a log! Hurry up and go! Xiao Tieshu rolled over and tried to get back to sleep. I didnt mean this. Tieshu, I mean...cant you help to do the work? There are two and half mu ofnd but weve only got Ju and I to do the work, said Wong Mudan in a frustrated tone. Xiao Tieshu was already bing impatient. Did you not do all the work yourselves in the past? Not really. The second household was there before and they did most of the work, but you heard yourselfst night that they only do a half mu of thend, leaving two and a half mu for us which we cant possibly do all by ourselves. Xiao Tieshu seemed to have realized at this point but still he did not get up, simply saying, Then you go first and Illeter. Well... Wong Mudan did not believe what her husband had said but she dared not say anything more and just whispered, Well... well then, you take another nap ande and join uster. Her husband in the bed did not give a single word in reply. As for the third household, what Xiao Tongshu replied was simr to Xiao Tieshu, but the only difference was that Xiao Tongshu promised Chen Ju that he would carry the harvested rice that he had asked Chen Ju to harvest first. Both of the two sisters-inw looked depressed when they came out from their rooms. Wong Mudan had no other way out so she shouted to Xiao Baocheng and asked him to give them a hand. Xiao Baocheng had never done such chores so he immediately said, in a wronged tone, Ma, please. I have never done such things before and I need to read my books now. Stop your act. Now you pretend youre reading books but I know youll go out to y as soon as my back is turned. Look at Xiao Baofeng, hes two years younger than you but went to the field early in the morning. Now look at you, cking off and beingzy. You cant possibly find a wife in the future. Ma... Xiao Baocheng was still not willing to help so he was acting like a spoiled child. Like it or lump it! Youre going! Wong Mudan ordered. Wong Mudan also thought that if things got worse she would call her eldest daughter back. Her eldest daughter had been married long time and this year was in her twenties. If her husbands family did not mind, Wong Mudan might as well call her back to help for a while. Meanwhile Chen Ju actually let her seven-year-old son, Xiao Baoyang,e over to help, though she did not pin much hope on this. ... Ye Xiaoxian had already gone to the field with her family. Although all the water had been drained from the field, when one stepped in it they would tread in a thickyer of mud, so they needed to roll up their trousers and tread barefoot through the field. While Ye Xiaoxian used to have an arduous life as a chef, she never came into a rice field, and even if she had the memory of the original owner of this body she had, after all, she never experienced such things. She just found this work very difficult and could not even stand still. She picked up the sickle and tried to cut a handful of the rice crop but half were not cut off. Li Hongmei saw Ye Xiaoxian being rather clumsy and asked her confusedly, Little Ye, what happened? You used to be good at cutting rice and capable of dealing with a whole mu ofnd on your own. Uh, I might have done too much cooking yesterday in Lord Lius and my hands feel kind of sore, lied Ye Xiaoxian. Right, I see. Why dont you take a rest and let Baoshan help you. Li Hongmei tipped him the wink. Chapter 64 - Young Lady Liu Arrives Chapter 64: Young Lady Liu Arrives Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Xiao Baoshan came near to Ye Xiaoxian and said, Let me help you. As everyone was busy working Ye Xiaoxian did not wish to enjoy any special treatment or she would look too pretentious, so she said, Id better do it myself. Ill do as much as I can and its better than idling around. Xiao Baoshan just let her be. The second household had already done half of their work and the other two households just arrived. Seeing that everyone of the second household were present and reaping the rice crops, Wong Mudan and Chen Ju looked as if they had eaten sour grapes. Once Wong Mudan came into the field she began to speak sarcastically. Oh, the one whos only responsible for a half mu of thend is surely doing her job. As far as I can see, you will finish your work by the afternoon, wont you? Li Hongmei also said, Do you want to swap? We do the two and a half mu and you do the half mu? Wong Mudans eyes shined thinking that Li Hongmei pitied her and tried to help, but Li Hongmei continued, If so, what you reaped will be used to pay the tax and the entire harvest from the two and a half mu belong to us. Bah, dream on! Wong Mudan refused right away. Li Hongmei sneered. You want to do less work but gain more of the crop. You tell me, whos daydreaming? ... Early that afternoon, Li Hongmei and her familys half mu was almost done. Due to the scorching sunshine all of the second households members were taking a rest under the shade of nearby trees and eating porridge. This was how it worked during a busy farming season. Folks did not cook breakfast or lunch but only carried a pot of white porridge and ate it with pickles. They would not cook rice unless they went home early in the evening. As for the first and third households, the only workers they had were Wong Mudan and Chen Ju. When Xiao Baocheng came over his mind was not on the work at all, and he took a much longer rest. Xiao Baoyang was seven and it was his first time doing this so he did not help much. The most absurd thing was that Xiao Tongshu and Xiao Tieshu did not show up until afternoon and they just let their women and kids exhaust themselves to death in the rice field. ... In the afternoon, by the time the sun just was going west, the second household had finished harvesting the entire rice crop. After they had done this, Xiao Baoshan divided the crop into several heaps and started beating rice into the bucket. They did not have a threshing machine at this time so they had to thresh the crop by beating the ears of rice into a bucket until the raw grains fell out. Xiao Baoshan was strong so it did not take long for him to thresh half bucket of rice. He put this half bucket of grain into a bag and then worked on the rest. It was still very hot and Xiao Baoshan kept sweating profusely until he finally removed all his clothes except for a vest which exposed his tight arms and muscled chest, causing Ye Xiaoxians little heart to flutter like butterflies. Seeing this, Wong Mudan and Chen Ju were gritting their teeth in fury. Their men came irritatingly slow while they looked very sulky and actuallyined about the work saying that it was unfit for humans. Wong Mudans fury peaked and she answered back to her husband resentfully, You dont have to do this. We can buy rice, but do you think we have the money? Xiao Tieshu was finally rendered speechless. Xiao Tongshu alsoined about his wife working too slowly, saying that the second household had done a great deal of work and were now already threshing the rice crop. Chen Ju also retorted, Baoshan has been working since dawn and what about you? Xiao Tongshu became quiet too. Since Xiao Baoshan was threshing, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei could not really help much, so they were just about to go back home to prepare dinner when a horse-drawn carriage appeared at the other end of the field. A horse-drawn carriage was rare to such vigers and was equivalent to a modern-day, fancy Mercedes-Benz. As soon as the horse-drawn carriage showed up, all the farmers stopped working and wanted to find out who was in it. The horse-drawn carriage was approaching nearer and nearer and about midway a servant came down to question a nearby farmer who pointed the direction of Ye Xiaoxian, and then the carriage continued on towards her. Ye Xiaoxian saw the character Liu on the carriage. She wondered if this was Lord Lius carriage and whether they hade to find her? Do those pastries not suit herdyships taste or do they suit her taste so well that she ate them all up? As she was wondering, the curtain of the carriage was pulled aside and somebody stuck out her head and waved excitedly to Ye Xiaoxian. Little Ye, little Ye! It is Liu Qianqian! Why is she here? Li Hongmei and Xiao Baofeng hurried and asked, Is this Lord Lius youngdy? Ye Xiaoxian answered, Thats right. Its her. But why the youngdy is so thin? Arent they rich? asked Xiao Baozhu. Ye Xiaoxian. ... All of the farmers were equally curious as to why there was a youngdy in a horse-drawn carriage with servants who hade to find the Xiao familys second household. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were making a living in town and both of them had a list in mind. They must remember who they should not provoke in the town and Lord Liu was at the top of their list, so they not only had to remember Lord Lius family but their servants and even their horse-drawn carriage. Now they were so surprised to see Lord Lius carriage actuallying here. Since when did the second household get to know such a big shot as Lord Liu? Has Xiao Baoshan secretly got on Lord Lius good side? No wonder he was so cockyst night. However, when the person inside descended from the horse-drawn carriage they were more surprised to find that Miss Liu wasnt going to Xiao Baoshan but to Ye Xiaoxian. Miss Qianqian, howe...you are here? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Ye Xiaoxian was now covered with mud with her hair was in a mess, her face sweating and looking like aplete disaster. Im here to ask you for food, said Liu Qianqian. Yourdyship, your attitude is of Let them eat cake. As you can see, we farmers were busy with farm work all day long and youre here asking me for food. Are you torturing me on purpose? said Ye Xiaoxian. You have to eat well, especially when you are working hard. Have you not told me this? You have to cook dinner anyway and it wont cost you much by cooking one more portion and, by the way, Ive brought all the ingredients for you. There are fish and various meats in the carriage which are all cleaned and pre-cut. They are ready for you to stir-fry. Ye Xiaoxian raised her eyebrows. Youngdy, youre putting pressure on me. If one day I am not here, do you not have to eat for the rest of your life? Why should I care that much? As long as youre still in Qinghe County, I wille and ask you for food. What about my payment? I wont cook for you for nothing. Old rules, five hundred coins per day. The money is here. Liu Qianqian smiled. Li Hongmei listened to them chatting and they seemed to be pretty familiar with one another. Li Hongmei also knew that the girl was a wealthy youngdy and noticed that she looked so weak as to be unable to withstand a breeze, so Li Hongmei said hurriedly, We have a guest here, shall we lead our guest back home? Just leave the farm work to Baoshan. Baoshan? Liu Qianqian was suddenly in high spirits. Isnt Baoshan little Yes husband? Which one is he? Chapter 65 - Little Ye Is Going With Me Chapter 65: Little Ye Is Going With Me Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Ye had no option but to point at Xiao Baoshan who was working in the field. Xiao Baoshan was still threshing. He was arge man and as strong as an ox. Beads of sweat were as big as peas streaming down his face with more charm added on him, which made Liu Qianqians eyes suddenly glitter. Right, Little Ye, no wonder youre not willing to work for me. It turns out that you have got such a handsome and strapping husband. Ye Xiaoxian answered hurriedly, Your Ladyship, please stop joking. Its not because of him! Not because of him? Then would you rather I say to him that I want to hire you to cook for my family and lets see if hes willing to let you go? Ye Xiaoxian thought that she had already talked about this with Xiao Baoshan and Xiao Baoshan was not that kind of person who would take the liberty to decide anything for her, so she smiled. Its up to you. She did not expect that Liu Qianqian really shouted to the field, Hey, Xiao Baoshan! Xiao Baoshan stopped beating the grain and looked towards Ye Xiaoxians direction. Baoshan, your little Ye had already agreed to be my cook. Do you agree to it? shouted Liu Qianqian. Xiao Baoshan looked at Ye Xiaoxian and only smiled lightly. I agree to what little Ye agrees. Then dont you regret. Little Ye is going back with me to town tonight! Xiao Baoshan nodded. Ye Xiaoxian said to her, Your Ladyship, if you still dont leave Im afraid I cant cook for you. Look, its going dark and arent you afraid of being harassed by hooligans. Go away, you. Even hooligans wont be interested in a skinny girl like me, but I do feel rather hungry. Lets hurry go back and cook some food. All his families had left and only Xiao Baoshan himself was still working in the field. He was beating the grain while pondering on what Liu Qianqian just said. Is little Ye really going with her to town today? Didnt she say that she got other ns? Or was she moved by Liu Qianqians sincerity? No matter what it would be the case, he respected little Yes decision. In the rice fields nearby, some vigers who overheard Liu Qianqian and Xiao Baoshans conversation began to whisper to one another, whoa, a richdy from the town turns out to be quite a bold gal. She actually flirted with Baoshan in front of little Ye. She actually got down the carriage. I thought all the richdies in town were like shutting themselves in their rooms and doing needlework and wemon people had no chance to take a look at them, but this youngdys manner is pretty coarse, isnt she? Shes no difference from the gals in our vige. She was also shouting without any hesitation. Tsk, but shes rich and rich gals shout confidently. Not like our vige gals, they just shout and howl randomly. ... Liu Qianqian indeed brought a lot of ingredients including chicken, duck, fish, meat and various seasoning, which were what Ye Xiaoxian normally used in Lord Lius kitchen. Liu Qianqian said, Im not fussy about food today. I just want to eat the fish filets in hot chili oil and sour and sweet ribs. Ye Xiaoxian watched Liu Qianqians servants unloading half a basket of meat and said, Miss Liu, what you bring is enough for two whole days. Dont tell me that youreing again tomorrow? I wont really. Just save the rest if theres any left and cook them by yourselves. My family has more. Liu Qianqian smiled. Well then, so Miss Liu is actuallying and unting her wealth! smiled Ye Xiaoxian. Liu Qianqian sized up the row of rooms made by earth and said pitifully, I cant do much really if you put it this way, and after all the living condition of yours is really bad. What my servants live are far better than yours. Youngdy, you might want to watch the way you speak or you might get beaten up someday, you see? Ye Xiaoxian reminded her kindly. I got so many servants around and who dares to beat me? said Liu Qianqian confusedly. Well, as long as youre happy. Speaking of that, my living condition is like this and I hope it wont make you lose your appetite. I wont make a fuss about this as long as I can sit down and eat. Ye Xiaoxian smiled and asked Xiao Baozhu to apany Miss Liu and she went to cook with Li Hongmei. Perhaps all the vigers had heard of this honorable guest of Xiao Family who rode in a horse-drawn carriage, so it did not take a minute when Liu Qianqians carriage was surrounded by many children. Liu Qianqian had also anticipated this situation so she let her servants to give out sweets to those children. Finally the servants shouted Theres no more sweets and go home. Those children were yet to go away but stared at Liu Qianqian who was in the courtyard. Arent richdies all white and chubby? They should look like Miss Bodhisattva in the Spring festival posters but why thisdy looks so skinny? Dunno, maybe she doesnt like eating food? Crap, theres nobody in the world who doesnt like eating food. I dont know then, or maybe shes like Uncle Baner in our vige. He always eats more than half of bucket rice everyday but he still looks like a skinny monkey, right? You has a point! It was not the first time that she had heard such gossips. She was kind of angry at the beginning and thinking if she should ask her sweets back, but Xiao Baozhu beside her also asked her a question, Miss, Miss Qianqian, why didnt you like eating before? Liu Qianqians anger had been erased right away. Because what my cook cooked is not tasty so I starved, but dont worry, I will gain my weight back very quickly because...your sister-inw is cooking for me now. Liu Qianqian swore to God that she would gain her weight back to stop those vige kids looking down on her! Miss Qianqian, your novels are great. Xiao Baozhu were obsessed with romantic novels and now she saw the owner of those books so she could not help but talk about what she read. Oh, those novels, s, they are all made-up stories. You might as well just read for fun but dont take it seriously, Liu Qianqian reminded her. Ah? They are all made up? Why? Xiao Baozhu could not believe her ears. Think about it, all those stories are about schrs who fall formon vige girls, a princess swearing love to her guard and a married man who develops affection towards his wifes younger sister. These are all craps and no such things have ever happened in real life, said Liu Qianqian in a serious tone. But if theyre not real why people should write them into novels? They are somewhat touching, asked Xiao Baozhu. They are perhaps made up to deceive young girls and after all, only unmarried little girls read those. However, I am going to write some novels and overthrow all those existing tacky stories and dont forget to read through them when I finish my work. Liu Qianqian patted Xiao Baozhus shoulders. Xiao Baozhu thought about Schr Wong so what Liu Qianqian just said sounded not convincing to her, but she felt honored by talking with a rich youngdy. With Liu Qianqians presence, Li Hongmei worried that they would not be able to eat in the room and what was more, it was not appropriate to let a youngdy cram with them in a shabby room. Li Hongmei then went to her next-door neighbour Mrs. Zhaos to borrow a table and several stools, and served the food outside in the courtyard. When the food was ready, Xiao Baoshan also arrived home with a huge bag of rice grain. Liu Qianqian saw him and teased him once more. Xiao Baoshan, little Ye is going back with me after dinner. Xiao Baoshan paused in a daze. He then carried the bag of grain to the room silently. Liu Qianqian said this twice and Li Hongmei was almost convinced so she nced at Ye Xiaoxian in confusion but Ye Xiaoxian whispered, Dont listen to her. Li Hongmei had got the idea of Liu Qianqian so she asked her as soon as Xiao Baoshan went out. Miss Qianqian, if little Ye works for you as a cook, do you provide food and amodation? Can she visit home regrly? Liu Qianqian said, Our staff only have two days-off every month and so does the cook. Then only Baozhu and I are going to sell cold jelly. Well it sounds okay to me. We can do different work and make more money. Liu Qianqian then said, Thats right. Theres no big difference for little Ye working for me or staying here. She just needs to cook some time and after cooking, she goes back to her own room and sleep alone so its no big difference for her to have a husband or not. Li Hongmei sighed. Its different alright because little Ye will have better food to manage and better room to live in your home but still, its true that she sleeps alone. ... The two of them spoke to one another until Xiao Baoshan came to join them at the table. Sometimes people should not push things too far and the more they talked, the more it sounded fake. Xiao Baoshan had already guessed what they were up to and there was a faint smile on his lips when he sat at the table. Lets hurry up and eat, and by the way, has anyone taken food to grandpa? Xiao Baofeng said, Yes I did. Grandpa doesnt like the spicy fish so I brought him ribs and rice. Good. We have a honorable guest today and hope this guest could enjoy the dinner. Xiao Baoshan nced at Liu Qianqian. Enjoy, yea, I will enjoy. The most enjoyable thing is Im going to take little Ye with me tonight and I couldnt enjoy it more, said Liu Qianqian. Xiao Baoshan smiled lightly again. Ye Xiaoxian looked at Xiao Baoshans expression and she could tell that Liu Qianqian and Li Hongmei had overdone their acting. She knew that Baoshan was clever enough to just sit there quietly, watching the show without revealing them. ... Wong Mudan and Chen Ju came back home after dark. They were both physically and mentally exhausted. When their men went to the field, they worked alright because all the rice fields in the vige were connected, so if they cked off in the field, they would be gossiped by other vigers. However, the two brothers were not willing to help and every time Wong Mudan and Chen Ju made single mistake, the two men wouldin the hell out of them. When they just stepped in home they smelled the fragrance of fish. It was the fish filets in hot chili oil that they tastedst time with another dish, sweet and sour ribs. Looking at their own home, since everyone went out to work and they only had half pot of white porridge left and pickles. Seeing this, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu started again and children were crying for food. Wong Mudan had no other way out but turned to Ye Xiaoxian, asking her if they had any leftover to feed the children first and the adults could wait. Ye Xiaoxian was an easygoing person and they happened to have some food left so she agreed right way but she also said that those leftover were only enough for children but not for adults. Wong Mudan breathed a sigh of relief and then went to cook food for adults with Chen Ju. They were so worn out that their waist was nearly broken. ... Although Ye Xiaoxian did not go with Liu Qianqian, Xiao Baoshan still somehow worried. That night, when Ye Xiaoxian washed dishes alone in the courtyard Xiao Baoshan joined her as well. Ye Xiaoxian said hurriedly, Why are you here? Didnt we ask you to take a rest? You alone threshed so many rice grain and you must be tired. Dont worry, Im not tired! as Xiao Baoshan replied, he took the bowl Ye Xiaoxian just rinsed and washed it clean. One was washing and the other was rinsing, which looked rather harmonious. Xiao Baozhu was trying to give a hand but when she saw there was no ce for her to squeeze in, she went back to her room hurriedly. They day had bepletely dark and they could only borrow the moon light to wash dishes. Neither of them spoke and they only touched each other a bit while passing the bowls. Under the blurry light of the night, their contact with each other was also blurred which made this night rather romantic. ... The next day, Wong Mudan once more got up at daybreak. They had not reaped half of the rice crop and they must finish them all by the end of today. Once she thought that they had to thresh after harvest she then sighed and wondered when would such a life end? She was kept working a whole day yesterday so she had a mood this morning and woke up Xiao Tieshu early in the morning. Xiao Tieshu was also exhausted by working yesterday so he was not happy to get up, but Wong Mudan decided not to put up with his willfulness but forced him to get up. Wong Mudan almost cried, We have so much field and if both of you and third brother dont go there to help, the whole vige willugh at you! Men are meant to do great things and how can we do such chores everyday? Whats wrong about those chores? The work in the rice field is the greatest thing waiting to be done and so many people in our families need feeding. Do you wish to starve to death the next half of the year? Give me a minute! Xiao Tieshu tried to fall into sleep again. No way, look at Baoshan, he went to the grain-sunning ground early at dawn to dry the grain! Baoshan, Baoshan and you keep nagging me with his name. Do you hate me? Huh? I at least make more money than him. You...Xiao Tieshu, I dont want to speak nonsense to you today. Anyway, you get up and work right away! ... There was a terrible fighting going on in the first household and the third household was in the same situation. The only difference was that Chen Ju was not good at fighting and she was not used to shouting. She was only crying with tears which made Xiao Tongshu feel so annoyed that he was forced to get up. The first and third households were finally going out but when they went out, Wong Mudan saw Ye Xiaoxianbing her hair under the eaves and she asked Ye Xiaoxian, little Ye, dont you go to the field today? Ye Xiaoxian replied subconsciously, We have done our quota, havent we? You dont go to town to sell cold jelly either? I dont think there will be anyone stilling and buying cold jelly during the farming season, so were off today. There was a farming season break going on and there would not be many people in town. Ye Xiaoxian nned to open up shop after the break. Wong Mudan asked randomly, Since youre free now, how about helping us harvest rice crop in the field? Wed rather not. Its hot down there, said Ye Xiaoxian frankly. Wong Mudan was almost choked to death. Chapter 66 - Have I Got Your Heart Chapter 66: Have I Got Your Heart Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Since this Ye Xiaoxian had remarried to Xiao Baoshan she hadpletely changed. If it was in the past she would not dare say no to what I ordered her to do but now...huh, shes more spoiled than a rich youngdy in the town. Wong Mudan actually felt thankful to Ye Xiaoxian for sparing the children some leftoverst night but since Ye Xiaoxian refused her now, the little bit of gratitude of her had once for all been erased. It was just some leftover, wasnt it? Baocheng, Baoyang and Baoxue are her cousins and whats the big deal for them to eat some of her food? ... This was a big grain-sunning ground in Daliang Vige and after vigers threshed the rice crops they would take them here to dry. The principle of doing farm work for vigers was the earlier, the better; besides, the grain-sunning ground was not big enough for all the families of the vige to dry their crops so they had toe earlier to upy a good ce, so although Xiao Baoshan hade early in the morning there were already quite a few vigers drying their grain. When the tall andrge Xiao Baoshan appeared with a big bag of rice on his shoulders, all the vigers started staring at him. There were a lot of gossips about Xiao Baoshan in the vige. Some said he escaped from the battlefield. The war in the north was at its critical time and men were wanted yet he came back at this time, so except for being cowardly what else would he be? Some said that he had long left the military but hang around with gangs and the head of the gangs was finished off by others so he came back. Some even said that he had eaten too much in the military and the military could not afford his expense and that was why he came back. What was more, Xiao Baoshan married his sister-inw, little Ye, when he just came back, so the vigers tended to gossip about him more behind his back. Xiao Baoshan found an empty ce in the grain-sunning ground, put his grain down, poured them slowly onto the ground and spread them up evenly. He had just done spread his grain and saw an elder called Uncle Chen shouldering his grain anding. This Uncle Chen had a son but he died before he even got married and two years ago Uncle Chens wife had gone too, and he farmed all hisnd by himself. Uncle Chen looked that he had strained himself by carrying the grain. Seeing this Xiao Baoshan came to Uncle Chen and helped him to put down the bag of grain. Let me! said Xiao Baoshan. Uncle Chen felt surprised and ttered, looking at Xiao Baoshan in a puzzled manner. Xiao Baoshan seemed not to be needing the slightest effort to carry this bag of grain. Not only did he help Uncle Chen unload it but spread the grain on the ground tidily. Bao, Baoshan, thank you, said Uncle Chen gratefully. Youre wee. Xiao Baoshan replied precisely. ... He just sorted Uncle Chen out and there was a Granny Wonging over with grain on her shoulders. This Granny Wong was a pitiful woman too. She had two sons and two daughters-inw but the two sons had long split and lived apart in a raw and both of them treated her as a burden, so they only offered her half mu ofnd and left her to die alone. Granny Wong was also struggling to carry her bag of grain and Xiao Baoshan gave her a hand too. Under the shades of the trees nearby many vigers were resting there and guarding their own rice grain. They saw that Xiao Baoshan actually helped Uncle Chen and Granny Wong and they could not help chattering. Dont they say that Xiao Baoshan was a man who disdains to recognize his kinsmen? The elder Mrs. Xiao nee Wong was scolding him yesterday, saying folks in the second household are the most selfish ones and they wouldnt give a hand to them when they were nearly exhausted to death. But I heard that when the second household originally lived apart they did not get any field but theyve now somehow gained half mu of field, but with such a little field Im afraid they could just barely cover the taxes, am I right? If you ask me, the elder Mrs. Xiao has upied so muchnd and she still got her husband and why should the second household help her? Youre right there and I find Xiao Baoshan very warm-hearted. ... It was quite a strange thing if you thought about it because in the past no one dared to speak to Xiao Baoshan, but since they saw him help Uncle Chen and Granny Wong, some of them who cameter felt more daring to ask Xiao Baoshan to give them a hand if they were in need. Xiao Baoshan was not talkative though, he helped them as much as he could and then went back to the shade silently to guard on his own familys rice grain. Surprisingly he had gained much appraise from vigers this day. ... Ye Xiaoxian did not idle around when she stayed at home. Xiao Baofeng and Xiao Baozhu were practicing writing and Ye Xiaoxian was tidying up the courtyard and cooking along with Li Hongmei. Meanwhile, Chen Jus little daughter Baoxue came back from the field with a crying face. There was no one in the third household and Baoxue dared not to go to Old Mr. Xiao so she went to find Ye Xiaoxian. Second Sister-inw... she hadnt finished talking but started to cry with tears. Baoxue, whats wrong? Ye Xiaoxian could not bear to watch kids crying without pitying them so she hurriedly came to her and med her down. Pa and Ma were fighting in the field and Pa even hit my brother saying he cked off in work, boohoo... Baoxue continued crying. Ye Xiaoxian thought that it must be for the reaping thing that Xiao Tieshu and Chen Ju had an argument and Baoyang became their doormat. But why youve run back? Baoxue only cried, I dont know how to work and Ma said shed rather not see me there and let me get lost. Puff! Ye Xiaoxian chuckled but she then found it a bit mean so she held herughter back. She fetched two sweets Liu Qianqian brought yesterday and inserted them to Baoxues hands and said, Dont cry already. Why not having some candy? You might as well want to be lost in my ce, what do you say? Baoxue nodded seriously. Ye Xiaoxian went back to the kitchen and cooked while Li Hongmei who was making a fire asked Ye Xiaoxian worriedly, I say shall we go down to the field to give them a hand? They were... Li Hongmei had a sharp tongue but a soft heart. Ye Xiaoxian smiled slightly. Ma, we dont have to. It was actually a test for them and if they can manage to survive from this busy farming season, the lives of the two aunts can more or less be easier than before. If they cannot survive, even if we help them out this time we cant help them every time so leave them to their fate. I...Im just afraid that others in the vige will talk. This is our own life and we dont live it for others and why should we care. Ye Xiaoxian scorned. Li Hongmei gave it a thought and found it rather correct. Ever since little Ye went to do business in town, she became more and more confident. Something suddenly urred to Li Hongmei and she said hurriedly, Little Ye, Baoshan was drying rice grain in the grain-sunning ground and he wont be back at noon. Do you want to take the meal to him? Well... Ye Xiaoxian hesitated. There must be a lot of people in the grain-sunning ground. Youre afraid of others talking? Have you just said that we live our own life and not for others so why should you mind them? Li Hongmei quoted little Yes remark to silence her. Ye Xiaoxian could only reply, Right, Ill take the meal to him. ... Ye Xiaoxian carried a lunchbox to the grain-sunning ground. Rice was the life of farmers and they were keeping a close eye on every grain of rice and not even a sparrow was allowed to peck a grain. So the grain-sunning ground was packed. Ye Xiaoxian became the topic of the chattering as soon as she approached to the grain-sunning ground because she nearly married twice and she argued to live apart from other Xiaos once she got married; moreover, she dared to go to town to do business. There were many gossips about her in the vige. Some said she was a coquettish doxy with no shame and she should die soon; some said that she was an unusual woman and very rare and they admired her. Of course people with the former idea are in the majority. Ye Xiaoxian was sometimes stared by others in a strange way but it was the first time for her being watched publicly as if she was a clown. She was fine though. She had participated in quite a few cooking contests in her previous life and there were tens of thousands of audience watching her in some big-scale contests. She was a people person so by no means would she feel afraid of those vigers. She was searching for Xiao Baoshan in the crowd. How strange. So many people had been staring at her and Xiao Baoshan should have long spotted her but why did hee out? While she was looking for him, at the moment, Uncle Chen who was helped by Xiao Baoshan stood up and asked Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, are you here to bring food for Baoshan? Yes, have you seen him? asked Ye Xiaoxian politely? He asked me to help him guard the rice and then he went to the rear of the mountain and I wonder if he was going to hunt? Hunting? Ye Xiaoxian found it very possible. Why dont you go home first? Ill tell Baoshan you dropped by when he goes back, said Uncle Chen warm-heartedly. Fine, thank you very much and sorry about troubling you with the rice, replied Ye Xiaoxian smilingly. Uncle Chen paused and only found this little Ye very polite who shared not a trace of simrity of the one others had gossiped. After Ye Xiaoxian left others in the grain-sunning ground asked Uncle Chen, Uncle Chen, what did Baoshans wife say to you? She said thank you to me, said Uncle Chen loudly. Huh, shes pretty polite then. Surely she is. They are both good kids, sighed Uncle Chen emotionally. ... Xiao Baoshan went to the mountain before noon. He did not really worry the rice in the grain-sunning ground. All the vigers seemed afraid of him so who dared to steal his grain? He once more shot some hares in the mountain this day. He could have hunted more with his skill but he was afraid that his families would worry about him so he went home earlier with his prey. Baoshan, you hunted hares again? Li Hongmei was washing pot in the courtyard and felt surprised when she saw her son went back carrying some wild hares. No wonder little Ye Xiaoxian could not find him when she took his lunch for him. Yea, Ma, I shot some wild hares. Is there anything to eat at home? Xiao Baoshan was long starving. Ye Xiaoxian happened to be in the kitchen, seeing that Xiao Baoshan came back and looking starving, so she hurriedly went to get the food in the lunchbox. This food was saved for him and no one touched it. Li Hongmei saw both of them were in the kitchen so she said immediately, Then Ill wash the hares. She then dashed away. The food has gone cold. Shall I reheat it for you? Ye Xiaoxian hold the food and asked. Dont worry. Its hot now so itll be fine, said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian always put more oil in the food she cooked so the cold ribs looked kinda greasy, but Xiao Baoshan did not care at all, mixing rice and dishes together and tucked in. Seeing that he was wolfing down the food Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit pity for him. Is it enough? We still got some porridge in the wok or shall I stir fry some vegetable for you? Its enough and Im good. Then...Ill cook hare meat for you tonight, said Ye Xiaoxian again. I was going to hunt hares just for eating the hare meat you cook. Xiao Baoshan smiled. Oh? Is it? Ye Xiaoxian was suddenly in the mood of teasing him. As an old saying goes, if a woman wants to grab a mans heart she must grab his stomach first. Do you mean I have grabbed your stomach? ... Xiao Baoshan who was eating like a wolf suddenly stopped. Chapter 67 - Everyone Wants To Get A Share Chapter 67: Everyone Wants To Get A Share Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Ye Xiaoxian stared at him boldly with a pair of half-smiling eyes. Her lips were slightly curved and her head half raised, which made her little face looked irresistibly charming. Xiao Baoshan pondered for a while and finally spoke up. Yes, your cooking is delicious. Ye Xiaoxian continued, So does this mean that Im half way to stealing your heart? ... Xiao Baoshan was swallowing his meal and eating so fast that he choked on it, causing him to cough severely. Ye Xiaoxian hurriedly patted him on the back until he could breathe normally. s, its impossible for someone like me to get on your good side. I give up. Take your time eating in case you die choking! After she had finished talking she left the room. Humph, Im in a good mood so I was just teasing you. Thats all. You really think I like you that much? Meanwhile, Xiao Baoshan, sitting inside the room, gazed dumbly towards Ye Xiaoxians back. He seemed to have missed something. ... It would only take two days for Xiao Baoshans rice grain to be dried and the break from the busy farming season had ended. Although Xiao Baoshan was just a handyman he was supposed to go back to work. Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei went to town to sell cold jelly as usual. Xiao Baofengs break had not ended and Xiao Baozhu was busy learning how to read, so the two siblings were staying at home. Since Wong Mudans rice crop had been harvested she was also now preparing to dry her rice grain. Before going out she saw Xiao Baozhu reading a book under the eaves, so she said sourly, Ah, Baozhu is also reading a book. Could it be that your second brother asked you to do this? The one whos gone out and seen the world is indeed different from us. Xiao Baozhu always hated this elder aunt and hated her even more after having lived apart. Its my sister-inws idea. Little Ye? No way! Whats she after? She just let you idle about at home while she exhausts herself to death with your ma? Is it worth it? Xiao Baozhu thought, Is this any of your business? Still, she replied insincerely, It was not that busy selling cold jelly. Since they spoke about selling cold jelly Wong Mudans interest had been aroused. Baozhu, you must have made a lot of money selling cold jelly, havent you? Youre eating fish and meat everyday. Xiao Baozhu knew that she should not reveal the truth to others so she answered, Not really. We can at most afford some meat. Youre kidding. Arent you all wearing new outfits? Maybe some clothes, but thats all. Xiao Baozhu just hoped that Wong Mudan would leave right now. Wong Mudans questions were endless, however. After inquiring about the cold jelly stand she inquired about Liu Qianqian. Baozhu, who was that rich youngdy that came the other day? She seemed very wealthy. She was riding in such a luxurious carriage, with even five or six servants apanying her. That was Lord Lius elder youngdy! Xiao Baozhu started feeling very proud of herself after speaking about Liu Qianqian. She had not only gone to town to the see the world but also talked to young Lady Liu. How did you manage to get involved with young Lady Liu? asked Wong Mudan confusedly. What do you mean by saying managing to get involved with her? It was young Lady Liu herself who managed to know us, okay? She likes our cold jelly and asked my sister-inw to cook for her. Thats why we are familiar with each other. It still shows how sessful your cold jelly is. Wong Mudan was back to the topic of selling cold jelly again. Its OK. Xiao Baozhu did not want to talk to Wong Mudan at all. She was reading very intensely. She had learned far more characters than before and even when she asionally came across a few that she did not know, she could still manage to read along. Wong Mudan stopped her inquiring. After listening to what Xiao Baozhu said she suddenly had a brilliant idea. ... Wong Mudan went to the grain-sunning ground to guard her rice, but she had not been there long until she was told that someone back home was looking for her. She hurriedly asked some nearby people to keep an eye on the grain while she went back home in a rush. Zhu? Howe youre here? Wong Mudan saw her second younger brother, Wong Zhu, who was sitting in the courtyard just as she arrived home. We ughtered a pig a couple of days ago and ma asked me to take some pork to you, said Wong Zhu. Pork! Wong Mudan exploded with joy. Weve ughtered a pig back home? The boar we kept the year beforest. Wong Mudan was feeling pleased. They could have plenty of pork for dinner tonight. Sister, I heard that the second household of your family has lived apart? Wong Zhu asked. Wong Zhu was about thirty-five years old with an intelligent appearance and was a jack of all trades in his daily life. Despite not being in the same vige as his sister he had long since figured out what happened there. Yes, they brought it up and it benefits us. They wont get a chance to eat our pork this time, said Wong Mudan. But I heard that theyve been better off and even gone to town to sell cold jelly. Is this true? asked Wong Zhu. Once Wong Zhu mentioned this matter, Wong Mudan lowered her voice. Zhu,e inside, I have something to tell you. Whats up, sister? Its getting mysterious, enquired Wong Zhu once they were in the room. Wong Mudan still looked as if she was afraid of being overheard and stuck her head out to check again before closing the door. After she had made sure that there was no one eavesdropping she then shut the door. Zhu, since you already know that the second household go to sell cold jelly in town, Ill let you know that theyve made quite a lot of money doing so. They not only have meat to eat everyday but have all got new clothes. Wong Zhu said, Thats something! Theres far more. They even know a rich lord in the town and the lords daughter rode into our vige in a horse-drawn carriage the other day and all the vigers saw it. It was quite a scene and they were so proud of themselves. Wong Zhus attitude appeared quite indifferent. If they want to be proud of themselves, just let them be. If they are better off, maybe you can gain some advantage from their profit, right? Zhu, why are you so slow-witted? Ive told you so much. Do I look like I only want to gain some advantage from their profit? What do you want then, Sister? asked Wong Zhu. Wong Mudan seemed as if she were telling an extraordinary secret. Zhu, Ive been watching them make cold jelly all the time. Its actually very easy to make. Ill tell you how to do it and you can find a time to open up a shop in town to see if you can rece them. Are you sure it will work? Why not? They are not the only ones allowed to sell cold jelly, are they? As long as you can make cold jelly you can sell it, but dont tell others that it was me who taught you this, Wong Mudan urged solemnly. Sister, if I go to sell cold jelly do you think others wont know its you who taught me this? If they ask you, just tell them youve taught yourself. Wong Zhu scratched his scalp and hesitated. Wong Mudan was disappointed with him being like this. Zhu, think about it, if you sell it well all the other rich people in town will be queuing up to buy your cold jelly and youll be proud of yourself by then, so you wont worry about Lan looking down on you. In speaking of Lan, Wong Zhu was tempted to go for it. Lan was his wife and her parents were somewhat well off, so she somewhat looked down upon Wong Zhu. Every time they had an argument she would say that she married Wong Zhu because she had been blind. Especially when Wong Zhu was almost middle-aged now and he could only make ends meet with rice grain in the field and peanuts nted in the mountains. Fine, Ill go back and talk to Lan. Sister, tell me the method of making cold jelly first. Wong Mudan answered right away. Okay, Ill teach you but we have to make a deal first. After you make some money you have to share some of your profit with me so I can save up and buy meat for the kids now and then. Sure! ... Two dayster, there was a new cold jelly stand being opened up near Ye Xiaoxians and a couple were touting loudly. One bowl of cold jelly was just one copper coin and they were obviously here trying to undercut Ye Xiaoxians business. Li Hongmei looked at the owner of this stand and said, Howe they look so familiar? Ma, You know them? Are they from our vige? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Itlle back to me, said Li Hongmei. Then she exined, Ive met so many people. I really cant recall who they are at the moment. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Ma has indeed seen the world. No matter who they are, they are some thick-skinned bitches, thats all. Theyreing to undercut us but havent they heard of the bridgehead old mans miserable end? said Li Hongmei sulkily. However, Ye Xiaoxian had been silent for a while and her face was rather grave. Little Ye, why are you being silent? Is there anything on your mind? asked Li Hongmei. Ye Xiaoxian said, The bridgehead old man cannotpete with us because the cold jelly he sells is junk, but what the newly opened stand sells is identical to ours. It was, after all, not difficult to make cold jelly. As long as one used the right ingredients with the correct method of rubbing the Chinese mesona, the cold jelly would turn out simr. Identical? Have they watched us make it? Do they know how we make it? Li Hongmei was taken aback. All in all, they are a threat to us. What should we do then? Ye Xiaoxian clenched her jaw. Well reduce the price as well! Then we wont make any money today. Ye Xiaoxian said, We have no option but to hold onto our customers first. Ye Xiaoxian thought for a while and chose to do two for the price of one. Naturally, the touting thing was still left to Li Hongmei. The couple shouted around, Everyonee and taste our cold jelly, two coins for others but only one coin for ours! Li Hongmei also shouted at the top of her lungs. Cheaper price for better produce. ssic and tasty. The Xiaos Cold Jelly, two for the price of one today! Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian had been selling cold jelly here for a long time and they had many regr customers. Li Hongmei would tout heartily to every familiar face she saw and also chatted with them. Ah Aunt, your grandson seems even taller. Do you fancy a bowl of cold jelly? Two for one today. One for you and one for him, isnt that nice? Uncle, youre earlier today, arent you? Do you want two bowls of cold jelly? Enjoy yourself to the full. Uh, arent you the boss selling cloths? Anything good happen to you today? And look at you, youre radiant. Want some cold jelly? Two for one. The customers would prefer to see the traders being passionate and sweet. Even if some people were not very thirsty at the moment, they could not resist Li Hongmeis hospitality and her two for one, so they might as well buy two bowls to enjoy. Wong Zhu and his wife Lan did not expect that Ye Xiaoxian actually would be willing to reduce their price and that Li Hongmeis fighting capacity was so formidable. Their original ambition had been gradually worn away and they ended up feeling quite upset. Lans parents were from a well-to-do family and she was used to ordering others around back home, so she could not get into the cold jelly business as passionately as Li Hongmei. After Li Hongmei snatched two of her customers she could only feel angry. Chapter 68 - Working Hard Enough? Chapter 68: Working Hard Enough? Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK The most upsetting thing to Lan was that Li Hongmei had snatched the two customers right in front of her eyes. They were about to reach her stand but Li Hongmei talked them away. Lan then let her fury out on Wong Zhu. Why cant you work harder to sell cold jelly? Am I not working hard enough? asked Wong Zhu. Didnt you tell me that you could undercut their business by lowering the price? I, I...if I have no option, Ill reduce the price once again! Id rather make no money today but I must sell the cold jelly. Lets wait and see, said Wong Zhu sulkily. So Wong Zhu continued to lower his price to one coin for two bowls. People of course would rather buy things at a lower price. When two prices are simr they may consider doing a favor for Li Hongmei, but Wong Zhu had undercut the price too much so even their return customers stopped buying Ye Xiaoxians cold jelly. This pair of bitches. Theyre really annoying me. Theyre after us! Li Hongmei stood akimbo intending to go to argue with them. She was stopped by Ye Xiaoxian. Ma, we dont want othersugh at us. What should we do then? Well just do what we can! said Ye Xiaoxian. Ill go to Lord Lius to cook for them and Ill give half bucket to their staff. Ma, you keep an eye to our business here. As long as youre here they wont dare to go back to their original price and unless they do they wont make any profit. But...shall we just let them snatch our customers away? asked Li Hongmei. Ye Xiaoxians eyes went dim. Surely not. Ma, just wait. Wait till tomorrow and Ill deal with them! Ye Xiaoxian carried half of the cold jelly to Lord Lius and gave it out to the staff as a token of her friendship. She then cooked for Liu Qianqian but she did not chat to her this time, leaving right away after Nanny Wong had served them. Ye Xiaoxian went to the government office first. It was just past noon and Xiao Baoshan should still be taking a rest outside. As she expected, the moment she got there she saw Xiao Baoshan under the shade of a tree. She was about to walk towards Baoshan when she saw Yaer taking food to them. Ye Xiaoxian still remembered thatst time, when Yaer had brought food to Baoshan, she paused briefly in front of him and nced at him tentatively, but this time she did not. She just inserted the pancake and the buns into his hands and left hurriedly. Ye Xiaoxian then walked to Xiao Baoshan and shouted to him, Baoshan! When Xiao Baoshan saw Ye Xiaoxian all of his buddies saw her too and they acted as if they had never seen a woman in their lives. They made a fuss once they saw her. Baoshan, this is your little bride? Isnt she the one who sells cold jelly? No wonder Yaer... The one who said this was nudged by the other next to him, so he shut up. But Xiao Baoshan walked towards Ye Xiaoxian and lowered his head to her. Have you just left Lord Lius? Yeah. Is there anything you want me to do? So I cant find you unless theres something I want you to do? smiled Ye Xiaoxian again. She thought Xiao Baoshan would feel awkward but he said decisively, Of course you can, anytime. It was Ye Xiaoxian who felt awkward this time. She hurriedly told Xiao Baoshan why she came. Baoshan, do you know where they sell millstones? The type for grinding tofu. Do you want to buy one? Yeah, I want to buy one to make bean jelly (long-boiled soft beancurd, a kind of Chinese snack, either savory or sweet), said Ye Xiaoxian. She thought Xiao Baoshan would ask her the reason but he in fact did not ask anything, only saying, I know where to get one. What size do you want? I can get it for you and carry it back. Ye Xiaoxian gestured the rough size and Xiao Baoshan immediately got her idea. Chapter 69 - Soft And Silky Douhua

Chapter 69: Soft And Silky Douhua

Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Xiao Baoshan went to buy a millstone and Ye Xiaoxian went to buy soy beans. She began grinding the soy beans once she got home. Li Hongmei thought she was going to make tofu but it turned out that Ye Xiaoxian made half of bucket of douhua. After the douhua was ready to eat Ye Xiaoxian served some melted brown sugar together and let Li Hongmei and others taste it. Ah, little Ye, this douhua...it tastes better than any other that Ive eaten before. Howe you are so skillful? You actually can do everything. Li Hongmei was joyfully surprised. Xiao Baoshan had a few spoonfuls and also praised Ye Xiaoxian. Soft and silky, so delicious. Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng could not even stop eating and continued to eat two or three bowls. Little Ye, a lot of our customers were snatched by them, so do you n to sell douhua instead and stop selling cold jelly? Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Of course not. We are selling both douhua and cold jelly. Ill teach anyone who tries to undercut our business a lesson! ... The next day, in town. Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei took a jug of douhua and a bucket of cold jelly to town and opened up their stand. Wong Zhu and Lan also arrived a short timeter. Although Wong Zhu and Lan had sold a lot of cold jelly yesterday, they sold them one bowl for one coin and two for one, so they had made no profit. When they calcted the money they had made it was not even enough to cover the sugary water. They thought that Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei would not show up today but they had actually alreadye. What was more, Ye Xiaoxians cold jelly was free today! Li Hongmei began touting the moment they opened up. Tasty douhua, hot and spicy douhua! Two coins for one bowl of douhua. Buy one bowl of douhua and get a bowl of cold jelly for free! Cold jelly is free! Cold jelly is free! Buy one bowl of douhua, get one bowl of free cold jelly. Chubby manager, this is our new produce, douhua. I guarantee that once you taste it you wont stop eating. Buying one bowl is too cheap to be cheated so why dont you have a try. ... Chubby manager was the leader of all the foodies in this street. As long as he found something tasty others nearby would think it was worth giving it a try. Seeing the soft and silky douhua made by Ye Xiaoxian, chubby manager could not resist and came over to buy one bowl, and Ye Xiaoxian served another bowl of cold jelly to go with it right away. Chubby manager ate the douhua first. There were peddlers passing by who sold douhua from time to time and chubby manager had tried several, but it was the first time that he had tried such a silky and smooth one. He could not help but gave Ye Xiaoxian a thumbs up, then stroked his protruding belly and left satisfied. Meanwhile, others nearby saw chubby manager eating with great satisfaction so they also followed suit and bought one bowl each. Besides, buying one bowl of douhua got one bowl of free cold jelly. what a great deal. ... Wong Zhu and Lan opposite them witnessed that Ye Xiaoxians business had done well again while they had only sold ten or so bowls of cold jelly at the price of one coin per bowl, two for one. Lan was enraged again. She wanted to fight them but she was afraid so she could only let out her anger on Wong Zhu. Look at them, look at them. They have so many tricks. No wonder theyve been able to sell cold jelly for such a long time in town. Wong Zhu, you cant possibly beat them. Wong Zhu said, They have only added some douhua, havent they? Ill make it as well tomorrow! You dont even know how to grind tofu and you dare to think about making douhua? Even if you make it, can yourspete to theirs? Dont you hear what they say about their douhua? Everyone says its so tasty. Wong Zhu said, Then Ill let my sister have a close look at how they make douhua and maybe I can make some as tasty as theirs. Forget it. That little slut seem to be very good with her hands. You learn how to make douhua tomorrow and theyd sell rice noodles instead. Can you beat her? Good-for-nothing, youre bound only to dig out food from the ground! What is wrong with digging out food from the ground? Wong Zhu found working in the field quite promising. You dare to retort? Im leaving. I cant stand such insults anymore, but youre staying. Either you sell the cold jelly or give it away for free, you cant take it back home. I shouldnt have gone out with you in the first ce. Why did I not just sew cloth soles for shoes peacefully back home? I could have made some money out of that! Lan went home miserable. Wong Zhu stayed but he was in very low spirits. Li Hongmei in contrast opposite him was energetic and cheerful while he bowed his head in sorrow. He atst had to sell five bowls for one coin and then managed to sell some. However, it was barely enough for covering the money he paid for the sugar. Wong Zhu was really depressed today and he swore that from tomorrow onwards he would nevere to town again, ever. Even if he should starve to death he would note to town to do business at all. ... Ye Xiaoxian continued to sell douhua. Although Wong Zhu did not return anymore she did not raise the price back but continued to sell one bowl of douhua with free a bowl of cold jelly. It was nearly autumn anyhow and as it got colder, there would not be many customersing for douhua. Other than selling douhua and cold jelly she also went to cook for Liu Qianqian everyday. Liu Qianqian suffered from anorexia in the beginning but now she had dishes cooked by Ye Xiaoxian every single day and always ate them happily, together with snacks and cakes. She had already gained back her weight and was no longer the fragile youngdy from before. ... Even if Ye Xiaoxian did not cook for her, Liu Qianqian would also eat normally but she preferred Ye Xiaoxians cooking. On this day, as Ye Xiaoxian walked out from Lord Lius, passing by the towns main street, she spotted a restaurant that was to let. The restaurant was in a good location and there were many people around this street. In this instance, if a restaurant did not have much business there were only two reasons: the first was that their food were not tasty and the second, that their manager was badly in need of money. Ye Xiaoxian went in and saw that there were seven or eight tables inside but only two tables were upied and all of the customers were from out-of-town. So sluggish, it must be that their food is bad. Miss, are you here to have some food? A middle-aged man came to serve her. Well, I saw a to let notice outside, so I came here to ask if this restaurant is up for rent? asked Ye Xiaoxian. The middle-aged mans eyes were glittered. Thats right. It is. This restaurant is in a good location and we have so many customers. If I werent so badly in need of money, I would never give it up. Nonsense, there are so few customers! Ye Xiaoxian did not expose his lies but simply asked, So how much is it? The middle-aged man said, Ten taels of silver. Ten taels? That much? Ye Xiaoxian was taken aback. Miss, you can see yourself. Our tables and chairs are all brand new and look at the street outside, so many people are out there. Our location is top notch, so ten taels is worth it. Weve had several people inquiring in the morning so you have to be quick if you really want it, or Ill have to give it to others. The middle-aged man sized up Ye Xiaoxian while he was talking. He saw that Ye Xiaoxian wore very in clothes so he suspected that she may have just felt bored and came in to ask randomly, so his attitude became colder. Ye Xiaoxian then said, I dont have the final say. I have to ask my husband back home. Fine, hurry back and ask him. The middle-aged man was not bothered about dealing with Ye Xiaoxian and thought she must not have the money to rent it. Ye Xiaoxian was thinking while she left the store, No wonder the business is so sluggish. The owner was such a snob, so how can his business go well? Chapter 70 - Are You Short Of Money? Chapter 70: Are You Short Of Money? Trantor: Flying Lines Proofread by ire.KK Again Ye went to the government office to look for Xiao Baoshan, told him about the restaurant which was avable to rent and said that she would like to get it. Baoshan, my n is like this. I really have to rent that restaurant and I have the confidence to open it up, but I dont have enough money and I still need three more taels of silver, so could you borrow some for me? Ye Xiaoxian said with determination. That restaurant was indeed in a good location and so long as the dishes were delicious with their own style, they would surely make a profit in the future. Moreover, it was almost autumn and they could not depend on selling cold jelly and douhua for long. When the weather became cold they would have to open up shop in the wind and rain which was just tooborious. Xiao Baoshan did not speak and seemed to think. Ye Xiaoxian knew that Baoshan was a thoughtful person so she asked, Baoshan, what do you think? Dont worry, just tell me your ideas. Xiao Baoshan then asked her, I heard that you have to go to the localmercial firm and register if you want to open up a restaurant. Do you know about this? Ive heard it before, said Ye Xiaoxian. At this time all the agriculturalnd as well as stores in town were owned by local wealthyndlords. Wealthyndlords owned them and rented out to people who did business. Still, some sessful business people would finally purchase the store as their own private property. Xiao Baoshan asked again, Did you ask the manager if he owns the shop or has rented it from themercial firm? Uh? I didnt ask him about this. Ye Xiaoxian was only thinking to rent that store as soon as possible so she had not asked about the details. Ye Xiaoxian then said, He only charged ten taels, so he must have rented it. If he owned it then he would at least have charged fifty taels. Xiao Baoshan answered, Yeah, youre right. If he has rented it from themercial firm, we might as well find a friend and let them negotiate the price. So do you have a friend in themercial firm? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Were just going to inquire about it, so its not thatplicated. Xiao Baoshan smiled. We can go to themercial firm now. ... Themercial firm was in another street and a little bit remote. The size of it was about that of a pawn shop and there were two members of staff inside. Xiao Baoshan led Ye Xiaoxian inside and showed his card as a handyman in the government office. The staff saw that Xiao Baoshan was from the government and thought he was here for business, so the staff were quite polite to them. Xiao Baoshan asked them to see if the restaurant had been registered with themercial firm and whose property it was. As it turned out it was quite a coincidence, because the property was that of Lord Liu. When they came out of themercial firm Xiao Baoshan suggested that Ye Xiaoxian talk to Lord Liu. If Lord Liu would like to give her a discount she may get the store for eight taels of silver instead of ten. Ever since Ye Xiaoxian had the idea of opening up a restaurant she started to pay attention to the tricks and ways of doing business. She did not expect there to be so manyplicated rtionships involved in this. She immediately went to find Lord Liu. Lord Liu heard that she wanted to rent that shop and smiled. No wonder you are not willing to work for us, as it turns out that you have such ideas. That restaurant in town is ours. Several managers have been changed over thest couple of years and the business has not done very well. Some argued that it was not a good ce to open up a restaurant because of fengshui (geomantic omen; it prevailed in China that the location of a house or tomb supposed to have an influence on the fortune of a family). It all depends on human effort. Others failed but that doesnt mean that I wont seed. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Its good to be so determined. Since youve made up your mind Ill let Housekeeper Liu discuss it with the manager for you and also get the restaurant back. Well, thank you so much, Lord Liu, but... Ye Xiaoxian continued. I actually have another request. When I open up the restaurant I may not be able to cook for Miss Qianqian everyday and if you and miss were hungry for my cooking, perhaps you coulde to my restaurant in person or I could always ask my staff to deliver the food to you. Lord Liu looked at Ye Xiaoxian with a smile. Youre hoping that we can make a name for you, right? You little girl, you want to maintain appearance as well as save money. Youre indeed a future business person. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Lord Liu then said, Well, well, you dont have toe and cook for us if you dont want to. We can go to your ce or ask the servants to take some food home, but you have to give us some discounts with extra food in every portion. Certainly I will! Ye Xiaoxian promised. As Housekeeper Liu went there personally, things were going very smoothly. It originally cost ten tales but after the negotiation it had been reduced to seven taels, which happened to be all that Ye Xiaoxian had saved. After the transfer fee she had to pay two taels every month in rent. There was still half a month left on the previous managers lease and Ye Xiaoxian could have a good think about how to open up a restaurant. Ye Xiaoxian just strolled around the town for a whole afternoon and had rented a restaurant, which surprised everyone in the second household. During the dinner that night they were all staring at Ye Xiaoxian in a daze. Although Ye Xiaoxian looked very calm and ate her meal as usual, she was chuckling to herself. Little, little Ye...what on earth is on your mind? Li Hongmei asked her, unable to hold it in. Im thinking of expanding the business. Dont you always say my cooking is great? Even Lord Liu loves what I cook so why cant we open up a restaurant? Ye Xiaoxian asked. In our Daliang vige...women never open up a restaurant. Not just women, but even men dont have the guts to do this. All the men of the vige were doing work for others, like your elder and third uncle who were working for the government office as attendants, which can be counted as a great achievement, besides, doing business does not always mean that one makes money. Ye Xiaoxian said, If we cant make money out of it we might as well continue to sell cold jelly and douhua, so we wont starve to death. Anyway, we havent opened the restaurant up yet, and Ma, how could you be so sure that we cant make money? I didnt mean that. I dont worry if you can make money or not. Im just...very surprised. I had no idea youre so brave. Little Ye, whether you can make money or not Ma will always support you, Li Hongmei said firmly. Xiao Baofeng had not moved his gaze from Ye Xiaoxian. At this moment he found his sister-inw to not be a vige woman, instead she was like a mysteriousdy depicted in books. While Xiao Baozhu suddenly recalled the novels she read and she found that her sister-inw possessed the characteristics belonging to the heroine, which were determination, ambition and strength. Xiao Baozhu thought that she should learn from little Ye Xiaoxian and only by that could she be the kind of heroine in those novels. Little Ye, you have enough money? You said it was ten taels and youre short three taels? Of everyone in the family only Xiao Baoshan asked the most realistic question. Although he knew that Ye Xiaoxian had made money by selling cold jelly and had also made quite a few coins by cooking in Lord Lius, he never asked the specific amount. Ye Xiaoxian answered, Its almost there and well have enough from selling more cold jelly. Do you need to redecorate the restaurant? asked Xiao Baoshan. Chapter 71 - Praying for Kids

Chapter 71: Praying for Kids

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Yes, we need to buy some decorative curtains and also hire two members of staff, so we need to make more money now. Li Hongmei asked again, Little Ye, do you really need more hands? Baozhu and I can help, right? Yeah, we need more hands to serve food, wash dishes and do the ounting work. Ma, you can help me bring customers to their seats and get their bills and Baozhu can help do the ounting and tidy up the tables. It sounds like our business will be great in the future, said Xiao Baozhu. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Surely it will be. Xiao Baoshan, being silent, remembered what Ye Xiaoxian just said; they now needed to make more money. ... Xiao Baoshan went up the mountain the following morning when the day was still dark. Just likest time he sharpened several spears, though he was not aiming for hares this time but wild boar. By the time the sun rose he had already killed two boars. He did not take them home but carried both to the biggest restaurant in town, Zuixian Pavilion. Two boars sold four taels of silver in total. When Ye Xiaoxian got up and ground douhua she was wondering why Xiao Baoshan had left so early. Is it that hes busy at worktely? When she finished grinding douhua and prepared cold jelly and was ready to go to the town, Xiao Baoshan came back. Baoshan, where have you been so early in the morning? asked Li Hongmei. Have you had breakfast yet? There is some porridge in the wok, do you want some? Xiao Baoshan just nodded to Li Hongmei. Ive had breakfast. He then walked to Ye Xiaoxian, fishing out the four taels of silver and gave them to her. Take the money. Where did you get these? Ye Xiaoxian saw Xiao Baoshan covered in mud with some blood stains on his clothes, and he also smelled, so she suddenly became tense. Where has he been? Robbing? No way, Xiao Baoshan is not that kind of person. Xiao Baoshan simply said, I went to hunt for two boars and exchanged them for money. ... Ye Xiaoxians hearted was flooded with emotion. No wonder he was asking her if she had enough money. Ye Xiaoxian held the money, feeling like they were really heavy and even burning hot. This fool, why does he always do such things so quietly? Baoshan, well...thank you very much! Ye Xiaoxian gazed at him. Dont worry. If its not enough I can go up to the mountain again tomorrow. No, no need. Its certainly enough. Ye Xiaoxian stopped him hurriedly. Hunting was a very dangerous thing to do. There were some tigers that killed vigers years ago and Ye Xiaoxian did not wish to let Xiao Baoshan risk his life like this. What was more, if Xiao Baoshan was really that into hunting, why did he not live in the mountain and became a hunter rather than going to the town to be a handyman? Well, Ill go inside and get changed, said Xiao Baoshan. Ill help you push the cart to townter. Yeah! Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Watching his back Ye Xiaoxian felt great joy in her heart. ... After Liqiu (the traditional East Asian calendars divide a year into 24 sr terms and Liqiu is the 13th sr term), the busy farming season was called an end. In Daliang Vige, each year after Liqiu activities would be held, such as touching autumn (a folk culture for married women without kids to pray for kids by picking up crops in the night of autumn. The touching autumn activity in Daliang county was different from everywhere else and everyone was supposed to take part in it. In the morning men from each vige participated in a tug of war and in the afternoon women started touching autumn. Every vige was looking forward to this day. This was the most lively day apart from the New Year. Ye Xiaoxian originally had no interest in this activity as she was going to take over her restaurant in half a month, so she needed to make more money, recruit staff and think up the menu and the decorations. However, when Ye Xiaoxian heard that there would be thousands of people there on that day, she thought that she might as well sell douhua and cold jelly there, and their business may be even better than in the town. During dinner she consulted her family and asked if they were allowed to open up a stand on that day. Li Hongmei pped her own head. Oh little Ye, howe I didnt think about it. That day is like New Year and everybody will go there to see the touching autumn activities and it will be full of peddlers and stands selling all kinds of things. Our douhua and cold jelly will sell well on that day. Then lets go to sell douhua and cold jelly on that day. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. If we sell all of it out early then maybe we can join in with touching autumn. Li Hongmei smiled. On that day womens eyes will be covered up and theyre asked to touch things. Its said that whoever touches pumpkins will be pregnant with a boy. Little Ye, you can go and have a try to see if you can touch a pumpkin or not. Li Hongmei talked while ncing at Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Ma, do you think a man and woman will have a baby when they arent living together? Dear me. Li Hongmei pped her thighs. Call me senile, but of course you cant have a child like this. Xiao Baoshan paused and then ced his bowl down. Ma, Im full. You take your time. Baoshan... Li Hongmei still wanted to say something, but with Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng present it was not proper for her to add something else. Xiao Baoshan had not walked to the gate yet when he heard someone shouting outside. Which room does Xiao Baoshan live in? Oh, Sir, why have youe here? It was Wong Mudans voice. Hearing that the head of vige was looking for Xiao Baoshan, Wong Mudan shouted over to Li Hongmeis house. Baoshan, Mr. Zhu is looking for you! When they heard that the head of vige hade, Li Hongmei put down her chopsticks too and both kids stopped eating, following Li Hongmei outside. The head of Daliang Vige was named Zhu and was in his fifties. He was quite the prestigious figure, so after hearing that he hade in person all the Xiaos naturally had toe out and see what happened. They were worried that Xiao Baoshan made some mistakes and was told on by vigers. Ye Xiaoxian was worried that Xiao Baoshan went hunting boars in the mountain and that others were against him. However, once the head of the vige arrived he sized up Xiao Baoshan in a rather surprised and cheerful manner, as if Xiao Baoshan was a chunk of sizzling pork. Sir, is there anything wrong? asked Xiao Baoshan. The head of the vige made a tut-tut noise then touched Xiao Baoshans swelling pectorals and finally spoke up. Baoshan, you know that we have the touching autumn activities in the county, right? We have a tug of war going on. If youre free then you may want to represent our vige in this sport. We will win for sure with you. Tug of war? Ye Xiaoxian chuckled and nearly burst out ofugher. No wonder the head of vige looked at Xiao Baoshans pecs as if he had seen a chunk of pork. However, Xiao Baoshan answered calmly, Sir, a tug of war requires concerted effort. Its not an individual sport. So you can guide them, cant you? I have already selected our men, including Big Zhuang, Pir and Brother Big Dong...you just need to work together closely and it will be enough, right? Xiao Baoshan was obviously not interested. Chapter 72 - Scholar Wong Stared at Ye Xiaoxian

Chapter 72: Schr Wong Stared at Ye Xiaoxian

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio The head of vige noticed Xiao Baoshans expression. Baoshan, we have never won a single touching autumn event and I really feel ashamed of myself among all other vige heads, so, like it or not, you must take part in this touching autumn or I wont allow you to use the grain-sunning ground next year. However....if you agree to participate I can let you pay less in grain tax. There are five people in your second household but you will only have to pay three peoples taxes. What do you say? Wong Mudan heard this and said to the vige head with displeasure, Sir, its just a tug of war. Do you really need to reduce the taxes for them? And two of them at once. Li Hongmei said immediately, Certainly, but Sir, you have to be sure that you wont go back on your word. If Baoshan wins you must reduce the taxes for us. The vige head said, Certainly. He then nced at Xiao Baoshan with his tiny eyes. Li Hongmei had agreed so that left Xiao Baoshan no leeway to refuse, so he had no option but to agree. ... As touching autumn was a big festival in the county, the schools had also offered students a break and Xiao Baoshan did not have to go to school that day. On the day before touching autumn Ye Xiaoxian made the best use of her time to soak soy beans and on the morning of the festival she was making douhua and cold jelly along with Li Hongmei, Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng. Ye Xiaoxian had made the exact same amount as she brought to sell in town. She did not have much of an idea about touching autumn and was not sure of the situation, so she was afraid she could not sell it all if she were to make too much. Xiao Baoshan was called to assemble in the vige with otherrge men selected by the vige head but Xiao Baoshan was the leader of the training. When the sun rose Ye Xiaoxian and others got ready to go to the county. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju were also preparing to bring their children out. Seeing Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian carrying cold jelly with them, Wong Mudan then said sarcastically, Oh, talking about the penny-pincher. Everyone in the vige is going to touching autumn and look at you, youre still going to town to do business. Li Hongmei said, Who told you were going to town. Were going to the county. You n to sell douhua and cold jelly to the crowds there? Tsk, havent you been therest year? There were several cold jelly stands. Youll be snatching their customers, so watch out and dont get beaten to death. Li Hongmei was not provoked by her and just chuckled. Ill sell mine, theyll sell theirs and well let the customers choose what they want to buy. Beaten to death? You think everyone is as unreasonable as you are? Tsk! Wong Mudan could not win by arguing so she rolled her eyes and left. Before they left, Ye Xiaoxian asked Li Hongmei, Ma, if we all go will Grandpa be left home alone? If he doesnt have anything for lunch will he scold us again? Hoho! Li Hongmei disliked Old Mr. Xiao the most and felt annoyed just by the mention of him. He wont let himself starve! Hell join in the activity as well. He has loads of savings and there are so many food stalls in the touching autumn site. Hell give himself a big fat treat. If you dont believe it, just wait and see. Hes not going now because hes still sleeping and youll know if hesing or not when he wakes up. ... Touching autumn was held by the county and the site was set up on a spaciouswn in the suburbs. When Ye Xiaoxian arrived there it was already packed with thousands of people. Some of them were sauntering, some were selling stuff and little kids were ying and running across thewn looking so lively. As Li Hongmei had said, there were quite a few cold jelly stalls and Li Hongmei even spotted the bridgehead old man and his son. When the bridgehead old man saw Ye Xiaoxian he stared at her with a nasty look and even spat on the ground. His spit had almost sshed onto a middle-aged woman who was just going to buy cold jelly from him, and she turned away immediately in disgust. Uh, please stay. Wee,e and buy our cold jelly. The bridgehead old man tried to get his customer back but the woman was certainly not going to buy from him. She turned around and left. Ye Xiaoxian was amused by this. The bridgehead old man wanted to hit her but he hadnt the guts since there were so many people around. Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei chose an appropriate ce, opening up their stand and began their touting right away. Douhua and cold jelly! Two coins for a bowl of douhua. Buy one bowl of douhua and get one bowl of cold jelly for free. ... There were quite a few peopleing from Daliang Vige and Li Hongmei knew most of them. Li Hongmei would chat and tout to them as well. Aunt Dazhuang, have a bowl of cold jelly? Or douhua? Ah, isnt this Brother Dongs newly-married little bride? Youre here to join the touching autumn festival too? Do you fancy a bowl of cold jelly? ... Touching autumn was the biggest local festival and vigersing here to join it would wear their most cherishing clothes and bring some money, buying snacks from the stalls and enjoying themselves. Although it had already passed Liqiu the weather in Daliang County was still hot. Besides, it was an outdoor activity so the best option for food was the refreshing kind such as douhua and cold jelly. Vigers from Daliang knew that Li Hongmei had been opening up a stand in town but since they never saw it with their own eyes, there was all kinds of gossip. Some said Li Hongmei actually did something else under the guise of opening up a shop and some even said that she had returned to her old career. As they had now all seen it with their own eyes, they were finally convinced that Li Hongmei was running an honest business. Vigers saw the douhua which Ye Xiaoxian had made so soft and silky, which already looked inviting and so they all craved a bowl of it. Mrs. Xiao, were all from the same vige so can you add a little bit more in it? someone asked. Li Hongmei then replied, Its already a full bowl so I cant really add more. Can I add one more spoon of sugar for you? Its not easy to do business now. The sugar is dearer than soy beans. Few of the vigers would buy sugar to eat, so when they heard that one more spoon of sugar could be added they said nothing more. With the sun getting higher and higher, more and more people were gathering. Xiao Baoshan was responsible for washing bowls. There was a river nearby so once the water in the bucket was used up she would go to carry more water with Xiao Baofeng and then washed all the bowls that were left by customers. While she was washing them she suddenly heard Xiao Baofeng shout, Sir, youre here to join the touching autumn as well? Schr Wong? Xiao Baoshan immediately raised up her head. As expected, Schr Wong was standing in front of the stand along with a young man dressed in a simr fashion to him. They seemed to havee here together. Xiao Baozhus heart began to beat faster. Ah, isnt this Baofengs teacher? Weve met before; long time no see. I almost cant recognize you. Youre even more handsome than before. Would you like a bowl of douhua? Youre Baofengs teacher so its free, free for you. Li Hongmei said hospitably. Schr Wong smiled to Li Hongmei first and then looked at Ye Xiaoxian. He did not know why, as she obviously was married, but his heart could not help but flutter every time he saw her. Ye Xiaoxian also asked, Mr. Wong, would you like a bowl of douhua? You only had cold jellyst time and you havent tried douhua. Certainly, then Id like two bowls of douhua. One each for my friend and I, said Schr Wong. Ye Xiaoxian then quickly picked up a bowl and filled it with douhua, passing it to Schr Wong. When Schr Wong took the bowl his finger tip touched Ye Xiaoxians finger and the feeling was like being struck by thunder with a weakness and numbness passing through his whole body. He was stupefied on the spot. Chapter 73 - Scholar Wong Inscribed The Banner

Chapter 73: Schr Wong Inscribed The Banner

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Schr Wong remained that way until Li Hongmei asked him, Mr. Wong, has my Baofeng caused trouble in school? If he has, please feel free to discipline him and dont be soft-hearted with him. Howe? Baofeng is very good student and a fast learner. Hes able to read The Analects of Confucius all by himself now. Thats good, thats good. Li Hongmei smiled but of course she had no idea what was in The Analects of Confucius. Xiao Baozhu had been staring at Schr Wong and she did not go near him until he drank up his douhua. Sir, just pass the bowl to me. Schr Wong then gave her the bowl. He recalled that Xiao Baozhu had been to the school before and wanted to learn how to read, so casually he asked Baozhu, Are you still reading novels? Have you learned any more characters? Yes, I have. Im able to read a whole book myself now. Thank you for teaching me so much, Sir, said Xiao Baozhu. I only taught you several words, dont mention it, said Schr Wong. Schr Wong wanted to pay the bill after having the food but Li Hongmei, like thest time, insisted on not taking the money. Schr Wong did not force her but after he walked away a few steps he waved to Xiao Baofeng, asking him toe over. Xiao Baofeng thought that his teacher had something that he wanted to ask him to do, however, Schr Wong was paying him money. Schr Wong said, There are eight coins in total and four of them are for the cold jelly I had in town. Here they all are, now go back to tell your ma if she doesnt take them I wont teach you to read anymore. But... Xiao Baofeng was in a dilemma. Hurry up! Schr Wong posed as a teacher. Xiao Baofeng had no option but to go back and give the money to Li Hongmei. Goodness, your teacher really takes it too hard. Hes a teacher so why should he pay for just a couple bowls of douhua. Baofeng, take the money and give it back to your teacher tomorrow when you go to school. Li Hongmei did not want to take his money. Xiao Baoshan was again left in a dilemma. Finally it was Ye Xiaoxian who helped him out of this quandary. Ye Xiaoxian said to Li Hongmei, Ma, dont let Baofeng get embarrassed anymore. Schr Wong was right. As a teacher he should set a good example for his students by not taking students belongings. Only in this way can Baofeng develop as much integrity as him. If he epts free stuff everywhere he goes what will his students be in following his example? Li Hongmei gave it some thought and found it to make perfect sense, saying atst, Little Yes being the sensible one and look at me, I almost made a mistake. ... Schr Wong had not gone far when he was called over by the county mayor. The county mayor was the county executive and also andlord who was in charge of all the heads of the vige. The county executive called on Schr Wong to do the inscription for the touching autumn festival. Others would put up banners and gs which all required inscription. Schr Wong was the teacher of the school in the county and was an umonly young and handsome schr, so the county executive invited him toe over to inscribe the banners as soon as possible. While Schr Wong was inscribing all the curious vigers were running towards him and surrounded him in a circle on thewn. Everyone tended to join in the fun making it more crowded, so it took no time for others to join in the circle and make itrger. Just then Xiao Baozhu was observing Schr Wong and, seeing that everyone was surrounding him, she wanted to go too. Baofeng, your teacher is going to inscribe the banner. Arent we going too? asked Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baofeng looked at Ye Xiaoxian and asked her opinion with his gaze. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Go ahead. Ma and I are here keeping at eye on the stand. Now all the others were rushing over to Schr Wong and no one was left to eat douhua, so she just let the two little ones be. Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng were thin so they were able to dig their way through the crowd and reach the very front. On thewn, Schr Wong had already ttened the red paper and nk banners and started to grind the ink. The way he was grinding the ink was very focused. He did not look at all nervous with so many people staring at him. As he was being silent, so too were the crowd as they gazed at him intently. Xiao Baozhu was also staring at him and found him so handsome as he was grinding the ink. She continued watching him and finally he picked up the brush and began to write. The brush was dancing and the lively characters were jumping onto the paper. With the characters appearing Xiao Baozhu felt her heart flutter like a butterfly. Her heart kept pounding and she couldnt possibly stop it. She wanted to shout his name and hail. However, at this time peoples nature was still suppressed, especially with girls, so Xiao Baozhu couldnt yell like modern girls do when they see their idols. After Schr Wong had finished Xiao Baozhu was the first one apuding and Xiao Baofeng apuded as well. As for other surrounding vigers, whether they could read the characters or not, they followed suit, pping their hands and cheering. A schr is indeed different from us. His handwriting is so good. Can you actually read it? So what if I cant? I know those are characters and thats enough, isnt it? ... After Schr Wong finished writing he ced the brush aside. Someone would take away his inscription, brush and ink. Seeing that so many people were watching him write he started searching for that petite figure in the crowd, hoping to see admiration in her eyes. However, seeing through the crowd he spotted the cold jelly stand not far away where Ye Xiaoxian was still busy serving food and casting not even a nce his way. ... Ye Xiaoxian was indeed very busy. This was because Old Mr. Xiao was here. Old Mr. Xiao saw that their cold jelly stand in fact looked very good so he somehow said, It doesnt look too shabby, hoho. He got upte every morning and when Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei were going out to town to open up shop he was still dreaming, so he had no idea what the douhua that Ye Xiaoxian sold looked like and thought that their business was just fiddle-faddle. When Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei got back their douhua had all been sold out so they just carried back several empty buckets and Old Mr. Xiao was convinced that they were just making a fuss over nothing. Give me a bowl of douhua, said Old Mr. Xiao. Ye Xiaoxian then filled a bowl of douhua for him. When Old Mr. Xiao tasted this douhua his eyes popped out and he drank it up in one breath. The douhua is so tasty. You actually never sent any to me. Here, give me two more bowls. said Old Mr. Xiao. Ye Xiaoxian gave him another two bowls. Once Old Mr. Xiao had eaten up the douhua he asked for cold jelly. He had arge appetite and drank five or six bowls without taking a break. After finishing he burped loudly; so loud that people five meters away could hear it. Ye Xiaoxian was leftpletely speechless, but she had to serve him. Old Mr. Xiao did not leave after he was full but sat there as if he was at home. There was just one small table at this cold jelly stand and others could not rest while he was sitting there. Li Hongmei was very annoyed by Old Mr. Xiao and had to take five coins to him. Pa, I heard that the egg pancake over there is nice. Why dont you go and buy one. Oh. Old Mr. Xiao took the money and then slowly left their cold jelly stand. Chapter 74 - Xiao Baoshan, A Man of Muscle

Chapter 74: Xiao Baoshan, A Man of Muscle

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio The tug of war contest began around noon but because Ye Xiaoxian had arrived early and her cold jelly and douhua were much tastier than others, by then a bucket of douhua and a bucket of cold jelly had almost sold out. They were just about to close shop when they saw others rushing to the other end of thewn with some yelling, The tug-of-war contest has begun! Hurry up, Baoshan is ready for the contest. Little Ye, Baozhu, Baofeng, lets hurry and go cheer for him! shouted Li Hongmei. But we still have some cold jelly and douhua left here... Ye Xiaoxian did not take the tug of war contest very seriously. It was merely a group of men pulling a rope topete over their strength and sweating a lot, which she found quite boring. Isnt making money more important than watching a tug of war? But Li Hongmei said, Just leave thest bit there. Baoshans contest is more important! Li Hongmei looked like a modern parent who was hurrying to see her childrens performance at kindergarten. Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng were interrupting as well. Yes, Sister-inw, our brother is in it and we have to cheer for him. Whats more, our Daliang Vige was included too. If we win our vige will be so proud and didnt you hear what the vige head said the other day? We havent won a tug of war contest for years, so if we win this time we can pay less grain tax. Once she thought about paying less taxes, Ye Xiaoxian felt it necessary to go and watch. All the members from the second household left their stand behind and ran with the crowd. Li Hongmei was bold and thick-skinned. The two little ones were making full use of their small figures and Ye Xiaoxian was with them, so within moments they had squeezed through the crowd to the very front. As soon as Ye Xiaoxian stepped to the front she felt a gust of hot air. In front of her stood those more than tenrge men from Daliang Vige. They were either young or masculine men who were carefully selected by the head of the vige. As the weather was warm all of them were wearing only a vest and their arms and chests were soaked with sweat. Others were either rolling up their sleeves for battle or chatting lightheartedly while Xiao Baoshan was the only one who stood rather upright at the rear and looked like he was observing his opponents formation. Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng shouted, Second Brother, Second Brother! and Xiao Baoshan took only a single nce and nodded briefly. At that moment the referee shouted, Ready! Xiao Baoshan suddenly behaved differently. Like a general calling the roll in a battlefield he went to each of the men and corrected their stance and posture in gripping the rope. In this round Xiao Baoshan and his teammates werepeting with Niujia Vige and all theds in Niujia Vige looked equally tall and masculine. Daliang Viges team could not take any advantage from this. After Xiao Baoshan altered the postures of his teammates he went back to the very rear of the team, gripping the rope with pose that was ready to go. Ye Xiaoxian heard several vige women chatting behind her. Who is this at the rear? That tall,rge one. Isnt he the second son of the second household of the Xiao family in Daliang Vige? He was conscripted into the army once and only just came back recently. No wonder he looks so well-built. Look at the way hes stood. Hes the most impressive looking of all the vigers. Ah, dont tell me you have a crush on him? But you have no chance anyway. Hes married. Who is the lucky maiden? Not a maiden, its...never mind. Ill tell youter. ... The game had begun and all the supporters were out in force. The shouting of e on was getting louder and louder. Ye Xiaoxian was soon influenced by the atmosphere and followed Baozhu and Baofeng in cheering for Xiao Baoshan by his side. Xiao Baoshan pulled the rope so hard that his forehead was already sweating, but his eyes were shining, showing not a single sign of nervousness, moreover, the other Daliang Vigers had been trained by him so they also remained calm at the critical moment and it didnt take long for them to win this round. Thispetition adopted an elimination format. There was a single elimination at the beginning and two teamspeted against each other, with the winner going on to the next round. The round robin tournament would not begin until there were only three teams left. Xiao Baoshan led Daliang Vige to win four games in a row and finally entered the round robin tournament where their next rival was Shiwo Vige. Ye Xiaoxian was getting more and more excited. She felt as if she were watching the cutest guy in her ss ying basketball in her previous life and she could not help running around with Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng. Although tug of war was a sport emphasizing mostly strength, Xiao Baoshan was calm andposed, especially while hemunicated with other vigers in his team about strategy. Ye Xiaoxian could tell that all the other men were convinced and willing to listen to Xiao Baoshan. At this moment Xiao Baoshan was filled with charm and Ye Xiaoxians eyes were glittering with admiration for him. The most excited was the head of Daliang vige, Mr. Zhu. Although Mr. Zhu was already an old man, after seeing that Xiao Baoshans team had won four games in a row he was so thrilled that he ran around the pitch and shouted, Come on! Kick their ass! Good job! Pull down those bastards from Shiwo and let them eat the mud! ... What he said happened to be heard by the head of Shiwo vige, Mr. Shi, who was making his way over to Mr. Zhu in anger. What on earth did you say? How old are you? Watch your manners and stop shouting nonsense! I dont need manners, do I? Whoever wins thepetition will show they have the right stuff. Do you know what the award for the winner is? The county executive will award the winner with an ox! Mr. Zhu wanted the ox so bad. Once he thought about the ox, Mr. Shi began going crazy too. He quickly went back to his team and yelled, All of you, pull that rope with all youve got. The winner can win an ox. You must win this ox for me! Mr. Zhu asked him loudly on purpose, What if they dont win? Mr. Shi answered back, Its none of your damn business! ... People who wereing to see the touching autumn were not only Daliang locals but some out-of-towners, such as the one who was in charge of the dock, named Third Xing. The reason for Qinghe flourishing as a southern county was that the waterway was so convenient and many traders and businessmen always passed by. There was a canal in the suburb of the county which was always teeming with ships and barges. Third Xing was the one in charge of the dock in the canal. People in charge of docks had to be strong and some martial art skills were required also. Third Xing watched them for a long time and his gaze was locked on Xiao Baoshan. Third Xing was something of an expert and he could tell from Xiao Baoshans figure and posture that he must have cultivated the martial arts and perhaps had also done some outside illegal deeds. Otherwise why would he want to resign himself to staying in such a tiny vige? Third Xing thought thatter he must go and sound out Xiao Baoshan. Chapter 75 - Women Fighting Chapter 75: Women Fighting Trantor: Flying Lines Xiao Baozhu was originally watching the game with the others but she somehow spotted Schr Wong in the crowd. Schr Wong was still with his friend. He did not cheer or shout but just stood there watching with a slight smile on his lips. So, Xiao Baozhu somehow moved across to Schr Wongs side little by little, but Schr Wong did not notice her. On the pitch the game was raging like a fire. In order to attract Schr Wongs attention Xiao Baozhu shouted hard, Xiao Baoshan,e on! Come on second brother! Schr Wong then turned around to look at Xiao Baozhu. Ah, isnt this... Schr Wong forgot Xiao Baozhus name. Mr. Wong, my name is Baozhu, Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baozhu smiled. Schr Wong immediately pointed at Xiao Baoshan and asked, Is that your elder brother? Yes, hes my elder brother. My second elder brother. So your sister-inw...the one who sells cold jelly, is your second sister-inw. Is that right? Thats right. Xiao Baoshan smiled. She did not suspect that Schr Wong fancied Ye Xiaoxian at all. After all Schr Wong knew Ye Xiaoxian from the very beginning so it was reasonable for him to ask a little more about her. Oh... Schr Wong turned around to observe Xiao Baoshan. His gaze was fixed on Xiao Baoshan this time. He was tall and mighty and he looked like a perfect spouse for the cold jellydy. My brother is strong, isnt he? said Xiao Baozhu proudly. She needed to find something to chat to Schr Wong about otherwise she would lose his attention. Schr Wong nodded. Your sister-inw must be very happy to have such a perfect husband. Xiao Baozhu did not really agree. Theyre not as happy as they look. Their rtionship is...so-so. Theyre so polite to each other, almost as if they were strangers. Oh? What do you mean by this? Schr Wong looked at Xiao Baozhu with surprise. Xiao Baozhu then quoted some examples of what she had learned from the novels. A pair of spouses are people who are married to each other. Happy couples should live, cook and eat together but my brother and sister-inw are different. They even dont live in the same room. Schr Wong was even more puzzled. Arent they married already? How could they live in different rooms after getting married? In order to chat with Schr Wong some more Xiao Baozhu continued, My brother actually did not want to marry my sister-inw. Hed rather save face. She then told the whole story about how Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian got married to Schr Wong. Schr Wong was left furious once hed heard the story. Thats absurd! What your brothers done was bullying! I am a schr but Im not pedantic, yet he turns out to be such a pedant! Xiao Baozhu suddenly realized that she should not reproach her family in front of others so she added, No, not like that. My brother is a very nice person and he treats my sister-inw very well too. Its just that they dont live together. They dont live together, which means that he doesnt recognize your sister-inws position, so isnt that bullying? If others hear about this your sister-inws reputation will be tarnished. It isnt fair to your sister-inw. Shes very good to you, Baofeng and your ma, and in order to make ends meet for your family she goes to a lot of trouble opening up a stand in town, yet your brother despises her! When the very quiet Schr Wong began to scold Xiao Baoshan he was very articte and without mercy. Atst Xiao Baozhu felt that her brother was in the wrong. Well...well then, Ill talk to my second brother when I get back home. Sir, youre a schr and schrs are sensible so you must be right! ... Before long Daliang Vige was shortlisted for the round robin. The final rival for Daliang Vige was to be Wong Vige, where Wong Mudan came from. Li Hongmei felt that she should go and tease Wong Mudan, asking her which side was she on. Weird, I saw Wong Mudan just now and she disappeared in the twinkling of an eye. Li Hongmei was not happy so she squeezed through the crowd in search of Wong Mudan and it turned out that Wong Mudan was chatting to Wong Zhu and Lan in the distance. After seeing Wong Zhu, Li Hongmei trembled with fury. It was no wonder that she found that Wong Zhu and Lan looked so familiar as they were actually Wong Mudans rtives. It was no doubt that little Ye Xiaoxian had said the cold jelly must be made by acquaintances, and the hidden traitor turned out to be Wong Mudan! Li Hongmei rushed over to them right away in a rage. Tsk, tsk. You bitches, what are you discussing now? Is it about selling cold jelly in town tomorrow or making douhua? I tell you what, if you dare to make douhua tomorrow well start making sweet and sour plum soup, then well see how many you can make! How many recipes can you copy? Wong Mudan had a hard time pushing through the crowd and finally got a chance to chat with her brother, however, they were found out and scolded by Li Hongmei, so Wong Mudan had lost her temper from the embarrassment. Since when are you the only ones who can sell cold jelly? Huh? Since when? Do you have a record of this rule to show me? Theres only one way to make cold jelly, so is your little Ye the only one who can make it? Are you really saying youre the only ones allowed to sell cold jelly at this festival? If so why dont you kick other cold jelly stalls out! Were not the only ones who can make or sell cold jelly, but your brother happened to know how to make it and chose to sell it right by my stand. Even an idiot knows that youre behind it, am I right? Brother Wong? Wong Zhu felt rather guilty and embarrassed, and his wife, Lan, had witnessed Li Hongmeis capabilities, so Lan pulled on Wong Zhus sleeves. Come here, the game is on. Dont you want to see it? Wong Zhu answered hurriedly, Yes, yes, Im going to watch the game. Sister, see youter. Wong Zhu and his wife fled, leaving Wong Mudan and Li Hongmei to confront one another. Li Hongmei was here to demand an exnation, so she would not let Wong Mudan leave and stood in her way. Were at least sisters-inw and your husband and myte husband were brothers. We used to share meals at the same table so do you think its proper for you doing such a thing? Is it proper? Huh? Wong Mudan was left with no leeway so she said rashly, Ive done it so what do you want? ... Xiao Baozhu was watching the game with Schr Wong and saw Xiao Baofeng run to her in a hurry. Baozhu, something terrible is happening. Ma and elder aunt were having a fight. Lets go! ... Xiao Baozhu was not willing to leave Schr Wong and hearing that her ma was in a fight she hurriedly ran over. Li Hongmei and Wong Mudan were fighting and wrestling together. They were grabbing and scratching at each others noses and neither of them would give it up. Ye Xiaoxian was trying to stop them but it did not help at all. Li Hongmei and Wong Mudan were scolding and fighting each other with more and more people surrounding them as it looked more splendid than the tug of war contest. Here were two women having a fight so who was still interested in the game? Ye Xiaoxian could not stop them fighting and so stood aside and sighed. Xiao Baozhu had just arrived and did not expect that Schr Wong had followed her. Seeing such a scene, Xiao Baozhu, for the very first time, felt that her mother was really embarrassing. It was the vige head Mr. Zhu who finally came and shouted at them, Stop fighting or Ill deduct your grain and have you pay double taxes! The moment they heard that their grain would be deducted, in a sh the two of them immediately loosened up on one another. Chapter 76 - Aggressors Are Coming

Chapter 76: Aggressors Are Coming

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Neither Li Hongmei nor Wong Mudan had gotten any advantage over one other. The corner of Wong Mudans mouth was bleeding and Li Hongmeis hair was in a mess. However, Li Hongmei was still up for a fight. She was not allowed to attack others physically but she could do it verbally. Come,e everyone, you be the judge. Im a widow from Daliang Vige. My daughter-inw and I had gone to a lot of effort and finally made a type of tasty cold jelly, so we began to sell it in town. We were doing very well but my elder-sister-inw was so jealous of us... This thick-skinned woman actually stole our secret recipe and asked her young brother to sell cold jelly in town, right next to our stand. The original price for a bowl of cold jelly was two coins and he sold it for one coin. Whats more, he ended up selling two for the price of one. Everyone, you be the judge; what do you think of my elder sister-inw? How could she do such a thing to her rtives? You can be the judge of that... Li Hongmei was like a burning firecracker and bombarded her with a series of usations. Since Mr. Zhu was present, Li Hongmei then pulled on the fringe of his clothes and asked him to be the judge as well. Mr. Zhu, please say something. Isnt it a mean thing that Wong Mudan has done to me? Huh? Isnt it mean? Wong Mudan was scolded and finally became so embarrassed that she wished there was a hole she could crawl into. Finally Mr. Zhu felt sorry for Wong Mudan so he turned to Li Hongmei. This time your sister-inw was indeed going too far, but being family you may want to give her another chance. Mr. Zhu then turned to face Wong Mudan. Elder Mrs. Xiao, youd better not do such things in the future. The second household is leading a pretty hard life. You at least have a husband who works as an attendant in the government office but the second household, well...their children are still young. What is the point of you fighting with them over such things? What do you have to say? Sir, I...I... With so many people watching and Li Hongmei being so justified and confident, Wong Mudan was on the verge of crying. Her face was red and her eyes filled with tears. I dont know what got into me back then. I wont do such things from now on. It took quite some time for Wong Mudan to confess. Mr. Zhu was just trying to smooth things over and since Wong Mudan was willing to admit to her mistake he turned to Li Hongmei again. Second Mrs. Xiao, now that your elder-sister-inw has made an apology you should go easy on her as well. What is that idiom? One should not pursue broken rebels, isnt it? The game is about to start, dont you want to watch it? When Mr. Zhu said, one should not pursue broken rebels, Schr Wong in the surrounding crowd coughed slightly. The moment Li Hongmei thought about Xiao Baoshans game she then tied her hair up quickly, as if nothing had happened, and shouted, Really? Is it on? Little Ye, Baozhu and Baofeng,e here quickly, the game is on! Ye Xiaoxian was awed by the speed with which Li Hongmei changed her attitude. However, Xiao Baozhu did not follow them. She was keeping an eye on Schr Wong the whole time and walked by his side. ... It was no doubt that Daliang Vige atst won the tug of war. Mr. Zhu was the most excited and once Daliang Vige had won he then danced and rushed through the crowd, appearing to be more excited than a student who had finally passed the provincial civil service examination after ten-years of failure. He went to hug Xiao Baoshan for a moment and then ran to the front of the other vige heads. You always said that we didnt have strong men in our Daliang Vige and that we only had sick men, hahaha, but have you now all witnessed the strength of our vige? Ah, Mr. Shi, did you not make a remark that your Shiwo Vige would surely win? But why could you not mange it today? Did their performance misfire this time? Should I let my boys teach them how its done? ... The other vige heads found Mr. Zhu terribly disagreeable. It was the first time that they had won in many years and look how boastful he was being. If he could fly hed have rocketed up into the sky by now. ... When the tug of war contest had ended the vigers could go home first and return after lunch. Others with some money could just buy their meals from the nearby stir-fried noodle stalls. After Xiao Baoshan finished the game he was soaked in sweat so he had to go home to get changed. Since Li Hongmei had been fighting her hair was in a mess and her clothes were torn so she had to go back to tidy up. Ye Xiaoxian was not used to the local food and just found it tasteless so she decided to cook a meal back home. Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng were following along so they went back with their families. As Xiao Baoshan won the game, Xiao Baofeng looked so excited. He bounced and danced around Xiao Baoshan. Second brother, my ssmates were so envious of me for having such a strong brother. Xiao Baoshan just smiled and did not care about that kind of thing at all, while Xiao Baozhu felt a bit at a loss. After the activities in the morning she asked Schr Wong, Will you stille in the afternoon, Sir? Schr Wong just said faintly, It depends. Xiao Baozhu could not tell what was on his mind. She would surelye back in the afternoon so if she was lucky enough to bump into Schr Wong then they could chat again. The whole family was heading to Daliang Vige, but when they reached a crossing they saw several people standing there. These people were blocking their way on purpose and looked tough enough not to be trifled with. Seeing that they were standing right in their way some honest vigers dared not go near them. After a while the area around the crossing was full of people. Who are these guys? I have no idea. They look fierce. Are they going to rob us? Its broad daylight and its not the right time for a robbery. Or maybe theyre seeking revenge. I wonder who has provoked them. ... When Ye Xiaoxian and her families reached the crossing they also paused. Those people in front were not very tall but with very sturdy figures. Judging from their expression and behavior they did not look like honest vigers but had something to do with the underworld. Ye Xiaoxian felt that they must try their best to avoid them so she pulled on Li Hongmei beside her. Li Hongmei was someone who had seen much of life, so when she saw these people in front she also got an ominous sensation. In the underworld, their principle was to put the saddle on the right horse, so as long as others did not provoke them they would not cause trouble first. Therefore, Li Hongmei asked her family to wait for a while and once those people had found their horse, they would make way for others. However, the person in the middle was all the time staring at Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan noticed this. Whether the gang were focused on him or not, he wouldnt chicken out. If they were, he could not possibly avoid them and if they were not then why couldnt he walk on this road? I heard that youre called Xiao Baoshan? asked Third Xing, standing in the middle and staring at Xiao Baoshan. I am. What can I do for you? If theres nothing you want, please make way for us. Third Xing took several steps forward. I just saw your strength when you pulled the rope and I think youve practiced martial arts. I suggest that we have a fight. If you can beat me, Ill let you pass through here on foot but if you cant, you have to crawl through on your belly. How does this sound? The crowd became quiet all of a sudden. So they were actually here looking for Xiao Baoshan and wanted a fight? Arent they too cocky? Chapter 77 - I’m Merely Afraid That You Can’t Take It

Chapter 77: Im Merely Afraid That You Cant Take It

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Like a tall tree catches the wind, is it because Baoshan has drawn great attention from the tug of war contest that these thugse after him? Bashan is so quiet and simple in his daily life. Do you think hell fight with those people? Im afraid Baoshan will suffer. Were all from the same vige so should we give Baoshan a hand? Are you stupid? Those are horrible inhuman thugs and if we step up to them we may get our families in trouble. We cant possibly help him. ... The vigers from Daliang kept discussing and chattering. It was true that Xiao Baoshan was great at pulling ropes in the tug of war contest and that he was strong, but most honest people were more or less cowardly, so Xiao Baoshan may not dare to fight. Besides, although there were only three or four of those gangsters at the present, who knew how many wouldeter on. The most concerning thing was that they tended to take revenge afterwards and ask others toe to settle old scores. Everyone was staring at Xiao Baoshan and felt worried for him. Xiao Baoshan, however, strolled towards Third Xing. He was a good foot taller than Third Xing and his imposing manner showed the moment he stood in front of Third Xing. Xiao Baoshans voice was coarse and deep. I can fight you, but before that I want to know who you people are. A fight is a fight so why should I tell you who we are? I fight you because I dont see eye to eye. Third Xing was trying to agitate Xiao Baoshan. If you tell me I can take it as a match of martial skills but if you do not tell me then dont me me for being reckless. Third Xings hands suddenly trembled. He had felt Xiao Baoshans aura and the pressure he brought so he was forced to keep pace with Xiao Baoshan. Hoho, my family name is Xing and my surname, Third. The reason my ma named me like this is because Im her third son. My ma cant read so she couldnt think of other grand names. Third Xing continued, So, Im in charge of the dock and sometimes sail on the cargo ship. What...what about you? A humble handyman working for the government office, said Xiao Baoshan simply. As a handyman you should know your stuff. Cut the crap and lets begin! Third Xing began to pose as if he were going to attack. But Xiao Baoshan was standing still. When youre in a fight pose like a fight. What are you doing? asked Third Xing. Xiao Baoshan simply said to him, Just go for it. I dont need any pose. Well then, dontinter that I bullied you! Third Xing rushed to Xiao Baoshan while speaking. However, Xiao Baoshan put his hands behind and simply stepped away and dodged Third Xings blow easily. Third Xing paused in a daze, thinking that he may actually havee across a master. Third Xing refused to admit to being inferior so he turned around and did a back kick towards Xiao Baoshan. Again Xiao Baoshan dodged by leaning to one side and after he avoided Third Xings kick Xiao Baoshan suddenly punched him on the back. The blow made Third Xing wobble on his feet and he fell off directly forward. Third Xing fell to the ground, making his other partners petrified. Third Xing had also practiced martial arts and had very ruthless moves. Who did not know his toughness at the dock? But it turned out that he could not take a single blow from Xiao Baoshan. Boss, are you okay? One of his men wasing to help him stand up. Boss, are you alright? asked another. Boss, what happened just now? Why did you suddenly fall down? Third Xing stood up quickly but his legs were trembling slightly. Thoseymen could only see that he was hit with a blow but only Third Xing himself knew that the blow was with extremely strong inward power. Although it had only impacted on his skin and flesh, it had shaken his internal organs. Xiao Baoshan had not exhausted his strength and at most only used fifty percent of it. Xiao Baoshan was as stable as a mountain. He looked at the other men. Do you want toe at me together? Boss, hes so cocky. Shall we fight him together and see how capable he really is? One of Third Xings men said. Third Xing, however, waved his hands and stopped his men and shouted angrily, What do you want to fight for? Have you forgotten our purpose foring and standing there? They were here to wait for Xiao Baoshan and get him to join his group. Then Third Xing had changed his attitudepletely. Covering his sore chest, Third Xing breathed deeply a couple of times then walked in front of Xiao Baoshan. Brother Xiao, to be honest, we brothers are noting here to have a fight with you but to win your over. Win me over? Xiao Baoshan recalled that Third Xing was working at the dock. Could it be that he was trying to win him over and get him to take care of the dock? Third Xing walked to Xiao Baoshan and his cocky attitude was long gone. Brother Xiao, you said that you worked as a handyman for the government office, right? As far as I know a handyman usually only earns one tael of silver per month and at most can make one and a half taels. I meant to sound you out just now, thinking that if youre good at fighting Ill win you over to work on the dock. What do you say? Does it interest you? Xiao Baoshan did not say anything but just looked at Third Xing. Third Xing then exined. Our job is notborious. Its just a care-taker job. You just have to make sure that other fleets dont upy our route as well as look after the goods were charged with. Well, asionally there might be some disputes and you have to settle them with fists but no ones ever died over them. It sounds hard but youll get paid well. As long as youre good youll be paid five tales a month. To earn that much by working in the government office takes almost half a year. Others in the surrounding crowd were closely watching what was going on. Faced with such a turn of events everyone was very surprised and hearing that this sry was five taels a month all of them were eximing. Five tales a month! I cant make that much in over a half a year. Five taels is only the legal wage. There must be a lot of illegal money to be made. Its a good deal for Baoshan. Thats right. Baoshan is so good at fighting and wont really suffer any loss. ... Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei also looked at each other. Ye Xiaoxian could not make the decision for Xiao Baoshan as this was his own business. Furthermore, she herself felt that working at the dock was better than working in the government office as a handyman. Being a handyman also required facing a lot of unexpected things and was also inferior in terms of ss, as one had to listen to whatever his superior ordered. At least working at the dock probably allowed one more freedom. Third Xing was still waiting for Xiao Baoshans answer. Xiao Baoshan pondered on it and he nodded as expected. If I am going, where can I find you? And when will you want me to start working? Third Xing was pleased and replied quickly, You cane anytime you want, now or, if you would like to spend a little more quality time with your wife, you cane in a few more days, but donte toote. By the way, five taels a month is only a temporary sry. If you work hard you can get even more. Some of us in the dock can make ten taels a month. Right, I wont let you wait too long. Please make way for us to pass through. My family and I are going home to eat our meal, said Xiao Baoshan again. Third Xing immediately made way for them. Xiao Baoshan walked passed him and the others hurriedly followed close behind. Third Xing was still covering his chest. Boss, is he really that capable? asked a man of Third Xing named Skinny Monkey. Third Xing could no longer stop himself from coughing, although he had been doing his best to hold it back for the sake of saving his face. After he coughed he replied impatiently, Capable or not, why dont you ask him for a fight yourself when hees to work? But Im only afraid with a figure like yours, you couldnt possibly take it... Chapter 78 - Boys Or Girls?

Chapter 78: Boys Or Girls?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio In the afternoon, the site of touching autumn was again buzzing with activity. All the vigers came back there after having lunch. Ye Xiaoxian and her family were going as well. The douhua and cold jelly had already sold out in the morning and they wereing only for the entertainment in the afternoon. The real touching autumn only began in the afternoon. The host of the activity would hide hyacinth beans and small pumpkins in a lot of remote ces and ask all the vige women to find them. Whoever finds pumpkins is said to be pregnant with a boy the following year, because the first character of pumpkin (Nan) and that of male (Nan) share the same pronunciation. Whoever finds hyacinth beans is said to be pregnant with a girl since another name for hyacinth beans is beauty beans which means girls. Whatever they found they could take home and cook, which was a kind of welfare for the farmers offered by thendlords. Li Hongmei said to Ye Xiaoxian as soon as they arrived at the site, Little Ye, do your best to find them so our dinner will be assured. Ye Xiaoxian was not very willing. She and Baoshan only did it once and she was obviously not pregnant as her menstruation hadest month. So whatever she found she would not be pregnant with anything. She was just about to tell Li Hongmei that shed leave it but Li Hongmei also said to Xiao Baozhu, Baozhu, make sure to do your best to look for stuff. Anything. Xiao Baozhu said with discontent, I am not even married. Why should I do this? Im already an old woman and Im going to find stuff as well, right? In order to find more vegetables to eat and save some money. Still, Xiao Baozhu curled her lips in displeasure. Ye Xiaoxian had understood now that Li Hongmei did not care if shed be pregnant or not as she only wanted to get some freebies. It was understandable since Li Hongmei had been poor for half of her life without enough food or clothing, so why should she not get a little greedy about free stuff? The touching autumn in the afternoon was not held on the samewn as in the morning but at a wood beside thewn. The wood had been separated already and only women were allowed to enter while men were not, but the women who entered needed checking too as anyone not of the proper age was not allowed to go in, for example, women under twelve and older than thirty-five were forbidden to enter. Rules were rules but they were in a vige after all and who wouldnt wish to covet a few advantages when there were some to be had. Not only did Li Hongmei have the cheek to queue up but Wong Mudan was also in the queue and happened to be somewhere not far from Ye Xiaoxian. But Wong Mudan was stopped by the guard. The guard asked her, Aunt, how old are you...yet you still want to have a baby? Yes, why not? Ive only got two girls and a boy and I want to have another boy to apany my Baocheng, said Wong Mudan, acting hard-headed. The guard obviously did not believe her. You look like youve already been a grandmother and you still want a baby boy? Go home and ask your husbands opinion first. Next! Ah, young man, well...I... Wong Mudan tried her best to make the miracle happen but got thrown out by the guard. Wong Mudan was furious and stamped her feet on the ground. I only look at thirty years old okay? Why wont you let a thirty-year-old have a baby? Seeing that Wong Mudan was kicked out Li Hongmei immediately chuckled at her misfortune. Tsk, a woman in herte forties still pretending to be thirty-year-old, how ridiculous. Ye Xiaoxian didnt make a sound because she worried about Ye Xiaoxian too. As expected, when it came to Li Hongmei, the guard sized her up for a long while and then asked her, How old are you? Li Hongmei gave him a sweet smile. Im only twenty-eight. Ye Xiaoxian. ... The young guard obviously was not convinced that Li Hongmei was only twenty-eight so he pointed at Xiao Baozhu and asked, Whats your rtion with her? Her? She is my...younger sister. Li Hongmei did not even blink when she was lying. Xiao Baozhu. ... Li Hongmei continued to chuckle. Dear me, Mr. Guard, why should I lie to you? Some look older than their age and some look younger. Look at little Ye in front me. Shes already twenty-two but she only looks about fifteen or sixteen, doesnt she? Li Hongmei referred to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian. ... She really wanted to pretend that she didnt know Li Hongmei at all. However, although Li Hongmei had did her best to act, the guard did not buy it but said coldly, Elder, you better leave the queue and let the young ones enter. Li Hongmei ended up leaving the queue disappointed. Wong Mudan was also staring at Li Hongmei. Li Hongmei wasughing at her and now it was her turn tough back. Oh, I only dared to pretend to be thirty and you actually said you were twenty-eight. You dared to say you were thirty and I dare to say Im twenty-eight. So what? asked Li Hongmei. Nothing, but weve all been thrown out now and can only watch from the outside. ... They were almost fighting again. There was a big crowd in the wood. They could see clearly what was going on inside. Li Hongmei soon found Xiao Baoshan and when she saw him she said with upset, Ah, I was thrown out. I couldve looked for pumpkins with little Ye in there. Seeing that Li Hongmei was so upset, Xiao Baoshan smiled. Dont worry, our family cant eat that much anyway. I dont know if little Ye could find a pumpkin. If she cant we can only eat wild herb congee for dinner. Baozhu is in there too, isnt she? Wild herb congee doesnt sound too bad and we did not work this afternoon, so we dont have to eat much. Li Hongmei had been cheered up already by her son, so once again she turned to the wood. Baoshan, can you see little Ye and Baozhu? Li Hongmei stood on tiptoes. Over there. Xiao Baoshan pointed casually. Li Hongmei still could not see anything though she had already tried her best standing on her toes. Baoshan, I sometimes doubt if you are my birth son. Your pa and I are both short, why are you so tall? Xiao Baoshan smiled. Sometimes you have one or two tall ones. It makes sense. Maybe its because you went into the army and you had better food there. Not like here where you have to put up with the other two households bullying, and very often you cant get enough to eat. Xiao Baoshan turned to Li Hongmei. Ma, dont worry. I will let you have enough to eat and you can eat whatever you want. Xiao Baoshan actually felt sorry and self-reproached. If he was more capable, his ma, his little brother and sister would not lead such a tough life and his ma would not be so greedy for small advantages like the pumpkins and beans in this activity. Li Hongmei, however, had soone back to herself and asked her son, Baoshan, what do you want little Ye to find? Pumpkins or hyacinth beans? Do you prefer boys or girls? Xiao Baoshan paused. His gazey on Ye Xiaoxian and, despite the long distance, he could still see Ye Xiaoxians figure. She was searching for things in the wood swiftly, as if she were a little rabbit looking for her food. Chapter 79 - What Has Little Ye Found in “Touching Autumn”Activity? Chapter 79: What Has Little Ye Found in Touching AutumnActivity? Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK Ma, wed better...talk about this next time around, said Xiao Baoshan. He did not think it was the best time for this. At the moment, Ye Xiaoxian was nning to open up a restaurant and he had just promised Third Xing to work for him in the dock. It was alright for them to have a child, preferably a baby girl, but when the girl was born he could not let her experience what he had been through from his childhood; starving, living on others favor and living in a shabby house made of earth, and even their quilts were patched up several times without a single good one left. Still, he was supposed to think about this after they got a bigger house to live in. Li Hongmei did not know what Xiao Baoshan was thinking. She just thought he was a big fool, a very big and pedantic fool. She then scolded Xiao Baoshan. If you are still that passive I promise youll regret in the future. ... Ye Xiaoxian was still looking for things in the wood. She knew that the staff in the county would not allow them to find pumpkins and hyacinth beans so easily, so she kept looking for remote and hidden areas. She had searched every possible ce where things could be hidden, such as in bushes, on branches or inside tree hollows. She thought that the people who had hidden it all were very cunning. If they were hired to make camouge or shelters the enemy would never find them. Although Ye Xiaoxian had been searching in hidden areas for a long time she did not find anything. It was true that people were suffering from nutritional deficiencies and shortage of products at this time, so even if this activity was held by the countyndlords they would not prepare too much. If everyone was allowed to find a lot of pumpkins and hyacinth beans once they came in, thosendlords would surely be bankrupted. Ye Xiaoxian and Baozhu came in together but Xiao Baozhu was the first one to find anything. Baozhu spotted something strange on the top of a tree and she climbed it resolutely. As expected, she found a pumpkin hidden in the leaves. Luckily Xiao Baozhu knew how to climb a tree. If it had been Ye Xiaoxian she surely would not have been able to climb it. Ye Xiaoxian gave up her hunting in the wood and focused on looking for things in bushes. After a while Ye Xiaoxian suddenly found a spot of newly dug mud on the ground. Have they hidden things in the ground? She picked up a stick, began to dig the mud and after a while she found half basket of hyacinth beans. After she got the hyacinth beans she focused on digging in the mud. Wherever there was newly dug mud she would use a stick to dig it up and after a while she also found a pumpkin. After the activity was over Ye Xiaoxian had actually got two baskets of beans and three pumpkins. Xiao Baozhu, since she was able to climb a tree, also found one basket of beans and two pumpkins. Both of them carried their stuff and went out happily. Li Hongmei asked Ye Xiaoxian once they met, Hows it going, little Ye? What was the first thing you found? Ye Xiaoxian said, Hyacinth beans. So it seems that youll have a baby girl first. Ha-ha a girl is not bad. Girls are sensible and she can help to babysit her young brothers and sisters in the future. Ye Xiaoxian. ... Luckily Xiao Baoshan was not here with them. Ye Xiaoxian ran her eyes over the crowd, seeing Xiao Baoshan talking to some of the vigers who were all his team members from the tug of war contest this morning. ... At dusk, Ye Xiaoxian cooked a thick pumpkin soup, some fried pumpkin pancakes and a pot of pumpkin porridge together with a te of fresh, jade green stir-fried hyacinth beans. The whole family enjoyed a delicious dinner. While eating, Li Hongmei discussed with others about going to see the opera in the county. She asked everyone, Little Ye, Baoshan and the two little ones, the countyndlords have invited an opera band to the performance tonight. Its a rare opportunity. Do you want to go and have a look? Xiao Baozhu said right away, Im going! She was a big fan of opera, and besides, she had read a novel in which the hero and the heroine became acquainted while watching an opera. She was hoping that she could meet Schr Wong during the opera that evening. Ye Xiaoxian was not interested at all. She had watched all kind of performances in the modern era including some concerts with tens of thousands fans, but the traditional Chinese opera was nothing but sleep music to her. Also, for that kind of opera in the county they did not even provide seats. All the vigers were crammed together and only people who managed to squeeze through to the front could have a chance to see the performance while others could only listen, which would be terribly boring. Ma, Ive been selling cold jelly and finding pumpkins all day and feel pretty tired, so Ill just give the opera a miss. Off you go. Xiao Baoshan did not take an interest either so he said to Li Hongmei, Im not going either. Ill stay home and wash the dishes. Xiao Baofeng said that Schr Wong had homework for them and he was going to revise everything hed learned, so he would not go either. Seeing this, Li Hongmei did not force them. She took antern and went with Xiao Baozhu. It was after dark, although they did not have to worry about the danger of walking at night as a lot of people in the vige would go to watch the opera, and once they reached thene outside of the yard they would meet other acquaintances. Li Hongmei shouted to her next-door neighbour, Mrs. Zhao, and after a short while Mrs. Zhao and her son went out together as well, and so together they went to the county joyfully. ... The day was getting dark. Xiao Baoshan was washing dishes and Xiao Baofeng was wiping the table while Ye Xiaoxian seemed to not have very much to do. She went back to her room and still had no idea what she should do next. Embroidery? She was an absolute blockhead at this and wasnt into it either. Reading a novel? Forget about it. She had already outgrown those romantic novels in her previous life. She knew that in all ages those novels had always been the same clichs, neither realistic nor readable. What she empathized the most were some fictional tales of farming in which the heroines were great women, as they were diligent and steady, umting their wealth step by step and didnt care if their husbands were willing to marry them or not so long as they were rich themselves. Ye Xiaoxian was daydreaming for a while then fetched some water and got ready to go to bed. However, lying in the bed, she could not fall asleep. She then thought why not go and sit in the courtyard. The day had been reced byplete darkness. Ye Xiaoxian opened her door but found someone sitting outside. She only saw a dark silhouette and it took her several minutes to recognize Xiao Baoshan. What are you doing here? Feeding mosquitoes? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Although it was already after Liqiu, there were still mosquitoes in the south of China, especially when one was sitting in the courtyard alone. Xiao Baoshan simply said, Baofeng was reciting texts inside so I just came and sat outside. You dont want to disturb Baofeng, do you? asked Ye Xiaoxian. It was so dark that she could not see Baoshans expression but she guessed that he had nodded. Xiao Baoshan then asked Ye Xiaoxian, Arent you tired? Why havent you gone to bed? Ye Xiaoxian said, Ma isnt at home and both aunties must have gone to the county too. Its always noisy here but now, when it bes quiet, I feels kind of lonely so I cant sleep. If Id known this I wouldve gone with them. I havent seen an opera in county before. After Ye Xiaoxian finished talking Xiao Baoshan was silent for a short while but Ye Xiaoxian saw him immediately stand up. I can apany you to the county. You? Ye Xiaoxian could not see his face but several scenes shed through her mind. Walking with him in the dark, watching the opera with him and then walking back together. This was nothing but a date for modern couples. She even hoped that they wouldnte across Li Hongmei and others when they arrived at the county. Chapter 80 - Going to The Roof With Him

Chapter 80: Going to The Roof With Him

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Proofread by ire.KK She did not agree right way, however, but rather asked him, But didnt you say you werent interested in it? Xiao Baoshan did not reply but fetched antern from inside of the room. Thenterns light was illuminating his handsome face. He said simply, Lets go. ... The night after Liqiu was a little chilly. Clouds were gathering together with the moon ying hide-and-seek between them. The moonlight was dim and they had only got onentern so Ye Xiaoxian had to lean into him while walking. She rejoiced at the fact that she had already wiped her body and changed without the smell of sweat or she would not dare to stay so close to him. It takes time for men and women to go from being unfamiliar to getting familiar with one another. When they are unfamiliar they have to show the best of themselves to each other; they cannot be their true selves until they be intimate. For example, she may not wash her hair for days, fart in front of him or ask him to pass the toilet roll to her when she forgets to take any. At present, Ye Xiaoxian was still in the unfamiliar stage with him. Xiao Baoshan walked beside Ye Xiaoxian and had no idea that there were so many mental activities going on with Ye Xiaoxian. What he focused on was if there were any bumps or hollows on the ground which may cause Ye Xiaoxian to trip. The night was quiet with some nameless beetles chirping and rustling as they walked along. For Ye Xiaoxian, what she saw was only the faintly luminous ring lit by thentern, as if that was her whole world and in this world existed only him and her. ... They reached the county in on time. The opera was already on. As Ye Xiaoxian anticipated, the tiny stage was surrounded by people who made up nearly half of the county. Those in the front were sitting on the ground and some sitting on the stools they had brought while some climbed into the trees nearby. Judging from the way it was, a fly might not have been able to get through. Since the opera had already begun the audience also stopped talking loudly and Ye Xiaoxian could only hear the singing of the performers. Ye Xiaoxian looked at Xiao Baoshan with disappointment. I knew it. We can only listen to it now and cant really see anything. Xiao Baoshan had sized up the surroundings and then asked Ye Xiaoxian, Do you really want to watch it? I do but... Ye Xiaoxian looked at those in the trees and eximed, Those guys are really good at climbing trees. Actually theres another ce you can watch the opera from, said Xiao Baoshan. Where? asked Ye Xiaoxian with jubtion. Xiao Baoshan pointed to the roof at the side of the stage. We can see it clearly from up there on the roof. Ah? We cant go up there, can we? Im afraid we couldnt make it even with adder. Xiao Baoshan blew out thentern and said to Ye Xiaoxian, Follow me. Ye Xiaoxian caught up with him immediately. They did not have electric lights at this time so torches were lit up around the stage brightening it up, but the range of torches light was limited, so nobody noticed the two figures who had jumped up onto the roof. Ye Xiaoxian was still in a daze as she was already lying on her stomach on the roof. Is it the so-called Qinggong (flying skill)? Xiao Baoshan flew up with his hands on her waist. She just felt her waist being held tightly and before she realized, she was already lying on her stomach on the roof. Xiao Baoshan stayed close to Ye Xiaoxian and whispered in her ear, Dont speak too loudly. It may cause a fuss if anyone finds us here. That made sense as seldom does one stay on the roof like that to watch an opera. Ye Xiaoxians mood was still restless. Although she was staring at the stage down there she could not hear anything at all. She turned around, ncing at Xiao Baoshan who was watching the show intently, and she wondered if he was really watching. Chapter 81 - The Beginning Of A Career

Chapter 81: The Beginning Of A Career

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian had been lying on her belly for quite some time and at the very beginning she was only able to hear some of the noise of the actors, but as she listened for a while she began to understand something about the piece they were performing. The name of the y was Fairy Couple, which was under the genre of Huangmei Opera(a form of rural folk song and dance) and it was about a fairy who was the seventh daughter of the Lord of Heaven, who traveled down from heaven to Earth for some fun and fell in love with a mortal, Dong Yong. They married against the Queen of Heavens wishes, so she separated the two lovers, with one ending up in heaven and the other remaining on Earth. Later on, the seventh fairy was willing to be a mortal and wanted to live happily with Dong Yong forever and ever. This is where the story ended. Ye Xiaoxian shook her head and sighed while she was listening. Xiao Baoshan noticed this and felt curious so he asked Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, why are you sighing? Is it because you dont like the y? Not that. I just think the seventh fairy is really stupid. Why? asked Xiao Baoshan. Then the two of them started chattering back and forth. The performance down below was loud so they had to draw closer to one other in order to hear each others talking. Ye Xiaoxian shook her head and said, If I were the fairy, Id live peacefully in my heaven as a fairy. Id never go to the mortal world to undergo all that pain. But this is what the seventh fairy chose. The seventh fairy was too young to know the sufferings of the mortal world. The y ends where the seventh fairy was trying to be a mortal anyway and lived with Dong Yong, but what else happened when they were really together? Do they not also have to deal with the realities of married life? She used to be a fairy with her magic power and could maintain her beauty but if she became a mortal shed end up being amon person, growing old, bing ugly with bby bottom, fat hips, saggy skin and white hair. Do you think Dong Yong would still love her as he used to? Xiao Baoshan suddenly felt that Ye Xiaoxiansprehension of this story was interesting. He had watched Fairy Couple several times himself and he felt a bit strange every time he watched it. Now as he listened to what Ye Xiaoxian said he finally realized the reason. Little Ye, please go on, said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian then went on. When she was a fairy she had a sensation of superiority and, because of this, no matter what kind of life she led she found them all very curious, such as the first couple of years when she just gave birth to babies with Dong Yong. However, when she also became a mortalter on her sense of superiority was taken away, making her the same as her husband. Her parents in heaven would not help her or they would not degrade her into being mortal, right? When she was not being favored anymore, with time going by, they remained poor, and a man as poor as Dong Yong could not even afford a new bed for her, could he? Maybe they could put up with everything because they were deeply in love, Xiao Baoshan said. Ye Xiaoxian still shook her head, All love will expire after being together several years. I cant imagine what their life would be like after a few years. Xiao Baoshan became silent. It was no wonder that Ye Xiaoxian was trying so hard to make money since she was not willing to remain ordinary. As she was not willing to be an ordinary person she surely would not stay by the side of a mediocre husband. Xiao Baoshan thought that perhaps he should start being a bit more serious about making money or she might look down on him. After having said all of that Ye Xiaoxian suddenly smiled to Xiao Baoshan. Its just my personal opinion. I cant speak for others and maybe they really can live happily and grow old together, and maybe they find living a thrifty life very happy. After all, they did not have mortgage loans, school district houses or the pressures from education and medication in Dong Yongs era, so he and the seventh fairy could bring up their children in the mountain areas. Ye Xiaoxian really had no further interest in those traditional operas so after Fairy Coupleshe felt bored. Xiao Baoshan sensed this so he asked her, Do you want to go home? Do you want to watch more? Ye Xiaoxian also asked him. If you want to watch more Ill stay here with you. Xiao Baoshan shook his head. Im good. If you want to go back Ill take you home. Ye Xiaoxian tensed again. If they were going back they had to get off the roof which required him to carry her. She changed to a sitting position and dared not look him in the eye, saying, Well...well, lets get down then. She was not sure if she should stand or sit and wondered which way he would carry her. She remained the same pose until he helped her to stand up. He asked her to stand on the roof first and then he suddenly gripped her waist and, meanwhile, her legs were in the air. After a whooshing sound Ye Xiaoxians feet stepped on the ground stably. He hadnt loosened up his hands as he had to make sure she was standing sturdy. When their eyes met he removed his hands slowly from her waist which made Ye Xiaoxian feel a sense of loss. He should have held her a bit longer. Still, as he had also loosened up his hands, Ye Xiaoxian felt that she should have more self-control. Lets go! She said inly. He hurried to catch up with her and lit up thentern when they reached a dark area. They walked towards the vige with the help of the dim light of thentern. They did not have much to talk about this time. Ye Xiaoxian did not know what she should chat with him about, while Xiao Baoshan was pondering over what Ye Xiaoxian had said on the roof. Um, I should take making money more seriously. After a long wait Ye Xiaoxian finally could take over the restaurant in town. The previous manager had already moved out and Ye Xiaoxian brought Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu to tidy it up. The restaurant had a backyard with three rooms in which people could live. There was also a well at the side of the yard, so they could fetch water directly from the well instead of going to the river. Ye Xiaoxian originally nned to distribute the three rooms like back in the vige. One for Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu, one for herself and the other one for Baoshan and Baofeng. However, Xiao Baoshan said that he was going to take care of the dock and that he had got a ce to live there, so they didnt need to leave a bed for him. Ye Xiaoxian was initially a little upset but she then figured out that perhaps Xiao Baoshan had his own pride and he thought that if he lived where Ye Xiaoxian was striving to make her career, hed be considered a clingy idler. Ye Xiaoxian somehow recalled the remark she had made randomly that night when they went to see the opera. Did that stir up his feelings? By no means did she despise Xiao Baoshan as firstly, she was not a fairy and secondly, Xiao Baoshan was not that cowardly Dong Yong. Never mind, its fine if he doesnt want to live here. He has to have his own career or others will say hes a clingy idler depending on his wife and I dont think he can take that. It took some time to tidy up the restaurant with more chairs and tables being added as well as some new decorations and a new signboard C The Xiaos Cuisine. Ye Xiaoxians restaurant was going to open up. However, just before they moved to the town, Ye Xiaoxian and others had suffered some setbacks. Old Mr. Xiao heard that they were going to move to the town and he was insisting on tagging along, saying that he hadnt been to town all that much in his whole life, so he wanted to live for a while. Woong Mudan and Chen Ju were willing to get rid of him even for a short while. This old man was such a pain and theyd rather he went to the town so that they would not be scolded by him all day long. Therefore, Wong Mudan and Chen Ju had been talking over and over again about how great life in town would be; like the things they would wear and how they could eat fluffy pancakes all day. Chapter 82 - The Formal Opening of the Restaurant

Chapter 82: The Formal Opening of the Restaurant

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio The most appalling thing was that Chen Ju added, Is Second Sister-inw thinking of getting remarried? Her husband has died and even if she wants to get remarried when she goes to the town, we cant do much to stop her. Old Mr. Xiao leaned on his walking stick, standing outside of the earth house of the second household and shouted at Li Hongmei who was packing things up inside the room. You nasty thing, as my son died youre now trying to take my grandchildren away. You treat me as a dead man as well? You think I cant discipline you? I tell you what, either youre taking me with you or you beat me up until I cant discipline you at all, but dont even think about sneaking off to town like this! Li Hongmei was so furious that tears began rolling down her face. Ye Xiaoxian could not possibly stop her as Li Hongmei had already rushed outside. She was using and crying with fury. Pa, whats going on now is that little Ye has rented a shop to open up a restaurant in town, so how does this make me nasty? How am I taking your grandchildren away? And how is it that I dont care if youre alive or dead? Why should I beat you up? If I did, Id be punished by heaven, wouldnt I? I have indeed done something like serving people before but I know the morality of behaving myself. Youve seen with your own eyes how much work Ive done for this family. Your son had been sick for so many years and didnt I clean his toilet and do all the other filthy work for him? Ever since I married him I seldom talk to other men. Ive gone to such lengths to bring up my own children and now my son and my daughter-inw have grown up to be promising, whats so wrong about me going to town to give them a hand? Old Mr. Xiao did not care what Li Hongmei said and only urged, If you dont beat me up youll have to bring me with you to town and let me experience living as a town dweller. Id like to eat pancakes for breakfast and take a walk with a pet bird sometimes. Were going to town to work and well be busy all day long. How can we spare the time to take care of you? Youre bound to cause trouble for us if you go with us, right? Li Hongmei was trying to reason with him. I am your father-inw and you ought to take care of me with filial obedience. How can you say Ill cause trouble for you? You just dont want to look after me; not this old man whos still hanging in there, am I right? Ye Xiaoxian finally could not bear to hear it anymore. She walked out too and stood in front of Li Hongmei. Grandpa, you also want to go to town? Thats right. It just depends on whether you want me to go or not, said Old Mr. Xiao. Ye Xiaoxian smiled to him. My ma has made it clear that were going to make a living in town, not to keep a pet dog or a pet bird. If youre going with us, Grandpa, you have to work also. As were opening a restaurant, weve got servers, cooks and assistants to look after the kitchen fire. Which would you like to do? Old Mr. Xiao was furious. I am the head of this family and Im going to town to enjoy my life, not to work as a ve. As Grandpa, youre the head of the family, what do you think this means? Youre supposed to lead the whole family to strive to make a living and have every household be prosperous. Grandpa, since youre not willing to serve people or tend the kitchen fire, why dont youe up with a n of how to open up this restaurant? And what kind of dishes should we make everyday, how many assistants should we hire and do you care to pay their sries as well? After she had finished, Ye Xiaoxian turned to Li Hongmei. Ma, it seems that we dont have to mind the restaurant. Lets leave it to Grandpa to handle it. Li Hongmei wiped away her tears and nodded. Good, Pa, if you want to go to town, lets go there together and well be d that we can sit back and rx. Once Old Mr. Xiao thought about being in charge of a restaurant he began to feel uncertain. You, youre asking me to lead you in running the restaurant? Li Hongmei reminded him. Running a restaurant is not like opening up a food stand. The rent is three taels of silver per month and you have to buy food ingredients and cook them too. Pa, if you can manage all of this, then go ahead but youd better not lose so much that you cant even hold up to five hundred coins in filial piety fees every month. Old Mr. Xiao lost his confidencepletely. Three tales of silver per month? Having to buy food ingredients everyday? What if they were losing money by then? Old Mr. Xiao was so stingy and only pursued short-term interests, so how could he possibly let so much money slip through his fingers? Old Mr. Xiao thought about it and finally hepromised. Well, well, if this is the condition, Im not going with you but you have to pay me more in filial piety fees every month. It was five hundred coins before but youll have to make it eight hundred coins. Li Hongmei felt so hard done by that she was going to argue with him again but Ye Xiaoxian managed to stop her. Ye Xiaoxian said, Fine, eight hundred coins it is. After they were done packing their luggage they used the handcart to push things out of the vige and only by then did Li Hongmei breath a sigh of relief. Still, aside from the relief, Li Hongmei felt somewhat sentimental. She had been living in that low house made of earth for twenty something years during which she had been made to silently swallow insults and humiliation all the time, but now she finally could have the taste of a carefree life. Their life to follow was not guaranteed to be carefree but they at least did not have to live on others favor. Still, they certainly would have to live on their customers favor, which was nevertheless mutually beneficial. As long as the customers were satisfied with their service then they would spend money to eat there, which made her feelpletely different. Xiaoxian, say, are we able to run our restaurant well? We dont have to return to live in this house, do we? asked Li Hongmei. Ye Xiaoxian was pushing the cart behind and she smiled involuntarily after hearing what Li Hongmei said. Ma, its up to you. If you dont like living here we can always live somewhere else and if you like it, well, thatll be another story. Of course I dont like living here! Li Hongmei felt sick when she thought about Old Mr. Xiao. Then we shall nevere back, said Ye Xiaoxian. Thend is so big under heaven so well surely find a ce to live. If we cant run the restaurant well we might as well wander across the world selling cold jelly! Good idea! Li Hongmei approved immediately. She had long wanted to leave with her children but what stood in her way was that she had no skills or talents, but now she had Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei she felt it was a blessing from God. XS was the one feeling worried as she thought about Schr Wong. She did not want to wander around the world but to stay with Schr Wong. Ideally she could marry him. After Ye Xiaoxian and others settled down they began busying themselves right away. The first thing to do was to arrange the menu. This town belonged to the southern area of China and peoples tastes varied. Some liked eating light and some preferred M vor (slight lemony overtones and creates a tingly numbness in the mouth). With abundant rivers there were all kinds of aquatic products, so Ye Xiaoxian decided to make boiled fish with Sichuan pickles as her signature dish. Naturally she had included tiny, fried fish, deep-fried fish and other appetizers. She also went to the chicken supplier in the market and asked the staff to save the feet and wings for her so that she could make chicken feet with pickled peppers. Chili was still scarce in the local area and Ye Xiaoxian had gone to many ces and finally bought some. As well as these she also had desserts to go with the customers main courses such as honey lemon tea, rose plum soup and of course cold jelly. The desserts were free so all the customers could have one on the house. Dim sum was also required, including little pumpkin buns, fired taro cakes and soup-filled buns. She could manage them perfectly so long as she prepared the dough first thing in the morning. The Xiaos Cuisine was formally opened for business after the menu had been set. The day before the opening day, Ye Xiaoxian went specially to Lord Lius and informed them that her restaurant was opening and that they coulde to dine there when they were free. Lord Liu and Liu Qianqian were hungry for Ye Xiaoxians cooking and said they would of coursee. Liu Qianqians anorexia had already been cured and, moreover, she had almost be a little foodie. She had gained quite a few pounds and recovered back to her earlier plump figure. Hearing that Ye Xiaoxians restaurant had opened she felt very happy for Ye Xiaoxian. She even rode in her familys horse-drawn carriage with grandeur to the gate of Ye Xiaoxians restaurant and then made a few circuits around it, and only after that did she enter the restaurant. She meant to make a big fuss about it so that everyone would know that she, a wealthy youngdy, hade here to dine in. As expected, after youngdy Liu took a stroll outside the restaurant it became surrounded by people who were all chattering and wondering what was the background of this The Xiaos Cuisine. Even Lord Liues here. Is the owner of the restaurant a rtive of Lord Lius? I should think so or why would Lord Liue with his daughter? It may not be the case. Isnt Lord Lius nephew also opening up a restaurant in the west district? And Lord Liu never goes there. ... Ye Xiaoxians restaurant already had two long-term hired hands. One was called Little Five, who was witty so he was doing the serving work. The other was called Little Six, who was a quiet and honest fellow so Ye Xiaoxian arranged for him to wash the dishes. Ye Xiaoxian found the two of them at the town gate where there was a kind ofbor market. One could find both long-term or short-term hired hands there and asionally there were people with a boards which said, Selling myself to bury my father. Little Five and Little Six were brothers around seventeen or eighteen years old. They were from a poor family, wearing shabby clothes and looking like tramps. They had been squatting at the city gate for days but could not find any work to do. Ye Xiaoxian, however, decided to hire them at first sight. She found the two brothers very honest guys and if she took time to teach them they would be skillful and loyal hands. Li Hongmei was responsible for bringing customers in and XS was assisting Ye Xiaoxian as well as doing the serving. Ye Xiaoxian was thinking of teaching her cooking skills to Xiao Baozhu. She did not say so openly as she wanted to see how well she could pick it up. If Xiao Baozhu realised the great kindness she was offering, she would devote herself to learning cookery. Outside of the restaurant Li Hongmei had made full use of her particr strength: passion! Everyone,e here and have a look of our newly-opened inn. All the dishes are half price for today with free desserts as well. Dont miss this rare opportunity everyone, and we wont charge you if the dishes dont suit your taste. Sir, would you like toe inside and taste our food? We have boiled fish with Sichuan pickles, sweet and sour pork and chicken feet with pickled peppers. Everybody,e and have a look at our restaurant which Lord Liu fancies. We wont charge you if the dishes are not to your taste. ... Some people then asked her, Do you mean it? We can eat here for free? Are you joking or what? Ye Xiaoxian then said, Sir, why dont you go in and find it out? All dishes are half price for today with additional free desserts. Some who would like to gain petty advantages were itching to try it. Anyway, it is free of charge if the dishes dont taste good. Still, there were not so many thick-skinned people around, and besides, it was impossible for what Ye Xiaoxian cooked to not be tasty, so they did not have the cheek to dine for free. Furthermore, Lord Liu was still there and the owner of this restaurant must be someone with some background or how else would she know Lord Liu? If they ate food without paying, would they not be afraid of beaten to death by Lord Liu? Chapter 83 - She Was Also a “Miss”

Chapter 83: She Was Also a Miss

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Back when they were selling cold jelly and douhua, Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian had promoted and publicized The Xiaos Cuisine already. Some were greedy for their free cold jelly, so they woulde and order one or two stir-fry dishes and gained a free bowl of cold jelly. On that day, Schr Wong also dropped by. When Schr Wong arrived, Liu Qianqian happened to be there too. Liu Qianqian had beening to visit for more than a week and every time she came she would ride in her luxurious carriage and had four or five of her servants stand guard outside. Being so ostentatious she meant to let the whole town know that she was dining here. Frankly speaking, it was a very good move, as a restaurant which was loved by Liu Qianqian could not be bad, could it? When Schr Wong stepped in he saw the servants on guard outside and he could not help smiling. As he went in he saw Liu Qianqian sitting beside the window in the booth on second floor, so he was on his way to find her. Li Hongmei was serving the customers inside and seeing Schr Wonge in she went to greet him right away. Ah, its Mr. Wong! Are you here to have a meal? Shall I give you a nice table? Schr Wong pointed at Liu Qianqian sitting in the booth. Its alright. Im going sit with herdyship. You are... Li Hongmei seemed to have stumbled upon some big gossip. Schr Wong then added, Miss Liu is my cousin and weve known each other since we were children. Oh... Li Hongmei was very surprised. It was indeed a small world as the two who looked like they were not rted at all turned out to in fact be cousins. Li Hongmei hurriedly followed him upstairs and, as expected, Schr Wong and Liu Qianqian wereughing and chatting vibrantly. Liu Qianqian also asked Li Hongmei to get two more dishes. Li Hongmei then went to the kitchen, seeing that Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu were rushing around busily, and she said to Ye Xiaoxian in a hurry, Little Ye, Schr Wong, that teacher of Baofeng, turned out to be Miss Qianqians cousin. Theyre now sitting at the same table and Qianqian asked for two more dishes, one sweet and sour ribs and one chicken feet with pickled peppers. Ye Xiaoxian had not expected this either but, thinking about it, Schr Wong had no ordinary bearing and looked like he could be from a wealthy family, so it was not too strange for him to know Liu Qianqian. Ye Xiaoxian asked Li Hongmei to first bring a bowl of rose plum soup to Schr Wong, then asked Xiao Baozhu to make a fire and she began cooking. While she was cooking, Ye Xiaoxian nced at Xiao Baozhu who was somewhat in a daze. Ever since Xiao Baozhu began reading novels she sometimes looked like this. Ye Xiaoxian did not think too much of it but only reminded her, Baozhu, pay attention to the fire. Dont let the fire stir up too much. Xiao Baozhu replied shortly. Yes. Once Schr Wongs dishes were ready, Xiao Baozhu put down the fire poker and stood up immediately. Sister-inw, let me take the food to Schr Wong. Sure, be quick, said Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baozhu took the dishes with her and went out as swiftly as a gust of wind. Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit strange but the moment Li Hongmei came in delivering the orders, saying that there was a group of new customers who wanted to try fish fillets in hot chili oil, Ye Xiaoxian did not dwell on her thoughts and went to cook at once. She expected Xiao Baozhu to return quickly but Ye Xiaoxians food was already in the pan and Baozhu still hadnte back. Ye Xiaoxian had no option but to cook dishes while tending the fire, having her work cut out for her. As for Xiao Baozhu, she was chatting with Schr Wong and Liu Qianqian. As soon as she served the food Xiao Baozhu appeared to be surprised. Schr Wong, howe youre here? Liu Qianqian happened to know Xiao Baozhu as well so she said to Schr Wong. This is Xiao Baozhu, my friends sister. The friend she mentioned was of course referring to Ye Xiaoxian. Schr Wong already knew Xiao Baozhu but still could not remember her name, though out of politeness he still said to Liu Qianqian, I know. Ive already met them, including the friend of yours. Schr Wong then told Liu Qianqian how he met and got to know Ye Xiaoxian. Liu Qianqian eximed, I know, Qinghe Vige is as tiny as a palm. Once you know one person youve actually got to know seven or eight of others too. Seeing Xiao Baozhu still standing there Liu Qianqian then asked her, Baozhu, arent you busy now? Feel free to go back and work, will you? Xiao Baozhu answered hurriedly, Im not that busy. My sister-inw has hired two staff and I...I just give her a hand when I have nothing to do. She nced at Schr Wong while she was speaking. Xiao Baozhu was worrying that Schr Wong would despise her as a waitress. Liu Qianqian then said, I see. So hows it going with the novels? Have you learned all the characters? Yes, I have. There arent many characters that I cant read now. Not bad at all. You can read some more profound bookster on, said Liu Qianqian. Xiao Baozhu then turned to Schr Wong. I dont know many profound books. Mr. Wong, could you rmend some for me? Schr Wong said, You may want to read Records of the Grand Historian first. You can only be knowledgeable about the world by learning more about history. Baofeng has the book. Then Ill borrow it from Baofeng next time, said Xiao Baozhu. She was still not willing to leave. This was a ce for having meals while she was just standing there, making both Liu Qianqian and Schr Wong feel a bit awkward, however, they were acquaintances so they could not ask her to leave, so Liu Qianqian asked her, Baozhu, why dont you sit down and eat with us? No, how could I! Xiao Baozhu also knew that it was inappropriate. She just wanted to spend more time with Schr Wong. It was just that Schr Wong did not really mind her but only focused on tasting the dishes which Ye Xiaoxian made. It was his first time trying the food made by Ye Xiaoxian and he had tasted happiness. Liu Qianqian did not know what to chat with Xiao Baozhu about as they were from different sses after all, without too much inmon, which would make their chatting nothing but awkward conversation. Besides, having the cuisine presented in front of her but still having to give her attention to others was such torture. Liu Qianqian then reminded Baozhu again. Baozhu, if you dont eat, well start then. Yea, sure! said Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baozhu was still standing there and watching Liu Qianqian and Schr Wong eat together. Liu Qianqian and Schr Wong then began to chat on their own and what they talked about was far beyond Xiao Baozhus knowledge, so shecouldnt possibly add anything of value. It was only by then that she began feeling a bit awkward. She went back to the kitchen sulkily. At that moment, Little Five picked up a pot of boiled fish and went out. Seeing Baozhu being so absent-minded, Little Five then hurriedly reminded her, Miss Baozhu, be careful. Miss Baozhu? Xiao Baozhu did not know why she had suddenly be a Miss, but felt a moment of ecstasy because of the title. Thats right. Her familys restaurant had hired staff and of course the staff had to call her miss, didnt they? The reason that she was upset was because she could not chat freely with Schr Wong and Liu Qianqian, but when the restaurant was expanded in the future wouldnt she also be a rich youngdy? She would be like Liu Qianqian by then. She could go anywhere she wanted and know a lot of important people from the wealthy families in town. By then she and Schr Wong would naturally be together. Chapter 84 - Why Is He Such a Fool?

Chapter 84: Why Is He Such a Fool?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio ...When Xiao Baozhu came back to the kitchen her face was still beaming. Ye Xiaoxian was currently busy, but seeing that Baozhu was back she hurriedly said to her, Baozhu, hurry up and help me to stir the fire. When Xiao Baozhu heard that she had to stir the fire she became reluctant again, with her radiant smile being reced by depression. Whats wrong? Ye Xiaoxian asked her while waving the spat. Noth...nothing... Xiao Baozhu went back to the stove and started tending to the fire. The fire was burning merrily now and the mes warmed her face, making her feel a little sickly. She suddenly thought, Am I going to spend my whole life idling in front of the stove? Ye Xiaoxian was doing sweet and sour ribs and taught Xiao Baozhu while cooking. Baozhu, look at how I stir-fry these ribs. Its pretty easy so you can do it the next time Im not around. You just need to put the marinated ribs into the wok with some oil... Ye Xiaoxian taught with her full passion but Xiao Baozhu was learning without any spirit and forgot as soon as she looked, making an mhmm sound from time to time. Ye Xiaoxian noticed that Xiao Baozhu was not very keen on cooking so she did not force her to learn. Firstly, everyone had their own ways and secondly, Ye Xiaoxian very much a busy bee. There were so many dishes she was yet to cook and so many orders being put on hold. ...They did not have fridges in this era and as they were in the southern area they had no cer with which to save food. Because of this the ingredients would easily go off, so Ye Xiaoxian and others would purchase quantified ingredients in the morning and once a certain ingredient was sold out, guests simply could not order those dishes. Sometimes they were short of certain ingredients and sometimes they had extra to store up. Ye Xiaoxian would cook the extra ingredients for others including the two hired hands, Little Five and Little Six. The Xiaos Cuisine also provided dinner and after they had seen off thest group of customers, by then the day had usually bepletely dark and all of them would have their dinner by candlelight. The days just flew by once they were fully upied. The restaurant had been open for a month and Ye Xiaoxian calcted and checked the ounting book for the current month. After expenses their earnings were forty tales of silver that month. While Ye Xiaoxian was doing her ounts, Xiao Baozhu bent over the counter admiring the abacus as it made its popping noise in Ye Xiaoxians hands. Sister-inw, youre brilliant. You know everything! said Xiao Baozhu sincerely. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. A smattering of everything. Sister-inw, can you teach me how to do the ounting job? asked Xiao Baozhu tentatively. Ye Xiaoxian stopped moving the beads of the abacus and asked Xiao Baozhu, You want to learn ounting? Mhmm, is that okay? Xiao Baozhu asked shyly. Why do you want to learn ounting all of a sudden? I think doing the ounting job requires me to learn more and it looks great. I also can be in contact with more people in the lounge and bring in more guests together with Ma, said Xiao Baozhu. Ye Xiaoxian hesitated. She meant to teach Xiao Baozhu her cooking skills. It looked very good to do ounting but Xiao Baozhu would have no other way out once she left The Xiaos Cuisine. It was different from being a master chef which allowed one to make a living everywhere. Still, different people have different aspirations, so since Xiao Baozhu had her own idea, Ye Xiaoxian chose to respect her decision. I can let you do the ounting, said Ye Xiaoxian. But for now, during the daytime, you still have to tend to the fire in the kitchen and Ill teach you during evening. When you master it, Ill allow you to take the bills and do the ounting job. Xiao Baozhu was cheered up and said excitedly, Sister-inw, thank you, Ill learn hard. ...Li Hongmei was tidying up tables and chairs in the restaurant and had heard everything that Xiao Baozhu said. Li Hongmei could not help turning around and saying to her daughter, Baozhu, its actually better for you to learn cooking skills from your sister-inw. You should know that little Yes cooking skills are unique and nobody else knows of them. If you learn them well you can give a hand to your sister-inw, right? Xiao Baozhu was not pleased by this so she retorted directly, Sister-inw has promised to teach me ounting, so I dont have to learn cooking skills. After Xiao Baozhu had finished speaking she became afraid that Li Hongmei was going to lecture her, so she ran off to the backyard. Li Hongmei shook her head and said to Ye Xiaoxian, Look at you. Youre always doting on her. Its up to her, said Ye Xiaoxian. Shes just vain, thinking that being a fire-tending girl or a cook is indecent, so thats why she wants to be at the counter doing the ounts. Baozhu is going really-di-dately and thinks too highly of herself. Li Hongmei was deeply worried. Ye Xiaoxian just smiled. Shes only human and its understandable, so long as she knows how far to go and when to stop. Either in these ancient times or in the modern era, who doesnt want to befortable in an office, and who would wish to be a fire tender in a kitchen? Ma, Ill go to the city gate again tomorrow and hire a fire tender, said Ye Xiaoxian light-heartedly. Li Hongmei was already done with Baozhu but began talking about Baoshan. Little Ye, Baoshan hasnte back home for a while, has he? Will the work hes doing at the dock be dangerous? Well this...Im not sure about. Ye Xiaoxian stopped what she was working on. I keep feeling a bit uneasy in my heart, continued Li Hongmei worriedly. Baoshan is capable and good at kung fu so he should be fine. Ye Xiaoxianforted Li Hongmei. Little Ye, arent you worried about him a little bit? Ye Xiaoxian also asked herself: Am I worried about him? She seemed not to have time to worry about Xiao Baoshan. They had not made much progress in their rtionship and back when they were still living together they werent intimate at all. Now, as they had stopped living together and she was busy all the time, how could she spare any time to worry about Xiao Baoshan? Ma, Ill go to the dock someday to ask what Baoshan is busy with, said Ye Xiaoxian. You two... Li Hongmei sighed. ...The docks at Qinghe County. All three sides of the ce were surrounded by the river and the waterway was well developed. There were all kinds of shipsing and going along the river. He was charged with a shipment of goods and the goods hadnt been loaded on board. He was told that these goods belonged to a northern businessman. He needed to take care of the shipment and loading, and his job would not bepleted until the cargo ship left the dock. One needed to hire some strong porters to load the shipment. As Xiao Baoshan was standing at one side and looking over, that northern businessman thought that Xiao Baoshan, being tall and strong, was also one of the porters so he directly shouted to Xiao Baoshan. Hey, what are you standing there for? Come over quickly and help to carry stuff. Xiao Baoshan was pretty honest and was not used to refusing others so he only paused for a split second before going over and starting to help. Others could only carry one box at a time but he could carry three, doubling the efficiency of the job. Those porters had been doing this work for a long time. Knowing that Xiao Baoshan was not really one of them but still just worked hard without getting the pay, those porters felt rather pleased and none of them stuck their neck out to say anything on behalf of Xiao Baoshan. Not far away, Third Xing was looking at Xiao Baoshan. Third Xings man, the one called Skinny Monkey, was at his side. Skinny Monkey, I wonder, why is this Xiao Baoshan so stupid? He really is. They arent paying him for carrying stuff and he didnt even think to say no. Third Xing was ying with two pebbles in his hand and said to Skinny Monkey, Go and bring him over here! Chapter 85 - Night Raid

Chapter 85: Night Raid

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio ...Skinny Monkey went to inform Xiao Baoshan and he came over in a minute. Xiao Baoshan did not speak but only watched Third Xing as if seeing something written across his face: Whats the matter? He knew that Xiao Baoshan was good at kung fu and had a rather stiff personality, but there was one more thing; Xiao Baoshan was an honest man who could be be persuaded by reason but not be cowed by force. As long as one spoke to him nicely, Xiao Baoshan could be manipted by thempletely. Baoshan, have you been doing well on the dock? asked Third Xing. Not bad, said Xiao Baoshan. So do you want to take some extra work? asked Third Xing. Like going to sail on a ship? Xiao Baoshans primary role was to take care of the dock but sailing on a ship was more like escort work. On thend there were bandits and burrs while on the waters there were pirates. Once those piratesid their eyes on the shipment of cargo they would catch others off guard and rob them. Some traders often hired a couple of hands to sail onboard the ship to frighten off the pirates. Xiao Baoshan said immediately, Sure. He knew that he would get paid for it. After making it sessfully the trader would pay him directly. However, Third Xing became silent again and just squinted towards Xiao Baoshan with a grin. Xiao Baoshan knew that Third Xing was asking for a share and he knew the rule, so he asked Third Xing frankly, How many shares do you want? There was a hidden rule at the dock. When those who sailed in the ship finished their job they had to divide the reward between themselves the one who was in charge of the dock and as for the actual share, they could discuss this amongst themselves. Third Xing patted Xiao Baoshan on the shoulder and suddenly smiled. Youre very well informed of the rule here. A businessman from Fu Province came to me a couple of days ago and he has a ship that needs somebody to sail with to the dock at the other side. It takes around six days to return and the reward is eight taels. So when youe back with the money, fifty-fifty. How does it sound? Half of them? Even Skinny Money was taken aback. Third Xing was demanding an exorbitant price. Wasnt this a bit too much? Still, Third Xing was looking at Xiao Baoshan rather calmly as he could tell that so long as he did not use force against Xiao Baoshan, Xiao Baoshan would never bargain with him. Baoshan, the businessman from Fu became acquainted with me first and if it werent for me youd never know him, am I right? In this case, I dont think Ive asked for too much with the four taels of silver. Whats more, as you sail aboard his ship hell provide you with amodation and food, and within six days youll earn four taels. I dont see why not? Third Xing kept bargaining with him. Xiao Baoshan nodded. Okay. When is the sailing time? At noon tomorrow, said Third Xing. After Xiao Baoshan turned around and left, Skinny Monkey then turned to Third Xing. Boss, have...Isnt that a little bit too much of the share youve asked for? Is it? said Third Xing. Does what I just said not make sense? Without me how would he even know a businessman from Fu? But I heard that midway to Fu there were pirates causing trouble and those pirates were very savage. Im just thinking, what if Xiao Baoshanes across any danger during his trip? Then it depends on his fate! Third Xing finished talking and looked at Skinny Monkey displeased. Why on earth should you worry so much about that? Hurry up and keep a close eye on your domain. I, Im on my way! ...At noon the next day, as per his appointment, Xiao Baoshan went on board with the businessman from Fu. This businessman was called Wen Lei and what he was transporting was a shipment of ironware which was counted as precious goods. Wen Lei met Xiao Baoshan for the first time and did not fully trust him at first sight, but as he saw Xiao Baoshan looking so tall and muscr and as strong as an ox he then asked, Have, have you practiced martial arts? How many can you take down on your own? I have practiced martial arts! Xiao Baoshan replied. It depends on how capable the others are. Wen Lei also touched Xiao Baoshans arms and still did not rest at ease until hed felt Xiao Baoshans swelling triceps and biceps. Well, welle up with us then. I heard from Third Xing that youre good at fighting. I hope that he didnt give me the wrong person. Xiao Baoshan got in Wen Leis ship. It was the usual sort of cargo ship and all of the cargo was covered with oil paper. The ships cabins were at the bottom where there were two rooms which could amodate four or five people. The ship moved off smoothly when it set out from the dock of Qinghe County. Xiao Baoshan sat on the deck in the daytime and only went below into the cabin to take a nap in the evening. The fog came down like a curtain over the river but he looked rather peaceful. They had food on board also since Wen Lei was afraid of bumping into any kind of trouble, so even when they passed by some docks they would not be allowed to get off the ship, but ate dried food instead. Xiao Baoshan followed them to eat the dried food as well. The night before they were due to reach Fu Province, Xiao Baoshan suddenly felt a thrusting motion in the hull of the ship and sensed that it did not bode well, so he lunged for the deck. However, Xiao Baoshan then heard the swoosh sounds of arrows and began protecting others going down to the cabin. After he was sure that nobody was missing he asked everyone in the cabin to keep quiet. He himself grabbed a shield and went back on the deck once again. It was dark and aside from the burningntern nothing was visible. What was worse, thentern had been shot down by the pirates. Xiao Baoshan did not panic but began to feel his way through the darkness. The noise of people and arrows shooting came from the same direction but there should also be pirates beneath the ship. The order of pirates robbing the goods was firstly ughtering the people and then taking over the ship, so they normally would not damage the hull. Therefore Xiao Baoshan did not worry about the ship being damaged by them. He was just waiting quietly for the pirates toe on board. Finally, there was some sound from astern made by a man climbing onto the deck. In the dark Xiao Baoshan dashed towards him like a spirit and after he found the pirates neck, Xiao Baoshan snapped it right away. Once those pirates had be thieves they would not mend their ways even if they were arrested and put in jail. Xiao Baoshan did not mind sending them to hell. Furthermore, they were not ordinary robbers. If someone stole something in the street, perhaps he could be locked up and educated, but not these pirates as they all had murder to their names, so no matter how long they stayed in jail their corrupted souls had long be incorrigible. After Xiao Baoshan had taken down this one he heard another one climb on board. He dashed towards the other and did the same thing again until the pirate was sinking beneath the water without a sound. The pirate boat was not far away. The pirates n was to send several of these men to the ship and after everyone on board had been killed the other pirates were able tond on the ship. However, they had fired arrows and sent sailors to the cargo ship but there was nothing happening. After quite some time someone shouted, Hey, anyone there? There was not a single sound in this empty water. The pirates boat was quiet again as all the men found it rather spooky. Even if their men had been taken down they would have at least screeched. Therefore, men in the pirate boat lit torches which illuminated the cargo ship. However, the cargo ship was still quiet without a trace of light or footsteps, as if it were a ghost ship. The pirates were bold and actually moved towards the cargo ship. There were still ten or so of them in their boat and when the cargo ship drew nearer they found that there was still no sounding from it. Once again some reckless guys carried their des and climbed onto the cargo ship... Chapter 86 - Giving Her A Pearl Hairpin Chapter 86: Giving Her A Pearl Hairpin Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Before these reckless pirates found out what was going on, however, they heard several screeches. There were twenty pirates in total, including five sailors and those men who had climbed onto the deck of the cargo ship first, and now there were only seven or eight of them on board their ship. After those pirates heard the screeching how would they dare to climb aboard the ship again. They thought that this ship was either haunted or there was some kung fu masters in it, so the men still in the pirate boat rowed away, fleeing as quickly as possible without regard for their ship mates lives. However, behind them came flying knives which took down three or four of them all at once and they died from their own weapons. The rest of pirates almost pissed their pants in terror, rowed off their boat and escaped. The river became tranquil again and thenterns in the cargo ship were lit up once more. Xiao Baoshan went inside the cabin, informing Wen Lei and the boatman. Wen Lei shrank in the corner shuddering as did the boatman, asking Xiao Baoshan in a trembling voice, Pi, pirates, where are they? Theyve been dealt with! said Xiao Baoshan. He had also thrown their bodies into the river. This river was broad and many corpses were pushed by the water to the bank. As the bodies had been carried down by the water from upstream most of them were unrecognizable, so their rtives could not find them and the government would just burn them all at once. Wen Lei and the boatman heard that the pirates had been taken down so they quivered and crawled out. Wen Lei still asked in doubt, I only heard several screeches, how many pirates were there? It was so dark that I couldnt tell. Hearing Xiao Baoshans answer, Wen Lei dared note out again as he was afraid that there might be some others still around. Meanwhile he was also on guard against Xiao Baoshan since he was afraid that Xiao Baoshan may turn out to be one of the pirates. Xiao Baoshan did not exin or anything. He took some wine with him and went back to the deck. The wind was strong at night and he needed some wine to keep himself warm. The boatman was hired so he could not possibly hide down there like Wen Lei did, so he had to go and sail again but did so with extreme fear. Wen Lei did not dare toe out until morning. On the deck Xiao Baoshan was leaning on the bow and drinking. The view of his back was tall and straight against the broad river behind him which made him look like a lonely, heroic soul. Wen Lei thought to himself, I suppose Ive hired the right man. We wont have to worry about pirates at all for the rest of our trip. It took one more day for them to arrive at Fu dock. Wen Lei brought someone to unload the shipment, gave Xiao Baoshan eight taels of silver and booked another returning cargo ship for Xiao Baoshan, then they bid each other farewell. Xiao Baoshan was not talkative from the very beginning and he went aboard the other cargo ship after bidding farewell to Wen Lei, then disappeared into the cabin. Wen Lei stood on the dock and thought, I should ask this guy, Xiao Baoshan, to sail with my ship again next time. ...Three dayster, Xiao Baoshan went back to the dock of Qinghe County. Skinny Monkey saw Xiao Baoshan returning and went to report to Third Xing right away. Boss, Xiao Baoshan came back alive! This is good. I knew hed be all right, said Third Xing confidently. Recently so many people were talking about the pirates around Fu Province and said they saw several bodies in the rive, wondering if those were the bodies of pirates or the cargo traders. All in all, there was nothing good about it. Skinny Monkey was worried about Xiao Baoshan by then. Although Xiao Baoshan was not his rtive, he was sent from Qinghe County and the dock would be involved in his case if anything happened to him, moreover, Xiao Baoshan went to sail in a hurry and did not even inform his family so it would be bad if his family came and caused trouble at the dock. As Xiao Baoshan now came back safely, Skinny Monkey was terribly excited. Boss, Xiao Baoshan was indeed capable, but about those bodies in the Fu river, do you think it was him that did that? Skinny Monkey wondered. Third Xing hinted at him with his eyes to shut up. Dont talk nonsense. We only sail in the ship and dont kill others. Yes, yes, we surely dont. While the two were talking, Xiao Baoshan entered. Third Xing changed into another expression and patted Xiao Baoshans shoulder with warmth. Brother Baoshan, you finally came back. We were so worried about you. Sorry to trouble you, Xiao Baoshan said inly and took out four taels of silver. Eight taels in total and here you are, four taels. Right, thanks. Third Xing patted Xiao Baoshans shoulder again and took the money as agreed. Xiao Baoshan said again, Ive been away from home for some time so can I ask for a break of several days while I go back to see my family. Sure, certainly. The sailing is indeed exhausting, as you have to eat, drink, wee and poo and everything in the ship, so its time for you to reconnect with thend. Then go back and see your family. Dont you have a little bride too? I met her oncest time. Xiao Baoshan did not make small talk with Third Xing but just turned around and left the room. ...Xiao Baoshan said that he missed his family but actually what he cared the most for Lately he had been living aboard the ship and eating solid food like dried buns and jerky without even any hot soup. What he thought about most frequently were Ye Xiaoxians sweet and sour ribs, fish fillets in hot chili oil or the appetizing crystal chicken feet. On the way to the restaurant he passed by a stall which sold essories. He spotted a jade-green pearl hairpin and thought that it suited Ye Xiaoxians disposition very well, so he bought it. However, when he put it in his clothes he suddenly realized another problem which was what if Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu asked him about this, how could he answer? If he brought a gift for Ye Xiaoxian it meant that the only one he cared about was Ye Xiaoxian. Although it was true he must not be biased morally. After a second thought he bought a hornb and a beaded ne as well and then went back to the restaurant. ...Xiao Baoshan went in from the backyard and went straight to the kitchen. Ye Xiaoxian was cooking in the kitchen and while she was stirring with the spat she felt there was arge, tall figure looming and she turned around hurriedly. Baoshan! said Ye Xiaoxian surprised. They had not seen each other for almost a month and Xiao Baoshan had be thinner and his skin darker. However, as he had handsome features along with his special aura, his looks not only had not been affected but he had an even more heroic spirit. Xiao Baoshan went in front of Ye Xiaoxian, looked at the big wok and in it were the sweet and sour ribs which he had been longing for all these days. Baoshan, do you want to eat? Ye Xiaoxian had seen it. Xiao Baoshan nodded. Is it okay? Sure, its okay. Ill give you this and cook another for the customer, said Ye Xiaoxian. It had been one month that he had been away. Why was she finding Xiao Baoshan begging her for food like a child? Still, Xiao Baoshan behaving in this way actually seemed rather cute. Xiao Baoshan said, Thank you so much. Youre wee. Its rare for you toe back. Its smoky here in the kitchen so why dont you go to the hall to eat. Ask Ma to arrange a table for you, said Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan, however, still did not move. Whats wrong? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Is it not enough? And any fish fillets in chill oil left? Xiao Baoshan felt that he could eat an ox. Fine, you take a seat first and Ill cook it for youter. Ye Xiaoxian could tell that Xiao Baoshan was very exhausted now. Xiao Baoshan still did not move. After a while he fished out the pearl hairpin from his clothes and held it in front of Ye Xiaoxian. Little Ye, this is for you. Chapter 87 - Xiao Baoshan Felt Wronged

Chapter 87: Xiao Baoshan Felt Wronged

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio ...Ye Xiaoxian was taken aback. She was stupefied and the stir-fry in the wok almost burned. When she smelled the burning she then hurriedly put the overcooked sweet and sour ribs on a te. She secretly considered herself lucky. Luckily it was for Baoshan and between families this isnt a big deal! Howe youre suddenly bringing me a gift? asked Ye Xiaoxian surprised. Its a genuine pearl hairpin. Could it be that he left home for a month and suddenly realized her merits and missed her, so he then decided to give her a token of his affection? In fact, he had not given her any gifts for quite some time. I saw it on the street and thought it suited you well, so I bought it, said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit shy and wiped her hands on her apron several times then carefully took the hairpin from him. It was heavy and the jade looked of high quality. It was different than in the modern era when one has to go to a fancy jeweler to buy top-ss jade. In this era, one could easily find fine crafts on the street, as the real craftsmen were among themon people. Ye Xiaoxian looked at Xiao Baoshan again shyly and Xiao Baoshan also felt a little self-conscious, not even knowing where to ce his hands and feet. He then took the te of sweet and sour ribs and said to Ye Xiaoxian, Well, well, Im going out to eat first. Go ahead and Ill cook some fish fillets in chili oil for youter, said Ye Xiaoxian. When Xiao Baoshan went to the lounge, Ye Xiaoxian felt all the veins under her skin were boiling hot and her heart was beating so fast that she could not put her joy into words. She thought that Xiao Baoshan must have indicated something, as if he was going to confess his love to her. Otherwise why should he go inside from the backyard and slip into the kitchen to give her the hairpin. The new fire-tender was also a little girl who was bought by Ye Xiaoxian for eight taels of silver. She was only twelve years old and was called Xian. Xian saw Ye Xiaoxian chuckle like this and she could not help but giggle along too. Ye Xiaoxian then asked Xian, What are you giggling about? Sister Ye is giggling so Im giggling too, said Xian. She then asked, Sister Ye, is that your husband? Yes. Ye Xiaoxian inserted the hairpin into her hair but took it out after a while. She did not want Li Hongmei and others to see it or they would surly tease her and Baoshan. She thought that maybe she would go out tomorrow and pretend that she had bought a hairpin and lie to Li Hongmei that shed bought it herself. She would treat this pearl hairpin as a little secret only between Baoshan and herself and would wear it every day. ...Li Hongmei was serving customers in the hall and suddenly saw Xiao Baoshan carrying a bowl of sweet and sour ribs. She paused in a daze first and then hurried over to Baoshan. Baoshan, when did youe back? Not long before, said Xiao Baoshan. But youre... Li Hongmei pointed at the ribs in his bowl. Little Ye said that this one is for me. Ma, I got to eat first. Im so hungry. Xiao Baoshan found an empty table and then started eating hungrily. Li Hongmei also sat next to her son. Seeing that Xiao Baoshan had be darker and thinner and was eating like a hungry wolf, Li Hongmei felt sorry for him. Baoshan, howe youre so hungry? Is the job at the dock that exhausting? Xiao Baoshan answered while eating. Not that exhausting. Its just that I went sailing on a ship a few days ago and had been eating nothing but dried food, so I feel kind of hungry now. Well, have more then, said Li Hongmei with mothering pity. Xiao Baoshan thought about the beaded ne and the hornb which he bought for Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu, so he took them out to show Li Hongmei. Ma, this is for you and Baozhu. The ne is for you and theb is for Baozhu. Ah, what a pretty ne and its red! Li Hongmei took the ne joyfully and put it around her neck straight away. What about little Ye? Have you bought anything for her? asked Li Hongmei. This kid, dont you forget to buy gifts for Ye Xiaoxian. She is your wife. Xiao Baoshan said frankly, I bought her a pearl hairpin and have already given it to her in the kitchen just now. Really? Is it pretty? How does it look? asked Li Hongmei. Xiao Baoshan did not speak as he did not know how to describe it. Li Hongmei ran straight to the kitchen. Ye Xiaoxian was cooking fish filet in chili oil and still in quite a happy mood because Xiao Baoshan had actually bought her a gift. The hairpin was in her pocket and she felt it was so heavy. Little Ye, little Ye, has Baoshan given you a hairpin? What does it look like? Show it to Ma, Li Hongmei shouted to her. ... Ye Xiaoxian was confused, how did Li Hongmei find it out? Ye Xiaoxian looked at her carefully and spotted a new beaded ne on her neck. Ma, is that also from Baoshan? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Yes, not only for me but Baozhu also got one. Hers is a hornb. It must be because that brat Baozhu doesnt like tob her hair so thats why Baoshan bought her ab. Ye Xiaoxian felt instantly disappointed. It turned out that she was not the only one who received a gift, but everyone did. In his heart she was not special but the same as every family member of his. Little Ye, what did Baoshan give you? Quickly, show me. Li Hongmei said again. Ye Xiaoxian did not feel that the hairpin was burning hot or heavy or anything. This was nothing but an ordinary hairpin. Perhaps Xiao Baoshan gave her the gift in order to get her to cook for him. Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu were his rtives so even if they did not cook for him, he would still buy gifts for them. Thinking about it, she felt that she was not even as important as Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu in his heart. She took out the hairpin and put it into Li Hongmeis hand. Ma, why dont you keep it for me. Im still working so its not very convenient for me to have it now. Little Ye, your hairpin is really nice, much better than my ne. If you like it, Ma, you can take it, said Ye Xiaoxian. Of course not, Baoshan bought this for you so how could I possibly take it for myself? Ill just keep it for you now and will give it back to you in the evening so you can wear it tomorrow. Li Hongmei chuckled. However, on second thought Li Hongmei sensed something strange. Why does Little Ye look unhappy? Whats the matter with her? She looked at Ye Xiaoxian again who was about to sprinkle chili power into the fish fillet and she took a handful of it. Little Ye, why, why are you putting so much chili in it? Which customer ordered it? Baoshan did, said Ye Xiaoxian shortly. Did Baoshan ask for that much chili? He said so just now, said Ye Xiaoxian as she stirred the chili power into the dish, put it on a te and said to Li Hongmei, Ma, please take this to Baoshan. Ri, right. Li Hongmei was puzzled. Whats wrong with little Ye? Is she happy to see Baoshan back? Li Hongmei took the te of fish fillet in chili oil which was covered in chili powder to Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan only took one bite and began coughing constantly due to the spiciness. So hot! he said to Li Hongmei. Did you not ask little Ye to put more chili in it? asked Li Hongmei. ...I didnt, said Xiao Baoshan feeling wronged. So what did you say to little Ye in the kitchen just now? Xiao Baoshan hesitated. Li Hongmei exined, Little Ye looks rather unhappy now so youd better tell me what happened and let me figure out the reason. Xiao Baoshan then told her the whole story. After Li Hongmei heard it she suddenly scolded Xiao Baoshan, You fool! Chapter 88 - Investigating Into Who She Is

Chapter 88: Investigating Into Who She Is

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio ...... Xiao Baoshan still did not know why he was a fool. Li Hongmei said, If you want to buy a gift for little Ye, just buy hers. You dont have to also buy one for Baozhu and I. As little Ye now knows this, she mustnt feel happy. Look at how much chili she put in this. Thats how she feels now. Xiao Baoshan said frankly, I originally just wanted to buy a gift for her only but Im afraid that Baozhu and you will be unhappy so I bought yours as well. Ye Xiaoxian could not help rolling her eyes towards Xiao Baoshan. So whats going on now is that Baozhu and I are also unhappy because you didnt mean to buy gifts for us. Xiao Baoshan sat there in a trance. Li Hongmei sighed. I mean, you dont have to care whether Baozhu and I are happy or not for now. Just remember that next time if you want to bring her a gift, just buy hers and dont worry about the rest of us. Okay? Xiao Baoshan picked up some fish with his chopsticks and ate with sweat streaming down his face. Ma, give me a bowl of water and Ill rinse it before I eat, said Xiao Baoshan feeling so wronged. Li Hongmei then passed him a bowl of water and asked him. Have you heard what I just said? Yes, I did, said Xiao Baoshan. ...The first couple of days when Xiao Baoshan just came back home, Ye Xiaoxian paid almost no attention to him. He was still living with Xiao Baofeng and when Xiao Baofeng went to school in the daytime, Xiao Baoshan would read a book in the backyard. Inside the room while reading a book he could still smell the very strong fragrance of the dishes. Xiao Baoshan had a good appetite and would feel hungry just from smelling the food. That day he went to the kitchen and wanted to get some chicken feet to eat. Ye Xiaoxian was cooking and when she saw himing in she did not even say hello to him but just minded her own business. Xiao Baoshan then thought, Little Ye seems really mad! He wanted to exin to Ye Xiaoxian but did not know how. As Ye Xiaoxian did not talk to him it was appropriate for him to get the chicken feet on his own since they were made by her. He finally left with a starving stomach. Ye knew that Xiao Baoshan hade in and then left silently and she could not help but sigh. It was true that she was unable tomunicate with him. They seemed not to be made for each other. Meanwhile, she was also wondering whether she going to be able to maintain this kind of spousal rtionship, which existed in name only, for a whole lifetime? If she was, how tedious the rest of her life would be. She had either to discuss it and divorce Xiao Baoshan peacefully or leave this family alone without taking any property and get married again. Still, no matter which way she finally had to choose, she would end up suffering a lot from the loss of both time and strength. She just had to make do with it for now. ...Ye Xiaoxian had cooked a dish but neither Little Five nor Li Hongmei came in to take it out. Little Five probably went to the toilet and Li Hongmei must have tended to other business. Dishes in the restaurant were cooked with more oil and once it went cold it would taste greasy, so it had to be served hot. Ye Xiaoxian then just took it out on her own. These sweet and sour ribs were ordered by the customers at table six where three men were seated. Those three were very conspicuous. One was short, one was fat and the other was skinny. Sirs, here are the ribs you ordered! said Ye Xiaoxian politely. When she put down the dish and was going to leave Ye Xiaoxian was called by the short man. This guy was only 156cm in a modern metric units and looked ugly also, with protruding eyeballs and a nasty smile. Oh, are you a cook or a waitress? The short guy asked Ye Xiaoxian. He was checking Ye Xiaoxian out from head to toe. In order to work conveniently, what Ye Xiaoxian wore was a tight outfit without wide sleeves and with a belt strapped around her slim waist. Once her waist was tightened up her curves were revealed more. A girl of fifteen or sixteen was experiencing physical growth and change so Ye Xiaoxian looked particrly attractive with her feminine elegance. Ye Xiaoxian sensed that the man was harboring evil thoughts but still answered politely, Im the cook. Wait a second and let me have a try of your dish. The short guy put a bit of the rib in his mouth. It was tasty but he said disgustedly on purpose, This rib tastes rather too salty, doesnt it? The other two also tasted them. Of course they did not think they were too salty but still they answered dishonestly, Its indeed a bit too salty. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Then shall I add more water in it and stir fry them one more time? Itll taste less salty after that. No need, just be careful next time. Were all gentlemen and miss, you have a such a pretty face so how could we bear to let you run back and forth, said the short guy, his face still smiling. Thank you so much for your understanding, sirs. I have more dishes to cook so please excuse me and enjoy, said Ye Xiaoxian. Li Hongmei was taking another tables bill when she noticed that Ye Xiaoxian seemed to be in trouble, so she was on her way to help her. However, Ye Xiaoxian had left quickly. When Li Hongmei arrived there Ye Xiaoxian was already on her way to the kitchen. Li Hongmei then paid more attention to the appearance of those three guys. ording to her experience she considered the short one to be the nastiest and was definitely a womanizer. She swore silently. Horrible, ugly losers. A toad wishes to eat swan meat (Chinese idiom: an ugly man hopes to marry a pretty girl). ...After Ye had returned to the kitchen the short guy picked up another rib and did not bite into it but stuck out his tongue and licked it slowly, which looked extremely filthy. The other two partners of his, Fatty and Skinny, saw this so they said grinning, Young master Zhang, could it be that youve taken a fancy to that little missy? Young master Zhang licked his rib while his tiny eyes were rolling with wild imaginings. So what? You know Im always popr among girls with my rather good looks. Skinny said, But just days ago you just dated butcher Lius wife. Have you already forgotten her? Fatty added, Not just her. Youve also got Miss Fang from Gaily Spring. Are you already fed up with her? Gaily Spring was a brothel in the town and Miss Fang was the top girl there. Young master Zhang rebuked, How could you evenpare those two with the missy just now? Youve seen her with your own eyes. She doesnt put heavy makeup on or wear morous clothes. If Fang was this sweet and sour rib, the missy just now would be a sweet-scented osmanthus cake. Skinny did not really understand. Fatty did not really understand either. Young master Zhang finally put the rib in his mouth and ground the bone with his teeth, then said to Skinny and Fatty, You two help me to look into who has opened this restaurant and who that missy is. ...Xiao Baoshan could not get tasty food to eat so had no option but to wander the street. Meanwhile, he had bought some shortbread and a dozen pastries but he found none of them delicious. Whatever Ye Xiaoxian cooked, even if burned, would taste far better than this stuff. Still, he was not fussy about food and he had eaten far more disgusting things, so he could eat up the shortbread and pastries all right. He had been sauntering for a while and spotted another essory stall, so he selected a jade-green bangle. This bangle must go well with her hairpin. He had learned his lesson this time and only bought one for Ye Xiaoxian but not for Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu. When he went back home the dinner was also on. Chapter 89 - That Pretentious Jerk Is Coming Here Again

Chapter 89: That Pretentious Jerk Is Coming Here Again

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio ...It was now the afternoon, during which there were not so many customers around, so Ye Xiaoxian was finally free to have her meal. After Xiao Baoshan came back home, Little Five, Little Six and Xian began arranging the table while Ye Xiaoxian brought over thest course. Seeing that Xiao Baoshan hade home, Li Hongmei asked him to join them immediately. Xiao Baoshan sat down next to Ye Xiaoxian subconsciously but Ye Xiaoxian did not look at him. Due to the heavy steaming grease in the kitchen Ye Xiaoxian had been sweating a lot and her hair was sticking to her face. She wiped it up with her sleeves and after that her dainty little face looked rather fair. Xiao Baoshan could not help but feel dearly sorry for Ye Xiaoxian. She was kept busy in the kitchen all day long so she must have been exhausted. Xiao Baoshan had also heard that it was not healthy to inhale too much grease and so many cooks would end up suffering from consumption after years of working in the kitchen. Xiao Baoshan was then considering how he should improve the working conditions for Ye Xiaoxian in the kitchen. Since there were many people present Xiao Baoshan felt it was not proper to give Ye Xiaoxian her present right now so he hid it away and start eating the meal. As he expected, Ye Xiaoxians cooking was indeed the best and he had eaten four bowls of rice in a row which made Little Five, Little Six and Xian exim in awe. Fortunately Sister Yes husband was employed at the dock and if he stayed at home I wonder if he would make Sister Ye broke from eating that much. ...Xiao Baoshan still had not found an opportunity to give the bangle to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian just took a rest in the hall after having lunch. The time for the diners toe and eat was not fixed so she had to stay here and be ready to go back in the kitchen to cook at anytime. Little Five and the other two hands were also taking a rest in the hall, and only Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu went back to their room. Seeing that there was no chance to give Ye Xiaoxian her present, Xiao Baoshan then went to the kitchen alone. He took a good look at the kitchen, noting the position of the air intake and the air outlet and found that there was no air cirction between them, so it was no wonder that there was so much grease here. In order to let the grease out, the design of the kitchen had to be improved. Although Xiao Baoshan was not known for his artiction he was good at fixing things, especially doing so quietly. He began to work on it the moment he discovered the problems. He would asionally pound there and thump here. He tore up something and then fixed something else and it did not take even two hours before he had improved the air venttion in the kitchen. When Ye Xiaoxian and Xian came in they found the kitchen lit up and well ventted as Xiao Baoshan was winding up his work. Ye Xiaoxians attitude towards Xiao Baoshan then began to thaw and, meanwhile, she thought, Although were a couple existing in name only, its good to have a man around to help me to do some work after all. However, Xiao Baoshan still had not got a chance to give her the bangle. Once Ye Xiaoxian got back to the kitchen she began busying herself. There was a table of customers waiting for their dinner and when she started being busy she overlooked Xiao Baoshan who dared not disturb her at that moment. So he had no option but to go back to his room and take a rest, hoping that he could give it to her in the evening. Still, Ye Xiaoxian was also busy in the evening and was not free untilte at night, so she was again exhausted. She washed up quickly and then went to bed. ...At noon, Young Master Zhang went for lunch with Skinny and Fatty again. Skinny and Fatty had found out that the cook of The Xiaos Cuisine was called Ye Xiaoxian and her husband was a keeper of the dock and used to be a handyman in the government office. Hearing the words a keeper of the dock Young Master Zhang then felt that he had a good chance. Keepers of the dock looked fierce but they were nobody in terms of social ss and could only be bossy in the district around the dock. But who was this Young Master Zhang? His pa was the constable who managed all the attendants and handymen working for the government office. Young Master Zhang was short though, and with his pa as his backer he always harassed and flirted with women in the town. His watchword was: Im short physically but my charisma makes me look seven feet high. The reason that Young Master Zhang decided to flirt with women was because he was so short as a little boy that others always teased him by saying he could never find himself a wife. He was not happy about it and swore that he would get involved with two hundred pretty women in order to prove his charm. Young Master Zhang had now singled out Ye Xiaoxian. The Xiaos Cuisine had somehow made a name for itself mainly because Lord Liu and Liu Qianqian always dropped by, but Young Master Zhang found it so trivial as to be overlooked. Lord Lius job was merely a sinecure and he seldom came out to manage things, and besides, Young Master Zhang was convinced that he himself was a charming man. He did not support violent assault but believed that he could win a womans heart using his charisma. Fatty asked Young Master Zhang, Young Master Zhang, how are you going to win this chefdy? Young Master Zhang tried to put on an evil but charming smile, but it was only he himself who did not know how disgusting it was. Just my old n, giving them money and gifts. Skinny echoed him right away. Youre just so simple and direct, Young Master Zhang, every woman loves it. Young Master Zhang then shouted to Li Hongmei, The old wifey there,e here. ... Li Hongmei did not realize that he was calling to her for a while. Old wifey? Heh, never mind, I shouldnt stoop to their level and after all, all the customers here are our lords. Li Hongmei put on a smile and walked in front of Young Master Zhang. Sir, what would you like to order? Young Master Zhang immediately fished out three silver ingots, ced them on the table loudly and said cockily, Ask your cook toe here and Ill ask her what she can cook. Li Hongmei found that these three looked rather strange and recalled that they were the same gang from yesterday, so she smiled. Our chef is busy right now cooking dishes and Im afraid shes not free toe here. Why dont you sirs tell me what you would like to eat and Ill deliver your order to her. Is that alright? However, Young Master Zhang said in a cold voice. Who the hell are you? Hurry up and ask her toe out or Ill sit here all day and have your business ruined. Li Hongmei could only go to the kitchen and tell Ye Xiaoxian. Little Ye, those three short, fat and skinny men havee here again today and are asking for you to serve them. I can tell that theyre up to no good and may do something nasty to you, but Baoshan has already gone to the dock, so shall I go to the government office to look for your elder and third uncles... Have they said something? asked Ye Xiaoxian. They havent said much but insist to see you in person or theyll upy the table and spoil our business. Ye Xiaoxian sneered. She had been a chef for so many years and witnessed numerous unreasonable and nasty customers so she put down her spat and said to Li Hongmei, Ma, help me to cook this dish and Ill go out. Be careful, little Ye, said Li Hongmei perturbed. Dont worry, Ma, Ill be fine! ...Just as Ye Xiaoxian went out she spotted Young Master Zhang and his gang. Those three sitting together was such a sight and it would be hard not to notice them. She wore a little smile on her lips and walked towards them. I heard that you sirs are looking for me? Seeing Ye Xiaoxiane, Young Master Zhang immediately gave her his evil and charming smile and then put his hand on the table, tapping it beside the three silver ingots. Ye Xiaoxian saw the three silver ingots on the table and immediately judged that the one seated here was a pretentious jerk. Chapter 90 - The Gold Ingot Could Not Be Saved

Chapter 90: The Gold Ingot Could Not Be Saved

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio ...Ye Xiaoxian then decided to go along with them to gain a further benefit so she said tteringly, It turns out that you sirs are young masters from wealthy families. Im sorry about the slight, may I take your order please? Young Master Zhang put his elbow on the chair and sighed. Urgh, I have too much yang energy in my body and have lost my appetite so Im not sure what to eat. Have you got anything to rmend to us, miss? Ye then answered, Every dish in our restaurant is appetizing, like fish fillet in chili oil, cold Pigs ear, chicken feet with pickle peppers and I can also cook a whole boiled chicken... She had rmended all the dishes in her restaurant. Young Master Zhang asked confused, Is it alright to still eat spicy food when theres too much yang in me? Just like using poison as an antidote to cure the other poison. Itll be fine! said Ye Xiaoxian. However, she was thinking, Ill make it so hot that you jerks will die in it. Young Master Zhang continued, What if my poison cant be neutralized by the other poison? So will you be our antidote then? Fatty and Skinny burst intoughter. Ye Xiaoxian acted as if she was wronged and said, Sirs, youre all wealthy young masters, even if you taste all our dishes here it wont cost you much. How do you bear to get even with me, a humble ordinary woman, over such trifling matters? Just the day before yesterday, a sir came over and ordered every dish, and though he finally found them not to his taste he didnt ask me to return his money, but gave the rest away to the tramps at the bridgehead. Young Master Zhang heard this and found it made sense. The reason he came here today was to act as a rich guy and show off, yet what he just said sounded a bit too stingy. Then serve us one course each of all the dishes you just mentioned, said Young Master Zhang. Ye Xiaoxian continued. Theres a rule in our restaurant. When the food ordered by our customerses to more than two taels of silver, they need to pay a deposit before I cook for them. Young Master Zhang immediately gave two of the silver ingots to Ye Xiaoxian. Fine, here you are! Thank you, sir, Ye Xiaoxian was going to take them but Young Master Zhang groped her hands. Ye Xiaoxian felt disgusted but pretended not to feel anything. Sirs, please sit here for a while. I am on my way to cook your dishes. ...Once she entered the kitchen, Ye Xiaoxian immediately took out the silver ingots and washed them carefully as well as her hands. It was so disgusting, like being touched by a toad. Ye Xiaoxian began to cook after she had washed her hands thoroughly. Li Hongmei heard that Ye Xiaoxian had ripped off the Young Master Zhang which really cracked her up. Little Ye, I didnt know you could do such a thing. I thought you were too honest for that. Ye Xiaoxian said, It depends on what kind of people Im dealing with. Someone like Young Master Zhang who looks self-confident is actually self-abasing inside and afraid of being looked down upon by others, so hell be so snubby once others tter him a bit. If hed like to spend away his money, I wouldnt mind having him here everyday. Good job! Li Hongmei praised Ye Xiaoxian and then went to work in the hall. Meanwhile, she was listening carefully to what the three men were talking about. She heard Fattyplimenting him. Young Master Zhang, when that missy saw the silver her eyes went all googly. Skinny said, As expected, there are no girls who can resist Young Master Zhangs charm. As long as Young Master Zhang ces the sliver on the table, the chicks will take the bait. Young Master Zhang was eating the free stir fried peanuts and looked rather proud. This move never fails me. Hehe, wait and see and it wont take long before the missy throws herself into my arms. ... Li Hongmei was disgusted by him. This Young Master Zhang was thinking too highly of himself. He thought that she loved him for being himself? What she loved was your money, okay? You really should wait and see who will win and who will lose. ...Ye Xiaoxian cooked a whole tables worth of dishes for Young Master Zhang and the other two, and they surely would be unable to finish them. Li Hongmei asked him if he wanted to take them away and said that they had boxes which were twenty coins each, but Young Master Zhang was not interested in taking them away. For him, taking away food meant being stingy. He said to Li Hongmei in a snobbish tone, Its up to you to deal with the leftovers. You can eat them yourselves or give them out to beggars or feed the dogs, whatever, but anyway we cant be bothered. Li Hongmei said right away, Young Master Zhang, youre such a generous gentleman, throughout the town I cant find another man who canpete with you, I mean, not only this town but the whole world. Youre the most outstanding figure. Young Master Zhang was pleased by Li Hongmeis ttering and actually gave her ten coins as a tip. Li Hongmei also took it happily. It was not much but better than nothing at all. ...Young Master Zhang came again the following day. He did not take out three sliver ingots this time but put a gold ingot onto the table instead. Once again he asked Li Hongmei to tell Ye Xiaoxian toe over. Ye Xiaoxian came out and nced at the gold ingot on the table, sneering in her heart but smiling to him. Young Master Zhang, youve impressed me even more with your generosity. Your gold ingot even makes our humble inn look fancier. What would you like today, Young Master Zhang? Same as yesterday, one of each dish? The food can wait but Id like to ask you what kind of customer you prefer? asked Young Master Zhang with a smiling face. Ye Xiaoxian thought, You just want me to tter you, right? Still, Ye Xiaoxian acted dumb on purpose. There was an out-of-town merchant who came here the other day. That gentleman was what I call extravagant, and not only ordered a whole table of food for himself but paid the bill for all of the diners here. He said that hed just heard from home that his wife had given birth to a baby boy, so he was extremely happy. ... Young Master Zhangs smiling face was frozen all of a sudden. Skinny and Fatty also looked at each other in speechless despair. Although The Xiaos Cuisine was not very expensive and affordable for regr folk, he could not afford ordering a whole table of food every time he came, let alone paying the bills of every diner here, or his gold ingot would then be gone. If Young Master Zhangs pa knew of that his ass would be kicked hard. Young Master Zhang nced around and it happened to be lunch time, so the restaurant was almost packed. He thought to himself, I should leave ande back a bitter when there are only two or three tables upied. Ye Xiaoxian could tell what was in his mind so she added. When the merchant came that day, our restaurant was full without a single empty table. It was so rare to serve such a customer and it impressed me so much. Young Master Zhang gritted his teeth and made up his mind, asking, So you will be extremely impressed by me as long as I treat everyone here to their meal? Its rare to have such customers here so of course I would be extremely impressed. Young Master Zhang, are you sure that youll treat everyone to their meal? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Young Master Zhang thumped the table. Of course, its all on me! Ye Xiaoxian tipped Li Hongmei a wink and Li Hongmei began to p her hands and shouted loudly, Everyone, everyone, theres a good news for everyone! Young Master Zhang is in a good mood today and he says hes going to treat everyone to their meal. Everything youve ordered today is all on Young Master Zhang! The restaurant was suddenly stirred. Thank you, Young Master Zhang! Young Master Zhang, youre so generous. You must be really rich, are you? Young Master Zhang just looks extraordinary and so good-looking. Chapter 91 - The Last Move

Chapter 91: The Last Move

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio ...Everybody who had their meals paid for were overjoyed and were as ttered by this Young Master Zhang as it is possible to be, so Young Master Zhang becent again, even feeling it worth a good kicking up the ass by his old man back home. Ye Xiaoxian quickly added, Young Master Zhang, ording to the old rule you have to pay first when the bill is over two taels of silver. I roughly calcted that all the bills of our diners here are thirty taels, plus your own bill, lets make it thirty-three taels in total. Do you prefer to pay it with silver or this gold ingot of yours? One gold ingot equals to fifty taels of silver. Like bearing the pain of his flesh being cut off, Young Master Zhang passed the gold ingot to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye took it with a big smile and said, Ill give you the changeter. After Ye Xiaoxian went inside the kitchen she never again came out and even the change was given to Young Master Zhang by Li Hongmei. Young Master Zhang saw that a big gold ingot had now be some pale silvers and that kind of pain hurt him even more than being dismembered to death. Fatty knew that Young Master Zhangs heart hurt badly, as Young Master Zhang had flirted with so many girls and never spent so much money. He normally could get to hook up with a missy with ten or so taels of silver. Fatty then said, Sir, have we...suffered a loss? Weve already spent silver and gold now but that missy hasnt responded at all. Skinny said immediately, She appeared to give no response but perhaps she already secretly had a big crush on Young Master Zhang. When that missy turned around just now I noticed that she couldnt even hold back the smile on her lips. As for Young Master Zhang, he did not feel he had suffered any loss at all as so many people hadplimented him just now and Ye Xiaoxian alsopared him with that out-of-town merchant, so he felt that he had already nted the seed of love in Ye Xiaoxians heart and now would simply wait for it to bloom and bear fruit. Some diners were already done eating and all the them woulde over and thank Young Master Zhang. Young Master Zhang, thank you so much for paying for the food. Im so grateful! Young Master Zhang would wave his hands generously. No problem, no problem. However, once those diners went out of the restaurant they changed into another face. Is that Young Master Zhang a fool? Even if he is from a rich family he shouldnt spend money like this. Perhaps hes showing off in front of that chefdy. If I were that Young Master Zhangs pa, Id break his damn legs. Why should we mind him? Its good as long as we ate for free. I shouldve ordered more food just now. The following morning, Ye Xiaoxian got up early as usual. When she got up she saw Baofeng who was also ready to leave. Ever since they moved to town Ye Xiaoxian and others had sleptte at night, so Xiao Baofeng had no one to cook breakfast for him. Li Hongmei just always gave him several coins and asked him to buy some buns outside to make do. Sister-inw, good morning! Xiao Baofeng greeted Ye Xiaoxian and saluted her with the demeanor of a little schr. Ye Xiaoxian also smiled. Good morning, Baofeng, why did you get up so early? Its far away from here to school so I have to get up early to recite my textbooks when I arrive there. Xiao Baofeng exined. Ye Xiaoxian then said, Then off you go. Be safe on the way to school and dont forget to eat breakfast. You need to eat breakfast regrly to be tall. I see. Good-bye, Sister-inw, said Xiao Baofeng. After Xiao Baofeng left, Ye Xiaoxian didnt move but stood there and watched the back view of him. Although they have moved to town, Baofeng was still studying in Windward Hall which was a long way to go and he was on his own. Ye Xiaoxian was really worried about Xiao Baofeng encountering some dangers on the way. Even if there was no danger it was a waste of time walking all that way everyday. Ye Xiaoxian then considered that she would ask Schr Wong the next time she saw him to see if he knew of any private schools in town where Baofeng could be transferred. ...Schr Wong came at noon that day. He stepped in together with Young Master Zhang. Schr Wong was always low key and was quiet when he went inside, and Young Master Zhang happened to bump into him and swore rudely, Get out of my way! Schr Wong did not mind it and went straight upstairs, picking up a seat and sat down. Young Master Zhang was seated downstairs, right beneath Schr Wong so what they were talking about had gone straight to Schr Wongs ears. Young Master Zhang, are you sure you can finally have that little chefdy today? asked Fatty. Young Master Zhang was swaying a paper fan and said cockily, I spent three taels of silver the day before yesterday and another gold ingot yesterday, so if I still cant have her by today, do I look like a monk or what? So what are you going to say to herter? asked Fatty. Young Master Zhang shook his head. Have you forgotten my three moves? The first one is to show off my money, the second is to sound her out and the third move...hehe, getting to business already. Fatty then asked, Youve used the fist one but the second one...to sound her out? Young Master Zhang rolled his eyes at Fatty. Ive already done sounding her out. Do you remember I touched her little hand the other day and she didnt cry or anything, so you tell me what this means... Skinny and Fatty looked at each other and then they grinned in a naughty way. Young Master Zhang, you actually have already sounded her out but the way youve done it is different from what you do to other girls. You usually grope others backsides and hips or pull their hair, but howe you only touched the chefdys hand? Its way too subtle. What if she thought you touched it by ident? said Skinny. Fatty also said, Thats right. You were passing the silver to her and of course you would touch her, right? Young Master Zhang scolded, I know what Im doing. Ask that old wifey toe here. Old wifey was right now serving Schr Wong. In this era teachers and schrs were specially respected so Li Hongmei naturally went to serve Schr Wong first. Schr Wong had just finished ordering his food when Skinny and Fatty began to shout downstairs, Old wifey,e down here right away! Li Hongmei swore quietly, Those three sons of bitches! When she cursed, Schr Wong heard it so he had confirmed that the short, the fat and the skinny downstairs were aiming for Ye Xiaoxian. He was obliged to pay more attention to what was happening downstairs. After Li Hongmei went down, Young Master Zhang said to her, Old wifey, Miss Ye should be in the kitchen, is she? Id like to order my food there. You take me over. Li Hongmei said, Our chef said that the kitchen is staff only, so Im sorry, Young Master Zhang. Why dont you just order here and Ill deliver your order to the kitchen. Young Master Zhang asked, You deliver my order? Who the bloody hell are you? Ask the chefdy toe here and Ill order my food. Li Hongmei was about to go to the kitchen but Ye Xiaoxian had alreadye out. Little Five told her about Young Master Zhang and Ye Xiaoxian was afraid that Young Master Zhang would make things difficult for Li Hongmei so shed gone out first. Oh, chefdy...you look rather good today, said Young Master Zhang. Ye Xiaoxian was not in the mood for wasting her time on Young Master Zhang today, so she went to him and said coldly, What would you like you eat, Young Master Zhang? From the menu? Chapter 92 - Tears Of Love

Chapter 92: Tears Of Love

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio ...Seeing that Ye Xiaoxian was being cold towards him he was somewhat surprised, so he asked, What makes you unhappy today, miss? Young Master Zhang, youre here to eat food so you might as well just order your dishes and dont have to worry about the rest of my business, said Ye Xiaoxian. However, Young Master Zhang thought that Ye Xiaoxian was ying hard to get and trying to attract his attention by treating him coldly. He involuntarily chuckled. Miss, do you me me foring a bit toote? If so, Ille earlier tomorrow. By the way, can I go to the kitchen, Id like to have a word with you privately. Just say it here! Ye Xiaoxian was already sick of what Young Master Zhang had said so far. It is not...very convenient here. Young Master Zhang grinned. If its not convenient, maybe you dont have to say it at all. Im busy in the kitchen so I have to go back now. Excuse me. Ye Xiaoxian said. To someone like Young Master Zhang, since she had already ripped him off twice, that should be enough. If she ripped him off every time she saw him she would be a bit too dishonest and also, she did not have much energy to socialize with him. Young Master Zhang wanted to hook up with Ye Xiaoxian but he felt too self-conscious to say it directly as there were so many people eating there. He intended to keep it low key, since it was an affair after all. After Ye Xiaoxian went back to the kitchen, Young Master Zhang starteding up with ns. He had already done the first two moves and thest one was to let Ye Xiaoxian understand what he felt towards her. He pondered for a while, hurriedly asking Fatty to borrow a pen and a paper from the counter and then scribbled a sentence: I wonder how well I have impressed you, miss. From Young Master Zhang, respectfully. After hed finished he asked Li Hongmei toe over again and to pass this note to Ye Xiaoxian. Right after Li Hongmei went into the kitchen she said furiously, Young Master Zhang has really gone too far. Little Ye, you have to think of a strong move to make him have no more illusions about you and to nevere here to find you. Ye Xiaoxian unfolded the note and also considered how to reply. Li Hongmei asked again, By the way, have you cooked Schr Wongs dishes? He ordered a stir fried seasonal vegetables and a sweet and sour ribs. Is Schr Wong also here? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Yes, hes at the booth upstairs, said Li Hongmei. Ma, can you go and ask Schr Wong not to leave after he finishes eating as I have something to talk to him about, said Ye Xiaoxian. You want to talk to him? Is it something about Baofeng? asked Li Hongmei. Or anything else? Ye Xiaoxian smiled, feeling that Li Hongmei was a bit too sensitive. Li Hongmei also smiled. Ah, I didnt mean anything. Im just afraid that...that Baoshan will be jealous. Ye Xiaoxian smiled slightly, asking a pen and paper from the counter and, after another thought, she wrote down two poetic verses:- Before leaving the courtyard, thy forehead hath already reached the painting hall; A drop of lovesick tears fromst year hath not yet reached your chin for now. ...Li Hongmei took the note and gave it to Young Master Zhang and then went upstairs to find Schr Wong. Schr Wong was drinking tea peacefully as well as paying attention to Young Master Zhang beneath him. When Young Master Zhang unfolded the note, Schr Wong also saw the two verses and he could not helping smiling. Baofengs sister-inw was indeed a sophisticated person who actually quoted a poem to mock Young Master Zhang. Meanwhile, Schr Wong admired Ye Xiaoxian even more. At the moment, Li Hongmei also carried Schr Wongs dishes and came upstairs. While she was putting the dishes down in front of Schr Wong she spoke with a smile, Mr. Wong, Little Ye asked if you could not leave after you finish your food? She has something to talk with you about. Schr Wong felt ttered in surprise. Ye Xiaoxian was looking for him? Li Hongmei then smiled and exined. Its about Baofeng but I dont know the details. Maybe she wants to talk about Baofengs studies in school. Well, I dont know anything about study at all so its all thanks to my little Ye and also you, Mr. Wong. Dont mention it, Mrs. Xiao, Im just doing my job as a teacher, Schr Wong said modestly. Then enjoy your food, Mr. Wong and Ill tell little Ye toe overter. ...When Young Master Zhang downstairs unfolded the note he was not really sure about the meaning of the poem, but he could read alright. Seeing that there were some expressions like lovesick tears, courtyard and other words, he then turned to Skinny and Fatty. Say, does Miss Ye secretly miss me? Look at the lovesick and courtyard, which means that she has been always thinking about me in the courtyard. What do you say? Fatty did not even know how to read and Skinny could only read letters, but still they pretended that they were masters and nodded constantly. Thats right, that chefdy must be deeply in love with you. Young Master Zhangs tiny eyes started rolling up and down. So, it means Ive got a chance. I might as well ask Miss Ye out and then... Fatty said quickly, Young Master Zhang, which lodge would you like to go to? Tongfu Lodge or Yui Lodge? Feel free to choose any lodge in our town and Ill book a room for you in advance. Young Master Zhang actually started thinking about choosing a lodge. The floor of Tongfu Lodge is always being waxed and I nearly slippedst time, and thendy of Yui Lodge wears too much perfume and the odor makes me sneeze. Jui Lodge will be fine... Schr Wong upstairs heard Young Master Zhangs remarks and knitted his eyebrows. Ye Xiaoxian was smart though she thought too highly of Young Master Zhangs intelligence, so Schr Wong thought that he was obliged to go downstairs and enlighten them. He put down his chopsticks and went straight downstairs. When he reached Young Master Zhang, he bowed politely and said, Sir, Im also dining here and just heard the three of you were reciting poems. Im just a humble schr and would like to borrow your poem to have a little read, if I may? Young Master Zhang had just been about to find a schr to interpret the poem for him and since Schr Wong came downstairs he passed the note immediately to Schr Wong. Then hurry up and exin these sentences to me. What do they mean? Schr Wong pretended to read for a short while and then said, Right, I know these verses which came from an anecdote of the famous poet Su Shi and his young sister Su Xiaomei. The first line, Before leaving the courtyard, thy forehead hath already reached the painting hall, talks of a man who has a protruding forehead. As he hasnt reached the gate yet his forehead has already knocked on the door. As for the second line, A drop of lovesick tears fromst year hath not yet reached your chin by now, talks of a man whose face is asrge as a basin, hence why the tear he shedst year has not yet reached his chin. After hearing this, Young Master Zhang was in a daze for a moment and then was enraged. He stood up all of a sudden and gripped Schr Wongs cor. Is this true? Schr Wong said, Im a schr, why would I lie to you? If you dont believe me, you can ask any other schr and the exnation will be the same. Young Master Zhang loosened his grip, still furious, let Schr Wong go and then rebuked, Piss off! Schr Wong then returned to his booth. However, behind the counter, Xiao Baozhu had been watching Schr Wong from the very beginning and knew that he had done this on purpose. Chapter 93 - Did I Force You To Spend Money?

Chapter 93: Did I Force You To Spend Money?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Seeing him being such a consummate schr, Xiao Baozhus admiration towards Schr Wong increased even further. He was not only highly knowledgeable and skilled but also had such a strong sense of justice. Xiao Baozhu felt that she should tell Ye Xiaoxian about this so she went to the kitchen and told her everything about what had just happened. The impression that Schr Wong used to give to Ye Xiaoxian was of being nothing more than a learned gentleman, however, it turned out that Schr Wong was a man of great integrity, which made her sit up and take notice of him. She then said to Xiao Baozhu, Ill thank Schr Wongter. By the way, Baozhu, Im afraid that Young Master Zhang and the other two will still cause trouble for us. Ask Ma to stop him in case they do... She had not finished talking when Young Master Zhang had already rushed into the kitchen with Li Hongmei, Little Five and Little Six following him. Young Master Zhang looked ghostly pale with fury and shouted at Ye Xiaoxian. Miss Ye, what do you mean by that? Ive been treating you well but you make fun of me with such a poem? Are you treating me fairly? Ive been spending a whole load of silver on youtely! Ye Xiaoxian maintained herposure, pushed Xiao Baozhu behind her, straightened her back and answered Young Master Zhang. Young Master Zhang, Youve asked me two questions. Firstly, about the poem, you asked me what I felt about you so I told you the truth and this is what I really think. As for the second question, did you say youve spent money on me? Please realize that were opening a restaurant and, as were doing business, of course the diners need to spend money on their food. How have you spent your money entirely on me? The poem is what you really think of me? Young Master Zhang was almost on fire. Am I that ugly in your eyes? The poem is indeed exaggerating, as how could a man be born with such a big face? But Young Master Zhang, your face is indeed wide and your forehead is also protruding so I find the verses quite urate. What about the money I spent? Didnt you suggest that I spend it in that way? You also said you really admired a customer who paid for everyone in the restaurant, so that was why I acted on my impulse and did the same thing too. Ye Xiaoxian replied, Young Master Zhang, youve also confused the order of what happened. It was you who asked me about the signature dishes in our restaurant so I rmended some and you ordered them, and it was you again who asked me about what kind of customers I find more impressive so I told you. Later you insisted on paying for the entire restaurant. Did I force you to? But now, Young Master Zhang, you insist that youve spent all the money on me? Does it mean youre holding some improper desires for me? Young Master Zhang did not expect that Ye Xiaoxian would be so articte and shift all her responsibility onto him, however, he happened to only be good at scolding others but not at arguing. As Ye Xiaoxian threw such a sharp question to him, he could only said angrily, Well, well then do you not have a little bit affection towards me? I treat all my customers equally! said Ye Xiaoxian coldly. Young Master Zhang, if you are having some other ideas about me, please take them back immediately. Im a married woman so I wont have anything to do with you and I also do not wish to. I would never curry your favor just because you spent some money here. You, you, you, you... Young Master Zhang was lost for words but could only grit his teeth, his fury at Ye Xiaoxian rising to its pinnacle. He wanted to force Ye Xiaoxian to give in but there was a crowd in the kitchen. Apart from a few women, there was also Little Five and Little six, so Young Master Zhang could only say, Alright, wait and see. You dare to trick me so Ill teach you a lesson! Young Master Zhang rushed out of the restaurant in a rage. Others in the restaurant then felt relieved. Still, Li Hongmei felt rather uneasy as she was concerned about how Young Master Zhang woulde and take revenge, but then she noticed Li Hongmeis calm appearance and thought, Maybe Im worrying too much. Moreover, they had Xiao Baoshan at home and he could beat down four or five people, maybe even ten, at the same time. After Ye Xiaoxian cooked another dish she then went upstairs to find Schr Wong and Xiao Baozhu followed her close behind. Ye Xiaoxian felt it actually good to bring Xiao Baozhu along since with one more person around she would avoid arousing gossip about her meeting a single man alone. Schr Wong saw Ye Xiaoxian approaching and looked rather worried. Mrs. Xiao, I saw those people rushing into the kitchen. Are you alright? Schr Wong was thinking of going with them but just as he had reached the door of the kitchen those men had already rushed out furiously, so he had returned to his seat upstairs. Dont worry, it was just a bunch of people who were trying to cause trouble. Ive already thrown them out. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Schr Wong then felt relieved. Well thats good news. He then nced at Xiao Baozhu and saluted to her, and Xiao Baozhu saluted back nervously. Ye Xiaoxian said, Mr. Wong, would you mind Baozhu and I sitting down? Theres something I want to inquire about. Its about Baofeng. Sit down, please! Schr Wong asked them to take seats immediately and then tried to pour some tea for Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian quickly stopped him. Mr. Wong, I actually have a lot of work back in the kitchen so I wont trouble you for long as Id like to make it short. Baofeng now is still studying in Windward Hall but weve already moved into town and he has to walk a long way to get to school everyday, so Id like to ask you, Mr. Wong, if I want to transfer Baofeng to another school, how may I go about it? Are there any good private school in town and who should I turn to? Schr Wong paused in daze but then thought, This is actually as I might have been expected. Since Ye Xiaoxian opened the restaurant in town he had been paying attention to Xiao Baofeng. He knew that Xiao Baofeng now lived in town and that it was a couple of miles from the town to the school, and he also worried for Xiao Baofengs safety. Ye Xiaoxian saw Schr Wong pondering so she exined hurriedly, Mr. Wong, I do not mean that Windward Hall is not good. Im only concerned about Baofengs safety since hes only eight years old after all. Schr Wong also said quickly, Indeed, I understand! There are two private schools in town which are not bad and I have some friends there. So, just leave this matter to me and I guarantee that Ill let Baofeng be transferred to the school in town. Then thank you so much for all the trouble, Mr. Wong, and this meal is on the house, so dont bother to pay for itter. She then turned to Xiao Baozhu. Baozhu, remember that. Xiao Baozhu nodded quickly. Thats too much, really too much. Schr Wong waved his hands. Mr. Wong, if you dont ept this, I wont feelfortable asking you for help next time, besides, if we dont give anything back as a token of thanks, does it not mean that were ignorant of etiquette? So please ept it. Schr Wong could only smile slightly. Seeing that this matter had been settled Ye Xiaoxian then bid Schr Wong goodbye, saying that there was still a lot of work in the kitchen, so she had to leave now. Ye Xiaoxian left but not Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baozhu was staring at Schr Wong in a daze the entire time, trying to say something but she doesnt know what to say. Schr Wong then reminded her. Baozhu, have you been working as the ountant in your familys restaurant these days? He suggested that she should go down and get the customers bills. However, Xiao Baozhu did not get what he implied but only smiled. Yes, yes, Im managing and taking the bills. Baozhu, youre indeed versatile. Not only can you read but now you know how to calcte. Xiao Baozhu then started giggling. Xiao Baozhu was still not willing to leave until her ma shouted downstairs and asked her to take the bills. Chapter 94 - Letting Her Be My Concubine Chapter 94: Letting Her Be My Concubine After Schr Wong left the restaurant he went to a private school in town. The one which was closest to The Xiaos Cuisine was called Bamboo and Orchid School, which was counted as the best private school in Qinghe. The environment was wonderful with a lot of bamboo and orchids nted around the grounds, making the school very serene. There was a row of ssrooms in the school and different teachers were teaching various subjects in each ssroom. Students were allowed to learn different subjects, even including martial arts. The martial arts coach here taught students some basic kung fu to build up their bodies. Schr Wong went directly to see the principal of the school. The principal was also a lecturer in the town, responsible for educating and training local talents. He looked rather surprised to see Schr Wong. Yanbo, what brings you here? The principal warmly asked Schr Wong toe into the room. Schr Wong said, Im here to visit you, Sir. But I think you must havee here for a purpose. What on earth do you want? Just tell me straight, said the principal. Schr Wong then stopped beating around the bush and said directly, Actually, I have a student in the county and although Ive only been teaching him for several months he is very smart and, as he has moved into town recently, his family wants to transfer him to a school in town. I wonder if you could admit him here, sir? Several months? The principal stroked his beard and said, Whats his level now? He just finished reading Four Books but he had made quite some progress. Well... The principal hesitated, Im afraid hes not qualified here as I only take very outstanding students and he may not be able to keep up with the others. Yanbo, why dont you transfer him to Danxin School? Their standard is much lower. Schr Wong smiled. Danxin is bit too far from his home. This student of mine, though he is week at the basics, is really diligent and will surely improve himself to keep pace with the others. Please trust me. The principal hesitated for a long while before finally speaking up. As he is your student Ill do you a favor and let him in, but the tuition fees here are expensive also; six taels of silver per year. Is your student a vige boy? Can he afford it? He certainly can. If its convenient, Ill bring the boy and his family here tomorrow morning. After leaving the Bamboo and Orchid School, Schr Wong immediately went back to The Xiaos Cuisine and found Ye Xiaoxian. Ive already asked about the private school in town. Bamboo and Orchid School is willing to let Baofeng in. Its just that their tuition fee is much dearer at six taels of silver per year. Do you want to give it some more consideration? Schr Wong asked Ye Xiaoxian. No problem, six taels is fine, as long as he can learn stuff, said Ye Xiaoxian without hesitation. Schr Wong added, If youre certain that you wish to transfer Baofeng there, you can take him there to pay the tuition fee. Ill go with you tomorrow. Right, but can my ma go to pay the fee tomorrow? asked Ye Xiaoxian. However, Schr Wong had his own little selfish motives. He said, But I said to the school that Baofengs studies are in the care of his sister-inw and the principal also wants to meet you, so Im afraid you have to make it yourself. Um, fine. There wont be many customers in the morning so Ill bring Baofeng there personally. Schr Wong smiled and nodded. Schr Wong went back home after leaving The Xiaos Cuisine. He was teaching in the county though his family was actually in town, and his father was a country gentleman with a rather well-to-do family. Schr Wong stepped into the lounge and saw his pa, Lord Wong, whom he saluted. Lord Wong asked him, Why have youe home so early today? That shabby rural school of yours gave you a break? Schr Wong then replied, Pa, Im just about to discuss this with you. I decided to stop teaching in Windward Hall tomorrow and concentrate on preparing for the imperial examination. But if you dont go there that shabby school will be short of a teacher, wont it? There is already a new teacher arranged and hell be there in no time, said Schr Wong. Lord Wong continued, The exam is in the autumn of next year, so its still a year or so away. Why dont you get married first? As the saying goes, a man should marry first and then settle down. You havent got married yet so how can you settle down? Schr Wong suddenly felt headacheing on. The reason he went to the county to teach in the school there was to avoid being nagged by his family about marriage all day long. What he faced in the school was merely a group of children and while he was teaching them he could also do his own revision, but his father would talk his ear off when he stayed home. Pa, lets talk about itter after I finish my exam and get back from the capital city next autumn. I dont want the whole marriage thing distracting me. Lord Wong said, Why is it distracting? You should settle down once you have got married, besides, how many people can pass the autumn exam? Are you so sure that youll be chosen as Zhuang Yuan (the title conferred on the one whoes first in the highest imperial examination)? Youve a Xiucai (one who passes the imperial examination at the county level) already, and the best you can make is a Ju Ren (a sessful candidate in the imperial examinations at the provincial level). Even if you make it to be a Ju Ren, wont you alsoe back to inherit our family property? Were a rich family with great business and the money youll make from family business is no worse than the sry of a Ju Ren, furthermore, even if you be a major official, the risk is so great that once one of your superiors is not happy with you, youll be doomed. Pa, how many times I have told you, its not about the sry but my personal ambition, and I dont care about the risk either. Schr Wong felt his pa was such a philistine. Humph, when you reach my age, youll realise that ambition is just a whole lot of bullshit which is far more unstable than managing your family business. Pa, Im tired. Ill just go back home and read some books, said Schr Wong. You...you child, why do you never listen to my opinion? Ive already chosen several young maidens for you and as they havent married yet, youd better... However, Schr Wong could not be bothered to listen at all and went back to his room without hesitation. Just after Schr Wong had gone back to his room Ye Xiaoxians figure appeared in his mind. In Qinghe County, he could be counted as a rich young master and had seen many women in his life but he did not know why he could not erase Ye Xiaoxian from his mind. Her optimism, diligence, virtue and kindness had been carved into his mind. He was a schr, however, and knew that Ye Xiaoxian and he were not made for each other. On the one hand, they were not from the same ss and on the other hand, Ye Xiaoxian perhaps was also not willing to remarry with him. He sighed, feeling at a loss. He then thought again. What if Ye Xiaoxian also liked him and was willing to marry him? After all he heard Xiao Baozhu say that Ye Xiaoxians husband was not very good to her and they were spouses in name only. If Ye Xiaoxian was willing to remarry to him, was he willing to take her? Schr Wong found it all so difficult. Firstly his pa, Lord Wong, would prevent this from happening in all kinds of ways because Lord Wong was determined to find him a woman with a simr family background and social ss. Secondly, Ye Xiaoxian had to persuade her mother-inw to let her go. Although her mother-inw looked nice, she would not tend to let Ye Xiaoxian go if she wished to remarry to someone else. What was more, if he really married such amon girl who was also engaged in trade and, meanwhile, if he passed the imperial exam and became a Ju Ren, would his peers mock him? Maybe he would have to end up making her his concubine. Schr Wong thought it wouldnt be too bad to let her be his concubine, so long as he doted on her. Chapter 95 - Alone Together

Chapter 95: Alone Together

Trantor: Flying Lines Schr Wong had been pondering like this for a whole night. He was known toe back home for studying but he could not settle down or read a single word. Later on he somehow fell asleep unconsciously and after he woke up it was already broad daylight. He remembered that he had promised Ye Xiaoxian to go to the Bamboo and Orchid School with her, so hurriedly he got up and began to freshen up and get changed. Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baofeng had already got up early in the morning. Ye Xiaoxian had gone out the previous evening specially to inquiry about this Bamboo and Orchid School and found that it was actually a very prominent school. If they had not got in through the back door, Baofeng would not even have even been able to reach the schools gate. So Ye Xiaoxian quickly took some fresh cloth and asked Li Hongmei to make a new outfit for Baofeng, and she herselfbed and braided his hair in the morning, turning him into an adorable little school boy. While Ye Xiaoxian wasbing his hair, Li Hongmei, stood beside them, said to Xiao Baofeng, Baofeng, see how well little Ye treats you. When youre better off in the future dont forget to repay your sister-inw. Xiao Baofeng replied seriously, Ma, Ill remember that. As Ye Xiaoxianbed his hair her tender hands asionally pressed on his head. Apart from his mother, the only one who could offer him such a caring touch was his sister-inw. After his hair was done Schr Wong also came in. Both Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian asked him if he had had breakfast yet and asked him to eat some here if not. Schr Wong said that he had already eaten breakfast back home and it was time for them to leave for the school. Ye Xiaoxian then took Xiao Baofeng and got the money ready, and she was then ready to go. Xiao Baozhu also wanted to follow them but got stopped by Li Hongmei. Theyre going to school not the market, what are you following them for? Xiao Baozhu could only stand there in a daze and watch as Schr Wong disappeared around the street corner. Right now what she envied the most was Ye Xiaoxian. She also swore secretly to herself that she must grow up to be a capable woman like Ye Xiaoxian who was self-reliant on all sorts of asions, and then perhaps Schr Wong wouldy his eyes on her. Xiao Baofengs enrollment went rather smoothly. After they paid the tuition fee the principal arranged a teacher for Baofeng right away and let him take Baofeng away. Ye Xiaoxian then left the school together with Schr Wong. Ye Xiaoxian had also dolled herself up today, not for Schr Wong but for the sake of Baofengs pride. She was dressed up in a way which was currently popr among young women in town. She had powdered her face slightly and wore tinted lip balm which lit up herplexion and also made her lookpletely different from the one who worked in the kitchen. Schr Wong had been refraining himself from looking at her and could only dare to peek at her once or twice. Schr Wong, Im going back to the restaurant. What about you? Are you going straight home? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Let me...walk you back, said Schr Wong. Youre so kind but theres a crowded street and I wont bump into any trouble. But its still not certain, said Schr Wong. And I do not feelfortable allowing a woman to go back home alone. Well...okay then, if its convenient for you. Ye Xiaoxian no longer wished to stand on ceremony. She felt that an intellectual like Schr Wong must have his own principals for doing things so she would seem rude if she was too polite to him. The two of them were on their way back to the restaurant. It was only three li from the school to the restaurant. The street was serene and apart from some porters there were few people around. It was the first time that Schr Wong had been alone with Ye Xiaoxian and he was kind of nervous and not sure what to chat with her about. They ended up talking all about Baofeng, such as what material he would learn in the new school and about the rules there being strict, and so on. Ye Xiaoxian only listened and replied with the asional Mhmm, Oh or Thats nice. Before they knew it they had arrived at the restaurant. Schr Wong suddenly felt regret over sending Baofeng to the Bamboo and Orchid School. If he sent Baofeng to a farther school like Yangan, he would have been able to spend more quality time with Ye Xiaoxian. Mr. Wong, why dont you leave after having your lunch here? Youve done such a big favor for us and I dont know how to thank you for that, said Ye Xiaoxian. Schr Wong shook his head. Dont mention it, it was nothing and as long as... He suddenly fixed his eyes on Ye Xiaoxian in a daze. As long as? asked Ye Xiaoxian confused. Looking at the gaze of Schr Wong, Ye Xiaoxian sensed something odd as the look he gave seemed to be... Still, Schr Wong quickly adjusted his behavior and smiled. As long as you give me two more ribs next time I order sweet and sour ribs. Sure thing. Ill remember. Ye Xiaoxian also smiled. The two of them were about to bid each other good morning when Xiao Baozhu suddenly ran out and said to Ye Xiaoxian in a hurry, Sister-inw, something bad has happened. That, that Young Master Zhang is causing trouble in our restaurant! It was still early and they did not provide breakfast in The Xiaos Cuisine so there were no customers there yet. Young Master Zhang was with Fatty, Skinny and another three who were dressed like hooligans, sitting in the restaurant in a rather casual way. They know that there arent any customers at this time so thats why they came here to negotiate. Seeing that Ye Xiaoxian hade back Young Master Zhang swaggered in front of her and straightened up his back. Nasty slut, you dare to rip me off. You must return my money today or dont even think about opening up! Return your money? Since when do I owe you money? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Young Master Zhang stood in front of her and tried his best to stand straight but he was still shorter than Ye Xiaoxian and looked ridiculous. You dont owe me money? The first time I came to your restaurant you persuaded me to order loads of food and the second time I came you asked me to pay the bills for all the diners here. If thats not a rip-off, what is it? Ye Xiaoxian asked, Did I force you? You volunteered to do all of this. Volunteered? You dirty slut, if you didnt send me signals would I have volunteered myself? Anyway I give you my word today, either you return my money or go to Jui Lodge to make out with me, otherwise dont even think about doing any business today, or tomorrow! You... Ye Xiaoxian was also angry. This Young Master Zhang must havee here well-prepared or he would not have brought so many people. If she could not do what he told her to do then perhaps she really would not be able to open up the restaurant any more. Although Li Hongmei, Little Five, Little Six and Xian were all there and the number of people in both parties was roughly the same, they were no match for Young Master Zhang and his men if they were really going to fight. At this critical moment Ye Xiaoxian immediately thought about Xiao Baoshan. If Xiao Baoshan was here he would surely find a way to take care of them all. Li Hongmei also thought about her son and was about to ask Little Five to send a message to him but Young Master Zhangs men spotted this, so they blocked the door right away and forbade anyone to leave. Young Master Zhang also said to Ye Xiaoxian cockily, What? You want to ask your big-muscled husband toe? Ive already checked his background yesterday and hes merely a dock keeper. He couldnt help you much even if he dide back. If he dares to provoke me then Ill teach him a big fat lesson. Do you know who my pa is? Hoho, my pa is in charge of the government office. You dare provoke me and Ill ask my pa to close your restaurant down! Chapter 96 - My Pa Is Lord Wong

Chapter 96: My Pa Is Lord Wong

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian was about to continue arguing with Young Master Zhang when Schr Wong, standing behind her, spoke up. Under the heavens and also in broad daylight you actually dare to bully a woman so openly and unscrupulously, yet you call yourself a man? If your father is really in charge of the government he should know the responsibilities of governmental officials who should serve themon people instead of letting their sons bully others willingly. What the hell are you? asked Young Master Zhang. He also thought Schr Wong looked rather familiar. Schr Wong did not leave and, as he was worried about Ye Xiaoxian and others, he also followed them into the restaurant. While looking carefully at Schr Wong, Young Master Zhang suddenly recalled. He pped his thigh and said, Arent you, arent you that...that schr? Right, you two are actually together, youve teamed up with that slut to mock me. Young Master Zhang became more furious after recognizing Schr Wong. It turned out that he not only had thrown his money away but got fooled and mocked by them as well. You two shitheads must have hooked up with each other. Dont think you can fool me. Humph, after I take care of this damn woman Ill tell tales about you all over town. This woman cook hooked up with a schr! Ye Xiaoxian felt a rush of numbness in her scalp. What rotten luck was this, to have actually provoked Young Master Zhang, this nasty and ugly clinging vine! Young Master Zhang turned to Ye Xiaoxian again. Slut, there are still two choices for you, firstly, returning my money and secondly, going to the lodge with me. I choose neither of them. Please get out now! said Ye Xiaoxian coldly. Well then, dont me me for being hardcore! Young Master Zhangmanded Fatty and Skinny and said, Tie this woman up! Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu saw this and tried toe and protect Ye Xiaoxian but got blocked by Young Master Zhangs gang and two of them were holding off Little Five and Little Six. Xian was already extremely scared and stood there motionless in fear. Finally Schr Wong stepped in, trying to stop Fatty and Skinny. Damn schr, get lost! said Fatty. Schr Wong said coldly, Dream on! Skinny then said, Then Ill kick your ass too! Despite looking slow-witted, Skinny and Fatty were capable hands in a fight. He rushed to Schr Wong and beganying into him hard. Schr Wong was good at reading but a feeble fighter, so he took several punches to the face in no time. Xiao Baozhu was not happy to see this and her anger had suddenly been inmed. She was raised in a vige and vige girls were full of strength. Seeing Schr Wong being punched like this, Xiao Baozhu picked up a stool and smashed it into the man who was standing in her way. The man was caught off guard and knocked out by Xiao Baozhu with one blow, then she rushed to Fatty and Skinny to hit them. Little Five and Little Six, not to be outdone, also joined in. The fight had already broken out and if they did not join in the restaurant would not open up and they would get no payment. It was so hard to find jobs these days and it was rare to find such a good employer, so they might as well put up a brave fight for their employer. Young Master Zhang was stunned. He had not expected the situation to turn out like this. Those people in the restaurant actually did not buy his threat but dared to go against him. He was enraged and shouted, Punch them, beat them to death and Ill ept the consequences! Schr Wong could not even open his eyes while he was being hit. Through his blurred vision he saw a petite figure standing in front him carrying a stool. It took him quite a while to figure out that it was Xiao Baozhu. However, the first thought came to his mind was: Im doomed. Ye Xiaoxian must look down on me because Im a fully-grown adult but actually need a little girl to protect me from a fight. He tried to think straight and then said to Young Master Zhang, Ask them to stop right now. Do you know Lord Wong, the country gentleman in the west district? He is my pa! Young Master Zhang paused. This schr actually had a pa who was a country gentleman? And Lord Wong in particr? Qinghe was only a small town and though there was a government office, the head of it did not have much power, and in most cases the local country gentlemen had the final say. The country gentlemen did not really bother themselves with the affairs of the town but once they decided to join a discussion the head of the government office had to listen to them. Young Master Zhangs pa was only a constable but Schr Wongs pa was a country gentleman. He shouted in a hurry, Stop, stop it, stop hitting them already! The restaurant was already a mess with three broken tables, five broken stools and Xiao Baozhus bleeding nose from being punched. Little Five and Little Six had also been hit several times with poles and broken ss was scattered all over the floor. Everyone was gasping and stood facing each other in a stalemate. Young Master Zhang asked Schr Wong, Is your pa really Lord Wong? Im Wong Yanbo and youre free to inquire about it to see if Im telling the truth or not. Moreover, you hit me today and I will not let that go! Schr Wong then untied a jade pendant from himself and said to Little Five, Little brother, please go to Lord Wongs house in the west district and ask my pa to bring some more hands with him. Young Master Zhang copsed to the floor. An hourter Lord Wong arrived together with Young Master Zhangs pa and also the head of the government office. As soon as they had discovered what happened, Constable Zhang gave his son several ps to the face and asked others to hit him hard with a big rod. He scolded his son while hitting him. You damn ck sheep. Youve made me lose all face! Constable Zhang had not only taught his son a lesson butpensated Schr Wong with his medical fee and kept apologizing to Lord Wong without a pause, promising that he would discipline his son well from now on. Schr Wong also asked Young Master Zhang topensate the damage he had caused to Ye Xiaoxians restaurant, which came to five taels of silver in total, as well as to tidy up the restaurant and never bother Ye Xiaoxian again. Young Master Zhang was taken back by his pa and Schr Wong likewise by Lord Wong. Ye Xiaoxian and others went to the back yard to treat their wounds. Ye Xiaoxian did not in fact get hurt because Xiao Baozhu had stepped in front of her to fight them. Ye Xiaoxian was not sure if Xiao Baozhu did this for her or for Schr Wong but anyhow she looked rather nasty with her hair hanging down in a mess and sporting a bloody nose. When Ye Xiaoxian dressed her face wounds Xiao Baozhu then felt pain and soreness all over her body. Sister-inw, it hurts so much. Do it gently. Who asked you to join the fight. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. At that time I saw they hurt Mr. Wong so I did not think much but rushed to him because I was afraid...afraid that theyd hurt you next, said Xiao Baozhu. I didnt know you were such a fighter. Sister-inw, you have no idea. I used to fight a lot when I was little, mainly fighting over birds eggs with others. I didnt know that. I thought you were shy. Xiao Baozhu then added. Sister-inw, I didnt expect that Mr. Wongs pa would turn out to be a country gentleman. Hes so impressive. Even the head of the government office listened to him and kept apologizing to him just now. Mr. Wong and Qianqian are cousins so he muste from a fairly well-off family at least, said Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baozhu, however, felt a bit frustrated. Then their family must be upper-ss, so they wouldnt even consider an ordinary girl as their daughter-inw, would they? Chapter 97 - You Asked For It

Chapter 97: You Asked For It

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian hesitated and stopped what she was doing, asking Baozhu, Youve fallen in love with Mr. Wong? No, not like that, I just admire him. Hes a schr and will go to the capital to take the imperial exam in the future, so how could hey eyes on ordinary people like us? Xiao Baozhu lied. As long as you understand. However, Xiao Baozhu then asked Ye Xiaoxian again, Sister-inw, what about being his concubine? ... Ye Xiaoxian had now figured it out that Xiao Baozhu, though said she did not like Schr Wong, secretly adored him very much. It was no wonder that she was so eager about everything that Schr Wong had been involved in recently. What was more, Xiao Baozhu refused to be a cook in the kitchen and insisted on doing the ounts, perhaps as a result of her efforts in looking more well-to-do so that she could be a match for Schr Wong. Baozhu, mind you, when amon girl marries into a rich family as a concubine, she will usually suffer, as no one treats you equally and, whats worse, even a servant will bully you. If your husband cherishes you, that will be a rags-to-riches story but if he doesnt then you will end up being extremely pathetic. Youd better find someone who really cares about you and understands you and lead a quiet life, Ye Xiaoxian exined to her sincerely. Despite Ye Xiaoxian having told her a lot, Xiao Baozhu only heard one sentence, If your husband cherishes you, that will be a rags-to-riches story. What if Schr Wong cherished her? Therefore, Xiao Baozhu still decided to look on the bright side. At the same moment, Schr Wongs wound was being treated in the carriage. Schr Wong, Lord Wong and their butler were all riding together. Lord Wong did not say a single word the entire way home. Even though Schr Wong was hurt he was still furious with his son. As soon as they arrived home and got out of the carriage, Lord Wong then began to question his son. Why did you step forward for those people in that restaurant? Because of that female cook? Who on earth is she that you should risk your life for her? Schr Wong gently covered his chest. On the one hand it hurt there, and on the other hand he had toe up with an answer carefully. After some time he said, Father, that female chefs young brother is my student and also, shes cousin Qianqians friend. Qianqian asked me to take care of her. The reason I went there for food was also that Qianqian rmended their dishes to me. As for why I stepped forward for them, I couldnt bear to watch that Young Master Zhangs outrageous behavior. If it wasnt they who were being bullies today but others I would still havee forward and risked my life to help them. Ahem. Schr Wong coughed painfully who looked so gravely unwell and upset. Lord Wong finally believed what his son had said and felt sorry for him with his wound, so he urged the butler, Take him to his room to rest and ask a doctor to have a look at him. Xiao Baoshan heard the news at dusk that day and hurried back home. Luckily he had not sailed recently, as if he had he would not have found out what had happened back home. After he arrived back the restaurant had been tidied all up and it was open for business as usual. Apart from the fact that everyone was slightly wounded in the face it was just the same as normal. Xiao Baoshan first saw Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu in the hall and heard the whole story from them. After he asked them about their wounds and showed great concern for them he then went to the kitchen to find Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian was busy cooking food, so after seeing Xiao Baoshan she did not have time to greet him but simply nodded to him and then continued to mind her own business. She did not know why but after the matter of the giftst time Ye Xiaoxian had given up hope on Xiao Baoshan. She had realized long ago that it was necessary to have a man by her side in this era and, being a woman, her ultimate aim was to have a caring husband. Xiao Baoshan was a man of integrity so she used to have expectations of him. However, now she failed to see that Xiao Baoshan valued her at all so she had gradually given up on him. Particrly when Young Master Zhang came to cause trouble for them, she was deeply hoping that he would be here so he could step forward for her, however it turned out that the one who finally saved her from all this trouble was Schr Wong, bare-handed without knowing any kung fu. Therefore, when Ye Xiaoxian now saw Xiao Baoshan she could not help but feel rather sulky. What are youing back for? You dont care for me at all and only care about your ma and your sister, so why dont you juste to them and stay hell away from me! Ye Xiaoxian held the spat, stirred the dish in the wok, added water in, put the lid on and then blended the seasoning as well as put the food on the te, during which she did not look at Xiao Baoshan at all. Xiao Baoshan felt that he was being cold-shouldered, but standing behind Ye Xiaoxian he couldnt even say a single sentence to show his concern. At night-time, after the restaurant had been closed up, the whole family gathered around the table and had dinner. Because of what happened Ye Xiaoxian felt that everyone had been scared so she had specially saved more delicious dishes for everyone, so, naturally, Xiao Baoshan also joined them to eat. Everyone was tired and even the delicious food could not perk them up, and they all just wanted go back to their rooms to rest. There was only Li Hongmei talking with Xiao Baoshan from time to time. Ye Xiaoxian did not speak a single word and finished her dinner in no time. She then asked everyone to take their time and said that she was going back to rest. After dinner, Little Five, Little Six and Xian went to wash the dishes and Xiao Baozhu went to her room to read novels. There was only Li Hongmei and Xiao Baoshan chatting together in the lounge. Li Hongmei noticed Ye Xiaoxians indifferent towards Xiao Baoshan so she said to her son, Baoshan, you must go home more regrly in the future and might as well call on Little Ye more often. She used to like you so much but now she did not even bother to talk to you. Xiao Baoshan could only answer, I kind of feel it. Sigh, it is also probably because of what happened today. You didnt see that Young Master Zhang...he was so cocky and Little Ye was almost bullied by him. If it werent for Mr. Wong, who knows how terrible it would have been. It was the second time that Li Hongmei mentioned Mr. Wong in front of him. When Xiao Baoshan heard this name he somehow felt a bit uneasy. Ma, Id like to pay a visit to Mr. Wongs and thank him in person next time around when Im free, said Xiao Baoshan. No need, he is from a high-ss family and his pa is a country gentleman, so were far too shabby. They may not even let us in. By the way, also thanks to him, Baofeng has been transferred to Bamboo and Orchid School. Li Hongmei said. Xiao Baoshan felt more uneasy now. It seemed that during the time he was absent this Mr. Wong had helped their family out many times and did quite a few favours for little Ye. Could it be that Little Ye had... Li Hongmei saw that Xiao Baoshan was silent and she could not help but me him. Oh, look at you. You were only worried about your pride and too proud to sleep with Little Ye from the very beginning. You med yourself for having done something wrong but whats so bad about it? Little Ye had never really married your brother and you hadnt married anyone either but you just use others morality to restrain yourself. Then you start being asionally intimate with Little Ye and the other times you treat her as a stranger, so now she is indifferent to you which is what youve asked for. If you like her, just be frank and dont put on a mask and have others guess whats on your mind. Xiao Baoshan lowered his head. He also had deep regrets but he had never imagined that he would be lured by Little Ye little by little. The whole time he had been carrying the bangle which he bought for her and he thought about her every time he looked at it. Maybe he really had already fallen for her. Chapter 98 - Just Rounding Down The Figure

Chapter 98: Just Rounding Down The Figure

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan was thinking of confronting this Young Master Zhang and teaching him a good lesson. On second thought, Young Master Zhang had offended Lord Wong so he must also be having a hard time now as when he went back his pa he would be disciplining him well, so he tended not toe and cause any trouble for Ye Xiaoxian anymore. Xiao Baoshan then dispensed with the idea of going to find Young Master Zhang. The next day, in the afternoon, he went to the woods in front of the government office and met up with his previous handymen coworkers. After exchanging small talk, Xiao Baoshan then asked some of his close pals to drop by Ye Xiaoxians restaurant sometimes and take care of her business. The handymen all promised to do so. After Xiao Baoshan left, an attendant named Xun Wenda who was resting under another tree came over to ask them, Isnt that Xiao Baoshan? What is he doing for a living now? Baoshan is working as a dock keeper, said handyman A. What does he want from you guys, since hes already left to be a dock keeper? asked Xun Wenda. Handyman B said, Well, his wife has opened up a restaurant called The Xiaos Cuisine or something, which is somewhere on the front street. He said that someone was causing trouble there yesterday so Baoshan asked us to take care of their business sometime. Though being a handyman was only a part-time job one would wear the governmental uniform with a Service character sewn on the jacket, which could somewhat frighten themon people. So The Xiaos Cuisine is actually their business, said Xun Wenda stroking his chin. Xun Wenda had been there twice and was fond of their food but he did not get paid much as an attendant, so he could only go there twice a month at the most. He also particrly loved the sweet rose and sour plum soup there but they only allowed one per customer and he wanted to have one more but the old wifey there said that everyone was the same and the rule applied to all the diners. The most frustrating thing was that, as an attendant, he could eat on credit in other ces but The Xiaos Cuisine did not ept that and followed their rules strictly. Xun Wenda suddenly thought about Xiao Xiao Tieshushu and Xiao Xiao Tongshushu. Therefore, he went to the two brothers that afternoon. Brothers, isnt Xiao Baoshan your nephew? I heard that his household opened up a restaurant in town. Being his uncles, havent you gone there to eat yet? Xiao Tieshu said, Well, its kind ofplicated in our family. They are the second household and we dont see each other eye to eye. We dont really get along well in daily life so even though Ive heard that they are doing business in town weve never been there. Xun Wenda said, Are you stupid? In all my years Ive eaten in every restaurant in town but their dishes are the best. After I tried their foodst time I didnt even want to go anywhere else. Dont you want to go and try the food? However, Xiao Xiao Tongshushu said, Food is food, theres no difference between eating there or anywhere else. Besides, he is our nephew, so if we go there to eat meals should they charge us? If they do, thats a bit too indifferent between rtives but if they dont, they will suffer a loss, wont they? Xun Wenda smiled. I didnt ask you to go there every day. Just drop by sometime. How much of a loss will you cause for them? Tut-tut, I really miss their dishes. Im not exaggerating but in all the town, the city and even the capital city, their food must surly rank as number one. Im thinking of sponging a meal off you guys but who knows, you actually havent been there. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu looked at each other and were rather moved. They also had tried Ye Xiaoxians cooking before as when they still lived in town they would usually bring a little bowl of nice food over to Old Mr. Xiao. If Old Mr. Xiao found the food not to his taste then he would give it to the rest of them. ording to their memories her cooking was indeed delicious. Xiao Tieshu then asked, Well, is the food expensive in their restaurant? Xun Wenda answered surprised, Do you n on paying? Though you may not have good rtions with the second household youre their elders. Should an elder pay for their food? Xiao Tongshu said, Wenda is right. We dont go there that often so its okay for us to just have one free meal sometimes. They wont dare ask us to pay. Xun Wenda said, Thats right and you can also tell them youre here with a friend, so they must do you this favour, mustnt they? Besides, Dong treated us to a meal days ago and now its your turn, right? After further discussion they decided to go there for dinner. Elder brother? Third brother? Youre here to eat food? Li Hongmei saw Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu and felt rather surprised. She then thought that as they all worked in town they must bump into one another from time to time and, since they must have meals, theres no difference in eating elsewhere from having food at their ce. Apart from Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu there were also two other men in attendants uniforms. One was Xun Wenda and the other was called Dong. Li Hongmei brought one bowl of sweet and sour plum soup each for them and then began to take their orders. Just then Xun Wenda asked in a yful way, Mrs. Owner, now that your elder and third brother are here, wont you give us one more soup? Li Hongmei also smiled, We have a rule in our restaurant. As the soup is free we can only give our customers one each per person and the second bowl of soup is chargeable, but since elder and third brother are here I can give you one more. Xun Wenda finally got a free bowl and felt satisfied. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu also felt proud of themselves as if they had not been here the others would not have got the free soup. Li Hongmei thought that Xiao Tieshu only earned two taels a month and the food they ordered came to four hundred coins, which was one fifth of his sry. On second thought there were four of them, making it one hundred coins each when they split the bill, so it was fair enough. Li Hongmei went into the kitchen and told Ye Xiaoxian that the elder and third uncles were here and had ordered four or five dishes. Ye Xiaoxian then put down the spat. Elder and third uncles? Will they pay for their food? Im thinking this too. Almost as soon as they stepped in they asked me to give them one extra soup, so now Im wondering how much we should charge them when they get their bill. Shall we give them a discount or just let them eat for free? Ye Xiaoxian said, Of course we have to charge them. Were only a small business and well suffer a loss if we dont. As for the discount, the best we can do is to round the figure down but thats it, we cant go any further, otherwise they woulde here again and again. Were doing business and we cant afford that much of a loss. Li Hongmei asked, But arent we supposed to give them a gesture of goodwill as rtives? A gesture of goodwill should be reciprocal and we cant suffer a one-sided loss. Please just do as I said, said Ye Xiaoxian. Chapter 99 - Eating for free

Chapter 99: Eating for free

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were only able to taste some of Ye Xiaoxians cooking in the past but now they had finally got the chance toe to the restaurant and have as much as they wanted, so they could not restrain themselves from eating like hungry wolves. Xun Wenda also said, See, didnt I tell you guys that the food here is delicious? I cant believe that you never came before. What a waste. Another man called Dong also said, The food here is really good. Xiao Tieshu, Xiao Tongshu, this meal is on you then. Thanks. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu seldom went for food in a restaurant butst time they were treated by Dong so they had to return the favor this time. The prices of the food here was listed clearly. There was a row of bamboo cards with the price of each dish. They did the math and figured that it would cost more than five hundred coins for this meal. They then assumed that Li Hongmei would not charge them for this meal, so they could not only save this amount of money but also return Dongs favor. They did not finish eating until the sun had set. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were so full that they held their stomachs, which felt ready to burst, and prepared to leave. However, Li Hongmei came over and said, Elder and third brothers, have you enjoyed your meal? Its five hundred and thirty coins in total and Ill round it down to five hundred for you. Which of you is going to pay? After Li Hongmei finished talking Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu looked at each other. Xiao Tieshu said, Im treating everyone this time so the meal is on me. He was giving Li Hongmei a hint, implying that as it was on him she should just leave it. However, Li Hongmei said, Well then, elder brother, its five hundred coins in total. Please pay here. Xun Wenda could not help reminding Li Hongmei, Mrs. Owner, isnt he your brother-inw? Youre family and you actually charge him? Li Hongmei smiled. Its hard to do business these days so even among family we must settle the ounts clearly or well suffer a loss. Also, its not just one or two coins but five hundred. They donte here that often and its actually the first time theyvee. They are here to treat their friends to a meal yet you are asking them to pay for it. Arent you being too indifferent with your rtives? Why dont you just take it as theming to your house for a meal? Youre their inws and just cooked several dishes for them, so is it appropriate for you to charge them for food? Li Hongmeis mouth twitched as shed almost lost the argument to this guy, Xun Wenda, but it only took a moment for her toe back to her senses. If it was during new year or other festivals then of course you would be wee to have a meal at our home, but this is the restaurant and were doing business, so every diner needs to pay for their food. Elder and third brother, if youd like to drop in sometimes, just let us know and well wee you heartily. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu did not bring enough money as, normally, they would only twenty coins at most, so how could they find five hundred coins to pay Li Hongmei? What Li Hongmei said had really made them feel small and eager to find a hole to crawl into. In order to keep up appearances Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu could only discuss it with Li Hongmei. Fine, well certainly pay for the food but I have to pay on credit. What do you say if we pay for itter, maybe in a few days? Just give me as much as you have for now. You cant have none with you, can you? asked Li Hongmei. If they did not bring any money in the first ce then why would they havee for food? Was it that they did not n on pay from the beginning? Xiao Tongshu was terribly embarrassed and could only respond, Sister-inw, youre a bit too pushy with this. Its not like we wont pay for it. We said well pay in a few days. Its mainly because we forgot to bring our wallets, so could we pay you next time wee? Li Hongmei said, Fine, but you have to sign an IOU. Elder and third brothers, I know it doesnt sound nice but I have to make it clear that its okay for you to owe us some money, but we have a rule here, anyone who signs an IOU must pay their previous debt off as soon as they return and they have no chance of signing another IOU in the future. They actually did not have such a rule and Li Hongmei had just made it up. Seeing Li Hongmei finally soften up a little, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu did not wish to stay there anymore. After they signed the IOU they left the restaurant as quickly as they could. The moment they left, Li Hongmei immediately asked little Five to clean their table up. They had ordered quite a few dishes with some leftovers on the table, so they seemed to be really stuffed and would not return in the near future. She also doubted whether they would pay their debt. If they couldnt there was only her rotten luck to me. After Xiao Tieshu and the others left, Xun Wenda picked his big teeth while swearing, Xiao Tieshu, Xiao Tongshu, your rtionship with the second household really does seem quite bad. You not only had to sign an IOU but have to pay for it without a discount. They really made no gesture of goodwill towards you whatsoever, bah! Xun Wenda spat out a bit of meat that was stuck between his teeth. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu pulled gloomy faces and felt extremely upset. When they were in the restaurant just now Li Hongmei had urged and questioned them, giving them no way out and making them lose all their face. Dong even began to rub it in. Humph, there was no man in the second household a few years ago, right? It was you who supported them in the past but now theyve lived apart, being so cocky and arrogant. If I were you I would have beaten her up already. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshus anger was inmed even more. Xiao Tongshu then said, Exactly, before Baoshan came back they didnt have a singleborer to make money and they used to be supported by us. Now that they are a bit better-off with a restaurant opened up they even ask us to pay for our meal there. We all saw how sister-inw just behaved, as if theyve rather cut themselves off from the rest of the family. I really feel so unfairly treated and hard done by. Xiao Tieshu could not say a word from the anger, feeling that the whole second household were ungrateful pigs. Xun Wenda added. To those ungrateful people, I dont think you need to be nice to them. Didnt Xiao Baoshan ask those handymen to take care of their restaurant? You know what, why dont we secretly cause them some trouble and ask those handymen to leave them alone. Id rather that their restaurant is in trouble every single day. After Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu arrived home, except for Old Mr. Xiao the rest of the family were all waiting for them to have dinner. It was alreadyte autumn and the meal tended to get cold and had already been reheated twice. The two of them had already had dinner, besides they were not in the mood, so they asked the rest of the family to eat by themselves while they were merely sitting there sulking. Wong Mudan could tell that they were unhappy, so she asked, What happened to you? Is there anything wrong at work? There could be some major cases in the government office. Every time there was a crime and they were as yet to find the criminal they would look upset when they got home. The head of the government office was a hot-tempered lord and he would let out his anger on his attendants whenever he could not solve a case. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were not quick-witted or smooth-tongued, so not to the lords liking, and also their coworkers were much more cunning and would use the two brothers as scapegoats every time there was an incident, which resulted in the two brothers getting most of the critisism. Xiao Tongshu said in a grumpy tone, Its not to do with work but with the second household. The second household? What, about Li Hongmei and the others? asked Wong Mudan. Chapter 100 - Father-in-law Has Also Come Chapter 100: Father-inw Has Also Come Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Tongshu then told them the whole story. When he had finished, Wong Mudan began swearing in anger as well. The second household is going too far. Theyre really trying to cut themselves off from the rest of us. Humph, ungrateful pigs. At that time when Yinshu was gone we shouldve already lived apart, letting them all die of hunger! CJ also said, Thats right. Elder brother and Xiao Tongshushu went there with their coworkers and Li Hongmei asked them to pay and even sign an IOU. This is so embarrassing. They dont go there all the time and it was the very first time that they had been. Xiao Tongshu said, There were so many people watching us at the time, as if we were going to run off without paying. Wong Mudan then asked, But...are you going to pay them the money? Xiao Tieshu pped hisp hard. Pay them? Piss off. We might as well never go to their restaurant again. Humph, when theres a festival or during New Year they will go back to worship the ancestors and wed better not treat them nastily. Also, as for the row of earth houses, if they dont go back and live there we might as well change it into a pig pen. Xiao Tongshu said, They dont treat us as their rtives, so why should we treat them decently? Wong Mudans anger increased as she was listening to them talk, so she said, Its not enough, I cant let them off like that. I have to go talk to Pa. Old Mr. Xiao had already got himself ready for bed and was about to take off his clothes when Wong Mudan burst into his room. Old Mr. Xiao then scolded her angrily, Do you have no eyes? What time is it now? What the hell do you want! Wong Mudan then sobbed and used the second household in a pathetic way. Pa, you be the judge, the second household had made quite a few silvers in town. It costs five hundred coins per meal there. Today Xiao Tieshushu and Xiao Tongshushu brought two coworkers to eat there and they actually asked them to pay! Pa, it was the first time that Xiao Tieshushu and Xiao Tongshushu went there for a meal and they forced them to sign a IOU as they didnt bring enough money. What do you think? Do they treat us as a family? They obviously treat us as beggars! Old Mr. Xiao had already untied his pants just now but hurriedly tied them back on again. What? Five hundred coins per meal? It was almost the same amount as the filial piety fees which they gave him every month. Thats right, so now you know how much money their restaurant can make. Pa, I just want to know if the second household still remember that their family name is Xiao. They charged Xiao Tongshushu and Xiao Tieshushu for food but what about you? Pa, would they ask you to pay for the food and sign an IOU when you go there? Old Mr. Xiao red. I dare them! You can only figure it out after you go there to see with your own eyes. Pa,st time I suggested that you go there with them. They have now rented a house with a backyard in town and made so much money. Why dont you go there to enjoy life while youre still well. You just stay in our tiny vige day after day and when youre older and no longer able to walk properly you will regret that you had not gone there earlier. Old Mr. Xiao found what Wong Mudan said made sense. Maybe it was time for him to move to live in the town for a while. Old Mr. Xiao packed up some clothes the moment he got up the following day and was then led by Xiao Tongshushu and Xiao Tieshu to Ye Xiaoxians restaurant. Although it was still early all the members of The Xiaos Cuisine were already up. Ye Xiaoxian, Little Five and Little Six had all gone to the market to purchase fresh vegetables and XZ and Xian, together with Li Hongmei, were wiping and tidying up the restaurant. When Old Mr. Xiao arrived Li Hongmei was really taken aback. Pa, you...you are... Xiao Tieshushu said coldly, Pa has lived quite a long time in the vige and now wants to live in the town for a while. Take care of Pa during this time. After taking Old Mr. Xiao to the restaurant the two brother hurried back to work in case Li Hongmei mentioned the IOU again. Li Hongmei looked at Old Mr. Xiao who was looking around curiously and she could not help feeling upset. Isnt he living in the vige alright? Why does hee here without rhyme or reason? Pa, didnt you say you wouldnte? Why have you suddenlye to the town? Weve not even prepared anything! Old Mr. Xiao said in a grumpy tone, I just came here to stay for a few days. Do you need to prepare anything? Of course we do. The ce is only so big and we dont even have a room for you to live in. Dont we at least need to prepare a bed for you? asked Li Hongmei. Theres no room for me? Its such arge ce, how can I find nowhere to live? Old Mr. Xiao did not believe her. The restaurant had a second floor. When the tables and stools were folded together it looked empty, but as Xian and Baozhu gradually took them down it started to look packed already. Old Mr. Xiao then said, Then show me the backyard. Li Hongmei then went to the backyard with him. There were three rooms in the backyard. Li Hongmei said, These are all rented. Baozhu and I live in the same room, one for Little Ye and the new girl, Xian, and the other for Little five and Little Six. Who are Little five and Little Six? The newly-hired hands. Old Mr. Xiao felt unsatisfied again. How much work should you do? Do you really need to hire more hands? How much does this cost? One and a half each per month at least. Nonsense, cant you do more work and spare the rest for me? Old Mr. Xiao said with pity. Li Hongmei thought, What the hell do you, an old man, know? Pa, we were busy so I have no time to serve you. Just a take a rest in the room by yourself. Li Hongmei did not want to talk with Old Mr. Xiao any longer in case she might die of annoyance. Old Mr. Xiao still sneered. Tsk, as if you are really busy. The entire work of opening up a restaurant is only to cook some food and wash some dishes, and thats all, am I right? Li Hongmei returned to the hall with a long face. Xiao Baozhu saw this and also felt annoyed. She hated this grandpa the most as he was full of bias against their household. In the past, once Baocheng argued with Baofeng over something he woulde out to criticize Baofeng. As for her, so long as she did not work, her grandpa would scold her for being idle and she felt like she would die from working too much. Old Mr. Xiao went into the room to put down his cloth bundle. This room was originally just for Baofeng and Baoshan could also live in it when he came back. Later on when Little Five and Little Six arrived, Ye Xiaoxian asked the others to expand the bed nk which now could amodate five people. However, Old Mr. Xiao did not appreciate it at all as he had a spacious bed back in the vige and lived alone. His room was warm during winter and cool during summer, and he could sleep on his bed in any position he pleased, but now he had to crash with some kids. He went outside as soon as he had put down his bundle. He wanted to have a look at what the second household were busy with. After a short while Ye Xiaoxian and the other two boys went back with their purchases. Ye Xiaoxian carried a lot of things in her hands and Little Five and Little Six carried onerge basket of vegetables each on their shoulders. Seeing that Old Mr. Xiao hade, Ye Xiaoxian immediately thought, Heh, after the matter of the IOU yesterday the elder and third uncles must have told tales to Old Mr. Xiao or he wouldnt havee here so soon. She could not be bothered being hospitable to Old Mr. Xiao so just greeted him tersely and then she went with the other boys to the yard, putting everything down beside the well before beginning to wash and chop vegetables. Chapter 101 - Drink the Strongest Wine

Chapter 101: Drink the Strongest Wine

Trantor: Flying Lines Before long, Xian and others also came out and helped Ye Xiaoxian. They had got many hands though, there were also a lot of vegetables to handle, so of course they needed that many of hands to cover the work. No one gave heed to Old Mr. Xiao. Old Mr. Xiao was not bothered. Anyways he did not want to work, so it was ideal that they all paid no attention to him. After they washed the vegetables and got them chopped, the restaurant was opened up to wee the customers. Old Mr. Xiao knew that there were goodies in the restaurant, so he went to the middle of the restaurant and sat himself down, then asking Li Hongmei toe over. Hongmei, go and ask little Ye to wok roast some peanuts for me. Make them really crunchy and give me a pot of wine also. Li Hongmeis fury was surging up. This old man happened to choose the table in the very middle of the hall. He looked really untidy and nasty and who knew when thest time he ever showered. After he sat down, he started scratching and rubbing all over his body from time to time which looked very disgusting. Pa, you can have the wine and the peanuts as you please, but you have to go back to your room to have them. Why? Im your pa, the grandpa of Baoshan and Baofeng. Others can sit here but why cant I? asked Old Mr. Xiao. Others pay for their food. Have you? asked Li Hongmei. Do I have to pay for my food? Old Mr. Xiao started to be headstrong. We dont ask you to pay for them and never say you cant eat. I just ask you to eat back in your room. If do it, Ill ask little Ye to roast some peanuts for you, or you might as well sit here for nothing! said Li Hongmei determined. Old Mr. Xiao then scolded Li Hongmei, pointing at her. No wonder Tieshu and Tongshu said that ever since you came to town you have already abandoned your own rtives. It turns out to be true. Your paes here to eat, you even want to charge me for it and kick me to the back to eat. I wont go. I will sit here and eat. Lets see what are you going to do with me? You... Li Hongmei was infuriated. She then went to the kitchen toin about it to Ye Xiaoxian. So I wonder why Paes here all of a sudden which turns out that your two uncles told him that weve abandoned our own rtives. It really kills me. He just sits here and is not willing to leave. Little Ye, what should we do? Ye Xiaoxian then asked, Has he drank back home? Hows his intolerance of alcohol? Sometimes hed drink some maybe. Hes such a stingy man and how could he drink every single day? I dont know his tolerance of alcohol. He doesnt drink much after all. Ma, then give him the wine, that Tipsy Princess. Let him feel free to drink, as much as he wants, said Ye Xiaoxian. But... Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit reluctant at the beginning but after a while she had realized what Ye Xiaoxian meant to do. The Tipsy Princess was the strongest wine, much stronger than the famous fictional liquor which had intoxicated Wusong (Referring to the ssical Chinese literature Water Margins). Old Mr. Xiao had obviously been incited by the elder and third uncle to cause trouble here. He could not do it when he got drunk. In the dining hall, Li Hongmei took a te of roasted peanuts and a pot of wine. She was not only very polite to Old Mr. Xiao but also filled his cup with the wine for him. Pa, Ive just talked to little Ye. She said that its so rare for you toe by, we surely need to serve you well and make you happy. See, little Ye has roasted the peanuts for you and here is the best wine in our restaurant. One jar of this usually costs five hundred coins. Five hundred per jar? asked Old Mr. Xiao. Youve made a fortune out of this, havent you? How could this be true? We bought them from the wine factory. They sold us for four hundred and fifty coins per jar and we sell one jar for five hundred coins. You be the judge, Pa. Do we make a fortune? Old Mr. Xiao thought about it and it did not seem to be very profitable indeed. He had taken advantage of it but began to be worried about Ye Xiaoxian. So isnt this pot fifty coins? Little Ye have said that it is rare for you to drop by so dont worry about the cost. Just feel free to drink. While talking to him Li Hongmei refilled his cup. Old Mr. Xiao took a sip and his milky eyes suddenly shined. This, this is the best drink Ive ever had. Surely it is, or why does it cost five hundred per jar, right? Li Hongmei filled his cup again. Old Mr. Xiao drank the wine as if he drank water. He downed another cup right away. Li Hongmei refilled his cup while saying, Pa, though our restaurant looks as if it has made some profits like a table of dishes cost four or five hundred coins, but the ingredients are expensive too. Do you know how much does the pork cost these days? Also, the flour, rice and vegetables, they all cost a fortune, and about those hands in our restaurant, dont we have to pay for hiring them? And we also have to pay the rent of the house. Old Mr. Xiao gave it some thought and found it actually very true. Before he realized the whole pot was gone. Old Mr. Xiao felt all dizzy and unsteady, so Li Hongmei quickly asked Little Five and Six toe over, helping him to rest in the backyard. Li Hongmei thought, Humph, lets see how will you stand in my way of doing business now! Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu had specially changed their shift of patrolling with other colleagues, so they wereing to patrol the street where The Xiaos Cuisine was located. When they sent Old Mr. Xiao here in the morning they had told him what to do. They asked him to sit right in the middle, asking for a spot of nice wine and a te of tasty dish and sit here for a whole day. They knew that Li Hongmei would argue with Old Mr. Xiao and Old Mr. Xiao, as expected, must get angry. When a fight was started in the restaurant they would love to know how would they still do their business! However, when they passed the restaurant everything was normal as usual. Old Mr. Xiao was not sitting in the hall and no one was causing any trouble. How strange! Judging from Old Mr. Xiaos nature, could him hide in the back kitchen? If he was not in the back kitchen he must go somewhere to have fun. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu felt so disappointed to their pa. Old Mr. Xiao was such ame team member. Old Mr. Xiao did not wake up until dusk. When he woke up his head was still drowsy and his stomach felt sick. It took him a long while to realize that he had drunk too much today. He did not expect the wine to be so strong that his head still hurt. From tomorrow on he would never drink this wine. What the hell was that! The backyards was quiet and no one was around. All the people were busy in the front and Old Mr. Xiao could not fine a soul to pass him some water. He tries to get up himself, he felt rather dizzy. His throat was on fire. He wanted to call someone but nobody was around. After a long while, XS came back. Xiao Baofeng met Xiao Baozhu when he just came back. Xiao Baozhu had told him all the story of today, so Xiao Baofeng was not very enthusiastic about his grandpa either. He just greeted Old Mr. Xiao. Grandpa, youvee. Baofeng, Grandpa is dizzy. You...you fetch me a bowl of water for me, will you? asked Old Mr. Xiao. Sure, Grandpa, just a minute, said Xiao Baofeng. Xiao Baofeng then went to pour some water. After he gave the water to Old Mr. Xiao he was going to do his homework. As he was afraid that Old Mr. Xiao would bother him he then said to Old Mr. Xiao. Grandpa, Ill do my homework for now. Why dont you lie down and have a rest? Chapter 102 - I Fell Into The Toilet

Chapter 102: I Fell Into The Toilet

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Old Mr. Xiao finished his water and then wanted to go to the toilet, but Xiao Baofeng had already gone to the counter at the front hall to write his homework. It was noisy by the counter as all around were diners. Even if they were chatting noisily no one woulde to disturb Xiao Baofeng in particr. Xiao Baofeng might as well just not worry about them. Old Mr. Xiao was a little irritated. Still, he knew that it was dinner time, that everyone was busy and no one would serve him specially, so he went to the toilet by himself. However, he was old and still had a hangover and could barely even stand still. When he was about to get down to business his legs suddenly gave out and he fell straight into the toilet. He was surrounded by a foul stench and suddenly sobered up out of fear. He hurriedly crawled outside and shouted, Somebody help! I fell into the toilet! A diner happened to be looking for the toilet in the backyard. Seeing Old Mr. Xiao emerge smelling he went to the front to fetch help immediately. Li Hongmei came out and saw that it was actually Old Mr. Xiao. She felt both annoyed and amused, asking Little Five and Little Six toe over and pour water over him. They poured several buckets of water before they got ride of the smell on Old Mr. Xiao. Old Mr. Xiao stood in the middle of the yard shivering from head to toe. Li Hongmei then hurriedly asked Little Five and Little Six to help Old Mr. Xiao remove his clothes, to get him changed into clean ones and help him go to the restroom. Little Five and Little Six helped Old Mr. Xiao to the toilet. When they came out the twods could not help grumbling. Why is the old guy so troublesome? Everyones working themselves to death out front but he still made a scene? Thats right. Some customers were even scared away because of him. ... Old Mr. Xiao happened to have heard them all. Although he was pushy and domineering to his family, when he was now away from home, hearing the two youngds saying these things made him feel like useless loser. He was now rather homesick. At this hour he would normally have dinner back at home but here the others had not yet eaten, so who would care about him? He could only wait. He had no idea how much time had passed and after he crashed out and woke up again Baofeng came to ask him to have dinner. Baofeng, do you always have dinner thiste? Its busy in the restaurant! replied Xiao Baofeng. He did not want to chat much with this grandpa. Arent you hungry? Old Mr. Xiao was already famished. Ive got used to it, said Xiao Baofeng inly. Old Mr. Xiao was not used to this and his stomach was rumbling. Maybe he had been starved for too long so his stomach began to ache while having dinner. He turned out not to have much of an appetite, so he did not eat a lot. Meanwhile, the others at the table were all eating like hungry wolves. Just taking a look at them he could tell that they had been exhausted from their work and were ravenous. Old Mr. Xiao shook his head. It seemed that the others were not ignoring him deliberately but this was their daily life. ... At night, the backyard was not very quiet. So many dishes, woks,dles and bowls needed washing and food waste needed to be dealt with. Although Old Mr. Xiao would not do it, he could not fall asleep hearing the banging noises outside. He could barely close his eyeste at night. He had been sleeping all day and was not very sleepy at night. Moreover, the sound of Little Five and Little Six snoring was loud and continuous which greatly annoyed Old Mr. Xiao. Xiao Baofeng was alright. Although he was sleeping in the same room with Little Five and Little Six, he fell asleep the moment hey down. The childrens ability to sleep was superb after all, so no matter how noisy the room was, Xiao Baofeng slept soundly. Old Mr. Xiao felt like his ears were bursting. Finally he gave up struggling andy there with his eyes open the whole night like a silly log. When dawn broke everyone had to get up and get to work. There were banging noises again which drew Old Mr. Xiao from his bed out of worry that he would miss breakfast. However, as he had not slept well he did not enjoy his breakfast either. He just had some congee and was then off to his bed. Meanwhile, the schoolboy was going to school and the restaurant staff began tending to their business. The backyard finally became quiet. As soon as Old Mr. Xiaoy down he crashed and did not wake up until dusk. During the day, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were patrolling the restaurant and once again they did not see Old Mr. Xiao anywhere. They began to wonder. Old Mr. Xiao had been so quiet. Could it be that some ident had happened? Had they convinced him to behave? Or had Li Hongmei murdered him? No, Li Hongmei was too cowardly to murder anyone. Xiao Tieshu was so tempted to go inside and ask but was afraid that Li Hongmei may ask him for the money he owed her, so he did not go inside. Old Mr. Xiao had led a life of sleeping during the day and stayed awake at night for days. He had been wasting away since he came to town. He had not enjoyed any kind of delicious food in town and was not in the mood for wandering around. After struggling for a few days he finally decided to go back to the vige. Still, Li Hongmei shed crocodile tears. Pa, howe youre going home so soon? You see, were all busy every day and havent got time to apany you around town. Do you want to stay here for a few more days, so we can apany you when we are less busy? What Old Mr. Xiao wanted the most was to go back to his quiet vige. Life here in town was soplicated and he could not afford it. Li Hongmei said again, Pa, dont you like the Tipsy Princess? Shall I fill another bottle for you to take home? Old Mr. Xiao did not dare drink anymore as he wondered whether the reason he had been suffering recently was because of that Tipsy Princess. He decided to never drink again. Ye Xiaoxian then gave Old Mr. Xiao two jin of sundried meat to take with him and also asked Little Five to take him home. After they sent Old Mr. Xiao away Li Hongmei drew a deep breath of relief. She went to the kitchen to talk to Ye Xiaoxian. Little Ye, its actually thanks to your Tipsy Princess. If it werent for you being willing to give a bottle of that wine away, I dont know how much we would have had to suffer from Baoshans grandpa. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. You cant make an omelet without breaking some eggs. The old man was very simple and so easily tricked. It was an absolute breeze to deal with him. Li Hongmei then said, These days, I sometimes notice your two uncles passing by from time to time. I guess they wanted to see the result of this battle. If they knew what life their pa has had here theyd burst with anger. They are asking for it, arent they? said Ye Xiaoxian. ... Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu did not know what kind of life their pa had in the restaurant and they were panicking. They were thinking of rushing into the restaurant if they still did not see Old Mr. Xiao. They did not expect to see him that night. Both of them were rather surprised to find that Old Mr. Xiao had be skinny. Pa, has the second household mistreated you? Tell us the whole story. If its true, well go and get revenge for you. However, Old Mr. Xiao began to scold his two sons. Get what? This is all your fault. You tricked me into drinking what you called nice wine. Ive drunk that damn wine and it made me dizzy for a whole day. Whats more, I even fell into the toilet. You two cheeky things, Ive been living well in the vige and you had to trick me into going to the town, saying that you were sending me there to live a happier life, but...ah, but you made me suffer for quite a few days. You two and your wife, Wong,e here and Ill give you a good kicking! Chapter 103 - Baoshan Bargaining

Chapter 103: Baoshan Bargaining

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan sailed with a ship again. It was a grain merchant who came from the provincial capital. He had been sailing for three days and the offer he gave was five taels of silver. However, Third Xing got half as his share again. As Xiao Baoshan had been working at the dock for a while he had also been given an attendant called Seven, who was a sort of assistant to Xiao Baoshan at the dock. Seven hated to see Third Xing continue to rip Xiao Baoshan off, so he could not stand any more and had to remind Xiao Baoshan. Brother Baoshan, why should we put up with Third Xing? You are the one who has made this money by working hard. Even if you just give him one tael, thats more than enough. Xiao Baoshan just answered shortly, The guest is Third Xings so I should give him his share. Thats true but...he is somewhat robbing you. He doesnt go to sail with the ship but asks for half of the wage. He surely knows how hard life is aboard the ship. We dont even have hot food to eat unless our employer is willing to pull in to shore. Even if the employer does pull in to shore, we arent guaranteed hot food unless he agrees to buy us some, otherwise well just end up eating dry food in the ship. Besides, if we run into some pirates, our heads can be chopped off at any moment. Xiao Baoshan just patted Sevens shoulder. That wont happen when youre with me! ... Seven failed to reply. Xiao Baoshan was very capable but why should he put up with Third Xings bullying? Meanwhile, when Third Xing had taken the money from Xiao Baoshan he then took his men, including Skinny Monkey, to the town to wine and dine. The ce where they went happened to be The Xiaos Cuisine. Third Xing did not know that this restaurant rted to Xiao Baoshan. They just took it as a coincidence, but that day there were too many customers and no one came to the kitchen to take the dishes, so Ye Xiaoxian took them out on her own. Ye Xiaoxian put the dish down and was about to turn around when she heard these people talking loudly. I say, is Xiao Baoshan stupid or what? I asked him to give me half his wage and he just did what he was told? said Third Xing. When Ye Xiaoxian heard the words Xiao Baoshan she slowed her pace. Were they talking about her husband? She turned around and had another look, finding that these men looked rather familiar. After thinking about it she remembered. Werent these the men who stopped Xiao Baoshan in the county suburbst time and suggested he go to work as a dock keeper? Ye Xiaoxian walked casually over to the counter and listened to what they were talking about. Boss, youre gonna be rich. You just let Xiao Baoshan go sailing seven or eight times every month and you can make ten or so taels of silver out of it. You can buy a house and a ntation by then. You can also eat and drink as you please, said Skinny Monkey. Third Xingughed and said, This is exactly what Im thinking. ... Ye Xiaoxian did not continue to listen and went back to the kitchen silently. She always knew that Xiao Baoshan was a bit dimwitted, especially to the opposite sex. Or perhaps he was not that dim. Maybe he was just not into her. However, Ye Xiaoxian did not expect Xiao Baoshan to still be so dimwitted at the dock and allow others steal his wages away. Half of the money he made from his hard work sailing with ships had to shared with others. It seemed that they were all leading hard lives. ... In the following month Xiao Baoshan had in fact gone sailing more than ten times. The short trips were one or two days and the long trips were four or five days. Third Xing did not give Xiao Baoshan a single break. Seven was so furious that he almost quit. Seven was so speechless that he said to Xiao Baoshan, Brother Baoshan, although youre hired by Third Xing to be the dock keeper, the dock doesnt belong to him. As long as you want you can be your own master, so you dont have to bear that damn Third Xing anymore. Judging by whats going on now, you are obviously being used by Third Xing as an ox. Xiao Baoshan just said inly, Lets just do the job for now and talk about other thingster. Time flew by and it was already November. In Qinghe County, although was located in the subtropical region, the weather was getting colder and colder. Going sailing had be more and moreborious. They had to not only withstand exposure to the elements, deprivation and hunger but also endure the cold. Seven had been working with Xiao Baoshan for quite a long time but hismission was still barely enough. If it werent for Xiao Baoshan, who had rather a reassuring presence, Seven would have quit long ago. One day, Wen Lei, the businessman from Fu, came there again. Wen Lei appointed Xiao Baoshan to sail with him, so naturally Third Xing would send Xiao Baoshan over. The Fu shipping line was rather dangerous and Wen Lei could not manage it without Xiao Baoshan. After he arrived safe and sound at his destination thest time, he could not stop thinking about Xiao Baoshan. He could put his mind at ease and sleep and eat well on the ship with Xiao Baoshan around. Furthermore, he was always rather curious about Xiao Baoshan. Being a man of such great demeanor and presence, why should he lower himself to working as a dock keeper? However, to their surprise, Xiao Baoshan had refused this time. Third Xing found Xiao Baoshan who simply answered, I cant go this time. Why? asked Third Xing. Xiao Baoshan turned around and said inly, Im afraid I cant go sailing for quite some some. But...why not? Havent you been doing well all this time? Wen Lei has told me that hell offer seven taels this time, said Third Xing worriedly. You mean three and a half taels, right? asked Xiao Baoshan inly. Well... Third Xing suddenly realized something. He had heard a story called Boiling Frog. When a frog is in a pot, if you make it hot too quickly it will jump out, but if you slowly increase the temperature then it will not notice until its too hot to escape. Third Xing suddenly realized that perhaps he himself was that frog. Baoshan, lets get it straight. Is it because of the money? Well...how about you take four taels out of the seven and Ill get three? What do you say? Xiao Baoshan just smiled faintly and did not say a word. Baoshan, dont you forget that you were just a handyman working in the government office. You only earned two taels per month back then. But since you came here youve earned five taels of silver per month, all thanks to me. Shouldnt you repay me for what Ive given you? I know that maybe Ive got a bit more of the share before but we can discuss that, but now Wen Lei has apointed you to sail with him. If you wont go I have to send five or six of my men over. That meant that Xiao Baoshan was considered equal to six men. Yet Third Xing still had the nerve to take such arge share. Xiao Baoshan still smiled faintly. Third Xingpromised. What about this? Seven tales, you can have five and Ill have two. Thats final. Xiao Baoshan finally spoke up. Seven taels. Ill get six and youll get one and thats how we distribute the wage from now on. No matter what kind of offer you got for me you can at most take one tael. Third Xings mouth twitched. After a long while he clenched his fists. Fine, you better get aboard the ship now. ... The Xiaos Cuisine. Ye Xiaoxian went to the front hall and saw the three of them again. The difference was that Third Xing and the other men were not as happy asst time when they were binge eating and drinking, on the contrary, they looked somehow upset. Chapter 104 - He Bought An Accessory Just For Me? Chapter 104: He Bought An essory Just For Me? Trantor: Flying Lines Third Xing ordered the strongest wine, Tipsy Princess, downed tworge cups and then put his cup down loudly on the table. He then scolded, Damn Xiao Baoshan, I thought he was an honest thickhead but I actually got tricked by him! Skinny and the other dared not make a noise. Third Xing then continued, So I wonder why hes been going sailing like crazytely and agreed to work for any kind of client. It turns out that he was making a name for himself and now a lot of clients only want to hire him. It was us who got those clients before but now theyve all been won over by Xiao Baoshan. Skinny Monkey said timidly, I was reminding you before that maybe you shouldnt ask for such a big share. He couldnt be happy with fifty-fifty. If he wasnt happy why didnt he just say so? He said nothing whatsoever. Hes obviously yed a trick on me! Even if its ten-ny from now on we are still the winners. Xiao Baoshan himself equals to ten men. We wont suffer any loss. We might as well ask him go sailing more often, right? said Skinny Monkey. Third Xing gulped his wine again. Ye Xiaoxian went back to the kitchen and her lips could not help but curve. Xiao Baoshan...this thickhead? Humph, he was not thick. He was not thick at all when others were trying to trick him. But Ye Xiaoxian also stopped being worried about him, as long as he was not pushed around by others outside. ... Several dayster Xiao Baoshan returned from Fu, bringing back a lot of stuff. He was back at dawn before the restaurant opened up. Everyone was gathering and busy in the yard, washing vegetables and tidying up. Li Hongmei spotted her son and shouted in excitement. Oh, Baoshans back? She then said with a motherly pity, Baoshan, youve got thinner again? And darker? You almost look like a lump of coal. Xiao Baoshan did not answer this question, simply removing the things from his shoulder and putting them down, then saying to Li Hongmei, Ma, Ive bought something for everyone. Help me to hand them out! What are they? asked Li Hongmei. Xiao Baoshan had been getting more and more civilizedtely and even brought things back home after going sailing. Heres some cotton cloth from Fu. Its getting colder now. I saw that this cotton cloth is better quality than the stuff in our town, firm and thick, so I bought some for us to make some clothes. Little Five, Little Six and Xian, you all have some. Little Five, Little Six and Xian heard that they had also got some cotton cloth, they hurriedly put down their work, wiping their hands clean and rushed over. In this era it was a big deal for ordinary poor folk to make some new clothes. They usually had to be really resolute in buying cloth to make new clothes in the new year. Some even had to wait two or three years to get a new outfit. Xiao Baoshan had bought blue cloth for Little Five and Little Six which could be made into jackets and was sufficient for making a full-body outfit. The cloth he bought for Xian was dark red. Xiao Baozhu also joined them. Xiao Baoshan then took hers out. It was pink with flower patterns and the style was a bit better than Xians. Still, Xian did not mind. She was already so happy that she would have new clothes. Xiao Baozhu was very satisfied with hers. She saw some diners wearing clothes of simr styles. Only youngdies could afford to wear clothes made of such material. It seemed that she was one step closer to being ady. Xiao Baozhu decided that when her new clothes were done she would wear them every day, as Schr Wong may visit at any time. Ever since Schr Wong rescued themst time he had not been there for a long while. No one knew what he was busy with back at home. Xiao Baoshan then took out Li Hongmeis cloth. The one for Li Hongmei was dark red with a floral pattern. The only difference with Xians was that it had the flowers. Li Hongmei was middle-aged, so she did not care very much about her appearance. She was happy so long as she would get new clothes to wear. Baoshan, what about the one for Little Ye? She had taught Xiao Baoshan a lotst time. She hoped that he had not bought Little Ye the same style as Baozhus or even hers. If he had, Ye Xiaoxian would not even bother wearing them. Meanwhile, Ye Xiaoxian was washing vegetables. Although she heard that Xiao Baoshan had brought something home she was not looking forward to it at all. She thought: Isnt it just the same as what he got for everyone else? Whats so special about it? So, she did not even stop washing the vegetables. Until she heard Xiao Baoshan say, There are two for little Ye Xiaoxian. One is for her to wear in the kitchen and the other is for everyday wear. Xiao Baozhu saw them and shouted involuntarily, Brother, arent you unfair? Why are these ones for sister-inw so pretty? Xiao Baoshan really held two kinds of materials. One was gray, for her to wear in the kitchen perhaps, but the exterior was linen and the filler was cotton, so the clothes wouldnt look unttering on her. The quality was much better than those of Qinghe. Xiao Baozhu was so envious holding the cloth and said, Brother, why didnt you buy the same one for me? I like sister-inws. Xiao Baoshan looked at Ye Xiaoxian and then said to Xiao Baozhu, When you get married in the future, ask your husband to buy it for you. Ye Xiaoxians heart fluttered. What does Xiao Baoshan mean by this? Hes recognized her as his wife? Li Hongmeis eyes glittered. Baoshan has finally got his head on straight? Baoshan, so what you mean is that Little Ye is your wife, so you bought something special for her, but Baozhu is only your sister, so you wont buy the best one for her, right? Xiao Baoshan frowned slightly, feeling what Li Hongmei said was just painting legs on a snake. Needless. Ye Xiaoxian wiped her hands, walked in front of Xiao Baoshan and took the two pieces of cloth, then looked up to meet his gaze. She saw starlight in his eyes. He looked at her with eagerness in his eyes. Ye Xiaoxian lowered her head slightly and said, Thank you. Xiao Baoshan then simply took out the bangle from his clothes, giving it to her. And this. The cloths were bought for everyone, it was just that Ye Xiaoxian had a better quality one, but as for the bangle, that was specially for her. Xiao Baoshan thought to himself that the reason Ye Xiaoxian had been so distant with himtely was, on the one hand, because of the gift, and on the other hand, maybe she had lost faith in him. Especially when Schr Wong had showed up, Xiao Baoshan felt a sense of crisis. During the time he was going sailing he had missed her a lot. In fact, he had never been intimate with her apart from that night they were drugged by Li Hongmei. So, now he was thinking of confessing his affection for her. That was right. He was a thickhead before as he had not confirmed his feelings. Once he had confirmed that he would be determined. Seeing him give only her the bangle and that there was nothing more for the others, she found it rather unbelievable. She then asked Xiao Baoshan, Did you only buy an essory for me? Chapter 105 - Having hope on him again

Chapter 105: Having hope on him again

Trantor: Flying Lines Yes! said Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baozhu, standing beside Ye Xiaoxian, said, Sister-inw, is it that you dont want it? If you dont you might as well give it to me. I dont even have a bangle. Ye Xiaoxian took the bangle from Xiao Baoshan hurriedly and put it in her clothes. Ill keep this for now. Baoshan, do buy one for Baozhu and Ma. See, women are always like this. If everyone has one she thinks you dont take her seriously, but when she is the only who has it she feels sorry for others who dont have one. Xiao Baoshan did not understand this until now. Li Hongmei then said, Its fairlyte now, shall we hurry up and go to the tailors to have our sizes measured and let the tailor make our clothes for us? Otherwise we wont have time when we open upter. Ye Xiaoxian suddenly thought about Xiao Baoshan. All of us have new fabrics but what about you? ... Xiao Baoshan did not realize that he had not bought one for himself until now. Ye Xiaoxian could tell from his expression that he did not buy one for himself, so she could not help saying, Youre indeed a thickhead! ... The seven of them marched into the nearby tailors and got measured one by one. They then went back to the restaurant to deal with the rest of their work. Li Hongmei also hurried up and got herself measured. Seeing that Xiao Baozhu was also done she then dragged her daughter away, leaving Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan stay together alone. Inside the tailors were only the owner, Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan. Baoshan, you need to get a new outfit also, said Ye Xiaoxian. There are some materials here, why dont we ask the owner to get you measured up. The owner was a woman and looked rather coquettish. The moment Baoshan stepped inside her eyes shone and immediately wanted to measure Baoshan up, but did not expect that he was the only one without any cloth. As Ye Xiaoxian asked Baoshan to make a new outfit here she was so eager to just pick up the ruler and do him. Although he was anothers man it would not be too much if she just groped him! Ye Xiaoxian did not find getting measured a big deal originally and besides, Baoshan was a man, but when she saw the owners gaze she suddenly felt that Baoshan was going to be taken advantage of. She suddenly stepped forward blocking the tailor and chuckled. I almost forgot that we havent chosen the material. We might as well get the measurement done first and then choose the size, said the owner. Not really, wed better choose the material first. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. She then pulled Xiao Baoshan over. Baoshan, have a look, which of these do you like? Xiao Baoshan lowered his head seeing that Ye Xiaoxians hand was in his arm, looking ratherfortable. This one then. Xiao Baoshan pointed to a dark blue cotton fabric. Right, lets get this one then, Ye Xiaoxian then said to the tailor. Owner, were ready to get the measurement done. As Ye Xiaoxian was stood right beside Xiao Baoshan the owner felt it inappropriate to grope Xiao Baoshan, so she measured him up in a well-behaved manner and said, Right, juste over and fetch your clothes in seven days time. The owner still eximed silently: Such arge figure. What a shame that I can only look but am not allowed to touch. Thank you, owner. Ye Xiaoxian smiled and then they walked out of the tailors one by one. While walking in the street Ye Xiaoxian tried to break the ice, so she started chatting with Baoshan. Hows your job been recently? Is sailing in ships too much work? Its alright, not really. Ive made some money and Ill give it to you to look after, said Xiao Baoshan. Just...just give it to Ma, said Ye Xiaoxian. Id better give it to you. Its better for the same person do the ounts in our family. He then asked Ye Xiaoxian, Hows business at the restaurant? Has anyone been causing any trouble again? Grandpa dropped by oncetely but didnt stay long. Maybe hes not used to life here. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Grandpa is getting old and behaves like a child. Dont be serious with him but you dont need to pamper him either, said Xiao Baoshan. Yes, I know, Ye Xiaoxian replied. She did not know why but had been feeling that Xiao Baoshan was very warm towards her this time after returning, far more than ever. The tailors was not far away so they arrived before long. Ye Xiaoxian then asked Xiao Baoshan, How long are you going to stay this time? Two or three days maybe. I cant do much even though Im back. I cant really give you a hand, said Xiao Baoshan. Youve been overworked while sailing, without enough food to eat or proper room to live in, and its so dangerous. Just get more rest now you are back. Ye Xiaoxian said. Xiao Baoshan nced at Ye Xiaoxians wrist and found that she had not worn the bangle, so he reminded her. Little Ye, that bangle... Oh, I really like the bangle. Ill put it on now. Ye Xiaoxian quickly fished out the bangle from her pocket. Despite looking big, the bangle kept getting stuck around the palm. Ye Xiaoxian could not get it on properly. She was about say that she would get some soap from the yard to lubricated it when Xiao Baoshan suddenly held her hands, not knowing what kind of method he used, he just gave the bangle a little push and it slid onto her wrist. Her wrist just felt a tiny bit sore. How did you do that? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan smiled shortly. I just used a bit of strength. Did I hurt you? No, not at all, said Ye Xiaoxian. She found that Xiao Baoshan was still holding her wrist. His hands were really rough with all kinds of calluses but the roughness somehow reassured her. She was not sure if she should take her hands back. Looking up again she saw that he was also staring at her hands. Seeing this, she withdrew her hand as fast lightening and said shyly, Look at me, my hands are already as coarse as bark. She had been washing food ingredients and cooking dishes all day long, how could her hands not be coarse? Your hands are nimble, said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian was thinking: He means that I cook good food. ... The restaurant had already opened up but it was still early and there were not many customers. Ye Xiaoxian then prepared all the ingredients for her dishes, such as ground garlic and ginger, then got the broth done and made the desserts which they were going to give out for free that day. While she was cooking, the bangle Xiao Baoshan gave was dangling back and forth on her wrist. If it were one she bought herself she perhaps would not wear it any longer. As a chef, any essory on her hands was a burden to her. But this was a gift from Xiao Baoshan and she somehow felt as if she had seen Xiao Baoshan when she looked at the bangle. Ye Xiaoxian then thought that maybe she should also put on the hairpin he gave her. What was Xiao Baoshan busy with in the backyard? There were just three rooms in the back and now they had Little Five and Little Six, so he had to crash with them. She wondered if he would feelfortable. Huh, howe Ive started to worry about his living conditions? Hadnt I lost all hope in him already? Why is my hope rekindled just because he gave me a bangle with two pieces of cloth? Is it in fact only because hes hot? Chapter 106 - Confession of Love

Chapter 106: Confession of Love

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio While Little Ye was thinking, Xiao Baoshans handsome face suddenly appeared in front of her. He was tanned from all the sailing, making him look more manly. Why are you...here? asked Little Ye. I came to see if theres anything I can help with. Xiao Baoshan said. He was just idling around in the backyard and did not feel like going out. Xiao Baoshan then turned to Xian who was tending to the fire. Xian, why dont you go and help Little Six to wash the dishes? I can offer some help here. Xian seemed to understand something and then ran out immediately. Little Ye had already found that Xiao Baoshan was acting rather strange sinceing back this time. He had not only given her a present specially but had actually made a move this time. Could it be that Xiao Baoshan had suddenly fallen for her? Although Little Ye had long been trying to make a pass at Xiao Baoshan, she had implied it to him many times yet he did not respond at all, but suddenly he had stepped up instead, it somehow made Little Ye lose her bearings. When Xian was here, normally she would let her do the chores but for now she was not even sure if she should give him orders. Besides, the kitchen usually looked pretty spacious but howe it looked so narrow now? Baoshan, its rare that youe home. Why didnt you rest a bit more in the room? asked Little Ye. Xiao Baoshan said, Being here is more or less a rest too. In fact, with the two others, Little five and Little Six, sleeping together in that room, he felt it smelled a bit more in there so he did not really want to stay inside. Little Ye then just let him do what he liked. As for Xiao Baoshan, he was tending to the fire while thinking about how he should make her feel his passion? He had left home when he was little and then stayed at the battlefield for many years. He had hardly talked to any women. Still, he had heard a lot about women from hisrades-in-arms. Soldiers talked about women all the time as if this added some spice to their boring and dangerous lives. As he had listened quite a lot he had picked up a few things but not much. Until he found himself having some thoughts about Little Ye, especially after being ignored by herst time and hearing that a schr sorted her problem out for her, he felt that he missed her more and more. When he went sailing to Fu, the businessman, Wen Lei, had found him and chatted away with him again. When they got onto the topic of women in their family, Wen Lei asked him how his wife was doing and he then exined his situation. It turned out that Wen Lei had given him quite a few suggestions. Wen Lei was a rich merchant who had a few wives back at home and they all had different personalities. For someone like Little Ye, Wen Lei suggested that Xiao Baoshan should make the first move, otherwise, judging by Little Yes personality, she would divorce her husband sooner orter. It had made Xiao Baoshan begin to feel impatient. When they reached Fu, Wen Lei suggested again that Xiao Baoshan bring some fabrics back and also taught him how to give it to her. Xiao Baoshan found his method quite excellent and decided to be steadfast to the end. Little Ye had finished grinding some garlic and was looking for a bowl to put it in. Xian was usually supposed to do this job but the one who was sitting there at present was Xiao Baoshan, so she did not feel right to order him around and decided to do it herself. However, Xiao Baoshan was keeping an eye her all this time, knowing that she was looking for a bowl, so he was also went to pass a bowl to her. The two of them put their hands on one bowl at the same time. Seeing that they were going to take it at the same time, they simultaneously loosened their grip also. The bowl was wonky and fell to the ground but it did not shatter. The both of them went to pick it up but once they squatted down they almost head butted each other. They both felt rather embarrassed and the atmosphere was very subtle. Little Ye was going to give up on this bowl and reached out for another one, but at that moment Xiao Baoshan suddenly grabbed her hands. Little Ye paused in a daze, feeling as if there were a shooting electric current brushing over her body. Xiao Baoshan...what is he doing? Although Little Ye was from the modern era she had never been in a rtionship, so facing a girl-meets-boy situation she also did not know how to behave properly. Little Ye... Xiao Baoshan said her name. She replied, Yes? I... Little Ye looked at him, not knowing what he was going to say. But no matter what he was going to say she knew, judging from his behaviour, that he was going to make a move and court her, surely? Little Ye was still waiting for him to speak up but at that very inopportune moment Li Hongmei suddenly entered. Little Ye, there are customers ordering... Li Hongmei was here to deliver the order but saw that Little Ye and Xiao Baoshan were squatting down on the floor and that Xiao Baoshan was holding Little Yes hands. Just from a nce she could tell that there was something going on between them. Or, shall I...ask the customers to wait for a second? asked Li Hongmei tentatively. Ma, no need! Were doing business and customers are gods. How could we make our customers wait? Little Ye said to Xiao Baoshan, Baoshan, Ill just cook dishes first. Shall we talkter after works done? Xiao Baoshan could only nod. Sure, Ill look after the fire for you. After that, everything was going smoothly. Little Ye had stopped being afraid of ordering Xiao Baoshan around. She just gave him orders as she did to Xian. Xiao Baoshan was of course more capable than Xian and he had lived with Little Ye in the old home for a while, bing familiar with Little Yes lifestyle, so he actually knew what Little Ye wanted better than Xian did. Little Ye, though she looked very busy, was still wondering what Xiao Baoshan had tried to speak to her about. Although she had been quite disappointed in him before, she saw hope again as he made the move to reconcile. She liked him very much after all. One would not always bump into such a rugged guy in ancient times or even in the modern era. What was more important was that he did not believe the ancient dogma that women were inferior to men at all. He genuinely respected her and treated every human being equally. The only thing was that Xiao Baoshan was only giving her a hand that day as she had to cook with more customersing to dine. She did not have time to talk to him at all, so the matter had been dyed until the evening. Still, they seldom had a moment alone. Little Ye was sleeping in the same room as Xian now and after having dinner and washing up she simply went back to her room. Also, after Xiao Baofeng came back, he was pestering Xiao Baoshan with some academic questions and the matter had been dyed further untilte that night. Little Ye thought about Xiao Baoshan holding her hands during the day and she could not sleep, so she decided to take a walk. She did not expect to see thatrge figure standing at the door the moment she opened it. He had obviously been waiting for her for some time. Xian had already crashed, so Little Ye dared not make much noise and closed the door quietly, walking towards Xiao Baoshan and whispering, Baoshan! Xiao Baoshan turned around. He had hung antern on a tree in the yard. Against the light of thentern it seemed as if there was starlight in his eyes. Little Ye. He said her name also quietly. Are you waiting for me? she asked. He nodded and then said, Yes. Little Ye felt amused. He did not even tell her that he would be waiting here. What if she had note out of her room? Would he have been waiting all night in vain? Or was he so sure that she woulde out tonight? What do you want to say to me then? Little Ye asked. I want to say that Im sorry, said Xiao Baoshan. Oh? Why? Xiao Baoshan lowered his head. After a while he reached out his hands and held hers. He was holding her hands gently and gradually gripped them more firmly, expressing theplications in his mind. Chapter 107 - Being Slow in Love

Chapter 107: Being Slow in Love

Trantor: Flying Lines Little Yes hands almost felt sore and he then started talking. Little Ye, Ive been treating you poorlytely. You must feel very wronged, dont you? Its...its alright. Little Ye was also very tense. She was not used to the current Xiao Baoshan. I used to think that as long as I dont touch you but take responsibility for you my whole life, Id make a good husband, but now I find that it isnt so. The only way that Ill make a good husband is by treating you as my real wife. Little Yes heart started beating like crazy and she also blushed. His real wife? What was he going to do? Was he going to do it with her on the spot? But there was not even a vacant room in this yard. After Xiao Baoshan finished talking he actually put his arms around her. Little Ye was totally in shock. Why did he suddenly take her in his arms? And this tightly? Well, she would hug back then. She just put her hands on his back and he began to hug her even tighter which almost suffocated her. Little Ye was already in shock but now it became greater. After a long while Xiao Baoshan loosened up and said, Little Ye, Ill treat you really well my whole life! Mhmm. She did not know what to say. It was not really romantic this night and the atmosphere was not quite right also. Firstly, there was no moonlight with only some dimly litnterns. Secondly, they had snuck out and others were all sleeping. Little Five and Little Six were snoring really loudly and Li Hongmei also coughed now and then which made Little Ye rather tense. After a long long time she was still regretting what happened that night. She felt that if circumstances were different and they had been in the suburb when Xiao Baoshan said all these words with his arms around her, with fireworks and candles, then maybe she would be so moved that could not wait to give herself to him. Although Xiao Baoshan had confessed his love to her and apologized, what would they do the next? In this atmosphere they would not even feel at ease kissing each other. Besides, even if they did kiss, what would be next? Which room should they go to? As they could not do anything they just looked at each other for a long while until Little Ye yawned and Xiao Baoshan let her go back to her room to sleep. When Little Ye went back to her room she could not sleep again. She was tossing and turning on the bed, thinking that maybe she could ask Xian to sleep in Li Hongmeis room. No, everyone would know what she and Xiao Baoshan did at night. Or they could go to a lodge? It would be a wasting a money and many diners knew her. She would be going to a hotel with her husband alright, but what if others thought that she was having an affair? She was thinking and thinking but came up with no solution and then gradually drifted off to sleep. Little Ye, having had Baoshan confess his love for her, was not in a particrly good mood. She did not feel that life was special or anything but everything remained the same. She mainly felt that she had already be used to living with Xiao Baoshan in the same family, besides, he could not do anything after confessing his love to her, so would the life not still be the same? On that day he was looking after the fire for her as usual but she was not very passionate and still just did her usual job. Xiao Baoshan was disappointed but could not do anything so he also just did his usual job. Little Ye was also disappointed. She thought that she would be very excited like a woman in love being all affectionate and everything after Xiao Baoshan confessed to her, but in fact she was not. Am I too calm? Or have my feelings already died because Ive been resurrected? Anotherte night. Little Ye had lied down on her bed as usual when Xian said that she heard rats outside the door. She suddenly sat up from the bed, thinking that it was Xiao Baoshan who was outside. Xian, you sleep first. Ill go out to check and also tidy up the yard, said Little Ye. Do you need a hand? Xian yawned. Its alright. Off you go to bed. Xian had long been sleepy and crashed as soon as shey down. Little Ye pushed open the door and, as expected, Xiao Baoshan was standing outside again. Little Ye was a bit upset, thinking how thick this man was. It waste at night and so cold yet she had to sneak out to date him with her nerves straining. She was not happy in the slightest. He did not even know to change location! However, she just finished thinking when Xiao Baoshan suddenly turned around and hugged her, with a bit strength added and her body suddenly flew up into the air and before she realized she was already standing stably on top of the roof. Lightness kung fu! Little Ye finally felt a trace of excitement. Xiao Baoshan did not let her go but put his hand around his waist, saying, Shall we have a chat here? Little Ye somehow just listened to him obediently. Xiao Baoshan had obviouslye here in preparation as he had another coat with him and put it on Little Ye in case she caught a cold. After he wrapped her up warmly he put his arm around her, making her lean into him. The other night Little Ye was not feeling much but now, with starlight above them, tranquility surrounding them, the night as cool as water and no worry of being disturbed by anyone, before Li Hongmei realized it her heart began to beat faster. Little Ye, is it tiring to open up a restaurant? asked Xiao Baoshan. Its alright, I can manage. The important thing is that we are making money. Im happy as long as there is money. How can you cook so many dishes? asked Xiao Baoshan again. I juste up with them randomly. Youre amazing. The dishes youe up with randomly are so tasty. Little Ye and Xiao Baoshan then chatted away on the rooftop. She then had learned something new about Xiao Baoshan. It turned out that he was so talkative after getting more familiar. It was true that the other name for being in a rtionship was talking crap. Men and women who were in love just talked crap all the time. It was no wonder that in the modern era there were many rich people who imed that they had no time for being in rtionships. Surely they would need a lot of energy for talking so much crap, wouldnt they? Those rich people just found someone who suited them, who were useful but not somebody with whom they could chat happily. Anyway, what they chatted about was already crap so what was the difference of talking different crap? Little Ye felt rather sleepy from all the chatting and she stayed there in Xiao Baoshans arms, so she leaned into him and then had no idea what Xiao Baoshan talked about afterwards. She did not even remember when she came down from the roof. In short, when she woke up she found herself in her bed and the day was also bright. Xiao Baoshan was going back to the dock that day so he bid Little Ye goodbye after helping her buy vegetables. Little Ye, Im going back to the dock. If I dont have to go sailing Ille home and see you. Right, said Little Ye. Not knowing why, when she heard that Xiao Baoshan was going back to the dock she felt relieved instead of being upset. He had been too passionate during this time which made her a little ufortable. After he left she could work with Xian again. She did not have to check on him while cooking and did not have to deal with his dates at night. She had already be used to his absence anyhow. However, Little Ye did not expect that after Xiao Baoshan left she would begin to feel that there was something missing from her life, which made her feel empty. What is it? Being slow in love? Chapter 108 - Little Ye Gets Arrested

Chapter 108: Little Ye Gets Arrested

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio When Xiao Baoshan had just left, some officers suddenly showed up in their restaurant saying that they were here to take the boss of the restaurant to see the county magistrate, which was a sudden shock for both Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei. Ye Xiaoxian remembered that the constable who was in charge was Young Master Zhangs pa. Could it be that they had been biding their time to take revenge? It was not only Constable Zhang who was there but Xun Wenda had also been presented. Ye Xiaoxian questioned Constable Zhang. Ive been doing business openly and righteously and all my dishes are hygienic. Is there a single person who ever says that my dishes are not delicious? Youe here to arrest me just like that? Who has given you the right to do this in broad daylight? I wonder if there is anyw which against this? Constable Zhang folded his arms, as if it had nothing to do with him. Mrs. Xiao, you really treat us unjustly. Youve been running your business openly and righteously and were here to arrest you also openly and righteously. We have proof also. I heard that you havent paid taxes yet which is why wevee here to arrest you!Read more new novels on Nonsense, weve paid taxes every month and Ive also have the receipts from the government office. Ye Xiaoxian knew that in this era the spirit was stressing agriculture and restrainingmerce and the taxes were very heavy. ording to social status, the ranking order was schrs, farmers, workers, businessmen and then servicemen. If a business person did not have a backer he would suffer severe injustice. Constable Zhang sneered. Okay, show me your receipts. Ye Xiaoxian hurriedly asked Baozhu to fetch the tax receipts. However, after Constable Zhang looked at it he sneered again. Youve paid something alright but what youve paid is the lowest tax bracket which is for small traders, but look at how big your business is and one jar of wine costs five hundred coins, yet youve only paid the lowest tax rate. Who do you expect Im going to arrest then? After Constable Zhang finished talking he gave an order to his men. Take her away! Xun Wenda stood in front of Ye Xiaoxian and said with a viinous smile, Mrs. Xiao, this way please! Ye Xiaoxian looked at Xun Wenda coldly and her intuition told her that Xun Wenda must have also yed a role in this matter. Last time when the two uncles came to dine here this man was with them. Could it be that the gang hade up with some tricks to entrap her? Li Hongmei saw that Ye Xiaoxian was going to be taken away and despite being very worried she was unable to stop them, so she hurriedly asked Little Five to apany her as he could more or less take care of her. On the other hand Li Hongmei asked Little Six, Quickly go to the dock to check if Baoshan is still there. If he is, ask him toe back immediately. Xiao Baoshan had just gone sailing however. He had been to the provincial capital this time and would not be back for two days at least. Ye Xiaoxian had left for already half a day and note back until now. The restaurant could not open up without Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei was in a panic. All she could think of was Schr Wong and Liu Qianqian. After pondering things over, Li Hongmei decided that Liu Qianqian was closer to their family as Lord Liu also came to dine in their restaurant from time to time. Li Hongmei got Xiao Baozhu to look after the restaurant and she went to find Lord Liu, thinking that maybe Lord Liu would get Little Ye out. ... Ye Xiaoxian was taken to the government office in no time. The person in charge of her case was a tax official called Fang Shanding. As what Ye Xiaoxian was suspected of was tax rted they would not need to tie her down or anything but just let her sit down and check the ounts with her carefully. Fang Shanding did not sound friendly in the slightest to Ye Xiaoxian. Youre running a business but have only paid two taels of silver per month, is that right? Ye Xiaoxian said, When we dered our ie before, the standard tax rate for our restaurant was two taels. But ording to our nationalw, because you have got a kind of wine costing five-hundred coins per jar and also charge five-hundred coins for a single meal, and assuming that you have ten tables of customers per day, you should make several taels of silver a day, right? You should pay the highest tax rate which is six taels monthly. Paying six tales a month equated to earning nothing. It was no wonder that doing business in town was really difficult. Even some steadfast businessmen could not make a fortune. Ye Xiaoxian exined, Sir, this is not the way of calcting the profit as you havent taken the primary costs into ount. The wine is not homemade. We bought it from a wine factory in the west district and we are actually the consignee, so we dont make much money from it at all. Moreover, to open up a restaurant we have to hire hands, pay the rent and spend a lot on buying vegetables and hiring workers. We dont make much money in one day actually. Two taels of silver is the very most amount we can afford to pay in taxes. Nonsense, my men in the government office have been to your restaurant to eat. You cant fool me. Ye Xiaoxian sneered. So does this mean that someone has reported us? Sir, please examine this matter carefully and dont believe everything youre told. What a joke. Am I going to believe you instead of my own men? I heard that you charge more than any other restaurant, so in this case you of course need to pay much more taxes than others. That is that. Unless you pay off these taxes youll be locked away for a month or so and dont even think of opening up your establishment again! Ye Xiaoxian had seen something like this in the modern era but there were some writtenws and rules in the modern days. As long as you handled affairs ording tows then others would not be able to make things difficult for you. However, in this era they hadws but they were not clearly written and those lords were the only ones who had the final say in how much money people should pay. She did not want to stay in the government office but was not willing to pay the rest of the money, so they were just in a stalemate here. Giving it some thought, this must have done by Xun Wenda or elder and third uncles. ... Outside the government office Xun Wenda was picking his teeth with a stalk of grass and made a phew noise from to time to time. Who knew what he was spitting. Standing in front of him were Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu. Xiao Tieshu kept saying, I dont think its a good idea. We are family after all and this is a bit too much... Phew! Xun Wenda spat something again and then scolded Xiao Tieshu severely. Whats too much? Too much for what? That day the old slut charged you for food and forced you two to write an IOU, did she ever consider you as her family? Shes asked for it, she deserves it! Xiao Tongshu also said resolutely, Yes, elder brother. This is retribution for the second household. They not only charged us for lunch but abused our pa. He looked half-human when he got back home. Our old man looked fine before but has wasted away badly staying with them. This is just a small punishment from us and I dare them to treat us like that in the future. Xun Wenda said, Thats right. tax evasion is a major crime. If they dont pay it off they cant open up. If they want to open up again they better pay more taxes. If they had behaved from the very beginning they wouldnt have ended up paying so much money. ... Ye Xiaoxian stayed at the government office alone. Fang Shanding said that he would give her time to consider it, letting her choose if she would like to open up the restaurant or stay here. She could not make up her mind so she was left in the back of the government office. However, she was not at all afraid. She did not think that she had done anything wrong as she had merely been tricked nastily by others, and besides, Xiao Baoshan had confessed his love to her. With him behind her she felt much more steady in her heart. Chapter 109 - Shall I Use My Allure? Chapter 109: Shall I Use My Allure? Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio She would surely continue to keep her business open but the only thing was that she was not willing to give up her hard-earned profits to these people. She had not really resigned herself to the consequences, so that was why she did not agree with Fang Shanding to pay off the taxes. Would she suffer for it? She would certainly suffer losses. She would still have to work hard but would make less money in the future. What was more, this time they had charged her for tax evasion but she didnt know what would be next. She had not seen through all of the string-pulling in these ancient times. While her mind was entangled and puzzled an attendant of the government suddenly came to her and told her that she was free to go. That quickly? Lord Liu hase. Just go out and meet them yourself! said the attendant. Ye Xiaoxian went out, not seeing Lord Liu but finding Li Hongmei waiting for her. Little Ye, are you alright? Oh, I was so worried. Luckily Miss Qianqin is so kind and asked Lord Liu to help us, otherwise...I wouldnt know what to do. I was worried that youd be beaten in there or be bullied by them. Li Hongmei had been really scared and her legs had been weak until now. Ma, Im alright, they didnt pick up on me. They just asked me some questions. Ye Xiaoxianforted Li Hongmei and then asked, Where is Lord Liu? Hes still discussing things with that tax official. I wonder how itll turn out. Shall we wait for him toe out and see what the result will be? Li Hongmei had finally managed to stop shaking while talking but her heart still fluttered. The two of them then waited outside the government office. After another hour Lord Liu finally came out. Why are you here? Hurry up and get in my carriage! Lord Liu said. Lets talk while riding. The carriage was big enough to amodate the three of them. Lord Liu, its all thanks to you this time or our Little Ye would...thank you so much. As soon as Li Hongmei climbed into the carriage she started to thank Lord Liu again and again. Dont mention it. I didnt really do much but just asked them to let Little Ye go, but about the taxes... Lord Liu frowned. Im afraid they insist on full payment. You know, the tax payments now are ssified into three tiers which are third, sixth and ninth levels. Im afraid someone like you who doesnt know the tricks of the trade will have to pay the sixth or ninth tier. What are the tricks of the trade? asked Li Hongmei. Lord Liu said, Its not a writtenw but an unspoken rule of the government themselves. If you offer them some benefit you can pay the third tier, but once they have something on you, you have to pay the sixth or even ninth. Lord Liu turned to Ye Xiaoxian. Actually, Ive figured out what happened in your case. The reason it happened in the first ce is that youre not sophisticated enough. Living in this society, one is not always supposed to be too straight. Youd better try your best not to provoke some people. Ye Xiaoxian said, I just dont want to pamper thosezybones who just mope around and sponge off us. Sometimes you have to pamper them, especially when you havent been able to handle it. Little Ye, think about what I said. If you find it useful you may listen to me. If you dont, then stick with your own way, but you will have to suffer a bit. As they were talking they arrived at the restaurant. Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian got out of the carriage and Lord Liu went back home. Xiao Baozhu, Xian, Little Five and Little Six saw Ye Xiaoxian returning home soundly and then breathed a sigh of relive. The whole group had been scared to death just now and dared not even open the gate of the restaurant. Some diners came and then left in disappointment and some even asked if they would still open tomorrow. Li Hongmei asked Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, what shall we do now? Are we going to open up as usual? Yes, just as usual. Lets just do what we usually do. However, while speaking, aplicated look shed across Ye Xiaoxians eyes. Being sophisticated, eh? Surely she could handle that! The following day, Liu Qianqian came to eat and also asked Ye Xiaoxian toe over as she wanted to have a word with Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian then asked Li Hongmei toe over and cook the next several dishes. Li Hongmei watched Ye Xiaoxian cook all day long and she already knew how to cook most of the dishes in the restaurant. It was a rare chance for her to put the theory into practice, so she agreed to it immediately. Li Hongmei also found that little Ye had been worked too hard in the kitchen day after day and wished she could find someone to rece her, otherwise she would sooner orter be a haggard housewife, polluted by all the cooking grease and smoke all day long. Besides, Little Ye did not have the chance to spend some quality time with Baoshan. Li Hongmei had always been hoping that Little Ye could go to the dock to call on Baoshan, as it could improve their rtionship and they also would not need to go up to the roof to chat. That was right. Li Hongmei knew that they were chatting on the roof. She was getting old and was easily woken up by slightest stir. Ye Xiaoxian went to Liu Qianqians reserved room with a bowl of sour and sweet plum soup. Seeing Liu Qianqian, Ye Xiaoxian paused in a daze. She had not seen Liu Qianqian for a while and she had be more plump. If she gained any more then she would end up overweight. Miss Qianqian, howe youve be so chubby? Is it that you dont go out at all and only stay in and eat? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Its all your fault! said Liu Qianqian. Why are you using me? Ye Xiaoxian sat down in front of Liu Qianqian and took some roasted melon seeds to eat. You havent been to my cetely. Liu Qianqian also ate roasted melon seeds while talking. You have been to my house to cook for me before, havent you? Our cook was not pleased as I only ate what you cooked but not his dishes, so every time you came to cook he wrote down the ingredients you used and your cooking process. After practicing it over and over, oh my god, he had actually cooked something which tasted the same as yours. Tell me, how creepy is that? Gosh! Ye Xiaoxian joked. Luckily he hasnt opened up a restaurant topete with mine. If he does, you let me know me first and Ill knock him down with a rod! Liu Qianqian smiled. Sure, if he dared to undercut your business Id be the first one to teach him a lesson. By the way you dont sound too happy today. Is it because you were taken away and held for half a day yesterday? Of course. I was tricked by others. The taxes I used to pay were two taels a month and I may have to pay six taels from now on. You be the judge, its not easy to make money with my humble restaurant, is it? At six taels well earn nothing after paying the taxes. Liu Qianqian asked, So what are you going to do? Ye Xiaoxian though about Fang Shanding and then said, As far as I can see, although there are tax rules they are not strict. As for how much money I should pay, only the tax officials opinion matters. I have to find a chance to get to know this man and curry his favor. Liu Qianqian could not help but ask, Are you trying to use your allure to curry his favor? Arent you afraid that your man, therge Xiao Baoshan, will be jealous? Miss Qianqian, youve mistaken me. Although I do have some allure, which may not be a ten but at least a nine, I wont use it unless I have no alternative, said Ye Xiaoxian. Liu Qianqian thenughed. You are too much. Youre just a haggard housewife cooking in the kitchen, yet you think you have allure. Youll make yourself aughingstock if anyone else hears that. Chapter 110 - He Is That Bastard

Chapter 110: He Is That Bastard

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Miss Qianqian! Ye Xiaoxian was not in a good mood so she wanted no more emotional blows. I was just upset yesterday, so dont mock me anymore. Give me some confidence. Liu Qianqian smiled and said, Im here today about this matter of yours. I know that tax official. He is familiar with that cousin-inw of mine. Your cousin-inw? The one youd been so infatuated with that you almost died for him? Ye Xiaoxian wanted to make sure the cousin-inw was that one. She and Liu Qianqian chatted quite happily in a back-and-forth conversation and the two were like best friends, talking about all kinds of intimate things. Liu Qianqian suddenly ground her teeth together. He is that bastard. So...are you going to find your cousin-inw for me? Is it really alright? You two have already been... With a modern mode of thinking Ye Xiaoxian felt that as Liu Qianqian had been hurt once she would never ever see her cousin-inw. Liu Qianqian said, Already been what? Im not that fragile. Havent you told me before that the only way to solve a problem is to face it. Ive already gone through all that, so when I see him again I wont have other thoughts. He is nothing but a peer to me now. Herdyship was indeed broad-minded which made Ye Xiaoxian admire her very much. Liu Qianqian said again, That tax official is called Fang Shanding right? He just had a son only days ago. Its his first son as what hes had before are all daughters. Hes going to hold a banquet to celebrate the first-month birthday for his son. Ill ask my condemned cousin-inw to introduce you to him. What do you think? Sure, Ye Xiaoxian agreed immediately. I keep thinking how Im going to get familiar with Fang Shanding. Liu Qianqian looked at Ye Xiaoxian and then shook her head. Sigh, these things are really just social intercourse which people use in scheming against each other. I really do not wish to see you be a scheming woman but you can t help it as the society forces you to. Ye Xiaoxian raised her tea cup to Liu Qianqian. Thank you for your help. Lets use tea as wine and this toast is to you. Liu Qianqian chuckled. Dont put on those words. Whether itll work or not, it still depends on your capability. Ill go to call on my cousin-inw to see if hell help. Will he offer any help? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Well he should. As a matter of fact, he owes me. But when you go and look for him, what if...your cousin... Ye Xiaoxian was still not sure. My cousin knows it. Well, thats enough chatting. Just wait for my good news! ... By nightfall Liu Qianqian had already sent Ye Xiaoxian the news, asking her to go to a house in the east district. When Ye Xiaoxian arrived at the time given to her, Liu Qianqian had already been waiting by the entrance to thene. Liu Qianqian lifted the curtain of the carriage and shouted to her, Little Ye, over here! On that very day it was the first time Ye Xiaoxian had seen the man for whom Liu Qianqian had pined day and night and had almost died of starvation. She thought he would look as handsome as Pan An, the hottest guy in Chinese ancient history, but just ncing at him Ye Xiaoxian found this guy to be so ordinary. After she looked at him carefully she then found him extraordinarily ordinary. Liu Qianqians cousin-inw was called Bai Qi and was twenty-five or twenty-six years old with a height of around one-hundred and seven centimeters. His upper body was quite chunky with a protruding belly. The only upside of his looks was that he was light-skinned, but what was so good about a man having light skin anyway? Liu Qianqian suddenly felt that Liu Qianqians taste was ordinary. When Bai Qi saw Liu Qianqian his eyes actually showed a trace of affection. He also murmured, Qianqian... As if there was a lingering sense of guilt towards Liu Qianqian in his heart. Liu Qianqians attitude was rather in. She introduced Ye Xiaoxian to Bai Qi. This is the female cook I mentioned before. Luckily shes been at my side during this time or Id long be dead. Bai Qi only looked at Ye Xiaoxian briefly and then turned to Liu Qianqian. Its for this reason that after you mentioned her to me I agreed to help you right away. What about Fang Shanding? When will hee? asked Liu Qianqian again. Hell arrive soon. Ill chat with him for a while and drink some tea. Qianqian, you... The way Bai Qi looked at Liu Qianqian was full of sentimentality. Liu Qianqian just answered inly, Then Ill bring Little Ye to the kitchen and well check which ingredients are needed so I can ask the servants to buy some. After Liu Qianqian finished talking she took Ye Xiaoxian away with her but Bai Qi was still standing on the spot and gazing at Liu Qianqian in a daze. Ye Xiaoxian was confused. As he loves Qianqian so much, what happened in the past... She then thought: Maybe Qianqian did not want to be his concubine. ... There was a windingne leading to the kitchen in the back. While walking along thene, Liu Qianqian, who was rather aloof before, began to asked Ye Xiaoxian impatiently, Little Ye, what do you think of my cousin-inw? Do you want to hear the truth? Or the lie? Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Just tell me what you think. I want the truth, said Liu Qianqian. I can only say hes ordinary, Ye Xiaoxian said frankly. He is ordinary alright! said Liu Qianqian. I dont even know why I used to love him so much. Well, I dont know what got into me. What about now? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Now when I see him I also find him ordinary. Maybe Ive already outgrown him, so I dont feel anything towards him. He looks just like a stranger to me now. Havent you seen just now that I wasnt very warm with him? said Liu Qianqian. Ye Xiaoxian looked at Liu Qianqiansplexion and could not help but smile faintly. It was true that Liu Qianqian had already outgrown it but after all, she had been hurt and suffered so much, so how could she let it go so easily? While thinking, someone else in the pavilion ahead greeted Liu Qianqian. Qianqian... Ye Xiaoxian looked forwards and saw a young woman of around seventeen or eighteen standing in the pavilion who must have been waiting down there for a long time. This was probably Liu Qianqians cousin. Ye Xiaoxian thought: The two of them can be considered rivals. Will they start fightingter? However, Liu Qianqian, who was beside her, greeted her cousin warmly. Cousin! Qianqian, I heard that youde, so I waited for you here specially. Its been a while, how are you? I heard that... Her cousin looked very sorrowful. Im good. Nothings happened. See, Im going to be fat again, said Liu Qianqian showing no concern. Her cousin looked very tender and fragile, insisting on mentioning the unhappy old story which bothered Liu Qianqian the most. Qianqian, actually it was all our fault. In the past, we three were... Cousin, if you keep mentioning that old story no one will be willing to marry me. I have no thoughts about my cousin-inw at all, so rest assured. Ivee to find him for my friend. I only met him for a short while and now were going to cook some dishes in the kitchen. See youter, cousin. Liu Qianqian then gripped Ye Xiaoxians hand and walked away. Ye Xiaoxian did not ask much. She knew that Liu Qianqian could not hold it back for long and would tell her the whole story soon enough. Chapter 111: - What A Womanizer He Is Chapter 111: What A Womanizer He Is Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio As Li Hongmei expected, not long after arriving at the kitchen Liu Qianqian startedining to her. In the past my cousin, my cousin-inw and I were all single. I dont know what got into me that made me fall for the same guy as my cousin. Bai Qi said that he liked me but he also liked my cousin. He had hesitated for quite some time and then finally chose my cousin, and the reason he gave was that my cousin was a bit older than me, so I can wait longer to get married. Humph, what a flirt he is! Ye Xiaoxian had only just found out the truth about this rtionship, or she would have thought that Liu Qianqian was a home wrecker. She had actually been wrong about Liu Qianqian this whole time. She then put her arm around Liu Qianqians shoulder and said to her, Your cousin-inw can fall in love with two women at the same time, which would exin how indecisive he was, because no matter which one he chose the other one would inevitably be hurt. If he was resolute from the beginning there wouldnt be so much trouble. In short, you were the one he has been hurt. Ye Xiaoxian put it very mildly. If she was in modern times she would have directly called Bai Qi a womanizer. I know! Liu Qianqian, who was always optimistic and talkative, was caught in a sudden silence. She also helped Ye Xiaoxian to trim vegetables for cooking. ... This time Ye Xiaoxian made four courses. Differing from those in her restaurant, what she cooked this time were all banquet dishes. The first course, for example, called Best Wishes, was a beautiful tter containing five meats. The second was Flower and Fortune which was chicken marinated in yellow wine. The third was Eight Deities, made from cashew nuts and broad beans. Last but not least, the fourth course, Longevity, was steamed rice noodles. She had spent one hour cooking these dishes and finally they were served to Fang Shanding. Fang Shanding looked at the beautiful dishes and could not help but ask Baiqi, Have you changed to a new cook? Howe all the dishes look so beautiful? Arent these specially made for a banquet? But even so, only a cook from the capital city can make such dishes. What kind of a talent have you got here? Is there a cook who used to work in the capital, perhaps retired or seeking refuge with you? Bai Qi was a womanizer, though he was a skillful social person. He did not answer directly but only said to Fang Shanding, Try them first. If you like them Ill introduce the cook to you and ask her to cook the banquet for your sons first-month birthday. Really? Fang Shanding tried the dishes immediately. The dishes not only looked inviting but tasted very delicious. Fang Shanding tried each of them and rained praise on all of them. Having tasted all of the four courses Fang Shanding said, Brother Bai, Im already in myte thirties and have only got one son. You must introduce this cook to me. I really want this cook to make the dishes for my sons first-month birthday banquet and show off to all my guests! Therefore, Bai Qi asked someone to bring Ye Xiaoxian out. Fang Shanding saw Ye Xiaoxian and was taken aback. You? Ye Xiaoxian bobbed in a curtsy to Fang Shanding and smiled. Sir, Im Ye Xiaoxian, the cook of The Xiaos Cuisine. I made those dishes you just tried. Fang Shanding then looked at Bai Qi, feeling that he had been tricked. Bai Qi then hurriedly exined. Brother Fang, Im not tricking you or anything. This cook, Miss Ye, is my cousins friend and as my cousin requested me to introduce her to you, I couldnt possibly refuse. Besides, arent you anxious about how to host your sons birthday banquet? As her cooking can make you gain face, why dont you just get her to cook the dishes for the banquet? Fang Shanding was not stupid and he looked at Ye Xiaoxian. There must a condition right? Is it about the taxes? Ye Xiaoxian then answered in a tone that was neither humble nor pushy, Sir, my restaurant is a rather humble business and theres not so much profit to be made from it. Two taels a month in taxes are our limit already. We could not manage if more taxes were added. How much do you charge for the birthday banquet then? asked Fang Shanding. Ill write down a list of ingredients for you to purchase. I promise I wont make a profit out of it. Ill only charge for thebor which is just one tael of silver. Would that be alright? Ye Xiaoxian thought if she was to be sophisticated she might as well be sly. He saw that Ye Xiaoxian was rather sincere and, moreover, her cooking was great. Cooking so many dishes to fill an entire table would cost at least three taels in hiring other famous chefs, so he said, Fine, Ill send someone to inform you when the timees. As for the taxes on your restaurant, just pay as usual, two taels per month. Thank you so much, Mr. Fang! ... Liu Qianqian arranged her own carriage to take Ye Xiaoxian back home. In the carriage Ye Xiaoxian was in a pretty good mood as, after all, she had conquered another difficulty. However, Liu Qianqian was rather silent. She did not talk but simply stared out of the window quietly. Ye Xiaoxian guessed that the reason Liu Qianqian was so silent must be that she came today to see Bai Qi again. Some people were neither outstanding nor nice or even terrible womanizers, but once you fell in love with them you could not forget them easily because, after all, not everyone could regard their exes as enemies. Those who regarded their exes as enemies must be suffering themselves. How blind must they have been to fall for such a person? When the carriage had almost reached the restaurant, Liu Qianqian then suddenly turned around and breathed out deeply. Good, from tomorrow on Ill ask my pa to arrange me some blind dates. ... Ye Xiaoxian said nothing. Little Ye, hows it going with you and your big husband? Any progress? Has he offered you any kind gestures? Have you slept together yet? Ye Xiaoxian did not want to upset Liu Qianqian so she said, He did offer some kind gestures but, well, thats all. We havent slept together. You havent slept together? Come on, seize the opportunity. Im not into that now. There are so many things going on at the restaurant, as you see, weve got this matter which popped up today and we have to prepare the birthday banquet for Mr. Fang. Im gonna be worked to death. They arrived at the restaurant and Li Hongmei got down while Liu Qianqian rode back home alone in her carriage. When Ye Xiaoxian got back to the restaurant she breathed a sigh of relief, both for herself and for Liu Qianqian. ... At the gate of the government office. As the weather became cooler there were not so many people resting under the trees like in summer. Still, Xun Wenda, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were here. Xun Wenda had been patrolling around The Xiaos Cuisine and found that the restaurant was open as usual. Xun Wenda was curious. Would Ye Xiaoxian rather pay six taels of taxes per month than close her restaurant? Logically, wouldnt she feel under the weather for a while? He then went again to the tax official and tentatively asked Fang Shandings little assistant about the matter of increasing taxes for The Xiaos Cuisine, however, the little assistant did not want to answer this question. He also asked Xun Wenda to stop sticking his nose into it, as the affairs of tax revenue was thest business for an attendant. Xun Wenda had no choice but to leave. Now Xun Wenda saw that Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were all resting under the tree, so he went over to inquire about this matter. Tieshu, Tongshu, the restaurant opened by your familys second household, they havent been asked to pay more taxes, have they? Chapter 112 - Will You Marry The One? Chapter 112: Will You Marry The One? Trantor: Flying Lines How can we know? said Xiao Tieshu. He was still afraid of even passing by the restaurant out of the fear of being chased by Li Hongmei for the money he owed. Dont you want to inquire about it? asked Xun Wenda. Xiao Tongshu said, My brother and I really dont want to get involved with their business now. If they happen to be asked to pay more taxes then they deserve it but if not theyre just lucky. Were not bothered. And youre alright with just letting them lead such an easy life? Xun Wenda asked again. So what? What else can we do? Xiao Tieshu did not wish to get involved with Li Hongmeis business either. He would certainly like to see the second household go broke but if they just focused on the business of the second household all the time it would not benefit them. ... Schr Wong also went there to eat that day, only he came ratherte when the restaurant was about to close. Ye Xiaoxian was already preparing dinner for her family when Li Hongmei told her that Schr Wong had arrived and was asking for a portion of sweet and sour ribs and fish fillets in hot chili oil as usual. Ye Xiaoxian looked at the remaining ingredients which were sufficient for half a portion of ribs and fish, so she cooked them all for Schr Wong as he could not eat much anyway. After she had made Schr Wongs food Ye Xiaoxian asked Xian to cook the food for their family. Xian had been assisting Ye Xiaoxian in the kitchen for quite a long time already and sometimes, when there were fewer customers, Ye Xiaoxian also let Xian learn to make one or two stir-frys. This way when she was upied Xian could fill in, otherwise she would die from all the hard work. Ye Xiaoxian carried the cooked dishes and went to find Schr Wong. Schr Wong had visited so many times and his favorite table was the booth on the second floor. Ye Xiaoxian mainly wanted to thank Schr Wong for his help thest time. He had been hit by that Young Master Zhang and she wondered how bad it was. Ye Xiaoxian did not feel like going to his house and visiting him because she could tell that Lord Wong looked at her in a rather scornful way. She would only embarrass herself if she went to visit him. When she got to the booth Ye Xiaoxian saw that Xiao Baozhu, who was ahead of her, had already sat beside Schr Wong. She didnt know what they were talking about. Baozhu wasughing but Schr Wong was just wearing a in look. Baozhu was wearing a new cotton jacket made from the fabric brought by Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian did not expect that Baozhu still had not given up on Schr Wong. She thought that Baozhu had already understood from what they talked aboutst time. Sister-inw, let me help you! Xiao Baozhu saw Ye Xiaoxian carrying the food upstairs and went to help her right away. Thanks! said Ye Xiaoxian. Schr Wong saw Ye Xiaoxianing with food so he also got up and helped her. He did not treat Ye Xiaoxian as a waitress but felt that everyone was equal. Ye Xiaoxian then smiled. Mr. Wong, please just sit down. We can manage to serve food and so on. Dont get your hands dirty. Oh dont worry, dont worry. Schr Wong was always a bit nervous seeing Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baozhu suddenly thought: Is it possible that Mr. Wong had some feelings for sister-inw? He had helped Baofeng so kindly. Is it also that he did a favor for sister-inw? Mr. Wong, its all thanks to you that we resolved the matter with Young Master Zhangst time. How was your wound afterwards? Were you hurt somewhere important? asked Ye Xiaoxian with great concern. Little Ye, dont worry. I wasnt hurt badly. They were just some scratches. They healed after applying medicine, Schr Wong replied politely. He always called Ye Xiaoxian, Miss Ye, which made Ye Xiaoxian feel odd, sost time when they went to the private school together she had asked him to call her Little Ye instead. Thats great. Ive been worried about your wound, but you did note over after that and I also couldnt be so bold as to visit your house. I feel relieved now seeing that youre fine, said Ye Xiaoxian with some regret. Schr Wong hurriedlyforted her. Thank you for thinking of me, Little Ye. Im alright, truly. Well, Mr. Wong, please enjoy your food then. We wont disturb you any longer! said Ye Xiaoxian. She then said to Xiao Baozhu beside her, Baozhu, lets go downstairs. Dont disturb Mr. Wong anymore. Xiao Baozhu was not willing to leave. She had not seen Schr Wong for such a long time that wanted to stay at his side to have a good chat. Ye Xiaoxian was about to push Baozhu again but Schr Wong said, You havent eaten either? Do you want to sit down and have dinner together? Thats alright. My ma has made dinner downstairs, said Ye Xiaoxian politely. She was about to drag Xiao Baozhu away with her when Schr Wong suddenly said nervously, Little Ye, can I...have a word with you? ... Ye Xiaoxian found Schr Wong rather odd today, as if he was going to unburden his mind on her. Could it be some household annoyance? Or matters between men and women? If it was about men and womens rtionships Ye Xiaoxian would find it inappropriate. She was married after all and Xiao Baozhu was also here watching them. Baozhu may also stay, he added as he saw Ye Xiaoxian hesitate. Schr Wong did not want her to misunderstand anything. Xiao Baozhu was not willing to leave in the first ce and as Schr Wong looked a bit under the weather and had something to discuss with Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baozhu then said to her quickly, Sister-inw, why dont we just listen what Mr. Wong wants to say? Hurry up and sit down! Seeing that Xiao Baozhu did not have to leave, Ye Xiaoxian then felt more at ease so she sat back. Mr. Wong, what do you want to talk with me about? About my family issue. Schr Wong poured a cup of tea each for Xiao Baozhu and Ye Xiaoxian. He ate the dishes while Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu drank the tea, which made it seem like Schr Wong was not enjoying the food alone. I know, maybe its not appropriate for me to chat with you about this, but I truly cant find anyone else to turn to. My family has been pushing me to get married against my will. Schr Wong had already ignored Xiao Baozhu and only looked at Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baozhu felt tremendously disappointed. Getting pressured by parents to get married? It surely was a headache whether one was in the modern or ancient era. Luckily she was an orphan in the modern era, while when she hade to the ancient era she was already XSs wife, so she had never experienced such difficulties. So whats your n? Ye Xiaoxian sipped the tea and asked calmly. I nned to go to the capital city to take the examination and then go back home to build a family, but my father did not agree. He insists that I should get married before establishing my career. Ye Xiaoxian did not know what to say since it was his own problem after all. Xiao Baozhu then asked, The main point is, will you marry the one you really love? Schr Wong sneered. My future wife was all predetermined by my parents and the matchmaker. Its not important whether I love her or not. Its all about the family background. Ye Xiaoxian then asked, So why doesnt your father wait for you to pass the imperial exam and get a promising grade, then set you up with someone? And by then wont you be able to marry someone of even higher status? My dad doesnt think I can get a promising grade. Schr Wong smiled bitterly. Neither do I actually. Right, but its your family issue, Im not quite sure. I can only see that youre really struggling. No matter what decision you make you have to think it through. You have to choose the way you live your own life. No matter how you will live in the future, dont regret the decision you make now. Chapter 113 - You Are No Match For Little Ye Chapter 113: You Are No Match For Little Ye Trantor: Flying Lines The more objectively Ye Xiaoxian spoke, the gloomier Schr Wong felt. She was being objective because she never thought about him in that way and did not like him romantically at all. However, Xiao Baozhu encouraged Schr Wong seriously. Mr. Wong, I think you will get a promising grade. Youd better not get married for now. When you pass the examination with a promising grade it wont be toote to marry by then. Seriously, Ive read so many novels and all the schrs in theme first in the highest imperial examination! Schr Wong smiled. There were so many students all over the state but only one of them, Zhuangyuan, came first. There were also Bangyan (second ce), Tanhua (third ce) and Jinshi (the highest and final degree) etc. With his talent, he would thank God for passing the provincial exam and being ranked as Juren. He looked at Xiao Baozhu and said to her, as if speaking to a younger sister, Thank you for your faith. Ye Xiaoxian saw that Schr Wong stopped talking about his problem and felt relieved. She was actually afraid of anyone sharing their personal problems with her because she did not know how to enlighten them. Schr Wong took a bite of his rib and then looked at Ye Xiaoxian again. Little Ye, I feel that you and me...have an affinity, from the first time you brought Baofeng to find me. Ye Xiaoxian, being sensitive, felt what Schr Wong said was a bit odd, so she then looked up at Schr Wong. Luckily Schr Wong exined in time. Dont get me wrong. I dont mean that. I know youve already married and we wont have anything like that. I just feel maybe we can be friends. Ye Xiaoxian did not know how ancient people define friends. She then replied to Schr Wong, Arent we friends already? Schr Wong looked at Ye Xiaoxian in surprise and asked her, Are we really...friends? Youve helped me, helped Baofeng and stepped up for me. If we still arent friends, how are we going to be friends then? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Schr Wongs eyes shone with some surprise. I thought that you did not consider me your friend, so can Ie to you for a chat when I have some problems in the future? As long as Im free and its convenient, it will be alright. Ye Xiaoxian told him the condition first. Schr Wong said, Little Ye, dont worry. Im a schr and know the boundaries. I wonte and disturb you much. Well, you havent had dinner, right? Go ahead and have dinner. Ill go back after eating. Ye Xiaoxian also felt it was awkward to sit here all the time and watch Schr Wong eat, so she pulled Baozhu again. Baozhu, lets go. Xiao Baozhu was not moving and after Ye Xiaoxian reminded her twice she then left unwillingly. ... Ye Xiaoxian and others were also going to have dinner. Li Hongmei asked Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, youve been chatting with Mr. Wong for a long time. What did you chat about? Ye Xiaoxian said, Mr. Wong said that his family have arranged a marriage for him but he wanted to take the examination first. Now hes not sure how to choose. Li Hongmei was also a bit conservative so she said right away, Of course he should get married first. Getting married is the most important thing but the exam can wait. If he could not get married, he would bemitting a big crime C he would have no children! Ye Xiaoxian said, I did not say anything. I just told him to follow his heart. Xiao Baozhu only sat and remained silent. She only ate half of her rice and then put down her chopsticks, saying that she was going back to her room to rest. Li Hongmei saw this and looked at Ye Xiaoxian in surprise. Whats the problem with Baozhu then? Ye Xiaoxian put more rice in her mouth and said, Im not sure, ma, just go and ask Baozhu yourself. Ye Xiaoxian did not think she could manage so many issues. Especially concerning rtions. Li Hongmei gave it some thought, recalling Baozhus behavior when she saw Schr Wong and she had some rough idea what was going on. ... After dinner Li Hongmei came to the room to find Baozhu. She was reading a novel by candlelight. When Li Hongmei entered she did not greet her mom and was seemingly in a bad mood. Li Hongmei then sat down and said to Baozhu, When we had dinner just now why did you stop eating so quickly. I tell you what, although were better off thanks to Little Ye and we can eat until were full of meat, still you should take every meal seriously. If you dont eat now then when youre up feeling hungry in thete evening dont cry about it, as by then youll get nothing to eat. Xiao Baozhu put down the novel sulkily. You are speaking about Little Ye all the time, like she was a Buddha or something, like our whole family have to rely on her for everything. Dont we still have second brother? You ungrateful thing, of course were relying on her, who else are we relying on? When your brother was a handyman, by then Little Ye was already selling cold jelly to make money. She has bought rice, flour and clothes for all of us. Weve benefited from Little Ye for such a long time, have you forgotten this already? I havent! said Xiao Baozhu. So what do you mean? Because of that Mr. Wong? Li Hongmei touched her raw nerve which made Xiao Baozhu even more upset. She said angrily, Mr. Wong said he wanted to make friends with sister-inw and I was beside them. I havent got married but Schr Wong was acting like he didnt even see me. Li Hongmei sighed. Little Ye is more mature than you, so naturally Mr. Wong would talk to her, or do you expect him talk to you, a little girl whos still wet behind the ears? What do you know? I dont know anything. Im no match for Little Ye. Are you satisfied now? ... Ye Xiaoxians room was just next door. It was a quiet evening and the wooden house was not soundproof at all, so she heard the entire conservation between Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu. Still, Ye Xiaoxian did note over to exin but just sat quietly. There was something called affinity between one another. For some, they would be grateful for what you did for them, but for others, they would not. Even though you may give them everything, they would not think you had done it right or not given them what they wanted. Ye Xiaoxian thought again, maybe Baozhu was still young and not sensible. Maybe she would understand when she was older. Next door, Li Hongmei was still criticizing Xiao Baozhu. Why dont you want topare yourself with Little Ye? Theres noparability between you two. Youre from different worlds. You should only remember that she has done a great favor for our family. It was her who guided us to what we are now, step by step. Now we dont have to put up with your grandpa or the first and third households. You and Baofeng dont have to go to the mountains to chop firewood or cut grass for pigs. Baofeng can go to school and youve learn a lot of characters and can even do the ounts now. We should give Little Ye the credits for all this. If you reproach her again from now on, Ill be the first one to criticize you! Xiao Baozhu suddenly burst into tears. Ma, I...I actually said that because of Mr. Wong! He only wanted to make friends with sister-inw and did not even look at me. I...I cant stomach an insult like this! I knew it! Baozhu, dont me ma for not reminding you. You and Mr. Wong are so different. The standards of his family are so high that you wont live up to them! I might as well w my way in, okay? Xiao Baozhu said furiously. Crawl? How are you going to crawl? Even if you want to be his concubine he may not want you, unless you will be his maid and do all the chores in his family. Baozhu, you finally dont have to do those heavy chores now, why do you even want to stoop so low? Just do your job behind the counter now. Ill keep an eye out for some nice chap who suits you. Were now running a restaurant, its not like being in the vige before. Back then you could only marry a vige chap, but now if we keep looking we probably can find you a town dweller. Chapter 114 - Scholar Wong Goes On A Blind Date Chapter 114: Schr Wong Goes On A Blind Date Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baozhu did not take a single word to heart. Her brain was full of the stories of the novels she read such as a prince falling for a maid and a youngdy falling for a poor schr. Since these stories can be written they must be true to some extent, so there was still hope so Schr Wong and herself. Li Hongmei saw her daughter being silent, so she thought Baozhu had been persuaded. She then patted Baozhus shoulder, calming her down. Baozhu, listen to Ma, when Mr. Wonges next time, dont tag along anymore. Mr. Wong is no fool. When you tag along with him too often he will know what you are up to and may be afraid of you. Xiao Baozhuy down, pulling the duvet up and covering her head. ... When Schr Wong arrived home, just as he was walking to the front hall he saw his pa sitting there, obviously waiting for him. Pa, Im home! Schr Wong greeted his pa and then said, Itste already. Ill be off to my room then. Pa, have an early sleep too. However, Lord Wong said, Wait a minute. I have something to tell you! Schr Wong felt his scalp go numb all of a sudden. Ever since he resigned from the private school in the vige, each time he saw his pa he would pressure him to get married. He was thinking maybe he should go back to the vige to teach for a while again, or maybe go to the Orchid and Bamboo School to be a teacher, which would be great. However when Schr Wong was about to speak up he suddenly saw some gray hair growing on the side of Lord Wongs head. In his memory his father was always young and healthy, and no matter how many times Schr Wong had infuriated him, he could always pick up a wooden nk and hit him. He was even stronger than a vige redneck. However, he had seen his fathers the gray hair, so suddenly he realized that, before he had even noticed, his fathers pace had be slow and he almost looked a bit senile. He was thinking of trying his best to resist but at this moment he suddenly became feeble, so he walked to sit beside Lord Wong obediently. Pa, what can I do for you? asked Schr Wong calmly. Lord Wong saw that his son stopped protesting recklessly and started feeling a bit surprised. He then quickly took this opportunity and exined the matter for today. There is a borough chief called Qin from Dalun Vige whose daughter has just reached sixteen. Her name is Qin Qingqing and is known for her beauty throughout the whole vige. The most important thing is that Mr. Qin also has a son who has attained the highest degree of the imperial exam years ago and now has been working in the provincial capital as an official. As their family situation is superb they are very picky. They value intellectual men very much, so he would only consider a man who is at least a schr to be his son-inw. Son, if we can tie the knot with them our family will have another rtive who can support us in the future. Schr Wong felt both mentally and physically worn-out. At the moment his mind was in a mess. Remembering that when he was eating with Ye Xiaoxian tonight he had only put forward the idea of making friends with her yet she had already lost herposure, so she would never leave the Xiaos and stay with him. Schr Wong had lived for twenty years and it was the first and only time that he had fancied a girl. As he could not marry someone he loved, what difference would it be for him to just marry a random girl. Son, what are you hesitating about? Its such a good opportunity. If you miss this one youll really regret it in the future. With our family background, were not like those coarse vige men who get married just to have sons. We also have to consider our family. We need our inws to be helpful to us and only in this way will our family get better and better... Lord Wong was still patiently guiding his son to agree with him. He was thinking of persuading his son anyhow. But Schr Wong did not wait for him to finish and nodded. Pa, its all up to you. If theres something you need me to do, just let me know. Lord Wong was overjoyed and almost shed tears. Son, you finally have your ideas straightened out. Ill tell you what, I heard that thedy is really nice. Good-looking and cultured. Well, I never saw her before but only heard from others. If you agree, Ill take you to drop in on them tomorrow and well see if they like you or not. ... It was rare that Schr Wong agreed to get married, so Lord Wong quickly began busying himself with this matter. He had prepared some gifts for visiting Mr. Qin to propose to his daughter and on the third day he took Schr Wong to go to the Qins. The borough chief of Dalun Vige really loved intellectual men, so after seeing the handsome Schr Wong with his elegant demeanor, Mr. Qin implied to Schr Wong on the spot: Your son is the one. Mr. Qins daughter was called Qin Qingqing. In this era only parents can meet each other on a blind date but their children were not allowed to see each other, but Qin Qingqing secretly hid behind a screen, peeking at Schr Wong briefly. Qin Qingqing really liked Schr Wong just from a nce. She then blew a flute, signaling her mother. The daughter and the mother had agreed that one blow of the flute meant that she was satisfied with the man. If the flute was not blown it meant that she did not like him. Mrs. Qin then smiled to Lord Wong. We really like Yanbo. If you dont despise us for being just a chief boroughs family, we might as well pick an auspicious day to let them get married, shall we? Lord Wong hurriedly said, I dare not. How can I despise your family? As the inws have agreed, shall we just let nature take its course rather than being too careful about selecting a date. Shall we say the end of this month? Schr Wong had been sitting beside Lord Wong the entire time. If others asked him a question he would answer. If he was not asked he just sat there quietly. The marriage had been arranged before long. The two parties had exchanged cards with their childrens birthdays on them and the wedding would be held at the end of the month. ... After returning from Dalun Vige, Schr Wong went to The Xiaos Cuisine again. He had never drunk wine before but this time he ordered a bottle of Tipsy Princess right after he sat down. He then ordered another two appetizers and sat there to eat silently. He was not particrly disheartened but felt a slight panic about the unknown to follow, post-marriage. He wanted to drink a bit to calm himself down. After marrying he would be a family man. He had to live with a woman he had never seen before and would have children with her in the future, supporting a family. He did not know if he could be a good husband and father. Right after Schr Wong entered, Li Hongmei could tell that he was looking a little blue. Xiao Baozhu was thinking of serving him but was stopped by Li Hongmei. Li Hongmei had asked her not to approach Schr Wong anymore. Li Hongmei observed him for a while from downstairs, seeing that Schr Wong was a bit tipsy. She was also worried about him getting drunk, so she was obliged to go up and check on him. Mr. Wong, the wine you ordered is rather strong. Maybe you should stop drinking it. Im going to take it away, said Li Hongmei. Schr Wong stopped Li Hongmei and looked at her, saying, Let me drink. Just this once. Well... Li Hongmei did not know what to do. She was mainly worried that if Schr Wong got drunk and threw up here her restaurant would stink, furthermore they would have to take care of the drunk schr. However, Schr Wong suddenly said to Li Hongmei, Im going to get married at the end of this month! Chapter 115 - Baoshan Is A Freak? Chapter 115: Baoshan Is A Freak? Trantor: Flying Lines Well, this is good news. Li Hongmei did not expect that Schr Wong would tell her about this. He must be really drunk. Schr Wong smiled bitterly. I dont know if its good news or not. Of course its good news. If getting married is not good news what else is? Mr. Wong, where does the young maiden youre going to marrye from? Li Hongmei was rather nosy and wanted more information as Schr Wong was drunk. Schr Wong, however, had stopped talking and just looked towards the window in a daze as if there were something over there. Li Hongmei followed his gaze, also looking in that direction but did not see anything important. Isnt it just a window sill? Schr Wong started chucking while in his daze and then he suddenly fell down on the table and passed out. Well... Li Hongmei did not anticipate that Schr Wong would get so drunk. He did not throw up or got roaring drunk, but was just sleeping quietly. It is true that a mans behavior after getting drunk says a lot about his personality. Never mind, just let him sleep. Li Hongmei left the booth and closed the door. However, she did not notice Xiao Baozhu behind her. ... Xiao Baozhus heart ached out of pity. The reason that Schr Wong had drunk so much must be that his family pushed him to get married. Such a plot had also appeared in her novels and the protagonist was forced into it. After he got married he would find that he and his wife were unable get along and chat happily, so he would be lonely and isted all day long. That is, until he met the heroine. Xiao Baozhu had found out that Schr Wong did not particrly like her. What he liked should be someone like Little Ye. On the one hand she felt sorry for Schr Wong and on the other hand she felt sorry for herself, as Schr Wong would get married soon, so she would not have the chance by then. Still, she was not willing to give up. Ever since Xiao Baozhu met Schr Wong in the private school she had fallen in love with him. She had been missing him day and night whenever she ate or slept. She felt so happy once she saw him. She was willing to just let him marry other women. Xiao Baozhu, being heartbroken, walked down from the booth on second floor and back to the counter. Someone was there to pay their bill and she almost overcharged them and was scolded by the diner. Xiao Baozhu felt so wronged because, firstly, she was lovelorn and secondly, she felt simply unhappy being scolded by the diner. As she was feeling so dismal she suddenly remembered a plot in a novel. In a novel called Romance of the Forbidden City a rich youngdy crawled onto a princes bed for the sake of marrying him. After they had been found out, because of the youngdys family background the prince ended up marrying her and abandoning the heroine who was a handmaid. This was actually a tragedy. The youngdy may have owned the body of the hero but she did not have his heart. The hero only loved the heroine, the maid. Xiao Baozhu wondered if she should attempt to get Schr Wongs body first? When this idea popped into her mind she shocked herself! In the novel the reason that the youngdy could bring it off was because she was a youngdy, but what about her? Who was she? Would Schr Wong marry her? In order to get Schr Wong to marry her she not only should crawl to his bed but ought to make a scene of it! Xiao Baozhu was quite surprised by her own idea. Would it be too bold? But once thinking about her beloved Schr Wong preparing to marry somebody else she felt heartbroken. Maybe she should risk everything for Mr. Wong? ... No one would ever imagine that the shy Xiao Baozhu, who was only taking bills and doing the ounts behind the counter or spending all her spare time reading romantic novels, would act so audaciously! She firstly wrote something on a slip of paper and secretly put it in Schr Wongs palm while he was still sleeping. Schr Wong woke up, seeing the paper with its scribbles right away: Tonight at a quarter to eight, see you by the willow tree at the bridgehead. You wont miss me! Little Ye. Little Ye? Schr Wong sobered up immediately. Little Ye had something to say to him? Was it true? Maybe...she knew that he was going to get married so wanted to have an intimate conservation with him? But could it be a trap? Maybe he should go and check with Little Ye. Also, why was her writing so messy? However, although Schr Wong had his suspicions he still hoped it was true. Yes, what if it was true? He might as well go there tonight. The location was at the bridge head, not a lodge or something. Maybe she just simply wanted to chat? Schr Wong went down and paid the bill his pace sounded nervous, so he did not look at Xiao Baozhu but left in a hurry after paying the bill. The restaurant was almost empty around seven in the evening and Ye Xiaoxian and others were getting ready to have dinner. When they were eating, Li Hongmei mentioned Schr Wong. I heard that Mr. Wong is going to get married. The wedding is set for the end of this month! Ye Xiaoxian was not surprised. She said, His family has pressured him hard. Most of peoplepromise to their families and, moreover, Mister Wong is a man. Li Hongmei was a woman who had seen the world. She smirked. Ive never seen a man who didnt want to get married. Its good to have a wife, isnt it? He can hold her in his arms at night while sleeping. Any man would like to have eight or ten wives. Ye Xiaoxian hesitated. Li Hongmei saw this, knowing that she had made a mistake, so she corrected herself. But our Baoshan is not like that. Baoshan was born to be a weirdo, not like ordinary men. He only wants one. Born to be a weirdo? Everyone looked at Li Hongmei. Didnt she give birth to Baoshan? Ah, silly me. Slip of the tongue. I mean, Baoshan is more loyal, not like other men who prefer ying around. Li Hongmei patted herself on the face. Ye Xiaoxian smiled slightly. Being loyal or not, one would not know until they had spent a lifetime together. Some old men in their seventies or eighties still marry girls in their twenties. Meanwhile, Xiao Baozhu was thinking: Mr. Wong is not like that either. Mr. Wong is the most loyal person. Baozhu, why are you so quiet? Whats on your mind? asked Li Hongmei. Xiao Baozhu put her chopsticks down. Nothing. Im full. Im going to tidy up the backyard. You take your time eating. Hearing that she was going to tidy up the backyard, Li Hongmei thought Xiao Baozhu was acting upset because Schr Wong was going to get married. Li Hongmei thought: Just leave her alone. Shell get over it in a few days! ... Xiao Baozhu only tidied up for a little while and then ran to the bridgehead. The town in the past was different from that in modern times, being all lit up by streetmps. There were only a few families who hung outnterns. It was really dark outside, so even if Xiao Baozhu carried antern Schr Wong could not make out who it was. Schr Wong saw a petite figure by the willow holding antern. She looked like Little Ye! He was very excited and also came forward carrying hisntern. However, the one in front him put down herntern first. Schr Wong wanted to hold thentern, borrowing the light to check if she was in fact Ye Xiaoxian, yet the person suddenly fished a big wooden rod out of nowhere and, with a thump, he was knocked out. Before passing out, Schr Wong seemed to have glimpsed the face of Xiao Baozhu. Chapter 116 - What Happened Tonight? Chapter 116: What Happened Tonight? Trantor: Flying Lines Li Hongmei discovered that Xiao Baozhu had gone missing before she went to bed. She searched the entire restaurant but could not find her daughter and so she began to worry, asking everyone to go out and look for her. Shortly after going out they saw the butler of Lord Wongs house. The butler said that Schr Wong had also gone missing, asking them if he had gone for dinner at their restaurant. Hearing that someone from the restaurant was also missing, the butler was afraid that Schr Wong had eloped with somebody. He was about to mobilize everybody he knew in their n to bring him back. Unexpectedly, an attendant from Jui Lodge came to bring them a message, saying that Schr Wong was staying at their lodge and that it was a girl who had brought him there. ... Everyone hurriedly went to Jui Lodge. When they arrived the attendant showed them to a guest room there. When they arrived outside the room, everyone was standing still and not one of them dared to move. Li Hongmei asked the attendant worriedly, Just...just this one room? Both...both of them are in there? The attendant replied, Yes, just one room. When the girl helped him inside she asked us to find a room for the young man to have a rest. They meant to stay, didnt they? They were just here to take a rest and would leave after the young man woke up. Arent they...spouses? I thought they were together! Nonsense! Butler Wong scolded him right away. Our young master would never be with such a loose woman. Dont smear our young masters honest reputation! Li Hongmei found what he said rather displeasing. What honest reputation of your young master? My girl has her reputation too, doesnt she? And you call my girl a loose woman? Sir, dont you know the old saying: One hand cant p. Two hands are required! Butler Wong raised one hand, smacking his own forehead. Hows that for a p? You...just... Ye Xiaoxian, standing behind her, reminded Li Hongmei, Ma, dont argue with him. Lets find Baozhu first. Right, Little Ye is right. Lets find Baozhu first. Li Hongmei was argumentative though, her heart was still full of fear before the door was opened. Finally the door was open but what they saw made them all freeze on the spot. Baozhu and Schr Wong were lying on the bed, sleeping with their clothes strewn about. Li Hongmeis feet gave out from fright and Ye Xiaoxian was also a bit shocked. Oh my, Baozhu, how could you...how sinful this is. What on earth has happened? Li Hongmei suddenly cried and howled. In ancient times, womens reputations were valued most of all. What Xiao Baozhu had done had already ruined her whole life. Butler Wong said angrily, How could this girl crawl into my young masters bed? Humph, in order to w her way up into a wealthy family shes obviously done anything she could. Butler Wong, please be reasonable. Both of them are lying in bed, how are you so sure it was my Baozhu who tried to y her way into the wealthy family? Our master is a responsible young man and never lowers himself to ying around with women. It must that your girl tricked him and knocked him out. Butler Wong went over to the bed, helping Schr Wong to sit up and then carefully touched his head. There was indeed a swollen bump on the back of his skull. Butler Wong said resentfully, As expected. You shameless sluts! Li Hongmei saw Butler Wong remaining in front of the bed and quickly got on the bed and pulled Baozhu behind her in case others would surround and point at her. As for Ye Xiaoxian, she was only slightly surprised at first and then started watching this unfolding drama more distantly. Baozhu appeared to be asleep but her eyelids were moving. Apparently she was pretending to be passed out. It must be her who knocked out Schr Wong. She did not anticipate that a timid vige girl could be this daring. Ma...what happened? Xiao Baozhu had also woken up. After opening her eyes she acted as if she was suffering from amnesia and then looked around frightened and anxious. What happened to Mr. Wong? Xiao Baozhu asked. He...well... Xiao Baozhus acting skill was so poor that even Li Hongmei could tell. How foolish this daughter of hers is. Still, the damage was done, so Li Hongmei had no option but to y along for the sake of Xiao Baozhu. Baozhu, tell Ma, what happened tonight? Why were you lying on the same bed as Mr. Wong? How did you get to the lodge? Xiao Baozhu said, Ma, I dont know. After dinner I was thinking of taking a walk outside. When I was walking I bumped into an old man with white beard. He had a packet of powder and sprinkled it in front of me. Then I...I cant remember anything. Ma, Im so scared. So you cant remember anything you did next? asked Li Hongmei. However, in her mind she was thinking: Baozhu, cant you act more realistic? Cant you make up a more convincing excuse? My goodness. Butler Wong did not believe a single word. He insisted on waking up Schr Wong. After a long while Schr Wong opened his eyes and pulled himself up, but when he saw what was going on in front of him he was stupefied. Xiao Baozhu was sobbing, Schr Wong stared at Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian was silent at the door. Young master, youre up. Right, could you please tell us what was going on this evening. Why was this girl lying in the same bed as you? Why were both of your clothes strewn about? Schr Wong lowered his head and nced at his clothes. He also panicked briefly. He firstly looked at Ye Xiaoxian. He had only gone there tonight because of receiving Ye Xiaoxians letter, but when he went the one he had seen was Xiao Baozhu. Therefore, that scribble must have been Xiao Baozhus work. He knew it. He had known and yet hed still gone along like a fool. So, he had fallen into Xiao Baozhus trap and had even been knocked out by her, ending up here. Xiao Baozhu had been going to the mountains to chop firewood since she was little, so she was very strong. She could carry firewood on her back, so naturally she could carry him. Oh, what a blunder. Butler Wong saw Schr Wong just sitting there in a daze and not talking, so he urged him. Young master, what on earth happened tonight? Schr Wong still looked at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian then gave him an indication. Mr. Wong, its a matter of Baozhus reputation. Please think it through before you talk. Schr Wong understood Ye Xiaoxians indication. She was asking him to give consideration to Xiao Baozhus reputation. If he said it was Xiao Baozhu who did all of this tonight, Baozhus reputation would be ruined and perhaps she would end up going to prison. If that were the case, Xiao Baozhu would bepletely ruined. Li Hongmei also begged Schr Wong. Mr. Wong, our Baozhu respects you very much. She...she did not do this of her own free will. Whats more, what are the odds of Baozhu meeting you on the street? This must be the fate, or the work of the devil. Schr Wong was speechless again. Well, should he say that he went there after receiving Ye Xiaoxians letter? If he did that, it would be like confessing his attraction to Ye Xiaoxian, wouldnt it? It was not appropriate for him to say that Xiao Baozhu asked him toe, otherwise they would think he liked Xiao Baozhu. He then simply said, Ask Baozhu. How did she exin it? Li Hongmei then repeated what Xiao Baozhu told them. Chapter 117 - Making Her A Hand Maid Chapter 117: Making Her A Hand Maid Trantor: Flying Lines After Schr Wong finished talking he immediately looked at Xiao Baozhu in surprise. He was very sure that what happened tonight was plotted by Xiao Baozhu. Who could ever anticipate that a little girl who usually seemed quiet and harmless could set such a honey trap to trick someone. OK, I was also walking in the street and bumped into an elderly man and then I have no idea what happened next. Schr Wong said inly, As Schr Wong told his story, Li Hongmei then said to Butler Wong resentfully, Look, I told you my Baozhu was telling the truth. If you dare call her a slut or a loose woman again, Ill rip up your mouth! Butler Wongs attitude was somewhat mitigated but then he became rather worried. He looked at Schr Wong and said, Young Master, but youre going to marry Miss Qingqing at the end of this month. Now we have this ident. What shall we say to His Lordship? Lets leave first and talkter! Schr Wong then got off the bed. He was still dizzy and looked rather tired when he got up. Butler Wong went to help him immediately. Mr. Wong? Xiao Baozhu saw that Schr Wong did not give her any reassuring words, so she called to him from behind. However, Schr Wong did not reply at all but just walked towards the door. When he passed Ye Xiaoxian, Schr Wong paused for a second. Ye Xiaoxian quickly bowed to him and then whispered, Thanks. Schr Wong did not look at Ye Xiaoxian either but was only led by Butler Wong and went out of the lodge room. When Schr Wong had left, Li Hongmei suddenly hit Xiao Baozhu while scolding her. You little tramp, you think I dont know? What white bearded old man, you can fool others but you think you can fool me? Youve actually done such things. I really didnt expect that you could be this cheap. Who do you think Mr. Wong is? He did a big favor for Baofeng and our restaurant. He is such a good person and yet you dared to trick him. Because of you, what will he think of our family from now on? How will Baofeng feel in front of Mr. Wong in the future... Xiao Baozhu did not resist. She did not say a word and let Li Hongmei scold and hit her as she pleased. She had seeded in her goal so she did not care what others thought. So long as Schr Wong did not scold her everything would turn out just as she hoped. Even if she had to be his concubine she believed that she would have a happy life in the future. Ye Xiaoxian, who was standing outside, had not said a single word either. Baozhu, you are still too young and too na?ve. The future that awaits you will be full of suffering. ... It waste in the evening. Because they had made quite a lot of noise there was now a crowd surrounding Jui Lodge to watch this drama. Some of them were guests there and some were people from the neighborhood. Many of them were tucking their clothes tight and discussing in the sharp cold wind. This is the girl then? Shes only thirteen or fourteen, isnt she? s, bedding down with a man at night, how can she still possibly get married in the future? Shameless. If she were my daughter, Id beat her to death! Maybe she was seduced by someone? Phew, the man was the son of Lord Wong. Why should he seduce her? Whats she got? Then I have no idea. ... There was tittle-tattle among the crowd and some were even following them to the restaurant. Li Hongmei was so ashamed that she felt like locking the door and beating Xiao Baozhu to death. Ye Xiaoxian did not try to stop this because if Xiao Baozhu had just listened to her in the first ce it wouldnt have ended up like this. It was water under the bridge now and they could only wait patiently for Schr Wong to say something to them. If they just wanted to get rid of Xiao Baozhu it would not make any difference even if they went to the Wongs and made a scene. They were only running a restaurant and if Lord Wong wanted to deal with them it would be as simple as turning his hand, then their restaurant could be closed down at anytime. ... Nonsense, how could such things possibly happen in the world? Now I see why you go to that little restaurant all day long. It turns out that its not the female cook you are interested in but her sister-inw. You, youre... Lord Wong picked up the tea cup from the table, hurling it violently at Schr Wong. Immediately the tea was spilled all over Schr Wong. However, he did not retort but just let Lord Wong vent his anger. Schr Wong soon exined. My Lord, truly Young Master did not ask for it. There is a big bump on his head. Obviously he was knocked out and then put in the bed at the lodge. Master has been really wronged. I think this matter was either nned by the Xiaos or by someone else who has it in for us. Lord Wong was so angry that he was rendered speechless for a long while. You tell me, tell me, how am I going to exin this to the Qins now? Youve already exchanged your birthday cards and now what will the Qins think of you? Such a fine potential marriage and itll just end like this? Butler Wong said, My Lord, we dont have to care about the Xiaos. As for the Qins, as long as we dont tell anybody no one will possibly know about this. Nonsense, how will they not know? Just wait and see. It wont take half a day for this matter to spread all over the Qinghe County! Schr Wong was still kneeling down, not making a sound. ... Lord Wong had guessed right. The Qins heard about it just that afternoon. All the Qins sat together and discussed it as an emergency. I heard that either they were tricked by someone or it was the slut of the Xiaos who did it on purpose. The Xiaos are just farmers and used to be poverty-stricken. They recently opened a restaurant in town, but they d never match the Lords son with their ss and status, said Mrs. Qin. Mr. Qin pinched his chin and did not respond. It was hard to tell because any man, being a bit well-off, would rather marry several women. Even he had got several handmaids in his family. Mrs. Qin asked Qin Qingqing who was sitting beside her in a daze, Qingqing, so will you marry that Schr Wong or not? If you dont, well turn down the marriage. Qin Qingqing was not willing to turn it down. From the day she saw Schr Wong from behind the screen she had found him quite cultured and sophisticated, and a man with a particrly rare bearing. She fell for him at first sight and was unwilling not to marry him. Furthermore, ever since she saw him once she had been looking forward to getting married. She somehow felt that it was worth marrying Schr Wong as he was the man who would treat her well. Pa, Ma, I...I still want to marry him. Qin Qingqing blushed and finally spoke her mind. Mrs. Qin then said to Mr. Qin, Pa, then youd better have a good word with the Wongs. If he still wants to marry our Qingqing, he must get rid of that slut of the Xiaos. If he cant get rid of her, she will at most be a handmaid and would not be able to get promoted for five years. A handmaid who was not even a concubine was a maid who served her lord and mistress when they were having sexual intercourse. If Schr Wong called for her, she could do it with them together, but it was unlikely for a man of letters like Schr Wong to do such things. Mr. Qin said, Right, but we can take the initiative and talk to them. We must wait for them toe to us and then we will talk. We cant make the first move now but Ill let them know that we are very angry. Ill send someone to make a statement to them this afternoon. ... Lord Wong was so worried as this marriage was a one in ten thousand opportunity. When he received the message he went to the Qins right away. He could not settle down unless he could persuade the Qins. When he arrived at the Qins they exined how they felt and Lord Wong was relieved. A handmaid was not bad. To be honest, Lord Wong dared not refuse to let Xiao Baozhu into his family. As his son confirmed that this was a myth and the news had been spread around all town, if he did not let Xiao Baozhu in then what would others think of their family? Still, he was not going to let Xiao Baozhu in easily. He had almost reached fifty but ended up getting fooled by such a little girl which made him hold a grudge. Well, you want to get into our family? Ill let you in! Schr Wong epted the Qins opinion and made a gesture that he would treat Qin Qingqing as his own daughter in the future. ... Huh? A handmaid? In the restaurant when Li Hongmei heard that Xiao Baozhu could only make it as a handmaid, she almost burst into tears of grief. Not even a concubine? she asked again to confirm it. In this era, being a concubine was already tough but for a handmaid, she had to do all the chores during the day and serve her master at night, which was such a lowly position. Unless the family was so poor that they almost have to sell their daughter, there was no parent whod wish to see their daughters do such things. She wont be a handmaid. At least make her a concubine or our Baozhu wontjoin your family, said Li Hongmei toughly. Butler Wong sneered. Whatever. Weve given you the chance anyway and its you whove chosen not toe. How will it affect us? We wont anyway! Li Hongmei would rather see others gossip about her daughter than sell her to be a handmaid. Schr Wong was not bothered about persuading them but only said, Its up to you. But Xiao Baozhu was listening from the back the entire time. Hearing that Li Hongmei was going to turn it down she then said earnest, Ma, I want to go. No matter a concubine or a handmaid, as long as I can see Mr. Wong Im satisfied. Baozhu, you...I wont allow you to go. Ma, I want to, no matter what will happen, I really want to go. Ive chosen my own way and no matter what will happen in the future I wont regret it. I beg you, Ma, said Xiao Baozhu sniveling. Baozhu, youre too young. You dont know how bad it could be. When you really get into their family you wont say something like this anymore. As your Ma, my heart aches! Li Hongmei had already cried. Butler Wong felt impatient listening them talking crap. He simply said, Ille back two hourster and by then I only need one answer, yes or no, and Ill go back to report to my lord. ... Li Hongmei exined to Xiao Baozhu patiently about what a handmaid was and conceived what Xiao Baozhu would encounter when she was in the Wong household. Li Hongmei then asked Ye Xiaoxian to persuade her. Just judging by Xiao Baozhus attitude, Ye Xiaoxian knew that she would not be convinced. Little girls were like that. They knew it would bring destruction on themselves, but they would do it anyway. On second thought, Ye Xiaoxian felt that maybe Xiao Baozhu would not lead a terrible life even if she went to be a handmaid. She could think up such a n already at her age, so who could guarantee that she would not rack her brains in scheming? Perhaps she could end up making herself into a wife. Ye Xiaoxian simply said to Xiao Baozhu, Baozhu, you have to be sure. If you dont want to go, Ill sell this restaurant and take Ma and you somewhere where nobody knows us and make a fresh start. By then nobody will know what happened to you and you could still find an ideal husband. I dont want another ideal husband. I only like Mr. Wong. You dont know how I liked him when I first saw him. His figure and his voice are going around and around in my mind. I miss him when I eat meals, I miss him when I sleep and I miss him whatever I do. Now I finally have a chance to get closer to him, please let me go to him and whatever will happen in the future will be my problem. I will never me it on you. Ye Xiaoxian sighed and then said to Li Hongmei. Ma, she cannot be convinced. Chapter 118 - Brother, Have You Ever Fallen in Love With Sister-in-law? Chapter 118: Brother, Have You Ever Fallen in Love With Sister-inw? Trantor: Flying Lines That night, Xiao Baozhu was taken to the Wongs. She was not carried in by pnquins nor did she wear an auspicious red robe. Her only two essories were bought by Li Hongmei. Ye Xiaoxian also gave her two silver ingots, asking her to hide them away safely. As Xiao Baozhu left their door, Li Hongmei kept crying and said to Baozhu that if she suffered much grievance there, she might as welle back. They did not sign a contract to sell her, so if she wanted she could return at anytime. Still, Xiao Baozhu did not listen at all. It was very cold that day and the cold wind was blowing above everyones heads. There were quite a few people gathered around the restaurant who knew of the matter of Xiao Baozhu and came to watch the drama. Shes really going? Tut-tut, shes so young. Is she crazy, dreaming of having a man? Maybe she thinks the Wong Family is great with fine goods and clothes, but doesnt she know that those who enjoys the nice things are the masters. When she marries in, shell be a handmaid which is no difference from a servant. I dont know what shes hoping to benefit from there. Doesnt she have more freedom working at the restaurant? She just needs to do the ounts and take the bills all day long. Maybe shes after the handsome Schr Wong. Li Hongmei looked at the back of Xiao Baozhu, who was resolute in leaving, and could not help her tears rolling down. Baozhu, why are you so foolish? ... Xiao Baozhus n was that when she went to the Wongs she could stay at Schr Wongs side and serve him. She did hold onto wild dreams of Schr Wong falling in love with her and she would be fine so long as she could see him every day. However, Schr Wong did not see Xiao Baozhu at all, let alone sleep with her. He just shut himself inside his room all day long to study. There were a page and a maid by Schr Wongs side. When Xiao Baozhu married in, both the page and the maid despised her. They thought that she made her way into their family through nasty means which were very despicable. Therefore, Xiao Baozhu was tasked with all the dirty and heavy chores in the yard. As Xiao Baozhu had just arrived she was unfamiliar with the surroundings and did not even know where to have meals, so she ate the food brought to her by the page and the maid. The Wongs were a wealthy family but the food for their servants was very simple. It was already a treat if there were a couple of slices of meat in one meal, but when the meal was handed to Xiao Baozhu she found that all of her meat had been taken by the page and the maid. All she could have were several over-cooked vegetables. She was furious but dared not speak out against it. Why did it turn out to be like this? This was not what the novels said. In novels, all the pages and maids are extremely loyal and very adorable. The two servants of Schr Wong were bothzy and liked to steal food. When Schr Wong was present they would lick his boots and fawn over him but once he was not with them they just loafed around and had no consideration of being his servants. When Xiao Baozhu had married in, she only saw Schr Wong twice. She ran towards him the moment she saw him but Schr Wong did not even look at her and moved away to another yard. He apparently despised her very much. Xiao Baozhu could not see Schr Wong and, moreover, she had to do heavy chores everyday which was even worse than living back in the vige and there was noparison with life in the restaurant. When she was in the restaurant she just did the ounting everyday and the meals were great. She could have as much food she wanted. She used to be at most seventy jin and was nurtured by her sister-inw into ny jin. Since then she had started looking like a mature girl. As for the amodation, although the Wongs mansion was splendid, the living conditions of the servants were also in. She had to bunk up with several maids in one room. There was an unwrittenw: The neers are responsible for cleaning. Xiao Baozhu was a neer, so she had to do a lot of work and also was mocked by other maids. I heard that she knocked out the young master so that she could climb into bed with him. Hehe, she should find a mirror and look at herself in it. Who does she think she is. Shes not pretty and has no family background. The young master is going to marry and she still causes such trouble. I wonder what kind of mother could have such a daughter. Maybe her ma is just the same as her. Hearing more gossip, Xiao Baozhu felt even more angry and was on the verge of crying, but she could not do anything about it. Currently the Wongs did not favor her and she also dared not make a scene as she was afraid of being thrown out. When night came she cried silent tears and sometimes cried untilte into the night. She really missed her sister-inw, her mother, Baofeng and even Little Five, Little Six and Xian. Her life back then was so carefree. Why hadnt she cherished it? Although she missed them, once she thought about Schr Wong she did not regret the situation anymore and even felt herself lucky foring here. She thought that she should just take it, as if she had never had such a happy life before. When she was in the vige living under the mercy of the first and third households, hadnt she also had to do heavy chores every day? ... When Xiao Baoshan came back from the dock he heard that Xiao Baozhu had gone to the Wongs. He med Li Hongmei right away, Ma, Baozhu is not sensible. Are you not sensible either? How could you let her go to the Wongs to be a handmaid? I couldnt stop her. Li Hongmei cried as soon as Baozhu was mentioned. Ye Xiaoxian also sighed next to her. Baoshan, it was Baozhus own choice. If you tied her down she would still want to go. Dont me Ma. Li Hongmei then sobbed and told Xiao Baoshan the whole story. Xiao Baoshan was rather furious and clenched his fists tightly. Baozhu has actually done such a thing! Li Hongmei continued to cry. I dont know how Baozhu lives at the Wongs. I went there yesterday and wanted to ask about her condition but the Wongs did not let me in. They said that a handmaid is a servant and servants are only allowed toe back to visit their families on the thirtieth of each month. Xiao Baoshan said with self-reproach, Ma, as her brother, Im the one to me for Baozhu ending up like this. I didnt expect that she could do such a thing! Baoshan, what you just said is like pping my face! Ive eaten and lived with Baozhu all the time and didnt think that shed be like this, and youre her brother. How could you, a man, notice this? Li Hongmei sighed again. If I was more considerate and talked with her more in daily life, maybe it wouldnt have to be like this! ... Li Hongmei was about to me herself again when Ye Xiaoxian spoke up. Ma, Baoshan, dont confuse yourselves anymore. If you have the time for such things, you might as well go to the Wongs to check on her. You can always find a way to get in. Ye Xiaoxian looked at Xiao Baoshan. She knew very well that with Xiao Baoshans skills, whether he was going to see Xiao Baozhu or even sneak into the government house, no one would possibly find out. Surprisingly, Xiao Baoshan understood Ye Xiaoxians suggestion, so he said right away, Right, Ill go then! ... When Xiao Baozhu saw her second elder brother she was sweeping the yard. Xiao Baoshan suddenly appeared in front of her which made her weep tears. All the pain she was suffering showed on her face. Baozhu, leave with me! said Xiao Baoshan. Seeing Xiao Baozhus tears his heart also ache. He did not have to ask and already knew that Xiao Baozhu did not lead a happy life here. Xiao Baozhu, however, pped Xiao Baoshans hand away and said with determination, I wont go! Baozhu, why should you torture yourself? Xiao Baozhus tears rolled down as she said, Brother, you dont understand. None of you understand what it is like to fall in love with someone. I am suffering here but if I leave, Ill still suffer the same. Being here I can at least see him sometimes and hear from others about whether hes well or not. If I leave I wont hear anything about him. Brother, dont force me. No matter how terrible it is living here its my own decision. I wont regret it! Xiao Baoshan felt very sorry for her. Baozhu, will you really not regret it? No, I wont! said Xiao Baozhu, extremely determined. What are you really after? asked Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baozhu smiled scornfully. Brother, youve never really liked Sister-inw, have you? If you really liked her then youd understand my feelings. This time it was Xiao Baoshan who was puzzled. He did not like Little Ye or understand her? The two of them had been in a stalemate for a while. Seeing that Xiao Baozhu was so headstrong he then understood that she would never be persuaded. Even if there were ten oxen here, they wouldnt pull Xiao Baozhu back. He did not feel it was necessary to continue trying to persuade her. This sister of his perhaps had to undergo a lot to understand that what she had chosen was wrong. Whether she would lead a good life or not in the future would simply depend on her fate. On his way back, Xiao Baoshan still thought about that question: Brother, youve never really liked Sister-inw, have you? Dont I? Xiao Baoshan pondered on it and thought that he did like Ye Xiaoxian now. Every time he went sailing he missed her very much. Sometimes he looked at the sky sitting on the deck at night and the starry sky would turn into her smiling face. However, to like someone is not to cling to them, because you have to consider their feelings also. To like her was to make her happy. Would Schr Wong like Baozhu even though she had done all of this? He wouldnt. So, instead of truly liking him, she was in fact just being selfish. If one day Ye Xiaoxian did not want to be with him he would not pester and urge her to stay but let her pursue her own happiness, because the one who could offer her happiness may not be him. ... Seeing Xiao Baoshan return alone, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei knew that he was unable to persuade Baozhu. Ye Xiaoxian knew that it would turn out this way. Girls in their puberty did not listen to others. They could only understand something by getting terribly hurt. Baoshan, hows Baozhu living now? Li Hongmei asked him with red eyes. Xiao Baoshan said, Shes fine. Really? Li Hongmei was not convinced. Shes at least living the way she wants to, said Xiao Baoshan again. Li Hongmei wanted to cry again as Baozhu had really made up her mind about this unpromising journey. Ye Xiaoxian did not feelfortable saying anything. After all, Baozhu was her husbands sister and it was not appropriate for her toment on certain things. If she did, she may sound nosy. She could only give Xiao Baozhu some advice, the next time she saw her, about how she should lead her life in the future. Baoshan, shall I go to the kitchen to cook some dishes for you? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Do you want to eat now orter with the others? Ill eat with the others, said Xiao Baoshan looking at Ye Xiaoxian. There was a fire of affection in his eyes which made Ye Xiaoxian a little self-conscious and she had to evade it. Ever since thest time he came back he had started looking at her in this way, as if she was his prey and he was the hunter. Ye Xiaoxian felt uneasy again. Chapter 119 - Buying A House Chapter 119: Buying A House Trantor: Flying Lines That night when they were about to go to bed, not knowing why, Li Hongmei called Xian to her room. She said that since Baozhu had left she wanted Xian to keep herpany. When Li Hongmei was looking for Xian, she shouted to her at the door of her room. She deliberately made Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan hear her. Ye Xiaoxian thought that what Li Hongmei was doing had an ulterior motive, as if she was trying to create a condition for her and Xiao Baoshan to get together alone. But Ye Xiaoxian was not in the mood after having just experienced the matter of Xiao Baozhu. She did not think that Xiao Baoshan was in the mood either. After Ye Xiaoxian had dinner she just washed up and then went to get ready for bed. When she closed the door, she was just about to take off her clothes and go to bed but she heard a knock at the door. Intuitively, Ye Xiaoxian felt that the one outside was Xiao Baoshan. Her heart suddenly fluttered. What was he doing? Should she let him in? When he came in it would just be the two of them alone in the same room, so what would happen then? Ye Xiaoxian was struggling with what to do when the knocking came again. Ye Xiaoxian did not hesitate for long and went to open the door. Outside stood therge, tall figure of Xiao Baoshan. Against the dark night his eyes looked like stars in the sky. Little Ye, can I have a word? asked Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian thought: Where? Should we chat in the room? What would happen after the chatting? Well, she did not believe that a man and a woman would just chat awayte at night, unless the woman was on her period and the guy was impotent, otherwise something must happen between them. However, Xiao Baoshan pointed up at the roof. Lets chat up there. Well, we can do that. After a while, the two of them flew up to the roof. Once again Xiao Baoshan held Ye Xiaoxian by the waist and flew her up. They sat down and then Xiao Baoshan took off the cloak he was wearing and put it on Ye Xiaoxian. The cloak was still very warm from being on him which produced some subtle chemistry between them. Ye Xiaoxian did not know what to chat about so she rubbed her hands together and blew some warm air on them. Its really cold on the roof. Well, if I knew this earlier I wouldnt havee up here and we might as well have just talked down there. Little Ye, are you cold? asked Xiao Baoshan again. Its alright, Im not that cold, said Ye Xiaoxian. Right. By the way, when you went to see Baozhu, did you also fly to the roof to see her? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan nodded. It can save a lot of trouble. Im also to me for what happened with Baozhu. I actually found out that she likes Mr. Wong long time ago but I didnt take it seriously, just reminded her a bit. I didnt realize she liked him that much and would end up doing this. Ye Xiaoxian said sorrily. Its not your fault. Its Baozhu not being sensible. It must be hard for you managing the restaurant on your own, so you cant attend to everything perfectly. If anything, Im the one to me and should take the responsibility. Youre a man and are not always at home. Why should you take responsibility? We are at home all the time but we still couldnt stop her. Xiao Baoshan sighed slightly. Lets not talk about Baozhu. Little Ye, how are youtely? Baozhus matter is a headache to me, but apart from that Im alright. When news of Baozhu spread, the business of the restaurant had been affected and they lost a lot of customers. Only after the scandal had blown over did their business start recovering. Youve done a good job! said Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan then handed a bag of money to Ye Xiaoxian. This is what Ive madetely and Im giving it to you to look after. The bag of money was heavy. This money has been earned by his hard toil. Ye Xiaoxian took it and weighed it roughly in her hand. It seemed to be more than ten taels of silver. Xiao Baoshan said again, Little Ye, if we have enough money, you and Ma can look around in town for somewhere with a house to let. We can buy a new house so that the whole family wont be cramped together living in the backyard. Ye Xiaoxian said, Yes, I know. Ive been saving some also over the past months and with yours we can afford to buy an ordinary house. The two of them were sitting on the roof for a while longer but there still wasnt any solid progress. Finally Ye Xiaoxian yawned, so Xiao Baoshan carried her down and they then left for their beds. At night, Ye Xiaoxian was lying in bed thinking about the scene just now when she and Xiao Baoshan sat together leaning against one another. It was quite strange as she did not feel anything at the time but every time they came down from the roof she would miss him a bit. She really was slow in love. ... As usual, this time that Xiao Baoshan hade back home he still helped Ye Xiaoxian tend to the fire and did the chores likest time. Sometimes he would look at Ye Xiaoxian quietly. Whenever Ye Xiaoxian spotted his gaze her hand would shake subconsciously which made her get sshed by the oil twice. Ye Xiaoxian was extremely uneasy. She did not expect that Xiao Baoshan, a man as strong as an ox, would be such an introvert when courting a woman. She would rather he just threw her down.It was just that she felt too shy to say it. Luckily Xiao Baoshan only stayed for a couple of days and then left again. After Xiao Baoshan had left, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei went to look for houses whenever they were free. Qinghe County was tiny and they did not have estate agencies or anything in this era, so they could only wait to see if there were any empty houses for sale or if someone might gamble away their house. They went to two ces and were not satisfied. One was too far from the restaurant and the other one looked too old, requiring a lot of time and energy to reconstruct it. One day, Li Hongmei heard from a diner that a house with a small yard was for sale. This house was where a schr used to live. Then the schr was hired to be an official in the provincial capital, so he went there and had also taken his old parents with him, so this house was going to be sold. Li Hongmei asked about it earnestly, so the diner took them directly to see the property. Houses lived by schrs were always more expensive than ones of merchants. The house with a small courtyard was priced at eighty taels of silver, though the yard was very delicate and serene. Ye loved it the moment she saw it. Also, theyout of house was square like a Siheyuan (a historical type of residence that wasmonly found throughout China) and also had five rooms, which would be sufficient to allow them all a room each. One of the rooms was a study still containing a lot of books which had not been moved, so she could let Xiao Baofeng live there. This way he would not have to bunk up with Little Five and Little Six. The rarest thing was that there was a small fish pond in the middle of the yard where several koi were kept. There were also some orchids nted around the fish pond which looked very cultured. When the original owner of the house left he handed the key and the property deed to the diner. Li Hongmei and Ye both saw the deed and also asked someone else to check it to make sure that it could not be counterfeit. Ye Xiaoxian counted the money she had saved together with Xiao Baoshans sry and she found it happened to be just the right amount, eight taels of silver. They then went to find that diner, saying that they were going to buy the house. Many procedures were required to purchase a house in ancient times. They had to go to the government office to register, sign and wait for the schr toe back. It took half a month longer before they finally acquired the house. When Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian moved into the house they quickly got to work tidying it up. The house had been kept in very good condition. It was clean and spacious inside and even the furniture was ssic and elegant. They just needed to move their clothes in. Ye Xiaoxian gave the room towards the east to Li Hongmei and she took a small one towards the west. Xiao Baofeng and Xiao Baoshan had one each and they kept one empty as a guest room. As for Little Five, Little Six and Xian, they were still living in the rooms in the backyard of the restaurant. In this way the owners and the employees did not have to cram together. ... There was also something going on with Xiao Baozhu. Schr Wong had been locking himself away in the study all day long recently but he did not really read many books. What had happened with Xiao Baozhu made him feel terrible and he also had to get married in several days. During this time the whole Wong Family were decorating and busy with his wedding. Sometimes the butler came to him and asked his opinions of, for example, the style of his wedding gown and what kind ofnterns he wanted for the wedding day. He was going to spend the rest of his life with another person so how could he be in the mood for reading books while all he could think about was his marital life. Xiao Baozhu had also gradually lost her faith during this time. When she had first arrived at the Wongs, the family still looked normal. Now, with the wedding day of Schr Wong approaching and rednterns and ribbons being put up everywhere in the family, she still seldom met Schr Wong. The day before yesterday Little Five came to pass on a massage for her, saying that her sister-inw had bought a new house and asked if she would be free toe back or just simply wanted to return home. She almost cried at that time and wondered why she was suffering so much with the Wongs. Women were like this. Sometimes they suffered and toiled away, not to make others feel moved but to feel moved themselves. They preferred suffering even though they had already suffered a lot. When Little Five came back, he told the family about what happened to Baozhu. Including the fact that Baozhu had wasted away. When she left home she was ny jin and now she seemed to be only eighty jin. Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian heard this and it made both of their hearts ache. ... Ye Xiaoxian was anxious about how to go and meet Xiao Baozhu when the Wongs butler came in. Last time, Ye Xiaoxian had cooked the birthday banquet for the tax official which had drawn a lot of peoples attention. They all asked him which chef had prepared the meal. The tax official simply told them that it was Ye Xiaoxian from The Xiaos Cuisine who cooked it. Now the Wongs were going to hold a wedding banquet and Lord Wong had found a lot of cooks, but most of them did not satisfy him. Later on he heard that the tax official had held a birthday banquet which had received many positivements, so he asked Butler Wong to inquire about it. Finally they went to find Ye Xiaoxian. If it had been at another time Ye Xiaoxian would not agree to take this job, but now the price the Wongs offered was handsome, and moreover Xiao Baozhu was also there, so Ye Xiaoxian found it a good opportunity. She quickly agreed. In the blink of an eye the wedding day of Schr Wong had arrived. On that day Ye Xiaoxian came to the Wongs early in the morning. The ingredients had been listed days ago and the Wongs were asked to purchase them. After checking the ingredients she asked the people in charge of the kitchen, Can you ask Baozhu toe and help me? She used to help me a lot with the work back home, Im used to ordering her around. Before long they brought over Xiao Baozhu. Ye Xiaoxian looked at Baozhu, feeling both furious and pitiful. She looked very shabby. It was winter and she did not even have a pair of cotton shoes. Her cotton jacket was also gray and the material was thick and coarse. Furthermore, Baozhu had lost a lot of weight. Ye Xiaoxian could not help but walk towards Xiao Baozhu. Baozhu, youve been acting unreasonably for quite some time. Come home with me tonight! No, I wont! Xiao Baozhu still refused. There were a lot of people in the kitchen and it was not convenient for Baozhu to exin. She said briefly, Sister-inw, dont force me. I can help you do the work but I wont go back with you. You...gosh! Ye Xiaoxian was really powerless and could not force her right now, so she said, Just do the work then. Chapter 120 - Asking Chef Tan yo Take Care of Baozhu Chapter 120: Asking Chef Tan yo Take Care of Baozhu Trantor: Flying Lines The Wong Family was very lively that day. The kitchen was also kept busy and everyone had their hands full. Ye Xiaoxian did not have time to take a break until she had cooked all the dishes and the banquet began outside. She had just stopped working when Schr Wongs maid came looking for Xiao Baozhu, asking Xiao Baozhu if she was finished working here. She wanted Xiao Baozhu back to serve the bride who had already been sent to her wedding room. Xiao Baozhu had been busy for quite a while in the kitchen and had not had a chance to eat any food. Besides, she did not want to do the work of serving the bride. The maid saw that Baozhu was behaving in an undisciplined manner so she then became even more aggressive. If you dont go, then you wont need to eat lunch. We wont bring any for you! Ye Xiaoxian interjected, Baozhu wont go back today. Shell just eat here. Who are you? Can you manage our familys business? The maid saw that Ye Xiaoxian was in in clothes, so she assumed that she must not be a guest attending the wedding banquet, so she red at Ye Xiaoxian. Who I am is not your business! Just leave! Ye Xiaoxian hated such people the most. They were also from lower ss but had to bully someone inferior than them. When they saw someone superior than them they would fawn over them. As expected, seeing Ye Xiaoxian having some conflict with the maid, the cook of the Wongs quickly walked over. The cook was in his thirties, having worked in this family for quite some time, so he had a say in the matter. The cook did not like Ye Xiaoxian at first. He had long heard that for the young masters wedding banquet they would invite a chef from outside. He did not expect that the chef would turn out to be a little girl, so he was not convinced. However, when Ye Xiaoxian disyed her slicing technique in the kitchen, the chef was tempted to kneel in front of Ye Xiaoxian and call her Master. This little girl could actually carve tofu into a flower, slice cucumbers into different shapes to decorate the dishes and garnish the dishes in very delicate ways. Such work could not be done unless one had learned and practiced hard for ten or so years. The chef had been convinced in various ways. He also wanted to learn some tricks from Ye Xiaoxian but Ye Xiaoxian was too busy to mind him, so she was only engaged in her own work. It was almost done and the cook came over, thinking of chatting a bit with Ye Xiaoxian. He did not expect that a lowly maid would have any conflict with Ye Xiaoxian. What happened? What happened? the cook shouted. When the maid saw the chefe over she immediately refrained from showing her cocky attitude. After all, the chef was in a much higher position in this family than her. Chef Tan, Im here to ask Young Masters handmaid to tidy up the yard. The bride has been taken in and it wont do if the handmaid isnt there to serve her, right? Otherwise it would make her feel slighted by our family. Ye Xiaoxian then said to Chef Tan, When I first arrived I told you that Baozhu was here to help me today. Shes been so busy that she hasnt had a chance to even drink any water. Is it reasonable to call her back right now? Will having servants serve on an empty stomach make the bride feel less slighted by your family? Well... The maid still tried to say something. Chef Tan then asked her, Lian, are you trying to ck off? Of course not! Lian said. Ive been... When the bridees she will surely bring her own servants from her parents house. Shell be much more familiar with her own people. Why should you make a handmaid serve her? Just go back by yourself for now. ... The maid looked at Xiao Baozhu then turned to Ye Xiaoxian. Atst she listened to Chef Tan and went back alone. Ye Xiaoxian turned to Chef Tan. Chef Tan, thank you very much. No problem. Chef Tan also looked at Xiao Baozhu. Are you two... Oh, shes my sister-inw. Right... There were only twenty something people in the Wong household. When Xiao Baozhu arrived, all of them knew what she had done. Xiao Baozhu was already aughingstock here. Chef Tan also knew. But, because of Ye Xiaoxian, Chef Tan did not show any loathing and only said, So she turns out to be your sister-inw. Can she cook then? Ye Xiaoxian wanted to teach Xiao Baozhu how to cook but Xiao Baozhu did not appreciate it, so she did not possess this skill either. She knew several dishes like cold jelly, douhua and some other stir-fried dishes. If you want to try out some new dishes you can ask her. If she doesnt know, she cane back to ask me, said Ye Xiaoxian. Sure, thats nice, nice, said Chef Tan. He had been waiting for this. He originally was thinking of asking Ye Xiaoxian to teach him, but since Ye Xiaoxian said first that he could do it via Xiao Baozhu, it would be the same to ask Xiao Baozhu. Ye Xiaoxian also knew that Chef Tan was thinking of asking her to teach him, so in return he would have to take care of Xiao Baozhu for her in this family, which was onlymon sense. The servants in the family also started eating but they would eat together in turns. The time they had for eating was also limited. Everyone would have only ten minutes to eat. As Ye Xiaoxian was not a servant here and her job for today was also done, she could arrange her time freely. She went to take two portions of food. One was for Xiao Baozhu. There were fish and meat in the meal and the rice was also well cooked. Xiao Baozhu did not just eat when she took the meal but looked at the meat on the top. Thinking about it she had not eaten such a big chunk of meat for quite some time. When she began to eat she was like a hungry wolf, tucking in to the meal as if she had not eaten for a long time. Looking at her, Ye Xiaoxian sighed again. She wanted to ask her to go home but also knew that Baozhu would not be persuaded. Ye Xiaoxian shared more meat from her bowl with Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baozhu hesitated and then wanted to cry. Sister-inw, I dont want to go back! Xiao Baozhu ate while crying. Then you dont have to, but you also cant live your life this cowardly. Even a little girl can bully you. What the hell is she! Ye Xiaoxian said to Xiao Baozhu, angry and pitying her cowardice. Xiao Baozhu said, I dont want it either but Mr. Wong did not even look at me. Baozhu, stop pinning your hopes on others. If you really want to live a good life with the Wongs you have to change yourself. You have to keep your chin up and get promoted. How can I get promoted? asked Xiao Baozhu. Seize any opportunity to get promoted. Youre a smart girl and should know how to make use of your chances. For example, you didnt want to tend to the fire in the kitchen but instead you wanted to do the ounting back then. You should think about what you are good at and let others here see your value. They will only think highly of you when you show your capability. If you just leave things like this, Mr. Wong will ignore you and even any servant here will pick on you. Xiao Baozhu looked at Ye Xiaoxian in a daze and then though about her future carefully. Before Ye Xiaoxian left the Wong household, she talked again with Chef Tan. As she knew that Baozhu did not have enough food all day she wanted Chef Tan to take care of her. Chef Tan agreed and said he would spare some meals for Baozhu and she coulde and get them herself. Chapter 121 - Scholar Wong’s Wedding Night Chapter 121: Schr Wongs Wedding Night Trantor: Flying Lines After the wedding banquet the guests of the Wong family gradually left. Schr Wong also went back to his room. As he agreed to marry Qin Qingqing, he could not just cold-shoulder her. Red candles were lit in the room. Qin Qingqing sat on the bed with a red handkerchief covering her head. The bride, wearing phoenix cor and in her glowing wedding robe, looked rather charming at a nce. Schr Wong, however, was thinking about Ye Xiaoxian. If the bride were Ye Xiaoxian, what would it be like? Schr Wong nodded instantly. He should not think this way. He had married someone else so he must forget about Little Ye. Even if he had not got married, he still should not have other thoughts about her. Schr Wong then walked over to the bed and, after some short hesitation, reached out his shaking hand under the brides red handkerchief. Against the bright glow from the red candles the bride lowered her head, looking like a flower dripping with dew. Her profile was beautiful and, as she was brought up in a wealthy family, her skin was fair and looked so pretty that Schr Wong started having feelings for her. In fact, most men in the world were affectionate but not loyal. They could fall in love with many girls and love them at the same time. They could treat all the girls with equal affection but they also would differentiate their wives from their lovers. Schr Wong admired Ye Xiaoxian but he clearly knew that his current wife was Qin Qingqing. Besides, Schr Wong was also a normal man. Some men would still y around with so called soul mates when they already had wives back at home, and now with a delicious wife sitting in front of him, how could he hold it back anymore? So, they made love together as naturally as water flows. After consummating their marriage Schr Wong felt as if he had opened a door to a new world. Besides, Qin Qingqing looked quite pretty and was a conservativedy which made Schr Wong unable to control himself. They had a sleepless night, not falling asleep until early morning and not waking up until midday. In this era, the newly-married daughter-inw had to wake up early to serve tea to her parents-inw. Lord Wong and Mrs. Wong had been waiting for quite some time and still did not see the two of theme over. They then sent a nanny to call them. The nanny came back after a short while, saying that she could not wake them up and dared not to make too much noise in case she startled them. Lord Wong was surprised and pleased. He quickly said, Since you couldnt wake them up, you dont have to. Just let them sleep. Young couples are like this. He was also experienced so of course he understood. Mrs. Wong said that she understood also. The young couple did not arrive until almost lunchtime. Qin Qingqing was very self-conscious. When she walked out of her room the family servants looked at her with stealthy smiles. They must beughing at her getting up sote. It was Schr Wong who was to me. He looked rather delicate and polite but whod expect that when he got down to business he could be that vigorous. ... When they went to serve tea to Schr Wongs parents, Lord Wong and Mrs. Wong looked at Qin Qingqing who was very pretty and also obedient, so they were overjoyed. They also found that Qin Qingqing looked rather tired with dark circles under her eyes. They asked the kitchen to quickly cook some ginseng soup, generously offering her the ginseng which they had preserved for a long time. As for Schr Wong and Qin Qingqing, although they only spent one night together they were already inseparable, as if they were a couple who had known each other for years. They actually began to do everything together in the family. Schr Wongs dream and ambition had faded because of Qin Qingqing. With a young and beautiful wife by his side he did not even want to read his books. It was not that he did not want to pass the examination anymore, but once he experienced such things he could not control himself to some extent. Sometimes he wanted to read books, but each time Qin Qingqing called him to the room, hed hear her soft voice and would lose his attention, so all he would then do was to cuddle his little bride and have fun. As for Xiao Baozhu, she was almost forgotten by Schr Wong. Schr Wong was like that. He would not have things which did not belong to him. If you forced him to have them, he would feel more uninterested and just keep even more distance from them. Looking at Schr Wong and Qin Qingqing being in love and so affectionate with each other, Xiao Baozhu feltpletely dispirited and in pain. He was not uninterested in women but simply not interested in her particrly. He could cold-shoulder her all day long but devote himself to apanying the other woman. Every time she saw Schr Wong and Qin Qingqing walking by hand-in-hand, her heart felt as if it had been cut by a de. The news of Xiao Baozhu had also spread to the vige, but the version was totally different from the one in the town. What? Baozhu actually married into an upper-ss family? Wong Mudans eyes were popping out. Chen Ju was also surprised. Baozhu can marry into a wealthy family? Thats shocking. In the past Baozhu was just...well, who would expect this. She was just a wild girl. I thought she would be lucky to marry Wong the cripple. She has no dowry and isnt good-looking. Wong Mudan snorted. So, fortune will favor people in turns. Now she gets the good fortune but maybe Ill get it someday also. It will happen anyway. Chen Ju then asked Wong Mudan, Can we go to visit her? Wong Mudans eyes lit up. To visit her is a great idea. We havent been to any upper-ss family before. If we visit her, we can get to know them, cant we? Xiao Tieshu brought the news about Xiao Baozhu back. Xiao Tieshu also heard it from Xun Wenda. Xun Wenda was also not entirely sure about it and had heard it somewhere else. He held a grudge against Ye Xiaoxian, so he went to Xiao Tieshu to tell him in a jealous way. Xiao Tieshu had been working in the government office for quite a long time and had not had many opportunities for promotion. In this era, they did not emphasize professional performance and besides, he didnt have many achievements either. The fact that he wanted to get promoted was just pure daydreaming. Thus, he also wanted to cling to some wealthy and powerful people. If he got assistance from powerful people then perhaps his superior would think highly of him. Xiao Tieshu said again. But I heard that Baozhu is only a concubine in that country gentlemans family. A concubine? Chen Ju and Wong Mudan looked at each other. Wong Mudan said, A concubine is alright. Concubines in wealthy families only suffer a little at the beginning. When they have a son afterwards, their status is promoted very quickly. Chen Ju also said, Right, being a concubine is better than marrying an ordinary man as a wife. Just look at us, arent we wives? Were still worked to death and are busy all day long. Wong Mudans tiny eyes were rolling up and down. I also heard that a concubine also has people to serve her. They will even empty her toilet for her. What did Baozhu do right in her previous life? Oh, if our Baoxue could marry that well, itd be perfect. A concubine is just alright, anyway she wont be worried about food. When she has a child in the future, she will have a nanny to help her and will not have to get up in the middle of the night to change diapers. She just needs to pamper her child when shes free and usually she just needs to embroider in her room. ... Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu listened to the women expressing and changing their envious ideas and they were almost going crazy with rage. They were obviously mocking them for being incapable. But if they were actually capable, why would they have married these two? They would have marrieddies in the town. Nevertheless, they could now go to the town and get to know some wealthy rtives. Chapter 122 - The Xiaos Visit Baozhu Chapter 122: The Xiaos Visit Baozhu Trantor: Flying Lines The next day both the first and second household of the Xiaos each took a chicken, having also prepared two jins of pork, and then went to the town. When they arrived in town they went to Lord Wongs house. As they reached the gate of the house Wong Mudan was surprised. Gee, this is what I call an upper-ss family. There are also two stone lions in the front of the gate. Look at the tall walls and the big house! This is a house with a real yard, isnt it? The walls of our yard are made of fences and theirs are made of real bricks and tiles. Chen Ju also stood there stunned and then said, Sister-inw, Baozhu has indeed married into wealth. But will it be that she doesnt want to recognize us, her poor rtives, anymore? Impossible. Were a family after all. blood is thicker than water so how could somebody not recognize their own rtives? Xiao Tieshu then went to knock at the door. It didnt take long before a servant came out and asked them what they wanted. Xiao Tieshu said that they were here to look for Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baozhu? The servant had not remember this name yet. She is the one who married your young master as a concubine days ago, said Xiao Tieshu with a smiling face. The servant did not remember until now. As soon as he mentioned Xiao Baozhu he showed a disgusted face. Oh, that one. What do you want from her? Im her elder uncle and these are her third uncle, third aunt and elder aunt, said Xiao Tieshu. The servant noticed that there were a bunch of people standing behind who also had two chickens and a small chunk of pork with them. He then asked, Are you here visiting? Yes, we havent seen Baozhu for a long time. When she got married we didnt know and havent given her any gifts, so we are now bringing two chickens for her to eat... Xiao Tieshu had not finished but the door was shut with a thump. The whole Xiao family were stunned on the spot. They had no idea what had happened. The servant shut the door and went to tell Butler Wong that the Xiaos hade and wanted to see Xiao Baozhu. He also asked Butler Wong if they coulde in. Butler Wong had worked for the Wongs for such a long time that he had met various people. He knew all the tricks that people yed even without looking. Humph, another bunch of people who are here trying to cling up to the upper-ss through their rtives. Didnt they want to see Xiao Baozhu? Then he would let Xiao Baozhu go out to see them. ... The Xiaos were still waiting outside and didnt know whether they should go back or continue to wait here. Wong Mudan said, Why should they be like that? Cant they just let us know if we can see her or not. They just leave us here like we are beggars. Chen Ju said, Were not beggars. Our husbands are working in the government office. Talking of backgrounds, ours are far better than most of the vigers. Why should they look down on us? The two women had done themselves up today. Wong Mudan fished out the outfit she wore the day she got married. Although the outfit was way too small for her now and squeezed her fat together, she thought it looked very ttering, making her look like a plump richdy. Chen Ju followed suit. In order to make herself look younger, she ced a lot of chrysanthemums in her hair. Her head was now covered with chrysanthemums. After another while the door opened and their hopes lifted again. It was the servant again. He asked, Are you here to see Xiao Baozhu? Follow me. The Xiaos looked at each other and became excited. They were finally able to go to the Wongs to see Baozhu. When they were about to go in through the front gate the servant shut the door again. ... The Xiaos did not know what the servant was up to. Although the servant closed the door he shut himself out also. He then said to the Xiaos, Follow me. So...they did not go in through the front door? Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu had been hanging out with people in town for a long while and knew the rule of the upper-ss: When the upper-ss people greet their guests, if they are important guests of the masters, they will of course enter through the front gate and be weed by the masters in person. However, if the guests have a much lower social status they have to enter via a small back door. The people who enter from the back door wont be guaranteed to see the master. As expected, they walked a long way to a smallne where there was a small steel door. Xiao Baozhu was waiting there. When she saw her elder and third uncles, Xiao Baozhu was also surprised. Why are those people here? The servant took the two chickens and the pork chunk from the hands of Wong Mudan and Chen Ju and added, If you want to chat, make it quick. Xiao Baozhu, you only have a quarter of an hour. Dont keep your work waiting. Xiao Baozhu nodded and then replied carefully, I see! The other Xiaos saw this and were all shocked. Isnt Baozhu the young mistress here? Why does she listen to a servant? Shes not a concubine? Or is a concubines status that low in this family? Elder uncle, third uncle, elder aunt, third aunt, howe you are here? asked Xiao Baozhu. Wong Mudan could not hold it back anymore and said first, Oh, Baozhu, you...I heard that you married into a wealthy family, so were here to visit you, but why do you look like someone who isnt respected? What on earth are you doing in there? Arent you a concubine? But being a concubine shouldnt be like this, should it? You have to take orders from a servant. Xiao Baozhu realized why they came. She smiled bitterly. Elder aunt, third aunt, Im not a concubine here, Im just a servant. Im sorry that you built your hopes up for nothing. They had also wasted two chickens and two jins of pork. Chen Ju asked, But why should you be a servant in there? Doesnt your sister-inw own a restaurant in town? Shes making plenty of money and you can do a lot of other things, right? Why would you rather be a servant here? Xiao Baozhu gave a bitter smile again. This is my fate, I guess. Uncles, maybe you have heard some rumors and were convinced that I led a well-to-do life here and wanted to get to know your wealthy rtive, but Im sorry that I have to let you down as I do not yet have such skills. Xiao Tieshu was also very disappointed looking at the poverty-stricken Xiao Baozhu. She looked much worse thanst time he saw her and he could tell that she was doing manualbor in there. Xiao Tieshu then asked, You dont have the ability now but will you have it in the future? Xiao Baozhu said, Who knows? Anyway, I thank you all for thinking highly of me. Im not sure what will happen in the future! After Xiao Baozhu finished talking, she went back behind the steel door and closed it. She bowed to them before leaving. Im leaving you for now then. Have a nice day, everyone. ... On the way from the back door to the courtyard Xiao Baozhu encountered a lot of mockery and taunting. Some of them spoke loudly on purpose. Those people in her family really think shes here as a mistress. Humph, those blind fools, so embarrassing. Maybe they were justing to see her? Are you kidding, if theyre that kind then they should take her back so that she wont suffer here anymore. Now our young master and young mistress are getting along so well that Young Master wont eveny an eye on her. She can only be a servant here for the rest of her life. ... Xiao Baozhu felt her heart ache. When she got back to the yard the maid called her to wash clothes saying that they had been changed by the young mistress. Xiao Baozhu could not say no. While she is washing the clothes she saw Qin Qingqinging out from inside. Qin Qingqing brought a maid from her own home who was called Cui. Cui was lively and a social person, so although they had onlye here for several days, she had heard all about Xiao Baozhus story and figured out Xiao Baozhus background as well. Cui was very loyal to herdy, so every time she saw Xiao Baozhu she would said phew to her in a despising way. Now Cui followed Qin Qingqing toe out and said phew again. Someone thought that she could get Young Masters affection just by seducing him in a nasty way, but she didnt expect that, did she? Since she came, our young master hasnt evenid his eyes on her but shes still dawdling here. What a cheap slut. Xiao Baozhu added some strength and almost tore apart the clothes she was washing. She hurriedly flipped it to the other side and kept washing as if nothing had happened. Qin Qingqing then said to Cui, Cui, dont talk this way. Shes also a sister, dont sow discord between you and others. Sister? Miss, are you in a daze? Who wants to be sisters with that kind of person? Youd love to but I wouldnt. Qin Qingqing said, I didnt mean you. I mean her and me, perhaps well be sisters in the future. That day will nevere! Its too early to tell. Xiao Baozhu raised her head and looked at Qin Qingqing who actually smiled at her. There was no sarcasm in her eyes. She just looked gentle, tender and as beautiful as a fairy. Xiao Baozhu did not dare to look back at such a pair of eyes, so she turned away and kept washing the clothes. ... In The Xiaos Cuisine. That day, a middle-aged man came into the restaurant. Li Hongmei went to serve him but the man did not order anything to eat. He only said that he was here too look for the cook. What can I do for you? asked Li Hongmei. Are you the owner here? Im the owners mother-inw, said Li Hongmei. Then the guy imed that he was from the Chamber of Commerce. He said that he heard that the cook here had cooked a birthday banquet for others which was highly reviewed and her slicing skill was also superb. He hoped that if she was free she could go to the capital to participate a cooking contest. Although this was not the heyday of this dynasty, still, it was not a war-torn era with famine throughout the county. The lives of themon people were alright, so there were quite a few activities among the folk, such as a cooking contest, embroidery contest, calligraphy contest, poetry readings and so on. The middle-aged man did not meet Ye Xiaoxian in the end but only left an invitation for her. He said that if she was going to participate, she could take the invitation and go to the capital to register. Back in the kitchen Ye Xiaoxian was engaged in cooking, so when she looked at the invitation she was not that interested and tossed it away. She did not take the invitation and read it through until the night-time. As she had been here for some time she could now read the traditional Chinese and also write a little. After she read it she felt that actually she could just make an appearance there, because on the one hand, she could meet more helpful people and on the other hand, she could learn more local dishes. Four or five days before the contest began, in order to go to the capital Ye Xiaoxian had been making Li Hongmei and Xian study hard in improving their cooking skills so that they could rece her. Li Hongmei was thinking of taking Little Five along to the capital because, firstly, Little Five is a guy who could be used as her bodyguard and secondly, he could do some chores for her. However, one day before she left, Xiao Baoshan returned. Hearing that Ye Xiaoxian was going to the capital Xiao Baoshan immediately offered to go with her. Chapter 123 - You Are Husband And Wife? Chapter 123: You Are Husband And Wife? Ye Xiaoxian gave some thought to it and then decided to let Xiao Baoshan apany her. Bringing Xiao Baoshan along, she at least did not have to worry about her personal safety. To get to the provincial capital city, they needed to go to the dock and take a ferry. On the day they were due to set out, Xiao Baoshan took Ye Xiaoxian to the dock. Quite a few men there knew Xiao Baoshan. Seeing him take a girl along some began to whistle at him. Baoshan, finally youre taking a girl to go sailing. This was a kind of bad habit of some sailors. Some of the sailors could not put up with the loneliness and were afraid of being found out by their fierce wives, so they would take one or two women like widows from other ces or some old and unpopr hookers. Those hookers were cheap and nobody would care even if they had been away for days. Hearing these people taunting Xiao Baoshan, how could Ye Xiaoxian not know what they meant. Still, she pretended that she did not know. Baoshan, what did they say? Why dont I understand? What does finally youre taking a girl to go sailing mean? Xiao Baoshan said, They usually take some. What about you? You didnt? Youre the first one. Oh, I mean, youre not that kind, said Xiao Baoshan. What kind am I then? urged Ye Xiaoxian. Youre my wife. Youre not any kind. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Xiao Baoshan did not bother himself with this mockery and just protected Ye Xiaoxian, boarding a passenger ship to the provincial capital. Ye Xiaoxian found that taking Xiao Baoshan with her was a wise decision. As Xiao Baoshan was familiar with staff aboard the ship, they had been given two nice seats inside, so they did not have to sit on deck and bear the cold wind. Ye Xiaoxian seldom traveled by ferry. She did not get motion sickness but would feel dizzy being on a ship. Perhaps it was because there were many people in thepartment. There was no cold wind inside but it was also sealed. Some people took all kinds of dried food on board like dried fish, smoked bacon and so on. Xiao Baoshan noticed that she looked a little drowsy and tapped her shoulder, suggesting that she lean on his shoulder to take a rest. Ye Xiaoxian did not try to be polite and refuse it as it was time for her to make use of her husband. After she leaned on his shoulder, Ye Xiaoxian closed her eyes and quickly drifted off to sleep. The ship suddenly rocked which rmed Ye Xiaoxian and she sat still all of a sudden, asking Xiao Baoshan, Whats wrong? What happened to this ship? Xiao Baoshan looked at Ye Xiaoxians chin and suddenly smiled. He then raised his hand and wiped her drool away for her. This ship is fine. Its docking now. Ye Xiaoxian: ... Passengers were walking out in turn. Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan also walked out. She only now felt embarrassed. It was okay for her to sleep soundly but why should she drool? When they got outside Xiao Baoshan asked Ye Xiaoxian, Are you still dizzy? Ye Xiaoxian shook her head. Im okay now. I perhaps did not rest wellst night. I feel fine after taking a nap just now. You sleep really soundly, Xiao Baoshan said. Ye Xiaoxian once again felt her face was burning. ... There were far more people in the provincial capital than in the town. When Ye Xiaoxian walked along the street she was constantly having to make way for others walking towards her. There were more horse-drawn carriages and ox-drawn carts. If she did not avoid them carefully she may easily get knocked down. Xiao Baoshan saw that Ye Xiaoxian was having difficulty and he quickly walked to her side, protected and escort her with his tall and towering figure. It was really strange because it was Ye Xiaoxian who avoided bumping into others before but since Xiao Baoshan walked behind her, others began avoiding bumping into them. There are so many people in the provincial capital, said Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan said, Yes, there are. There are already so many people here. It must be even more crowded in the capital city, right? asked Ye Xiaoxian. In this dynasty, it was almost like the modern era. It was ranked from capital, provincial capitals, counties to viges. The provincial capitals were also called counties. Xiao Baoshan said, The capital...perhaps. When he said this he did not look at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian somehow felt that he seemed to have been to the capital before. He dodged her eyes as if he was trying to avoid something. Xiao Baoshan was in charge of asking for directions. After a serious of inquiries they finally found their way to Wufu Restaurant. This cooking contest was hosted by the Wufu Hotel. Ye Xiaoxian went to hand the register card to them. The manager of the hotel looked at Ye Xiaoxian and then at Xiao Baoshan. He did not think either of the two standing there looked like a chef. The manager checked the register card thoroughly and rubbed the red stamp on it. It was somehow indeed the register card given out by their hotel. As they had the register card, he had no reason for not letting them check in because this time the cooking contest only recognized the card instead of the people. Which county are you from? asked the manager. Qinghe, Ye Xiaoxian, said Ye Xiaoxian. Are you two husband and wife? the manager further asked. Yes. As youre husband and wife Ill give you one room, said the manager inly. Can we have two? Ye Xiaoxian said. He and I have only got engaged and arent married formally. They were sleeping separately back home and it would make her uneasy to sleep with him here. The manager said, Our hotel provides amodation for you for free. One register card only covers one room. There are no extras. What if we pay more? asked Ye Xiaoxian. It still wont be possible. Or one of you can stay here and the other one will have to go out and look around. Perhaps you can book a room somewhere else, but I tell you what, its still not very likely. Its almost new year now and the city is packed. I cant guarantee youll find an empty room. Ye Xiaoxian was still thinking but Xiao Baoshan walked over and said, Well take one room then. Thank you. Ye Xiaoxian did not know what to say. After they checked in and walked upstairs Ye Xiaoxian still felt nervous. One room...they were never that intimate before, even back home. Although they had a new house in town they still lived in separate rooms. Now Xiao Baoshan offered to sleep in the same room with her, so she wondered what was on his mind? If he wanted to consummate she guessed she had to agree since after all he was her spouse. Ye Xiaoxian did not feel relieved until they walked in the room. It turned out that in such a hotel of the provincial capital there were two big beds the room, ced in the shape of the number 7. Ye Xiaoxian firstly threw her bag on one of the beds and said, Ill take this one then. After she threw it she realized Xiao Baoshan was about to speak but said nothing. Ye Xiaoxian thought to herself if she had terminated all the possible happenings. What she meant just now was so obvious that she did not want to sleep with him and only wanted to sleep alone. How awkward... Luckily, after Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan settled down, an attendant of the hotel came to them and gave her a recipe. They were required to cook three courses for this contest. One course was apulsory one from the host; Pearl and Emerald Soup. The second course was pork belly, which they could prepare in their own way, as long as the ingredient was pork belly. The third was a dessert which was at the discretion of the chef. The ingredients were not limited, as long as the judges were satisfied and found it tasty. The contest began the following morning but the participants could prepare their ingredients now if they needed. Ye Xiaoxian did not have time to deal with Xiao Baoshan. She only thought about the contest for tomorrow. As for the dessert, due to the limitations she decided to bake a chiffon cake. As long as she managed the fire well she could bake it with an iron wok. As for the Pearl and Emerald Soup, the pearl and emerald actually referred to white and green vegetables but it was not sufficient to use only vegetables. Meat was needed also. Most of the others would choose pork balls to be the pearls but Ye Xiaoxian was thinking of using fish balls. For the pork belly, she might as well make a Braised Pork Belly with Taro. All these meats had to be prepared in advance but not too early, otherwise they would go off. Ye Xiaoxian decided to get anything she could buy. She could buy meat the next morning. She had enough time anyway. ... Ye Xiaoxian was going shopping and naturally she had to take Xiao Baoshan along. Ye Xiaoxian did not have much sense of direction, especially whening to a big city such as this. All the construction styles in the provincial capital were simr with ck bricks and tiles. There were many stall keepers and vendors and fewer rules. One could find every kind of thing sold there. In this case, Ye Xiaoxian found every street of the city looked simr. Without Xiao Baoshan she would surely get lost while wandering around. Xiao Baoshan then said, There were many snacks in the city. Do you want something to eat? Ye Xiaoxian looked around and then said, Then, I want some of the rice noodles. The two of them went inside the eatery and asked for two bowls of noodles. Ten coins each and the bowls were huge. Ye Xiaoxian reckoned that she could not finish the whole bowl herself, so she shared half of it with Xiao Baoshan. She was quitefortable acting this way, as if he was someone intimate with her. After they finished eating the noodles they wandered elsewhere. They mainly looked for where the fish and vegetables were being sold and inquired when the sellers woulde around. If they came a bitte Ye Xiaoxian would get the ingredients ready tonight. These grocery sellers assured Ye Xiaoxian, saying that they always opened up shop early in the morning and closed up after dark. They woulde to sell food ingredients before the day began. Ye Xiaoxian just bought some seasonings and a new kitchen knife. Chefs were picky about their knives. They had to use the ones they were familiar with. The sharpness and weight had to suit their touch and only in this way would the knife be handy. When they came back to the hotel they saw some others eating meals on the first floor. Just as Ye Xiaoxian came inside, they asked, Is this couple also here for the contest? The manager said, Thats right. Dont you see theyve got a kitchen knife? Oh, youve already got your ingredients? What did you buy? a short guy among them asked. Ye Xiaoxian answered, Just some seasonings. Let us have a look, will you? said the short guy. Ye Xiaoxian smiled politely. Im sorry but this is a private recipe and its not convenient to show others. Huh, are your recipes a heritage from your ancestors? Which of your ancestors, eh? the short guy again asked. Ye Xiaoxian just smiled and followed Xiao Baoshan to go upstairs. The short guy mumbled, They bother me. Theyre guarding their recipes so closely. He then asked others, Youve all prepared your ingredients? Chapter 124 - Regulating the Meridians Chapter 124: Regting the Meridians Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio When Ye Xiaoxian went back to the room she firstly put her ingredients in order and then looked through the courses she were going to cook for tomorrow. Xiao Baoshan then fetched a book and read it quietly in bed. After Ye Xiaoxian finished her work she unexpectedly felt a bit bored. There was not much entertainment in this era. Apart from a box of Chinese chess there was nothing in the room. However, Ye Xiaoxian did not know how to y Chinese chess. Seeing Xiao Baoshan reading she then asked him, What are you reading? Xiao Baoshan said, A medical book about the meridian system. You also read that kind of book? Youre interested in medical books? Its just that Im not busy with anything. Just to kill time. Ye Xiaoxian felt rather amused and smiled in her heart. Others would kill time by reading romantic novels but he killed time by reading a medical book. He was such a nice diligent young man. What is the medical book about? Regting the meridians? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan said, Yea, its mainly about regting. My shoulder has been really sore recently. Do think maybe the meridians are blocked? Can you help me to regte them? asked Ye Xiaoxian yfully. Xiao Baoshan put the book down and looked at Ye Xiaoxian with aplicated look. But he soon agreed and nodded. Ill give you a press then. Ye Xiaoxian finally understood the meaning of his look because it required physical contact. She felt a little awkward all of a sudden. It was already awkward enough to stay in the same room and now they had to touch. Still, she had already said it, so she had to toughen up and let him press her. Ye Xiaoxian pretended to put up a calm look. Xiao Baoshan came over, looked at Ye Xiaoxian and said. Better, erm, lie down on your stomach. Lie down on the bed? Ye Xiaoxian then took off her shoes, went up to the bed and knelt down. Xiao Baoshan did not know what to say. Ye Xiaoxian looked at him. When she came back to her senses her blushed terribly. He meant for her to lie down t instead of kneeling. Her pose was provocatively sensual. She hurriedlyy down t and buried her face between her hands. Then Xiao Baoshan began massaging her. His hands were thick and strong but the pressure was just right. Also, his hands were warm. Ye Xiaoxian could feel the warmth of his palms even with clothes on. He was pressing her shoulder and her back. Some parts felt sore and other ces felt veryfortable. Xiao Baoshan exined to her, The sore spots are ces where the meridians are blocked. Thefortable ces are clear. Youre cooking in the kitchen all the time and always keep the same position, so those spots are blocked. Whats the solution? asked Ye Xiaoxian. You need to stretch regrly, said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian replied with, Mhmm. Her body hadpletely rxed and she felt unwilling to ask him to stop, so she was still lying still. Xiao Baoshan had really behaved. He said that he would press her shoulder and back, so he did press only those two areas and did not trespass even one inch to other ces. Ye Xiaoxian was the kind of person who would shrink away when facing others courting but if others were still like the surface of ake, she would throw a pebble in it to cause some water to ssh. She said, Baoshan, my legs are also sore. Press them for me as well. Xiao Baoshan hesitated briefly and then started massaging Ye Xiaoxians legs. He also behaved. Ye Xiaoxian then thought: Such a well-behaved man. If she doesnt take the initiative, will he just wait forever? Xiao Baoshan had been massaging her well, so Ye Xiaoxian closed her eyes involuntarily. She then felt drowsy and fell asleep. Until she felt she was carried up by someone, she shuddered, opened her eyes rmed and found herself being in the arms of Xiao Baoshan. You... Ye Xiaoxian thought he was an honest man. But on second thought, she was still his wife, so whatever he did wouldnt be considered going too far, would it? However, Xiao Baoshan said, I saw you fall asleep lying on your stomach and was afraid your limbs would get numb and your chest would feel tight when you woke up, so I was thinking of turning you over. So that exined it. Ye Xiaoxian flipped over and looked at him lying on her back. Chapter 125 - He Has Become Her Man Chapter 125: He Has Be Her Man Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio When the two pairs of eyes met, Xiao Baoshan was rather surprised as he did not expect that Ye Xiaoxian would look at him so boldly. At that moment Ye Xiaoxian had an impulse to give everything to him. They were husband and wife anyway, and, furthermore, in this era the possibility of her remarrying would be zero. As for Xiao Baoshan, if nothing else, judging by his characteristics he would be a good husband and father in the future. Moreover, Xiao Baoshan was a rather decisive man. He would tenaciously do whatever he though was right. When they were previously just a couple in name only, he had already treated her as his wife devotedly and let her take care of his money. If they were about to be a real couple, his heart would be tied to her tightly. She said to Xiao Baoshan, Baoshan, the bed is quite big. Why dont...you sleep with me tonight. Xiao Baoshan understood Ye Xiaoxians meaning. At that moment the force umted in his body burst out like a volcanic eruption. He held Ye Xiaoxian down, panted and asked her, Little Ye, youve really made up your mind? Ye Xiaoxian closed her eyes, gesturing that she was ready. Xiao Baoshan observed Little Ye underneath him thoroughly. She closed her eyes and looked extremely beautiful lying on the bed quietly. He thought that he himself had been a fool in the past. He had got an unpolished jade by his side this whole time but did not know it, which was why that he had suffered a lot outside. He reached out his trembling hands to untie Ye Xiaoxians belt. Ye Xiaoxian felt that his movement was extremely slow and light and because of this her body could not help shaking. When Xiao Baoshan was about to take off her outerwear there suddenly came a knock at the door. Who is it? Xiao Baoshan asked harshly. At the same time he was also kind of put off. Why didnt this persone either earlier orter? Why now at this particr moment? The person outside said, Im also a chef. Well, arent we going to attend to the contest tomorrow? Id like to know how you are preparing? Judging by the voice, it should be the short guy they saw in the hall of the hotel when they came back. Xiao Baoshan said annoyed, Sorry, its not convenient now! Well, were in same industry anyway. Shall we just change some ideas? Also I know where you can buy fresh and cheap ingredients. I can let you know. Xiao Baoshan looked at Ye Xiaoxian beneath his body and asked her thoughts with his eyes. Ye Xiaoxian had also been put off. She had already summoned up her courage was going to give herself away to Xiao Baoshan, but who would expect that someone woulde to disturb them at that time. Her courage had nearly been used up, so she had no option but to say, Baoshan, just open the door and see what he is up to. Xiao Baoshan got up and also felt unwilling. Ye Xiaoxian tidied up her clothes. While she tidied herself up she smelled a tiny bit of sweat. They had traveled by ferry for such a long time and also had been out for a while but had not showered yet. Although it was still winter, she would smell of sweat a bit in the moist southern area. That was why the southerners had to shower everyday. Ye Xiaoxian thought: Luckily someone came, so she can take a showerter and wait until dark....and then do it. ... Xiao Baoshan let the short guy in. The short guy looked around the room and found there were only them two. He then chuckled. Are you husband and wife? You must have just got married. Have I interrupted something just now? Xiao Baoshan did not want to listen to his mumbling, so he only asked, What on earth do you want? The short guy said, To be honest, Im the chef from Heng. Im extremely famous in Heng and our people there mainly eat fish. I can turn a fish into a hundred different dishes. But theres only one thing...I dont know how to make that damn dessert, so Id like to ask you how to do desserts? Ye Xiaoxian raised her eyebrows. Before you knocked at our room, you must have asked everyone else, havent you? No one agreed to teach you? No, nobody. The short guy smiled cheekily. But why are you so sure that well teach you? You and your husband just look like good people. We people from Heng not only know how to cook fish but also know fortune telling by face reading. Miss, you look kind and generous. Your face is that of a Buddha, and Sir, youre really tall, tall...andr..rge...and strong. Xiao Baoshan was staring at this short guy sharply which made him so scared that he could not speak properly. Ye Xiaoxian said, Nonsense, everyone who knows me says I have the face of a fox. She now had a tiny oval face and a pair of phoenix eyes. When she looked at herself in the mirror she found herself looking rather foxy. The short guy said, The face reading in our town is not only about looks. As an old saying goes, the beauty of a girl lies in her bones, not her skin. Others tell fortunes by judging the surface of a person but we look through peoples heart because the face is the mirror of a persons heart. Ye Xiaoxian burst intoughter. Enough, you just want to make desserts, dont you? Ill write a recipe for you. You just follow the recipe and you wont make any mistakes. There was a brush and ink in the room, so Ye Xiaoxian took the paper and the brush, dipped it into the ink and quickly wrote down a recipe for making a course of thick taro ball soup. The short guy looked at the recipe and then at Ye Xiaoxian with some suspicion. Ye Xiaoxian said, If you believe in me, you just follow my method. If you dont, feel free to turn to others. I can do loads of desserts and dont care to give any of them to others. The short guy thanked Ye Xiaoxian. Reciprocally he said to Ye Xiaoxian in a low voice, reminding her, Miss, theres something I have to remind you about. Ive knocked on all the doors just now, right? I heard that those guys from Meng n to damage others good ingredients tomorrow morning. If youve bought some already, one of you must stay here to guard them. Never leave them alone. Are those people from Meng that evil? asked Ye Xiaoxian. The short guy frowned. Ivee here to attend to the contest for three years. Every year there would be various idents happening. This year is not that bad, however, we have to make desserts this time. Its really a setback for rough folk like us. Well, I wont upy your time any longer. Im going back to study the recipe. ... The short guy left and the room became quiet once again. After such a disturbance Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian had been prevented from a certain kind of sensation so far. It was just a bit awkward between them. As expected, it required a certain atmosphere to do that kind of thing. Under particr conditions, once dry wood and fierce fire met they would ignite immediately, but if there was no atmosphere, it would be useless even if the wood and the fire burned down into charcoal. Ye Xiaoxian sat on the bed and said to Xiao Baoshan, Baoshan, its my first time living in a hotel. Do you know what to do if I want to wash myself? Ye Xiaoxian had watched period dramas before. When they lived in a hotel or a lodge, someone would carry a big basin and put it on the floor in the room. Xiao Baoshan said, We need to ask the attendant. Wait here a moment and Ill call for someone. It did not take long before some of the attendants of the hotel came in. One of them was carrying a big basin and the others carried hot water, all of which was chargeable. It cost fifty coins to take a bath. It equaled around fifty modern yuan. Ye Xiaoxian thought the price was pretty reasonable. They were away from home anyway and it was tiresome for the attendants to carry water upstairs. Xiao Baoshan was very thrifty and said to Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, you wash first. Ill wash after you. Was he going to wash in her leftover water? Ye Xiaoxian blushed. What if the water smelled or was dirty? But Xiao Baoshan was a coarse man and she guessed that he would not mind that much. After a short while the attendant happened to bring the zaojiao (a fruit of a nt used as soap) over. He heard Xiao Baoshans words and could not help but say, Arent you two a couple? Just wash together. The basin is big enough to hold both of you. Ye Xiaoxians face became redder. They did not reply but closed the door and Baoshan guarded outside. Ye Xiaoxian was worried that the water might go cold, so she did not bathe long. She simply rubbed and wiped herself down. After she finished, she called Xiao Baoshan toe in. She was about to go out as Xiao Baoshan had, guarding outside, but Xiao Baoshan called her to stop. Little Ye, you dont have to go out. Its cold outside. Just turning around is fine. He was right. How would it look for her, a woman, to be standing outside and waiting? What if she got teased by passers-by? Ye Xiaoxian took Xiao Baoshans book and started reading on the other side of the room. To be honest, this kind of book was very obscure. There was no punctuation in the whole book, which was also written in traditional Chinese, along with the terminology for all kinds of acupuncture points. She found it so difficult to get into. Behind her came the rustling noise of Xiao Baoshan taking his clothes off and then of him entering the water. The room was full of vapor and steam. Ye Xiaoxian felt it was a bit difficult to breathe. He washed for about fifteen minutes and she heard him getting out of the basin. She hurriedly focused on reading the book and whispered, Use the fingertip to press acupoint and then... She then felt that Xiao Baoshan approaching behind her, drawing near to her. Then, holding her waist, he gently lifted her up and then put her on the bed. Ye Xiaoxian was trembling all over. Just...just like this? As if experiencing a fierce rainstorm, Ye Xiaoxian copsed in bed. Later she stared at the beam above her head in a daze. The guy lying beside her really had be her man. ... Ye Xiaoxian heard from others that once a couple consummated their rtionship, they would be sweeter than honey. However, she did not feel that way at all. She just felt relieved, as if she had aplished a great mission in her life. She and Xiao Baoshan were originally husband and wife, so it was only a matter of time before they would do this. Apart from their physical intimacy their lives would just go on as usual, wouldnt they? Ye was so exhausted that she went to sleep early that night. Xiao Baoshan had tasted the fruit for the first time and surely thought of having several more rounds, but seeing that Ye Xiaoxian was worn-out and had rather a fragile body, he did not feel right to force her to do anything. He then also decided to go to bed earlier. The next day Ye Xiaoxian got up early in the morning and was going to buy some ingredients. She remembered what the short guy had told her; that the gang of people from Meng were going to do something nasty to their ingredients. Ye Xiaoxian wanted to ask Xiao Baoshan to stay in the hotel to look after the food. However, Xiao Baoshan did not feelfortable with letting Ye Xiaoxian go out alone, so he just carried the ingredients on his back. He was strong anyway and would not feel burdened even if more were added. Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan had just left when some people quietly sneaked into their room. Chapter 126 - We’d Better Sleep Separately Chapter 126: Wed Better Sleep Separately Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Those people had been rummaging around the room for a while and didnt find anything particrly useful, so they then left quietly. ... When Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan got back with the stuff they had bought they heard some noise in the hall. Many peopleined that the ingredients they had prepared yesterday had either been stolen or damaged. Vegetables had turned to crumbs and tofu had be clotted. They asked the manager of the hotel to give them an exnation but the manager did not know who had done it either, so he had to report it to the government office. Ye Xiaoxian whispered to Xiao Baoshan, Baoshan, shall we tell the government office what the short guy told us? Lets tell them that we suspect that people from Meng did this. Xiao Baoshan said calmly, Little Ye, as were away from home wed better avoid trouble whenever possible. Besides, you must trust the government office that they can solve the case. While they were waiting for the government office to send staff over, the manager sighed. Really, whoever did this, cant you just participate in the contest honestly? Why must you do such terrible things every year? It was even worsest year when everyone had diarrhea! Someone asked the manager, As such terrible things take ce every year, why do you hold this cooking contest annually? Wont your hotel suffer losses? The manager sneered and snorted. Ye Xiaoxian told Xiao Baoshan, ording to her experience, Actually the hotel wont suffer any loss holding this contest because they can gain more in poprity. Furthermore, one of the rules is that the chefs of the winning dishes have to selflessly give their recipes to Wufu Hotel. In this way, Wufu Hotel can borrow the names of the award winning dishes,unch their new menu and use the opportunity to make their dishes the new craze. Xiao Baoshan said, Little Ye, you have indeed seen the world and are very knowledgeable. It was so curious to think about it as since they became intimate, Xiao Baoshan stopped being reserved towards Ye Xiaoxian. Usually he had been overcautious with her before. But now, when he talked to her he would stay rather close to her. Sometimes he would also hold her waist. All of this made Ye Xiaoxian rather ufortable, but she did not know why. Could it be that she only treated Xiao Baoshan as a task she decided to conquer and actually did not like him? ... The staff from the government office arrived quickly. They asked everyone toe out and questioned them all until, atst, they actually caught the gang from Meng. Surprisingly, however, the short guy was also one of them. The short guy still tried to justify himself but the gang from Meng said, Stop acting. If it werent for you knocking on everyones doors, we wouldnt have known who was staying in which room. Until then the short guy did not give up. Ye Xiaoxian said in fury, I even thought he was kind. If I hadnt been so warm-hearted and told him about the recipe, our stuff would have been spoiled too. As some idents urred in the contest, the contest which was scheduled for the morning had been put off until the afternoon so that everyone had time to get themselves ready. Ye Xiaoxian was also preparing her things attentively. She was going to use marbled meat to cook braised pork, so the pork needed to be marinated first. As for the Pear and Emerald Soup, others all used pork balls as the pearls while she used fish balls. Fish balls were still rare in this era but Ye Xiaoxians fish balls were made very delicate. She also added tofu into the soup. Originally all the judges invited by the hotel did not think highly of Ye Xiaoxian. They thought the participant was Xiao Baoshan at the beginning but Ye Xiaoxian turned out to be the one. However, when they saw Ye Xiaoxian carve the tofu into flowers, they were all stupefied. Xiao Baoshan, staying by her side, was stupefied too. At the beginning he only saw Ye Xiaoxian wave her sharp knife swiftly, taking it to the tofu, but he did not expect to see the tofu be like a confederate rose once ced in the water. The judges were all amazed as well and shifted their attention all on Ye Xiaoxian. Despite being such a young girl she in fact possessed such special slicing and chopping skills! Ye Xiaoxian was cooking her dishes as if there was no one around. She had carved her tofu on one side and also finished marinating her pork on the other side. She then got another wok ready and put the pork in to steam it. She used this time to start making her dessert. Today she was going to make a chiffon cake. She used fresh milk and eggs to make the whipped cream, thanks to the herculean Xiao Baoshan, without whom the whipped cream would not have been made sessfully. Xiao Baoshan used three chopsticks to stir the liquid and it took him less than five minutes to beat the egg white to perfect peaks. The cake was slowly baked in a wok which was more or less like the modern cake made using a rice cooker. As long as she got the temperature right the cake could be made very well. It only took Ye Xiaoxian two hours to get the three courses done. Somepetitors had not finished cooking and started cursing, and some had finished their dishes rather quickly due to making easy to cook recipes. They just stir-fried the pork, made a mung bean porridge as a dessert and cooked some ordinary meat balls and bok choy soup. The judges tried each course and unanimously praised Ye Xiaoxians cooking, finding her dishes the best. However, the manager of the hotel found it difficult. ording to the rule, the winner had to leave their recipe to Wufu Hotel, but the dishes Ye Xiaoxian cooked were all very challenging. Basically, the carved tofu itself could not be made by any cook. Also, as for the cake and the whipped cream, it was impossible for them to find a Hercules such as Xiao Baoshan to beat egg whites like that. The hotel manager thought it over and over and finally decided to give the first prize to Ye Xiaoxian. Perhaps they could not make the tofu and cake but they could at least do the braised pork, couldnt they? The braised pork made by Ye Xiaoxian was also rich but not greasy, especially the fatty part of pork. When anyone would bite into it they could only feel that their mouths were filled with juice but would not find it greasy. When they looked at the recipe closely they found that she had added vinaigrette into it. The sour vor could refresh the pte and break down grease. The hotel manager and all the judges unanimously decided to give the winners que to Ye Xiaoxian. For Ye Xiaoxian, she came here aiming for the winners que. As long as she put up the que in her restaurant, The Xiaos Cuisine, she would gain more notoriety in Qinghe. ... As the contest was dyed, Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan would not hurry back home that night. After Ye Xiaoxian finished the contest she feltpletely rxed. She decided to go shopping before it went dark. Xiao Baoshan was also at her side apanying her. However, Ye Xiaoxian was almost unable to bear Xiao Baoshans smell. She used to find that Xiao Baoshan radiated warmth all over. Especially afterst night she could sense his smell from several feet away. It was not that he smelled but because of his forceful vibe. The feelings made her uneasy as she kept remembering what they did that night. She could not help but think: Do I really love Xiao Baoshan? Or could it be that she used to love him, but when she really had him she stopped cherishing him anymore? It was Xiao Baoshan who was to me because he used to be cold and distant to her. Now he had showed her his affection but she began to find him a bit too needy. The evening in the provincial capital was very busy and lively. The streets were decorated with Lanterns. There were also some snack shops where people could eat noodles, steamed buns and hot porridge. Ye Xiaoxian found a type of porridge made from aquatic produce acquired from rivers, cooked together with mint, ginger and spring onions and it had the effect of warming up the stomach. As for Xiao Baoshan, he ate whatever Ye Xiaoxian ate. After Ye Xiaoxian finished eating he still asked her, Are you full? Do you want another bowl? Ye Xiaoxian said, Am I a pig or what? How can I eat that much! Xiao Baoshan then became silent. Ye Xiaoxian finished eating and then went shopping. There were also some outfit sets being sold in the city. Ye Xiaoxian bought one set for herself, another one for Li Hongmei and finally also thought of buying one for Xiao Baozhu, but when she thought about her current situation, even if she bought one for her, Xiao Baozhu would have her things taken. Lastly, she also bought some things for Xian, Little Five and Little Six which were all wrapped in a big pack which Xiao Baoshan carried on his back. When Ye Xiaoxian handed the stuff to Xiao Baoshan, he was about to say something but finally did not utter a word. Ye Xiaoxian had bought something for everyone except for him. Still, he was unable to point it out. If he said something, he would appear petty and fussy. Maybe she would buy something for him after all. However, when they went back to the hotel Ye Xiaoxian still did not seem to have the idea of buying anything for him. Ye Xiaoxian did not notice this at all. She was thinking that as they were a couple, if he wanted something he might as well ask. On that day when they returned to the hotel, the manager of the hotel called her over and asked her about the recipe for the three courses shed made. Ye Xiaoxian then started chatting with the manager. She taught him the skills and also highlighted the key points. Anyway, Ye Xiaoxian was able to cook a lot of dishes and did not care to give away the recipes for these courses. They chatted for a long time untilte at night. Ye Xiaoxian then went back to her room where Xiao Baoshan was still waiting for her with affection in his eyes. She uncontrobly felt a prickling numbness in her scalp. Ye Xiaoxian pretended not to notice the desire in his eyes. She simply freshened up, got into bed with an exhausted look and went straight to sleep. After a short while she felt Xiao Baoshan approaching her. She then pretended to be asleep. Seeing that she was already sleeping, Xiao Baoshan dared not wake her, so he alsoy down beside her and went to sleep. ... After Ye Xiaoxian went back to the town, she asked Xiao Baoshan to hang up the que right away in a conspicuous ce where it could be seen by customers as soon as they came in the restaurant. Written on the que was: Winner of The Top Ten Chefs of Guang Province Competition. When others saw the word winner, they instantly felt that in this tiny restaurant actually had some outstanding people hidden there. It was no wonder that the dishes here were so delicious and no wonder that they could not have enough of their food. It turned out that the most excellent chef in the whole province was here. Ye Xiaoxian also took the opportunity andunched several new dishes which were the three courses she cooked at the contest. ording to the rules of the contest, Wufu hotel could use her dishes and her own restaurant could use them also, as after all, they were her own recipes. During this time, more people had been attracted to their business. Liu Qianqian and Lord Liu also came, but of course it was not the main concern for the current story. ... That night, after closing up the restaurant, Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baoshan and Li Hongmei went back to the house they had recently bought. Along the way home, Li Hongmei found that Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian seemed strange. Could it be that they went to the provincial city together and had already...done it? After Li Hongmei washed up she did not go to sleep immediately but extinguished the candle and kept an ear out for what was going on outside. She heard Xiao Baoshan whisper to Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, shall I sleep in your room tonight? Or will youe to my room? Li Hongmei was so surprised: Has Baoshan be that bold already? However, Ye Xiaoxian refused. I think...maybe wed better sleep separately. Why? Xiao Baoshan did not listen to her this time. Apparently they had already shared a room before. Ye Xiaoxian did not then insist. She just treated it as a task and said, Well...well okay, youe to my room then. Im not used to sleeping in your room. Chapter 127 - Little Ye Does Not Seem To Like Me Chapter 127: Little Ye Does Not Seem To Like Me Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Li Hongmei heard it in her own room and involuntarily covered her mouth and smiled secretly. The two of them finally had consummated which also took a load off her mind. While in another room, Ye Xiaoxian was lying on the bed and then saw Xiao Baoshan stand beside the bed, so she was moving inside a bit. Xiao Baoshan then lied down closely beside Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian did not speak anything and neither did Xiao Baoshan. After a long while Xiao Baoshan began to ask Ye Xiaoxian. Little Ye, do you find me annoyed recently? Find you annoyed? I dont think so, said Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan thought for a while and then said, Maybe its a false impression of mine, but I keep feeling...after that once in the hotel, you seem to ignore me constantly. Was I too bold on that day? Not at all. Dont think too much. Lets just sleep. Ye Xiaoxian turned over and turned her back to Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan was thinking of doing it with Ye Xiaoxian but now he had little choice but to beat a retreat. ... In the restaurant. After the winner gue was being put up they were getting even busier these days. She was busy for deep frying pork and slicing tofu. Of course she would not carve the tofu as borate as the one for thepetition. Xiao Baoshan did not go back to the dock just yet but continued to help with the restaurant. While they were taking a break in the afternoon, Xiao Baoshan was unable to refrain himself from asking Li Hongmei. Ma, I have to ask you something. What? asked Li Hongmei. Ye Xiaoxian was not around now and Li Hongmei could tell right away that he wanted to ask something about Ye Xiaoxian. Where did Little Ye learn her cooking skills? Does she know this kind of cooking skills when she just came to our family? asked Xiao Baoshan. The reason he asked this was that when he watched Ye Xiaoxian participate in the contest, he was shocked by her artistic and sophisticated slicking skills. How could she have such amazing slicing skills? She must have practiced thousands of times to reach the acme of the perfection. Li Hongmei also said confused, About the thing you asked, I also find it strange. Ye Xiaoxian hase to our family for many years and I didnt know that she was so good at cooking before, but ever since you came back, she had as if be enlightened all of a sudden. She has changed and be good at cooking. Sometimes I suspect if the core of her has been changed which makes her not her real self, but judging by her looks, she is still herself. Xiao Baoshan smiled, She is herself alright. Theres no such thing of changing a core. I dont know about it in this way. Maybe she is able to do it all the time but we were so poor back then that she didnt show her true color and hid her real ability away. Now seeing that you came back and Baofeng and Baozhu have also grown up, she felt that she didnt need to hide her true ability anymore, so she showed it to us. Anyway after you came back she has changed a lot. Well, Baoshan, why do you ask me this? Do you think theres something wrong in Little Ye? Xiao Baoshan hurriedly shook his head, No, how could she have something wrong? Thats more like it. Dont guess randomly. Havent you and her already...heehee... Li Hongmei did not spell it out. However, Xiao Baoshan did not look very happy. Ma, Little Ye doesnt seem to like me very much, said Xiao Baoshan. Nonsense, how can Little Ye not like you? Otherwise would she do it with you? Xiao Baoshan felt kind of wronged. She did it with him but did it mean that she liked him? Li Hongmei then said, You think Little Ye isnt very passionate about you, right? You deserve it, who asked you to blow hot and cold before? You used to refuse sleeping with her determinedly. When you made a scene and imed tomit suicide, why didnt you think about how terrible you looked like back then? Now you suddenly get passionate to her and you expected her to be the same as you? How can it be that easy? You just have to be patient to her and be considerate. But rest assured, Ill talk to Little Ye and speak up for you. Chapter 128 - Should I Push Him Away? Chapter 128: Should I Push Him Away? Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Despite Li Hongmei making this promise to Xiao Baoshan, still, Xiao Baoshan was her son and Ye Xiaoxian was her daughter-inw. While talking to her son she could say anything and criticize him as much as she pleased, but she had to be polite when she spoke with her daughter-inw. Also, Li Hongmei did not find the chance to talk with Ye Xiaoxian until Xiao Baoshan left for the dock. Little Ye, you and Baoshan...are you getting along pretty well recently? Li Hongmei asked tentatively. Ye Xiaoxian suddenly paused and then said, Weve been alright, as usual. As usual? But you already live together, dont you? asked Li Hongmei. Were a couple and supposed to live together, Li Hongmei replied while cutting vegetables. Ah, if you could have a son, it would be perfect, Li Hongmei giggled again. In that case, I can have a grandson to take care of, right? What do you think? Talking about having a grandson, Ye Xiaoxian was not sure if she could really get pregnant by the way they did itst time. That night in the hotel, Xiao Baoshan had really done her good. If she really got pregnant and was going to give birth to a child, what would happen to the restaurant? Who would cook the food? A pregnant woman was supposed to keep away from grease and smoke, otherwise the fetus in her womb would be affected. She heard that the most effective time span for using contraception was 72 hours, but now it was already toote for her. So...abortion? That would be too cruel to the baby, wouldnt it? Little Ye, what happened? asked Li Hongmei. Why are you in a daze? You dont want to have a child with Baoshan? Ma, it takes time to have a child. Think about it, if I give birth to a child, who will be in charge of the restaurant? We havent saved enough money and the child will suffer when he is born. Li Hongmei smiled. I never heard such an opinion. No matter how many children you give birth to, itll just be a matter of adding another pair of chopsticks. A child will grow up in the blink of an eye. In the future youll have one more hand helping you to work and to earn more rice, right? ... For the first time, Ye Xiaoxian found the mindsets of ancient people were too different from modern ones. On second thought, Li Hongmei was notpletely wrong. In this era it was not thatplicated to have a child. They dont have to think about school districts, extracurricr sses or intensive courses which were such a pain. However, she still did not want to give birth to a child too early. She thought that if she was not pregnant this time, that the next time she will have to take measures in advance. Ye Xiaoxian then felt uneasy and worried for half a month and did not breathe a sigh of relief until her period came again. ... Business at Ye Xiaoxians restaurant was booming. After the new year she hired more hands. Also, she had taught Little Five, Little Six and Xian to be chefs who could rece her temporarily. However, Little Five, Little Six and Xian only copied her mechanically. They just did what Ye Xiaoxian told them to do. As for the principals of food and taste, they did not understand. That was to say, the dishes they cooked only had the form but not the soul. Still, it was sufficient to deal with the customers in the restaurant. There were more customers and the restaurant could not amodate all of them, so Li Hongmei suggested that they add more chairs and tables which, however, was turned down by Ye Xiaoxian. Dont we need to add more tables and chairs? asked Li Hongmei. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Ma, we dont need to add more tables. We can add chairs but instead of cing them inside, we can put them outside for customers to sit down while queuing up. Queuing up? Li Hongmei felt surprised. Were a restaurant, not those stalls or stands. If you ask customers to queue up, will they be happy? We have no other choice. There are only so many tables. If they want to eat here they must queue up. Maybe they will have some opinions at he beginning so, Ma, I need you to take very good care of them. After a while, theyll adapt to the restaurants queuing rule, so theyll behave and queue up. After all, Ye Xiaoxian had been working in the modern food industry for many years and certainly knew the tricks of the trade. As the number of people queuing up began increasing, it made more people find the food in the restaurant delicious. Due to the curiosity of the public, they would be more willing to try the food here. Ye Xiaoxian made some cards for queuing also. As expected, when these people were asked to queue up at the beginning they would curse sulkily, butter on, when they saw that everyone who was queuing would be provided with free sweet and sour plum soup and popcorn made by Ye Xiaoxian herself, they stopped arguing. Despite the free plum soup no one would be greedy about it. After all they were here for food. If they were too greedy drinking the plum soup and eating the popcorn, they would not have room in their stomachs for the food. As time passed by, the diners adapted to the rules of the restaurant and stopped fussing. As for Ye Xiaoxian, she did not cook dishes on her own much. She mainly instructed Little Five, Little Six and Xian to cook and stand to one side to watch. ... The better Ye Xiaoxians business got, the more jealousy it stirred among her peers. There were originally three big restaurants in this town; Jui Hotel which provided both amodation and an eatery, Xianglin Hotel which was almost the same as Jui andstly Jufu Restaurant whose main business was meals and wine. The manager of Jui Hotel was named Dai Yuanfei. The manager of Xianglin Hotel was a woman called Sister Xiang; Jufu Restaurant was a family business run by the elder manager of the family who was called Lord Lin. Among the three of them, Sister Xiang felt mad about Ye Xiaoxian the most. Her hotel was on the same street as The Xiaos Cuisine. Since Ye Xiaoxian had won the award and put up the winners que, as well as started using the trick of queuing up for food, the business of Xianglin had dwindled. Luckily The Xiaos Cuisine did not have a lodging business but if they didunch one, her hotel business would decline even worse. Sister Xiang was about thirty years old, chubby and light skinned. Sometimes when she passed by The Xiaos Cuisine and saw it was packed with people inside and out, her anger would surge up. Humph, a bunch of red-necks. They dared to win over her customers! Sister Xiang knew that she could not let The Xiaos Cuisine grow and prosper like this. They must take measures, otherwise her restaurant would be more and more deserted. Sister Xiang firstly went to find Dai Yuanfei of Jui Hotel. Dai Yuanfei was an infamous ham shop guy in Qinghe, which in the local dialect meant lecherous. He loved to fool around with others wives as he found married women more appetizing, so he was not interested in a woman unless she was married. There used to be an ountant in his hotel. Dai Yuanfei thought the wife of the ountant looked rather pretty, so he began to flirt with her. The wife could not resist the seduction and ended up biting the hook. Later, the ountant found this out and went to argue with Dai Yuanfei but got beaten up by him. Dai Yuanfei also falsely used the ountant of stealing his money. The man ended up losing his wife and getting a broken leg. So, the chubby and light-skinned Sister Xiang went to find Dai Yuanfei. Once they met, Dai Yuanfei began to stare at her in a lewd way. In this era they did not treat being fat as a w and only looks mattered. Sister Xiang was more or less a looker. After Sister Xiang exposed her intention, Dai Yuanfei then crossed his legs, looked at Sister Xiang and said, Oh, this is a piece of cake. No problem, no problem. But lets have a meal together before we discuss it. While they were eating the meal Dai Yuanfei started molesting Sister Xiang and forced her to drink. Sister Xiang drank a couple of drinks and could tell that Dai Yuanfei was up no good. Sister Xiang could open up a hotel in town which not only depended on her beauty but also her courage in order to make her business sessful. She felt a bit tipsy, then put the cup down on the table loudly and pointed at Dai Yuanfei saying, Ive seen enough of men like you! You want to grope me? No way. Im not so desperate that I should throw myself at a man like you! Dai Yuanfei pretended not to understand. Whats wrong? Arent we just drinking normally? Besides, dont you want to discuss the issue of The Xiaos Cuisine? Where has throwing yourself at mee from? Sister Xiang roared, You know better than I do! After she shouted she left furiously. Seeing the action of Sister Xiang, Dai Yunfei actually felt surprisingly happily. This chick is spicy enough! ... Sister Xiang left Dai Yuanfeis ce and then went to Jufu Restaurant directly to find Lord Lin. However, Jufu Restaurant was owned by a big family with great property who did not only have the restaurant but also other businesses. Even if the restaurant closed they could still manage to live well. Lord Lin also said, Besides, the business of The Xiaos Cuisine and ours do not ovep. Why not? Because we are professionals in dog meat. Diners here are drinking wine and eating dog meat. Does The Xiaos Cuisine do dog meat? They surely didnt. Sister Xiang returned in fury and felt really vexed. None of those men were reliable. Well, she could only rely on herself. ... That day, Xiao Baoshan came back from the dock again. Last time he went with a ship to a more remote town. In the ship he found some passengers and inquired about the famous produce of that town or of something delicious there. Others told him that the town produced pomelo. Although it was already after New Year there was still a lot of pomelo being sold. Xiao Baoshan then went to buy a couple of them, put them in a hemp bag and carried them back for Ye Xiaoxian. When Ye Xiaoxian saw the pomelo she beamed with happiness. Xiao Baoshan thought that she loved eating pomelo but did not expect Ye Xiaoxian to peel the skin off the fruit and then ask Xiao Baoshan to take the flesh. She said, The skin of the pomelo is a great ingredient for cooking and can also be used to make honey and pomelo tea. Ye Xiaoxian did not even thank him before she went to fiddle with her honey and pomelo tea. Ye Xiaoxian had recently bought the honey from a beekeeper. As she found it too sweet she did not drink it. When she made the tea, Ye Xiaoxian only took it to share it with Li Hongmei and said that they would leave another cup for Xiao Baofeng. As for Xiao Baoshan, he seemed to be forgotten by her. Xiao Baoshan felt a bit wronged but as a man it would not be appropriate for him to just criticize Ye Xiaoxian. Finally it was Li Hongmei who took another bowl to Xiao Baoshan and asked him to drink it quickly. Baoshan, you went away from home and got thinner again, Li Hongmei said loudly in order to let Ye Xiaoxian hear it. Ye Xiaoxian heard it but pretended that she did not. As Xiao Baoshan was back she had to consider the way they slept at night. They did not see each other for a while and she seemed to be more unfamiliar with him. What was more, her anger towards him had not resolved yet, so she had no interest in him at all. Xiao Baoshan did not take the bowl of pomelo tea but cracked open the flesh of the fruit considerately, turned them into a shape of a flower and then passed it to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian finally said, Thank you. Youre wee, said Xiao Baoshan. Later, seeing that Ye Xiaoxian did not eat the pomelo, he sighed slightly and then turned around. He could tell that Ye Xiaoxian really found him annoying now. He was also very stubborn: As you find me annoying Ill stay away from you if it will make you less annoyed? Ye Xiaoxian saw Xiao Baoshan go inside the room and note out again and felt kind of upset. Ah, actually the past is already the past so why should I sulk by myself? Should I feel happy by pushing him further away? Seeing Xiao Baoshan go back to his room, Li Hongmei was unable to control herself and went over to Ye Xiaoxian to have a word with her. Little Ye, listen to Ma, for us women, we really should know when to stop. Finally he has given his whole heart to you but you keep pushing him away again and again. If he doesnte back anymore or finds a sweetheart elsewhere, it will be toote for you to cry by then. Chapter 129 - The Feeling of Love Chapter 129: The Feeling of Love Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian did not answer but just looked at the pomelo flesh in her hands and felt veryplicated. That night, after washing up, Xiao Baoshan went back to his own room rather early. His thoughts remained as before: As Little Ye finds me annoying, Id better not disturb her for now. As for Ye Xiaoxian, seeing the tightly shut door to Xiao Baoshans room, she remained silent for a while and then also went back to her own room. Lying on the bed she slightly sighed. There was ack of passion between them. She could not sense the feelings of love. Just let it be! Xiao Baoshan came back this time and would stay for a couple of days. He felt bored being at home and so went to the restaurant to help. He did not cling to Ye Xiaoxian this time when he went to help. He sometimes served the food as a waiter. However, he was too tall and strong and when he served food there was no smile on his stern face, so none of the customers dared say anything once he came over. Li Hongmei was afraid that he would scare customers away, so she asked him toe back and go to the backyard to help the others chop vegetables. Xiao Baoshan had little choice and could only go to the backyard. What they were doing in the backyard was washing and chopping vegetables. Xiao Baoshan then started working with the newly employed assistants. There was a door in the yard which was for the employees toe in and go out. Xiao Baoshan was washing the stuff and suddenly spotted Xian who came in from outside. An assistant asked Xian, Sister Xian, where did you go? Xian looked a bit tense. No...nowhere particr. I just went out to buy some stuff. We werecking some ingredients just now. Xian then hurried back to the kitchen. Xiao Baoshan stopped the work he was doing and frowned slightly. Now Ye Xiaoxian was mainly in charge of inspection and management at the restaurant. She sometimes went to the front hall to take bills. asionally some customers would call her over and chat with her, asking how she cooked the dishes and how she won the prize in the provincial capital. Ye Xiaoxian was not very good at socializing, so once she could not manage a social conversation Li Hongmei would fill her shoes while she would find an excuse for saying she was busy in the kitchen. On that day, Ye Xiaoxian went to the kitchen and found there were only Little Five, Little Six and a fire-attending assistant inside. Xian was missing. Xiao Baoshan was not there either. Ye Xiaoxian did not mind where Xian went as she might go to the toilet at any time. It was just that she felt a bit upset at Xiao Baoshan not being here. Would he go back to the new house because she ignored him? Or go back to the dock? Ye Xiaoxian thought about it and felt that her mind was also very contradictory. When Xiao Baoshan was here she found him annoying but when he was not here she was worried that he may have second thoughts about their rtionship. If he did have second thoughts, would her situation return to what it was like in the past? She was previously like a widow with a husband. Ye Xiaoxian went the backyard and wanted to have a look if he was washing vegetables there. However, Xiao Baoshan was not in the backyard either. What was more strange was that Xian was also not in the backyard. Seeing that Ye Xiaoxian seemed to be looking for someone, a new assistant pointed at a room in the backyard. In order to avoid gossip the door was not shut. Ye Xiaoxian cautiously looked inside and noticed that Xiao Baoshan and Xian were talking by the door. Ye Xiaoxian walked towards the door with lighter steps and heard Xiao Baoshan talking. ...This is your freedom and we respect your freedom. We wont force you to stay, but I hope if you do want to leave you should leave decisively and do not take anything here with you. Well, Ill give you two hours to think about it. If you make up your mind,e and talk to meter. Xian did not say anything but was only sobbing in a low voice. Xiao Baoshan soon came out of the room. Seeing Ye Xiaoxian standing outside he nodded to her slightly and added, I was discussing something with Xian. What were you discussing? asked Ye Xiaoxian. She had actually guessed that Xian seemed to want to leave the restaurant. Xiao Baoshan was yet to answer but Xian inside could not help bute out and directly knelt down in front of Ye Xiaoxian. Sister Ye, its all my fault. I shouldnt have met that Sister Xiang. Sister Xiang said that she wanted to hire me to be the chef of her restaurant and cook the dishes on their menu. Have you agreed? asked Ye Xiaoxian inly. No, no, I havent agreed formally. Brother Xiao just told me that Sister Xiang is actually up to no good and aims to defeat our restaurant. When she achieves her goal shell cast me aside because if I can betray Sister Ye, I can also betray her. Betrayers will not end up well. Im having a great time in Sister Yes restaurant and I shouldnt be greedy, so I wont go. While Xian was speaking she started crying. Ye Xiaoxian quickly helped Ye Xiaoxian to get up, wiped her tears for her and then smiled. Look at you. Dont cry. It was her who came to you. It wasnt you who volunteered to find her and besides, you havent said yes to her. But I... Xian did not have the nerve to tell them that she almost said yes. Ye Xiaoxian said again, Do you feel that the wage we pay you is not enough? No, its not like that, said Xian. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Lets call it a day for now. Well have a meeting tonight after the restaurant is closed. Xian went back to work while Ye Xiaoxian looked at Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan also looked back at her. The two pairs of eyes met each other while the two people seemed to be calm, but inside their hearts something was churning up and down like the tide. Xiao Baoshan still thought that Ye Xiaoxian would find him annoying so he said, Ill go and help the others wash vegetables. Baoshan, wait a minute! Ye Xiaoxian called him to stop. Yes? said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian walked under the eave and continued to ask him, How did you find out about Xian? She left in the middle of work and when she came back she looked very tense. I guessed that there must be something on her mind. After I asked her she became more nervous and could not hold it back, so she spilled everything. Now I see. Thank you so much for that. Without you I wouldnt have known about this, said Ye Xiaoxian. Youre wee, Xiao Baoshan said inly as usual. This time he did not leave first as he wanted to see Ye Xiaoxian go first. But Ye Xiaoxian also did not go and the two of them stood there awkwardly for a while. Ye Xiaoxian then said, I dont have much to do for now. Why dont you take me out for a wander? Where do you want to go? Its cold outside, said Xiao Baoshan subconsciously. It was indeed cold outside and he was worried that she would catch a cold. Ye Xiaoxian was speechless, thinking that this guy was so dumb that he understood nothing. I am asking you to date me, got it? She said vexed, Never mind! She was just about to turn around when Xiao Baoshan suddenly pulled her to stop. He suddenly understood something and was afraid that she would leave, so he pulled her a little bit too hard. He said, Little Ye, wait one hour for me, okay? Ye Xiaoxian did not know what Xiao Baoshan was up to, so she waited for one hour in the restaurant. During this time she also went to the front hall and taught Xian and others to cook a couple of dishes. While she was doing these things she was absent-minded as she kept guessing what Xiao Baoshan was going to do. That dumb guy, what else could he do? Perhaps he went back home to fetch some clothes for her. It was some. Couldnt he take off his own clothes and put them on her? After around one hour Ye Xiaoxian heard Li Hongmei shout, Little Ye, hurry up ande outside. Baoshans back and has brought a horse with him! A horse? In this era, only rich people had horses. Ye Xiaoxian hurriedly went outside and saw Xiao Baoshan standing on the street among the bustling crowds. Xiao Baoshan, being tall and strong, led a tall white horse and looked rather mighty with a heroic bearing. At that moment Ye Xiaoxians heart fluttered. Just like in the old days when she began to get along with him. She had lived two lives and whenever she flipped, it was for him. Xiao Baoshan waved to her and asked her toe over. She just went up to him and got picked up in his arms. He directly put her on the back of the horse and also mounted the horse himself. Little Ye, sit still! said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian immediately gripped the rein. Xiao Baoshan was sitting behind, his tough and well-built chest against her back. He then waved the whip and the horse began to slowly run towards the outskirts of town. Baoshan, slow down! Ye Xiaoxian shouted hurriedly. She had never ridden a horse before and did not expect that riding one could be so bumpy. She felt like she was going to be shaken off at any moment. Xiao Baoshan rode the horse slowly at first, when they were still in town, but as soon as they were out of town it was as if he could not wait to make the horse fly. Ye Xiaoxian was shocked at first but gradually got used to the rhythm. She then tried to open her eyes and became more and more excited. Passion! This was the passion! Now she just wanted to shout. When the horse left the town, it ran along the river bank. It was spring, when all things on earth were recovering. There was green grass and colorful flowers near the river. Ye Xiaoxian had not been this happy for a long time. After they rode for a long while, Ye Xiaoxian pointed at a beautiful grass and said, Baoshan, stop over there! Xiao Baoshan tightened the reins to make the horse stop stably on the grass. He dismounted first and then carried her down from the horse. Ye Xiaoxian felt that her hands were a bit frozen and blew on them, but Xiao Baoshan gripped her hands to his chest and said, Little Ye, its warmer here. Ye Xiaoxian blushed and her heart leapt. She did not put her hands on his chest but directly put her arms around him and said happily, Baoshan, where did you get the horse? I borrowed it from a customer whos a businessman. Baoshan, Im really happy today. Thank you! Its good as long as youre happy, he said with satisfaction. Ye Xiaoxian smiled at him, clenched her fists and gently punched him on his chest. I didnt expect that you could be so romantic. What is romantic? asked Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian once again punched him gently and whispered, Like this. Right, you punching me is romantic. So, can I also punch you a little bit? Ye Xiaoxian did not say anything. Is Xiao Baoshan flirting with me? She turned around. No! Xiao Baoshan hugged her from behind and asked her again, Little Ye, are you still cold? No, Im not. Youre hugging me so how can I still feel cold? She said shyly. Xiao Baoshan then wrapped her more tightly in his arms. Seeing that there was no one around he came closer to her and kissed her gently on the cheek. Ye Xiaoxian then turned to him and kissed him deeply and sweetly. After a long while she thought that this was what love should look like! Green grass, a white horse and a couple of lovers kissing, like some beautiful painting. Chapter 130 - The One Who Steals Customers Chapter 130: The One Who Steals Customers Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio After they came back from the river bank, Ye Xiaoxian called Little Five, Little Six and Xian over to have a small meeting. Ye Xiaoxian looked quite like a chief manager. Think about it, every one of you has been working for me for quite some time. How have you been doing recently? Are you happy working here? Do you feel that I, the manager, bully you or exploit you? Little Five hurriedly said, Of course not. Sister Ye, youve treated us really well, like your own family. We eat what you eat and Ive eaten more meat here than I ever have before. Everyone was roaring withughter and Little Six also said, Yeah, I think, I think Im really happy here. Xian felt a bit ashamed so she did not speak. She was worried that Ye Xiaoxian was holding this meeting to talk about her issue. However, Ye Xiaoxian did not say anything but kept asking, So are you satisfied with your sries? Everyone was looking each other confused. Little Five said first, Yes, I am satisfied. Little Six also said, Yes, Yes. Xian nodded too. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. You told me that youre satisfied but you certainly lied. One tale of silver a month. How can that be satisfying? They looked at each other again and did not know what Ye Xiaoxian had up her sleeve. Besides, having one tael of silver a month with free meals and amodation, they could make some handsome savings. Ye Xiaoxian said, Actually, when I hired you back then, I told you that I hope that you can improve yourselves. If I can make more money, you can earn more also. Have you already forgotten my words? The rest of them did not speak and only Little Five scratched his head. I seem...to vaguely remember this. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. If you dont remember, Im here now to reaffirm it. Youre with me and work for me and I pay you ording to your abilities. When you first came here you were only able to wash dishes, wash vegetables and serve food, no different from other waiters in other restaurants, so your sry was naturally the same as others. But youve already made some progress. You can cook dishes now, so youre worth more than you used to be. If you still earned the same as other waiters do, I would be exploiting you. Hence from next month your sries will be raised to two taels a month each. Whether your sries will be raised again in the future depends on your improvement. Little Five, Little Six and Xian were all stunned. They could even get a pay rise working in this restaurant! Ye Xiaoxian then added, Where theres a promotion, theres a deduction. From now on when you cook dishes for the customers you must guarantee to make them satisfied. If they are not satisfied I will deduct your sry. Bear this mind and dont then use me of being unreasonable or say that I dock your sries. Right, rest assured, Sister Ye. I will do my best! Little Five was the first to support the idea. Little Six was the second. I will also do my best. Xian asked timidly, Sister Ye, can I also have a pay rise? Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Whats the difference between you and them? Or do you think I wont give you a raise because youre a woman? Xian immediately felt relieved and also tried to show her determination. Sister Ye, rest assured, I will certainly do my best! Xianglin Hotel. Sister Xiaing had been waiting for Xian for two hours. They had made a deal that if Xian agreed toe she woulde at a quarter past seven and wait in Xianglin Hotel, however, Sister Xiang failed to see Xian show up. Sister Xiang could not control her temper and thumped a table. Xian only earned one tael of silver working for Ye Xiaoxian and Sister Xiang had offered her a promotion paying three taels a month, but Xian still did not agree to change jobs. As Xian did not show up she could only try other assistants of The Xiaos Cuisine. Where there were heavy rewards, there were informants. Sister Xiang found an assistant who was in charge of buying ingredients and asked him to keep an eye on the recipes and procedures of the dishes cooked by The Xiaos Cuisine and to ry to her all the details. Sister Xiang also had cooks in her hotel and had dined at Ye Xiaoxians restaurant for quite some time. As long as she tasted their food carefully she was not worried that she would not be able to make the same kind of dishes. After half a month, Ye Xiaoxian heard from some diners that Xianglin Hotel hadunched the exact same dishes as theirs at much lower prices. For example, Taro Braised Pork was 40 coins per portion here in The Xiaos Cuisine but only cost 30 coins in Xianglin Hotel. Ye Xiaoxian felt confused at first. As Xian did not leave and Little Five and Little Six also worked very hard all day, how could Xianglinunch the same kind of dishes? They even hung the menu publicly outside of their hotel which was obviously to lure their customers away. After what Xianlin Hotel did, the customers of Ye Xiaoxians restaurant decreased a lot. Even Li Hongmei came to ask Ye Xiaoxian nervously, What shall we do? They are rich and mighty and what do we have to fight them with? Ye Xiaoxian thought about it and then said, Ma, lets go. Well get a table there and also taste their food. Xianglin Hotels waiters did not know Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei. As they were also customers, they just went over and served them. Ye Xiaoxian ordered several dishes which were the same as The Xiaos Cuisine and then waited for the food to be served. Being honest with themselves, this Xianglin Hotel looked rather big and fancy. The daily cost was quite high, so it was rare for ordinary people toe and dine here. Now the hotel had decreased their prices and had also made some new dishes, so the diners naturally came to eat here as soon as possible. It was not long after Ye Xiaoxian had sat down when the restaurant was filled with people. Ye Xiaoxian ordered a portion of braised pork, fish filets in hot chili oil and sweet and sour ribs. When the food was served, Ye Xiaoxian picked up her chopsticks and tasted the braised pork first. Li Hongmei also followed suit and took a chunk of pork. Once she put it in her mouth Li Hongmei could not help saying, Eugh, what the hell is this? The fat is so hard that I cant even chew it in. The skin is also overcooked and they still have the nerve to serve it! Ye Xiaoxian originally was also worried about their customers being stolen away but after she tasted the food she could not help smiling. It turned out that the dishes in Xianglin only had the looks without the taste. Ye Xiaoxian was not stupid. Although she asked Little Five, Little Six and Xian to cook most of the dishes, still, she was the one who prepared the seasonings, such as the thirteen-spice seasoning powder which she prepared back at home and brought to the restaurant. The recipe for the seasoning was exclusively known by herself. Even though the others like Little Five, Little Six and Xian knew how to cook and the procedures, they did not know how to prepare the seasonings. Moreover, for Little Five, Little Six and Xian, after the conversation that night they were not likely to have betrayed her. Apparently Xianlin Hotel did not put their heart into it butunched the new dishes in haste. Li Hongmei also tried fish filets in hot chili oil. Once she put it in her mouth she spat it back out. The way they slice the fish makes it tasteless inside and it only has some vor on the outside, eugh! Li Hongmei said. Ye Xiaoxian involuntarily reminded her, Ma, please pay some attention to your manners. Wed better save them some face. The waiter is still watching us. Ye Xiaoxian was then going to taste the sweet and sour ribs but when she put the rib in her mouth, she was unable to hold back and spat it out. Hell, eugh! Li Hongmei hurriedly asked her, Little Ye, didnt you say we should pay some attention to our manners? Why did you spit it out also? Ye Xiaoxian quickly drank some tea and said, Gosh, its far too sour. How much lemon did they use! Li Hongmei also did not know what to say. When they left the Xianglin Hotel, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei felt rather refreshed. Li Hongmei scolded them while walking. Bah, what do we call this? Taking a leaf out of someone elses book! Ye Xiaoxian said, Thats right, theyre taking a leaf out of our book, arent they? I was worried that they would steal our customers away but now Im so reassured. Customers are not stupid. Maybe at the start they will go there once or twice for the cheap price but will they still go a third time? Not only Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian had this thought but Sister Xiang also thought about it this way. Despite Sister Xiangunching new dishes in order topete with The Xiaos Cuisine, after the menu had actually been updated and more customers were weed in, she began to feel very anxious. She also tasted the dishes cooked by her own chef which were not terrible but still, she felt every dish was missing something. But when she saw a lot of diners today she had second thought: Whatever, Ill just lure them over first. The customers wont only order the new stuff and must order some old dishes too, right? She had quite a few previous signature dishes. However, after many people tried the food that day, they ended up leaving unhappily and cursing. On the second day, the guests had decreased to the half the number of the first day and on the third day another half of the customers had disappeared. There were still some remaining who did not leave. Sister Xiang sent someone to ask the reason. They imed that they did not care much about the taste. They only cared if they had enough meat in the dish. 30 coins for a big te of braised pork made them very happy. Sister Xiang thought angrily. If this continued she would finally suffer losses. She had no other way out but to withdraw all the new dishes. In this way, her hotel lost a lot of profit. As there originally were not many diners and after she caused this big trouble for herself, fewer customers woulde. Diners had returned to Ye Xiaoxians restaurant. Ye Xiaoxian asked the kitchen to make more sweet and sour plum soup, free to drink, which was highly praised by the customers who said that they not only had better dishes but also had a generous owner. Ye Xiaoxian did not make much effort to gain such a huge windfall. That night after they close The Xiaos restaurant, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei carriednterns and came out of the restaurant. While they were passing an intersection they saw someone also carrying anterning towards them. Ye Xiaoxian looked at the person clearly and saw that it was nobody else but Sister Xiang. Sister Xiang also saw Ye Xiaoxian. She was a bit taken aback and then said in an unpleasant tone, Huh, here we are. Your business is going really welltely, isnt it? Li Hongmei was about to retort but was stopped by Ye. Ye Xiaoxian signaled Li Hongmei not to say anything while she slighty bowed to Sister Xiang in a polite way. Ye Xiaoxian then pulled Li Hongmei to leave. After they had walked far, Li Hongmei asked Ye Xiaoxian, Why did you stop me from criticizing her just now? Chapter 131 - Being Attracted To Her Chapter 131: Being Attracted To Her Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ma, we dont have to do that. Sister Xiang was angry, so we shouldnt confront her. If she gets provoked she will pick on us. Li Hongmei said, Even if we dont react she will pick on us anyway. Ye Xiaoxian thought about it and sighed. A tall tree catches the wind C a person of high position is liable to be attacked. Its impossible to make others not pick on us. We wont provoke others but if they cause trouble for us we wont be afraid of the trouble! That morning Ye Xiaoxian only stayed in the restaurant for one hour. Afterwards she gave her instructions to the others she then went back home. She needed to make some seasonings secretly at home. Before making it she carefully closed all the doors and windows. She had just moved the stuff into the room and suddenly heard some noise at the gate in the yard. Ye Xiaoxian was rmed, as she was worried about being spied on by someone else. However, there came Xiao Baoshans voice from outside. Little Ye, are you in? Ye Xiaoxians heart beat wildly all of a sudden. She put down her work and went to open the door immediately. Only she, Li Hongmei and Xiao Baofeng usually lived in this new house, so whenever she was home alone she would lock the door safely and secure it with a wooden beam. Ye Xiaoxian opened the door and saw therge, tall figure of Xiao Baoshan standing outside with his handsome face. She blushed instantly. Baoshan, howe you came back now? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan went in while talking. I went to sail with a ship a couple of days ago and just came back this morning. Didnt you go to the restaurant? asked Ye Xiaoxian. I havent. I wanted toe home to see if you were here. If you werent here Id have gone to the restaurant to find you. Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit shy. Since he had brought a horse that day and kissed her beside the river bank, she had begun to miss him and looked forward to his return. But as a woman in this era she was supposed to be rather self-controlled, so she did not show her passion and pretended to speak calmly. Have you had breakfast yet? Yes, I have. You? He walked in front of her. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Look at the time. I have surely had breakfast. Are you making seasonings at home? He walked towards her with his breath blowing on her face. She felt her body bing extremely warm. It was early spring but Ye Xiaoxian felt that her body was sweating, as if feverish. She wanted to take off her cotton jacket, but as Xiao Baoshan was here she felt too shy to take if off in front of him, so she had to bear it. Yes, Im doing the seasonings at home so I didnt go to the restaurant, said Ye Xiaoxian. She then pretended to put some star anise and Zanthoxylum together and ground them into powder. Xiao Baoshan took over for her and said, Let me help you. Xiao Baoshan was strong and had seen Ye Xiaoxian grinding spices before, so he knew how to grind it. It took no time before he had finished all the work for Ye Xiaoxian. She involuntarily praised him. Youre so strong. Im always very strong. You know that, said Xiao Baoshan. ... Ye Xiaoxian blushed and once again suspected that Xiao Baoshan was flirting, but when she looked at Xiao Baoshan, he still put on a straight face which did not look suspicious at all. Ill go in and pour some water for you, said Ye Xiaoxian. As she was at home today she spared some charcoal. A bottle of boiled water was on the top of the charcoal. Ye Xiaoxian poured a bowl of boiled water and was going to give it to Xiao Baoshan. She was about to turn around when Xiao Baoshan also came in, so she identally spilled some hot water on him. Oops, sorry, you suddenly came in... Ye Xiaoxian was worried about his clothes getting wet, so she hurriedly put down the bowl, took out a handkerchief and wiped his clothes. However, Xiao Baoshan suddenly gripped her hand and gazed at her rather affectionately. Ye Xiaoxians face blushed again. What is he going to do? Xiao Baoshan lowered his head slowly to reach her lips. She was nervous and took a step back while wondering why Xiao Baoshan used to be very thick-headed and never made a move, buttely seemed to have changed into another person? Has he learned this from some experts? He went sailing everyday and must have seen all kinds of promiscuous people whose behavior could easily rub off on Xiao Baoshan. Seeing Ye Xiaoxian withdrawing, Xiao Baoshan firstly paused but then, again, pulled her close to him and continued to kiss her. Ye Xiaoxian failed to say anything. They started with kissing and ended up with you know what. Xiao Baoshan panted and repeated, Little Ye, youre mine. Say it, youre mine. Ye Xiaoxian had no other option but have to do what he told her to. She ended up copsing in exhaustion. Xiao Baoshan had only been back for several hours and was going to leave in the afternoon. He exined that he still had another sailing job in the evening. She was too tired to even get up while he was still extremely energetic without looking remotely tired. Ye Xiaoxian truly suspected that he came back this time specially to make her sweat. Ah... She sighed deeply in bed and turned over, but when she thought about Xiao Baoshan she suddenly giggled. Atst, she pulled up the duvet and covered herself in it tightly. She was feeling so shy that she thought she was going to die! In the evening Ye Xiaoxian took the seasonings to the restaurant and then did some ounting work at the counter. Li Hongmei was originally serving customers outside but when she saw Ye Xiaoxian giggle while fiddling with the abacus she felt confused. What kind of happy thing has Little Ye encountered? After Li Hongmei observed her closely, the look on Little Yes face was not like some ordinary happiness but like something that happens in spring. She could not help but walk over and asked, Little Ye, why did youe sote today? Ye Xiaoxian spoke before thinking. Baoshan came back today and I spent some time with him. Oh... Li Hongmei drawled. So that exined it. Wheres Baoshan? asked Li Hongmei again. Ye Xiaoxian blushed and said, He went back to the dock. So soon? He said that he just came to have a look back home and did not have anything important to do. Why didnt hee back to see me? asked Li Hongmei with a smile. Ye Xiaoxian said shyly, Ma... Haha, he came back to see you in particr. I see, I see. Well, Little Ye, have you got changed? I dont think you were wearing the same clothes in the morning. Ye Xiaoxians face was scarlet. Ma, please stop. ... The mother-inw and her daughter-inw were talking yfully in front of the counter and did not notice that new customers had arrived. The people who came in were Fan Shanding and a friend of his. Fan Shanding always knew that Ye Xiaoxian was good at cooking but after his sons one-month birthday he had not eaten any food cooked by Ye Xiaoxian. After all he just had a son and once he left work he would go back home to check on his son. He did not stop paying all his attention to his son until the new year. Also, he sometimes felt the food cooked in his own family was too light. He somehow thought about the dishes cooked by Ye Xiaoxian that day and after he had discovered she owned the restaurant he decided hed have to go there sometime. After they entered Fan Shanding saw Ye Xiaoxian with a blushed face being teased by Li Hongmei. Fan Shanding felt rather strange. It was not like he had never seen Ye Xiaoxian before. When he saw her twice previously he only felt that Ye Xiaoxian was stubborn and headstrong, but now when heid his eyes on her, he found that she possessed a kind of feminine charm which was beyond words. She was active and also timid, like a Chinese rose that had just bloomed, dripping with dew. Fan Shanding was in a daze looking at Ye Xiaoxian and felt a tickle in his heart. After a long while, Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian saw Fan Shanding enter. Ye Xiaoxian hurriedly said, Ma, the tax official from the government office is here. The tax official? Him? asked Li Hongmei. Lets go now and serve him. Ye Xiaoxian dared not slight Fan Shanding, so she pulled Li Hongmei over to greet him and said, Sir, how do you do? Are you here to dine in our restaurant? Fan Shandings eyes were fixed on Ye Xiaoxian. From her bowing to greet him to getting up again. Every movement of hers emanated a charm possessed by young women. I came here to eat, said Fan Shanding. He was a little tongue-tied. Sir, this way please. Ye Xiaoxian served him with extreme hospitality, leading Fan Shanding and his friend to the booth on the second floor. She then asked him, Sir, what would you like to eat? Our signature dishes are... Fan Shanding said, Well have a portion of braised pork and a Pearl and Emerald Soup, and some wine also. Yes sir, just a minute. Ill ask the kitchen to cook your meal right away, said Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian turned around and went downstairs while Fan Shanding looked at her back. She had slender figure with curves. Her waist was slim and her behind was plump which made her look very attractive. Downstairs, Li Hongmei felt a bit uneasy. Little Ye, why did that tax officiale here to eat? Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Ma, even a tax official needs to eat meals. Who doesnt? But why do I feel that he... Li Hongmei had been through a lot of men and she could tell the nasty thoughts in a mans mind from just one look. Oh, maybe I thought too much. Little Ye, Ill serve himter. Dont you go, said Li Hongmei carefully. Right, Ill go to the kitchen to deliver the orders then, said Ye Xiaoxian. Li Hongmei looked at Ye Xiaoxians back and also found that Ye Xiaoxian was seeming more and more good-looking. For a woman who had a man, she was indeed different from a woman without a man. A woman without a man looked unripe no matter how you looked at her, however, once she had a man she would be alluring. It seemed that she had to guard Ye Xiaoxian on behalf of Baoshan. Fan Shanding did not find this meal very tasty as his mind was upied by Ye Xiaoxians looks. Fan Shanding also had wife and concubines back home but he was already fed up with them. Apart from his little son, he did not even feel like going back home. After he finished the meal he then asked his subordinate, Dont we have two attendants in the government office? One is called Xiao Tieshu and the other is called Xiao Tongshu. Go and inquire about their family issues, especially their second household. The subordinate was a little puzzled but as it was an order from the tax official he thought it must be some kind of case, so he went out to do it like a loyal dog. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were still on duty and when the subordinate of the tax official came to ask them about the second household, they looked very annoyed. Last time they made fools of themselves because of Xiao Baozhu. As time had passed they had be more and more confused about what was going on with the second household. For example, during new year each family had to pay their respects and worship their ancestors, but only Xiao Baoshan came back to represent the second household. He left right away after he finished the ritual. They figured that perhaps after a longer while the second household would separate themselves from the Xiao Familypletely. Chapter 132 - The Tax Official Came Again Chapter 132: The Tax Official Came Again Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Tieshu said to the subordinate of the tax official. We only know that Baoshan is working in the dock now and my sister-inw and others were running a restaurant in town. Havent you investigated their restaurant before? Thats how it goes roughly. Just like what you have investigatedst time. Xiao Tongshu also said, Yea, thats how it goes. By the way, I heard that they bought a house in town but they havent thrown a housewarming banquet. We also havent been invited to their new house. ... After the tax official went away Xiao Tieshu started cursing. The second household is going way too far. They dont even invite us to have a look at their new house. Xiao Tongshu said, Isnt their new house on the route of our patrolling? We pass that area everyday and we know what it roughly looks like. It doesnt matter if we go there or not. Thats not the case. If they invite us, it means that they still treat us as their rtives, but if they dont invite us, they must have totally exclude us from their household. Xiao Tongshu said, Thats right. We dont have some deep-seated hatred against them. We just made them do more work in the past, didnt we? But they couldnt earn any money back then, shouldnt they need to do more work? Ah, you wish you know peoples hearts. Xiao Tieshu sighed. The two brothers did not expect that they would see Ye Xiaoxian the next day. Ye Xiaoxian went back home from the restaurant at noon when she encountered the two brothers who were patrolling on the street. Ye Xiaoxian went over and greeted them. Elder Uncle, Third Uncle. Xiao Tieshu saw Ye Xiaoxian and was not very cheerful. He snorted. Mhmm. Xiao Tongshu then said sneeringly, Hah, Little Ye, why arent you in the restaurant? Dont they need you to work there? Ye Xiaoxian smiled. No, not really. We have a cook to do the job there. No wonder you look rather energetic. It turns out that youve hired someone, said Xiao Tieshu. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Elder uncle, did you praise me? Thank you. Xiao Tongshu said as if he ate sour grapes. People be energetic and refreshed when they have something good going on. Your restaurant is running well and you have bought a new house and you also won some big prize in the provincial capital. You have be much better-off day by day. Ye Xiaoxian said, Its not that good. By the way, Uncles, why dont youe to our new house and have a meal with us when youre free? Once Ye asked, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu felt shocked. ... Ye Xiaoxian actually invited them to have a meal there. Was the sun rising from the west? Ye Xiaoxian smiled again. I was busy about the issue of Baozhu and then went to the provincial capital to take part in the contest and now have something tricky to mind, so I didnt even have time to invite you to our new house. I heard that you went to visit Baozhu before, so I tell myself that youre really the family. Only our own family is willing to visit Baozhu. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were surprised again. Xiao Tieshu then said, Never mind, I remember that I still owe you several hundreds of coins. I wrote an IOUst time, didnt I? Ye Xiaoxian exined with a smile. Elder Uncle, although our restaurant looked rather grand, we actually dont make that much of money and weve already exined the reason to you. We need to pay the employees, the rent, the tax and the food ingredients like vegetables and rice, so we really dont have much money left. Therefore, even though our family memberse to eat, we have to charge you. However, Uncles, after all you went to eat for the first time, so lets just call the debt off, but theres one condition. You cant take anyone else to eat again, especially that Xun Wenda. That guy doesnt look decent. Ye Xiaoxian had given them an out to that extent, so if the two brothers still could not understand, they must have some mind problems. Also, seeing Ye Xiaoxian who was really sincere, Xiao Tieshu then said, Well...Ill go back and check with your elder aunt to see when were free to go. If we have time, we will go. Right. Ill see youter, said Ye Xiaoxian. What? You want to invite your two uncles to eat in our house? Li Hongmei looked Ye Xiaoxian in surprise. Ye Xiaoxian said, Yea, Ive thought about it. The two uncles and us are not enemies. After all, were blood rtives. We dont have some serious hatred and also, we have moved to a new house, so itll be inappropriate if we dont invite them toe over and have a meal. Li Hongmei thought about Wong Mudan and Chen Ju and felt a bit unhappy. Ye Xiaoxian then tried to persuade Li Hongmei with a smile. Ma, were not in the vige now, so we cant be short-sighted and limit ourselves to the current small interests. We have think ahead. Elder and third uncles are attendants working for the government office. Who knows, maybe they can give us a hand someday in the future. Besides, elder and third aunts are in the vige and wont sponge off us very often. I have told them very clearly already. Li Hongmei still felt a bit struggling. Well, weve done so hard that finally got rid of them. How can we get rid of them? Blood is still thicker than water. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Li Hongmei could not win Ye Xiaoxian over, so she could only said, Fine, its all up to you, so long as you find it okay. ... As for Fang Shanding, he had investigated that Ye Xiaoxians husband was working in the dock, so he had quite a feeling of superiority. Just like the Young Master Zhang before, Fang Shanding thought that he was much superior than workers in the dock. He also thought that he could attract Ye Xiaoxians attention. For women, at the beginning they all found young and handsome guys attractive but with time passing by, they would value money more. Fang Shanding regarded Ye Xiaoxian as one of those women too. Fang Shanding was a cautious man, so he asked others to have a further investigation. Later on he discovered that Xiao Baoshan had quite a decent wage and was a kung fu master, so he did not have much advantages. About this matter, he could only do it strategically and gained ess gradually. He could not do it forcefully. Fang Shanding had analyzed his advantages and disadvantages. His advantage was that he had a higher position in the government office, so he could take Ye Xiaoxian to meet upper-ss people and offer her more opportunities. As to his disadvantages, naturally, he was getting old and had wives and children. Even if he could mange to get Ye Xiaoxian, she could only be a little concubine of his. Fang Shanding was old and did not wish to make any trouble for himself, he did not want to make Ye Xiaoxian his concubine. He only wanted to treat Ye Xiaoxian as his soul mate, so they could chat, enjoy the poetic aspect of life and also, beyond being soul mates, they could be another kind of partners. He also felt that this kind of arrangement actually favored Ye Xiaoxian. She could not only have Xiao Baoshan as her husband but gain one more mature soul mate. Little Ye, that tax official came again and wanted to see you. In the restaurant, seeing Fang Shandinge again, Li Hongmei went to serve him but Fang Shanding said that he had something to talk with Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian was about to go out when Li Hongmei held her hands with an anxious look. Little Ye, you must be careful. I dont think the tax official bear a good intention. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. He cant be like that, can he? He didnt say anythingst time he came. Old guys always conceal their feelings. Maybe he is adopting a long-term n to secure something big. In short, Li Hongmei felt really worried. Li Hongmeiforted Li Hongmei. No matter what, I have to go to check. Today Fang Shanding came here alone to see Ye Xiaoxian. When he saw Ye Xiaoxian he only ordered one dish but offered her an invitation. Miss Ye,st time you went to my home to cook the birthday banquet for my son, right? There were a lot of people dining in my house including the chief of the government office himself. He ate the food you cooked and could not stop praising you. After a couple of days, the chief will hold a banquet in his house. Are you free? Do you want to go there and help them to cook a couple of dishes? Cooking dishes? Chapter 133 - Treating The Xiaos to A Meal Chapter 133: Treating The Xiaos to A Meal Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Thats right, cooking dishes, Fang Shanding emphasized. It is the chief who will hold this banquet. If you go there, you can meet the chief himself. If you can get along with the chief of the government office, you will have a strong backer in Qinghe. Ye Xiaoxian found that what Fang Shanding said sounded right, so she bowed to him. Sir, thank you so much for introducing me to the chief. May I ask when will the chief hold the banquet? Fang Shanding stroked his beard. Soon. Ill let you know a couple of days before the banquet so that youll have time to prepare the ingredients. Also, Ill ask my secretary to contact you to pay for your expenses. Thank you, sir. Ye Xiaoxian bowed again. She thought that Fang Shanding would leave after talking about this matter but he still stood on the spot looking at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian thought that he was going to eat here, so she said, Sir, what would you like to eat? Would you like to go upstairs to dine? Fang Shanding shook his head. No, never mind. I have something else to do and wont eat this time. See you next time then, sir. ... After Fang Shanding left, Li Hongmei quickly went over to ask Ye Xiaoxian, What did the official want today? Ma, you really do think too much. Mr. Fang said that the chief of the government office will hold a banquet soon and wanted me to be the chef. I agreed. Ma, we currently dont have a backer in town, do we? If we can get to know the chief, well have someone to take care of us if we encounter any trouble in the future. What do you think? Li Hongmei also felt surprised. Ah, thats right. In this case, I really did think too much. So, did you agree to that? Yes, I agreed. Mr. Fang said that hell inform me a couple of days before the banquet, so I can go there by then. Ye Xiaoxian then added, Ma, before I go to cook for the chief, lets treat elder and third uncles to a meal first. What about the day after tomorrow? I reckon Baoshan is alsoing back that day. Li Hongmei was a bit unwilling but still listened to Ye Xiaoxian. ... Wong Mudan and Chen Ju heard that Ye Xiaoxian was going to treat them and they could not believe it was true. Wong Mudan snorted coldly, That whore Little Ye, maybe shes thinking of mixing poison with the food and wants to kill us! Chen Ju was scared by her. Sister-inw, do you mean it? Does she really want to poison us? But what would she gain by killing us? Wong Mudan said, How do I know? Anyway, there cant be good intentions from the second household. When Ye Xiaoxian promised to treat them she sounded very sincere, so Xiao Tieshu said, I believe Little Ye. When she said this to me that day, she behaved very politely. Xiao Tongshu also said right away, I can prove it. Wong Mudan still said in suspicion, Do we need to go in from the back door like thest time we visited Xiao Baozhu? Their house doesnt have a backdoor, does it? It only has one front gate, Xiao Tieshu said. Third brother and I go patrolling there everyday so we know. Then can Pa also go? Chen Ju asked. Of course, Little Ye said that everyone is invited, Xiao Tieshu said. ... On the day of the treat, the Xiaos marched into the town. Old Mr. Xiao did not want to go at first, but did not resist Wong Mudan and Chen Jus constant persuasion. He atst went with them unwillingly. However, before he went there he urged them again and again, I wont live in town this time, not for a moment. When you go to leaveter, you must take me. Wong Mudan said, Pa, dont speak too soon. The second household has now bought a new house, so you dont have to live in the restaurant. Maybe when you see the new house, you wont want to leave. That wont help either. They go to the restaurant during the day and no one attends to me. Wong Mudan could not help cursing silently. Damn old thing, you only pester me. ... In town, Li Hongmei was standing outside and waiting for the first and third households to arrive. Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian were cooking in the kitchen. Xiao Baoshan did not quite understand Ye Xiaoxian. He asked, We dont get along with elder and third uncles, do we? Why did you ask them toe and have a meal with us? Ye Xiaoxian just asked Xiao Baoshan in return, Then tell me, am I right or am I wrong? Xiao Baoshan smiled slightly. As long as you do it willingly, it is right. Ye Xiaoxian blushed. Smooth talker. Xiao Baoshan saw Ye Xiaoxians little face be red and she looked rather cute and sexy, so he could not control himself and felt a tingling in his heart. He uncontrobly walked up to Ye Xiaoxian and kissed her on the forehead. Ye Xiaoxian dodged. Were in the kitchen. Its nasty here and Im covered with smoke. The more she talked this way the more Xiao Baoshan felt the urge to kiss her. He then touched her face with his. So annoying! Ye Xiaoxian shouted. Xiao Baoshan had note back until this morning and as soon as he hade home he was called by Ye Xiaoxian to help her cook. He had not had time to be intimate with his wife yet. In the past if Ye Xiaoxian said so annoying, he perhaps would take it seriously thinking that he himself was really annoying, but now when Ye Xiaoxian said the same thing, he knew that she did not mean it that way. This is the advantage of sailing with the ship. He heard about all of these things by going sailing. Xiao Baoshan still wanted to continue kissing his wife when they heard Li Hongmeis loud voice. Oh, Elder Sister-inw, Third Sister-inw, youve made it. Oh, Pa, youre also here? Long time no see, you look very well. Ah, Baocheng, Baoyang and Baoxue, youve all be taller. Haha... It gave Ye Xiaoxian, who heard her from inside, goosebumps. Li Hongmei was not happy in the morning and now when she saw them, of course she needed to look hospitable. It was just that she was overly passionate and sounded rather fake. Wong Mudan asked Li Hongmei, Howe youre standing outside to wee us? I must! You havente for such a long time and are now finally here. If I didnte outside Id look rather mean, hahaha... Li Hongmei guffawed. Wong Mudan thought, Keep acting. Obviously it was you who didnt invite us before but said we didnte to visit, humph. Everyone, dont stand outside. Come,e inside! Li Hongmei continued. Li Hongmei then saw Wong Mudan carrying a chicken, so she said, Look at you, you shouldnt bring any gifts. Youre far too polite. Although Li Hongmei said this, she reached out her hand and took the chicken right away. Wong Mudan thought again, Humph, still acting! ... When everyone entered the courtyard, they started sizing up the small yard. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu enthusiastically praised it, saying that the yard was dainty and beautiful. Old Mr. Xiao did not think of it that way as he did not think there was any use for a yard being dainty. On leaving the yard they woulde to the street, which was much more confined than in the vige where they could walk around when they went out. The kids did not like the ce either. They found the bamboo grove small and they had only a few trees that they still could not climb. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju did not think much of the ce, but after they asked the price of the house they almost wanted to crawl out of it. It was so expensive that what was the point in buying it? They might as well live in the restaurant and cram together even though it was crowded. Why did they want to spend this much money? With that much money, they could always build a big house in the vige. Were the second household all stupid? ... After a short while, Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan also came out. Ye Xiaoxian had made some crunchy biscuits and handed them out to the children. When the children had food to eat they stopped making noise right away and sat down obediently to eat their snack. Then the meal began. What Ye Xiaoxian had cooked were all household dishes which contained plenty of meat and were incredibly filling. During the meal they talked about what Wong Mudan and Chen Ju were doing back home and asked about Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshus work at the government office and then about how the children were doing. They just ate and drank in this way, looking quite like a big family. Wong Mudan had stopped worrying that the second household would poison her. Seeing that there was a lot of meat in this meal she kept picking up meat and asked Baocheng to eat more in case when they returned they would not have chance to eat that much. Talking about the chief of the government holding a banquet and asking Ye Xiaoxian to cook for him, Ye Xiaoxian then asked Xiao Tieshu, What kind of guests will the chief invite? Xiao Tieshu then answered confused, Ive not heard the good news about the chiefs family or provincial officialsing to town, but the chief holds banquets from time to time. Those he invites are just his colleagues and theyll just eat somemon household dishes. Oh, in this case, Mr. Fang is rmending me specially. Mr. Fang doesnt know the exact date either. Whenever the chief holds a banquet, Mr. Fang will rmend me to him, but why should he do that? Ye Xiaoxian asked puzzled. The guests were not fixed and the date was not set, so this could be nothing but a special rmendation. One would do this only for a friend or for others they though highly of, right? Xiao Baoshan felt a bit confused also. Xiao Tongshu also said, Well, why should you guess so much? Little Ye has cooked for Mr. Fang before, right? Maybe Mr. Fang wanted to show off and do a favor for the chief by rmending Ye Xiaoxian to him. You can just boldly go there, Little Ye, youve got us in the government office. Well keep an eye out for you and if theres anything fishy well go and inform Baoshan. Xiao Tieshu sneered. Whats the use of informing Baoshan? Can Baoshan enter the government office? Hes not even a handyman now. But Xiao Baoshan said gravely, Elder Uncle, Third Uncle, if theres anything strange there, please do inform me. Im thanking you in advance. Xiao Baoshan said this rather politely, so if they did not inform him then they would be in the wrong, so Xiao Tieshu hurriedly said, Sure, sure. ... After they were all stuffed with food and drink, Old Mr. Xiao firstly ran out of the yard and waited outside. Li Hongmei asked him involuntarily, Pa, why did you run so fast? No one is leaving yet. Old Mr. Xiao snorted coldly, ignored Li Hongmei and stood there rather self-willingly. Wong Mudan said sulkily, Hes afraid that well leave him in town again and abandon him. Old man! Old Mr. Xiao then started shouting fiercely, Wong Mudan, Im listening out here! Fine, fine. We wont talk about you anymore! Seeing there were still some leftovers, Wong Mudan asked Ye Xiaoxian. Little Ye, theres so much left over and you guys wont eat it all, will you? What about... Ye Xiaoxian took the hint and said, Elder Aunt, just a minute. Ill fetch some lotus leaves to wrap up those leftovers so you can take it all with you. Ah, thatd be great. Little Ye, youre so kind! Chen Ju said, Well, Id like some too! Dont you eat meals together? Just take them together as well, said Ye Xiaoxian. Chen Ju was so happy that she even pped her hands. There was a lot of meat in the leftovers and they could have another big meal in the evening. Chapter 134 - You Are So Hard-Working Chapter 134: You Are So Hard-Working Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian had just finished treating the Xiaos when Fang Shanding sent someone to ask her to go to the government office the day after tomorrow. The chief of the government office was going to treat a group of around fifteen of his friends to dinner, so he asked Ye Xiaoxian to prepare the food. Ye Xiaoxian then stopped doubting and quickly went to prepare enough ingredients for 15 people. On that day she and Little Five took the ingredients to the gate of the government office and waited there for a while. The man sent by Fang Shanding asked Ye Xiaoxian to wait at the gate for a while when she arrived at the government office. While Ye Xiaoxian was waiting she saw another horse-drawn carriage passing by. This carriage was very in. Mainly it was because the carriagepartment was made of in wood and the only decorations were several red tassels. Most of the carriages here in town were like that though, they were not as delicate as the ones in the provincial capital. Ye Xiaoxian was waiting when a breeze blew up the curtains of the carriage, so Ye Xiaoxian saw a familiar face sitting in it. Sister Xiang? Sister Xiangs carriage passed the government office and then circled around and finally entered the back yard of the government office via a tiny gate. Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit confused. Did Sister Xiang know the chief? After a short while Fang Shandings man came. He also took Ye Xiaoxian to the tiny gate in the backyard and then took her through to the kitchen. Ye Xiaoxian did not have a chance to appreciate the back yard of the government office, after all, the back yard was where the chief and his family lived. She looked around casually and felt that the yard was very delicate. After they went into the kitchen, she did not have the time to look at the back yard and started busying herself. Fang Shanding did note until she was cooking. He asked Ye Xiaoxian, Miss Ye, how are your dishesing along? Ye Xiaoxian said, Theyll soon be done! She thought that Fang Shanding was here to hurry her in cooking the dishes. After she answered him she began to get busy again. However, Fang Shanding did not leave. He stood there looking at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian felt that she was being stared at by a pair of burning eyes from behind, so she turned around and checked. Why does Fang Shanding not leave? Sir, what else can I do for you? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Fang Shanding smiled and said with integrity, Nothing particr. I just came to have a look. When I saw you cooking just now, I felt that youre very skillful and your cooking will actually be very enjoyable. Sir, youre ttering me. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Okay then, when you finish cooking. Come with me and Ill take you to meet the chief, said Fang Shanding. Yes! Ye Xiaoxian bowed. ... After the dishes were done, Ye Xiaoxian followed the cooks to take the dishes out. They went through the pavilion and rockery and also passed a small garden. Ye Xiaoxian then saw a group of people in front of them who were surrounding the framed flower bed and pointing around. It turned out that the winter jasmine in the backyard of the government office had bloomed, so these people were appreciating the flowers. In this era people did not have much in the way of entertainment. For people of a certain ss, such as the chief, their entertainments were just appreciating flowers, practicing calligraphy orposing poetry. For lower-ss people, they would go gambling or cricket fighting. Their lives were very boring. Among this group of people, Ye Xiaoxian spotted Sister Xiang right away. She was indeed a friend of the chiefs but what kind of friend? Seeing Ye Xiaoxianing over, Fang Shanding hurriedly reminded the chief, Sir, the food is being served. Would you care to try some of the dishes cooked by this Miss Ye. Her dishes have won the provincial prize. The dishes that Ye Xiaoxian cooked this time contained the three courses she cooked for the provincial contest, other signature food from the restaurant and some other pastries. The chief was in his forties. He wore a beard, was very thin and looked rather in like a viger. He nced at Ye Xiaoxian and asked, Youre quite young, where do you learn to cook? Ye Xiaoxian said, I used to tend the kitchen fire for a chef and I learned his cookery skills secretly. Heh, youre so hard-working. Chapter 135 - Sister Xiang Wants to Learn The Skill

Chapter 135: Sister Xiang Wants to Learn The Skill

Ye Xiaoxian was not sure what the chief meant, so she did not answer. The chief then tried Ye Xiaoxians dishes and, differing from his usual attitude towards her, thought very highly of them. After the chief began to eat, his friends also started eating. They all praised Ye Xiaoxians cooking one by one. The chief did not order her to leave, so Ye Xiaoxian was standing on the other side, waiting. Sister Xiang also started to eat. She tried a bit from each course and then tasted them very carefully. After she tasted the vor she said to Ye Xiaoxian, No wonder your restaurants business is so good. It turns out that you, a master chef, are working there. I tried to make the same kind of dishes as those in your restaurant but I didnt bring it off, so I just had to give up. It was obviously a viciouspetition but Sister Xiang downyed it and covered it up. Ye Xiaoxian said in neither a humble nor pushy way, Every restaurant has its own specialty. Xianglin is good at brewing wine and your lodge business is doing very well. You dont have to do the same dishes as our humble eatery does. Ye Xiaoxian then said yfully, If you did then small eateries like ours would have no way of surviving, would they? Sister Xiang, you have to spare us so that we can make ends meet. Sister Xiang red at Ye Xiaoxian and obviously did not approve what she just said. At the same time, the chief then asked Ye Xiaoxian, Are those dishes in your restaurant original and created by you? Yes, Ye Xiaoxian replied. So it means that you alone support the whole restaurant, right? Sir, I have to be honest, Im a farm wife and not an all-rounder. To run a restaurant, we need a lot of people helping and all my staff y important roles. Every sentence Ye Xiaoxian replied with was said in fear. She was worried that if she failed to please the chief, he would kill her or cane her at anytime. The chief sized Ye Xiaoxian up again. Though you cant do that much work alone, you have decided on the types of dishes. Whether this restaurant can be run or not, it still depends on you, right? Ye Xiaoxian smiled, thinking, Well, whatever you say. Then someone eximed, Its a fine spring day. The weather is so warm and we also have winter jasmine to appreciate. This beautiful scenery and delicious food makes me feel so refreshed! Many others agreed with what he said. As the chief saw that all of his guests were satisfied, he himself felt satisfied too. He was just about to ask Ye Xiaoxian to leave when Sister Xiang said, Sir, as the view and the food are both so delicate today, why dont we ask our Chef Ye to talk about how she cooked the food? We can also learn. I dont wish to copy herpletely. As long as I can learn sixty or seventy percent of it, I can cook the dishes by myself and make do with it. What do you think, everyone? After Sister Xiang finished talking, a male guest echoed, That doesnt sound like a bad idea. I really like this braised pork. Ill ask my wife to give it a try and cook it someday. I wonder if she will seed. Ye Xiaoxian nced at Sister Xiang. Sister Xiang also stared at Ye Xiaoxian provocatively. Unexpectedly, the chief also spoke up. Okay, its still early today and were done looking at the flowers. So then, Cook Ye, tell us about the recipes for your dishes while we are eating. Ye Xiaoxian thought, Sister Xiang must be having some affair with the chief or the chief wouldnt help her so much. Well, if they insisted, she would tell them. Ye Xiaoxian then pointed to the braised pork with taro. Let me tell you about the braise pork. As you can see, there are two ingredients in this dish. One is pork and the other is taro. Ill talk about how to cook the braised pork first. The braised pork is made of marbled pork and its very important to choose the right marbled pork. You need to choose a kind of pork which contains oneyer of fat and twoyers of lean meat. I usually buy them from a butcher in XX street. Their pork costs 10 coins per jin which is a tiny bit more expensive than others... Ye Xiaoxian had said a lot but was still talking about the pork. Sister Xiang was very absorbed but the chief felt impatient already. He asked, Can you put it more simply? Ye Xiaoxian said, Sir, in order to make a good dish, one has to pay more attention to the details. Even missing one detail will end up spoiling the vor of the dish. Okay, keep talking then, said the chief. Ye Xiaoxian continued, What I just mentioned was the selection of the pork. Now Ill talk about how to make the pork. When the streaky pork is bought it should be drained. Remember to drain the waterpletely. If you dont then it will crackle when you put it into the oiled pan and the vor will also be affected. By the way, you must use enough oil. Use onerge pot of oil at a time to submerge the marbled meat, do not be stingy with the oil. In addition, when frying the marbled meat, you should adjust the fire to make it neither too big nor too small. Take a kind of firewood stick as thick as ones wrist for example, and you can use three or four sticks at a time. How long do you fry it? You have to fry it for half an hour at a time. In the middle of frying, you must check the skin of the marbled pork. The skin of the pork is everything. If the skin is well-fried, itll be crunchy when you bite into it. If the skin is not fried well then it wont taste as crunchy. So, as for how to fry the skin properly... Ye Xiaoxian was going to continue when the chief yawned. He then asked, Cook Ye, can you write down all of this mumbo-jumbo you said? Ye Xiaoxian said as if in a dilemma, Sir, Im a farm wife and cant write. I can write one or two simple characters perhaps but its impossible for me to write theplicated ones. Id better just say it verbally. Everyone can learn it if theyre attentive enough. When I was little, I learned it by observing others carefully. The chief waved his hand. No need, no need. Judging by how you spoke about it, you dont seem to ever finish talking. You may leave for now. If we want to eat your dishes, well ask Fang Shanding to bring you over. Sister Xiang was so furious that she almost died. She was not sure if Ye Xiaoxian was doing this on purpose or not. However, Ye Xiaoxian pretended that she felt rather sorry. Im really sorry everyone. I cant teach you. When she then bowed and left, Ye Xiaoxian suddenly felt relieved. But when she just rxed, she heard someone shouting to her. Miss Ye. Ye Xiaoxian turned around and Fang Shanding actually also followed her over. She had no option but to bow again. Mr. Fang. Fang Shanding smiled. You just met the chief. Were you nervous? Very, very nervous. I can tell that the chief likes your dishes very much. In the future, if the chief holds a banquet again, I guarantee that hell think about you first. Congrattions. Fang Shanding smiled. Ye Xiaoxian asked herself silently: Is it worth congratting? She originally thought that if she agreed to cook for the chief of the government office, she could extend her social life and, also, it was a chance to open her eyes. Although it had not ended particrly well, she had at least met the official with the highest position in town. In this case, I might as well congratte myself. Ye Xiaoxian thanked Fang Shanding and said politely, Thank you so much for introducing me to the chief, Mr. Fang. Beyond her expectations, Fang Shanding made another remark. Actually, in order to introduce you to him, Ive spent a lot of time convincing the chief. Ive suggested it to him many times and he finally agreed to let you cook the dishes. Ye Xiaoxian was confused: What is his intention in saying this? Chapter 136 - Be My Soul Mate

Chapter 136: Be My Soul Mate

Ye Xiaoxian could only bow to him again and said, Then thank you so much for your efforts, Sir. I, being just a humble farm wife, cant thank you enough. Fang Shanding then asked, You keep referring yourself as a farm wife. Are you trying to suggest something to me? ... Ye felt confused. What did I suggest? A farm wife meant a married vige woman, didnt it? Although she found speaking in that way very annoying, such as I, a humble maid or I, a humble farm wife, she did not know any other ways to describe herself. Besides, in the modern era, many women in theirte thirties still called themselves girls and never hesitated to dress themselves in as young a fashion as possible. Fang Shanding noticed the confusion in Ye Xiaoxians eyes. He found that Ye Xiaoxian did not understand his implication at all. How could he remind her? Fang Shanding then rephrased and exined, I just meant that calling yourself a farm wife sounds very distant. Whats your maiden name? Ye Xiaoxian replied, My family just call me Little Ye. Right, so Ill also call you Little Ye, is that alright? Fang Shanding smiled. Ye Xiaoxian suddenly felt that Fang Shandings smirk looked rather hypocritical as if a nasty old guy was coaxing a na?ve girl. Could it be that Fang Shanding was bearing some evil thoughts about her? Sir, you can indeed call me Little Ye as, after all, Im younger, but I insist on calling you sir at all times. Youre my senior and an official, so I must pay my respect to you. Fang Shanding stroked his chin and smiled, Look at you, take it easy, will you? You can call me whatever you like. Still, you dont have to treat me as your senior. Though Im older than you, I like making all kinds of friends in my life and some of my younger friends are the same age as you. Ye Xiaoxian just smiled and did not say anything. Fang Shanding then went one step further. Little Ye, if you dont mind my pestering, we can actually be equals. From now on, just see me as your friend and Ill also regard you as my soul mate. Ye Xiaoxian immediately took one step back. He had put it so obviously and she also could not keep acting dumb. Sir, I m afraid that I cant enjoy this kind of privilege. Im just a viger and dont know anything apart from cooking, so how am I qualified to be your equal, sir? Itste already so I should take my leave. Sir, the chief is still waiting for you, please go back. Little Ye... Fang Shanding still tried to keep her there. But Ye Xiaoxian pretended that she didnt notice and ran out of the backyard of the government office as if escaping. When she got out of the backyard, her heart was still thumping. The old guy, as expected, did not bear any good intentions. In this case she had displeased Fang Shanding and wondered if he would cause any trouble for her behind her back. ... Fang Shanding did not expect that Ye Xiaoxian would turn him town so directly. He had done everything in vain. This Ye Xiaoxian was really ungrateful and did not appreciate his kindness at all. Somehow, however, the more Ye Xiaoxian refused him the more attracted to her he became. Especially when she pretended to be calm just now, her appearance made Fang Shanding feel that she was not like other women, as she had courage. Fang Shanding was about to return to the banquet but the moment he turned around he saw Sister Xiang stand behind him. Fang Shanding knew where Sister Xiang hade from. She and the chief imed that they were soul mates and best friends but all normal people knew that Sister was the chiefs mistress. The chief was transferred from elsewhere and his wife and children had note along. He was very lonely living here alone, so naturally he would find some women. The chiefs taste was also unusual. He did not like young girls as they wouldnt share simr interests. He only liked women that were mature and experienced like Sister Xiang. Sister Xiang bowed to Fang Shanding. Sir, how do you do. Fang Shanding quickly bowed back and asked, Sister Xiang, why arent you remaining at the banquet? Have you enjoyed your food? Sister Xiang smiled. Yes, I have. The cook you invited has great skills so how could we not enjoy ourselves? Im stuffed. Fang Shanding smiled. Then I feel relieved. Sister smiled and asked again, I feel that you rather like that Little Ye? Little Ye? Fang Shanding could not help but ask. Sister Xiang, did you hear me chatting with Little Ye just now? Yes, I did. After I heard it, I really feel that Little Ye was quite ungrateful. She could refuse anyone but not you. Im really confused. If she doesnt have that kind of intention, why should she agree to cook here? Youve gone out of your way to do all this for her, however, she doesnt even want to make friends with you. So whats the point of all the things youve done for her? I really feel sorry for you. In my opinion, she is just using you to meet the chief. After Sister Xiang instigated it, Fang Shanding suddenly became furious and felt so used. However, he currently could do nothing about Ye Xiaoxian. He could not force her, otherwise he wouldmit a crime of intimidatingmon young women. Sister Xiang smiled again. Arent you a tax official? Theres must be a way you can do something to her. Im also running a restaurant and know that all the eatery owners are afraid of paying taxes. Little Ye must be afraid of that too, right? Fang Shanding looked at Sister Xiang and hoped that she would continue. But Sister Xiang stopped talking and only gave him a mysterious smile. Think about it. ... Fang Shanding thought about it for a long while and then realized that he did not need to think at all. The next day he asked his man to send a letter to Ye Xiaoxians restaurant, saying that Ye Xiaoxians restaurant was not qualified for the first-tier tax standard, so she needed to pay six taels of silver per month. After Fang Shandings man passed the document to Ye Xiaoxian, he did not just leave but said to Ye Xiaoxian, Miss Ye, our lord said that this is not the formal document and yet to be stamped, so it hasnte into force yet. Whether or not itll be enforced all depends on you. So, he was suggesting that Ye Xiaoxian should give in? Ye Xiaoxian held the document feeling furious and then she sneered. Humph, another hypocrite. He pretended to be considerate towards her, as if he wanted to promote her, but in fact he was just one of those men! She said to the messenger, No need. Just let Mr. Fang stamp it. Ill pay six taels. ... When the messenger went back and told Fang Shanding about Ye Xiaoxians attitude, Fang Shanding grabbed the document and felt so angry that he almost tore the paper apart. This girl was neither enticed by the carrot nor browbeaten by the stick Good, you have quite a personality! Fang Shandings man saw him behaving this way and asked involuntarily, Sir, so will you still stamp this document? Or rewrite it? Fang Shanding said, Rewrite it and increase the tax to nine taels a month. Send it to her again and see how she responds. ... In The Xiaos Cuisine. Ye Xiaoxian read the new document showing that the tax had been increased from six taels to nine. She sneered again. She asked the messenger, Is there any other tax higher than nine taels? The man replied, No, this is the highest tax bracket for eateries, unless you change your restaurant into a big hotel. Then how much tax does Sister Xiang pay for her Jui Hotel? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Well... the man said. I dont know. By no means would he tell this to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian said, Okay, its no problem for you to charge me nine taels. After you stamp it, give the formal document to me then. The man nced at Ye Xiaoxian confused. He felt that for a moment aplicated glow shed across Ye Xiaoxians eyes, as if she was about to make a move. Chapter 137 - For Xiao Baozhu, Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining

Chapter 137: For Xiao Baozhu, Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining

The tax officials messenger went back to report to Fang Shanding and told him what Ye Xiaoxian said. The tax official said coldly, Did she really say that? Yes, she said that its alright to charge her nine taels and to stamp the document. Shes not against it. Fang Shanding suddenly thumped the table furiously. Such a headstrong girl. Well, shed rather be charged nine taels, right? So he would charge her nine taels. Fang Shanding took the stamp and mmed it on the document. Miss Ye, dont me me for being harsh, its all because youre too stubborn. Youd better note to beg me. If you do, the situation wont be as easy as today. ... Ye Xiaoxian received the formal document and although her hands shook in fury, she still suppressed her anger. Li Hongmei also walked over. When she saw the document in Ye Xiaoxians hands, she was angry. This damn official is pushing us too far. Nine taels a month? Does think were running a winery? I dont think even a winery should pay that amount of money, right? Ye Xiaoxian smiled coldly. Little Ye, you still smile? Li Hongmeis liver ached in rage. For our little eatery, Im not even sure that we can make nine taels of silver a month and now theyre asking us to pay that much! How can we maintain the business? Ye Xiaoxian tapped Li Hongmei on the shoulder and said, Ma, I believe theres retribution in this world. Lets wait and see! Li Hongmei was a bit confused at first but when she looked at Ye Xiaoxian, she suddenly discovered a kind of determination in her face. Ye Xiaoxian looked very calm which also influenced Li Hongmei, so she also felt somewhat reassured. Ye, you must havee up with a n, have you? Li Hongmei asked with high hopes. However, Ye Xiaoxian still smiled. I dont, but maybe Baoshan will have one. Lets wait for Baoshan toe back and then talk about it. Li Hongmei did not know what to say. Is Little so infuriated that shes be stupid? Or, she did not have any solution, so was simply throwing the problem to Xiao Baozhu. Nevertheless, it was not bad that Little Ye relied on Baoshan, which saved her from acting like a tough farm wife all the time. If she continued like this, maybe she would forget that she had a husband. ... At the Wong Family. Xiao Baozhus life was still the same. She did family chores everyday and watched Schr Wong and Qin Qingqing being all lovey-dovey all the time which made her feel so hard done-by. In the beginning, Xiao Baozhu would secretly sob at night and exim about her miserable fate which was inferior than the upper-ss Qin Qingqing. But things had now changed. Thest time Ye Xiaoxian came and talked to her, she had get rid of her pathetic appearance. Although she still did the heavy chores and Schr Wongs little maid still bullied her, she had stopped sobbing at night and waited for her counter revolution. When spring almost reached its end, Xiao Baozhu finally waited for her opportunity! At the end of each spring the Wongs would get their family ounts sorted out. The Wongs had crop fields, shops and also hired workers, so each entry of the ies and payments needed calcting clearly. Each year at around this time Lord Wong and the butler would be busy and struggling with a tall stack of ounting books. They had no other way out, as people who could read were rare in this era and all the workers here were hired to do manualbor and could not even read a single character, so naturally reading ounting books had to be done by them and not their workers. Schr Wong, however, knew how to read but he had spent the whole spring together with Qin Qingqing. He did not help with family matters at all. Even though his family were extremely busy now he still only spent time with Qin Qingqing. How Lord Wong wished that he could count on everyone who knew about ounting. On that day Xiao Baozhu passed the front hall by ident and saw Lord Wong and two butlers using the abacus to do the ounting. Perhaps Lord Wong was overworked, as he was in such a mess. When he had just got something done he would forget something else right away. What was more, Xiao Baozhu was stilling pestering him, so Lord Wong said impatiently, What are you doing here? Dont you see that were busy? Xiao Baozhu was carrying a basin and a cloth to wipe the furniture. She bowed then asked, My lord, I actually know how to do ounting. You? Lord Wong looked at Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baozhu hurriedly rmended herself for the position. Yes, my sister-inw owns a restaurant and I managed the ounts for her for a while. I can read, use the abacus and know how to calcte from the ounting book. Lord Wong looked at Butler Wong beside him who said, It seems true. She used to stand behind the counter and should know how to calcte. Lord Wong said, Well, I cant care that much. As you can calcte, do this book for me and let me see if you can get it right. Xiao Baozhu immediately put the basin and the wipe cloth down. She took the ounting book and leafed through the pages. These bookkeepers were not very literate either and their handwriting was rushed and messy. She had to look really carefully to read it. It was no wonder that this had Lord Wong and Butler Wong going mad. If this had happened to Xiao Baozhu in the past, she would have also gone mad. However, she now knew that this was the only chance for her. If she could not take it, her life in the future would remain painful and maybe she would be chased back home. Xiao Baozhu simply threw all caution to the wind, grabbed the abacus and began to calcte each entry. When she was in the restaurant she could use the abacus well. With the shorthand and ssifying skills taught to her by Ye Xiaoxian, she calcted while fiddling with the abacus as if she were more proficient than Butler Wong. This side of Xiao Baozhu shocked both Lord Wong and Butler Wong and they were stunned. Xiao Baozhu quickly finished one book. She handed the result to Lord Wong. My Lord, Ive done it. Please check it. The ounting book Lord Wong asked Xiao Baozhu to do was one he had already finished. He was not so stupid that would ask Xiao Baozhu to do the ounting right away, so he gave Xiao Baozhu one he had already done in order to test if she could get it right and how long it would take her. He did not expect that Xiao Baozhu would be twice as fast him and that the result she got would be the same as his. Lord Wong once again looked at Xiao Baozhu and asked her, You can read and calcte so why should youe to our family? Youre not having a nice life here and didnt sign a life-long contract, so you can go at anytime but why dont you go? Xiao Baozhu knelt down in front of Lord Wong looking timid. I was such a fool to do a thing like that. Even if I go back I will beughed at by the others. Id rather grow old and finally die in the Wong family. But Yanbo doesnt like you. Its alright. I dont have wild hopes that he might fall for me. Im satisfied as long as I can see him everyday. When Xiao Baozhu said this she looked rather determined. Under the circumstances she actually did not know if she did all this for Schr Wong or for the insult she had suffered. In short, she did not want to leave because she wanted to be something in the Wong family. Seeing her like this Lord Wong did not ask much but said to one of his workers, Go to Yanbos courtyard and let them know that this...Xiao girl wont go back today. She is staying to sort out the ounting books for us. Xiao Baozhus eyes shone brightly. Chapter 138 - Concubine Baozhu

Chapter 138: Concubine Baozhu

Xiao Baozhu did not return to her quarters for a whole day. At dawn Schr Wongs maid, Zhi, was confused as to why Xiao Baozhu still had note back. As Xiao Baozhu had been there for a long time and still had not gained Schr Wongs favor, Zhi did not take her seriously. However, the family had taken care of Xiao Baozhu, so Zhi did not dare to go too far as she worried if the kitchen staff might secretly y a dirty trick on her. She therefore started to iste Baozhu in their quarters and ignored her thoroughly. Qin Qingqings maid, Cui, had also had her eye on Xiao Baozhu from the beginning as she was afraid that Xiao Baozhu would attract Schr Wongs attention if she didnt watch her. However, several months had passed and Schr Wong did not show a bit of interest in Xiao Baozhu, so Cui started rxing her vignce and just served Qin Qingqing attentively. On this day, Cui went out from the room and saw Zhi looking around outside alone, so she asked Zhi, What are you doing here? Seeing that it was Cui, Zhi quickly lowered her head to greet her. Although Cui was also a servant she was the handmaid of Qin Qingqing, so her status was far higher than Zhis, so Zhi had to bow whenever she saw Cui. Miss Cui, Im waiting for Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baozhu? Has she note back yet? asked Cui. Not yet, I dont know where she cks off and havent seen her all day. This yard is only so big yet you cant find a single person? said Cui despisingly. Just go out and ask. ... Although Lord Wong had sent someone here to exin where Baozhu was, they had only told Schr Wong, but Schr Wong did not care at all where Xiao Baozhu went. All he cared about was Qin Qingqing. They had been married for such a long time but his passion towards Qin Qingqing still had not decreased. He looked at Qin Qingqing everyday, read with her and appreciated flowers with her. They had quite a colorful life. Therefore, even though he had received this message, Schr Wong did not take it seriously. Cui and Zhi searched around outside, discovering that Xiao Baozhu was in fact doing the ounting job in the front hall. They were both extremely surprised. Zhi was afraid that Xiao Baozhu would be a threat to her while Cui was worried that Xiao Baozhu would threaten herdys position. They went back feeling uneasy. When Cui came back she told this to Qin Qingqing. However, Qin Qingqing was too spoiled by Schr Wong, so she did not take it to heart. If Xiao Baozhu could do the ounts, she should just go for it. It was good that someone could help her father-inw with all of that work. Cui felt rather helpless but could not persuade herdy. ... At night, Xiao Baozhu finally returned. She waste returning because she had eaten dinner at Lord Wongs ce and afterwards had busied herself in work for a while. Lord Wong had asked her toe over the next day also. When Xiao Baozhu got back, Zhi asked her tentatively, You went to our lords ce? Yes. Xiao Baozhu had been busy for a whole day and both her head and her body were worn out, so she did not want to speak much. Zhi said, So our lord arranged some work for you to do? Nothing important. Xiao Baozhu did not want to say too much. Zhi could not keep inquiring. She just felt that Xiao Baozhu had be different from her. ... As Zhi had anticipated, after Xiao Baozhu had gone to do the work for a few days, Lord Wong found her talented and qualified enough to be put in an important position in the family. He believed that Xiao Baozhu was not likely to betray their family. If she were so inclined then she would have left a long time ago rather than remaining with them until now. It was just that Xiao Baozhus current status was rather awkward. As a woman she could not run around outside with Butler Wong and could only stay at home to manage the ounts, but the one who could do this job must be either a butler or a master in this family. In this case, it would better for Xiao Baozhu to be his sons concubine. Thinking about this, Lord Wong informed his family decisively that from today on, Xiao Baozhu was promoted to be a concubine of a status second only to Qin Qingqing. Chapter 139 - Solving This Problem for Me Chapter 139: Solving This Problem for Me Since being promoted to a concubine, Xiao Baozhu had stopped living with the servants. She now had a room in a separate wing and could order around the maid, Zhi. Meanwhile, she did not need to do any hard manualbor, she just had to help Butler Wong manage the ounting books and calcte the family expenses. In the beginning Lord Wong would help them do the ounting, but since getting Xiao Baozhu involved he could not be bothered to do such work. He asked Xiao Baozhu to get them done first and then just pass them to him to check over. He also began to take Xiao Baozhu seriously. He stopped asking Xiao Baozhu to do chores and paid her wages every month, so Xiao Baozhu could use the money to buy some cosmetics. Ye Xiaoxian had told her that women must pay more attention to keeping fit. Xiao Baozhus clothing improved too. Before, when she did all the manual work, she could not wear good clothes in case they would be dirtied or torn, but now, as she had be a concubine and also had a monthly wage, she could dress up decently everyday. Xiao Baozhu became radiant all of a sudden and had changed dramatically. All the servants in the family dared not look down on her anymore. However, even so, Schr Wong still did not bother toy his eyes on her. He continued giving all of his affection and attention to Qin Qingqing. He thought that Qin Qingqing was not sophisticated. Qin Qingqing was originally like a precious crystal-clear jade, but Xiao Baozhu, though she had be a concubine, was still like a jade left in the rock. Despite containing the jade, a rock was still a rock. Schr Wong wrote poems for Qin Qingqing, describing her as, Slender eyebrows like autumn brooks, her jade-like skin as gentle as the breeze. He still stayed with Qin Qingqing all day long and with intense affection. Cui was originally on guard against Xiao Baozhu butter on she found that Schr Wong still treated herdy very well and never even looked at Xiao Baozhu, so Cui felt reassured. That day, Xiao Baozhu came out from her room. Spring had ended and it was now already summer. She stretched her arms drowsily first and looked at the sunlight streaming down on a Chinese rose, above which a colorful butterfly was fluttering around. The whole scene looked very beautiful. Xiao Baozhu faced the pleasant day coupled with the fine scenery and eximed: Its true that Fate is fickle. If you are not determined to do something, youll never know what kind of person youll be. Justst year she had still been a vige girl who went to the mountains to chop firewood. Fortunately her sister-inw came out to sell cold jelly and taught her how to read and calcte. During her time with the Wongs, although she had a hard time before, her personality and determination had been polished which made her grow strong and sophisticated. From now on nothing could defeat her. After eximing this, Xiao Baozhu saw Zhi carrying a broom and going to clean the yard. Chi also spotted Xiao Baozhu and rolled her eyes and mumbled: Humph, the power is given to a lowly person. Xiao Baozhu smiled and walked towards Zhi. I have some used clothes in my room. Why dont you take and wash them. Zhi heard this and cocked her head to look at Xiao Baozhu. You want me to wash your clothes? Is there a problem? asked Xiao Baozhu. Zhi was so furious that she clenched her fist tight. After a short while, she sneered. Youre at most a concubine, not a wife. Your status is just a little higher than ours. You really treat yourself as ady? Even if youd like to treat yourself as ady, youd better check with our young master to see if he takes you seriously or not. Xiao Baozhu smiled coldly. Whether I treat myself as ady or not is one thing, but you dont treat yourself as a servant. Zhi, dont think that I dont know what youve done before. There used to be a jade vase in young masters room which he seldom used. Later on it somehow went missing. It was you who took and pawn it, right? There was also a cosmos nt ced in the yard which has gone missing too. You told Young Master that the nt died but it was you again who took it and sold it. Also, when you washed clothes, you picked up a jade pendant and you also lied about it saying that it went missing...Besides, you have also stolen the leftovers in the kitchen for your gluttonous andzy brother. Have you forgot about all of this? You...Xiao Baozhu, youre monitoring me! Zhi trembled with rage. Xiao Baozhu sneered. I couldnt do anything about it before because I was also a servant whose words wouldnt be taken seriously, but now things are different. Im with his lordship everyday and whether you can still stay and work here all depends on me. Seeing Zhi not daring to make a sound Xiao Baozhu then smiled. So about the clothes in my room, will you wash them or not? After a while Zhi finally bit her lip and said, Right, Ill wash them! As Zhi carried the dirty clothes out, Xiao Baozhu raised her hands and looked at them and then said, Ive done so many chores and youve be so rough. Ill take good care of you from now on. ... Little Ye, Baozhu sent someone to deliver a message to us today! In The Xiaos Cuisine, when Ye Xiaoxian had just arrived at the restaurant, Li Hongmei happily told her the news about Xiao Baozhu. Baozhu sent someone here? What did she say? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Baozhu said that shes now been promoted to a concubine. She doesnt need to do chores anymore and she just needs to do the ounting everyday. She doesnt need to do anything else and even her clothes get washed by others. Li Hongmei was so excited that tears rolled down her face. Ye Xiaoxian asked, Baozhu sent someone to say this? Is it true? Yes, it is. An attendant of the Wongs came to deliver the message. Apart from the message, Baozhu also asked him to bring us some things which were bought with her wages. Oh, Baozhu has suffered so much and finally is no longer a maid having to do manualbor. Ye Xiaoxian smiled and also felt happy for Baozhu. Ma, Baozhu is a smart girl. She knows what she wants and also knows how to n for herself, so we dont have to be worried about her. But you dont know, in my heart, ah..tely Ive been worrying about her all the time but the Wong family is so arrogant that they dont even let us see Baozhu. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Now Baozhu has be a concubine you should be able to go there. Ma, if youre still worried, you can drop in on her in the afternoon. Are you going too? asked Li Hongmei. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. I wont go this time. I want to go to the dock to find Baoshan. I wonder if hes there. Li Hongmei smiled mischievously. You miss Baoshan? Its been a long time, of course I miss him, said Ye Xiaoxian frankly. Good, then Ill go to find Baozhu and you go to meet Baoshan! Li Hongmei was overjoyed. ... In the afternoon Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei split up to go in their different directions. Ye Xiaoxian had got changed into some casual clothes and used a kerchief to cover her face. She dressed herself just like an ordinary farm wife. When she went out alone she could not be too careful. It was all hustle and bustle around the dock and the river was covered with ships. Ye Xiaoxian remembered Xiao Baoshan had mentioned that what he was in charge of were ships traveling great distances and such ships were usually big, so Ye Xiaoxian just needed to go to the big ships to look for Xiao Baoshan. As expected, she saw Xiao Baoshan in the distance. The tall and strong Xiao Baoshan was patrolling in the dock. He looked outstanding among all the tradesmen and porters. Ye Xiaoxians lips curved involuntarily. After a while she managed to walk up behind of Xiao Baoshan and tapped his shoulder. Xiao Baoshan turned around and saw Ye Xiaoxian. His face responded as if it had been covered with a thinyer of ice which instantly melted in the warm sun. Little Ye, howe you came here? Xiao Baoshan pulled her hands towards him and looked very affectionate. Cant Ie? Ye Xiaoxian asked in reply. Of course you can, but you dont want toe to this ce too often. Luckily Im not going to sail today, but if I did, you wouldnt have found me. There are all kinds of people at the dock and Im worried that youll be bullied. Ye Xiaoxian said, Its also crowed in the restaurant, isnt it? There are many kinds of people there also but do you ever see me afraid? Its different. You have Ma, Little Five, Little Six and others, and the uncles also patrol around there asionally, but its different at the dock. If you have an ident, others wont even know who you are so how will they find your family? Ye Xiaoxian pouted her lips and acted like a spoiled child. But what if Im bullied in the restaurant as well? Will you step forward for me? Xiao Baoshan indeed became tense. Are you being bullied? Who did it? A bad guy! Is it the tax official fromst time? The one who asked you to cook at the government office? Ye Xiaoxian could not help but show her surprise. Baoshan, how do you know? Since he asked you to cook, I already kind of suspected him. Little Ye, tell me, how did he bully you? If he threatened you, Ill deal with him. An eye for an eye. If he did something against your will, Ill kill him! There was a killing spirit radiating from Xiao Baoshans eyes. Even Ye Xiaoxian felt a bit chilled by him. Its a long story. Ye Xiaoxian saw that the dock was packed with people and here a man and a woman standing together tended to be watched closely by others. Indeed, not far away Skinny Monkey began to whistle towards them. Xiao Baoshan immediately said, Wait for me here and Ill go and talk to Third Xing. ... When Xiao Baoshan took Ye Xiaoxian to leave the dock, Third Xing was standing there looking at their backs. Third Xing folded his arms, squinted and said to Skinny Monkey beside him, Xiao Baoshan was actually very nice to his wife. Skinny Monkey said, More than nice. When his wife came, Xiao Baoshan almost turned into another person, like a big fool, and didnt care about anything else around him. Third Xing shook his head and clicked his tongue. Its not good for him to have an Achilles heal. What does that mean? asked Skinny Monkey. Third Xing did not answer but only said to Skinny Monkey, As Xiao Baoshan is absent, you go and guard his quarters then. ... In the courtyard Ye Xiaoxian was sitting on Xiao Baoshansp and told him the entire story of how Fang Shanding bullied her. It wasnt her who insisted on sitting on Xiao Baoshansp, it was Xiao Baoshan who made her sit there. He said that they had not met for a long while and had missed her so much already at the dock, so Ye Xiaoxian must sit in his arms. It was nice to be held like that anyway as she had been in a bad mood the past few days over the nine-tael tax. Now she saw Xiao Baoshan and was in his arms, which made her feel relived. Hearing Ye Xiaoxians story Xiao Baoshan felt so sorry and stroked her face, saying to her gently, Little Ye, youve suffered a lot these days. So, can you solve this problem for me? Ye Xiaoxian was being both affectionate and urging him. As your husband, of course I will step forward for you. How? Xiao Baoshan smiled. Dont worry. I have my own way. Ye Xiaoxian poked his chest with her finger and then said coquettishly, Then you must keep your promise, otherwise I wont let you in my room. ... Xiao Baoshan was turned on so much by what Ye Xiaoxian said. He wrapped his arms around her tightly and said, Your husband always keeps his promises! In order to get into her room, he would surely do his best. Chapter 140 - What Kind of Trick Is It This Time?

Chapter 140: What Kind of Trick Is It This Time?

That night someone slipped into the government office stealthily. He was as light as a bird and hid himself from the guards easily. He finally managed to slip into the tax officials office, lit a candle and, after opening the tax books, began to read carefully. He had read over them for about four hours. He then extracted several typical tax books and put the rest back as if no one had ever read them. ... On the second day, Xiao Baoshan took those tax books to the provincial city. After wandering around in the city for a while, Xiao Baoshan spotted an opportunity. When the chief inspector was drinking tea in the tea house, he secretly passed the tax books to the chief inspector. The chief inspector found some tax books had suddenly appeared on his table, which he felt was rather strange. After browsing the contents he understood something. It must be some people who had been wronged but had no other way to get justice, so they must have passed the evidence to him while he was drinking tea. He drank tea in this tea house every day and there were always some people came, whether to sue others or to give evidence. Well, Ill send someone to Qinghe to investigate. ... Ye Xiaoxian had been waiting for Xiao Baoshan at home for two days before he arrived back. When Xiao Baoshan came in Ye Xiaoxian was making seasonings in the yard. Seeing Xiao Baoshan return she quickly stood up. Have you done it? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan answered inly, Perhaps! Why perhaps? Youve either done it or you havent, said Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan did not say much but walked straight over to Ye Xiaoxian and looked at her as if there were mes in his eyes. Ye Xiaoxian was stunned. What does he mean by this? Why does he look a bit scary? Xiao Baoshan put down his rice hat and the rest of the things in his hands and then he suddenly held Ye Xiaoxian. What, what are you doing? Ye Xiaoxian looked at him and asked. Why didnt Xiao Baoshan look foolish now? He actually looked a bit fierce. Xiao Baoshan immediately picked her up. What did you promise your husband? Have you forgotten? ... Ye Xiaoxian wanted to ask, What about yours? Have you done it? However, seeing him like this she dared not say anything but pointed at the room next to them. Xiao Baoshan happened not to see this and thought that Ye Xiaoxian was pointing at his room. My room? Sure. He then carried Ye Xiaoxian and was going to go to his room. At that moment Li Hongmei opened the door with a squeak and walked out. Looking at what was going on in front of her, Li Hongmei was in a daze first and then said, Ah, my poor eyesight, everything seems blurry to me now. Id better go back to my room to grind the seasonings. Xiao Baoshan looked at Ye Xiaoxian while Ye Xiaoxian was also looking at him. Why is Ma also here? said Xiao Baoshan. Shes here to help me grind the seasonings, said Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan paused and then said, Still, lets go to my room. You... She hadnt seen him for two days and felt that Xiao Baoshan had be very naughty. Li Hongmei stayed in her room and heard the yful giggling from next door. She finally used two cotton balls to block her ears. ... After five days, someone was asking to see Ye Xiaoxian in the restaurant. It was still the subordinate of the tax official. Ye Xiaoxian was not happy to see him as she thought that Fang Shanding was here to pick on her again, however, the man said, Miss Ye, Im here with a new document. You just need to pay two taels of silver in tax, as usual. Why? asked Ye Xiaoxian in surprise. She thought that Fang Shanding was going to y some other tricks but the man said, We have a new tax official now. Chapter 141 - A New Tax Official? Chapter 141: A New Tax Official? Youve got a new tax official? Ye Xiaoxian was surprised. The subordinate said, Please sign here and in the future, when we collect your taxes, you just need to hand in two taels of silver. Right, I see! said Ye Xiaoxian. When she went back to the backyard, Ye Xiaoxian read the document carefully and she had a hunch that it must have been Xiao Baoshan who did this. She just did not know how he had done it. This man could always surprise her. ... Ye Xiaoxian just breathed a sigh a relief but Sister Xiang of Jui was not pleased. Her tax used to be two taels of sliver per month but now it had been increased to four taels. The new tax official went to find her but she found an excuse, saying that her hand hurt and she could not sign the document. She then turned to the chief of the government office. The chief was also utterly exhausted from overwork. The superior all of a sudden sent someone to investigate, iming that there was some problem with the calction of taxes in their town. Although the royal government regarded agriculture as being more important thanmercial business and had business owners paying more taxes than farmers, still, there were rules in the government. They should charge the proper amount of taxes instead of abusing their authority. Also, the subordinate sent by the superior had evidence. He showed the evidence to the chief. A small restaurant was charged nine taels of silver while a hotel was only charged two taels. Now it seemed to be correct. The chief looked at it and the hotel mentioned was none other than Jui Hotel. Back then, it was he who approved that Sister Xiang could only pay two taels of silver for their taxes. The subordinate also added, Now that the political situation of the royal government is not stable, several of the royal princes are fighting over the emperors position. Each of them is thinking hard about revealing the faults of the others. In that case, they can attack each other in front of the emperor. Thend where we live is in the charge of Prince Jing. If other princes realize such a thing is happening in Prince Jings district, they will tend to take this matter as an example and exaggerate its influence in the royal government. Yes, yes. I understand. The chief said rather nervously. If so, you should straighten things out carefully, said the subordinate. The chief certainly would straighten things out carefully, wouldnt he? He removed Fang Shanding from office, hired a new tax official and investigated the tax books thoroughly to check if there was any more inappropriate content. Once he found any discrepancies, he would correct them immediately. When Sister Xiang came, the chief was still not avable, so Sister Xiang went back and returned there again at night. The chief was having dinner at that time. He guessed that Sister Xiang hade to discuss her taxes. He did not want to see her at first but finally did not have the heart to ignore her, so he met her right away. Sir, its sote and youre just having dinner? Sister Xiang sounded dearly sorry. When the chief saw Sister Xiang, his heart softened immediately. He had no family in Qinghe. All his assistants and guards were men, so there was not a single one around who cared about him. Mhmm, I was just eating. I was so busy today that I feel dizzy. Have you eaten? asked the chief. Sister Xiang then put on a sad puppy look. I didnt really. How can I have the appetite? Today a new tax official showed up out of blue saying that my hotel needs to pay four taels a month in tax. Sir, youve promised me, havent you? You said that my hotel was an exception and I could only pay two taels of silver per month. The chief then became a bit excited. When he spoke he kept spitting out bits of rice. Youve paid two taels a month for two years already. Think about it. How much money have you saved already? Now my superior has sent someone to investigate. You know Fang Shanding, right? Ive already dismissed him. What else do you want me to do? Sister Xiang had several grains of rice on her face but she did not have the time to wipe them off. She just asked with confusion, Even Fang Shanding was dismissed? Its that serious? Thats right, so I cant think about your matter now! Sir, so now... Im being worked to death now. Dont you see that I didnt have dinner until now? said the chief sulkily. Well...well then, lets not talk about it until the trouble is solved. Sigh, doing business right now is so difficult. Competitors are everywhere. Im just a woman with no one to turn to and my situation is extremely difficult... While talking, tears began to roll down her face. She looked disappointed. The chief could not refuse this the most. The reason he liked Sister Xiang was because she was independent, had her own mind and was determined. In such an era it was rare to see a woman who would dare to run a business and also be sessful with it. Sister Xiang was at least far better than his wife who was like a fierce female tiger. All this female tiger did was tell him off. Once she went outside she would be meek. She also just knew to ask him for money and held a tight grip on the family expenses. She could in no way bepared with the seductive Sister Xiang. Who says you have no one to turn to? You still have me, dont you? said the chief. Sir, do you really care about me? asked Sister Xiang. If I didnt care about you, why would I have let you in thiste? Your hotel is suspected of tax evasion yet Im still with you. Im risking a lot too! Sister Xiang knew best when topromise and stop being too headstrong. As the chief put it like this she should not continue to push him on the matter. Sir, you must be exhausted today. Shall I rub your forehead for you. It can help you to rx, said Sister Xiang. Youre so considerate. If only everyone else was as considerate as you and wouldnt cause any trouble for me. The chief looked at Sister Xiang, feeling very protective of her and then wiped the rice off for her. Sister Xiang asked the chief to lie down and she started to massage his temples. When the chief waspletely rxed, Sister Xiang asked, Sir, but why did the superior suddenly send someone to investigate the whole thing? Where did they get the evidence? The chief closed his eyes and enjoyed the massage while speaking. I guess it must be someone against us who went to inform them. Who? asked Sister Xiang. Its either someone who hates Fang Shanding or who benefits from this matter. Sister Xiang asked, Who would benefit? Dozens of people. The most obvious one is the one who cooked for us days ago. The name is...The Xiaos something... The Xiaos Cuisine? Thats right. Their taxes have been decreased from nine to two taels. I wonder how she provoked Fang Shanding to raise their taxes that high. It would have been strange if such a thing didnt draw the superiors attention. Sister Xiang pondered on it and said, Sir, I know how that Miss Ye provoked Fang Shanding. Oh? How is that? asked the chief. Ah, well, what else could it be except those matters between men and women. Sister Xiang smiled faintly and her eyes were rolling up and down. ... The next day. Sister Xiang went to the west area of the town. She had inquired and found out that Fang Shanding lived around there. When she arrived, it took no time for her to find where The Fangs were located. It was a pretty smart house and one could see the luxuriantly green trees from outside. Even thenterns hung at the gate were made of the finest paper. Even though Fang Shanding did not work for the government he still had earnings. He had fields and shops and would not die of hunger. Sister Xiang knocked on the door and before long someone came to open it. They seemed to be the servant. After another while a woman came out carrying a child. When she saw Sister Xiang, she asked her with some confusion, Who might you be? Im the manager of Jui Hotel. I came here to have a word with Lord Fang. The womans face became grave. Hes not a lord anymore. Please dont say this. This is your little son, right? Ah, so adorable. Sister Xiang looked at the toddler wrapped in nkets. She also teased him. Sister Xiang did not have a child herself, so once she saw a baby she always could not help touching them. Thank you. The woman stepped back and then went in to call Fang Shanding. Fang Shanding had perhaps drunk a bit and smelled very strong. When he saw Sister Xiang, he said flippantly, Why arent you with the chief? Why are you looking for me? Can you talk properly? asked Sister Xiang. If you cant, Ill go now and you can find me when youre sober. Fang Shanding stopped her. If you have something to say just say it. Dont keep me in suspense. Sister Xiang said, Nothing big. I just wanted to ask you why someone took your evidence? How should I know? said Fang Shanding. He had been dismissed quite suddenly. The reason chief gave him was due to twisting thew to suit his own purposes. He knew very clearly what he had done. In all these years he had earned a lot of uwful money in that position. Therefore, he dared not ask about the details. He counted himself lucky for not being thrown in jail, so how he could dare to ask so much. Sister Xiang said, Ive asked the chief. There must be someone who has informed the superior against you. The informant is the benefactor in this case and the biggest benefactor is The Xiaos Cuisine. They needed to pay nine taels of silver but now they only need to pay two taels. If I were them. I wouldve be an informant too. So you mean Miss Ye is the informant? asked Fang Shanding. Sister Xiang smiled mysteriously. I didnt say that its definite. Figure it out yourself. Sister Xiang turned around and left after she had finished talking. Fang Shanding stood there for a long time. Perhaps this matter did have something to do with Ye Xiaoxian. ... Fang Shanding still had some acquaintances in town. He firstly asked someone to investigate if Ye Xiaoxian had gone to the provincial city recently. They somehow understood that Xiao Baoshan had gone to the provincial city and had stayed there for two days. After he had gone back, the superior had then sent someone over. Humph, it seemed that Ye Xiaoxian must indeed be involved in this matter. ... At dusk Fang Shanding went to Ye Xiaoxians restaurant and specially asked Li Hongmei to call Ye Xiaoxian over. Li Hongmei went to the kitchen to find Ye Xiaoxian and asked Ye Xiaoxian to quickly leave via the back door in case Fang Shanding picked on her. Ye Xiaoxian thought for a while and then shook her head. Ma, even if I can avoid him today, I may not avoid him tomorrow. As he wants to see me, he will always find a way. I didnt do anything immoral and am not afraid of him causing trouble for me. Little Ye... Li Hongmei thought, Why Little Ye is so stubborn now? She dares to see anyone and deals with everything by herself. Ye Xiaoxian calmly went up to the booth on the second floor. When she saw Fang Shanding she smiled briefly. It turns out that Lord Fang hase? Lord Fang, is it that our dishes are not to your liking so you called me over? Fang Shanding looked at Ye Xiaoxian coldly and then said in disgust, Youre so good at acting dumb. Acting dumb? I dont understand. Lord Fang, please enlighten me. You clearly know that I was removed from the office and you still call me Lord. Are you not acting dumb? Ah? Sir, youve been dismissed? My goodness, is it that youve done something evil and others have found out? Ye Xiaoxian looked surprised and sympathetic. Fang Shanding was left speechless. In fury he gripped the cup tightly in his hand. Chapter 142 - Wanting to Finish off Xiao Baoshan Chapter 142: Wanting to Finish off Xiao Baoshan Your husband went to the provincial city a few days ago, right? Did he steal something? asked Fang Shanding. Ye Xiaoxian said, Sir, my husband makes a living by sailing with ships. He not only went to the provincial city but also a lot of other ces. Sir, did you just say something about stealing things? My husband is honest and humble. He would never steal anything. If he had ever stolen anything, it must have been her heart. Fang Shanding sneered. Your taxes have been decreased, right? Talking about the tax, I also feel very curious. It was raised some time before and then decreased. Ive been confused about it. Dont tell me it will be increased again tomorrow. This is the only w of doing business in Qinghe and it keeps me being on tenterhooks all the time. Seeing Ye Xiaoxians behavior he started to be increasingly sure that she was acting dumb. He fixed his eyes on Ye Xiaoxian and tried to tear her mask of deceit off. However, Ye Xiaoxian was very calm and just asked him with a confused expression, Sir, is there anything else I can do for you? Fang Shanding said, Just a reminder for you. Though Im not a tax official now, dont you think I will be defeated like that. Ive still got some power in town, believe it or not, so lets wait and see. Ye Xiaoxian asked, Does this concern me? Fang Shanding sneered. No, it doesnt. Go and cook your dishes. Ye Xiaoxian bowed before she left. Right. Fang Shanding gripped his tea cup again. Ye Xiaoxian was a hot little pepper and he wanted to subdue her imposing manner. ... During the course of the next few days, Fang Shanding was constantly walking around at the dock. He was observing Xiao Baoshan secretly. As it happened Xiao Baoshan did not have to go sailing and was taking care of the dock as usual. He also had a subordinate but most of the time he just stood on the dock quietly on his own and watched the shipse and go. His bearing was totally different from the ordinary men around him. Maybe this was the reason that Ye Xiaoxian was attracted by him. He was also very strong and younger than Fang Shanding. Fang Shanding was no match for him in this respect. On the third day, Fang Shanding was asking some men to tell him how good Xiao Baoshan was at fighting. The men Fang Shanding found deliberately caused trouble at the dock. When conflict started they would take the opportunity to attack Xiao Baoshan, saying that Xiao Baoshan was nosy. Xiao Baoshan had already noticed them for quite some time. Despite causing trouble they somehow watched him from the corners of their eyes, so Xiao Baoshan realized that maybe this gang of men were checking him out. He deliberately only used thirty percent of his capability to subdue them. When the gang were subdued they begged for mercy immediately and said that they would not do it again, asking Xiao Baoshan to spare them. Xiao Baoshan went easy on them and let them go after criticizing them for a while. The men sent by Fang Shanding went to report to him after a short while. They said that Xiao Baoshans kung fu was not particrly impressive. As long as he found an ordinary killer from outside, he could kill Xiao Baoshan easily. Fang Shanding pinched his chin and a kind of cruelty shone in his eyes. ... Fang Shanding was familiar with people throughout various careers. It took him no time to find a killer known as Dragon. Dragon was a one-eyed dragon. One of his eyes was covered by an eyepatch and the other eye wasnt able to focus properly. When he spoke with Fang Shanding, Fang Shanding kept feeling that he was looking somewhere else and could not meet his eye at all. Besides, Dragon directly asked him for ten taels of sliver. As he was introduced by an acquaintance, Fang Shanding did not doubt him at all. Though his heart ached from spending that amount of money. Still, once he thought about the job he had lost and therge amount of ie he had therefore been deprived of he felt a burning hatred towards Xiao Baoshan. He nned to kill Xiao Baoshan first and then take Ye Xiaoxian. Chapter 143 - Why Are You Still Here? Chapter 143: Why Are You Still Here? Fang Shanding made a deal with Dragon. He must kill Xiao Baoshan within seven days. Meanwhile, Fang Shanding gave Xiao Baoshans portrait to Dragon and told him that Xiao Baoshan was working in the dock. When Dragon got the portrait, he nced at it with one eye, which made Fang Shandings heart suddenly skip a beat. When Dragon had looked at him just now he felt like he was looking somewhere else, but now, when Dragon looked at the portrait, Fang Shanding felt that Dragon was looking at him. This made Fang Shanding feel rather uneasy and wondered if this Dragon guy was really able to kill Xiao Baoshan. In short, Fang Shanding did not have much faith in him. Dragon also sensed Fang Shandings doubt, so he was thinking of showing off some of his moves in front of Fang Shanding. He suddenly jumped high up, aimed at a little tree beside them and shed it hard. The tree was instantly sliced in half down the middle. Fang Shanding was shocked and speechless, so he then paid the money without hesitation. When Dragon went back on his way, he started unfolding the portrait and looked at it carefully. The moment he saw the portrait clearly, his one eye opened wide all of a sudden. Xiao Baoshan? ... At the dock. Xiao Baoshan also went sailing with a ship today. On this trip they would go to a town a thousand miles away. What they were carrying was a shipment of cotton cloth made in the south. Just as they set out he heard Seven talking to him. Brother Baoshan, a boat is following behind us. I know! Xiao Baoshan was standing peacefully on the bow of the ship. However, he was paying attention to their surroundings the whole time. I think the boat looks very strange, said Seven. Xiao Baoshan only said, Seven, stay calm. Okay, Xiao Baoshan is always calm like this. One time in the previous month they had gone sailing when pirates had showed up in front of them, though Xiao Baoshan still asked Seven to remain calm. Just then the ship behind them suddenly sped up. They had two boatmen rowing and panting and they caught up in no time. Seven was horrified. Baoshan, theyve caught up with us and the guy has one eye. He, he...hase up. In the small boat, Dragon used his lightness kung fu and reached Xiao Baoshans ship quickly. Apart from Xiao Baoshan and Seven, there were still two subordinates of the ship owner. Seeing someone suddenly jump up on deck, the two ordinates were so scared that they began to shout for help. Pirates! Pirates! Before long, some other men who could fight came up on the deck, but they dared not step up and fight but just observed the situation from a distance. They hoped that Xiao Baoshan could make the move and go to fight as, after all, Xiao Baoshan was paid to protect them. However, Xiao Baoshan did not speak and simply looked at Dragon. Dragon was looking at Seven the whole time. Seven was so scared that his legs gave out and he copsed to the deck. Actually, Dragon was staring at Xiao Baoshan. Dragon. Baoshan! The two of them spoke at the same time which shocked Seven on the other side. Seven asked, Baoshan, this guy, do you know him? Xiao Baoshan nodded. But why does he keep staring at me? Seven asked. He isnt looking at you. Hes looking at me, said Xiao Baoshan. Seven was speechless. Did his eyes or Dragons eye have some problem? Seven then stood a bit further away from his line of sight. As expected, Dragon stopped looking at him and it was clear where he was looking now. Then, then is he a good person or a bad person? Is he going to rob this ship? asked Seven. Dragon looked at Xiao Baoshan and said, Im not robbing the ship. Im here for Xiao Baoshan. He and I are old friends. Seven breathed a sigh of relief. Dragon added, But someone wants his head for ten taels of silver. ... Seven knelt down again. Xiao Baoshan asked Dragon, Who wants my head? Cant you figure it out for yourself? Who did you provoke recently? said Dragon. Ive provoked too many people. Who might it be? asked Xiao Baoshan. It was impossible for a man who went sailing with ships not to provoke others. Besides, even if he just stayed at the dock, he would still provoke someone. Dragon said, A person called Fang Shanding. So, its him, said Xiao Baoshan inly. When I took the job I didnt see your portrait clearly. He said it was someone called Xiao Baoshan. I felt that it sounded familiar. Later when I saw the portrait, I remembered you. Youre pretty forgetful too. Xiao Baoshan smiled. Not forgetful. I just didnt expect that Id meet you here and, more surprisingly, you actually came. Xiao Baoshan asked, Now youve found out it is me, are you still going to kill me? Dragon did not say that he would kill or not kill. He said, Ten taels is nowhere near enough for killing you. Your head is worth a whole city, Im afraid. Xiao Baoshan asked, So youre going back to ask him for more? No, Im going back to return the money. I quit! When it turned out like this, Seven felt relieved again. He quickly got up and said to the people behind him, Its just a misundertanding. Theyre friends and happen to see each other on their trips, so theye together to chat about the past. The others behind were not pleased. They happen to see each other on their trips? You think youre in the street? Youre now on a long river. This way of chatting about the past was too horrifying to the others. ... Xiao Baoshan and Dragon finally stopped standing there and talking. Instead, they sat down on the deck, took a small square table and poured some wine with a tray of peanuts. The two of them drank wine while chatting. The breeze on the river was cool. Baoshan, you havent answered my question yet. Why are you here? Why do you work on the dock? asked Dragon. Xiao Baoshanughed. I was born here, so where else should I go? Talking about you, you dont sound like a local, so why are you here yourself? Me? Ah, Im now an assassin, wandering around everywhere, so any ce is home for me. What kind of people do you kill? asked Xiao Baoshan. I dont kill often. When the client pays me I have to check out who they want me to kill. If I dont like the look of them I will kill them, but otherwise I wont. I seem to remember something someone once said. If an assassin is picky about his targets like prostitutes are picky about their clients, that way he will ruin his reputation, said Xiao Baoshan. Dragon was in a daze and gave a feeble look. Id say that work hasnt been going too well for you this past year or so. Youd never have said such things in the past. You used to be so majestic. You only talked about tactics and the military. Xiao Baoshan took a mouthful of his drink and did not answer Dragon. Dragon added, Do you really n to do this sailing work in the future? Nothing else? Actually going sailing with ships pays well. Ive earned much more than from any other job Ive done. I heard that youve also got a wife? asked Dragon. Yeah. Thinking about Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baoshans lips slightly curved with a smile. Dragon tutted. I would never have expected that. Its really so hard to predict things in this world. Xiao Baoshan ends up marrying and leading such a life. Well, does your wife know who you were before? She doesnt. Shes just an ordinary farm wife. If she knew, she might almost die of fright and obey every word you say. Dragonughed loudly. Chapter 144 - I Won’t Let Him Hurt You

Chapter 144: I Wont Let Him Hurt You That night, the ship pulled into a dock at one of the towns. The owner of the ship was going to disembark and get some rest. Xiao Baoshan and Seven had been hired to sail with the ship, so they had to stay aboard and guard it. Dragon also nned to head off.

He had already sailed there on another boat, but when he and Xiao Baoshan were happily chatting the boatman secretly turned around and left. By the time Dragon had realized this the boatman had already sailed into the distance. This was a long river. If it had not been very far away then he could have used his lightness kung fu to chase after it, however, by then it had been so far away that it would have been impossible to catch. Therefore, Dragon could only follow Xiao Baoshan the rest of the way to a strange ce. Dragon bid goodbye to Xiao Baoshan. Ill leave you for now. When I want to visit you again, Ill go to the dock to meet you. You didnt kill me so dont you have to go back and exin to Fang Shanding? asked Xiao Baoshan. No need. If I go back to exin I have to return the money to him. I wont return this money and will give part of it to you as an apology, as if from him. Dragon then fished out his money bag, took five taels of silver from it and gave it to Xiao Baoshan. Dragon was a wanderer in this world and his whereabouts were hard to predict, so Fang Shanding would not find him. After Dragon left, Xiao Baoshan held the five taels of sliver and quietly put it into his pocket. What a windfall! ... Fang Shanding waited more than ten days and did not hear from Dragon at all. He sent some people to wait at the dock and discovered that Xiao Baoshan had gone sailing with a ship. Fang Shanding thought to himself that Xiao Baoshan had not returned for quite some time, so he must have been killed on the voyage. However, after a couple of days, Fang Shandings men at the dock suddenly went to inform him that Xiao Baoshan had returned in one piece. Hows this possible? Had Dragon been killed by Xiao Baoshan? But he had asked his men to check out Xiao Baoshans kung fu and knew that Xiao Baoshan was not that capable. Furthermore, Dragon could slice a tree in half down the middle, so how could he not defeat Xiao Baoshan? Fang Shanding immediately sent someone to look for Dragon but he could not be found anywhere. Had Xiao Baoshan actually killed him instead? Even if he was not dead, as Dragon was a wanderer it would be extremely difficult to find him. The ten taels of silver seemed to have been wasted. Fang Shanding clenched his fist so furiously that his nails cut into his flesh. He could not believe that he was unable to think up a n to deal with them! ... Ye Xiaoxian normally did not mind whether Xiao Baoshan was home or not but this time was an exception. Not knowing why, she felt really fidgety staying at home for more than ten days on her own and her eyelids were twitching (considered in China to be an omen of evil). When Xiao Baoshan returned home he looked only a bit darker but otherwise had not changed much. Ye Xiaoxian suddenly found Xiao Baoshan so endearing. He went to sail with ships all day long and was constantly exposed to the sun and the wind. He was dark originally and if he did this job for a few more years, he might be as dark as coal. Many modern sailors were that dark. Little Ye, I brought you some textiles. This is Xiangyun satin. When its made into clothes and you put them on, the clothes will make a noise while you are walking, said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian knew this kind of satin. In modern times, some people used it to make chi-pao (a traditional dress) and it looked very posh to wear. Ye Xiaoxian did not ept the gift but just looked at Xiao Baoshans face, finding it so endearing. Being this dark he must have been sunburnt. It was summer now and the sun was fierce. They had no kind of sunscreen in this era. Little Ye, whats wrong? Xiao Baoshan did not know why Ye Xiaoxian was staring at him for such a long time. It must be that he had been gone for so long so she had missed him a lot. Baoshan, you go and take a rest in the bedroom. Ill cook something for you. Ill look after the fire for you then, said Xiao Baoshan. No need. You are either being exposed to the sun or roasted by the fire all day long. Dont you think youre dark enough? Ye Xiaoxian said unpleasantly. Ye Xiaoxian was about to go to the kitchen when Xiao Baoshan pulled her to stop. Xiao Baoshan smiled. So now my little wife finds me too dark to love? He held her in his arms tightly and her face almost reached his chest. I didnt mean that, said Ye Xiaoxian. She merely thought that she found him endearing. But youre burned. Its okay for a man to be a bit dark, said Xiao Baoshan as he looked at her. And youre just the opposite, youre getting fairer and fairer. I like you this way. Ye Xiaoxian blushed and said, Away with you. Ill go and cook. Little Ye. Xiao Baoshan stopped her again. What? Xiao Baoshan looked at her with affection in his eyes. Ive been away for almost two weeks and missed the dishes you cook very much. Ye Xiaoxian blushed again. Naughty! Ye Xiaoxian cooked three dishes and one soup for Xiao Baoshan. The dishes were steamed meat balls, red braised dried sausage and braised eggnts with an extra egg soup. It did not take Xiao Baoshan long to finish the meal and he also ate a bowl of rice in the middle. Ye Xiaoxian was eximing that it was hard for her to feed this guy when Xiao Baoshan suddenly took out several taels of silver from his bag and gave them to her. This is the money earned from this sailing. Twelve taels? Why this much? Ye Xiaoxian asked in surprise. Seven of them is my wage for sailing with the ship and the other five is a gift from someone. Whos so generous as to give you money? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Fang Shanding. Huh? Ye Xiaoxian was surprised. Xiao Baoshan then told her the whole story. He must know that I went to the provincial city to report him, so he hired a hit-man to kill me but it turned out that he knows me and doesnt have the heart to kill me. He then shared Fang Shandings money with me. Ye Xiaoxian heard this and was stunned. Although Xiao Baoshan told this story in a calm way and even made it sound a bit yful, Ye Xiaoxian did not find it amusing at all. She was worried sick. Baoshan, this is too dangerous for you! He sailed with ships and a hired killer was after him. What if the killer had not known him and happened to be more capable? Then Xiao Baoshan would have long been dead. Xiao Baoshan reached out his hand to stroke Ye Xiaoxians face andforted her. Dont worry. Ordinary people cant kill me. Now tell me about yourself. While I was away from home these past days, has anyonee to bully you? No, nobody has, said Ye Xiaoxian. You still have to be careful. I dont think Fang Shanding will give up there, said Xiao Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian felt a chill down her spine. Hiring an assassin to kill people was a big crime in modern times. What if she was really plotted against? Ye Xiaoxian felt a chill in the soles of her feet. Xiao Baoshan thought about it and said, I cant bear this. I have to go and warn Fang Shanding to keep away from you! How will you warn him? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan said, Naturally I will sneak into his house and teach him a lesson. Ye Xiaoxian said, You want to beat him up? Hell have to bleed a little, Xiao Baoshan said. Otheriwse it wont serve the purpose of frightening him. Of course, I will only do it to him and not harm his wives and children. Ye Xiaoxian then said in a loathing tone, Such a bold guy, you dont even know how to be flexible. Let me suggest a n. Oh? Little Ye, you have a n? Ye Xiaoxian came close to his ear and told him what to do. Chapter 145 - Bald Heads Like Boiled Eggs

Chapter 145: Bald Heads Like Boiled Eggs Fang Shanding could not deal with Xiao Baoshan, so he really was taking action to deal with Ye Xiaoxian. He may not be capable enough to provoke Xiao Baoshan but it must be doable to firstly get his hands on Ye Xiaoxian, right? As long as he asked someone to kidnap Ye Xiaoxian and then send Xiao Baoshan a message, by then surely it would not be as easy as winking for him to torture them.

Yes, his mind was made up! Fang Shanding decided to spend some more of his savings and hire someone to kidnap Ye Xiaoxian. The night before he nned to hire someone, a shadow suddenly appeared in Fang Shandings room. The shadow floated over to Fang Shandings bed. After a certain series of movements, the shadow jumped back out of the window. AhhAhhh ... The following day. Two sad shrill cries echoed across Fang Shandings yard. One was Fang Shandings cry and the other was his wifes. The two of them looked at each others head in both shock and fright. They had been shaved bald by someone overnight and had not noticed it at all. From the style of the haircuts, whoever had shaved them was clearly skilled in using a knife. After being shaved, both of their heads looked rather round like two boiled eggs. They both thought that they were dreaming and had to pinch each other to make sure they werent. However, this was not a dream at all and the pinching hurt. Fang Shandings wife immediately cried, Who on earth did this? Why they were so evil? Why they shave my hair? I didnt provoke anybody so why should they do this to me, Wahhh... Fang Shanding suddenly spotted a piece of paper on his duvet on which was written: He who is unjust is doomed to destruction. His hand suddenly trembled. It was fairly obvious to him who had done this. It must have been Xiao Baoshan! Xiao Baoshan had firstly escaped being killed by the hit-man and then had appeared in his room out of nowhere. This warning he had been given only told him one thing; if he still tried to deal with Ye Xiaoxian, he would die without knowing how. Fang Shanding felt a cold chill and then began to sweat. His wife also saw the piece of paper and felt both scared and angry. She kept punching her husband. Who on earth did you provoke? First you were dismissed from your job and now our hair is also...hurry up and tell me and well go and report this to the government. Fang Shanding said helplessly. Havent you learned anything from this? I was just removed from office and if we go to report this to the government, who will dare to do anything about it? So what should we do? Are we going to put up this? Fang Shandings wife had no idea what Fang Shanding did outside. Fang Shanding said, You dont have to mind so much. Just take care of our child and eventually things will get better. ... His wife felt so wronged. She had no hair at all and. Apart from taking care of her child at home, where else could she go? Fang Shanding originally had a priormitment with another group of people who were going to kidnap Ye Xiaoxian. However, after bing bald, he had to give up the idea. ... At home, Ye Xiaoxian also woke up in bed. She turned over to see Xiao Baoshan lying beside her, the man who was as strong as an ox. She suddenly felt so safe. She then simply put her head on hisrge pectoral muscles and asked softly, Youre back? Mhmm. When did you return? she asked while stroking his pecs with her finger. Before dawn. How did it go? asked Ye Xiaoxian again. I did what you told me to do. You didnt get caught, did you? she asked. Xiao Baoshan smiled. You must trust your husbands skills. He then rolled over and cuddled with Ye Xiaoxian, looking at her attentively. Ye Xiaoxian felt a little shy being stared at by him, so she blushed and asked him, What are you looking at me for? Little Ye, I didnt know that you...were so resourceful, said Xiao Baoshan. He was referring to the head-shavingst night. How did she evene up with such an idea? Ye Xiaoxian could not tell him that she learned it when she watched Journey to The West in the past, could she? I once read a romantic novel and there was a simr situation. It works as a threat without harming others lives. Kill two birds with one stone, said Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan smiled. My wife does learn things fast. I do. If you have any questions in the future, feel free to turn to me! Sure, I will always listen to my wifes knowledgeable words... ... Ye Xiaoxian still felt that it was not good for Xiao Baoshan to continue being exposed to the sun like that. Although it was alright for men to be dark, it was not healthy to be sunburned. It was hot now and Xiao Baoshan sometimes was in the sun topless and his skin would peel. She thought that she must make something like sunscreen for him. As a cook Ye Xiaoxian was good at DIY things and could remember the ingredients for many things by just reading them once. She suddenly remembered that before she became a chef and was still a poor girl, she had made a kind of sunscreen by herself. The ingredients were beeswax, coconut oil, almond, sesame, avocado oil and avocado juice. They did not have avocados here in this era but she could use other ingredients instead. Action speaks louder than word. So she went out to find the ingredients right away. She went to all kinds of pharmacies and grocery stores in town and finally got almost everything she needed. Afterwards she stayed home specially to make her sunscreen. Xiao Baoshan did not have to go to the dock, so he stayed to assist her and watched her grinding power and making the syrup. Due to the hot weather, the tip of her nose was beaded with sweat. Xiao Baoshan wiped away the sweat for her. Every time he did, Ye Xiaoxian said, Thank you, Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan saw her being so attentive and devoted, so he did not disturb her. Actually, he did not need sunscreen or that kind of thing at all, but as Ye Xiaoxian was determined to make it he could only take it with him. When he went out he would remember to apply it. Furthermore, when he looked at Ye Xiaoxian being so busy helping him, he felt that he was being cared for. He was born into a poor family with many siblings and cousins. His elder brother was born sick while he was strong from childhood, so he was not often cared for by others. Instead, he had to help his family with all kinds of work when he was little and was not loved very much. Now Ye Xiaoxian was doing these kinds of things for him and every procedure was very meticulous, so he felt that Ye Xiaoxian wasvishing her care on him. Thinking carefully about it, he and Ye Xiaoxians fondness towards each other was deepening as time went by, while he had not been willing to admit that she was his wife before, which must have meant that others had shown her their disapproval. He made up his mind. I will treat her twice as well in future and will never betray her. ... Ye Xiaoxian did not start talking to Xiao Baoshan when the sunscreen was done and needed to be poured into little bottles. Baoshan, Baozhus life has be easier with the Wong family. Has Ma told you about that? Really? Thinking about his little sister, Xiao Baoshans heart ached for her somewhat. Yes, you know she can do ounting, right? She can also read. The Wongs need an ountant now, so Baozhu was promoted to that position. She was only a handmaid before but now is a concubine. Can we drop in on her? asked Xiao Baoshan. Chapter 146 - What If I Am Pregnant?

Chapter 146: What If I Am Pregnant? Its not the right time yet, said Ye Xiaoxian while pouring the sunscreen into bottles. She was just promoted. If we go to see her now we will appear impatient to curry the Wongs favor. Im afraid in that way well spoil Baozhus chance. Wed better wait for a while.

Ye Xiaoxian also said, I have an idea. Ill go and give Liu Qianqian a bottle of sunscreen tomorrow and ask her to inquire about Baozhu. She will surely manage it. ... The following day in the Liu family. Liu Qianqian opened the bottle and asked Ye Xiaoxian in confusion, Little Ye, why are you giving me sunscreen? Dont you know that Im the kind of ady who doesnt even leave her room? I wont get much sunshine. Even if I go out, Ill be in a pnquin. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. You can use it when in your garden, right? How can a person not sunbathe? Youll be healthier if you get more sunshine. Liu Qianqian then checked out Ye Xiaoxian carefully and found that she was looking very healthy. Little Ye, what have you been eating recently? Why are you looking so vibrant? Am I? asked Ye Xiaoxian. She thought about it and said, Maybe because my staff in the restaurant have grown up. I no longer have to cook all day in the kitchen. When Im free, I just stay at home and make seasonings and spice powders. I dont have to run around or be exposed to oil and grease, so my skins bing healthier. Liu Qianqian carefully looked at Ye Xiaoxian again and shook her head. I dont think so. So, what else? Ye Xiaoxian thought to herself, Do you know me better than I know myself? Liu Qianqian suddenly smiled in a naughty way. Little Ye, you and your husband must have consummated. I heard from my ma that a woman who is loved looks exactly the way you do now, all plumped up. Um...is that so? Liu Qianqian noticed Ye Xiaoxians puzzled expression and then shouted, I knew it! You must have consummated with Xiao Baoshan. Hahaha...because you do not deny it but only wonder whether this was right or wrong, hahaha... You naughty thing! Ye Xiaoxian acted as if she was going to pinch Liu Qianqian. Ahhh, soon youll be a real married woman in future! shouted Liu Qianqian while running. Little Ye is going to have a baby! Ye Xiaoxian heard this and suddenly paused. Have a baby? They did not have any contraception here and she and Xiao Baoshan did it rather passionately. What if she was really pregnant? What would she do then? Little Ye, whats wrong with you? Are you really pregnant? asked Liu Qianqian. No, I still had my period a short while before. However... Ye Xiaoxian suddenly asked worriedly, What if Im really pregnant? Im not prepared. What preparation do you need for this? Liu Qianqian also felt surprised. If youre pregnant, you just deliver the baby. What do you need to prepare? A nanny? Baby clothes? You wont give birth for ten months anyway. Its not like if youre pregnant today that youll give birth tomorrow. Its a long time. You have time to prepare whatever you want. Oh, it was another culture sh. Ye Xiaoxian could not be bothered to exin it. Lets not talk about this. Lets chat about you. Hows it going? Im almost going to have a baby but what about your marriage? Hasnt your pa found a proper suitor for you? Or is it that you think rather lowly of them all and are still infatuated with your cousin-inw? Talking of this, Liu Qianqian fell into silence for a while but before long she became energetic again. Little Ye, your sunscreen wille in handy. Im going out in the afternoon. Where are you going? asked Ye Xiaoxian. Chapter 147 - A Man Is the Best Judge of Other Men

Chapter 147: A Man Is the Best Judge of Other Men Im going on a blind date of course. Little Ye, go with me. My pa asked this man to meet me in a tea house. We can hide somewhere across the way and look at them secretly. What do you think? asked Liu Qianqian.

Well... Ye Xiaoxian thought that Baoshan was still at home. Dont well, well. You cant throw me, your friend, away just because youve got Xiao Baoshan, can you? Ive heard from my ma that youd better restrain yourself from doing it too often. If you do it too much, it will harm both of you. Your body will feel empty. As an old saying goes, a youth does not know how precious his seed is, but as an old man he willment the fading of his manhood. When you go back at noon, have a word with Xiao Baoshan and tell him that youre going to apany me. Or you might as well ask him toe along. A man might be a better judge of another man. Ye Xiaoxians mind became a bit naughty. Especially over the pared to what it used to be remark. She could not help bursting intoughter. Then Ill go back and check with Baoshan to see if hes willing to go. Tell me which tea house it is and Ill wait there for you, otherwise well be too conspicuous if we go together. Liu Qianqian told her the specific location and then Ye Xiaoxian went back to find Xiao Baoshan. ... Xiao Baoshan felt a bit confused. Miss Liu wants me to judge this blind date for her? Yeah, just to observe him from somewhere across from the tea house. Do you want to go? I told her that it depends on you. If you dont mind, well go. If you do mind, we dont have to, but... Ye Xiaoxian told him what Liu Qianqian said word for word. Xiao Baoshan involuntarily found it rather amusing. It makes me sound as if Im a boar. Then lets go or shell treat me as a female pig. After she said this the two of them burst outughing at the same time. ... The teahouse Liu Qianqian had mentioned was not far from where Ye Xiaoxian lived. When it was almost time, Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan began walking over there leisurely. When they arrived at the ce it turned out that Miss Liu was already there. Her maid was waiting downstairs. As soon as she saw Ye Xiaoxian she led her upstairs. Liu Qianqian had reserved a private room on second floor. From the window of the room they had a good view of the teahouse just across the way. Ye Xiaoxian walked in and had a look. She then asked Liu Qianqian, Are you sure that you can see your pa and him from here? They havent arrived yet. I came here early, said Liu Qianqian. But theyre on their way. Liu Qianqian then looked at Xiao Baoshan. When she had sized him up Liu Qianqian said, Ah, Little Ye, thisrge guy of yours looks much darker than before. Not only darker, hes also be even stronger. Hes like a ck ox now. Thats why I made sunscreen for him, said Ye Xiaoxian. Hes already this dark, will the sunscreen work for him? asked Liu Qianqian doubtfully. Ye Xiaoxian could not help but say, Miss Liu, dont tease my husband anymore. Im telling the truth. You feel protective of him, dont you? Liu Qianqian drew near to Ye Xiaoxian and looked at her face. Oh, youre blushing. It seems that you and brother Baoshan are getting along really well recently. Your married life is sweeter than honey. Youll soon be next. When you get married, I guarantee that youll be more lovey-dovey with your husband than us. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. She then put her hand in Xiao Baoshans arm briefly and asked him to sit down. Liu Qianqian still wanted to say something but Ye Xiaoxian stopped her just in time. Well, enough, stop teasing my Baoshan already. Hes shy. Xiao Baoshan was not very talkative, especially with women and, in particr, to the kind of active and straightforward girls like Liu Qianqian. Xiao Baoshan sat down and drank tea while Ye Xiaoxian and Liu Qianqian were resting their heads on the window sill to look outside. Here, theyre here! Liu Qianqian saw her pa first, followed by a young man. Chapter 148 - A Good First Impression

Chapter 148: A Good First Impression Ye Xiaoxian also saw them. The young man was around eighteen or neen years old. He had a tall and slender figure and looked like a rich youth with a nice family background. When the young man saw Lord Liu, he also bowed properly.

Judging from his behavior, he must be a very cultured man. Ye Xiaoxian then said, I think he looks very nice. Its only the first impression which isnt bad but lets observe more. Do you know his name? asked Ye Xiaoxian, His name is Jia Zhenbo, from a major business family. He also has an elder uncle in the provincial city as a, a...anyway he is a small official. Compared with our family were considered to be fairly well-matched. ... Jia Zhenbo hade with his pa. When they arrived on the second floor of the tea house the father and son were sitting on one side and Lord Liu sat on the other. Jia Zhenbo happened to sit right by the window, so Ye Xiaoxian and Liu Qianqian could see him clearly. Most of the time it was the two fathers who were talking while Jia Zhenbo was listening beside them. asionally Lord Liu would ask him some questions and Jia Zhenbo would then answer. Although they could not hear what Jia Zhenbo was saying, Ye Xiaoxian still found that this young man behaved very well as was not pretentious or self-important. He never interrupted anyone else and looked very schrly and refined. She asked Liu Qianqian quietly, What do you think? Liu Qianqian actually quite liked him. She said, Hes good-looking and has a nice bearing. I just dont know if hes a man of integrity, nor do I know how to test him. We can test him soon. How? asked Liu Qianqian curiously. Now its time for my Baoshan to take action. Liu Qianqian still felt confused, wondering if Xiao Baoshan could also test whether a person has integrity or not. Do you have a sliver coin? Ye Xiaoxian asked Liu Qianqian. What for? Hurry up and give it to me. Youll know soon! said Ye Xiaoxian in a mysterious tone. Liu Qianqian could only fish out a silver coin and said, Well, do whatever you want. Ye Xiaoxian gave the silver coin to Xiao Baoshan and whispered something at his ear. Xiao Baoshan understood and then gently flipped his finger, and then the silver coin actuallynded stably beside Jia Zhenbo. Ye Xiaoxian knew Xiao Baoshans skills well. He knew the lightness kung fu and that he was able slip into Fang Shandings roomte at night, so he surely could manage such a small trick. However, it shocked Liu Qianqian. Amazing! Baoshan, your skill is... She had not finished talking when Ye Xiaoxian dragged her down. Hide! Jia Zhenbo, who was across the street from them, suddenly found a silver coin by the window. He felt very confused, so he looked around and wanted to find out who had dropped the silver. He first asked Lord Liu and his father but neither of them imed it to be theirs. Jia Zhenbo then looked downstairs. Could it be that someone downstairs had flipped it up? But there was no one behaving in such a way downstairs and nobody was looking for any silver. The teahouse across the road? No way. There was a street in between and nobody could throw a silver that far. Jia Zhenbo then put the silver back where he found it, thinking that if someone came to look for it, he would return it to them. When they saw Jia Zhenbos behavior clearly, Ye Xiaoxian then whispered to Liu Qianqian, It seems he did not keep the silver for himself. That shows that he is an honest man. Liu Qianqian, however, said in aplicated tone, My silver has gone just like that. Ye Xiaoxianforted her. You can observe a mans character by spending just a silver coin. Its worth it. Lord Liu and Jia Zhenbo talked for around an hour. They must have thought that was enough, so the two parties bid goodbye to each other. Before leaving, Lord Liu looked at the silver coin by the window and said, Has no onee to im this silver coin? If so, Zhenbo, why dont you take it. Chapter 149 - Shall We Continue To Test Him?

Chapter 149: Shall We Continue To Test Him? Jia Zhenbo was not willing to take the coin. He was a young person and young people always have a kind of pride. He then tried to refuse. Uncle, maybe its better for you to take it.

Lord Liu did not need to be asked a second time. He took it right away and put it in his pocket. Ye Xiaoxian saw this and panted withughter. Hahaha, that is...so...Qianqian, your silver is back with your own family. Hahaha... Liu Qianqian shouted, Ah, how embarrassing! Ye Xiaoxian then asked her, Do you want to continue to test him? Do I need to spend more money? asked Liu Qianqian. Although she was from a rich family, rich people were particrly tight with money. Liu Qianqian did not want to spend a copper coin on something unnecessary. Ye Xiaoxian said, This time we dont need that much. Just 200 copper coins. Liu Qianqian then fished out 200 coins for Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian took the money and went around to look for a helping hand. She suddenly spotted the waiter in the teahouse, so she said, Waiter,e here for a moment. The waiter came and asked Ye Xiaoxian what he could do for her. Ye Xiaoxian passed one hundred coins to the waiter and gave him some detailed instructions. She then said, Hurry up. It must be done quickly. When you bring it off, theres another one hundred coins for you! The waiter did not dare to dy and ran downstairs immediately. ... Jia Zhenbo and the two fathers also happened to being downstairs. When they got downstairs Mr. Jia and his son bid goodbye to Lord Liu again. They chatted in courtesy to one another for a while and then moved off in opposite directions. Mr. Jia and his son were walking towards the west and, after they had taken a few steps, the waiter appeared as if he was in a hurry. When he passed Jia Zhenbo he bumped right into him. The waiter was still holding a basin of dirty water. After knocking into Jia Zhenbo, half of the dirty water sshed on him Jia Zhenbo was hurt and smelled bad from the dirty water. His father could not stand it and started scolding the waiter. The waiter kept asking for their mercy saying that he was in a hurry and if he waste he would be punished. He also said that he wouldpensate Jia Zhenbo for his clothes and would pay him twenty coins. Jia Zhenbos pa was still scolding him. Did you saypensate? His clothes are worth at least a hundred coins. What do we need twenty coins for? However, Jia Zhenbo stopped his pa and said, Pa, its alright. Zhenbo, look at you. In order toe to meet Lord Liu you have had this outfit made specially and now it is dirty. I dont know if it can be cleaned when we get back. Jia Zhenbo said, Of course it can be cleaned. Pa, you dont have to be so annoyed. Dont get annoyed over others carelessness or itll do harm to your health. Then he said to the waiter, You may pay me the twenty coins aspensation. The waiter fished out the twenty coins and gave them to Jia Zhenbo. After that, the father and son left while the waiter went back to the teahouse. Ye Xiaoxian gave the waiter the other hundred coins and said to Liu Qianqian, I think this Jia Zhenbo is alright. First of all, he was sympathetic towards the ordinary working-ss people. He didnt deliberately make things difficult for them, neither was he being condescending. Secondly, he received the twenty coins from the waiter which shows that he is quite sensible. By no means would he suffer that kind of a loss. He epted the money which is also a reminder to the waiter that he should be responsible for his behavior, so that the waiter would remember not to do things so boldly next time. Liu Qianqian felt rather pleased in her heart. At this instant she felt a bit shy. Little Ye, you mean that its okay to marry Jia Zhenbo? Of course. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Just wait to be his bride. Chapter 150 - Meeting Baozhu

Chapter 150: Meeting Baozhu Liu Qianqians face turned a bit pink.

Ye Xiaoxian saw this so she teased her. Ah, your face is pink. Qianqian, when you get married you must restrain yourself from doing it too much. Dont be excessively affectionate. How does that old saying go? What are those precious things a youth does not know? Liu Qianqian posed as if she was going to hit Ye Xiaoxian, while Ye Xiaoxian tried to dodge her. The two girls were teasing and fighting each other for fun in the teahouse. Xiao Baoshan looked at them quietly from across the room. As long as Ye Xiaoxian was happy, he felt happy. When they left the teahouse, Ye Xiaoxian asked Liu Qianqian to do her a favor. She wanted Liu Qianqian to go and inquire about Xiao Baozhu and check if she was leading a good life or not with the Wongs. Liu Qianqian nodded and said that she would go and inquire about it right away. When she got the information she would go back to inform Ye Xiaoxian. Liu Qianqian was so excited that she needed to find something to shift her attention. Liu Qianqian and Schr Wong were rtives so it was normal for her to pay a visit to his family asionally. It was just that Liu Qianqian was a girl, so when she went to Schr Wongs home, she must greet Lord Wong and Mrs. Wong first. After some small talk she was then allowed to go and see Schr Wong. When she arrived at the courtyard where Schr Wong lived she had go to see Schr Wong and Qin Qingqing together first. Schr Wong and Qin Qingqing were extremely affectionate as usual, and their life together was truly sweeter than honey. Even though Qin Qingqing was present, the couple were eyeing each other up. When they talked they held hands under the table, which made Liu Qianqian feel quite nauseous. This was the very reason that Liu Qianqian had not wished to concern herself about Xiao Baozhu much before. Schr Wong treated Qin Qingqing very well and if she just came to him and said, You should look after Baozhu a bit, then, as a result, not only would Schr Wong not want to talk with her anymore but Qin Qingqing would also hate her very much. She would end up being hated by everyone. Cousin Qingqing, you two are such a sweet couple, said Liu Qianqian in admiration. Qin Qingqing felt a bit shy. Your cousin is taking good care of me. Qingqing, Ive got a bottle of sunscreen here for you. If you go out in future, you can apply some to protect you from getting sunburned. Liu Qianqian smiled. But you must use it up within a year, otherwise it will have no effect. Thank you, Qianqian, said Qin Qingqing with appreciation. She noticed that there was another bottle in Liu Qianqians breast pocket. She then asked her, Qianqian, do you also use it yourself? Indeed I do. My bottle is back at home, Liu Qianqian said on purpose. She had also deliberately shown this bottle of sunscreen to Qin Qingqing so that Qin Qingqing would start the conversation. Oh? So who is this bottle for? asked Qin Qingqing confused. You mean this bottle? My friend asked me to take it to Xiao Baozhu. By the way, can I see Xiao Baozhu? Shes my friends sister and I was asked to drop in on her. Although Liu Qianqian did not go out a lot, she had been hanging around in the upper-ss circles in town and developed a worldly-wise manner while dealing with people. She could not directly say that she wanted to see Xiao Baozhu or it would upset Qin Qingqing who may think that Liu Qianqin was here to deliberately embarrass her. Liu Qianqin could only find another excuse to see Xiao Baozhu. If Qin Qingqing was not loved by Schr Wong, she would have hated Liu Qianqian already. However, she was spoiled by her husband so she still did not give much consideration to Xiao Baozhu. She even found Xiao Baozhu to be very miserable and sometimes asked Schr Wong to go and meet Xiao Baozhu, but Schr Wong simply did not like her. Therefore, Qin Qingqing was not rmed by Liu Qianqians request. She simply said, Shes living in a separate wing off the main house. Do you want to go there yourself or shall I ask someone to bring her over? Ask someone to bring her over then. Liu Qianqian thought that maybe Qin Qingqing said this on purpose in order to see how close she and Xiao Baozhu were. Chapter 151 - Bad News Chapter 151: Bad News When Xiao Baozhu came over, Schr Wong went to leave. He did not wish to be in the same room as Xiao Baozhu at all. It was Xiao Baozhu who was to me for plotting against him before. He was a man who felt that the whole world was beautiful but Xiao Baozhu made him feel dirty. He hated being scammed. Seeing Schr Wong leaving, Qin Qingqing also went back to her room while her maid, Cui, was standing there watching. Xiao Baozhu knew that Schr Wong despised her but as she was used to it so she did not look particrly disappointed. She only felt surprised to see that Liu Qianqian hade to visit her. Liu Qianqian passed the bottle of sunscreen to her saying that Ye Xiaoxian gave it to her. She then asked Xiao Baozhu, How have you been doing recently? Pretty good, said Xiao Baozhu. Judging from her appearance, Xiao Baozhu had be much more refined. She also had essories on her head and silver bracelet on her wrist which suggested that she was treated as a concubine. It was just that Liu Qianqian felt that Xiao Baozhu was not what she used to be. The previous Xiao Baozhu was very timid. She used to be very shy andcking in confidence in what she did. She liked to stay quietly in corners and others would not really notice her. However, the current Xiao Baozhu was different. Her gaze was firm and her behavior was cool. Even if she did not speak, one could feel her presence sitting beside her. Life truly could toughen a person up. Do you still read romantic stories as before? asked Liu Qianqian. Xiao Baozhu smiled bitterly. No, I dont. Romantic stories are not realistic. Now Im reading Records of the Three Kingdoms. Liu Qianqian drew a deep breath and continued to ask, Is it interesting? Its pretty nice. I can learn a lot of realistic and meaningful things. Liu Qianqian smiled. Thats right. Those romantic novels are just used to kill time. Ive told you before that those stories are not realistic at all and only na?ve girls will believe them. She was so right. Just look how Xiao Baozhu ended up by believing such stories. After they chatted for a while Liu Qianqian felt that it was about time for her to leave when Xiao Baozhu suddenly said, Miss Qianqian, please say thank you to my sister-inw for me. Ill go back to see her soon. Liu Qianqian went to find Ye Xiaoxian again the following day. This time she went to Ye Xiaoxians house. Xiao Baoshan had not gone to the dock yet. Seeing that Liu Qianqian hade to visit he knew that the women would have a lot to chat about, so he volunteered to grind the seasonings for Ye Xiaoxian so that she and Liu Qianqian could hang out freely. Liu Qianqian saw this and suddenly became a bit jealous. Little Ye, your Baoshan is such a good man! Your Jia Zhenbo is also very good. Liu Qianqian immediately blushed. This is too far-fetched. It is going to happen then? When you went back home yesterday, did your pa say anything? My pa said that if everything goes smoothly then the Jia Family woulde to deliver their betrothal presents in the next couple of days. Congrattions, someone finally will marry you. You make it sound like Im not popr at all. Then why didnt you get married sooner? ... The two of them teased each other a bit and then Liu Qianqian volunteered to talk about Baozhu. I saw Baozhu yesterday. I feel that shes leading a pretty nice life. Its just... Just what? asked Ye Xiaoxian hurriedly. Xiao Baoshan also stopped working. Liu Qianqian said, I cant put my finger on whats wrong. My cousin still ignores her but Baozhu doesnt mind. Dont worry, you two, her life is fine. Now shes reading and calcting all the ounting books in the family and I believe that before long shell have worked through all the ounts of the Wong family. Also, she doesnt read romantic novels anymore but instead is reading Records of the Three Kingdoms, so I feel that she has her own n and is no longer the little girl she used to be. Thats fine as long as she can take care of herself, said Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan continued grinding the seasonings. The two of them chatted for a little while longer and Liu Qianqians maid suddenly ran over in a hurry, panting, Mdy, bad news, bad news! Chapter 152 - The Jia Family Turn Down The Marriage

Chapter 152: The Jia Family Turn Down The Marriage What happened? Whats all this fuss? asked Liu Qianqian.

Miss, your marriage is...Im afraid its over. Just now the Jia Family sent someone to deliver a message saying, saying...that they dont want to tie the knot with our family. In the yard, Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baoshan and Liu Qianqian were all quite taken aback. It had been going so smoothly. Why had they suddenly turned the marriage down? Ye Xiaoxian asked the maid, Have the Jia Family given any reason? They said that, that...miss has tried to kill herself before and starved almost to death. They are worried that you may have some sort of health problem. They are also concerned that you may have a recurrence of an old illness and try to kill yourself again. How could this happen! Liu Qianqian said furiously. Im looking good right now, arent I? I can eat two liang (a unit of weight in ancient China, around 200 grams) of rice per meal. My appetite is more than good. The Jia Family has actually inquired about what happened to me. If my past concerns them so badly, Id rather end this marriage. I dont care! However, Ye Xiaoxian sensed something strange here. Have they heard something from others? Maybe some people dont want your families to tie the knot and sow discord. Liu Qianqian had suffered from anorexia before which was known by many in town. The Jia Family was seeking to tie the knot with the Liu Family, so they must have known this before the blind date. They must have asked and figured it out. Besides, matchmakers now were such smooth talkers and must be capable of making what happened to Liu Qianqian sound usible. Liu Qianqian was not in a good mood now as she was thought so poorly of by others, so she felt so disgraced. She simply said, Anyway, the Jia Family is not sincere at all. They can go back on their word when a deal has already been made. Ye Xiaoxian knew that Liu Qianqian was at the peak of her fury, so it was useless to try and persuade her to be calm, so she tried to excite Liu Qianqian. Qianqian, whether the Jias are sincere or not is not important. However, if there really is someone who has spoiled your marriage deliberately, can we just let them off? Dont you want to know whos behind this? If this person has said something bad about you this time wouldnt he do so again? We cant let someone spoil everything for you all the time, can we? Liu Qianqian thought about it and felt that Ye Xiaoxian had a point. But I dont know who is gossiping about me behind my back. Then lets check on it with the matchmaker. The matchmaker is so articte that she surely can manage to inquire into it. ... In the afternoon, Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan had an afternoon nap. Just as they had woken up and were about to snuggle together, Liu Qianqian came again. When Liu Qianqian arrived she shouted, Little Ye, are you home? Quickly,e out. I have something to tell you! Ye Xiaoxian sighed helplessly, reluctantly got dressed and went out to see Liu Qianqian. Liu Qianqian did not care whether Ye Xiaoxian had just woken up or not. Sheined, Im so angry. Its killing me. Little Ye, youre absolutely right. The matchmaker told me today. Do you know who is gossiping about me behind my back? It turns out to be Bai Qi and my cousin! Ye Xiaoxian was also shocked. Bai Qi? Isnt he your cousin-inw? Why should he do such a thing? Is it that he spends so much time sitting around idling that his balls... She meant to say, ...that his balls hurt. Liu Qianqian sat down furiously and then said to Ye Xiaoxian, Get a cup of water for me. Ye Xiaoxian quickly went to pour a cup of tea for her. Liu Qianqian gulped the tea down like it was tap water. After she finished, she smashed the cup on the floor and the cupy there in pieces. Ye Xiaoxian said nothing. Luckily the tea cup was not expensive, so it was okay. This is so damn strange. Weirder than seeing a ghost during the day. In broad daylight Bai Qi has actually smeared my reputation like this. I even used to miss him so much that I didnt even care about eating. Every single feeling I had for him was in vain, along with all my suffering and pain. I almost died for him. It was just yesterday. I dont know where he heard about my pa meeting the Jias and wanting to tie the knot with their family. Then that nasty man actually treated Jia Zhenbo to a meal and carelessly mentioned me. He then started to gossip about me and exposed all the scandals from all seventeen years of my life. Damn, now he has talked about me like that who will dare to marry me? Chapter 153 - Being A Heavenly Matchmaker

Chapter 153: Being A Heavenly Matchmaker After Ye Xiaoxian listened to it, she also felt that Bai Qi was a nasty man. Such men particrly liked tricking little girls into liking them in order to show off their charisma. When they actually got the girls, they would ditch them at anytime. After doing this, they would still hope that the girls would remember them for a lifetime.

What a scum he is! I cant just get over this humiliation. This goddamned Bai Qi. Im going to argue with him now and beat him up. I cant let off steam unless I break one of his legs. Liu Qianqian then went to leave. Ye Xiaoxian stopped her right away. Qianqian, dont act impulsively. Tell me now, do you like Jia Zhenbo at all? Whether I like him or not isnt important now, is it? Things have already turned out like this. Am I going to force him to marry me? Ye Xiaoxian continued to stop her. Qianqian, listen to me. Its useless to break Bai Qis leg. With someone like him, if you go to find him he will think that you still care about him. Maybe he would even be happy being beaten up by you, and then would spread even worse gossip about you to prevent you from being able to marry for the rest of your life. The strongest counterattack now is to marry Jia Zhenbo, showing him that it is useless to incite others against you and that you dont care about him at all. Liu Qianqian looked at Ye Xiaoxian. But Jia Zhenbo wont marry me now. How exactly can I marry him? Why dont you go back and let me think about it carefully. Something wille up. Liu Qianqian looked at Ye Xiaoxian still with a doubtful look. Ye Xiaoxian wille up with a solution? You must trust me. I guarantee you that youll marry Jia Zhenbo! ... After Liu Qianqian left, Ye Xiaoxian went to tidy up the broken pieces of cup on the floor. By this time Xiao Baoshan had walked out and started teasing Ye Xiaoxian. I didnt know that my wife has Yuos skill (Yuo: A Chinese counterpart of Cupid in Chinese folklore who ties couples together with a red string) and can tie couples together with red string. Little Ye, how are you going to tie this particr red string? Ye Xiaoxian did not know what to do. I still need to think about it. Baoshan, dont sit around. Hurry up and think of something for me. Little Ye, your husband is just a coarse man. Its practical for you to ask me to jump over a wall and shave peoples heads but Im not able to be Yuo. Talking about jumping over a wall, Ye Xiaoxian was again suddenly enlightened. Baoshan, Ive figured out how to help Liu Qianqian. As were going to do something Yuo would do, we might as well pretend to be him. Whats the n? asked Xiao Baoshan. Just listen to me. Ye Xiaoxian smiled yfully and then fetched a pen and some paper from their room. Ye Xiaoxian still could not write the traditional characters very well but Baoshan could recognize most of them. She worked out her scheme carefully, including each step for what they were going to do and say. She wrote down all the details on the paper. ... Late that night at the Jia Family. In the town, the styles of the rich families houses were quite simr. There was an entrance yard attached to the gate and then a front hall. Beyond those were another front yard and a back yard. Then, ording to the statuses of the family members, they would live in separate rooms. For example, the elders lived in the north quarters and the elder son lived in the east quarters. Now there were two shadows sneaking onto the roof of the east quarter. Ye Xiaoxian felt that what they were going to do that night was so exciting. Xiao Baoshan held her to go to the rooftop, so she wanted to copy what she had watched from TV. She then lifted up a tile and tried to see what the person in the room was doing, but Xiao Baoshan stopped her. Little Ye, why are you lifting the tile? whispered Xiao Baoshan. I want to check if Jia Zhenbo has already gone to bed and what he is doing. Xiao Baoshan then reminded her, The candle in his room has already been extinguished, so he must have gone to bed! ... Ye Xiaoxian felt herself very stupid. Chapter 154 - Avalokite?vara

Chapter 154: Avalokite?vara Xiao Baoshan said, Wait a second. Ill just go down to arrange something.

ording to Ye Xiaoxians script, she was to act as the Avalokite?vara (a bodhisattva who embodies thepassion of all Buddhas), so she had covered herself entirely in white clothes, dressed up just like the bodhisattva in those portraits. As for Xiao Baoshan, he was responsible for being a lookout and covering her. After a short while, Xiao Baoshan got up again. He told Ye Xiaoxian, Everythings in order. You can get down now. Xiao Baoshan then held Ye Xiaoxians waist and flew down to the yard. A household like that of Jia Zhenbos family did not have many guards. They had at most one or two night-watch servants who would merely look around by the gate rather than go patrolling throughout the property. Therefore, it would be easy to slip into Jia Zhenbos room. ... Jia Zhenbo had been sleeping soundly but something suddenly struck him and he woke up. He felt a gust of blowing on his face and then heard a womans voice. Jia Zhenbo, Jia Zhenbo. Her voice was gentle and also very benevolent. Jia Zhenbo turned over and saw Avalokite?vara sitting about one meter away in front of his bed. Despite the silk crepe bed curtain between them meaning that he could not see her face clearly, still, she must be Avalokite?vara herself judging from her appearance. She was in the same kind of white dress with the same kind of head essories. She also had a vase in her hands and was perched on the lotus seat. He was so taken aback that he was going to get out from behind the bed curtain and worship Avalokite?vara. Ye Xiaoxian quickly said, You do not have toe out or pay your respects to me. I shall leave after giving you my instructions. What, what is it? asked Jia Zhenbo. People in this era revered gods and spirits a great deal. Not only in this era but even in modern times, Ye Xiaoxian could manage to fool others by dressing in such a way. Ye Xiaoxian said in a gentle voice, I am here to inform you that the girl from the Liu Family who you had a blind date with days ago is the person you are destined to be with. If you marry each other, it will be a heavenly match. If you have a son in the future, he will be the incarnation of the Megrez star (believed to be in charge of wisdom in Chinese folklore). The incarnation of Megrez? You mean he wille first in the highest imperial examination? asked Jia Zhenbo. It depends on how you raise him. Fine, I have finished giving my instructions and you must obey me. Never disobey your destiny or listen to other petty mens nderous talk. Tomorrow afternoon you will go to the lotus pond outside of the town where you will meet the person of your destiny. After Ye Xiaoxian finished, Jia Zhenbo was again struck by something and then fell asleep immediately. Ye Xiaoxian saw this and asked Xiao Baoshan, hidden in the darkness, Baoshan, did I do well? Did I look like the real Avalokite?vara? Xiao Baoshan walked out. He packed things up for Ye Xiaoxian while saying, You were so urate. I wonder if you were happy putting on the show? Im so happy. Im so happy and excited! Im also very satisfied and entertained! Ye Xiaoxian said proudly. Im d youre happy! Xiao Baoshan did not mind tidying things up for Ye Xiaoxian at all. Ye Xiaoxians lotus seat was also made by him. He had decorated it with many lotus flowers picked at theke. When they tidied things up, it seemed that Ye Xiaoxian did not notice that a petal fell onto the floor and was left in Jia Zhenbos room. ... When Jia Zhenbo woke up, he at once felt that he had headache. It seemed like he had been hit by something between his eyebrows. When he touched there, it was a bit swollen. He then remembered Avalokite?vara. Had Avalokite?vara really visited? No way! Was it a dream? Thinking about it, what had the bodhisattva said to him again? Chapter 155 - Meeting At The Lake

Chapter 155: Meeting At The Lake He seemed to recall something. The bodhisattva seemed to have asked him to marry Miss Liu. However, the girl of the Liu Family...was said to have mental problems. She had tried tomit suicide without rhyme or reason. She also mistreated her servants by either hitting them or scolding them. Her temper was worse and she did not know how to respect her elders.

They were all told this by Bai Qi. When Bai Qi had heard that he was going to marry Miss Liu, he tried very hard to persuade him to drop the idea. Was Avalokite?vara telling the truth? Was the dream true? Jia Zhenbo lifted himself out of bed and suddenly spotted something. A petal under his bed? Was this...a lotus petal? Was this left by Avalokite?vara? It certainly is! It turned out that Avalokite?varas lotus seat was made with fresh flowers. He found that he had been so ill-informed before. Jia Zhenbo remembered the bodhisattvas instruction. She had asked him to go to the lotus pond outside of the town where he would meet the girl of his destiny. Will Liu Qianqian be there? ... Jia Zhenbo did not mention his dream to a soul. After getting up, he just freshened up peacefully as usual and went out after lunch. Meanwhile, Ye Xiaoxian and Liu Qianqian were appreciating the flowers at the lotus pond. Despite the hot weather, the lotus flowers were blooming beautifully here outside of the town, which had attracted many schrs and young girls. Some could paint, so they came here to sketch among natures surroundings. Liu Qianqian asked Ye Xiaoxian, Will Jia Zhenbo surely make it today? Of course he will. Why should I lie to you? Its so hot today. Do you think I want to be outside? Im doing this all for your benefit, arent I? Liu Qianqian was rather touched. Youre the best. By the way, how did you get him toe? Ye Xiaoxian then told Liu Qianqian every single detail from the night before. Hearing what Ye Xiaoxian said, Liu Qianqian was stunned. What if I wont have a son but only daughters? Then the Megrez star wonte. What if I will have a son but hes unable toe first in the exam? Ive told him that it will depend on how you bring him up. If he fails then you, the parents, are to me for not teaching him properly. Liu Qianqians eyes were still wide. Seriously? Why not? Our purpose now is to trick him to marry you. As for what will happen in future, wed better talk about thatter! But even if hees, how can he recognize me? asked Liu Qianqian again. He never saw me before. If I go over to ask him, it will look too contrived, wont it? This is a real problem. I didnt consider this yesterday. Let me have a think. Liu Qianqian was speechless. They had just done talking when Ye Xiaoxian saw Jia Zhenbo walking towards them. He walked while observing the people around theke. Perhaps he was trying to figure out which one was Liu Qianqian. Liu Qianqian thought that they must not force it to happen. How about tripping over in front of him? Or dropping something in front of him. Nothing seemed appropriate to do. If she fell over too hard, it would ruin his first impression of her. If she just slightly fell over, it would look too fake. It was not ideal to drop something in front of him. What if he did not see it? Besides, whatever way they coulde up with for tricking him would surely also ur to others as some scheme. Jia Zhenbo was not only good-looking and of a fine demeanor, but he hade to the pond alone. Just as he arrived, a girl took off her earring and tossed it in front of him, saying coyly, Oh, my earring fell off. Jia Zhenbo picked up the earring and returned it to thedy. Thedy was so touched. Thank you, sir. May I know your name? Liu Qianqian was rather anxious. Little Ye, think of something quickly. Otherwise others will flirt and hook up with him. Ye Xiaoxian was of course thinking very hard as she was also quite anxious. Chapter 156 - You Are Fine

Chapter 156: You Are Fine

Ye Xiaoxian was so anxious that suddenly an idea sparked and she suddenly pushed Liu Qianqian into the lotus pond then shouted to Jia Zhenbo, Help! Someone fell into the pond! Help! She then rushed over to Jia Zhenbo, dragged him and ran. Jia Zhenbo heard that someone had fallen into the water and also felt very tense, so he ran with Ye Xiaoxian. When they got to where Liu Qianqian had fallen in, Ye Xiaoxian also pushed Jia Zhenbo hard into the pond. It turned out that neither Liu Qianqian nor Jia Zhenbo could swim. Fortunately the pond was not deep. When they fell in the water, all they needed to do was stand up and the water reached only up to their chests. Being in the water, Liu Qianqian tightly held onto Jia Zhenbos hand out of fear. Sir, Im so scared. Miss, dont worry. Im here to help you to get out. Sir, the mud is so deep that I cant move my feet. Well... Liu Qianqian looked at him in an endearing way. Hold my hand. Just follow my steps, said Jia Zhenbo again. Mhmm. When they reached the edge of the pond, Jia Zhenbo first lifted Liu Qianqian up and then climbed out himself. Ye Xiaoxian hurriedly came over to help Liu Qianqian and deliberately said her name aloud. Liu Qianqian, are you okay? Liu Qianqian sneezed and rolled her eyes at Ye Xiaoxian. You dare to push me in the water. Ill deal with you about thister! Jia Zhenbo heard the name Liu Qianqian and felt a bit surprised so quickly asking, Miss, are you Miss Liu Qianqian? Yes, thank you for saving me, sir. May I know your name? I...my name is Jia Zhenbo. Nice to meet you, Mr. Jia! Liu Qianqian pretended that she did not know him. She was now soaked through. Her hair was also wet which made her look very endearing and gave her more feminine charm. She looked very lovable. What was more, Liu Qianqian was good-looking herself. When she was soaked, one could tell that she had a fine figure. Recently she had been eating and sleeping well, so she was a bit plump which also suited ancient peoples taste. Miss Qianqian, I, I met your father some days ago and you and I are meant to tie the knot. Jia Zhenbo was a bit shy. Ah, so its you? Liu Qianqian kept acting. But, I heard that you refused to marry me yesterday. I dont know what is wrong with me. No, I didnt mean that. You are...fine. Jia Zhenbo looked at Liu Qianqian and was suddenly charmed by her. Really? But my pa... Your father must have misunderstood something. Why dont you wait at home for my response? I probably...I mean my pa probably will go to your house to discuss the proposal soon. Ye Xiaoxian secretly chuckled and then said, I dont think you should continue talking like this. Mr. Jia, as you are going to bring up the proposal and Qianqian is soaked wet, Im worried that shell catch a cold. May I trouble you to take her home? Jia Zhenbo said quickly, I should, I should. Did Miss Qianqiane here by horse-drawn carriage? Would you mind going home in my carriage? I dont mind my carriage getting wet at all. Liu Qianqian sneezed again and then said timidly, That sounds nice. I...Ill do as you say, Mr. Jia. Jia Zhenbo then looked at Ye Xiaoxian. Is thisdy your friend, Miss Qianqian? Do you need me to arrange someone to take you home? Dont mind me, Ye Xiaoxian said quickly. My husband wille to pick me upter. Hurry up and go, or Qianqian will catch a cold. Jia Zhenbo did not dare to dy any longer and escorted Liu Qianqian to his carriage. Chapter 157 - Hiding Deep Among the Lotus Flowers

Chapter 157: Hiding Deep Among the Lotus Flowers Near the lotus pond was Lunar Heart Lake whose vast surface was half-covered by lotus flowers over the clear water. Some boatmen nearby were clever enough to develop thekes tourism, renting out boats to visitors or rowing boats to show them around.

After Qianqian had left, Ye Xiaoxian went to find Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan was waiting for her in a shady spot by thekeside. He had rented a boat, waiting to tour theke with her. Everythings done? he asked with a smile when she came up to him. Yes! They will make a sweet couple! Ye Xiaoxian announced the good news in excitement. Then, she told him everything that happened from beginning to end. Her vivid narration amused him. Youre so capable and admirable! I couldnt have done it without your help. It was you who came up with the idea. Well, this is one of my rare merits, she said as she noticed the boat behind him. It was neither too big nor too small, just the same as the one in The Legend of White Snake, a romantic TV y. A canopy arched over the boat, providing shelter from rain or sunlight. Baoshan, are you nning to row the boat? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Xiao Baoshan stretched out a hand and said, Come with me. It will be an impressive day. Ye Xiaoxian had a slightly dirty mind as she mistook impressive as caressive. She considered that she had be so weary from helping Liu Qianqian thesest few days, so it was reasonable for her to have auditory hallucinations. Xiao Baoshan helped her aboard and followed behind. To her surprise, he was such a skilled rower that it took him only a short while to reach the middle of theke. Just then, Ye Xiaoxian faced a dilemma over whether to enjoy the scenery fully or to avoid sunburn under the canopy. Although she had applied some of the sun cream that she had made to her skin, she would still get burned if exposed to intense sunlight. After a mental struggle she finally said, s, I love my skin better. I think I should stay under the canopy. Seeing her slightly frowning face, Xiao Baoshan felt that she was more adorable than ever before. Since they had got on the boat, Xiao Baoshan had been rowing hard away from the shore. Several boats had been with them on theke at the beginning, but theke was so expansive that they couldnt see any of them after turning a corner. A few momentster, Ye Xiaoxian heard something rustling against the wooden hull. The boat was brushing past the lotus leaves. Immediately, the light faded as she found herself surrounded by lotus flowers and leaves. Xiao Baoshan had steered the boat deep among the lotus flowers. Baoshan, why are you taking the boat in here? We may get lost! Ye Xiaoxiao got a bit nervous. Xiao Baoshan put down the paddles and squatted down to pick several seed pods. Then, he moved under the canopy and handed the seed pods to Ye Xiaoxian. These are edible. Ye Xiaoxians eyes suddenly lit up. Lotus seeds! Lotus seeds were thought to have medicinal use in relieving the umtion of excess yang energy. They could be used to simmer the soup or be eaten raw. When she was about to peel the lotus seeds, she found that Xiao Baoshan didnt go out to row the boat. Curiously she asked, Why are you still here? I want to stay with you for a while, he said. Little Ye, I feel sofortable here. Its just like were hiding in a haven of peace. Dont you think so? Hearing that, Ye Xiaoxian also looked around. The lotus flowers and leaves surrounding the boat isted them from the outside world. The secluded space was indeed a peaceful haven and it was so quiet that she could only hear the melodious gurgle of the water and the tender wind. Chapter 158 - What do you want me to do?

Chapter 158: What do you want me to do? Ye Xiaoxian peeled several lotus seeds and handed one to Xiao Baoshan. Rather than stretching out his hand, Xiao Baoshan opened his mouth to catch the lotus seed. But just then, he stuck out his tongue to lick her fingertip, tickling her from her skin to her heart.

One more, he said. Ye Xiaoxian picked up another one. This time, he held her slender fingers between his warm lips directly. She was somewhat stunned. Their eyes were locked on one another, full of tenderness and love. Xiao Baoshan then threw his arms around her neck and kissed her gently. Baoshan, we...someone may see us. They wont. My love, trust me! If a man had his passions aroused, he would usually forget how to control himself. Then, the boat shook affectionately in this captivating lotus world. ... Ye Xiaoxian believed that these past two days had been the happiest time in her two lives, enjoying full intimacy with Xiao Baoshan. In herst life, Ye Xiaoxian had been busy earning a living. In this life, the initial owner of her body was so poor, but she gradually shook off poverty by running the restaurant. Besides, Xiao Baoshan had been always with her,ughing with her, doing all kinds of crazy things with her. Suddenly, Ye Xiaoxian thought that she wouldnt regret it even if she had to end her life at this moment. ... The Xiaos Cuisine. That day, Sister Xiang walked past the restaurant again. She was more than furious seeing the ce packed with ever-increasing numbers of customers. She had been busy developing new recipes for many days. Since Ye Xiaoxians dishes were rtively heavier, she prepared to cook something lighter such as congee and steamed fish. However, no matter how hard she tried, her inn could not cause such a stir as Ye Xiaoxians. Her customers decreased day by day. If her main business hadnt been amodation, she might have run the inn at a loss. Besides, she had to pay higher taxes since Fang Shanding was driven out of office. The new tax official didnt dare reduce her taxes out of fear that it would be discovered by his superiors. After everything had been taken into ount, her ie had shrunk by half. In contrast, Ye Xiaoxian derived gain from misfortune and her business was booming. How could Sister Xiang stomach an insult like that? Sister Xiang went back to her own inn in a sulk and gulped several cups of cool water at once. She then left the inn again. She walked down two alleys and finally stopped at the end of ane. In front of her was a shabby, lifeless house whose door was wide open. Perhaps there would be some decent furniture for thieves to steal. In the yard were some worn-out furnishings and several empty wine jugs littering the corner. Two hourster, a man staggered into the yard. He was exuding a mixed odor of liquor and, in particr, blood. Seeing Sister Xiang, the man opened his bloodshot eyes widely and asked, Arent you the keeper of Xiang Lin Inn? Well, seeing how you already know me, I think I can skip the introduction part. The man smirked. You want to recover your money? As you can see, I am penniless now. I cant pay off my debts even if you kill me. Just beat me. Have those guys from the winery beat me up. Sister Xiang sneered. Do you want to write off all our old scores? What do you want me to do? The man was not stupid. He knew that there wouldnt be any pennies from heaven. Chapter 159 - Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

Chapter 159: Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder Lai Er, I can write off your debts if you help me settle this matter. I can also give you a jar of wine, which is enough for you to take a bath for two days.

After a pause, the man called Lai Er asked, What do you need? Sister Xiang walked up to him, sneered, and briefed him on her n. ... After many sweet days with Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baoshan had to go back to the dock. Holding her gently in his arms, he said reluctantly, My love, I have to go back to work again. How long for this time? she asked. She was also sad about his departure. During these days they had spent together, she had found countless good qualities in him. He was knowledgeable, polite, kind and sympathetic. He even excelled in martial arts but never bullied the weak. He was friendly to everyone around him and he kept his thoughts to himself but never harbored any wicked ideas. Everything verified the saying that beauty was in the eye of the beholder. His dark skin, in her eyes, only enhanced his dashing looks. ... Lai Er was slightly more capable than he appeared to be. He had a rtive who happened to be a fire tender in Ye Xiaoxians restaurant. Therefore, he pretended to visit his rtive and was allowed into the kitchen. When his rtive was not looking, Lai Er secretly sprinkled arge bag of poisonous powder onto the washed meat. The powder was colorless and odorless, so ordinary people couldnt spot it at all. Very soon, Little Five and Six threw the meat into the wok and began frying it. The effect of the powder was not intense. It would take about 20 minutes for the drug to take effect, which was exactly when the customers finished their meals. After a while, cries broke the peace of the restaurant. Some customers groaned in pain, looking as if they had stomach aches. Things got out of hand as more and more customers held their bellies with both hands and imed to have stomach aches. Naturally, they thought the culprit was the food they had eaten. Then, all the customers put down their chopsticks and stopped eating. Daunted by the miserable groans, some people stopped in their tracks and did not enter the restaurant. Li Hongmei was scared out of her wits. Oh, what happened? What should I do? Hastily, she asked Little Five and Little Six to send the sick people to the nearby clinics and herbal medicine shops. But as more and more people began to develop a stomach ache, she waspelled to send for the doctors toe to them. In the blink of an eye, the restaurant turned into a clinic. Some onlookers blocked the doorway gloating over the misfortune. The doctors did not bring enough medicine, which forced Li Hongmei to keepvishing her money on buying more. Some anguished customers threw angry rebukes at her. They scolded her for having no conscience and questioned her why she didnt guarantee the food quality. What was worse, they said that they would report the case to the authorities. Li Hongmei almost fainted under the pressure. Fortunately, Ye Xiaoxian arrived in time. She was steadier than Li Hongmei. Soberly, she asked what dishes the patients had eaten, who had bought the ingredients that morning and who had been to the kitchen. Just as the fire tender told her Lai Ers name, government troops rushed in. The officer in charge of the troops threatened to arrest Ye Xiaoxian, the owner of the unscrupulous restaurant, on suspicion of poisoning. It was clear that someone had reported the case. Ye Xiaoxian said, Im innocent. Our fire tender just told me that an outsider came here today. Perhaps it was he who put the poison in the food. You cant arrest me without good reason. If you want to interrogate me, please ask Lai Er toe over first. Chapter 160 - Imprisonment

Chapter 160: Imprisonment The constable said, I dont know who Lai Er is. Even if hes the criminal, you have to follow us to the government office for questioning. Arrest her!

Rendered speechless, Ye Xiaoxian was then escorted to the government office. When Li Hongmei learned about the bad news in the lobby, she was so anxious that she stumbled. Lord! Oh, Lord! How did all of this happen? Please bless and protect Little Ye! ... At the entrance of the government office, Xiao Tieshu caught sight of Ye Xiaoxian under escort. He hurried to ask the constable at the rear, What happened? Why are you arresting her? What did she do? Shes suspected of poisoning at her restaurant. Many people have been seriously poisoned! the constable said. Hearing this, Xiao Tieshu immediately asked his wife to help Li Hongmei. He then headed for the docks to inform Xiao Baoshan of this news. Ye Xiaoxian had thought that she would be fine in the government office because she knew that neither she nor any of her staff were the culprit. Who would poison their customers? How could she or her staff cut off their sources of ie? She had thought that she could defend herself, but the fact was that she was put into jail right away. Sir, cant I defend myself? Sir? she cried out her grievance from behind the bars of the cell. The constable ignored her cries and left after locking her inside. Sir, what are you doing? What about the investigation? Let me meet the chief! Ye Xiaoxian shouted anxiously, thumping the bars hard. She hadnt expected that things would be so serious. Now that they had put her in prison, they might also torture her until they got a false confession. The constable still didnt answer. A jailermanded, Be quiet! Ye Xiaoxian looked around the somber cell which was pervaded by a musty smell and various other odors. Some prisoners who seemed to have been there for years stared at her expressionlessly. Suddenly, a wave of horror swept over her. She had never been so frightened. She finally realized that she might have been framed. In the backyard of the government office. Sister Xiang was sitting in front of the chief. Between them was a pot of wine, the tempting smell of which filled the air. Sister Xiang poured a cup of wine for the chief and said, Sir, I think you can skip the interrogation of Ye Xiaoxian. The chief knew what she was implying. If I dont investigate, how should I exin to the inspectors who maye one day? he asked. As usual, she acted quite calmly and stubbornly, as if she was not asking a favor. To be honest, she seldom yed the woman card to beg him. But the tougher she was, the guiltier the chief felt. Whether I interrogate her or not, the arrest will unavoidably influence her business. I can turn a blind eye to what you have done, but I cant keep her in prison. Shes weak, but her husband is not a man to be trifled with. Sister Xiang gazed at him with a pitiful look. What difference does it make whether shes imprisoned or not? Both eyewitnesses and material evidence are presented here. If you release her, people will think that youre bending thew to cover up for the guilty party. He asked, Who are the eyewitnesses? Where is this material evidence? Those poisoned are the eyewitnesses. As for material evidence, you can find it from the leftovers in Ye Xiaoxians restaurant. Feed them to a dog. If the dog gets sick, then her restaurant is to me for the whole case. But why did she do that? To ruin her future in jail? You could say that shes a maniac! Xiang... The chief had no idea how to persuade her. If he carried out the investigation, Lai Er and Sister Xiang would be inevitably imprisoned. Chapter 161 - Stamping out the Source of Trouble

Chapter 161: Stamping out the Source of Trouble Although Sister Xiang was not the county magistrates wife, she had been apanion of his for years. He didnt have the heart to put her in such a hopeless position. If Xiao Baoshan couldnt prove Ye Xiaoxians innocence, he would leave her in jail for life.

Have you handled Lai Er? he asked. Sister Xiang answered at once, Yes! Ive given him some money and asked him to hide elsewhere. Hearing that, he shook his head in disapproval. You should be neater. It would be better to stamp out the source of trouble in case he might ckmail you some day. She found that she couldnt agree more. When Xiao Baoshan arrived at the restaurant, Ye Xiaoxian was already in prison. The ce was in an awful mess. Some rtives of the patients were even venting their anger on the utensils, tables and chairs, smashing them to pieces. Out of fear, Li Hongmei hid under the counter and shivered involuntarily. Xiao Baoshan stopped the trouble-makers and promised topensate them. He said quite seriously that if they continued making trouble, he would instead ask them forpensation. These people, incited by Sister Xiangs servants, were all daunted by this tall, robust man. Immediately, the crowd dispersed and the disturbance came to a temporary halt. Li Hongmei climbed out from behind the counter and cried out loud, Baoshan, youre finally back! I, I was almost scared to death just now! Its all right now. Mom, pleasepensate the patients well. I have to go to the government office now. Okay, I know. Little Ye was arrested, and I dont know what is going on now. Li Hongmei said as she sniffled. Xiao Baoshan asked Little Five and Little Six to take care of his mother and headed for the government office. Xiao Tieshu had been waiting at the gate of the government office. Seeing his nephew arrive, he said instantly, Baoshan, Im afraid that things are very serious. They didnt even question Little Ye before putting her in prison. I went to the jail just now and learned that shes safe for the time being. No ones torturing her. But I dont know what our county magistrate is thinking. He hasnt taken any action. Still? Xiao Baoshan frowned involuntarily. Baoshan, I hope you can investigate how this incident happened and what poison it was. We should take the initiative rather than being led by the nose. Gratefully, Xiao Baoshan patted Xiao Tieshu on his shoulder and said, Uncle, please help me take good care of Little Ye. Youre right. I should find out the truth. Good boy! Xiao Tieshu wasforted. After they parted ways, Xiao Baoshan first headed for a clinic and asked an old doctor what poison had caused the trouble. The doctor, however, was also perplexed. I also have no idea what poison it is. It is weird. Those poisoned will vomit and suffer abdominal pain within one hour of ingesting, but they will recover automatically. What I prescribed was just some ordinary medicine to cure stomach illness. The patients mainly recovered by themselves. After that, Xiao Baoshan returned to the restaurant. He asked the people present numerous questions, including where they had bought the food and what water or sources they had used. But the answers he got were the same. Everything had been as normal that day. The ingredients had all been bought and washed as usual. Nothing unusual had happened. The only difference was that Lai Er had been to the kitchen that day. Chapter 162 - Tasting the Poison for Himself

Chapter 162: Tasting the Poison for Himself The fire tender, Lai Ers rtive, recalled that Lai Er had been in the kitchen alone for a while. But he didnt know whether Lai Er had put the poison in the food.

Xiao Baoshan asked him where Lai Er lived because he had to find him. ... Led by the fire tender, Xiao Baoshan found Lai Ers home at the end of ane. The door was wide open, showing the stark emptiness inside. Nothing was worth stealing. Two pieces of clothing were hung in the courtyard as if they had been forgotten for a long time. The rice jar was empty. So was the bed. The owner might have been out for two days and judging by the wine jar, Lai Er was an out-and-out alcoholic. Without hesitation, Xiao Baoshan went to the local pubs to inquire about Lai Ers whereabouts. A waiter in a pub told him that Lai Er had just left for the dock. Xiao Baoshan hurried to the dock and asked Xing San and Skinny Monkey whether they had met a man holding a wine jar. But the dock was always packed with so many people that they had no recollection of this man at all. Therefore, Xiao Baoshan searched around the dock by himself. At that moment, Lai Er was sitting under the canopy of a boat not far away. He was drinking, carefree, holding some heavy silver in his arms. As the boat drifted away, another boat followed close behind it. Neither the boatman nor Lai Er paid much attention to it until two masked men in ck suddenly jumped out from the boat. Then, they leaped into the water and turned the boat over with some strength. Lai Er struggled hard in the river, his eyes fixed on the wine jar floating on the surface. There was still half of it left to drink. ... The bodies of Lai Er and the boatman were found the next day. It was said that they had died from drowning. No wounds could be found on Lai Ers body, and the money was also gone. It was assumed that some problem with the boat had caused the ident. Lai Er didnt have any rtives, while the boatmans rtions knew that they were in the wrong and didnt dare to voice a grievance. The lead was lost. Still, Xiao Baoshan didnt lose heart. He returned to the restaurant and let Li Hongmei describe to him all of the patients symptoms. He didnt want to miss any details. Li Hongmei said, They held their bellies with both hands at first, sweated and then couldnt move at all. When the doctors arrived, some people had already got better. It was just like a normal stomach ache. Xiao Baoshan urged, Mom, please give me more details. Li Hongmei thought carefully and finally added, Well, one thing was different. Apart from stomach aches, some people also put one hand on their lower backs, as if they also ached there. After pondering for a while, he walked into the kitchen. The restaurant had been closed after the incident, but the leftovers hadnt been thrown away. After listening to the descriptions of the patients, he suspected that the problemy in the meat. He made a fire and began frying the meat. Xian, Little Five and Little Six, who lived in the backyard, didnt understand why he was cooking the meat. It had been hottely. Although the meat was preserved in salt, it was not that fresh. Xiao Baoshan fried it until the delicious smell filled the air. Calmly, he used chopsticks to throw a piece of meat into his mouth. Brother Baoshan... Little Five and Six were stunned by his behavior. After finishing the meal, Xiao Baoshan sat quietly. The symptoms gradually manifested. As he held his belly hard, he felt a searing pain in his back, as if something was thumping his body from inside. Immediately, he was drenched with sweat. Chapter 163 - Lai Er Was the Poisoner

Chapter 163: Lai Er Was the Poisoner Only after one hour did the pain begin to lessen. The sweat on Xiao Baoshan also turned cold. He turned to Little Five and Little Six and said, I have to go on a long journey. Please look after the restaurant.

Little Five asked, Brother Baoshan, how long will you be gone? About three days, perhaps five. Xiao Baoshan replied. Since Ye Xiaoxians restaurant had got into this mess, Sister Xiangs business began prospering again. Although the tastes were light and the prices were high, customers believed that their health was guaranteed there. At least they wouldnt experience what they had suffered in Ye Xiaoxians restaurant. Some assumed that The Xiaos Cuisine had bought stale meat, and some guessed that something had gone wrong with the sauces. After all, Ye Xiaoxian had been making the sauces privately at home. It was likely that she had used the wrong ingredients. Sister Xiang was wild with joy on seeing so many customers cramming into her inn. Humph! Ye Xiaoxian, youre just a clodhopper, Sister Xiang thought. Youre not qualified to be my rival at all. As for Lai Er, I dont care about him at all. He was really a good-for-nothing. Good riddance to him. ... Ye Xiaoxian had been in prison for two days. Her desperation increased as time went by. At the very beginning, she thought that she would soon be released after being interrogated. But she had in fact spent the night in the cell. After that, she felt herself no better than the other prisoners. Her hair was messy and her face greasy. The food provided there always smelled off. She had been curious as to why the food in prison was sour. Why did they allocate the food after it had spoiled? But now she had the answer. The rice was of the poorest quality and smelled naturally sour even if it was freshly cooked. She couldnt cope with the taste at first. Butter, for survival, she waspelled to close her eyes and chew the food. Xiao Tieshu slipped in once and told her that Xiao Baoshan was investigating the case. Ye Xiaoxian was confused. Shouldnt it be the county magistrate who conducted the investigation? Why was Xiao Baoshan having to do this? But Xiao Tieshu said that the county magistrate might have convicted her of the crime without any investigation or giving her any real sentence. After saying this, Xiao Tieshu heaved a deep sigh and cast a sympathetic look towards her. Downhearted, Ye Xiaoxian shivered involuntarily. ... During these past days, Liu Qianqian had also been running about to help Ye Xiaoxian. Jia Zhenbo and her had fallen in love and nned to marry at the end of the following month. Since their first meeting, they had been writing letters to each other asionally. Everything was so sweet for them until Ye Xiaoxian got into trouble. It was a pity that Squire Liu and his family didnt get themselves involved in official circles or have a close rtionship with the county magistrate. Therefore, they could merely give the jailers money to take some delicious food to Ye Xiaoxian. Four dayster, Xiao Baoshan was back with a new piece of information. The toxic substance was amaranth poison, which was mix into a powder. Amaranth powder was normally used to cure malignant sores, but other than that it could be quite dangerous. When it was put in food, it would be a poison that was highly toxic yet temporary. In the county, amaranth powder was only sold by The Huangs Herbal Medicine Shop. Xiao Baoshan went there and asked the boss who had bought any amaranth powder recently. ording to the bosss description, Lai Er was the one who had bought the most amaranth powder. Chapter 164 - As Long As You Beg Me

Chapter 164: As Long As You Beg Me Lai Er had a ck mole at the corner of his eyebrow and was dressed slovenly with dishevelled hair. He was so deprived that he couldnt have bought almost all the amaranth powder in the shop. The amaranth powder was not cheap, one silver tael per pack. But he had bought three packs at a time.

Since Lai Er was now dead, Xiao Baoshan inquired about who Lai Er had met withtely. He asked one person after another as he walked down to the depths of the alley. ording to the neighbors descriptions, a morous, dignified woman who was in her 40s had oncee through the alley. Xiao Baoshan was not sure who she was, so he went to the pub to get more information. On the day Lai Er died he had paid off all his debts to the pub. He looked quitecent, so the pub owner asked him whether he had won some money gambling. Lai Er denied that, however, and simply said that he had gained arge sum of money through good fortune. He had also advised everyone to have meals in the Xiang Lin Inn. Xiao Baoshan lowered his head, lost in thought. The Xiang Lin Inn? ... Very soon, news of Ye Xiaoxians misfortuneune reached Fang Shanding. She poisoned her customers? He sneered. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt have the nerve to poison her food. Besides, what could she benefit from that? Would anyone destroy their own booming business? It was clear that Ye Xiaoxian had been framed. In fact, the case was very easy to solve. The county magistrate just needed to check the sources of the food and the people who had touched it. But it was strange that the county magistrate hadnt questioned Ye Xiaoxian before immediately locking her up. Fang Shanding quickly understood that the county magistrate was covering up for someone. Someone he was familiar with. She was his darling and Ye Xiaoxians rival. Behind all of this was Sister Xiang. Having put up with Ye Xiaoxian for a long time, Fang Shanding could finally vent his anger. Although he had been removed from office, he had some acquaintances who could let him into the prison. Every dog had its day. It was his turn to humiliate Ye Xiaoxian. At this moment, Fang Shanding was walking down the long passage, passing a session of cells to find Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian was somewhat popr in her circle. Although she was put in jail, she looked rtively healthy with tidy clothes. It was clear that some people had been sending her food from time to time. She was a little messy nheless, because she hadntbed her hair or washed her face for days. Fang Shanding tutted at the sight of Ye Xiaoxian and said, Oh god, I was just wondering who you were? Its you, Miss Ye! Werent you the best chef in the county? Why are you here? Did you offend anyone? I told you that you should be more tactful. If you behave too stubbornly, people will only add insult to your injury. Sitting in the cell, Ye Xiaoxian looked at Fang Shanding indifferently. His hair hadnt grown out yet and even the hat failed to conceal his baldness. He had onlye here to humiliate her. Ye Xiaoxian was not in the mood to interact with him. She was inside and he was outside. She couldnt go out and he couldnte in. Fang Shanding squatted down and asked from the other side of the bars, Well, I can let you out for a while. Although I cant promise to release you, you can at least take a good bath, as long as you beg me. Chapter 165 - Beg you? Impossible!

Chapter 165: Beg you? Impossible! Ye Xiaoxian responded as a heroine usually did in TV shows. She stared at Fang Shanding and said, Bah! Beg you? Impossible!

She added, You think I dont know what you want to do to me? Why dont you piss a puddle on the ground to have a good look at yourself in? Youre old, have children filling your house and you think youre charming. Look at your eyes sticking together with gunk. I dont believe youve washed your face in five or six days. And your nose, I mean, is that actually a garlic bulb? Your forehead is as narrow as that of a monkey. As for your belly, I suspect its bigger than that of a woman whos seven or eight months pregnant. Looking the way you do, you want to carry on with a hot woman like me? Ye Xiaoxian was full ofints after several days in prison, and Fang Shanding just came in time to be her punching bag. How could she waste such a rare opportunity? Fang Shanding grimaced on hearing her insults. He must have been blind not to realise what a viper she was. He had thought she was a restraineddy who had a temper but was not that fiery. Now it seemed that she was indeed a hot little pepper. Ye Xiaoxian, dont be so stubborn and ungrateful. Who do you think you are? I tell you, I can easily make you obedient! Looking at the bars between them, she said coldly, All right, do it! Fang Shanding was allowed in because one of his acquaintances was a jailer there. He told his friend that Ye Xiaoxian was his lover. As long as she agreed, he could then take her to have a bath and have dinner inside the prison. In other words, he couldnt take her out of the prison. But now, Ye Xiaoxian not only disagreed but also cursed Fang Shanding, which made the jailer hesitant to help his friend. Fang Shanding was infuriated by Ye Xiaoxians attitude. All right, you can stay there, but I can also go in to teach you a lesson. This is what you deserve! When he was about to ask the jailer to open the door, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu hurried in. They knew that Fang Shanding was hostile towards Ye Xiaoxian, so when they learned that he was in the prison they had hurried over and found that he wanted to get her out. If they didnt stop him, he would definitely defile her. They wouldnt have protected Ye Xiaoxian like this in the past, but now that their wives had made up with her, they felt a responsibility to look after this family member. In order to stop Fang Shanding, they had asked all their acquaintances in the government office for help. As a result, they were allowed to visit Ye Xiaoxian, but still, they had to rack their brains for all kinds of reasons to prevent Fang Shanding from doing evil deeds. Seeing them, Fang Shanding and his friend didnt dare act rashly, out of fear of getting themselves into trouble. After Fang Shanding left angrily, Ye Xiaoxian looked at Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu with gratitude. She would have been harmed by Fang Shanding if they hadnte to help her. Uncles, do you know where Baoshan is? Ye Xiaoxian asked. During these recent days she had been expecting to meet Xiao Baoshan but he hadnt appeared once. She wondered whether he was trying to save her. Xiao Tieshu replied, Hes been collecting evidence for you. Dont worry. Hell save you after he finds something convincing. Yes, hes so capable and loyal. I believe he will soone back. ... Ye Xiaoxian didnt answer. I hope so, she thought. Chapter 166 - A Court Appeal

Chapter 166: A Court Appeal The beating of drums sounded at the entrance of the government office. They were fast and loud, as if voicing a grievance. The county magistrate must hold the court hearing no matter who was beating the drum.

The drummer was in fact Xiao Baoshan. He was back with enough evidence to prove that Lai Er had been the poisoner and that Sister Xiang had been the instigator behind the scenes. Immediately, quite a few people crowded around the entrance of thew court. Hearing about this, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu hurried over to see what was happening. Xiao Baoshan had brought witnesses with him; the pub owner, Lai Ers neighbor and the owner of the only pharmacy that sold amaranth powder. The county magistrate opened the court session and struck his wooden block. What is your name? I am Xiao Baoshan! Why were you beating the drum? Several days ago, my wife was wrongly used as the poisoner and was put in jail. I want to defend her. The county magistrate sneered. Oh? Do you mean the case of the Xiaos restaurant? Despite endangering peoples lives, Ye Xiaoxian put poison into the dishes, harming 12 innocent customers in total. Theres no doubt that shes the poisoner. Xiao Baoshan said, Sir, my wife is the owner of this restaurant. She has no motive for poisoning her customers. If the customers are poisoned, what can she gain get from that? Xiao Baoshans words made sense. How could she poison her customers? The onlookers outside began having a heated discussion. The county magistrate snorted. How should I know her motive? Perhaps her businesses was doing so well that she wanted to stir up something to break the peace. Xiao Baoshan suddenly raised his head. His stare was as sharp as a zipping arrow, which gave the county magistrate quite a start. How dare you! Did I say you could raise your head? Xiao Baoshan took back his harsh re and said, Sir, it makes sense only for a rival in the same industry to do such a thing. A rival? the county magistrate repeated, visibly panicked. Then tell me who would want to frame her? Xiao Baoshan replied, Sir, as far as I know, the customers were poisoned with amaranth powder. I have three witnesses. The first witness is the pharmacy owner. He says that Lai Er bought amaranth powder in his shop before he died several days ago. It is noted that Lai Er went to the Xiaos restaurant to visit his rtive when the case urred. The second witness is the pub owner. That day, Lai Er went to the pub to buy liquor with a silver tael and imed that he had paid off his debts. Someone must have asked him tomit the crime with for arge sum of money. The third witness is Lai Ers neighbor. Two days before the incident, he saw the owner of the Xiang Lin Inn entering Lai Ers house. After he had said this, tongues wagged more loudly outside. The evidence clearly showed that Sister Xiang was the instigator. Both the onlookers and the office attendants began to look thoughtful. They knew that Sister Xiang had an unusual rtionship with the county magistrate. She usually went to the backyard of the government office and he always went for a drink at the Xiang Lin Inn. After listening to Xiao Baoshans statement, the county magistrate became flustered. He hadnt expected that Xiao Baoshan would investigate the case and link all the clues so precisely. What should he do now? Should he cover up for Sister Xiang? Or should he summon her to the court and just muddle through? The people were all waiting for him to make a fair judgment. Under public supervision, he finally sent his people to summon Sister Xiang. Chapter 167 - Come With Me, Away From Here

Chapter 167: Come With Me, Away From Here Before Long, Sister Xiang walked into the court. She shivered when she heard the news. You devil, didnt you promise not to hold a court hearing? Why did you change your mind? The office attendant had told her what happened in advance. She learned that the county magistrate was pressed to hold the court hearing because Xiao Baoshan had beaten the drum.

Sister Xiang tried her best to calm down. Anyway, Lai Er was dead. Unless Xiao Baoshan had found the killers, no one could prove that she was the instigator. Fortunately, the killers she had hired didnt leave any evidence for Xiao Baoshan to find. As she had anticipated, the killers didnt appear in court. Her confidence was boosted. Now that the killers had not been found, she wouldnt be condemned as the instigator, no matter how many witnesses Xiao Baoshan found. She was at most a suspect. Then, anotherplicated round of questioning began. Throughout the process, the county magistrate intended to cover up for Sister Xiang and she refused to plead guilty. In the end, he concluded that Lai Er might have been the poisoner, but no decisive evidence proved that Sister Xiang was behind it. He added that Ye Xiaoxian, instead, might be the real one behind the plot. Even though there were shouts of disapproval, the case was wound up in a rather slipshod fashion with theck of evidence. When the trial was over, Xiao Baoshan stared coldly at the county magistrate and all the other people in the court. His fists were firmly clenched. ... Although the case had made a stir in the county, it was just like a stone thrown into a peacefulke. The ripples soon faded. People would not know that the pharmacy owner was threatened and the pub owner was beaten on his way home dayster. After the hearing, Xiao Baoshan wanted to break Ye Xiaoxian out of the prison right away and get far away from this filthy ce. But he thought he should listen to Ye Xiaoxians opinions first. Therefore, he went to the prison. Ye Xiaoxian looked like she was wasting away after spending days in prison. Her swollen eyes suggested she hadnt enjoyed a delicious meal or a sound sleep in days. Xiao Baoshans heart ached as he saw her pale face and he felt an urge to twist open the bars. My love,e with me, away from here! Xiao Baoshan said firmly, his hands grasping the bars. Once she agreed, he would immediately smash the door open without much effort. But she shook her head in disapproval. Indeed it was easy for Xiao Baoshan to take her out of the prison and flee far away. She knew he was capable of it. However, they would then be wanted fugitives. It was not worthwhile to escape for the rest of their lives just because of such a trivial matter. Besides, they should consider their family. Li Hongmei, Xiao Baofeng and Xiao Baozhu. Li Hongmei, stricken in years, needed more peace than adventure. Xiao Baofeng had been learning well at school. Xiao Baozhu was in an awkward position in the Wong family and would be mocked if they ran away. Baoshan, I dont want to go. Im innocent. We can appeal to the provincial governor, to the capital. I must protest my innocence. I wont let this despicable county magistrate hoodwink the public! Little Ye... Xiao Baoshan knew what she was thinking, but he didnt have the heart to see her suffering in here. Chapter 168 - Baoshan is Leaving

Chapter 168: Baoshan is Leaving Mom, Little Ye is fine. Dont worry. Xiao Baoshan said calmly.

Then, Li Hongmei asked anxiously. When can she be released? Baoshan, we should do something. We must save Little Ye from prison. I heard from the neighbors that the county magistrate was covering up for Sister Xiang in court. He holds the greatest power in this county and we cant expect justice from him. Can you ask your friends in the provincial capital for help? Li Hongmei didnt believe that her son was merely an ordinary person. Even though he hid it well, she knew he must have a widework of friends. Xiao Baoshan answered in a t tone, Mom, trust me. I know what to do. I know you can sort it out. Li Hongmei wiped the tears from her eyes. There were not so many customers in the restaurant. Xiao Baoshan helped her clean the tables and arrange the chairs properly. After that, he turned to Li Hongmei and said, Mom, Ill be gone for two days. To the provincial capital? Li Hongmei asked. He nodded. Take care, my boy, Li Hongmei said. Walking up to her, he put his hands on her shoulders and said, Mom, Ill see you. Li Hongmei was somehow stunned. Why did she feel that her son would nevere back again? But Ye Xiaoxian was waiting for their rescue. Suppressing her worry, she said, See you, Baoshan. Li Hongmeis eyes kept on twitchingtely. She wasnt in the mood to look after the business anymore. Every day when she went to the restaurant, she would stand at the entrance and strain her eyes for her sons figure. She had a hunch that something bad would happen after her son left. Xian sometimes asked her, What are you waiting for? Li Hongmei replied, Im waiting for two pieces of news one is good and the other is bad. Xian asked in surprise, How do you know that? I know from my twitching eyes. Xian just found that funny and didnt believe it at all. In his opinion, she was so worried about Little Ye that she was making such baseless assumptions. But Li Hongmei insisted that her hunch was right, whatever other people thought. This case was much moreplicated than a tax rebate. When they defended their rightst time, they had irond evidence which they had stolen from Fang Shanding. But now, the hope was pinned on the men who had killed Lai Er and fled far away. The time spent finding them would be an unbearable torture for Ye Xiaoxian. The top priority was to get Ye Xiaoxian out of prison, so they must ask a higher-up for help and strive for a fair trial. Xiao Baoshan would find that higher-up, and his would be the good news. On the other hand, he would expose a secret which he had been trying to hide. That might be the bad news. As for what the secret was, she had no idea at all. She just felt that nothing could be more important than Ye Xiaoxian. The good news was finally heard two dayster. The provincial governor wasing, seemingly to investigate the case. Li Hongmei was more than excited. She thought it must be her son who had asked the provincial governor over. The county magistrate was terribly frightened by the provincial governors visit. He soon confessed that he had covered up for Sister Xiang and knew the truth from the very beginning. Then, the provincial governor summoned Sister Xiang who couldnt help shivering with fear. She immediately confessed her guilt and gave the names of the two killers. As a result, the county magistrate was dismissed, Sister Xiangs inn closed, and Ye Xiaoxian was released from prison. Chapter 169 - Let Him Be a Fleeing Rabbit

Chapter 169: Let Him Be a Fleeing Rabbit Ye Xiaoxian was dazzled by the bright sunlight as she walked out of the prison. Having been suffocated for days in jail, she could finally get a breath of fresh air outside. Xiao Baoshan was there waiting for her. Bathed in sunlight, he was tall and handsome, smiling as gently as a spring breeze. Baoshan... Ye Xiaoxian ran towards him but paused halfway. She was afraid that her smell would disgust him. Seeing that, he strode over to her at once. Baoshan, dont get close to me. Im dirty and smelly! she said hastily. Xiao Baoshan smiled and didnt stop. Then, he held her hand in his firmly. Lets go home together! Ye Xiaoxian tried her best not to be too close to him as they walked home together.

The news that she had been released spread throughout the county. Li Hongmei, Liu Qianqian, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu all came to celebrate her return. Li Hongmei set several tables to hold a weing dinner for Ye Xiaoxian, set off firecrackers and let her stride over a brazier to dispel any bad luck. After Ye Xiaoxian had cleaned herself up, she enjoyed the feast with her family and friends. Liu Qianqian asked her whether she had been frightened in prison. Ye Xiaoxian said, No. You were helping me all the time, so I was not afraid at all. After saying that, she took a nce at Xiao Baoshan who had given her the greatest support. Just then, Xiao Baoshans eyes met hers. But they looked profound, not as joyful as she had expected. What is weighing on his mind? That night, Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshany in bed together with their fingers entwined. For a long while, they remained silent. Ye Xiaoxian didnt know what to say. She was still in a trance after so many days in custody. At the same time, Xiao Baoshan was preupied with his own thoughts. He had been wordless since Ye Xiaoxian was released, though his eyes were always fixed on her. At this moment, he turned over and held Ye Xiaoxian gently in his arm, but he still showed no intention of speaking. Baoshan, are you hiding something from me? Ye Xiaoxian asked. He smiled softly. My love, I might have a long trip in a couple of days. Well, to deliver goods? Xiao Baoshan didnt answer. She gave up the question and asked another. When will youe back? He still evaded the question. Come back? He also wondered whether he coulde back or not. Ye Xiaoxian kept asking, Baoshan, did you beg someone you shouldnt beg or do something you shouldnt do just to save me? Suddenly, he rolled over and put his weight on her like a tired beast. Ye Xiaoxian told herself that she must have overthought it all. The provincial governor didnt look like someone that would force people to do anything excessive. Then, she put her confusion aside and enjoyed this fleshly indulgence with her whole heart. Ming Wei Generals Office in the capital. This was the mansion of a fourth-ranked general, where Qian Qi held a post. He was 35 years old and about 6 feet 2 inches tall. One year ago, he returned from the northern battlefield to nurse his injuries. Since the tension of war was eased, he had been staying in the capital. One day, when he was strolling around the backyard with a caged bird, his subordinate reported, General Qian, weve found Xiao Baoshan! Xiao Baoshan? Qian Qi was astonished. Do you mean the previous seniormandant of the cavalry? Yes! How did you get this information? Where is he? Qian Qi asked. Hes in Qinghe county. Several days ago, the provincial governor reported that Xiao Baoshan had ordered him to handle a case for him using a military token. Qian Qi rubbed his chin, lost in thought. Then, a sneer crossed his face. All right. Now that he doesnt want to be a cowardly turtle anymore, we can let him be a rabbit, a fleeing rabbit! Chapter 170 - Hes Gone

Chapter 170: Hes Gone When Ye Xiaoxian awoke from a sweet dream, her hand fumbled for Xiao Baoshan subconsciously. Nobody was next to her. No warmth could be felt on the sheet. Why did he get up so early? she thought. He must be cooking breakfast. He was always quite diligent at home, always upied with any possible household chores. Ye Xiaoxian was still sleepy and weary, so she soon fell asleep again. When the sun was high in the sky, in a daze she heard Li Hongmei saying loudly, Little Ye, its time for breakfast! She hastened to get up and opened the door only to find Li Hongmei alone in the yard. Mom, where is Baoshan? she asked. Isnt he in your bedroom? Li Hongmei was surprised. I got up at dawn to make breakfast, but I didnt see him. Was he earlier than me? Suddenly, Ye Xiaoxian was struck by a bad feeling. Little Ye, are you all right? Li Hongmei was confused when she saw Ye Xiaoxians face turning pale.

Ye Xiaoxian didnt answer. She turned back to her bedroom and got changed, nning to head out to find Xiao Baoshan. However, she paused while dressing. Where could she find him? He had told her that he would leave for a while in two days. Had he actually left today? Or did he just go out for a while and woulde back at noon or in the afternoon? Li Hongmei could tell from Ye Xiaoxians absent-mindedness that something was wrong, so she followed Ye Xiaoxian into the bedroom. Little Ye, dont worry. Baoshan... Just then, she found an envelope on the table. She pointed at it nervously and asked, Little Ye, what is this? Ye Xiaoxian finally noticed it. The envelope was so conspicuous, so why hadnt she seen it just now? She ripped the envelope open and unfolded the letter. After a moment, her face turned even paler. ... At that moment, Xiao Baoshan was standing at the foot of a mountain. In front of him were two ck-robed men. They didnt bother to cover their faces, so were obviously acquainted with him. Their aim was very clear; to kill Xiao Baoshan. The round-faced man pointed his sword at him. Xiao Baoshan, youre still alive! How do you have the nerve to be alive? Have you forgotten your identity? Have you forgotten how many innocent lives died by your bloody hands? The square-faced man also aimed his sword at Xiao Baoshan, I heard that youre married, but you do not deserve it! Xiao Baoshan remained silent. The round-faced man continued, Xiao Baoshan, your sins have nothing to do with your family. If youre obedient, then we will spare them. Even if you escape this time, youll be killed by others sooner orter. Do you know how many people in the imperial court wish to kill you? Xiao Baoshan still didnt answer. He frowned tightly, seemingly worried about something. He was not a cowardly man, but he couldnt die, because he had met someone he loved with his whole heart. As the men dashed at him with swords, he fled deep into the mountain using his superb light-body skill. The round-faced man shouted anxiously, Go! ... Over the following days, quite a few people went to the county to inquire about Xiao Baoshans whereabouts. Many in the county knew Xiao Baoshan, so they all guided the strangers to the Xiaos restaurant. Chapter 171 - He Had Nothing to Do with Her

Chapter 171: He Had Nothing to Do with Her

Annoyed by the bombardment of questions, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei began asking in reply who the strangers were. These groups of people were more than arrogant, but it was strange that none of them were willing to give their names. They looked rather fierce when mentioning Xiao Baoshan, as if they had a vendetta against him. Ye Xiaoxian guessed that they came to take vengeance. Had Xiao Baoshan exposed his identity because of her? Why did he have so many enemies who came in group after group? Was that the reason why he had left without saying goodbye? Was he afraid of getting her into trouble? She was furious that he had left so suddenly and written such a letter. She swore that she would never forgive him even if he came back. But the daunting number of his enemies reminded her that Xiao Baoshan also had a hard time. Therefore, she changed her mind. She could forgive him if he came back within a month and would exin everything to her. However, he still didnt show up even two monthster. Disappointment swelled in her heart. As she grew impatient with the strange visitors, her tone became increasingly aggressive and harsh. One day, a group of people even threatened them with violence. On entering the restaurant they smashed several bowls on the ground in a surly manner. To avoid getting themselves into trouble, some customers fled in panic before finishing their meals. Hearing the noise, Li Hongmei rushed out of the kitchen followed by Ye Xiaoxian. The men said abusively, A month has passed and you havent given us any information. You must know where he is. If you go on like this, well definitely pull down your restaurant! Li Hongmei had been very scared a month ago, treating them well with delicious food and drinks. But now, she had had enough. Just then, she also picked up a bowl and smashed it on the ground. Great! Do it! Pull down my restaurant! Ive told you hes not here and we dont know where he is. We dont even have any idea whether hes alive or not. Because of you, weve be a joke in the county. People regard us as a family of murderers and our customers are dwindling. Such a restaurant doesnt matter to me anymore. Destroy it! Now! After Li Hongmei had red up, Ye Xiaoxian also exploded. She lifted a chair high and mmed it onto the ground. Arent youing for Xiao Baoshan? Then go and find him! Why do you have the face to bully women? Besides, he has nothing to do with us anymore! The men didnt believe her words at all. Are you joking? Youre his wife. How could I believe that he has nothing to do with you? Ye Xiaoxian pulled out the letter from her chest and pped it on a table. You can trust me now! After reading the letter, the men were all astonished. It seemed that Xiao Baoshan was really not in Qinghe county. They stopped creating disturbances and soon left. With the customers scared away, the restaurant became quiet and deserted. Ye Xiaoxian folded the letter slowly, her hands shaking. She hadnt nned on showing the letter because she didnt want to be regarded as someone who had been abandoned. Little Ye... Li Hongmei gazed at Ye Xiaoxian sorrowfully. She wanted to say something tofort her daughter-inw but failed. Ye Xiaoxian shook her head feebly to reassure Li Hongmei. Chapter 172 - Snack Stall

Chapter 172: Snack Stall After calming herself down, Ye Xiaoxian made a thorough analysis of what had happened during these past days. On the one hand, the angry strangers who inquired about Xiao Baoshan were openly hostile to him. On the other hand, they were quite restrained and never hurt her or Li Hongmei. As such, they were neither notorious robbers nor underworld gangs. Otherwise, they wouldnt be so merciful.

Now that she knew they were not wicked antagonists, who on earth were they? Although Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian were not physically harmed, those peoples frequent bothering resulted in fewer customersing to the restaurant. Thend rent and the sries given to the staff had exceeded the costs of opening the restaurant. The restaurant had be difficult to run. Staying there became sheer torture to Ye Xiaoxian who decided to begin a new life elsewhere. Therefore, she closed the restaurant and dismissed the staff. It was fortunate that she had a house in the county, though it had been unupied for a fortnight. She nned to sell some snacks there, just as she had done before. Since her house was near a bustling street, she could earn a living by running a street stall as long as her snacks were delicious. Therefore, she built a concrete oven of European style in her yard to bake some cakes or bread. Although this was not her speciality, she was a good learner and she knew how to make the snacks that suited the locals current tastes. For example, she could knead the dough into the shape of a rabbit or a chick, add some home-made cream and stick eyes and mouths on them. The freshly-baked snacks soon attracted quite a few people who surrounded the stall. Ah! They look nice. What are they? Something to eat? Of course! They are snacks! Its so cruel to bite such lovely creatures. Cruel? Come on! Havent you ever eaten rabbit meat? Havent you eaten chicken or pork? Youve been eating them all the time while these snacks are even not living things. While people were still hesitant, kids couldnt wait to beg the adults to buy some. Ye Xiaoxian cut a loaf of bread into several pieces and generously invited people to have a taste of them. Some thought they were delicious, some found it hard to ept the strange vor. Anyway, the kids liked them very much and pleaded their rtives to buy the snacks. Ye Xiaoxian sold the snacks at a moderate price because she didnt need to pay any rent now. Besides, as a weed, frequent visitor to the vegetable market, she could buy her ingredients at a lower price. For example, if an egg was sold for five copper coins, she could get it for four copper coins. Owing to their tastiness and cheapness, the snacks soon sold very well. Although this was merely a small business, the money she earned was enough to cover the daily expenses of Li Hongmei, Xiao Baofeng and her. Strangers still came to inquire about Xiao Baoshan and left empty-handed. Gradually, such annoying visits happened less and less, returning Ye Xiaoxian a peaceful life. However, her disappointment increased day after day. It seemed that Xiao Baoshan would never return. ... Several days after the snack stall had opened, Xiao Baozhu finally came to visit her mother. Chapter 173 - Id Rather Believe He is Dead

Chapter 173: Id Rather Believe He is Dead Xiao Baozhu had taken on a brand-new look from head to toe. She was dressed in silk, wearing all kinds of ornate jewelry for a rich mistress. Even more striking was the change in her disposition. Showing no hint of her once modest shyness, she was dignified and stubborn with indifferent eyes. In short, she was no longer her old self. Besides, she was attended to by apliant maid holding various gifts, including clothes and meat.

Seeing her transformation, Li Hongmei was so excited and stunned that she failed to utter a word. Xiao Baozhu said softly, Mom, dont you remember me? Im your daughter. Oh, its so hard to believe what I see! Tears suddenly rolled down Li Hongmeis face. As she strode up to hold Xiao Baozhus hands in hers, she noticed that her skin had be much more delicate. She wore a jade bracelet, which was a sign of a rich and carefree life. Li Hongmei wept as she said, Youre finally living a good life. I dont expect Wang Jiaxiu to be devoted to you. I just hope that you can get better treatment and will never be hurt in his family. Xiao Baozhu gave a reassuring smile. Im fine. Look, Im well treated. She then asked her maid to give the gifts to Li Hongmei, Xiao Baofeng and Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian thanked her dryly as she took the gift. The gift for her was a roll of cloth, but she wasnt in the mood to doll herself up now. When they sat down, Xiao Baozhu said apologetically, Mom, Sister Ye, I know what youve been through, although I didnte back. Im sorry that I didnt stand by your side when you needed help. Ye Xiaoxian smiled warmly. Baozhu, its not your fault. You were also busy at that time. Besides, everything is all right now. Both Mom and I are fine. But my brother... The smile suddenly froze on Ye Xiaoxians lips. Id rather believe he is dead. Silence suddenly fell over them after Ye Xiaoxian had said that. At the same time, the men on the roof were also stunned. Yes, at this moment, two men were lying on the roof. They hid well, even in broad daylight, showing their excellence in martial arts. After a long silence, Xiao Baozhu showed an embarrassed smile and said, Sister Ye, my brother did fail you, but I dont think he meant it. After all, you have spent some happy times together, which makes me envious. He loves you. But no ones loved me, not even for a single day. As the heart-to-heart talk continued, the three women gradually became sentimental. Xiao Baozhu left after chatting a while longer. There was silence again. After a moment, Ye Xiaoxian heaved a deep sigh and said, Mom, I have to prepare tomorrows snacks now. Li Hongmei replied, I can help you. The two men on the roof remained there until it became dark. Then, they jumped down into thene beside the yard. One of them was strikingly handsome, aged around 18. His ck robe was made of the finest cloth, disying his distinguished identity. In contrast, his tone and expression were not that steady and he seemed to have a short fuse. His gracefully arched eyebrows furrowed as if someone owed him arge sum of money. He said arrogantly, No wonder those fatheads couldnt find Xiao Baoshan. Even his wife treats him like he were dead and doesnt expect him to return. Beside him was a 16-year-old boy who appeared to be a footman or bodyguard. He looked more stable than his master. Young Master, do we still need to question this woman? asked the footman, called Fengsheng. The ill-tempered man was named Li Chengru. Li Chengru snorted and said, No. We need to wait patiently. Those people failed just because they exposed their aim so easily. We cant act as rashly as they did. The top priority is to get those women sussed. Shall we take a rest at an inn? Its dark now, Fengsheng warned cautiously. Of course! replied Li Chengru impatiently as he frowned. In Li Chengrus view, the county was small and remote. He felt disgusted, thinking that there wouldnt be a decent inn around here. ... Li Chengru and Fengsheng soon arrived at Jun Lai Inn, the best of its kind in the county. But Li Chengru still frowned with dissatisfaction. This is the best inn? The sheets smelled of mildew, the kettle was coated inside with thick limescale and the edges of the cups had turned ck. Besides, the room was so small, despite being the biggest in the inn, that he felt suffocated. He had suffered a lot all the way down here, including staying at in inns worse than this. What was more, his money bag had been robbed when they passed a town. Fortunately, Fengsheng was agile enough to steal money from the county magistrates house without being noticed. Otherwise, they might have had to beg on the street. Reminding himself of his aim, Li Chengru tried to put up with all of this. He gave a waiter one silver tael and asked him to sterilize the cups with boiling water and prepare water for him to take a bath. Then, he sent Fengsheng to buy two new sheets. After finishing his tasks, the waiter showed up with great hospitality. He asked enthusiastically, Where do youe from? Why are you here? Li Chengru didnt want to talk with the waiter, leaving the boring chat to Fengsheng. Since they might have to stay here for several days, Fengsheng tried not to upset the waiter. After all, he didnt want to be poisoned when having meals. He said, Were just passing through. But the waiter was so overly friendly that he kept talking. Are you on a business trip or visiting rtives? Fengsheng replied, Neither. Were just having a trip. The waiter should have realized he wasnt wee and left, but he didnt. Instead, he asked a surprising question. As youre not on business or visiting rtives, have youe to find someone? Someone like Xiao Baoshan? Li Chengru was stunned, as was Fengsheng. Was their target written on their faces? Or was the waiter so smart that he could easily figure out their aim? Seeing their surprised looks, the waiter exined with a smile, There are too many people searching for Xiao Baoshan to take vengeance. Theye in group after group, causing quite a stir in the county. Its clear that theye fromrge cities because they only stay at the best inn and are quite liberal with money. You just behave the same way. Dammit! Li Chengru cursed to himself. He had thought that he was much smarter than those stupid guys. But then, he saw the issue from a different perspective. Perhaps they couldnt get the information because they acted so rashly that they exposed their aim. As such, he must be more patient. The waiter continued, You have to ask Ye Xiaoxian if you want to find Xiao Baoshan. But she... tut-tut, she looks gentle but is actually quite vicious. Shell yield neither to persuasion nor to coercion. Oh yes, she ran a restaurant before, but now shes selling some snacks in front of her house. I guess that she really doesnt know where Xiao Baoshan is, or she might have told other people about it. Li Chengru thought the opposite. He was convinced that he was wiser than the others and could get the information. Fengsheng knew that his master didnt like to be bothered, so he sent the waiter away immediately. After the door was closed, Fengsheng began helping Li Chengru undress for a bath. Young Master, what do you want to do tonight? Fengsheng asked. Tired, Li Chengru replied, Nothing. We can deal with it tomorrow. Right now I just want to have a good sleep. ... Ye Xiaoxian had been getting up very early since she began selling snacks. But she liked her new way of living. After all, she would finish her job once the snacks were sold out. Then, the rest time was all hers and she could do anything she liked. Her business was prospering as there was a longer queue to buy her snacks in the morning. Most of her customers were locals and a few came from outside the county. Clothes and ents were easy clues to differentiate between the local and non-local people. People from different ces had different ents which one could distinguish between quite easily. Besides, since Qinghe was a small, remote county, peoples style of dressing was rtively more conventional and their cloth was much coarser. So, in this morning, Ye Xiaoxian recognized the two ounders immediately. While one of them was queuing, the other was standing under a willow tree and staring at her fiercely. Her heart couldnt help jolting. They were not ordinary people. They looked quite handsome, especially the one under the tree. He had fair skin, frank eyes and an elegant manner. He had clearly been living a very privileged life with the best food and the finest clothes. What would you like to eat? Ye Xiaoxian removed the cover off a steamer and let Fengsheng select the snacks he wanted. In the steamer were some freshly-made snacks of different shapes which looked alluringly delicate. Fengsheng had thought her business was good just because her snacks were delicious. But at this moment, he was amazed by her ingenuity in kneading the dough so vividly into cute animals. Fengsheng was hesitant, his eyes fixed on the rabbit-like bread. Do you want the rabbits? Seven copper coins for one. How many do you want? Ye Xiaoxian asked with a smile after noticing him staring at the rabbits for a long time. Her smile was so sincere that he failed to keep a straight face. Yes, two rabbits, please. I also want two of each of the other shapes. Chapter 174 - Hes Looking at You Chapter 174: Hes Looking at You Ye Xiaoxian wrapped up the snacks carefully and smiled as she handed them to Fengsheng. Fengsheng got somewhat nervous. As she smiled, her prating eyes narrowed slightly as if she had seen through him. He returned to Li Chengrus side with the snacks and said, Young master, Ive bought the snacks. Look, theyre very delicate, especially the rabbits. As Li Chengru lowered his head, his eyes were drawn to the snacks and he looked somewhat angry. Understanding Li Chengru the best, Fengsheng immediately noticed his irritation. Nervously, he asked, Young master, dont you like rabbits? Why are you angry seeing them? Rabbits were Li Chengrus favorite animals. He raised five white rabbits and five gray ones in his backyard and put various stone carvings of rabbits in his study. I like rabbits, but I dont like eating them. Theyre so lovely. How can we hurt them? Xiao Baoshans wife looks pure, but she has a ruthless heart! Li Chengru said in a rage. So young master just likes watching rabbits rather than eating them. But these are not living things at all. Hes so finicky! Do you want me to throw them away? Fengsheng asked. No! Li Chengru didnt have the heart to dump the cute creatures. Although he was usually irritable, he treasured rabbits very much because they were adorable from all sides. Although he wouldnt eat the rabbits, he could take them as decorations back to the inn. Carefully, he held the snacks in his hands and appreciated their endearing looks. Only a cruel woman would make her snacks into lovely animals. Yes, it must be so! This was Li Chengrus first impression of Ye Xiaoxian aftering here. Mom, Sister Ye, Im back! Xiao Baofeng had the following day off, but he rushed home after thest ss was over. He heard about what had happened recently. Although he didnt care how other people embellished the story or humiliated his family, he had been worried about his mother and Ye Xiaoxian the whole time. In all honesty, his concern for Ye Xiaoxian was greater than for his mother. Li Hongmei loved him out of maternal instinct, but Ye Xiaoxian had no blood rtionship with him at all. She could have kept him working at home rather than sending him to school. But she didnt. She not only paid his tuition fees but also offered him much constructive advice. She asked him to study hard in order to gain status and honor as a schr, which would enable him to protect himself and other people in the future. Undoubtedly, she cared for him sincerely and selflessly. When he was back, Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian were preparing dinner in the kitchen. Seeing him, they were rather delighted. Afraid that he was tired after the journey, Li Hongmei asked him to have a rest until dinner was ready. But Xiao Baofeng felt guilty for not helping them during this difficult time. He couldnt reassure himself by waiting idly while they cooked for him. He therefore put down his bag and hurried to help Ye Xiaoxian wash the vegetables. Sister Ye, let me help you! Xiao Baofeng had one day off every month. Every time he was back, Ye Xiaoxian would find him taller than thest month. She said with a smile, Baofeng, youve grown taller. Keep it up. Dont forget to eat your meals on time and do more sports. You can jog on the grass outside the school in the morning or evening, and Im sure youll then be taller. Sister Ye, I know. You always tell me that, Xiao Baofeng said softly. Good boy. I dont know much about poems, so I cant help you with your studies, but youre so diligent that I dont worry about that at all. she said. She thought that she must have a gift for parenting. She liked to educate kids no matter who they were. Xiao Baofeng nodded and seemed to think of something. Oh yes, the county-level examination will soon be held. My teacher wants me to have a try. With any luck, I can pass it and be a Confucian apprentice. Confucian apprentice? Ye Xiaoxian knew the term whose value was equal to a middle school diploma. The next level was cultivated talent, a rank simr to that of a high school graduate. Although people at this academic level were ubiquitous in modern society, it was something to celebrate in ancient times. After all, many ancient people couldnt afford to let their children go to school. The knowledge ancient people learned was difficult, but they just needed to focus on reading and writing. In contrast, in modern times people had to learn many subjects, including physics, chemistry, English and mathematics. Xiao Baofeng was born as a good learner with proudprehension. He was hard-working and had a good memory. Although he waste to go to school, Ye Xiaoxian believed that he could catch up with his peers. Xiao Baofeng was quite likely to be a Confucian apprentice. Once instructed by Xiao Baoshan, he was able to write a good article with a deep understanding of how to administer a country. He was in no way like Xiao Baocheng who had learned at school for years but couldnt produce any decent work. Ye Xiaoxian said encouragingly, Just do it. Dont let down your teacher. Tell me if you need any help. I can handle your travel expenses and prepare food for you. Hearing that, Xiao Baofeng smiled brightly with gratitude. He swore that he would repay her kindness after he became a distinguished schr. He would protect her as he would his mother. If anyone hurt her, he would be the first to stand up and defend her. Jun Lai Inn. Li Chengru had been staring at the two rabbits since getting back. Sometimes he yed with the soft creatures in his hands; sometimes he just bent over the table, his eyes fixed on them. He had finished the other snacks which he felt were unexpectedly delicious. He hadnt anticipated that he would have a satisfying meal in Qinghe county, but the snacks made by Ye Xiaoxian were obviously beyond his expectations. If provided with ingredients of higher quality and greater variety, Ye Xiaoxian might cook even better than the chefs at the imperial pce. After all, only the best ingredients had ess to the imperial pce. Even the water for brewing tea was freshly-collected dew. Li Chengru was disgusted at the luxury, which he saw as a waste of money and manpower. Young master, youve been looking at them for half a day, Fengsheng warned. Li Chengru cast a nce at him and said, Im thinking! As an old saying goes, the style is the man. Im pondering over what kind of person she is. Then what do you think of her? Fengsheng asked. Shes cunning! Li Chengru concluded. Fengsheng said nothing. Li Chengru had been observing Ye Xiaoxian that morning. She smiled at everyone, including those who haggled or criticized her food. She just smiled if off, whether or not they bought her food. No wonder the previous visitors couldnt coax any information out of her. But what should he do? In the days that followed, Li Chengru and Fengsheng remained where they were. They still stayed in the county and went to buy snacks every morning. Fengsheng once warned him carefully, Young master, we have paid to live and eat in this inn. Itll be our loss if we keep buying Ye Xiaoxians snacks. By the way, why are we supporting Yes business? Li Chengru red at Fengsheng and said, Idiot! I told you we couldnt act rashly. Its not toote to take action after I figure out what kind of person she is. Fengsheng asked tentatively, Young master, how much do you know of her? Fifty...seventy percent? Li Chengru sneered. Haste makes waste. Why are you as stupid as those others? When will you be smarter? Fengsheng didnt dare to utter his doubts anymore. He was distressed to recall what his master had endured. Away from the capital now, they could finally lead a real life. Ye Xiaoxian had been paying attention to Li Chengru and Fengsheng for several days. It was strange that she didnt see them except at breakfast time. At the same time, Li Hongmei also noticed the two men. After Xiao Baoshan had left, Li Hongmei became somewhat sensitive to everything about Ye Xiaoxian. Being a sensible sort of person, she knew how deeply her son had hurt Ye Xiaoxian. Previously, Xiao Baoshan had returned to his family after many years away. When he then stood in front of Li Hongmei, she hardly recognized him as her son at all. It was almost as if she had gained a new son. Li Hongmei had been watching Ye Xiaoxian grow up since she was little, so the time she had spent with this girl was much more than that with Xiao Baoshan. In her view, Ye Xiaoxian was more her daughter than she was her sons wife. She really hoped that Ye Xiaoxian could live a happy life. Now that Xiao Baoshan had left, she would understand if Ye Xiaoxian fell in love with someone else. She knew how hard it was to be a widow, so she didnt want Ye to suffer what she had suffered. Therefore, Li Hongmei had been keeping an eye on the men around Ye Xiaoxian. If she found someone suitable, perhaps she could make a good match for Ye. Ye Xiaoxian had suffered too much. Li Hongmeis eldest son had died before marrying Ye, and her second eldest son soon left again after he had juste back. Little Ye, why does that man stand there every day? Is he looking at you? Li Hongmei asked in a low voice while Ye Xiaoxian was selling her snacks. Ye Xiaoxian answered, Yes, I suppose so. I also wonder what he is thinking about. Is he here to inquire about Baoshan? But he just buys the snacks and never talks. Does he like you? Li Hongmei asked. How could that be? Were not from the same world, said Ye Xiaoxian. Hearing that, Li Hongmei sighed with relief. She handed some snacks to a customer as she said, Well, thats quite true. His skin is overly tender and look, hes cocking his chin like an arrogant peacock. Anyone else would be more reliable than him. Ye Xiaoxian was amused by her words. Mom, dont bother about it. Could you help me get the snacks for the customers? Chapter 175 - Do You Think Im Handsome?

Chapter 175: Do You Think Im Handsome?

Most students of the martial arts had excellent hearing and Fengsheng was one of them, so he overheard the conversation between Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian. Fengsheng sighed to himself. Young master, I told you your n wouldnt work. You not only pay for their snacks but are being mistaken for an admirer. The point is that Ye Xiaoxian isnt interested in you at all. Fengshengs face hardened when he bought the snacks. When Li Hongmei bagged the snacks up for him, she looked him up and down as if he were a rapist. This made him quite ufortable. After buying the snacks, he went back to Li Chengru looking unhappy and told him what the two women had said. Li Chengrus face was dark with rage. Did they really say that? Yes! Fengsheng was firmly on Li Chengrus side. How could these two ignorant women criticize such a devastatingly handsome man? Li Chengru couldnt wait to argue with Ye Xiaoxian and teach her how to have an eye for beauty. Who gave her the confidence to think that he liked her? But then, he changed his mind. This may be a useful misunderstanding. This way, they wont know my real aim. What an excellent opportunity! Hey on the bed after returning to the inn until a waiter delivered lunch for him. The types of dishes in this inn were so limited that Li Chengru was tired of them. He threw the carrot pieceszily into his mouth and soon put down his chopsticks. Fengshengs meal was the same as Li Chengrus, but he was not a fussy eater. Even if he got picky about the food, Li Chengru would be even more so. Young master, dont you like the dishes? I can buy some for you from outside, Fengsheng asked as he chewed the food. Li Chengru waved his hand and stared firmly at Fengsheng. Young master, why are you staring at me? Fengsheng asked. After a while, Li Chengru said, I have a bold idea. Although its somewhat immoral, I think itll work well. After all, no ones tried it before. Perhaps I can get the information I want. What is it? Fengsheng asked. Li Chengru came just for one thing, and that was to find Xiao Baoshans rtives and learn of his whereabouts from them. But actually, he had no idea how to do so. During all these past days, the only method he had figured out was to remain watchful. Now, he finally had a different n. Fengsheng cocked his ears to listen. Rather than exining his n directly, Li Chengru asked, Do you think Im handsome? Fengsheng studied him for quite a while. Li Chengru grew impatient. What are you doing? How many years have you been with me? Is this your first time seeing me? Fengsheng finally replied with a smile, You look gorgeous. Youre the most handsome man, not only in the capital but the entire world. Ive never met anyone else that is as good-looking as you. Im not ttering you. I have evidence The Empr...erm, your mother is also an attractive woman. You must have inherited her beauty, so you look perfect in every way. Involuntarily, Li Chengru brushed his imagined hair back from his forehead, though he had actually tied up his hair neatly. He asked, What kind ofdy do you think I can marry? Young master, if you want to marry, any girl in this world would scramble to be your wife. But why do you ask this? Fengsheng was confused. Only then did Li Chengru reveal his n. What if I want to court Ye Xiaoxian? Of course, I wont marry her. I just want to let her fall in love with me. During that time, she might then tell me where Xiao Baoshan is. What? Fengshengs mouth fell open. Do you mean that youre going to sacrifice your virginity? Do you n to sleep with her in the same bed? Bah! That wont solve anything! I told you that I just want her to love me and tell me her secrets. Fengsheng was still stunned. Your sacrifice would be too great! What sacrifice? Im sure Ill seed in the end. Li Chengru red at Fengsheng. If I dont sacrifice anything, Ill never get the information from her. General Qian sent people here, but they finally went back empty-handed. Are they stupid? If they dont have a good brain, how can they defend our country against overwhelming enemy troops? Do theyck money? Without money, how did they stay here for so long? I considered this for a whole morning and I came to a conclusion; they didnt figure out the right way to get the information. Fengsheng finally faced the fact that Li Chengru was determined to lure his prey with his beauty. This was the only method he came up with after a whole morning. Fengsheng looked more than worried. Young master, is that feasible? Isnt the risk too great? Shees from an obscure vige, although... Although what? Li Chengru asked. Fengsheng shook his head, swallowing his words. Since he bought Ye Xiaoxians snacks the first time, he hade into contact with her for many days. She talked and behaved like an ordinary person, but he felt that she was wiser than most people. He was sure that she wasnt a simple woman. He insisted, Young master, Im really worried about you. Dont persuade me. Ive made up my mind. Now we have to think about how to approach her and how to win her trust. You have read more books, so you must have more experience than me. Think carefully and give me aplete n. As could be expected, Fengsheng again didnt know what to say. He was now lost in deep thought, and the dishes did not seem so delicious anymore. Usually, Ye Xiaoxian only worked for a morning. After that, she would take a good rest. This day, the flour and other materials had now almost been used up, so she needed to go to the market and buy some more. Soon after she went out, she noticed Li Chengru not far from her. He was so handsome and always sent Fengsheng to buy her snacks, which gave her no chance to forget him. Usually, he just stood under the tree and stared at her in an unfriendly way. But to her surprise, he greeted her this time. Is he waiting for me? thought Ye Xiaoxian. Li Chengru was wearing a faint smile which was much more charming than that of many young stars. As was always said, appearance was power. Ye Xiaoxian hadnt met such a gorgeous man in a long time. For this simple reason, she didnt detest him, no matter what aim he had in approaching her. Mrs. Xiao, are you going shopping? Li Chengru asked. Ye Xiaoxian nodded and smiled brightly. He was stunned for a second. After observing Ye Xiaoxian for a few days, he could easily recognize her even if she veiled her face. But now, her smile presented her as a brand newdy. Her smile was quite attractive and she was in no way vulgar. Just as a dashing man would do, Li Chengru unfolded his fan and waved it gently in front of his chest. ording to Fengsheng,dies in novels always fell in love with a white-robed handsome man waving a fan. But Ye Xiaoxian just nodded before she went on past him to buy flour. Standing still, Li Chengru did not hasten to catch up with her. Fengsheng had told him that trying too hard would scare thedy. As Ye Xiaoxian was carrying 10 kilograms of flour and other ingredients back, she met Li Chengru on the road again. Chance encounter as it seemed to be, Ye Xiaoxian felt that Li Chengru had been waiting for her on purpose. Mrs. Xiao, youve bought so much. Do you need my help? Li Chengru folded his fan and tucked it into his clothes at the waist Fengsheng had advised him to do more to please thedy if he wanted to gain her affection. Li Chengru would carry the flour bag on his shoulder although he didnt want to nor he had ever done this before in his life. He could have let Fengsheng do it for him, but Fengsheng insisted that he should fight for her alone. If he didnt, Ye Xiaoxian might think that Fengsheng was the one who liked her. On such a bustling street, Ye Xiaoxian didnt dare to ask him for help, afraid to make herself the target ofmon gossip. Since Xiao Baoshan had disappeared, many people had been keeping a watch on her. There was no doubt that the widow was always the subject of gossip. No, declined Ye Xiaoxian. Im used to this. Theyre not heavy for me. As she walked away, Li Chengru followed her. Please let me help you. I always buy your snacks in the morning. Theyre very delicious. Ive been here for days just because I like your snacks, especially those lovely and tasty rabbits. Really? Ye Xiaoxian was perplexed. Would anyone stay in Qinghe county just for her snacks? But this man didnt seem like someone running a catering business. Was he a foodie? That seemed even less likely. Ye Xiaoxian looked somewhat adorable when she was hesitant. Li Chengru took over carrying the bag of flour immediately and said, Lets go. I can help you carry it home. Ye Xiaoxian was stunned by his speed. She thought that Li Chengru must have learned martial arts to a high level. He reminded her of Xiao Baoshan who could also grab something from her hands so easily. As such, she couldnt refuse Li Chengrus help anymore. If they scrambled to carry the flour on the street, there would be an even bigger misunderstanding. Therefore, she followed Li Chengru back to her home. Chapter 176 - I Knew Your Aim the First Time I Met You

Chapter 176: I Knew Your Aim the First Time I Met You

The flour seemed almost weightless for Li Chengru, but he was the capitals most handsome man and would not normally have done this. If people in the capital knew what he was doing, they would certainlyugh at him. Sess, however, always came at a price, and he would do anything if he felt it truly necessary. Soon, Li Chengru stopped in front of Ye Xiaoxians house. She took over carrying the flour and said, Thank you. My pleasure, he replied. Please feel free to ask me for help. Im staying at Jun Lai Lodge. Ye Xiaoxian smiled slightly at him. He smiled back. He couldnt help thanking Fengsheng in his mind. Fengshengs method works! Shes smiling at me! Fengsheng had told him that this was called sounding out in the novels. If Ye Xiaoxian didnt detest him or take him as a lecher, she might have a good impression of him. If she smiled, this meant that she totally trusted him. As such, he was able to finish his task early. Since that episode, he had been in a good mood. Of course, he was notcent. There was nothing for him to becent about. After all, he was such a dashing man for whom alldies would line up to marry, let alone a vige woman. But this marked the first step to his sess, so it was reasonable for him to feel rather pleased with himself. That day, he wasnt picky about the food he had disgusted and instead had a good appetite. He enjoyed his dinner while asking Fengsheng, What should I do next? Fengsheng replied in deadly earnest, Keep approaching her. In order to do this, you must buy her snacks by yourself from now on. Li Chengrus face fell. Do you mean I should be your servant and buy breakfast for you? No no, I dont mean that. I mean breakfast can bring you closer to each other. Recalling the melodramatic plots from the novels, he exined, Young master, what you must do is not only buy her snacks. There is more. For example, when you give her money, you can pretend to touch her hand by ident. But you cant do it brazenly, or you will be regarded as a lecher. Youd better brush her hand lightly for no more than a second, giving her heart just a flutter rather than a surge. Growing impatient over the long-winded speech, Li Chengru interrupted, Stop. Show me how to make her heart flutter. They then began practicing how to pass the money. After repeating the move umpteen times, Li Chengru finally got the hang of it. The next day. A light rain began to fall in the morning. Only a few customers braced the rain to buy Ye Xiaoxians snacks. Some of them were wearing straw raincoats and some were holding oiled-paper umbres. After handing some snacks to a customer, Ye Xiaoxian looked up to find a dashing white-robed man holding a yellow umbre in the drizzling rain. His perfect stature and breathtaking face resembled Eros. Her heart suddenly skipped a beat. Just then, his lips curved in a brief smile. ording to Fengshengs theory of love, if Ye Xiaoxian fixed her eyes on him, this meant she must have been fascinated by his angelic appearance. Good morning, what would you like today? Ye Xiaoxian smiled as she turned her attention back to her business. Since there was nobody around them, Li Chengru felt free to carry out his n. He said, Mrs. Xiao, my name is Li Chengru. I would feel it my honor if you would call me Chengru or Mr. Li. Ye Xiaoxian was more than confused. Why did Li Chengru tell her his name? He went on saying, Sorry to call you Mrs. Xiao all the time. Could you tell me your name? What would you like me to call you? Ye Xiaoxian didnt like being called Mrs. Xiao because Xiao Baoshan had, in a way, abandoned her. It always made her feel very awkward. So she said rather tly, Little Ye. Got it, Little Ye, echoed Li Chengru. Ye Xiaoxian asked, Mr. Li, what would you like to buy? Then, Li Chengru ordered some snacks that Fengsheng and he usually ate. Of course, he didnt forget to buy quite a few rabbits. She bagged the snacks up, calcted the price and said, 40 copper coins in total. Okay. Li Chengru took out a small ingot of silver and ced it on the table. Gentlemen usually did so in a courteous and considerable manner. However, when she gave change to him, he hooked his fingers slightly and brushed across her palm. Feeling his touch, Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help looking up at him. But he soon pulled his hand away and smiled at her. Little Ye, see you. Have a good day! It was as if nothing had happened. Thoughtfully, she watched his figure fading away in the rain. In the days followed, it became sunny again. As he had donest time, Li Chengru came to buy snacks and said good morning to her. But he didnt stay to chat because there was a long queue waiting to buy breakfast. When Ye Xiaoxian went to buy flour, Li Chengru showed up in the market again. He still helped her to carry the bag of flour to her home. But this time, he didnt leave right away. Instead, he pulled out a red pearl hairpin and handed it to her. Little Ye, this is for you. Ye Xiaoxian was surprised. The hairpin was delicate with a pearl and it was red, her favorite color. But why? asked Ye Xiaoxian curiously. I didnt buy it on purpose. Last night, I walked past a poor olddy who was selling hairpins. It seemed that she had sold nothing that day, so I bought this one from her. Its useless to me and I dont have many friends here. So I thought of you, Li Chengru exined casually. This was also taught to him by Fengsheng to prepare a small gift like a hairpin for thedy. But he had to pretend that the gift was not prepared specially for her, or she might feel too shy to ept it. Nody would decline a casual gift. Li Chengru held his posture, waiting for Ye Xiaoxian to take the pearl hairpin. But she didnt. He then became anxious. Did I do it wrong? Or is Fengshengs idea not reliable at all? After a while, Ye Xiaoxian finally looked up at him and said calmly, Mr. Li, youve alsoe for Xiao Baoshan, right? He was astonished. How, how do you know? I knew it from the first time I met you, but you didnt ask anything, so I just kept my mouth shut. Mr. Li, Im sorry, but I dont know where Xiao Baoshan is. No matter how many of youe here or who you are, I will still have no idea of his whereabouts. Besides, he has nothing to do with me anymore. Li Chengru was left speechless. So Ive been ying a monodrama like a fool all these days? Ye Xiaoxian continued, Mr. Li, you dont need toe here again. Although this is a small county with low prices, it may cost you a lot of money to stay here too long. If nothing else, youd better go back where you belong. Li Chengru was absolutely furious, immediately giving up all his feigned refinement. A dagger was suddenly pressed against her neck. Ugly woman, how dare you fool me! Tell me where Xiao Baoshan is, or Ill kill you! She sneered. It was you who cheated me although you failed. Thats not the point. Tell me where Xiao Baoshan is! The sharp edge was pushed closer. If he used just a little more strength, he would sh her neck. But she was exceptionally calm while giving him a brave smile. Her beautiful eyes were fixed on him as she said, I dont know where he is. Just kill me if you want. If killed, perhaps she could go back to modern times. Even if this really was the end of her life, she would ept it with poise. The money earned had been enough to support Li Hongmei and Xiao Baofeng for life. The cold de was still threatening at her neck, but it didnt get any closer. His hand began shaking. Kill her? He had never killed anybody, let alone a woman. He could always obtain anything he wanted by throwing a tantrum, but now he had failed in front of this woman. Shes so unyielding. No wonder those guys couldnt get any information from her. Do you think I wont dare to kill you? Li Chengru threatened. Smile fading, she didnt answer. Her eyes were on him, watery with tears. Is she waiting to die? He was afraid of something in her eyes. Shaking, the dagger seemed to try and slice her tender skin, but it was hindered by his hesitant hand. Just then, the door creaked open as Li Hongmei stepped out from inside. Scared by the dagger, she suddenly dropped to the ground. Mur-murderer! Help! Help! The dagger was immediately removed from Ye Xiaoxians neck. In the blink of an eye, Li Chengru disappeared out of sight. Only after a while did shee to her senses. With the white figure gone, everything returned to peace. She sighed with relief before helping Li Hongmei up. Mom, Im fine. Dont worry. Li Hongmei still felt limp on her feet. During these past days, she had seen strangers threatening Ye Xiaoxian with knives against her neck more than once. She had experienced the same nightmares, too. But this time, the dagger had scratched Ye Xiaoxians skin. Death had never been so close to her. Chapter 177 - Wedding Banquet I

Chapter 177: Wedding Banquet I

Little Ye, are you sure youre okay? Li Hongmei couldnt help her voice from quivering. Yes, Im sure. He just threatened me, he wasnt really trying to kill me. He also wanted to know where Baoshan is, just like those other people. What? Li Hongmei was dumbfounded by the shocking news. I didnt expect that gentleman had alsoe looking for Baoshan. After all, he buys our snacks every morning and always helps Little Ye. How could he have held off on asking about Baoshan for so long and conceal his aim until today? Its too dangerous to have such a man lurking around us. What on earth has Baoshan done? How has he made so many enemies? ... As soon as Li Chengru returned to the inn, he began smashing everything he could reach. Fengsheng couldnt stop him at all, so he stood aside, counting how muchpensation he would have to payter. Li Chengru didnt leave alone a single corner of the room. Fragments of tables, chairs and porcin soon littered the ground in a mess. The destruction didnt stop until he was exhausted and copsed on his bed. Fengsheng could tell that his master had either failed in his n or hit a snag. He had told him that this n wouldnt work. It would be better to threaten Ye Xiaoxian with a knife or kidnap someone she cared about, such as Li Hongmei. Wasnt there a boy in her family? If they kidnapped that boy as well, Ye Xiaoxian would definitely tell them where Xiao Baoshan was. Li Chengru didnt get up until the afternoon. His usual vitality was lost in his eyes. Fengsheng, she knows everything. She knew our aim from the very beginning, but she didnt say anything. She has been watching us acting this whole time. She didnt tell me anything, even when I put a dagger to her neck. The waiter is right she yields neither to persuasion nor to coercion. Fengsheng couldnt believe his ears. Young master must feel so humiliated after ying this monodrama for so long, he thought. Li Chengru was furious not only because he had lost face. but he had also failed to get the information he wanted. Fengsheng sighed sympathetically. How heavy this blow was to his masters self-esteem! Young master, your n is excellent. You failed only because that woman is so cunning. Fengshengforted him. Li Chengru went back to lying on his bed. Fengsheng, I wont go back to the capital. I will try every way there is to find out where Xiao Baoshan is from that woman. ... Soon, Liu Qianqians wedding day was just around the corner. Jia Zhenbo and her had nned to get marriedst month, but a fortune-teller suggested postponing their wedding to avoid some destined conflicts in their lives. A famousdy from a big family like Liu Qianqian always deserved a big wedding banquet. It was said that there would be 30 tables set at the feast. Usually, in such a big family, it was its cooks who prepared the feast. However, Squire Liu and Liu Qianqian wished their guests to enjoy the best feast at her wedding. When Ye Xiaoxian was invited to be the chef for the banquet, she agreed without hesitation. Since Liu Qianqian would be the bride, her family just needed to hold a single banquet. Ye Xiaoxian went there a day in advance to prepare for the feast. She some salting and frying, as well as made various delicious sauces, getting everything ready for the next days cooking. Only when it became dark did Ye Xiaoxian finish her work. Just then, a maid came up to her saying that Liu Qianqian wanted a chat, so Ye Xiaoxian headed for her bedroom. Liu Qianqian and Jia Zhenbo had been passionately in lovetely. They wrote letters to each other every day and sometimes went out for some tea, but marriage would be such a big event in her life that she felt very nervous. She had so much to worry about, including how to get along with her future mother-inw and how to look after the house. More importantly, she was afraid that Jia Zhenbo might take a concubine when he grew tired of her. Im sure he wont. You have to trust him and yourself. Ye Xiaoxian reassured her repeatedly. A woman in this era was required to follow whatever her husband ordered. But Jia Zhenbo was in no way a male chauvinist. No one could be better than him as a husband for Liu Qianqian. Besides, she was certainly old enough to get married now, otherwise she would be gossiped about by other people. Ye Xiaoxian told her to store her dowries well, especially her title deeds. All the money earned from these should be considered her private savings. Only a powerful woman would not be looked down upon by others. After chatting all night, they finally fell asleep together. The following morning, the female matchmaker came to help Liu Qianqian with her make-up and dressing. Ye Xiaoxian went to the kitchen in the backyard and began cooking for the banquet. When she guided the other cooks on how to cut up vegetables, she looked up to see a familiar figure in the front courtyard. Li Chengru? Why is he here? Has Squire Liu invited him over? When did he make the acquaintance of Squire Liu? She hadnt seen him for days, thinking that he might have left Qinghe county. So it was a surprise for her to meet him here. Why did he stay? Does he still want to find out where Xiao Baoshan is? But he soon disappeared from view, so she turned her attention back to her current work. ... Li Chengru had brought a special and precious gift, a colorful parrot. The second the cloth was removed from covering the cage, the parrot faced Squire Liu and chirped, May your lovest forever! Squire Liu and the guests all burst intoughter. Then, the parrot added, May you live a long life. Squire Liusughter grew even louder. Squire Liu liked to take a walk with his several precious birds in his spare time. Undoubtedly, Li Chengrus gift matched up to his expectations. Squire Liu took the gift and began introducing Li Chengru to the other guests. This young brother is my new friend. I was so impressed by his skills in training birds, so I soon made friends with him. A guest asked, So this young brother knows birdnguage? Sure, hahaha! Squire Liu liked and admired Li Chengru very much. Li Chengru wasnt used to their strange way of talking, but he didnt show his dissatisfaction. After all, if he wanted to stay here long, hed better make acquaintances with some people. After Squire Liu went away to greet other guests, Li Chengru and Fengsheng sat down at a table. Fengsheng whispered, I learned that Little Ye is the chef at this banquet. Li Chengru tutted dismissively and then thought to himself with disdain, Does nobody know how to cook here? How can a woman prepare a banquet? Does she know how to make any dishes apart from snacks? Chapter 178 - Wedding Banquet II

Chapter 178: Wedding Banquet II

It grew much noisier as more guests joined the banquet. The people here all strained their necks while talking, their voices resonating through the yard. Li Chengru couldnt help frowning at their vulgarity. An hourter, the banquet finally began. The first dish was fried pork, the mouth-watering look of which gave all the guests a good appetite. Growing up in a big city, Li Chengru had tasted all kinds of delicacies, including, of course, fried pork. Few people could make fried pork that was truly delicious. The pork most people made was either too fat or too lean or had skin which was not crisp enough for gourmets to enjoy. In any case, Li Chengru didnt like fried pork. Usually, he would eat only pork skin and the lean part while throwing away the fat. He was toozy to have a taste, but Fengsheng couldnt wait to throw a piece of pork into his mouth. As soon as he took a bite of it, he eximed with excitement, Young master, the pork is so delicious. Really! Try some. This is the best pork Ive ever eaten! Dont exaggerate, said Li Chengru rolling his eyes. Yes, weve been away from the capital for days, but this is just a piece of pork. But as well as Fengsheng, all the other guests were saying how delicious it was with great satisfaction. In the blink of an eye, the fried pork had been half eaten. Fengsheng hurried to take a piece for Li Chengru before it was toote. Li Chengru might have got angry on other asions. He had been annoyed having meals with many strangers who gulped rudely, showing no courtesy at all. However, since this had been made by Ye Xiaoxian, he dubiously took a bite of it. Just then, he was totally amazed by the taste. The pork skin was truly crisp with excellent sourness. The fat was not greasy and the lean was not chewy, melting on his tongue immediately. Served with with some plums, it was yummy and appetizing. Li Chengru soon finished the pork in his bowl. When he wanted to eat another piece, the te in front of him was already empty. The dish that followed was poached chicken with ginger sauce. Before Fengsheng could take a slice for him, Li Chengru had snatched the meatiest one at once. Dipped with soy source and chopped garlic, the chicken smelled even more alluring. The chicken skin was crisp and the meat tender, giving his taste buds a perfect experience. Every time a dish was served, Li Chengru was the first to have a taste. All the people sitting around him were surprised by his behavior. Distinguished as he looked, he scrambled for the dishes, regardless of his identity. Li Chengru was quite content after finishing his meal. Since he had left the capital, this was the first time he had eaten and drunk all he could. His only regret was that he could only enjoy a little from each dish because he had too manypetitors. What if that woman cooked only for him! Oh no, that woman will not cook for me. My n didnt work at all. ... Schr Wong also went to the banquet with Qin Qingqing who seemed pregnant with a swollen belly. While she went to join other female guests, he strolled to the kitchen. It was obvious that he hade here for Ye Xiaoxian. He had changed a lot since they metst time, his one-time graceful pureness missing from his face. With a beard, he was fatter with a slightly rounder belly. In other words, he had grown stout. Little Ye, he was not so confident as he greeted her. She smiled and replied, Mr. Wong, why are you here? Its so smoky. Youd better go and join the banquet. I see. Ill soon leave. He seemed to have something to talk about with her. When she took a short rest, he asked, Little Ye, I heard that Baofeng will participate in the county-level examination. Is it true? Yes. How do you know? she asked. Baofengs headmaster told me when I visited him several days ago, he replied. His chubby face squeezed up as he smiled, which made him appear as vulgar as those married men who were waited on hand and foot. What about you? It seems that the provincial-level examination will follow the county-level one. Will you take it? she asked. His only reply was an embarrassed smile. He felt that perhaps this was the reason why he didnt look young anymore. His figure gave away everything. He had given up learning and instead epted the life arranged by his family. If nothing else, he would live on his family businesses with his wives and children until he died. He said, Baofeng is the countys hope now, not me. I hope he can seed, she said. Since they hadnt met for a long time, both of them were embarrassed when they couldnt findmon topics. After he went back to the banquet, Ye Xiaoxian soon finished her work, but she didnt want to join the feast. Therefore, she had her meal with the cooks in the kitchen. When the bridegroom arrived with a sedan chair at the auspicious time, Ye Xiaoxian hurried out to have a look. Dressed in red with a red kerchief, Liu Qianqian was escorted out of her room by the matchmaker. The kerchief veiled her expression, but after chatting for a whole night, Ye Xiaoxian knew she was beaming was happiness. Qianqian, may you be truly happy with him. ... When she left the banquet, she met Li Chengru again. But this was no coincidence, because she was at the back door. He must have been waiting here for her on purpose. Now that his n had failed, Li Chengru didnt need to feign politeness anymore. He stared at her coldly as he had done in their first meeting. She cast an indifferent look at him and walked past him without saying a word. But he out-paced her and stopped in front of her. Mr. Li, I told you I dont know where Xiao Baoshan is. Do you still think Im telling a lie? He once promised that he would be with me forever, but he still went back on his word. If you find him, please help me ask him why hes been so cruel to me? If he cant give an exnation, help me kill him. Dont hesitate and dont be merciful, okay? Her tone was ice cold. Li Chengru had nned to threaten her, but now he couldnt find the right words even to begin. He knew the one she cared about most now was Xiao Baofeng. The guests had told him that this boy was the hope for the entire county, the most promising one to earn a schrly honor. Chapter 179 - Letter of Divorce I

Chapter 179: Letter of Divorce I

If you dont tell me, I will kidnap Xiao Baoshans mother and brother. I know his brother is going to take the exam. Do you want to ruin his career just because of your selfishness? Li Chengru said threateningly. Ye Xiaoxian burst outughing. She just smiled at first, but then she giggled. Why are youughing? he was confused. She raised her brows as she said, You want to threaten me with them? Yes! She pulled back her smile and looked him up and down. Then, she walked away without a word. He stopped her again. Do you understand what Im saying? I will imprison them! Ye Xiaoxian paused for a while before she turned to him. Then do it! Do it? How could she say that so calmly? Isnt there anyone who can make her yield in this county? Is she really afraid of nothing? Im afraid that she isnt. He knew it was always hard for a woman to get along well with her mother-inw. Although Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei seemed nice to each other, they might quarrel in private. Since Xiao Baoshan had left, their conflicts might have been intensified. As for Xiao Baofeng, he was just Xiao Baoshans younger brother. Now that Ye Xiaoxian didnt love Xiao Baoshan anymore, she wouldnt care about his brother. Li Chengru simply stood there in astonishment. Not far away, the horns and drums were ying a loud and jubnt tune, contrasting sharply with his depression. When he was about to vent his frustration, Ye Xiaoxian suddenly stopped in her tracks. Then, she walked up to him. Is she finally afraid? Will she finallypromise? Li Chengru thought these things as he stared at her, feeling perplexed. But she merely said in a low voice, Come with me. I have something to show you. Youll give up after seeing it. What? he asked. Youll see. After she had said this, she at once turned around and walked away. Fine. Let me see what trick you want to y! He decided to go with her. Fengsheng pulled Li Chengrus sleeve and warned, Young master, this might be a trap. After days of observation, he didnt believe that Ye Xiaoxian was a pure-minded woman. But Li Chengru didnt care much about that. He said disdainfully, Well see whether this is a trap or not. Even if she hires killers, we can handle them easily. ... Soon, Li Chengru and Fengsheng arrived at Ye Xiaoxians house and were kept waiting outside. Ye Xiaoxian went in alone. After a while, she came out with a piece of paper. There was neither an ambush nor a trap awaiting them. She handed the paper to Li Chengru and said, Have a look at this. He gave her a confused look before he unfolded the paper, on which he saw DIVORCE in the title. Reading down, Li Chengru was surprised at the exceptionally heartless words used. In the letter, Xiao Baoshan said she was unscrupulous, surly, always pushed herself forward unbingly, and her being imprisoned made his family notorious. All these factors forced him to divorce her. Li Chengru read the letter again and again until he finally believed what he saw. No wonder Ye Xiaoxian gnashed her teeth when mentioning Xiao Baoshans name. Any woman would feel heartbroken if receiving such a letter from her beloved husband. Ye Xiaoxian took the letter back and said, Now you know, Xiao Baoshan has nothing to do with me anymore. I just take care of his family for him. I dont care what you do to them. To be honest, Id rather you killed both of them. This way, I could marry again and have a fresh start. After saying this, she went back into the house and shut the door. Li Chengru stood outside the house, staring nkly at the closed door. Does this mean that the trail leading to Xiao Baoshan has gone cold? ... After Ye Xiaoxian locked herself in her room, she unfolded the letter and scanned over it several times. The first time she saw the letter, she didnt believe that Xiao Baoshan would write something like this to her. As more and more strangers came to find him, she convinced herself that their divorce was a kind of expedient he had worked out to protect her. However, as the days went by, he still didnt return. Her heart gradually filled with grief. She knew neither where he was nor what he had gone through in the past. Since he had offended so many people, why did he thene back here? He must have known what trouble he would cause for his family. But he just left, leaving her an awful mess. How many times had she been threatened, including knives put to her throat? If he came back, she would face the trouble with him, however dangerous it might be. Why had he left alone? As long as they were together, she would rather live a life of vagrancy. She felt humiliated every time she read the letter. ... Life had be gray, dull and depressing. But sometimes there was a different color. For example, Xiao Baofeng had be a Confucian apprentice. Only five people passed this examination in the county and Xiao Baofeng was the youngest. Hearing this news, all his teachers were wild with joy. His headmaster rewarded him with lots of books, stationery and some materials about the previous provincial-level tests for him to learn in advance. This was equal to a mountain of workbooks and homework that a modern teacher might give to the best student in the ss. However, a good learner was always ready to ept them. Ye Xiaoxian, who was happy hearing this news, decided to invite other rtives to have a big meal together. Since Xiao Baoshan had left, the Xiao family hadnt had any chance to gather together. The rtives in the vige didnt know how tofort Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian, afraid of saying something wrong which might upset them. But Wong Mudan and Chen Ju had discussed Xiao Baoshan a lot. Wong Mudan said, One cant afford to obtain a great fortune, or he will provoke the gods. s! Chen Ju said, I envied Li Hongmei before, but now I dont. I would rather everyone were safe in this family even if we are poor. They had been jealous of Li Hongmei for her better life. But now, they felt she was no better than them. However, Wong Mudan still gave Xiao Baocheng a tough knock on his head. What good prospects Baofeng has! But look at you you can just recite several childrens poems after years of schooling! Chapter 180 - Letter of Divorce II

Chapter 180: Letter of Divorce II

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio At this moment, Old Mr Xiao and all the other family members were gathering in Ye Xiaoxians house. As usual, Old Mr Xiao scolded Li Hongmei at once. I told you that you should stay in our vige and do farming, but you didnt listen to me. You came here and ran a restaurant, causing a lot of trouble. If you had done what I said, Baoshan wouldnt have left us. Li Hongmei replied, Its not our fault! Do you think Im not sad about his leaving? You women are so short-sighted. Dont think about money every day. If you would just stay in the vige, nothing bad would happen. Li Hongmei felt wronged by his loud rebuke, but she didnt want to argue with him. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju didnt speak for her, because what the old man had said was just what they wanted to say. Although they sympathized with her, they hadnt forgiven her for living a better life before. Fortunately, Xiao Baofeng interrupted in time to save his mother from embarrassment. He asked his grandfather whether he was healthy and whether he slept and ate well. Old Mr Xiao soon turned his attention to his grandson. Although Baoshan has gone, we still have you, my clever boy. Are you going to take the provincial-level examination? When you be a cultivated talent, you can then be a teacher in our vige. Then, you can earn a lot of money and write couplets for our vigers at Spring Festival. Wont that be a decent job? Xiao Tieshu said, Dad, Baofeng will take the national examination after bing a cultivated talent. The old mans face suddenly fell. National examination? There will only one winner! Dont try to cross a single-nk bridge with so many people, or you will find yourself drowning in the river. Li Hongmei was angry at his words. How could he curse his grandson? Why cant he say something good? But Xiao Baofeng didnt fuss about his grandfathers words. He only trusted what Ye Xiaoxian had suggested about his career. While Ye Xiaoxian was busy cooking in the kitchen, she heard everything from outside. But she didnt bother to join the conversation and just focused on her own business. Indeed, these rtives were loose-lipped and easily jealous, making conflicts unavoidable in this family. But after experiencing so much together, they had be kinder and more caring. There was no need to quarrel with them now. After cooking the supper, Ye Xiaoxian said with enthusiasm, Dinners ready! Grandpa, uncles, please sit down first. Kids, help your Sister Li serve the dishes. Baofeng, could you help me set the table? The dinner soon began with the adults around one table and the children around another. Since Xiao Baofeng was the special guest at this feast, he also joined the adults. On the table were a variety of dishes, including meat, fish and vegetables. It was just like a small banquet. The delicious dishes made all their mouths water. Following the lead of Old Mr Xiao, they picked up their chopsticks and began eating. Little Ye, the dishes you made taste so excellent, said Xiao Tieshu. Its such a pity that the restaurant was closed, or the business might have be even better, Xiao Tongshu echoed. However, Wong Mudan and Chen Ju did not agree with them. Wong Mudan said, Weve failed in this business. How can we make the same mistake again? Things were miserable when Baoshan was at home. Now hes gone; no one can protect our sister and Little Ye anymore. Its safer to keep running this snack stall, which wont cause jealousy. Trouble will find you once youre envied. Chen Ju nodded in agreement. After all, when Li Hongmei was earning so much by running the restaurant, they had racked their brains to shirk their responsibility to take care of Old Mr Xiao. Li Hongmei said, I support Little Ye no matter what she wants to do. Shes much cleverer than me. Were depending on her now. Wong Mudan had a look at Ye Xiaoxian who was enjoying her meal intently. Her lips parted slightly, but she didnt say anything. After dinner, the men sat in the yard leisurely while Wong Mudan, Chen Ju and Li Hongmei washed the dishes beside the well. Ye Xiaoxian went to y with the two youngest girls. She wanted to teach them how to it their hair, but lice were so rampant in their long-unwashed hair that she didnt dare to touch it. Fortunately, there was warm water in the kitchen. So she asked the girls to get the water out and helped them to wash their hair. People in the old days usually used honey locust fruits to wash hair, but their effects were only so-so. Therefore, Ye Xiaoxian added some spices to upgrade the natural shampoo. Just then, Wong Mudan asked Li Hongmei in a low voice, Sister, is Baoshan really noting back? Li Hongmei heaved a deep sigh. I dont know either. Hes written a letter of divorce. Chen Ju said, In my view, Baoshan didnt want to marry Little Ye in the first ce. I remember how reluctant he was when you asked him to consummate with her. If you hadnt used the swine drugs, they wouldnt have be a couple. Li Hongmei sighed and said, Thats quite true. Wong Mudan asked, What is Little Ye thinking about? Does she want to wait for Baoshan all her life? I mean, he has divorced her. In this era, if a man divorced a woman, the woman would be regarded as abandoned. If a man broke up peacefully with a woman, the woman would then be thought of as widowed. Anyway, it was an unalterable fact that Xiao Baoshan had abandoned Ye Xiaoxian. He hadnt spared a thought for her. Li Hongmei sighed again. Wong Mudan kept asking, Will Little Ye marry another man? If so, what will you and Baofeng live on? Chen Ju listened to their conversation carefully. She had discussed this question with Wong Mudan at home. Wong Mudan agreed to let Ye Xiaoxian remarry, but the idea was that she must keep taking care of Li Hongmei and Xiao Baofeng. Li Hongmei said, Shes done so much for this family; I cant keep her with me all the time. If she remarries, I hope she can live a better life. But she has married once and some people even consider her as a jinx to her husband. Im afraid no good families will ept her. Id rather her live freely than be bullied by other people. Wong Mudan said, I agree. But if she marries again, dont let her go too far. You have to rely on her now. Although she cares about you now, she will be busy looking after her new family by then. Although Li Hongmei knew Wong Mudan was considering her, she couldnt agree. Such a thought was too selfish. But she didnt bother to argue because she knew the effort would be wasted. Just let it be, she thought. While the three women were talking about Xiao Baoshan, some people were also discussing the same topic in the imperial pce, hundreds of thousands of miles away. However, joining the discussion were only those ministers. The emperor had been so weighed down with age that he could barely hold himself in his throne. Almost deaf, he could merely catch some snippets of the conversation. He heard that Xiao Baoshan is still alive and what happened to him might be a conspiracy. Chapter 181 - Xiao Baoshan Appears Chapter 181: Xiao Baoshan Appears Li Chengkun, the third prince, exchanged a secret look with the state preceptor when the discussion was over. After they had parted, they met again in a secluded pce in the suburbs. Li Chengkun lookedposed and deep in his 40s. No smile or frown on his face could reveal a hint of his thoughts. The state preceptor kept his eyeballs rolling as if his mind was crammed full of countless tales of intrigue. Li Chengkun poured the tea into two cups and handed one to the state preceptor. Where do you think Xiao Baoshan might be? The state preceptor replied, He might be hiding in mountains or he could have slipped back here, waiting for others to vindicate him. Li Chengkun said, Please organize more people in the capital. Kill him if he shows up. The state preceptor smiled and said, Dont worry. Everything is in ce. Li Chengkun asked, Why dont we kill Xiao Baoshans family? If we kill them, Im afraid well be suspected. Now people all think that Xiao Baoshan is fleeing to avoid punishment, and this is exactly what we want. Ive sent my people to investigate his family. Its been discovered that he doesnt have much affection for his family. He did not want to marry his current wife, who was once his departed brothers wife. Hearing that, Li Chengkun felt somewhat relieved. Tentatively, the state preceptor asked, Your Highness, when shall we begin our n? Li Chengkun remained silent, showing neither objection nor approval to the state preceptor. The state preceptor ventured, Your Highness, we cant dy any longer. His Majesty is now seriously ill, but he hasnt decided who should be the crown prince yet. If we dont take the initiative, we will find it difficult to excel in the fiercepetitionter. After all, weve made full preparation to achieve our aim. Li Chengkun took a sip of his tea. After a while, he finally nodded in approval. Time to do it. ... Baoning city, the northwest of Daqi fief. This was a remote, undeveloped ce, the fief for Li Chengyi, the sixth prince. Most inhabitants here were aborigines who looked unhealthy and dejected because of a scarcity of materials. Li Chengyi was exiled here for some misconduct, though few people knew what it was. But sinceing here, he had done much to improve peoples living standards. He led the locals in cultivating thend and introduced many nts and vegetables. As a result, people lived a much better life here. Rather than closing the borders, Li Chengyi encouraged the locals to go out while attracting the businessmen in. With moremodity exchanges, the ce could gradually prosper. One day, a stranger wearing a loose robe and a bamboo hat stepped into the fief. His face half covered, he looked like a wanderer who had been roving for days. After entering the fief, he soon disappeared among the crowd. ... When Li Chengyi came back after a tour of inspection, he was scared by an arrow which was shot into his carriage. Calming himself down, he found a letter pinned on the arrow. It was not an attempted murder. After a second, he took the arrow and the letter down. Then, he was stunned by the name on the envelope. Its him! ... At dusk. The guard in the pce was much weaker than usual for some reason. Instead of going to sleep early, Li Chengyi sent away his servants and sat alone in front of a desk. When it waste at night, a figure leaped in from outside the window andnded steadily in front of Li Chengyi. Respectfully, he cupped his hands at the sixth prince. Im Xiao Baoshan. Your Highness, thank you for meeting me. Li Chengyi was lean and in his 30s. He was sitting in an upright position. Judging by his appearance, he was an honest and righteous man. He red at Xiao Baoshan and said, Xiao Baoshan, you betrayed our country. How dare youe to meet me aftermitting such a heinous crime! Arent you afraid that I will arrest you? Xiao Baoshan looked firmly at Li Chengyi and said, If you really consider me a betrayer, you wouldnt have let me in or be meeting me alone. I let you in only because you once saved my life! No. You let me in because you know who I am and who the fourth prince is. Your Highness, I was framed. Li Chengyi asked, Tens of thousands of people were sacrificed at that time. Why did you survive? When I fainted from being heavily wounded, my people protected me at the cost of their lives. After I regained consciousness, I found all myrades lying dead across the bloody battlefield. I wanted to die with them, but I thought of my mother and brother. So I decided to visit them before killing myself and didnt report that I was alive. Since the fourth prince died, Ive been already a lifeless man. Li Chengyi asked, Well now, since you nned to kill yourself, why are you still alive? Xiao Baoshan replied, When I went home, I found my mother was living a poor life, so I wanted to fulfill my duty as a son before I left. But during that period, my mother drugged me and forced me to marry a girl. I fell in love with that girl and was given hope for life again. Once, in order to save my wife, I exposed my identity, but I didnt expect what awaited me was such a nder. Who ndered you? Li Chengyi questioned. ording to my investigation, it was the state preceptor, said Xiao Baoshan. Li Chengyi fell into silence. He was exiled to Baoning city just because of the state preceptors smear. Therefore, he was not surprised at the result. Why did he do this? he asked. Xiao Baoshan said, The way we were defeated was quite strange, so I suspect that theres a traitor among us and he may be the state preceptor. The fourth prince had the best forces and was supported by most ministers. If he and his forces died, the state preceptor and the one he supported would be the biggest beneficiaries. Who does he support? Li Chengyi asked. After staring at the man briefly, Xiao Baoshan finally said, I suppose its the third prince. Li Chengyi was astonished. ... Qinghe county. When Ye Xiaoxian had sold out of the snacks, Fengsheng rushed over to her. Mrs. Ye! Embarrassment written on his face, he seemed to have a favor to ask of her. Noticing his awkwardness, she broke the ice, What? Hesitating for a while, he finally said, Mrs. Ye, my young master is seriously ill. Ive sent many doctors over, but hes still in aa. Could you please help him? Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help smiling and said, Im not even a doctor. Whye to me for help? He looked very anxious. I dont know. Youre always so capable. Maybe you know some good doctors? She shook her head softly. Im just an ordinary woman. Oh yes, doesnt your master know Squire Liu? He knows many more people than me. Perhaps he can help. He gave her a wry smile. They just barely knew each other but were not real friends. Feeling that she was not helping, Fengsheng didnt insist anymore. As you cant help us, I think I should leave now. Sorry to bother you. Ye Xiaoxian felt a surge ofpassion. Although Li Chengru wasnt her friend, she didnt have the heart to leave him in suffering. Fengsheng! She stopped him. All right, I can go with you. But Im not sure whether I can help him or not. Let me check his condition first. Fengsheng suddenly beamed with joy. During these days, he had asked numerous doctors for help, but none of them could bring his young master back to health. Now, Ye Xiaoxian became hisst hope. If she couldnt offer any help, he might have to watch his master die in this strangend. ... Li Chengru was still living in the inn. It would be better to rent a house if he wanted to stay long in this county. But it didnt seem a problem for this rich man. As long as he could pay, the waiters would provide perfect services for him. Gravely ill, Li Chengruy motionless on his bed. Standing a meter away from him, Ye Xiaoxian could feel the heat from his body. She covered her nose and mouth before approaching him, in case the disease was infectious. His forehead was awfully burning. She turned to Fengsheng and asked, How long has the fever been? Three days. Which doctor has he met? What medicine has he taken? He replied, All the doctors in the county. They diagnosed it as typhoid and also prescribed some medicinal herbs. But my master isnt getting any better. Ye Xiaoxian didnt know much about traditional Chinese medicine. She only knew that she must do something to reduce the fever first. Since there were no anti-inmmatory drugs in this era, she had to try the physical way. She said, Dont bundle him up. Cool him down first and let a waiter get some warm water. He needs a warm bath. Ill help you find a doctor now. He was confused. Take a warm bath? No need to put anything else in the water? No. Take a bath for a quarter of an hour. Dont dress him too much or cover him with a thick quilt. Just let him wear something light and simple. She remembered when she was small and caught a fever, she would have a cold shower and had an antipyretic patch on her forehead. If the fever was too serious, she would take some febrifuges, which would be impossible in ancient times. Then, Ye Xiaoxian went back to ask Li Hongmei for help. Doctors indeed knew how to cure diseases, but some folk remedies were also useful. When Xiao Baofeng once had a high fever, Li Hongmei used some method to cure him immediately. ... What? You want to save him? Li Hongmei was rather surprised. Little Ye, dont you remember he pressed a knife against your neck? Chapter 182 - Baoshans Past

Chapter 182: Baoshans Past

Yes, I remember, Ye Xiaoxian replied. Then why try to save him? What if he hurts you after he recovers? Li Hongmei would rather let Li Chengru die of disease or poison him when he was weak. Ye Xiaoxian smiled and said, Mom, hes just a paper tiger, not really daring to kill people. He just threatened me with the knife that time. Do you remember what the senior monk told us when we went to the templest time? He said we should do more good deeds. This is our chance now. After all, its better to save one life than to build a seven-story pagoda, isnt it? Well...Oh dear! Li Hongmei heaved a sigh. Im afraid he will harm you again. Mom, dont worry. Well be safe. Ill protect this family. said Ye Xiaoxian. Li Hongmei knew a doctor who had cured various diseases as he wandered from vige to vige. Perhaps he could save Li Chengru. But she didnt know where to find him. It would be a matter of luck. ... When Li Hongmei went out to find the doctor, Ye Xiaoxian headed for the inn to see whether Li Chengru had got any better. After taking a warm bath, Li Chengru had cooled down slightly. Just as Ye Xiaoxian said, Fengsheng helped his master into a light undershirt and thin pants. Ye Xiaoxian could vaguely see his bulging muscles through the close-fitting clothes. She hadnt expected that a fair-skinned man would have such a robust body, though she only treated him as a patient now. She asked Fengsheng to get some cold water from the well, soak a towel, and ce it on Li Chengrus forehead. When the towel turned warm, he should change it for another one immediately. But Fengsheng wasnt as careful as a woman. After all, even the towel that he folded was a mess. Seeing this, she could only do it by herself. In the two hours that followed, she changed the towels again and again until Li Chengrus temperature decreased a bit. During this period, he opened his eyes several times. Every time he woke up, he would murmur with his lips and soon give up. It seemed that he didnt even have the strength to speak. Another two hourster, Li Hongmei came with the doctor. She had found him in another vige thanks to a constables guidance. What good luck! The doctor lifted Li Chengrus eyelids and felt his unstable pulse which showed that the fever was serious. He said if Ye Xiaoxian hadnt cooled the patient down in time, things would be even worse. He prescribed two packs of medicinal herbs and asked Fengsheng to brew one instantly. After sending the doctor away, Ye Xiaoxian decided to stay and take care of Li Chengru. Worried that Ye Xiaoxian would get harmed here, Li Hongmei insisted on staying with her. After the medicine was prepared, Fengsheng found it hard to feed his master alone. Li Chengru was lying on the bed with his mouth shut. If Fengsheng lifted his masters upper body, he wouldnt have free hands to feed the medicine. If not, the medicinal liquid would just flow out of his mouth. Seeing that, Ye Xiaoxian offered to feed the medicine as Fengsheng supported Li Chengrus upper body. At the same time, Li Hongmei tried to help the patient open his mouth After feeding him the medicine, the three of them were more than tired. Fengsheng wiped away his sweat afterying Li Chengru down. Now, they only needed to wait for Li Chengru to wake up. While Fengsheng was looking after his master on the bed, Ye Xiaoxian sat down on a stool and asked, Fengsheng, Ive been curious about one thing. What has Xiao Baoshan done? Why do so many people want to catch him? Fengsheng looked very surprised. You do not know? Li Hongmei said angrily, Of course not, or why would we ask you? Ye Xiaoxian exined calmly, Baoshan hadnt been home for years before he came back. Its said that he once fought on the battlefield. We dont know much about his past. After we got married, I opened a restaurant and he worked at a dock. Since he suddenly disappeared, many people have beening here iming they want to take revenge on him. This is all we know. Could you tell us more? Fengsheng took a look at Li Chengru and then Ye Xiaoxian. Suddenly, he burst out crying. Young, young master is very poor. Among his several brothers, he has the least love from his parents. But he doesnt care about that or...well, the family property. Anyway, his fourth brother treated him like a father and brother, teaching him riding, archery and martial arts. This elder brother gave my master great happiness until his death. Until he was murdered by Xiao Baoshan. Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian looked at Fengsheng with astonishment. Li Hongmei asked, How? Fengsheng said, Its true that Xiao Baoshan used to fight in battles, but do you know that he was once a famous general? When there was serious turmoil in the West, he led the troops to fight against the enemy. The war ended in total failure. All of our soldiers were sacrificed in that war, but he survived. People say that we failed so badly because Xiao Baoshan betrayed our country and divulged military secrets. Li Hongmei was stunned, as was Ye Xiaoxian. Li Hongmei was surprised that her son had once been a general. A famous one too! My ungrateful boy, why didnt you let me enjoy a good life with you at that time? Why did youe back only when you had failed, getting us into trouble? Ye Xiaoxian could feel that Xiao Baoshan wasnt an ordinary person, but she hadnt expected that he had been a great general. So she had not only traveled through time but also married a general! Albeit a down-and-out one. It took her quite a while to sort things out. She said, Somethings wrong. What has he gained after betraying his country? No honor at all. He went back to his hometown and married a vige girl. He worked in the government office with a monthly sry of one silver tael at first. Then, he had a job at the dock where he got sun-burnt, making his skin as dark as coal. If I were him, I would have held onto the prestigious position of a general. But Fengsheng wasnt persuaded. Of course he should hide at first. When hes forgotten by everyone, he can then slip away to the country of Daqing where he can enjoy great honor and wealth. What an irresistible temptation! Ye Xiaoxian asked, Did you say only he survived on the battlefield? Now that it was near Daqing, why didnt he cross the border directly? Why did hee back here to live a hard life with us? He said, Weve also thought about these questions. He might have thought that the time was not right for him. Didnt he work in the government office? He might be waiting for Daqing to assign him a mission and he would betray our country again. Irritated by his words, Li Hongmei thumped the table and shouted, Nonsense! There was a deafening silence. They looked at Li Hongmei quietly. Li Hongmei said barely convincingly, I know my son isnt a traitor. He must have been framed. Fengsheng asked, Then why didnt he return to the capital and report the truth at once? Why is he hiding away from us now? Stupid! Of course he should escape if youre trying to kill him. Fengsheng was dumbfounded by her logic. Ye Xiaoxian was also lost in thought. Xiao Baoshan, that nearly six foot three-tall man, usually showed his soft side, although he had a deep and serious face. Was he really a traitor? As a long history witnessed, the wind of strife and conspiracy never ceased in the imperial court. Was Xiao Baoshan the one brewing the storm or a pawn used? ... Li Chengru woke up at twilight. He felt like he had slept for several years, as if someone had been pressing hard on his chest the whole time. During these days, he had opened his eyes several times, but his eyelids had been so heavy that he couldnt hold them open for long. In a daze, he had seen a graceful woman looking after him. When she had leaned over to feel his temperature, he could smell her fresh fragrance. Was it a dream or a reality? Young master, youre awake! Youre finally awake! Seeing Li Chengru staring at the ceiling, Fengsheng waved a hand in front of his eyes to check whether he was really awake or not. Li Chengru said huskily, Im thirsty! Fengsheng replied in excitement, Young master, its time to take the medicine. It can also quench your thirst. Li Chengru rolled his eyes upwards. As Li Chengru struggled to sit up and drank the medicine, Fengsheng felt more than relieved and said excitedly, Young master, you finally woke up. Ive been worried about you, afraid that you...We were so happy when we began our journey, so I was so scared that I might have to bring your ashes back alone. Li Chengru red at him. Fengsheng corrected himself immediately, But thanks to Mrs. Ye and Xiao Baoshans mother, youre all right now. Li Chengru was shocked. Little Ye has been here? It was not my hallucination? There was really a woman taking care of me when I was in aa? After hearing Fengshengs description, Li Chengru couldnt believe his ears. Why did she help me even after I had threatened her twice with a knife? He asked in a feeble voice, Are you sure that what that doctor prescribed was medicine instead of poison? Fengsheng opened his eyes wide and said, Of course. If it were poison, youd already be dead. I asked so many people for help, including Mr. Liu, but he just gave me a silver tael to find a doctor, as if I were a beggar. Only Mrs. Ye and Xiao Baoshans mother were willing to help us. To take care of you, Mrs. Ye worked tirelessly the whole afternoon. Li Chengru waved his hand to stop Fengsheng from talking. Then, hey back on his bed, lost in deep thought. Chapter 183 - Its Mrs. Ye!

Chapter 183: Its Mrs. Ye!

Sometimes people thought today or tomorrow would always be like yesterday and that life would go on smoothly. There would always be streets thronged with people and carriages; stores packed with people who talked andughed while eating;nes upied by barking dogs and crowing chickens; mothers punishing their naughty children with canes; children escaping onto streets with naked butts before grimacing at their mothers... Ye Xiaoxian also went out to buy flour as usual. However, she noticed that peoples expressions had changed. Written on their faces was horror, panic and confusion about their futures. Its said that Hongyan country is attacking Hexin county and will soon arrive here. Ah! How are the people there? What else could it be? Once a ce is captured, all the people there will be killed. Theyre facing the same situation. Will we be safe here? Its hard to tell. Im going to leave. Youd better do the same. Fear had almost engulfed the entire county. Anywhere Ye Xiaoxian went, all the conversations were about the war. Hongyan was a small country on a southern ind. It had been causing disturbances from time to time but had neverunched a real attack. Hexin was a county near the southern border in the country of Daqi. If it was captured, Qinghe county would be the next target. The forces in Xinhe county were only enough to handle some small riots, not a real attack. It was anticipated that it couldnt hold on for long. Until then, there had been quite a few people escaping from Xinhe county to Qinghe county. The people in Qinghe, therefore, went into a panic. They found it hard to give up their businesses and the peaceful life here. Escaping away from here was just like a nightmare. If ones homnd was destroyed, he or she would feel like nobody. Around half of the people had left, and the rest were hesitating out of fear. They would ask anybody they met, Do you n to escape? And when? Ye Xiaoxian was also rather perturbed and feeling sad about leaving this ce. For one thing, she had a house and had been living a good life. For another, life could prove to be tough if she chose to leave. However, the war forced her to make the right decision as soon as possible. ... The imperial court at the pce. In front of the old emperor was a mountain of reports about Hongyans sudden attack, pressing him to give an effective order. The ministers were also urging him. Your Majesty, please dispatch troops as soon as possible, or the southern cities will be captured and people there will suffer for it. Your Majesty, we can dispatch the troops near Hexin county and set up a strong defense. The entire pce was inundated with urgent admonitions. Just then, the third prince cast a nce at the state preceptor who noticed this. Then, the state preceptor voiced his opinion, Your Majesty, wed better dispatch the nearby forces to defend against Hongyan first. After that, let a reliable general or prince lead the troops to annihte all enemies. After he had said this, all the other ministers fell into silence. At this sensitive moment, dispatching a prince was equivalent to selecting the crown prince. After all, the chosen one would get a military token which represented the lifeblood of Daqi. Cunningly, he continued, Your Majesty, its up to you who shall lead the troops. However, he should have experience in war and know military strategies and tactics. All the people held their breath as they waited for the response. Some of them were considering the interests of their own parties, but none of them dared to voice their opinions. However, the emperor did not say a word. His eyes were partially closed, as if he had fallen asleep. ... After leaving the pce, the third prince and the state preceptor met again at the secluded house. The third prince kept his own counsel as usual. After taking a sip of tea, he said calmly, Do you think my father was feigning deafness or not? Yes, I suppose so. After all, he needs time to consider all this, the state preceptor replied. He continued, Your Highness, do not worry. No matter who leads the troops, the situation is under our control. If its you, you can get the imperial power directly. If not, it could only be General Peng or General Qian, who are also our people. The third prince took another sip and said, Then how should we handle the war against Hongyan? The state preceptor smiled and said, Hongyan has no choices. If it surrenders, we can keep its ind intact just as weve promised. If not, we can only annihte it. The third prince agreed with silence. ... Qinghe county. Apart from flour, Ye Xiaoxian had bought plenty of rice and bacon. Li Hongmei asked in surprise, Little Ye, why did you buy so much food? Many people are leaving. The butcher has taken his whole family to seek refuge in his rtives house in Wucheng. What about us? Should we leave or not? Without hesitation, Ye Xiaoxian said, Yes! The food is for our journey. Mom, please inform our rtives to pack up only food and money. Ah? Are we really leaving? Li Hongmei was rather reluctant to go. She looked around the yard and then the house, which had a fine roof made of ck tiles. The spacious rooms, especially, were warm in winter and cool in summer. Little Ye, cant we wait for a few days? Li Hongmei hesitated. Im afraid itll be toote by then. There are many refugees on the streets now. Even if we are not killed by enemy troops, well be robbed and harmed by refugees. Itll be even harder to stay alive then. Once many people had be desperate refugees, they wouldnt remain sober anymore. As long as they could fill their bellies, they wouldnt care about morality. Ye Xiaoxian had watched quite a few disaster films, so she knew a little about being prepared to flee home. Instead of escaping alone, it was better to join asrge a group as possible, or robbery would be much more likely. For this reason, Ye Xiaoxian knew she must flee with her rtives in the vige. Persuaded by Ye Xiaoxian, Li Hongmei hurried back to the vige and warned all the people to escape, including her family members. At the same time, Ye Xiaoxian went with haste to the Wong family. She was worried about Xiao Baozhu, for one thing, and she also wanted to buy two horses from the stud farm there. She nned to make two horse-drawn carriages so that they could move faster and take more food supplies. Since she was early, there were a dozen horses for her to choose from on the stud farm. She bought two of them and let a man harness them to two carriages. Then, she headed for Schr Wongs ce and asked him whether he nned to leave or not. However, he answered her affirmatively, Were not leaving. Why not? she asked in surprise. He said, We cant go far. Perhaps we can go to Zhengwu county where our rtives are, but we are a big family here and if we leave, the county will cease to exist. Besides, we have arge fortune and a widework of friends here. If we go elsewhere, well be nobodies. Better than death, she said. He let out a sigh. My dad is too old to leave. He said he belongs to Qinghe county and would rather die in his homnd. Besides, Qingqing is pregnant. If we run about, my wife and my baby may die on the journey. I dont want to see that happen. She asked, What about Baozhu? I want to take her away. He said casually, Of course you can. She belongs to your family and should go with you. Hearing this, she couldnt help feeling sorry for Xiao Baozhu. At such a critical moment, this man only cared about his wife. After doing so much for the Wong family, Xiao Baozhu was still thought of as an outsider. Chapter 184 - Fleeing the Country II

Chapter 184: Fleeing the Country II

Ye Xiaoxian went to find Xiao Baozhu and tried to persuade her to leave together. However, Xiao Baozhu refused her offer. Stubbornly and resolutely, she said, Since I came here, Ive belonged to the Wong family. If they dont want to leave, Ill also stay with them. Ye Xiaoxian felt the girl was very pathetic. Baozhu, you consider yourself part of this family, but they dont think of you like that. Schr Wong told me that I can take you away because you dont belong here. Get real, Baozhu. Youre not his wife and hes never loved you. If youe with me today, you can find another good man one day. Dont be silly, Baozhu! Xiao Baozhu seemingly knew what Schr Wong thought of her. She felt heartbroken about that, but she was still convinced that she should stay. Sister Ye, I dont care what he thinks of me. Anyway, I consider myself to be his. His father is too old and Qingqing is pregnant. If I go with you, this family willck a helper. His father is good to me, so I cant be that ungrateful! You... Ye Xiaoxian became angry. Why dont you consider your mother, Baofeng or me? Do you know how much well be worried about you if we leave you alone here? Hearing that, Xiao Baozhu suddenly turned and went back into her room. After a while, she walked out with some jewels and said, These are all mine. Sister Ye, please give them to Mom. I cant take care of her anymore. Please look after her for me on the journey. I will repay your kindness in the next life! It was obvious that she had made up her mind. If she were not so stubborn, she wouldnt have stayed in the Wong family. It was said that one would turn around after knocking into a wall. But she was the kind that would keep trying to go forward, even when badly injured. Ye Xiaoxian stopped insisting. After hiring two men to drive the carriages home, she left with the jewels. She had to pick Xiao Baofeng up from the school. ... Li Hongmei also failed to persuade her rtives. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu didnt want to give up their jobs in the government office, as it would not be easy to find such jobs elsewhere. Thezy old man was yet more reluctant to move. After all, he had never even filled a rice bowl or looked after children. The journey would be so hard that hed rather die at home. When Li Hongmei tried to persuade him, Old Mr Xiao hurled abuse at her. Flee? Im so old! Do you want me to die halfway? You said there would be enemy soldiers? Fine, just let theme! Ill kill them and...and Ill be a hero! Youzy old man, dont let yourself be kicked to death before you be a hero, Li Hongmei thought to herself. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju also decided to stay. If they left today, they might nevere back again. Besides, where could they go? How could they find a ce to settle down? If they had to wander for a month or a year, sooner orter they would die. Li Hongmei gave up her attempts at persuasion and said, Little Ye will go as soon as shes ready. You can join us if you want to. We have two carriages to carry food. But we cant wait for long. After saying this, she went home angrily. When she arrived home at twilight, the scenes on the streets had totally changed. Half of the stores had opened in the morning, but now almost all of them were closed. Many people were pushing carts and escaping with their families. Li Hongmei had been wavering over whether to escape or not, but the fleeing crowds had confirmed Ye Xiaoxians words. She realized that this might be the only way to stay alive. ... After hearing Li Hongmeisints, Ye Xiaoxian told her that Xiao Baozhu had also refused to go with them. Li Hongmei sighed and said, Baozhu is such a silly girl! She then asked, Theres only the three of us then. Are we still leaving? Yes! Ye Xiaoxian replied firmly. Hongyan is a small ind country trying to expand its domain. No invasion will spare the local people. If the enemy arrive here, they will kill anyone they see. Even if they spare us, we would live like ves, so wed better go. Everyone has his or her own destiny. I cant tell what will happen next. Just let fate take its course. The rims of Li Hongmeis eyes became red as she wept, but she wiped away her tears after a while. Tears were useless now. They wouldnt bring Xiao Baozhu back to her, nor would they persuade her rtives toe with her. Ye Xiaoxian said, Mom, please take Baofeng back. I want to meet Liu Qianqian. Shall we go with the Liu family? I hope so. They are a big family, so well be safer with them. If there are just three of us, we might get robbed the moment we step outside the county, Ye Xiaoxian exined. ... The Liu family was much wiser than the Wong family. Since Liu Qianqian had just got married, the rednterns and pretty stickers were still decorating the house. However, Liu Qianqian was packing up her luggage, getting ready to leave. Seeing Ye Xiaoxian, Liu Qianqian came up to her and said worriedly, Little Ye, why are you still walking about? Were preparing to leave. Chapter 185 - Pre-Escape Meeting

Chapter 185: Pre-Escape Meeting

Youve got me wrong. I just want to know when you will leave. Perhaps we can go together so that we can look after each other. Quick-wittedly, Liu Qianqian said, I remember you also have a big family. Your uncles are robust office attendants and your aunts are healthy peasants. You will be safer with them. As you know, we are not as strong as your rtives, so we can only set off early to avoid idents. Ye Xiaoxian gave her a wry smile. I have only Mrs. Li and Baofeng now. My other rtives have refused to go with us, no matter how much weve persuaded them. What? They dont want to go? Its too dangerous here! My dad said that money and houses are the least of our concerns at this critical moment. Staying alive is the top priority. We n to go to our distant rtives for shelter. Ye Xiaoxian said, Its so good to have distant rtives. I believe you will be safe there. So where are they? Beihui. Its somewhere to the north of the Changjiang River, near the capital, said Liu Qianqian. Ye Xiaoxian did not know where to go. Their safety could be better guaranteed if they went north to the capital. The west could also provide them with good shelter, but they might starve to death there. Noticing her friends worry, Liu Qianqian pped her chest and said, You can join us if there are only three of you. The Liu family and the Jia family have a dozen people. We can form a small group together. Ye Xiaoxian smiled and asked, Do your words count? Dont you need to ask your fathers opinion? Of course not. Youre my friend and you helped me find my soulmate. My father likes you very much. Dont worry. Lets go tomorrow morning. Oh yes, do you have any carriages or carts? Have you prepared enough food? The stores elsewhere may have also closed. Ye Xiaoxian replied, Ive bought two carriages, and both of them areden with food. Excellent! Liu Qianqian ced a hand on her shoulder and said, Youre so efficient! Its settled then. Lets meet tomorrow morning. ...Visit website Ye Xiaoxian felt somewhat relieved knowing that they could go with the Liu family. Having gone back home, Baofeng said that his school would close the following day. His teachers encouraged the students to escape because the county would be bathed in blood once it was captured. Besides, the imperial court didnt pay much attention to Hongyan, whose disturbances had never made notable waves. However, the refugees from Hexin county showed the severity of the war this time. His teachers also spected that Hongyan must have colluded with a Daqi traitor or have allied themselves with Beiqing. Otherwise, this insignificant country would not have been so reckless. Hearing this, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei became more resolute to leave. They then began packing up their luggage. They didnt take many clothes because they wouldnt have time to bathe on the journey. Underwear was necessary though, and as for jewels, only a few small pieces were selected. Some of the jewels were gifts from Xiao Baoshan, but they were neither light nor valuable, so Ye Xiaoxian left them in the lockers. Xiao Baofeng wanted to take some books, but Ye Xiaoxian stopped him because they were too heavy. She didnt want the horses to die halfway of exhaustion due to carrying so much for so long. In the end, they put in a carriage a pot, bowls, chopsticks, money, rice, bacon, and noodles. Anything beyond these things would be left home as, after all, this was an escape and not a tour. It was dark when they had everything ready. Li Hongmei had heated some water for them to have a good bath because they would not have the chance for a long time. Baofeng suggested they could bathe in rivers, but was immediately refuted by Ye Xiaoxian. She said with a smile, Itll get cooler as we go north. The water is also cold, so wed better not bathe. If we get sick, the journey will be much tougher for us. After she had said that, they felt a wave of sadness and fell into silence. ... As they were going to their respective rooms, there was a heavy banging at the door. Sister Li! Hongmei! Little Ye! There was a hubbub of voices. Their rtives hade. Li Hongmei opened the door only to see all her rtives, including Old Man Xiao. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were pulling two cartsden with food and the others were all carrying heavy bags. Ah! You... Li Hongmei was surprised. Youve decided toe with us? Xiao Tieshu replied, Yes. We must leave here. Our damned county magistrate imed that he had some official business to handle elsewhere and left with his whole family as well as a lot of luggage. Obviously, he was escaping! If I hadnt guarded the gate, we would have been truly cheated and be waiting to die here! Xiao Tongshu added, We nned to leave tonight, but the gate is closed. So we may as well go with you tomorrow. Oh yes, I remember you have two carriages! We only have two carts, but there are so many children and an old man. Could you let them sit in your carriages? Li Hongmei hesitated. You said you wouldnt go with us this afternoon, soe on! We didnt count you in! Weve nned to sit in one carriage and carry food with the other. Besides, well be safe with the Liu family. The only trouble is that we dont know much about riding, but we can hire someone for that. But now there were so many people that it meant some of them had to walk. However, Ye Xiaoxian smiled generously and said, The carriages can be shared, but we have to sit in them in turn. After all, the carriages have to carry a lot of baggage, so only a few of us can sit at a time. Old Man Xiao objected. Im too old to walk. I must sit the entire way, otherwise I wont go with you. Just let me die here! Grandpa, youre the eldest; of course you can sit all the way. What I mean is that we young people should take turns to sit, she exined. Anyway, the eldest had the greatest power in an ancient family. No matter how pesky Old Man Xiao was, his age would not allow him to trek such a long way. Urgently made, the carriages were smaller than any luxurious ones. upied with luggage, each of them could only allow one or two people inside. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju could go on foot, but Chen Jus two children were too little. Baoxue was six years old and Baoyang was eight. They would have to sit down frequently. Ye Xiaoxian turned to Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu and said, Uncles, let me see how much luggage you have and how much is really necessary. Wed better give up everything except for food, clothes and nkets. Xiao Tieshu said, Youre right. Ive taken all the food from home. Mudan even wanted to take coats, but I criticized her and told her that we were preparing for an escape, not a winter holiday. Wong Mudan felt wronged. I heard that it will be colder as we walk north. When it snows with the northerly gales, how will we get through it without coats? We might die halfway before we see snow. Who will care whether its cold or not by then, Xiao Tieshu said. Wong Mudan wanted to cry, but she fought back the tears. Chen Ju shared the same feeling. She had made a jar of pickles before the Spring Festival, but Xiao Tongshu made her leave them at home and said they wouldnt eat them. Why? Why cant we eat pickles on the journey? She was confused. Xiao Tongshu rebuked, Eat pickles? Do you also want to have three bowls of porridge at a time? We must pinch and scrape on the journey. A bowl of porridge is enough for a meal. In the end, what they brought were two bags of potatoes, rice and bacon and a jar of soybeans. Ye Xiaoxian didnt bother responding to the two moody women. She asked her uncles to ssify the items before cramming them into a carriage. If there wasnt enough room, they still needed to pull the carts. After the preparation was done, Ye Xiaoxian summoned everyone over for a short meeting. She had always kept a low profile, but they found she was the calmest and wisest in urgent situations. Except for Old Man Xiao, they all sat down around her. She cleared her throat and said steadily, My mom, Baofeng and I nned to follow Squire Liu in leaving here. With enough food and good protection, we believed our journey wouldnt be too hard. After all, we could sit in one carriage and carry our luggage in the other. Hearing that, most of them lowered their heads in guilt. If they hadnt thought of her carriages which could carry Old Man Xiao, they might have left the county with their two carts. Their sudden arrival would definitely be a burden for Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei. But then they thought Li Hongmei, as a member of this family, also had a responsibility to take care of Old Man Xiao. Ye Xiaoxian knew exactly what they were thinking about. She just wanted to tell them she had a greater say because she owned both the carriages and the Liu familyspany. But she would offer help because they were a family. Although they had conflicts normally, they would give the greatest help in such critical moments. She continued, Now that were a family, we must be united as one on this journey. We must share our carriages and food, and well have to stick together through thick and thin. If you can do this, you can join us. If you consider only your own interests then theres no need for us to stay together, right? Chapter 186 - Its Mrs. Ye! I

Chapter 186: Its Mrs. Ye! I

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio After thinking it over for a moment, they knew that Ye Xiaoxian was right. Wong Mudan had nned to hide some of her food until all the rest was eaten up. But Ye Xiaoxians words struck her heart, making her flush in embarrassment. Xiao Tieshu said, You women can be responsible for the food, and Tongshu and I can pull the carts. Ye Xiaoxian nodded in approval. No problem. But from now on, all of our food must be shared. I dont care who bought the cabbage, corn or bacon and I dont want anyone to argue about this. In fact, they discovered that Ye Xiaoxian had the most food which originally might have been shared only between two. Therefore, she was in the most unfavorable position when it came to sharing food. Seeing that she didnt care about this, they also had no objection. They particrly couldnt help admiring her charisma. It was no wonder she could run an ever-prospering restaurant. Xiao Tieshu said, Okay, no problem. Ye Xiaoxian added, So much for the food. Just as Uncle Tieshu said, he and Uncle Tongshu will pull the carts. Since this is hard work, they dont need to do the cooking. Baofeng, Baocheng, Baoyang and Baoxue can collect the firewood. Baofeng raised his hand high immediately and said, Okay, I agree. Following him, the other three kids also said yes with pleasure. The atmosphere became enlivened by their attitudes. Ye Xiaoxian said, Excellent! Then my mom and I are responsible for cooking, and aunts for washing and cutting vegetables. If theres anything else, we can be flexible about it. We must support and help each other, rather than doing only our assigned work. The listeners nodded approvingly. Now that everyone knew their duties, it was time to arrange the carriages. Ye Xiaoxian said, We have two carriages, but most of the space has been upied. So only a few of us can sit in them at a time. Our grandpa will have to sit the whole way. Since Baoxue is still little, she also needs frequent rests. The rest of us can take turns to sit for two hours. Agreed? They looked at each other before nodding. In fact, they were more used to walking than sitting in carriages. For them, it was good enough for them to have a two-hour rest. They therefore agreed readily. Ye Xiaoxian concluded, If you have no objections, you can have a good sleep here. It will be a long time before we can sleep in beds again ... Except for Old Mr. Xiao, all of them tossed and turned restlessly on the beds before they finally fell asleep. Not surprisingly, they woke up before daybreak. Since the house was near the street, they could hear loud noisesing from outside. More and more people were growing anxious to leave the county. The rumblings of carts and shouts of the people were filling the air. Some were urging those behind them to catch up, some were yelling at children for their tardiness and others wereining about their wives forgetfulness. The Xiao family was also ready to set off. Since they had made full preparations in advance, they acted very neatly. Except for Old Mr. Xiao. Since getting up, he had been yelling for porridge and fried potatoes. However, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei had just steamed a pot of sweet potatoes and buns for them to eat on the journey. Being ignored, Old Mr. Xiao flew into a rage and said he wouldnt go with an empty belly. No one was in the mood to coax this old brat. They were busy with their own things, leaving him in the cold. Only when they were about to leave did Ye Xiaoxian say, Grandpa, do you want to go with us? If you do, get on the carriage. If not, then well have to leave you here. Old Mr. Xiao blew up at her. Where are my fried potatoes? Grandpa, were escaping. You wont die without fried potatoes, but you will if you stay here. Its all up to you! she said bluntly. You... Wong Mudan and Chen Ju had long been putting up with the old man, so they couldnt help chuckling to themselves when hearing Ye Xiaoxians words. As was nned, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu pulled the carts while Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei drove the carriages. The two women had only just learned a few of the skills the day before, so the horses walked slowly. But gradually, they got the hang of it as they spurred the horses on faster. The others found there would be enough room if they all squeezed up a little. Some of them had to sit on the flour bags, though the crouching made their feet go numb very easily. However, it would be better sit than to stand, in order to save energy at such a time. ... ording to her initial n, Ye Xiaoxian had to meet Liu Qianqian first. Liu Qianqian and her family had been waiting at the county gate. Apart from them, half of the people in the county had gathered there and were waiting for the gate to open. Liu Qianqian waved her hand at Ye Xiaoxian from distance. Then, she jumped off the carriage and nudged her way through the crowd before she came up to her friend. Didnt you say they wouldnt go with you? Why are they here now? Ye Xiaoxian said, They did tell us they would stay here, but they changed their mindsst night. Then will youe with us? Liu Qianqian asked. Ye Xiaoxian looked at the Liu familys five carriages which could even carry the maids. Although some servants had to go on foot, their strong bodies would allow them to walk fast. She said, Im afraid we cant keep up with you. We have only two carriages and two carts. I think we can go separately. We will try to follow you, but you dont need to wait for us if weg behind you. I dont want us to be a burden to you. Liu Qianqian said, Ill try to persuade my father to wait for you as much as we can. Thats nice of you. Thank you! Ye Xiaoxian replied gratefully. Liu Qianqian added, If he agrees, Ill wave my handkerchief from the window of my carriage. Okay! When Liu Qianqian went back to her carriage, she waved her handkerchief as promised. Ye Xiaoxian gave her an OK gesture in reply. ... As more and more people crowded at the entrance, they became increasingly impatient. The officers had arrived, but they didnt open the gate ahead of the usual time. Some people beganining loudly and the officers rebuked back. When the conflicts raged, Squire Liu mediated between them. He was so sophisticated that he calmed both sides down immediately. When the gate was finally opened, people began to file out. Ye Xiaoxian also asked Li Hongmei to get the horses out fast. Ye Xiaoxian had mastered the rhythms of driving her carriage, but the dense crowd put Li Hongmei in a flurry. Crashed into by a passing carriage, her horse charged forwards out of control, which startled the people around them, causing them to scream. Chapter 187 - It’s Mrs. Ye II

Chapter 187: Its Mrs. Ye II

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio In her carriage were Wong Mudan, Chen Ju and Baoxue. Their faces blue with fear, the two adults decided to get off the carriage after a while. Chen Ju said, I didnt expect that horses also have tempers, just like men. Wong Mudan said, How can youpare horses to men? Men are sensible, but horses are animals. They will be much fiercer if they get mad. Scared by their conversation, Baoxue shivered involuntarily and held her mother tightly. Sitting in Ye Xiaoxians carriage were some daring boys and Old Mr. Xiao. Baocheng and Baoyang had been crying in excitement since it was their first time riding in a carriage. Annoyed by the noise, Old Mr. Xiao shouted, Why must those big families have carriages? I thought it would befortable to sit here, but my butts aching from the jolting! No one bothered to respond to hisints. The boys kept cheering Ye Xiaoxian on to go faster. Of course, she didnt satisfy their strong desire. For one thing, she wasnt skilled in driving the carriage. For another, if her horse ran faster, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu would undoubtedlyg far behind. Therefore, she just took her time. ... Since there were too many people and carriages around her, Ye Xiaoxian had to be very careful to avoid collisions. Not long after she passed through the gate, a grand carriage overtook hers and stopped. Mrs. Ye? the driver asked. Ye Xiaoxian squinted at him and saw that it was Fengsheng. Fengsheng! Ye Xiaoxian greeted. Since his master had recovered from the disease, Ye Xiaoxian hadnt seen Fengsheng again. During these days, she had been upied with preparations for the escape. She had thought that they had returned to the capital. Mrs. Ye, where are you going? Fengsheng asked. Ye Xiaoxian kept on driving as she replied, I dont know. Perhaps we can find a dwelling on the way. What about you? Are you going to the capital? He answered, Perhaps. We dont have anywhere else to go. She replied with a polite smile. Then, he let her go ahead and followed slowly behind. Young master, Mrs. Ye is in front of us, he said turning around. Bored to death, Li Chengru was sitting limply in the carriage. I heard it. Im not deaf, he drawledzily. Young master, dont you want to say hello to her? Fengsheng asked. No! Li Chengru rejected decidedly. He hadnt nned to escape the county. The invaders could be easily handled by the convened forces. Besides, he was anxious to get to the front lines and fight to the death. However, Fengsheng discouraged him. The forces on the Xinhe border would soon be defeated. What difference could Li Chengru make there? He had never fought on the battlefield, knew nothing about military tactics and, furthermore, he was just an obscure prince. For these three reasons, he was likely to court death there. Fengsheng advised him to be patient until the imperial court sent reinforcements. It wouldnt be toote to defend their country by then. Persuaded, Li Chengru asked Fengsheng to get a carriage to leave the county. ... Ye Xiaoxian had no idea where their destination was. Now that Liu Qianqian was going north, she also decided to try her luck there. Everyone was energetic on the first day of escaping. Even Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were full of vigor, moving rapidly with the heavy carts. There had been a sea of people at the very beginning, but as they left in different directions, only a few trekked the same way as the Xiao family. Although the Liu family had promised to wait for them, they had already disappeared far off into the distance. Liu Qianqian was a trustworthy friend, but she had to follow her familys decision. Therefore, Ye Xiaoxian didnt me her for going too fast. It was at noon when they stopped in a forest where there was a river was nearby. Since everybody felt hungry, Ye Xiaoxian suggested taking a brief rest there. Then, they got off the carriages one after another. The narrow space inside had numbed their feet. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju keptining. Oh my god! Id rather pull the carts than sit here. Im limp and dizzy, and almost want to throw up! Old Mr. Xiao also cursed as he trembled down, Can I eat fried potatoes now? Li Hongmei said, Dad, we cant fry potatoes here! Why? Dont you have a pot? Ye Xiaoxian sneered. Grandpa, do you know how long it takes to fry potatoes? We have to peel them first, pick some firewood and use a lot of oil. We have neither time nor the oil to waste. Its noon now. We can only eat some buns before continuing on. Xiao Tieshu echoed, Dad, were escaping, not picking. We must hurry to the next town before it gets dark, or well have to sleep in the carriages tonight. Ye Xiaoxian gave everyone a steamed bun and asked the children to fetch water from the river. They would drink it to help swallow the dried food. The children still felt hungry after eating the buns, let alone the adults. Old Mr. Xiao began cursing again. But Ye Xiaoxian exined emphatically, We have 11 people here. 11 buns need about 250 grams of flour. Since we will have dinner, at least 500 grams of flour will be consumed in a day. Think about how much flour we have! Now we must save as much as we possibly can. We can eat a little more at night. After giving Old Mr. Xiao one more bun, Ye Xiaoxian tied up the food package. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu also felt empty in their bellies, but they could only follow the rules they had agreed onst night. Anyway, their hunger could be lessened if they drank more water. While they were resting, Fengsheng drove the carriage past them. He informed Li Chengru, Young master, its Mrs. Ye! Chapter 188 - Give Them Some Porridge

Chapter 188: Give Them Some Porridge

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Li Chengru was still slouching in the carriage. His eyes zed with fury. He wanted to go to the front line. He wished to join an army and was anxious to do something for people. But he could do nothing by himself! He was such a dashing man who shouldnt have joined the refugees. People in the capital wouldugh at him pitilessly if they knew this. Hearing Fengshengs words, he leaned over the window and looked around. Were they a family? An old man, children and middle-aged men and women were eating buns and drinking water. Their stark carriages were made of unpainted wood and cloth canopies. They were neither winter-hardy nor water-proof, especially if there was a rainstorm. He tutted. What poor guys! Can they hold on for half a month this way? Finally, his eyes fell on Ye Xiaoxian. Leaning against a carriage, she was chewing a bun in a graceful manner. She looked surprisingly different from many refugees, whose eyes were normally perplexed. He couldnt find any hint of panic in her. Despite her petite figure, she looked strong-minded, fearless and confident. She seemed undefeatable, however tough the future might be. For her, steamed buns and unboiled water meant nothing more than another way of living. He was shocked by her hidden power. He had felt the same hope and strength from the soft figure taking care for him that night. But he drew the curtain immediately, stopping himself from seeing her. The longer his eyes remained on her, the softer his heart would be. It was as if the ice inside him was slowly melting. ... In this era, cities were often far apart from each other. People in one city had to cross many mountains, viges or towns to reach another city. The viges along the escape route had be almost empty. People had joined those fleeing after learning of the news. Only the elderly, the infirm and the physically-challenged remained behind. When it got dark, Ye Xiaoxian and her family finally reached a vige that was bustling with people and aze with light. But as they moved closer, they found it was the refugees, camping on a vacant lot. Though it was called camping, there were no tents at all. Each family just sat around a campfire to get warm and bake something for dinner. It was too dark for them to continue their journey, so Ye Xiaoxian suggested taking a rest here. There was no objection. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu had been exhausted after pulling the carts for a whole day. The only thing they wanted to do was to sleep on the grass right away, but Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei stopped them before they rolled out two mats on the ground. Then, Ye Xiaoxian asked the children to collect some firewood nearby. However, all the firewood there had already been collected by other people. They needed to walk farther. As she was hesitating, she heard someone crying, Little Ye! Little Ye! Turning around, she saw Liu Qianqian and her family sitting around a zing campfire. There were not many viges in this area. The next one might be far away, so they just stopped here for a night. Liu Qianqian asked, Why are you sote? Weve been here for over two hours. Ye Xiaoxian replied with a smile, Youre too fast with carriages. We have to pull the carts. But you still caught up with us! As long as we go the same way, well meet up sooner orter. Liu Qianqian was optimistic. But Ye Xiaoxian gave a wry smile and said, Yes. But theres no firewood around here now. Itll be cold in the evening without firewood. Liu Qianqian said instantly, You can go southwest. There are two empty houses, and with any luck, you can find firewood there. Thats where we got ours. Hearing that, she decided to go there with Xiao Baofeng and Xiao Baocheng in the darkness. The vige was extremely quiet with only one or two windows illuminated. They moved stealthily, afraid to break the silence. In theory, people could take a rest in these empty houses whose owners had left, but no one did so. They were worried that the houses were ominous or had been filled with rat poison. Although the owners had gone, they entertained the hope ofing back here one day. To protect their houses from rats and intruders, they might have sprinkled poison in every corner. For this same reason, Li Hongmei had also covered Ye Xiaoxians yard and house with liquid manure. Ye Xiaoxian hoped the owners could forgive them for fetching some firewood from there. After a while, the trio found the houses. However, the ces were so gloomily quiet that the kids dared not go in, afraid that some imagined ghosts would pop out. Ye Xiaoxian was also frightened, but she needed firewood desperately. Therefore, she summoned the nerve to push open the door of one of the houses. As she merely touched it, however, the door swung open automatically. The kids were scared and began crying. Ye Xiaoxian also let out an involuntary scream. When they were about to escape, someone asked from inside, Mrs. Ye? Fengsheng? Ye Xiaoxian, about to leave, stopped in her tracks. Why is he here? She looked over her shoulder and saw Fengshengs handsome face bathed in moonlight. Holding a pile of wood, he asked, Do you want firewood? You can take mine. As he handed the firewood to her, Xiao Baofeng came up to take it. If they went easy on the wood, this was enough for them to burn throughout the night. Ye Xiaoxian expressed her gratitude to him before she left. She knew a martial-arts students vision at night was above average, just like Xiao Baoshans. Therefore, she wasnt worried that Fengsheng would confront any danger in the darkness. ... When they went back to the vige entrance, the other family members were lying limp on the mats or on the grass. Old Mr. Xiao, in particr, wasining loudly about his hunger and exhaustion. He imed that if he had known how hard the journey would be, he would rather have waited to die in his hometown. Xiao Tieshu tried tofort this chattering old man at first, but soon he got tired and gave up. Exhausted, Wong Mudan and Chen Ju directly turned a deaf ear to his whining. Although the two women looked aggressive in their hometown, they were now totally obedient to Ye Xiaoxian, the only calm and brainy person here. When Ye Xiaoxian got back, she asked them to make a fire and boil some water got from a nearby river. Then, she took out some buns, two for each person. After whittling a dozen sticks, she strung the buns together and brushed some oil on them. She gave each person a bunch and let them bake the buns over the fire. Miraculously, exhaustion faded away from their faces. Especially the children. Although they felt tired after the long journey, they were well protected by the adults. Now they could even have a pic, which made them more than excited. When another campfire was burning, Ye Xiaoxian let Wong and Chen set up a pot. Then, she put some rice in the water and began cooking porridge. When they were baking the buns, the others were all attracted by the delicious smells. Some of them were eating solid food and some having porridge, but none had tried baked buns. The appetizing buns drew everyones attention. Li Chengrus eyes were also fixed on the buns. Fengsheng had prepared lots of solid food for him, including baked cakes and steamed buns, but nothing more. He had just finished two chewy and cold cakes which barely qualified as food in his opinion. After Fengsheng lit the fire, Li Chengru also tried to bake a bun. However, it was immediately burnt, though he didnt know why. He then realized that Ye Xiaoxian had brushed some oil on the buns. But unfortunately, he didnt have any oil. He threw away the miserable food sullenly and turned his attention to Ye Xiaoxians porridge. When the water boiled away, the alluring smell of rice wafted up from the pot. But Ye Xiaoxian insisted that they should wait until the porridge became creamy. Li Chengru also wanted to taste some, but they didnt bring a pot. He couldnt help ming Fengsheng for his carelessness. If only they had brought a pot, not just solid food! ... When Ye Xiaoxiandled out the porridge for everyone, Li Hongmei nudged her and whispered, Little Ye, Li Chengru has been watching us. Ye Xiaoxian looked in the direction she pointed and met Li Chengrus eyes. More specifically, he was staring at the porridge in her bowl. She could understand this. The journey made everyone tired and thirsty, so nothing could be better than enjoying some warm porridge at this moment. Old Mr. Xiao had proved this point. He had been moring for fried rice and fried potatoes, but now he was watching the porridge quietly and expectantly. She said, Mom, the firewood was given to us by Fengsheng. What about letting Baofeng send two bowls of porridge to them? After all, we have enough to eat. Li Hongmei thought for a while before she agreed. Okay. The journey is tough for everyone. Perhaps after tonight, we wont have a chance to meet again. We may as well leave them a good impression. ... Chapter 189 - Robbers

Chapter 189: Robbers

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio As Fengsheng stoked the fire, Xiao Baofeng came up to them with two bowls of porridge. He said, Hi! My mom asked me to send you some porridge. Thank you for the firewood! Wishing to warm his stomach up, Fengsheng took the bowls with gratitude and said, Thank you! Are you Xiao Baofeng? Yes! But how do you know? Xiao Baofeng asked. Fengsheng felt too embarrassed to tell him that he had pried into the information about his family, so he replied with a smile, I heard from the people in Qinghe county. They said you are a promising boy. Thank you, Xiao Baofeng flushed a bit. Fengsheng handed a bowl of porridge to Li Chengru, but he didnt take it immediately. Instead, he stared at it with suspicion. As a pampered prince, he had been picky about food and had never shared his bowl with others. But in front of him now was nothing more than an ordinary pottery bowl which was ck all over without any floral patters. He suspected that it was not very clean. Xiao Baofeng was waiting for them. He wanted to get the bowls back after they finished the porridge. Noticing Li Chengrus frown, Xiao Baofeng soon understood what he was worried about. He exined immediately, Its clean. Weve washed it well. Li Chengru asked, Who washed it? Sister Ye. It was taken from our house. Hearing that, Li Chengru finally took the bowl and tasted the porridge little by little. The food instantly warmed him up and swept away his exhaustion. It was an unprecedentedfort, as if he had just taken a rxing bath. He then handed the empty bowl to Xiao Baofeng who then took it back to his campsite. Ye Xiaoxian had asked Wong Mudan and Chen Ju to get some water in advance. She gathered the bowls together and washed them carefully. Only then did Li Chengru believe the bowl was clean. The evening wore on. Some refugees joined the camping as the earlyers became sleepy. Gradually, the ce quieted down until nothing more was heard. Every family had taken all their assets with them. Therefore, there would always be a family member guarding their possessions while the others were asleep. Most families were well-disciplined since they still had enough food. Although no one dared to steal things tantly, it was always necessary to take precautions. Havong once worked as constables, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu had experience on night watch. One of them was responsible for guarding before midnight and the other would take over after that. The two men thus shouldered the responsibility to protect the familys property. Ye Xiaoxian, Li Hongmei and Xiao Baocheng slept on the same mat and shared a quilt. Fortunately, the night was not too cold, so they could have a sound sleep, but Ye Xiaoxian was unable to get to sleep at first while due to the thundering snoring of Li Hongmei and Old Mr. Xiao. Only after a moment of tossing and turning did she finally get to sleep. On the other side, Li Chengru was also growing tired. Their carriage was big enough for them to stretch outfortably inside and a quilt could protect them from the cold. After they doused the me, Li Chengru had a look around him. The ce was packed with campfires and sleeping figures, which reminded him of the fires of war and the miserable corpses on the battlefield. He shivered involuntarily. ... The next morning, the Xiao family hurried on with their journey. They became slightly listless and low-spirited. Evidently, their pace was slowing down. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu, especially, had to exert a great deal of energy to move the carts. The amount of time they needed to rest increased, as did the frequency of their breaks. Now, they were forced to stop and drink water every two hours. That evening, Ye Xiaoxian could still catch up with Liu Qianqian. However, they never met again after that. Li Chengru and Fengsheng also disappeared from Ye Xiaoxians world. She felt somewhat sad. Such is a disaster, she thought. It will change everything around you, including who you meet and what you eat. Fortunately, she still had her family. Although they sometimes quarreled, they were the most reliable people in the face of danger. Putting aside all their old petty differences, they shared amon goal to settle down earlier. On the fifth day, they arrived at the foot of a mountain. Ye Xiaoxian knew little about the ancient roadwork, but Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu could figure out which rivers, mountains or townsy on their route north. Standing in front of them now was Wuyang Mountain, beyond which was Zhengwu county. The ces that then followed were Beihui city and then the capital. The mountain roads were narrow, but an endless stream of carriages and carts had bent the weeds on both sides. nked by trees, the mountain roads were quiet with the asional twitter of wildlife, but Ye Xiaoxian was suspicious of this apparent peace. Although they hadnt passed any viges these past days, the roads had been open enough for them to see everything clearly at a nce. However, they were now surrounded by countless trees. She was alert to the potential dangers that could be lurking behind the trees. Cautious about robberies, she knew that they must beat the robbers back with all tools they could use. However old they were, thest thing they wanted to do was to be cowards. Even if their enemies were refugees, they still had to fight mercilessly. Food meant everything in these crucial times, as one was unlikely to survive without it. They should also feel no sympathy for other refugees. With limited resources, one could not afford to show his or her generosity. There were always refugees dying on this tough journey, and only seven or eight out of every ten people might survive. Ye Xiaoxian hoped that her family could all remain safe. Restless, she stopped the carriages and woke up those sleeping. Then, she gave everyone a tool, such as a shovel or a stick, in case they encountered any difficulties. Affected by her mood, the others also got nervous. As one-time constables, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu were on high alert, knowing the high crime rate in such a wild andplicated ce. After full preparation, Ye Xiaoxian got them moving on their journey again. Though panicked, Li Hongmei knew it was necessary to be brave and tried to encourage Wong Mudan and Chen Ju. Sisters, you have great strength. Not many women could heave four buckets of water at a time. We must fight against robbers and protect our food and carriages, or our journey might end here! The two scared women tried topose themselves and said, Youre right! No matter who they might be, well beat the crap out of them! Just then, Wong Mudan was holding a bucket, Chen Ju a spat and Baoxue a rolling pin. It became increasingly isted as they moved deeper into the towering woods which blocked the sky from their view. A momentter, Ye Xiaoxians hunch came true. When they turned a corner, a gang of people popped out and stopped in front of the carriages. There were eight ragged men who appeared to be refugees. Ye Xiaoxian sighed with relief that they were not confronting bandits. In theory, such desperate robbers would say something like Pay up or die!, after they had rushed out. However, they didnt get a chance. Ye Xiaoxian shouted first, Go! Beat them! Protect our belongings! The three women, Baofeng and Baoyang jumped down from the carriages at once and swung their weapons wildly. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu, who had learned some martial arts, were born tough, and once showed their talents in punishing prisoners. Each of them could handle three or four robbers at a time. The women also exerted their full strength. As Ye Xiaoxian had said, they would die if they couldnt defeat the robbers or lost their food. It was a matter of survival. Therefore, these shrews cast aside their fear and fought all out against the male enemies one-to-one. As young as Baoyang and Baofeng were, they had the advantage in nimbleness. Through perfect cooperation, they could deal with an opponent. It proved to be an exhausting battle, but they won in the end. The robbers were shocked at their defeat. Those they confronted were four women, a group of kids, an old man and only two strong men, but they were totally discouraged by these peoples unthinkable ferocity. After handling the threat, the family didnt dare to stay there much longer. They raced onwards through the forest until they saw the blue sky and bright sunlight. Only then could Ye Xiaoxian heave a deep sigh of relief, and she then felt her arms and legs had be terribly limp. The other women also felt so scared after the event that their hands shook involuntarily while holding bowls of water. Only Old Mr. Xiao was in the mood to yell noisily, I told you we should stay in our vige! Its lucky that they were just a few weak refugees. What if we meet some real bandits? Were rooted in our homnd. If we die out here, our ancestors wont let our souls go back again! However, no one answered him. ... Chapter 190 - Meeting Squire Liu Again

Chapter 190: Meeting Squire Liu Again

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Travelling across Wuyang Mountain, they came to an open in. They had a wide view from here, bringing everything into focus. This eased their tension to some degree. However, the ce was dotted with an unusuallyrge number of people. Some were taking a rest, while others were walking back. Ye Xiaoxian wondered why they had returned to the dangerous mountain. But after all, no one wouldmit robberies in public. Therefore, she suggested having a rest here and filling their empty stomachs. Their hearts were still fluttering with fear after their hair-raising adventure. A rest would help to calm their nerves. They unrolled the mats and began eating some solid food. They were now totally listless, lying or sitting on the mats and losing hope for the future of their journey. The kids who had been chattering excitedly were just like withered flowers at this moment. Feeling their depression, Ye Xiaoxian tried to inspire them. I know youre tired, but this is normal for an escape. Do you know what an invaded city is like? I learned from books that corpses will be strewn everywhere. Some families will diepletely and some will have only one or two members left. Itll do us no good staying in our vige. Its our good fortune that were all healthy and safe. Even if we really get into trouble, we can die together. Anyway, we must unite as one and share joy and sorrow together. Im convinced that we can ovee the difficulties through our joint efforts! However, her words set almost everyone off weeping. Except for Old Mr. Xiao. He had beenining the entire way, but nobody cared about what he said. His words were as trifling as farts and as insignificant as croaks. Ye Xiaoxian suspected that she had said something wrong. But as she understood it, a general would encourage his soldiers in just the same way. The tougher the situation was, the braver they needed to be. Otherwise, they would defeat themselves before suffering any real setbacks. After a moment of embarrassment, she heard Wong Mudan sobbing, Youre right. Ive never fought so desperately. But from now on, I wont fear bandits anymore. Win or lose, Ill fight to the bitter end! Chen Ju nodded in tears. Xiao Tieshu said, Little Ye does much better than me in nning for our future. I...oh dear! Its right to let her lead us all this way. Little Ye, we will follow you for the rest of the journey. Xiao Tongshu agreed with him. Ive never heard such brave words before. Well, Ive made up my mind. I will fight with my life rather than wait to die! Ye Xiaoxian was amazed by their words. She hadnt expected that her words would not onlyfort but inspire them. I say these things more often from now on, she thought. Their morale boosted, they recovered their appetites. Pleased to see this change, Ye Xiaoxian gave out the rest of the food for them to eat. Anyway, she could make food another time. Suddenly, Xiao Baofeng cried, Sister Ye, that looks to be Miss Liu and her father! Really? Ye Xiaoxian was doubtful. Liu Qianqian should have been far away by now. But then, she spotted a group of carriages. Its the Liu family! However, they were going the opposite direction. Now losing their initial vigor, they looked extremely down and had even stronger depression showing on their faces than the Xiao family did. Seeing Ye Xiaoxian, they stopped in a tired manner. Ye Xiaoxian asked, Whats wrong? Why are youing back? Why arent you heading to Zhengwu county? Has something happened there? Liu Qianqian answered with sadness, Im afraid that Zhengwu county has been sealed off. There were countless refugees at the entrance. Some have waited for two days, but the gate is still shut for them. We also waited for a whole day in vain. The bastards in the county are afraid that we will upy their domain, consume their food or cause panic there. What? the Xiao family eximed in chorus. Li Hongmei asked, Then where can we go? Squire Liu replied from the carriage, Anywhere else. The people in Zhengwu county wont let us upset their peaceful life. After all, they are far away from the war. Are there any other ways to get across the county? Squire Liu said, Perhaps, but it is likely to be an untrodden path. Its not worthwhile to take the risk. We might be killed by bandits or beasts before we can starve to death. The Xiao familys morale dropped immediately. The steamed buns were no longer as appetizing. Ye Xiaoxian asked, What do you n to do next? Return to Qinghe county? We cant tell whether it has been invaded or not. Squire Liu shook his head and said, We cant go back there. Now we can only go northwest to Baoning city. Its a vast expanse of opennd featured with deserts, so it has no clear borders. We could set up tents there and raise cattle. The thought of a barren, sandynd soon discouraged everybody. Xiao Tieshu said with bad timing, But you may be blocked again or confront bandits or gangsters halfway. The air froze immediately. He realized his foolishness and returned to his seat. However, Squire Liu looked at him with interest. I remember you were a constable in the government office. Are you a good fighter? Well, I have strength, Xiao Tieshu replied. Squire Liu kept asking, Did you pass Wuyang Mountain? Did you meet any robbers? Of course. Eight robbers! They rushed out suddenly, but we defeated them. Squire Liu was surprised. But how? We are a big family with a dozen members, so it was only a small problem for us. Squire Liu said, We also confronted five or six strong robbers and were almost robbed. Fortunately, our servants tried their best to fight against them and Zhenbo also helped a lot with his martial arts. Liu Qianqian nodded and said, Yes! My mom and I were scared to death at that time. But our people outnumbered the robbers and finally beat them back. Without hesitation, Xiao Tieshu said, If you had waited for us, you wouldnt have had to fight so hard. Its always safer to go in greater numbers. This was exactly what Squire Liu was thinking. Smiling, this shrewd man said, Shall we travel together from now on? This way, we can take good care of each other. Xiao Tieshu said, But we cant keep up with you. What does it matter? Now that we dont have any rtives in the northwest, what difference will it make when we get there? We can just move slowly. After all, safety is the most important thing. Squire Liu was such an astute man. He had shaken off the Xiao family at the beginning for some reason. They might have be a burden if his rtives in Zhengwu county wouldnt take them in. But the situation had now changed. The danger encouraged him to form an alliance. The Xiao family was the best among their few options for allies. As an old saying went, there was strength in numbers. No one would be so rash as to attempt to rob such an overwhelming group. To show his sincerity, Squire Liu said, Can we join you in taking a rest? We still have plenty of rice and flour in our carriages. Why dont we set up a pot and cook some porridge? We need energy to get us across Wuyang Mountain. Now that Squire Liu was generous enough to provide food, Ye Xiaoxian decided to ept his invitation to give him an out. She volunteered to cook. While cooking porridge, she also added some diced bacon and corn into the rice. The slight luxury evidently enriched the taste. Since the people hadnt tasted meat for days, a bowl of congee was enough for them to feel great happiness and forget their tiredness. Then, Ye Xiaoxian began making some solid food such as stuffed buns and cakes. In this situation, the storability of food was much more important than the taste. People tended to eat more if the food was delicious, so it became necessary to reduce its appeal. But solid food also needed to contain enough calories. Basic grain foods couldnt satisfy ones stomach or replenish ones vigor. It was better to mix some flour with wheat, which could guarantee enough energy and carbohydrates. Less salt was used in order to avoid causing greater thirst. While she was doing this, all the others focused their attention on her hands. To their surprise, the coarse flour turned into delicate handicrafts in her nimble fingers. From flour to paste and to snacks, shepleted the whole process in one go. Her culinary skills were still remarkable under these limited cooking conditions. She used pots as hearths and lotus leaves as cutting boards, and she could bake without an oven. Her cooking skills showed great flexibility. Now that they did not need to hurry, they watched her cooking step by step, fascinated with what they saw. To enliven the atmosphere, Squire Liu kept praising Ye Xiaoxian. Little Ye is not only clever but also ingenious. I know shes an outstanding cook, but Im still surprised by her capabilities in such a situation. Feeling his sincerity, the Xiao family forgave him for not helping them and turned topliment Ye Xiaoxian. After the meal, Ye Xiaoxian evenly distributed the solid food and they all epted it readily. Squire Liu asked Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu to shift their things from the carts to his carriages. This way, they didnt need to pull the carts anymore. Chapter 191 - Doomed in the Wilderness?

Chapter 191: Doomed in the Wilderness?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio After the carts went empty, Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu felt more than rxed. Squire Liu suggested throwing away the carts to help save strength, but the two men felt it too extravagant to do so. They only needed a little strength to set the wheels rolling. Since Li Hongmei was still unskilled in driving, Squire Liu sent a servant to help her. That was why she could settle herself inside the carriage now. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju werent willing to sit anymore. They would rather walk with their husbands than stay cooped up with numb feet. As they went past Wuyang Mountain, they were high alert in case any robbers might jump out again. But no one stopped the swarm this time. If they met any refugees heading for Zhengwu county, Squire Liu would remind them, Fellow-vigers, the county has been sealed off. Dont waste your time waiting outside or youll starve to death there. Some refugees didnt believe what he said and continued on their initial route. Some who were persuaded otherwise asked him where he nned to go. He told them he would go northwest where they would be weed by one city or another. To go there, the crowd must again pass a small town where they would turn west to Baoning city. It was located between Qinghe county and Zhengwu county. Huddled refugees in rags filled the town, most of them looking very miserable. Squire Liu asked a family, Hows Qinghe county now? One of them replied with a sigh. Hexin county has been captured and now enemies have besieged Qinghe county. Almost nobody is there now. s, the war has really screwed our lives up! Another refugee warned Squire Liu not to go back. Qinghe county might be captured at any moment. Youd better go as far as you can because the imperial court is grabbing men for military service. Although its ourmon responsibility to protect our country, well just be courting death in a leaderless battle. Hearing that, Squire Liu urged his people to head for Baoning city as fast as possible. They would pass Dinghe county and Daan county before they arrived there. Apart from the gates, they could enter the counties via mountain roads. This was not so for Zhengwu county, however, which was situated on the central ins with itswork of rivers. Therge group then began hastening northwest. The farther they went, the greater the misery that filled them. Some had escaped early, but they were now starving to death and could only beg on the roads. Some were on the verge of death, lying feebly on the ground. Some adults held their bony kids in their arms, wailing and begging. Gripped tightly by a mournful mood, Ye Xiaoxian tried hard to focus only on her driving. Their food was not much considering the long journey. Besides, if she gave a beggar a bun, others would definitely swarm them for more. They didnt have enough food to be charitable. They could only defend themselves at this moment. After walking a long way, Squire Liu stopped in front. Ye Xiaoxian thought to herself, Does he want to be a good samaritan and give alms? He asked people to gather around him before saying with leadership, Friends, our food is not much. Although these refugees look pitiful, were also facing the same misery. We have both elderly parents and young kids to care for, so we must protect our food well. Its not the right time to be charitable. Our food is our own. Its will not be stolen. If anyone wants to rob us of our food, we must beat them away! No one objected. If they were merciful at this time, they would starve themselves to death. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu discarded their carts and stayed alongside the carriages with clubs. If any refugee approached, they would threaten to beat them. Taking a deep breath, Ye Xiaoxian fixed her eyes ahead and tried to ignore the poor men. Frightened by the tragic scene, Wong Mudan and Chen Ju got on a carriage and held the food in their arms tightly. Out of sight, out of mind. Chen Ju asked in a whisper, Sister Wong, can we really turn a blind eye to those poor refugees? Wong Mudan replied, We cant save many of them. Even if we help them today, they cant survive another day. We must protect ourselves first. Dont worry too much. Just follow what Squire Liu told us. In the other carriage, Xiao Baofeng had been sitting silently and Xiao Baocheng was gripping a rolling pin. The refugees became less after two days, but the corpses increased dramatically. The dead bodies blocked their way from time to time. Since winter hadnt yete, flies buzzed around them rampantly and the smell was terrible. Some corpses had started rotting with their eyes, mouths and noses horribly deformed. Wong Mudan, Chen Ju and Liu Qianqian were so scared by the sight that they cried. Ye Xiaoxian covered her nose and mouth with a handkerchief and encouraged her horse to go faster. Another mountain appeared in front of them. Since the ancient roads were low on the mountain, their carriages could also get over it. However, dangers always lurked in a ce upied by beasts and bandits. Squire Liu decided to take a rest at the mountain foot and let all the people eat and drink to refresh themselves. Once going up the mountain, they would press on without letting up. He added, You must pee or shit in advance. I wont stop to let you do this on the mountain. By then, you can only hold it in or do it on yourselves! Then, he let the people wash their hands in groups. Men and women went separately. While Ye Xiaoxian and Liu Qianqian were squatting behind a tuft of grass, Liu Qianqian suddenly let out a scream. A dead body! She pulled her trousers up immediately and jumped away. Ye Xiaoxian looked down only to find a rotten corpse in the grass. Uncontrobly, she began to vomit. They lost their urge to pee. The mountain roads were steep and winding. They needed to pull the carriages uphill and prevent them from charging downhill. The towering trees along the roads provided perfect cover for evildoers. It was hoped they would be desperate refugees rather than fierce brigands. But luck was not on their side this time. As they heard a rustling in the forest halfway along the road, a dozenrge men rushed out with broadswords. It was without doubt that they were bandits. The two families gasped involuntarily. It was unlikely that they could defeat such enemies with not only strong bodies but also daunting weapons. Were they doomed to die out here in the wilderness? The viins pounced at them at once, offering no negotiation. The servants of the Liu family tried to fight against them but failed. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu also joined the battle. They could just about manage to fight one-on-one at first, but they were soon defeated. A merciless sh caused Xiao Tieshus shoulder to bleed, which scared Wong Mudan so much that she fainted. Ye Xiaoxian also panicked. Well, this is in no way a satisfying time travel. Im neither a member of a rich family nor a princess in the imperial pce, and I havent feathered my nest. Am I going to die in this wilderness and share the fate of those rotten corpses? Her first instinct was to run away, but there was nowhere to go. Arge wood on her left and a cliff on her right forced her to face her doom. Noticing a bandit rushing towards her, she defended herself with a horsewhip which was immediately sliced into two pieces. As the man raised his broadsword again, she heard Li Hongmei and Xiao Baofeng crying out her name. She couldnt escape her doom this time, so she immediately closed her eyes. However, nothing happened to her. She neither ached nor bled but only heard a tortured scream. She then opened her eyes to find the bandit lying on the ground with a sword through his chest. In the blink of an eye, another two robbers were killed. The other bandits all stopped to figure out what had happened. In an instant, they got their answer. A carriage carrying two young men dashed up from behind them. One of them was standing on the canopy and the other sitting inside the carriage. Ye Xiaoxian became excited as she recognized them. It was Fengsheng and Li Chengru! Chapter 192 - rmy from Baoning City

Chapter 192: Army from Baoning City

Ye Xiaoxian knew how formidable Li Chengru and Fengsheng were. After showing up, they leaped out of the carriage and darted nimbly along the trees until theynded unexpectedly in front of the bandits. With several swishes, the bandits copsed before they could defend themselves. Every sh proved neat and fatal, striking their throats and hearts. They gave out ast breath, blood springing out from their broken vessels. The scene was bloodcurdling, but the country folk had be quite numb to all the death around them. Instead, they felt fortunate that it was the bandits who had died, not them. Ye Xiaoxian was the first toe to reason. She said, Is anyone hurt? Check the people around you! A servant from the Liu family was badly wounded by several shes. His heart had been prated by a sword, blood streaming down even under the bandages. His life gradually withered until hey still on the ground. Slightly bruised, another two servants had stemmed their bleeding. Tears burst forth as they watched their sacrificedpanion lying dead. Helping and encouraging each other all this way, they had believed that they would be safe by the time they arrived at their destination. However, things turned out contrary to their wishes. One of them had left halfway. Xiao Tieshu had some two-centimeter-deep wounds in his leg and shoulder and Xiao Tongshu was injured on his arm. Fortunately, they could continue with the journey after dressing their wounds, which were not life-threatening. Ye Xiaoxian walked up to Fengsheng and Li Chengru and wanted to thank them for saving her life, but Squire Liu interrupted andplimented them on their superb martial arts. Fengsheng made a monosybic sound in reply while Li Chengru simply neglected him. When Fengsheng had begged Squire Liu to save his master, this selfish man just gave him some unhelpful money. It was Little Ye who helped them at that time. So, Fengsheng turned to her and asked with concern, Mrs. Ye, are you alright? You were almost killed! She smiled and said, Im fine. Thank you for your help! By the way, why are you here? He heaved a sigh and replied, A phoenix in distress is worse than a chicken. We nned to go to the capital through Zhengwu county, but the gates were closed even to us. The guards thought we were posing as bigwigs. She was amused. How could you be impostors? Country folk dont have skin as fair as yours. He said, Oh, youre making fun of us! She nced at Li Chengru who held a poker face the whole time and gave up greeting him. She turned back to Fengsheng and asked, Where are you going next? Baoning city. We have a...well, a rtive there, he replied. What a coincidence! Were going there, too. she said. Actually, she wanted to invite the two men to go together but didnt say so. Their journey might be lengthened from 10 to 20 days if they joined therge crowd. Just then, Squire Liu said, Fengsheng, Mr. Li, why dont you join us? This way, we can take good care of each other. We are friends, arent we? I need your help this time. But Fengsheng had no say in this matter. Its up to my master. Squire Liu turned to Li Chengru and begged, Mr. Li, as you can see, we have elders and children in our group. Without your help, we cant make our destination. Please help us! In return, we can also share our food with you! Surprisingly, Li Chengru had a look at Ye Xiaoxian and thought of the porridge she had cooked. Their solid food had been consumed two days ago and money proved useless in this survival situation. Therefore, they had to go hunting in the mountain, which dyed their journey. Ye Xiaoxian was confused about why he looked at her. Does he want to ask my opinion? She said casually, You can go with us if you dont mind. To her surprise, he nodded immediately. Squire Liu and Fengsheng were pleased about their cooperation. The others were even more so. With these two master-hands, they wouldnt fear bandits anymore. Fengsheng missed the porridge so much that he couldnt wait to ask, When can we eat porridge? She soon understood it was for her food that they agreed so readily. After we get through the mountain and find a suitable ce to have a rest. ... When they were setting off, Li Chengru noticed the Xiao family huddling together in their carriage and said to Fengsheng, Ask those kids over here. After a while, Baofeng and Baocheng got on the carriage and sat with him. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju could finally stretch their legs and Xiao Tieshu could also have a rest in the carriage. The considerate act brought the Xiao family much convenience. ... Baoning city. The news that Hexin county was taken had reached Li Chengyi. Xiao Baofeng also learned about that. This meant that Qinghe county was the next target. Xiao Baoshan was anxious to rush back to his family. But he was keenly aware of his inability to save them alone. Only by beating back the enemies could he protect those he cared for and loved. But however uptight Li Chengyi and he were, the reinforcements hadnte yet. As such, Qinghe county was bound to be captured. Xiao Baoshan suggested that Li Chengyi muster the nearby forces and he himself could lead them to defend the county. Every second would count at this critical moment. But Li Chengyi hesitated over this advice, as it wasnt a trivial matter to him. If he failed, he would still be a good prince who was concerned about the country and the people. But if he made it, he would be regarded as a scheming man whose intentions had been distorted by some low characters in the imperial court. He would be suspected of being a traitor who let the enemies in and pretended to beat them back so that he could contend for the sovereign position again. Remaining firm in his proposition, Xiao Baoshan knelt time after time to persuade Li Chengyi. He said, I was once a general. Even though I was framed, defamed and hunted, I still try my best to protect the country and the people. As a prince, you shouldnt turn a blind eye to those struggling lives. Please dispatch troops to protect them! Due to his persistent begging, Li Chengyi was finally persuaded. With limited forces in Baoning city, they had to deploy more from nearby ces and draft more able-bodied men. On hearing the news, many refugees signed up immediately. If they joined the temporary army, they could obtain food andnd in return. These refugees needed shelters desperately after arriving there, and this was a chance for them. A fortnightter, Xiao Baoshan led the medley to Qinghe county. The army was trained as they marched forward. More refugees joined it along the way, lengthening the line to an impressive degree. ... Ye Xiaoxian and the other people were still halfway to Baoning city. Thepany of Li Chengru and Fengsheng greatly eased their tension. To take care of the wounded, they took a longer rest during the day. Two dayster, they reached Dinghe county. Located in the northwest, it was a small ce with only two streets. No one was on guard at the gate, so everybody could go in and out freely. There were inns in the county, but their amodation prices were unaffordable for poor refugees. They scattered around the county begging or robbing to support themselves. It was no wonder that Zhengwu county didnt let them in. Morality was not that important for a starving refugee. Besides, Dinghe county was very poor. Since the refugees came in, the local government would cook two pots of porridge every day. Each refugee could get a small bowl of porridge which couldnt satisfy their stomach at all. Ye Xiaoxian and her group settled themselves at an inn after entering the county. Money was all they had at this time. Ye Xiaoxian had taken all her savings with her. As for Squire Liu, money was thest thing hecked. Li Chengru and Fengsheng could also afford the amodation. After such a long time, they could finally sleep on beds, eat around tables and have warm baths. The women of the Xiao family slept on a wide bed. After bathing, they copsed on the bed. Wong Mudan said, Only now do I believe the mostfortable thing in this world is taking a warm bath before having a good sleep! Chen Ju said, My water became horribly ck after I took a bath. Ive never been so dirty! Li Hongmei echoed, Yes, yes, so did mine. Unfortunately, I suspect that I have lice in my hair. Though silent, Ye Xiaoxian shared the same feelings. What a tragic time travel! Fortunately, she had a warm bed to rest on. The carriages, loaded with their possessions, were taken good care of by the innkeeper. Now, she could finally have a sound sleep. After chatting a while longer, they soon slept like logs. It was close to noon when they woke up. Ye Xiaoxian learned from the innkeeper that troops had passed the county in the morning. They had been dispatched by the sixth prince from Baoning city. Chapter 193 - They Dont Know Who You Are!

Chapter 193: They Dont Know Who You Are!

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian asked, The sixth princes army went to help the south? Yes! I saw his designation on the gs. It is said that he has done many good deeds since he went to Baoning city. His acts of kindness have won him respect and support from the locals. The war is raging in the south, but reinforcements still havente. Even though the sixth prince is far away, he still dispatched troops over there. What a respectable leader he is! Hearing that, quite a few people in the hall began discussing the topic. Some said that the sixth prince wouldnt have dispatched the troops because he did not have the forces to rival the enemy. However, a new and formidable general assured the prince that he could defend the county. Li Hongmei was surprised. Really? Can a good general do the work of thousands of troops? Xiao Tongshu said, Of course! A bad general will waste a powerful army. In contrast, apetent general will make full use of his soldiers strength by giving tactical instructions. Li Hongmei eximed, Awesome! Yes, awesome! Just then, another man said, This general is drafting soldiers along the way. I saw many refugees joining the army in the morning. The sixth prince will give subsidies to their families in return, so the people are very grateful to him. I can tell from their expressions that they are resolute to retake their homnd. Some other people also joined the army. What prospects do men have staying in such a humble ce? Theyd rather fight on the battlefield to serve the country. As long as they survive, they can earn an officials sry as well as a good job. Xiao Tongshu and Li Hongmei didnt have the slightest doubt about it. One of their ancestors got a job in the government office after leaving the army and his descendants could also work as constables. This was of great benefit for future generations. The general reminded Ye Xiaoxian of Xiao Baoshan. What kind of general was he? Li Chengru said he was once a brave hero in battle before he betrayed his country. Is he escaping arrest? Or has he gone to the hostile country? Li Hongmei also thought of her son. If Baoshan hadnt turned traitor, would he be leading the troops now? Oh dear! Life is so ironic. ...After the Xiao family finished their meal, Li Chengru and Fengsheng also went down for breakfast. Knowing that the troop had left the county, Li Chengru flew into a rage. He med himself for getting up toote, or he could have gone with the army and joined the battle. He wanted to ride a horse and catch up with the army, but Fengsheng grasped his arm tightly. Young master, they dont know who you are and they wont believe what you tell them! Dont be over-confident! Li Chengru soon felt discouraged. It was true that he had not brought a token to show his identity and the gate of Zhengwu county was also closed to him. He was a nobody now. It was likely that he was just a stranger to this general. Only after meeting the sixth prince in Baoning city could his identity be confirmed. Only then could he make any contribution to his country. Li Chengru was too angry to have breakfast, but Fengsheng managed to coax him to eat some steamed buns. ...After noon, the Liu family and the Xiao family gathered with the two young men again. Squire Liu was reluctant to leave. The county provided them with not onlyfortable amodation but also delicious food, tempting him to settle down here. Now that the troops had gone to stop the war, he might enjoy a period of peace here. He had enough money to buy a house in the suburbs where he could start life anew. But Ye Xiaoxian didnt advise him to do so. She said with a smile, The locals here hate strangers. Youre an easy target for evildoers because you look so high-profile with these carriages. Thendlords here may also charge you many fees. How much money can you give them? Squire Liu asked, You mean you still want to go? She replied, Of course. Didnt you hear about the sixth princes achievements in Baoning city? If hes a virtuous ruler, hell treat us well. As long as we pull together, we wont be bullied by the locals. Li Chengru interrupted, The sixth prince is a trustworthy leader. She asked, You know him? He cast a disdainful look at her. Im not like you who only care about material things. What I pay attention to are national affairs. The sixth prince is such a famous figure that everyone should know him. She replied, You live in luxury. What you see and hear are indeed national affairs. But were just ordinary people who have to struggle for survival. How could we have time to concern ourselves with the country? He muttered, Short-sighted! I can support my family, but what about you? Now that youre so concerned about our country, why dont you do something practical? Who do you support? Who do you protect? she asked. I... Her words hit home and rendered him even more fretful. It was true that he couldnt protect anyone. As a quarrel was about to happen, Squire Liu immediately smoothed things over. All right, its nothing to argue about. Dont let this trifle end your friendship. Arent we discussing whether to go or not? I decide to go with you. We can look after each other along the journey. He was so intelligent that he soon made the right judgment. A mountain tiger was likely to be teased by a dog. Likewise, he might be bullied in a strangend even though he had money. Even in the 21st century of a booming economy and a flowing poption, quite a few locals might be hostile to strangers. Therefore, she wouldnt be able to settle down until she found a ce which was inclusive of non-locals. However, Old Mr. Xiao was reluctant to leave. He had been sitting in the carriage all these days and food was also served to him. In general, he was evenzier than the emperor. But he had beenining the most all this way, muttering about how dangerous the journey was or how unptable the food was. Now the luxury of sleeping on a bed made him mor again, Im not leaving! Xiao Tieshu suppressed his anger and said, Dad, didnt you hear what we said? Let me tell you again this is not the right ce to settle down. We have to keep moving forward. The old man wasnt persuaded. Dont fool me. I know you have enough money to stay here longer. As long as you find a job here, you can take good care of me. His words infuriated his whole family. Xiao Tongshu said, Dad, listen to me. The locals are not friendly to strangers. Well be harassed and bullied if we stay here, so we must find a more peaceful ce. The stubborn old man replied, I understand all you said just now. The soldiers are going to fight against the enemy and reinforcements will soone. When the enemy are beaten back, we can then go back home. The house and the farnd will still be ours. Li Chengru sneered. Youre so simple-minded. The farnd will be reallocated, so yours may be given to others at that time. Besides, how do you know who will rule the county? To consolidate his power, the new ruler will enve you to recover high productivity. Can you endure that at your age? The mode was just like distribution ording to work. People in a production team had to earn work points which represented how much they could gain. Ye Xiaoxian didnt want to lead that kind of life. The status of businessmen was very low in ancient times. If they went back to the vige, there might be no positions for businessmen anymore. She was in no mood to coax Old Mr. Xiao and just said, Grandpa, you can stay here if you want. But we can give you only one or two silver taels. There will be no more if you use them up. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu also gave up reasoning with their father. They had grown tired of it after all these days. Xiao Tieshu said, Dad, weve all decided to go and wont stay here for just you. Its up to you whether toe with us or stay here alone. Xiao Tieshu echoed, Im with my brother. You, you... Old Mr. Xiao coughed out of anger. He turned to ask Xiao Baofeng, his kindest grandson, for help. But the boy evaded the look, which dashed hisst glimmer of hope. Seeing this, Wong Mudan and Chen Ju hugged themselves with pleasure. Humph, silly old man! This is a lesson for you! ...In the afternoon, Ye Xiaoxian bought some rice, flour and beef jerky in this small county. The farther they went, the less fresh vegetables they could eat. It was always windy and dusty there, and the meat was mainly beef and mutton. Ye Xiaoxian found it hard to get used to such changes. But actually, she had been eager to enjoy thendscapes and scenery of the west. Now, this was an opportunity for her. The beauty here could always induce fantastic reverie and left a deep impression on its visitors. After full replenishment, they began moving west. Ten kilometers away from them, Xiao Baoshan was leading the many troops in marching to the south. He looked determined on a fine horse, his eyes piercing and daring. Chapter 194 - he Savior Was Xiao Baoshan

Chapter 194: The Savior Was Xiao Baoshan

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan recruited many refugees to his army along the way. When they approached Qinghe county, the army had grown to four times its original size. The new soldiers were responsible for provisions and weapons. The more experienced would fight on the front line. Xiao Baoshan had been searching the crowd for members of his family. But this was such a hurried journey that he couldnt pay attention to all the people around him. When he reached Qinghe county, it had been captured the day before. Therefore, he let his people camp outside the county before figuring out a way to break in. During this period, some newly escaped refugees also joined the army. Knowing that the army would retake the county, they couldnt help crying out loud and venting their grievances. The enemies are so cruel. They not only rape the women but also hurt children who are only a few months old! The thought of such inhumane scenes made them furrow their brows deeply. Xiao Baoshan asked, I heard that a lot of people escaped after learning the news? Are there still many in the county? A refugee replied, Only half of us escaped. Most thought it safer to stay in the county because the reinforcements would soone to help them. Some couldnt afford a long journey. It was dangerous both to stay and to leave, so they decided to try their luck here. It was more eptable for them to die in the county where they were rooted. Xiao Baoshan kept asking, Do you know who is still in the county? Quite a lot, like the Wong family. Theyre so unfortunate. Their house has been upied and the people have be servants to the enemy. Some of them may have been killed. Xiao Baoshan became even more restless. Did Xiao Baozhu escape or stay with Squire Wong? She was so stubborn that she might not have left. If so, did Li Hongmei and Little Ye also stay? Even if they escaped the county, were they still alive? He couldnt help worrying about it because there were so many corpses along the way. As a war-seasoned general, he soon calmed himself down and made a battle n in the barracks. The n was based on a full understanding of the enemys situation. Hongyan was a small ind country. Its people were better at naval battles and slightly inferior in horsemanship and archery. Therefore, a quick attack would work well on them. Then, he had to figure out a perfect battle formation to retake the county. Although he had arge troop, most people didnt have war experience. Some might be afraid of using swords or of killing people. Therefore, it was necessary to boost their courage before the battle. He had to provoke their anger and give them absolute determination to win for their invaded country, for their deceased families, and for their lost homnd. After raising morale, he would lead the soldiers in breaking into the county. His n was perfect. As soon as the furious soldiers broke through the gate, they smashed all resistance and advanced victoriously. The majority in the county were ves who werent willing to work for the enemy. Seeing the army, they immediately seized the opportunity to fight back and disclose the enemys battle n and positions. Within a few days, the county had been miraculously saved from the misery. Xiao Baoshan went back home, but he found nobody there. The house smelled badly of liquid manure. Some quilts and a small pot were missing. They must have escaped. Then, he headed for the Wong family. It appeared a total tragedy. Squire Wong had been killed, some maids hadmitted suicide after being raped, and Qin Qingqing and her baby had also died of dystocia. Xiao Baozhu was gone. Nobody knew whether she had escaped or died. In the house were only Schr Wong and several strong servants who were kept alive to cook for the enemy. Badly upset by the overnight changes, Schr Wong looked rather pale and haggard. He was dispirited, silent and soulless. Xiao Baoshan didnt have time to ask him anything before he went on fighting. Soon after he led the army into Hexin county, he recaptured it, again using his flexible strategies. ...The imperial court. When the news reached the pce, the ministers began a heated discussion. A minister said, Isnt he a traitor? Why did he fight against the enemy and put the disturbances to an end? Is he treacherous or actually loyal? Another minister said, Xiao Baoshan led the troops under the sixth princes banner. He must have escaped to Baoning city and worked for the sixth prince. Otherwise, he wouldnt have so many forces. So although the sixth prince is far away from the imperial pce, he is still a good prince who is concerned about the country and the people. There was a pause, then the state preceptor sneered. But why did the sixth prince let Xiao Baoshan lead the troops? Everyone knows Xiao Baoshan is a traitor. What rtionship do they have? The prime minister said, There is no proof that Xiao Baoshan is a traitor. We only know that he survived while all the others died in the war. Maybe thats why he feels ashamed to go back and so wanders around. Now that theres turmoil in the south, its reasonable for him to lead the troops there. We should ask him back for a thorough investigation once the war is over. Humph! The state preceptor was disdainful. The military might of Hongyan is so negligible that any general can defeat their troops easily. Besides, our reinforcements are also on the way there. Why does he take the trouble to lead the troops at this time? Does he seek to grow his army in order to attack the capital? The other ministers fell into silence. Just then, the drowsy emperor asked a question as if he had just woken up. State preceptor, what should we do next? The state preceptor replied, I think we should let our reinforcements deal with Xiao Baoshan before its toote. If hes a traitor, hell be a great threat to the peace of our country. The emperor seemed to fall asleep again and didnt answer. The prime minister objected. Will the people in the south allow us to kill Xiao Baoshan? Hes their savior and there are many refugees in his army. If we kill him, the south will fall into chaos. The state preceptor said scornfully, So what should we do? Wait for him to build up his army and attack the capital one day? Several ministers rallied to his support, iming that they should kill Xiao Baoshan to avoid a bigger disaster, and the prime ministers proposal was gradually forgotten among the voices. ...In a private house. Li Chengkun, the third prince, again met secretly with the state preceptor. He still maintained a poker face. His eyes were as deep as the ocean without any ripples. No one knew what he was thinking. Inparison, the state preceptor looked very anxious. Your highness, the situation isnt in our favor. We should deal with Xiao Baoshan and the sixth prince sooner. Humph! I didnt expect Li Chengyi could cause such a stir in the northwest. If we dont stop this, more and more people will support him. Quite a few ministers may think he can rival you to be crown prince, although they dont say it. Fortunately, your father doesnt handle government affairs now. Otherwise, he would have asked the sixth prince back to the pce, and you would have had to confront a new threat. The third prince carefully boiled the tea step by step, as if he wasnt listening. The state preceptor said, Your highness, I have a suggestion. Dont you have a spy in the pce? I think its time to do something to your father. I mean you can falsify an imperial edict and put poison in his medicine. Then, youll be... The third prince fetched two cups and poured tea into them. He pushed a cup across to the state preceptor and asked, Who do you think can rival me in this imperial court? The state preceptor thought about it and replied. Nobody. Youre the best since the fourth prince died. The others are just so-so. The seventh prince, Li Chengyi, is intelligent, but hes too naive and one-track-minded. Hes not steady enough to be a leader. The third prince said, No hurry then. Lets wait for a while longer. But we cant keep Xiao Baoshan alive anymore. ...Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions finally reached Daan city. The northwest was unlike the central or the southern areas where roads could guide people to their destinations. The northwest was vast, with many mountains and rivers. No roads were built there and it usually took them two days or more to pass a mountain, as they were not familiar the terrain. But after all, they had reached Daan city, and were closer to their destination. As they moved forward, they could see barrennd and a few houses made of y, as well as more and more Mongolian yurts, cattle and sheep. Seeing non-locals, herdsmen would be alert to herd the livestock to another side. Also made of brown y, the gate was closed. Many refugees had gathered in front of it. Squire Liu couldnt help but ask, Whats wrong? Whats wrong? The city wont let us in again? Have wee here in vain? It took them almost two weeks to get from Dinghe to Dahe. There was not much food left. Weary after a long journey, they were dying for a warm bath after they entered the city. But Ye Xiaoxian suspected they wouldnt get to bathe because water seemed scarce in this area. A refugee saw Squire Liu sitting in a grand carriage and said subserviently, We can enter in batches. Its said that the city is overcrowded with people, so we have to queue up to avoid causing problems. Knowing that they could go in, Squire Liu sighed with relief. But the refugee added, Be patient. Ive been waiting for two days. Squire Liu was surprised and discouraged. Two days! Chapter 195 - You Must Be Unhappy, Right?

Chapter 195: You Must Be Unhappy, Right?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Now, they had to wait patiently for the gate to open. Unlike Zhengwu county, the local government required the refugees to queue up in order to enter. Every individual or family had to take a bamboo stick with a number on it from the guards. One was then allowed in if his number was called. The Liu family and the Xiao family got a stick respectively. Li Chengru and Fengsheng also obtained one before waiting outside. Situated at high altitudes, Daan county was known for strong sunlight and fierce winds. Some refugees said it was hot in the daytime and also cold in the evenings, even if they had cotton quilts. Therefore, a fire was necessary to keep them warm at night. There were no forests or firewood to be found nearby, but they could collect some cow or horse dung to make fires. Someteers were reluctant to burn dung. Old Mr. Xiao was the first toin. Why are the locals here are so dirty? How can we burn dung? Think how smelly it will be! Those who arrived early exined, Youll feel really cold in the evening. The dung is not stinky as long as it is dried. The locals even use it to cook, so its not a big deal. Old Mr. Xiao didnt agree. Even if Im freezing to death, I wont use dung to keep warm. Some other people were also hesitant about it. Ye Xiaoxian stood out and said, Dont be so childish. The temperature here varies greatly between day and night. Its too hot in the daytime and too cold in the evening. Wed better collect some dung before it gets dark. Baofeng, Baocheng, Baoxue and aunts, please follow me to fetch some. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju were still hesitant. The dung must be even more smelly when burned. They used to raise pigs, so they knew how smelly pig dung was. All the vigers wouldin about it if they set the foul-smelling dung on fire. Ye Xiaoxian asked, Would you prefer the cold or the smell? Even if you dont fear the cold, you should consider your children. Baoyang and Baoxue are very little. Can they withstand it? Wong Mudan and Chen Ju were finally persuaded. They used the theft-preventing clubs in the carriages to pick dung and brought it back on wooden boards. The Liu family also feltpelled to do the same. Otherwise, they might really get sick being in the cold. It would be so embarrassing if they froze to death rather than being killed or starving. Only Li Chengru and Fengsheng remained motionless. Li Chengru wouldnt go to fetch dung in any case, but Fengsheng, who was inferior to him, had to join the other gatherers after a while. He was quite smart this time. Since it needed a lot of dung to make a fire, he told Little Ye that he wanted to share the campfire with them and would give them the dung he gathered. Ye Xiaoxian agreed without hesitation. These two young men were her saviors, and because of them, she didnt fear bandits anymore. After collecting all afternoon, they had plenty of dung, and waited until the evening to burn it. Old Mr. Xiao kept an exaggerated distance from the dung and looked away. Then, they went to get some water. Although the ce was arid, windy and dusty, water could be found under the grass. The rivers were always changing course here. As long as there was a grasnd, there would be many little streams. But if it were a desert, there would be no hope of finding water. The locals always followed the water to survive. If the water in one ce receded, they would move elsewhere. The people leading such a life were called nomads. Squire Liu asked those who had arrived early where to get water, and he learned that there was a spring nearby. However, people had to queue up for it because it was such a small flow. Ye Xiaoxian asked Xiao Tongshu to get a bucket of water because she needed to wash her hands and cook some porridge. ...When everyone sat down for a rest, Ye Xiaoxian decided to walk around. Daan county was a demarcation line between deserts and grasnds. Although the greenery had faded slightly, Ye Xiaoxian knew there would still be some potherbs. What they had mostly eaten these recent days were solid foods and only a small amount of vegetables, which caused constipation. Although there were potherbs and even fruits in the forest along the way, no one had dared to dy the journey or enjoy any food near the corpses. But the situation was different near Daan county. Nobody would starve to death here. Some kind locals would give food to the starving refugees. Therefore, nature remained intact here. In a modern restaurant, potherbs weremon dishes for the rich who were cloyed by the fat of thend. Quite a few potherbs were from grasnds. After walking a few steps, she found some dandelions which could be used as traditional medicine. They were slightly bitter, but they would taste different if used to make cakes. She picked some dandelions and carried them in her clothes. Several minutester, she found some fragrant bittersweet endives. They could be eaten raw or used in soups and sds. It was also noted that they had the effect of relieving the umtion of excess yang energy. More surprises popped up as she walked on. Finally, she spotted some precious balloon flowers. They could be eaten as vegetables and had incredible medicinal uses. They were useful in helping to reduce fluid umtion in the lungs, relieving sore throats, as an expectorant, and for discharging pus. In short, they were perfect food in dry weather. However, she forgot to bring a bag to carry her big harvest in. As she was about to take off her outerwear to wrap the potherbs in, she heard a faint rustling behind her. She turned around only to find Li Chengru standing there. Why are you doing here? she asked. Just getting a breath of fresh air! he replied grumpily. This amused her so much she beganughing. Why are youughing? he asked angrily. She keptughing as she replied. Despite being rich and handsome, I guess youre not happy at all, right? His face fell. Why do you think Im not happy? Im happier than anyone! Oh? Then why are you maintaining such a poker face? Youre tough with everyone, but your heart is soft. Youre actually kind and ready to help others, though you wear an unfriendly expression all the time. So you must feel very confused inside. You seem not to care about other people while still wishing to be epted by them, right? After she had finished her analysis with a smile, Li Chengru became furious. You think you know me that well? You dont know who I am at all! She said casually, Its my fault then. Im not familiar with you, so dont be angry if I get it wrong. Its bad for your health to throw tantrums. You... He became even angrier. He just wanted to get away from the refugees and get some air, but then he saw her slim and graceful figure on the grass. It held him spellbound for a while. It must be because he had been with disheveled refugees for so long that he could admire a vige woman. It would be considered illegal for someone to attempt to read his mind in the capital. How dare a vige woman form conjectures about what kind of person he was! Li Chengru left angrily. Ye Xiaoxian shook her head as she watched him leave. Such a pampered rich young man was too arrogant to joke around with in any dynasty. She went on picking potherbs. ...When Ye Xiaoxian got back, Xiao Tongshu had fetched two buckets of water. She used a basin of water to wash the potherbs and let others build an oven and make fire. There wasnt enough water for her to fully clean the vegetables. She could only guarantee that there was no sand left in the potherbs. Since it was the first time that Wong Mudan and Chen Ju has set fire to dung, it took them quite a while to make fire. At the same time, Ye Xiaoxian went to knead the dough. Some potherbs were used to cook soup, and she also added minced meat and salt into the boiling water, making the soup taste light and fresh. Some of the potherbs were chopped and added to the dough, which was made into cakes. Everyone got arge cake and ate their fill. The Liu Family felt fortunate to have gone with Ye Xiaoxian. They hadnt expected they could have such delicious meals rather than starving to death during their escape. Their only regret was that they hadnt eaten any vegetables. The Liu family keptplementing Ye Xiaoxian as they enjoyed their meals. With the great chef here, they only needed to make fire and provide cooking utensils and ingredients. When Li Chengru saw her picking potherbs, he doubted whether they were edible or not. But as soon as he sipped the soup, he started to feel veryfortable, as if he were drunk, and his anxiety disappeared. What a rare delicacy! Then, he took a bite of a fried cake with satisfaction. It was so golden-yellow, crisp and appetizing that he wanted to eat one more, but he was embarrassed to say so because nobody got a second one. He began observing Ye Xiaoxian. Since she went back, she had been busy washing, cutting and cooking and she had done every step wholeheartedly. In contrast, when she teased him, she was like a rogue. He gazed at her so intently that he failed to avoid her eyes when she suddenly looked up. He felt rather embarrassed, but it was toote for him to look away. To his surprise, she didnt reveal any hint of shyness. Instead, she gave him thest cake and joked again. Just tell me if you want to eat. Look at you, youre almost drooling. Li Chengru was totally defeated this time. Chapter 196 - Accompanying Her to Answer the Call of Nature

Chapter 196: Apanying Her to Answer the Call of Nature

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio It was indeed cold at night. The wind was fierce and the air was freezing, but fortunately, they had dung with which to make fire, otherwise they would find it impossible to get through the night. The Liu family gathered around one fire and the Xiao family, Li Chengru and Fengsheng sat around another. They felt warm facing the mes, but their backs were terribly cold, so each of them wrapped themselves up with a cotton quilt. Ye Xiaoxian also felt chilly. Although there was plenty of dung, she suspected that the fire could notst for a whole night. Sitting or lying down, they huddled together for warmth on the mats. Exhausted after working all day, Ye Xiaoxian soon fell asleep. She was awakened in the middle of the night by the urgent need to pee. She felt it might be because she had drunk too much soup in the evening. When she got up, she found everyone sound asleep and even snoring, except for Li Chengru and Fengsheng who were keeping watch for thieves or beasts. The Xiao family was responsible for being on guard before midnight and these two young men after that. As such, it was now after midnight. Fengsheng asked her in a whisper, Mrs. Ye, youve woken up? She nodded. After she got out of the quilt, the chilly windpelled her even more to relieve herself. Fengsheng kept asking, Why dont you sleep longer? Do you suffer from insomnia? She said immediately, I need to pee. Fengsheng was left speechless. Why is she so blunt? Is she really a vulgar woman just as young master said? Fengsheng looked away at once. At the same time, Ye Xiaoxian crept softly away from the mat to avoid waking up Li Hongmei. But for the campfires, everything was gruesomely dark on this open field. She didnt know where to go to relieve herself. The magnificent western scenery was covered by a mysterious atmosphere at night. In fact, it looked rather terrifying to her at this moment. But the urge to pee needed to be handled right away. Gritting her teeth, she plucked up the courage to walk into the darkness. She walked cautiously so as not to step on either the fresh animal dung or the defecations of other people. She didnt have another pair of shoes to change into. After she walked for two meters, she heard footsteps approaching from behind. Someone was following her. She turned around only to see a tall figure. Who is it? she asked alertly. Then, she heard Li Chengrus voice. Dont you want to relieve yourself? Just go ahead and do it. I wont look. Ye Xiaoxian was surprised. Has hee to protect me? Though it seemed strange, she felt safer with hispany in the darkness. After she took a few steps, she heard him saying, Move to the right. There is, well, something dirty in front of you. She guessed it was a pile of shit. A man of his status wouldnt say such a vulgar word. In any ancient cultured family, shit, piss and fart were taboo words. Ye Xiaoxian moved to the right until he said again, Just do it there. When she was about to unfasten her belt, she asked alertly, Li Chengru, youre not watching, right? Of course Im not! he said impatiently. Then, she took off her trousers and peed with great relief. She even felt a cold shiver of refreshment at the end. But she was embarrassed letting Li Chengru hear her. Anyway, it was better than holding onto a full dder. She pulled up her trousers and walked back. A vague figure could be seen leading her way. Following him, she soon went back to the campsite. Li Chengru sat straight beside the campfire as if nothing had happened. He reminded her of Xiao Baoshan who also sat or stood upright like this. When shey back on the mat, she roused Li Hongmei slightly. But Li Hongmei just turned over and fell asleep again. However, Ye Xiaoxian found it hard to get to sleep. She had a look at Li Chengru, but he seemed absorbed in his night watch. I should say thank you to him or give him more to eat tomorrow. ...The dung ran out at about four oclock. Soon, the people were all awakened by the coldness and began regretting not having collected more dung in the daytime. When the following day dawned, the chilliness faded slightly. Then, the sun began to rise. Fengsheng was the first to notice the sunrise. He pointed to the east and eximed, Look at the sun! Everyone turned to the east and saw the red sun rising up from the grasnd horizon. Since it was at high altitude, the sun looked much bigger than the one they had seen on the hillside in Qinghe county. It gave a gorgeous show as it rose. Ye Xiaoxian was touched. Gorgeous! The others were also amazed by the beautiful scenery. Xiao Tieshu said, I heard from the old folks that beyond any mountain is always another. The world is so big that it contains many sceneries that we havent seen. Most of the time, were trapped in a ce just like fog in a well. Xiao Baofeng began reciting a verse. From boundless desert, lonely a straight smoke rises; Oer endless river, a round sun sinks. Ye Xiaoxian reminded, Baofeng, this poem is about sunset, but what were seeing here is sunrise. Could you recite another one? Xiao Baofeng said, Ive only learned one poem about the sun. Old Mr. Xiao couldnt appreciate the beauty at all. He said in a surly manner, Its just the sun! Come on, time for breakfast! Xiao Baofeng asked him, Grandpa, do you think the sun here is the same as in our hometown? Old Mr. Xiao replied, Of course not. One big and the other is small. Xiao Baofeng and Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help tittering. Li Chengru also responded with a sneer. Wong Mudan asked, Baofeng, I also dont know whether they are the same. Youre a Confucian apprentice and have learned a lot at school, so can you tell me the exact answer? The boy replied with a smile, Theyre the same. Chen Ju asked, Then why does this one look bigger? He was stumped. Why do they have so many questions? Ye Xiaoxian knew why, but she didnt want to show off. If she answered this question, there would be more questions to follow and she would be bombarded. She would rather just prepare breakfast. ...There was no dung or any other substitutes nearby. As a result, they were forced to eat a cold breakfast. Missing the warm delicacies so much, they were not interested in solid food at all. At about nine oclock, the gate was opened. Then, some guards walked out and began calling numbers. Those who hade two days ago entered the county one after another. At the same time, some locals were leaving the county. They were vendors selling cheeses, beef jerky, mutton jerky, steamed buns, and also ox and horse dung. Thanks to this, the refugees didnt need to collect dung anymore. Besides, the dung had been dried and processed so that it was odorless and easy to ignite. Squire Liu immediately took out his money to buy plenty of dung, hoping to have a longer sleep in the evening. The Xiao family and Li Chengru bought the dung, too. They also spent money on jerky and raisins which they could eat as snacks when feeling bored. The nearby refugees all cast an envious look at them. Squire Liu gave some beef jerky to the guards. With any luck, a little loss might bring great rewards to him. As he expected, a guard told him in the afternoon that there was another spring somewhere a little further away. The water flow wasrge, so he didnt need to queue. Besides, the water was clear and he might catch some fish. After Squire Liu brought this news back, they set off to find water and fish, and came back with several buckets full. ...On the third morning, everyone was beaming with joy because they would be able to enter the county that day. While they were waiting, another batch of refugees arrived. One of them recognized Squire Liu and greeted him respectfully. Squire Liu was confused. You know me? Yes, of course. Youre such a famous figure in Qinghe county. Everyone knows you! But Im just a night watchman, so its normal that you dont know me. the man said. Squire Liu asked, When did you escape the county? The watchman replied, About 20 days ago. 20 days ago? Squire Liu asked in surprise. It took us a month to get here and it took you only 20 days? The watchman said, We dont have any elderly or children to look after. Even my youngest son has grown up. Besides, our journey has been quite smooth. We have carriages and we dont waste time on Zhengwu county. We came directly here. Squire Liu asked, Didnt you meet any bandits? No. The sixth prince has dispatched troops to suppress both enemy and bandits, so we havent encountered any danger. He then added, But it was strange that one day, I had a distant look at the general and found him to be quite familiar. Familiar? Squire Liu was surprised. But then, he burst outughing. You mean you know the general? Arent you just a watchman? Hearing Squire Lius banter, the watchman became uncertain. There are so many people who look alike in this world. I must have got it wrong. Squire Liu asked with a smile, Who does he look like then? Chapter 197 - Xiao Baozhu Was Alive

Chapter 197: Xiao Baozhu Was Alive

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio ...The watchman hesitated. He remembered the generals appearance well. After all, the general looked just like Xiao Baoshan who was that tall and cold. No one would forget such a special man. But the watchman didnt want to be ridiculed as a boaster, so he decided to echo what Squire Liu had said. I must have mistaken him for someone else. How could I know such a great general? The Xiao family didnt take his words to mind. Just then, the guards called their numbers and let them into the county. Squire Liu gave the guards more beef jerky in return for their care and help these past few days. ...Xiao Baoshan had led the troops to Hexin county. The forces of Hongyan country were so week that they were annihted within three days. The locals left alive poured out of their houses to express their gratitude and praise him as the god of war. As a result, Xiao Baoshan and the sixth prince rose to fame overnight. At that moment, the reinforcements from the imperial court had just arrived at Zhengwu county. The leader of the reinforcements was Qian Qi, a fourth-ranked general in the imperial court. After he reached Zhengwu county, he received a letter saying that Xiao Baoshan had defeated the enemy with the sixth princes forces. Although he had known it was Xiao Baoshan who led the troops, he still thumped the table angrily after learning the news. Xiao Baoshan... Qian Qi had sent his people to find Xiao Baoshan, but he failed. The wanted man was missing; only his old mother and his newly-married wife were in the house. But these two women didnt reveal any information about him. Qian Qi regretted not kidnapping them before Xiao Baoshan went to the sixth prince for shelter and even became amander. Anyway, he would try every possible way to get Xiao Baoshan to show up. Now that the enemy had been driven back, he decided to encamp his regiments in Zhengwu county. Then, he wrote a letter to the imperial court, waiting for the next order. Xiao Baoshan owed him a debt that couldnt be written off. He had lost his brother, Qian Dong, in that war two years ago. He had believed all the people had died at that time, but then Xiao Baoshan proved to be the only one alive. Besides, it was said that this man had colluded with the enemy. Therefore, he must find Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan must give everyone an exnation! ...The capital. The news of Xiao Baoshans triumph had reached the imperial court. At that moment, the ministers were discussing what to do with him. The state preceptor and the prime minister represented two different camps. The state preceptor held that Xiao Baoshan had exceeded his authority. He, as well as the sixth prince, should be punished for dispatching troops without permission. The prime minister insisted that Xiao Baoshan was not necessarily a traitor. They should investigate the case again and ask Xiao Baoshan for an exnation after he came back. They couldnt put a good man in the wrong. He put forward the question that if Xiao Baoshan was a traitor, why did he beat back the enemy? All the ministers were then engaged in a heated argument. But the old emperor had be drowsy. In the end, the state preceptors party won the debate. They decided to let Qian Qi arrest Xiao Baoshan and bring him back to the court. ...After recapturing Hexin county, Xiao Baoshan let a deputy general and some soldiers guard the ce. Since the county wasnt the sixth princes fief, the forces couldnt station there for long. When a new governor took over control, all the soldiers had to retreat. Otherwise, some base people in the imperial court would try every way to defame the sixth prince. Xiao Baoshan asked the deputy general to handle the overall situation and the soldiers to help the locals rebuild their homes. Then, he led the troops back to Qinghe county. This time, he would inquire about his familys whereabouts from door to door. Qinghe county was in ruins, corpses filling the suburbs. People were wailing and weeping everywhere. Widows and orphans were struggling for the future of their lives. Xiao Baoshan brought these people together and provided them with part of the army provisions. Then, he headed for his home. The locals who hadnt escaped far were all back. The streets were not empty anymore. On his way home, Xiao Baoshan could see smoke rising continuously from two or three kitchen chimneys. He visited his neighbors one after another. They were all surprised to see he had returned. Of course, they didnt know he was the general who had beaten back the enemy. He said, Yes, Im back. Do you know where my family is? The first two families shook their heads. But the olddy in the third family told him, They must have escaped. I saw your whole family leaving at that time. My whole family? he asked. Including my rtives from the vige? Yes. They were here one evening. There were four adults, several kids and an old man who was always cursing. The next morning, they drove two carriages and pulled two carts away from here. So all my rtives did leave. He knew it must be Ye Xiaoxians idea. Although she didnt care about these rtives normally, she was the most reliable person in such critical times. Xiao Baoshan then went to the Wong family to see whether Xiao Baozhu hade back. The residence was dpidated, and had lost its one-time glory. The door was broken, thenterns were gone and there was only one stone lion left. As he walked in, he found the garden in a mess. The ornamental trees were crooked and twisted, the rockery copsed and the rare flowers had all withered. No servants could be seen. There was a dead silence. Just when he was thinking that no one lived here anymore, he found ady drawing water from a well in the backyard. As he walked over, thedy also turned around. Baozhu! he cried out in surprise. As soon as she looked up, the bucket of water suddenly fell to the ground from her hand. Brother Baoshan! After experiencing so much pain and suffering, she threw herself into his arms and began crying. Xiao Baoshan remained silent until his sister stopped weeping. I heard that Squire Wong and Qin Qingqing have died. Is it true? Is it only you and Schr Wong in this house? Xiao Baozhu sniffed as she nodded. Yes. Just him and me. Brother, I... Tears ran down her face again. Xiao Baoshans intuition was telling him that something bad had happened to his sister. She may have confronted the enemy. Baozhu, theres no hurry. Just take your time. As long as Im here, I wont let anyone hurt you, he said as he helped her to the flowerbed and let her sit on the edge. After a moment of sobbing, she finally told him what she had gone through. She that said she could have escaped with the Xiao family, but she chose to stay because the Wong family needed her help. After the enemy troops broke into the county, Squire Wong was killed, Qin Qingqing died in childbirth and Schr Wong immersed himself in endless sorrow. She loved Schr Wong so dearly that she decided to apany him from then on. However, he wasnt grateful to her at all. After the enemy had upied the residence, she took him to hide in a shabby house. While he was in a state of shock, she risked her life to fetch rice or noodles every day. She begrudged the precious food and gave most of it to him. But one day, she was found by two enemy soldiers who pounced on her and began ripping off her clothes. She was so frightened that she yelled out loud, begging Schr Wong to save her. He indeed came out of his room, but he left immediately after an indifferent nce. Her heart had frozen at that moment. She had watched him turn around in disbelief. How could he be so indifferent? Even a stranger would try to do something to save her. The moment of despair gave the enemy a chance to assault her. Just then, she came to reason and smashed a mans head with a brick she picked up from the ground. Fortunately or pitifully, she was saved by herself. What happened then? Xiao Baoshan asked. She replied with quivering lips, I was afraid they woulde again, so I took Schr Wong to another hiding ce. By then, I didnt know where to go and I didnt have the heart to leave him in danger, even though he was so cold-hearted himself. When the county regained its peace, I brought him back here. Xiao Baoshan asked, Do you still want to take care of him? To be honest, he didnt entertain any hope that she would go with him. She was such a stubborn girl who might stay with Schr Wong for her whole life. But to his surprise, she gave him a negative answer. No, I dont want to stay here anymore. It wasnt me who caused the Wong familys tragedy or his. Ive done everything possible to help him and I wont hold onto any illusions about him anymore. Love cant be forced. However much Ive tried, he still doesnt like me. Sister Ye and Qianqian used to say I was deceiving myself, but I didnt listen to them. Only that day did I realize Id been living in a delusion. Now I understand that only you, my mom, Sister Ye, and Baofeng are sincere to me. Brother Baoshan, I miss them so much! I want to see them again! Chapter 198 - Goodbye to Scholar Wong

Chapter 198: Goodbye to Schr Wong

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baozhu burst out crying again. Standing closer to her, Xiao Baoshan watched her with silent affection. She had finally realized her mistake. To be exact, her only fault was that she indulged too much in her delusion. When she calmed down, Xiao Baoshan said, But I also dont know where our mom and Little Ye are. She asked, Now that things have returned to normal, will theye back here? Can I see them again if I wait? He said, Its hard to tell. Perhaps they wille back but perhaps they wont. If they find somewhere livable, they might settle down there. I know Little Ye can live a good life no matter where she is. Helplessly, she asked, What should I do then? Do I have no chance of seeing them again? Her tears poured once more. She truly regretted not going with her family. What do think I should do? If you were me, would you wait here or go to find them? He answered without hesitation, Ill go to find them. Hearing that, she made up her mind immediately. Can I follow you wherever you go? Even if I cant meet up with them, Ill have you by my side. If you also leave me, then Ill be alone. He gazed at her for a while and nodded in approval. ... In the east of the residence was a shabby house. It was now scattered with some broken tables and chairs. But it had been a fine one in the past. Sunshine would pour through the windows in the morning, making even winter warm and cozy. Now, it was covered with a sorrowful atmosphere of family decline. The listless face on the bed was part of the heartrending sight. Xiao Baozhu entered the room and said, Yanbo. But he remained still. Having anticipated his nonchnce, she gave a wry smile. What a silly girl she had been to ce an ungrateful man in her heart. Yanbo, my brother is back. Ive decided to go with him, she continued. Schr Wong crooked his fingers imperceptibly and didnt move anymore. Suddenly, she felt a surge of bitterness exploding from her heart which hit her deeply. Maybe I should call you Schr Wong. You and your name have never belonged to me. I know you dont like me, but I like you very much. Ive pestered you for so long, but my affection could only affect myself. She wiped away her tears and continued, When I was assaulted that day, you didnt stand up and save me. I know in your eyes Im just a pile of shit buzzing with flies. You dont care whether Im alive or dead. You dont care whether Im happy or sad. Ive been so stupid! Ive done so much for you regardless of my reputation and my family. The man was still motionless on the bed. Xiao Baozhu had said all she wanted to say. I have to go now. I wont pester you anymore. Take care. Then, she closed the door slowly. A creak separated their two worlds forever. ... When Xiao Baozhu went out of the room, Xiao Baoshan asked with concern, Are you okay? Yes, Im fine. She sighed with relief. Im finally relieved. The world seems quite different now. Look, the sky is bluer than ever before! Xiao Baoshan smiled and stroked her hair gently. Good girl. Lets leave this ce then. Where are we going? she asked. He said, The army barracks. Army barracks? She was confused. But she still followed him out of the county to the barracks. She wanted to stop her brother. Why have wee here? Isnt he afraid of being arrested by soldiers? Just then, the soldiers around the barracks greeted him respectfully, General Xiao! General Xiao? Xiao Baozhu was totally bewildered. Her brother stood right before her and said, Baozhu,e with me. She followed his steps slowly. It was as if she was dreaming. There were many soldiers inside the barracks. Wherever Xiao Baoshan went, the soldiers would greet him respectfully and cast a curious look at Xiao Baozhu. But he didnt give any exnation. When they walked into a camp, a deputy general called Biao stepped forward to wee them. Xiao Baoshan said, This is my sister from Qinghe county. I want to take her to Baoning city. Please help me find a carriage. Got it! Biao replied. Only then did Xiao Baozhu let out a deep breath. Brother, what happened? How did you be a general after disappearing for a while? Am I dreaming? she asked. Xiao Baoshan thought for a while and let her sit down. Its a long story. I was a general before I went back to our hometown. But in a war, my troops were defeated and only I survived. After I went back home, I was mistaken for a traitor. Some people think the battle failed because I disclosed information to the enemy. Suddenly, everything made sense to Xiao Baozhu. I see! No wonder so many people said they want to take revenge on you. I heard that you even wrote a letter of divorce to Sister Ye. Xiao Baoshan didnt answer. She asked, Why are you a general again? Did the imperial court forgive you or let you redeem yourself? He replied with a smile, Not yet. Then, he told her all about what he had experienced in the past. After hearing his story, she became more than upset. So the imperial court still thinks youre a traitor? Did you dispatch the troops without the courts permission? Although I know very little about politics, I guess this isnt a trivial matter. Will you be doubly guilty? Maybe. But its my duty to beat back the enemy. I only do what I think is right. he said. She felt very restless and worried. You... But he gave her a reassuring smile. Dont worry. I will protect you and wont get you involved. At this moment, she felt as if she was sitting on pins and needles. For one thing, she was worried about her brother. For another, she was afraid that she would not be able to be with her mom, Little Ye and Baofeng again. ... After leaving some soldiers in Qinghe county, Xiao Baoshan led the troops back to Baoning city. Although he had recaptured two counties, he had no right to station the troop there. Otherwise, the imperial court would think he or the sixth prince was ambitious for the throne. At the same time, Qian Qi received a secret letter from the imperial court. After unfolding the letter, he was stunned by its contents. Does the imperial court really want me to do this? Must I attack Baoning city and kill the sixth prince and Xiao Baoshan? The letter exined that the sixth prince had shown his ambition by erging his army. He might pose a great threat if he attacked the imperial court to take the throne one day. Qian Qi stared at the letter for a while before he gave an order. Have everyone get ready. We will go west. ... At this moment, Qian Qis army was in Zhengwu county and Xiao Baoshans had just left Qinghe county. As such, it was likely they would meet in Dinghe county. If Qian Qi moved faster, he would reach Baoning city before Xiao Baoshan. Their defenses there would be the weakest, which would enable him to kill the sixth prince easily. Then, he would just need to wait for Xiao Baoshan to put his neck into the noose. However, his army advanced very slowly along an unimpeded official road. When it poured with rain, he even let everyone stop to take shelter. His deputy general was totally confused. In theory, the rain wasnt a big deal for the strong soldiers. Instead, frequent rests would consume unnecessary provisions. The way to Baoning city was very far, but the provisions might not be enough. But the deputy general didnt dare to ask anything and just obeyed Qian Qis order. ... Xiao Baoshan received a message halfway that Qian Qi was leading his army to Baoning city. Immediately, he told his soldiers to move faster. It rained heavily as they approached Dinghe county, but they did not slow down. Xiao Baozhu was sitting in a carriage and went with the troop. Biao was responsible for taking care of her. Only during the rest period did Xiao Baozhu have a chance to see her brother. But he was holding a stern face, lost in deep thought. His serious expression forced her to restrain her curiosity. One day, he suddenly asked her to follow Biao and listen to all that he said. If any idents happened, she could go with this man who would then protect her. Brother, what happened? she asked. Xiao Baoshan stroked her forehead gently. Its not a big deal. Dont worry. Just keep my words in mind. Brother, Im not a kid anymore, she protested. After experiencing so much in the Wong family, she was not that silly girl anymore. She was now steady, prudent and observant. She had learned how to read someones thoughts by their expressions. Xiao Baoshan still smiled softly. No matter what happens, I wille back to you. Look, although Ive left so many times, Im still back here again. Brother... When she wanted to say something more, Xiao Baoshan reassured her. Baozhu, dont worry. Youll meet Mom, Sister Ye, Baofeng and me again. When? she asked. Soon! he replied calmly. ... When the rain came down in a torrent, Xiao Baoshan took off his armor and wore a raincoat as well as a bamboo hat. Then, he mounted a tall, white horse. Biao looked very worried. Do you really want to meet Qian Qi alone? Chapter 199 - Venturing Alone into the Enemy Camp

Chapter 199: Venturing Alone into the Enemy Camp

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan nodded. Yes, I have no other choice. But even if the two armies meet, we wont necessarily lose. You dont need to meet with him alone. Hes so hostile to you. Im worried... Biao used to be a subordinate of the sixth prince. He knew everything about Xiao Baoshan including that had once saved the sixth prince and him from danger. Biao. Xiao Baoshan watched him and spoke earnestly. I dont want to see anyone else die. With any luck, I can save many lives. If I dont return, please help me to protect Baozhu and the sixth prince. By then, my battle n will help you to reach a draw with Qian Qi or even defeat him. Biao stared at this tough man with furrowed brows. Baoshan then raised his horsewhip and soon disappeared off into the nting rain. ... Qian Qis army was taking a rest at the foot of a mountain in Dinghe county. Although the rainstorm had turned to drizzle, he still did not continue on with the journey. That day, some soldiers saw the distant figure of a man riding in their direction on horseback. They took up their weapons, poised to fight. Xiao Baoshan approached them and said immediately, Im Xiao Baoshan. Tell your general that I want to meet with him. His name was well-known throughout the barracks. Even the lowest-level soldiers knew of him. A soldier left immediately to report the news to Qian Qi. At that moment, Qian Qi was reading a military book intently in a camp. He was slightly surprised to see Xiao Baoshan arrive there. But soon, he calmed himself down. He walked over to a rack of weapons and selected a broadsword. But then, he put it down and picked up a spear. After a moment of hesitation, he finally chose a rapier. After a while, Xiao Baoshan was led into the barracks. A row of bows and arrows greeted him at once, but he looked calm and fearless as he walked across to thergest camp. Separated by the archers, the two men stared at each other in the rain. There wasnt any trace of fear in Xiao Baoshans eyes. In contrast, strong fury and otherplicated emotions were written across Qian Qi face. How dare youe here! Qian Qi shouted as he drew his rapier. Xiao Baoshan replied, I dont want to fight with you. I was hoping we could have a good talk. After that, you can kill me if you want. Humph! I know this is just your stalling tactic. Traitor. It was you who caused the deaths of so many two years ago. Why did you bother to beat the enemies back this time? Did you want to try and prove that youre innocent? I know youre erging your army to prepare for a second betrayal. Xiao Baoshan stared at Qian Qi for a while before he burst intoughter. He raised his head back andughed long and wildly. Shocked at this, the archers around him couldnt help backing away slightly. Xiao Baoshan, what are youughing about? Qian Qi asked. Xiao Baoshan stretched out his hands and turned to Qian Qis deputy general. You can tie my hands. Now that Im here, Im at your disposal and wont rebel against you. Astonished by his boldness, the deputy general obeyed and shackled him immediately. Xiao Baoshan said, Can you talk with me now? After a second of hesitation, Qian Qi pointed at his camp and let Xiao Baoshan in. The deputy general was still worried. He said, General, I can go in with you. But Qian Qi waved his hands in disapproval. No. Wait for me outside. Now that hes been shackled, I should meet him alone. I dont want to beughed at by others. ... Qian Qi gestured to Xiao Baoshan to sit down and poured him a cup of tea. Xiao Baoshan took the cup with his shackled hands. Thank you, he said. Qian Qi asked, What do you want to talk with me about? You want to stop me from attacking Baoning city? You should know I cant disobey the orders of the imperial court. But Xiao Baoshanughed and responded by asking, So thats why youre dying the journey? You dont want to attack Baoning city. Thats not what I mean, Qian Qi protested. Xiao Baoshan gazed at him and said, I know you hate my guts. You think Im a traitor and caused your brothers death. But I didnt betray anyone. Im just a survivor. Qian Qi was not convinced. Humph! Then why did everyone else die and only you survived? Are you a superman blessed by God? Besides, why didnt you go back to the capital and report that? Why did you go home secretly instead? What are you afraid of? Xiao Baoshan replied, Im not afraid of anything. I could survive because my men protected me with their lives. It was they who dragged me back from the verge of death. When I woke up, I just wanted to die with myrades. But I thought of my mother and decided to meet her onest time. After I went back, I fell in love with a girl who gave me new hope for life. She made me willing to live in obscurity. My life was so peaceful until I had to expose my identity to save my love. Qian Qi said in disbelief, But everyone in the capital says you colluded with the government of Beiqing. Otherwise, the enemy wouldnt have known about our military secrets. I know nothing about this. But I can swear on the lives of my entire family that Ive never betrayed our country! He was more than serious and sincere in saying this. Qian Qis deeply furrowed brows rxed slightly. Then why dont you go to the capital and ept the imperial courts investigation? he asked. Someone is spreading the rumor and making trouble out of nothing on purpose. Myrades have all died. Who can defend me? I dont want to court death. Besides, the one who framed me might have something to do with party-rted strife. The tragedy that year was not targeted at me, but at the fourth prince. Since I survived, Im their best scapegoat. Qian Qi looked at him with astonishment. Xiao Baoshan continued, We beating back the enemies is supposed to be a goo deed, but why does the imperial court send you to kill the sixth prince? Isnt it obvious enough that someone is plotting against me and the six prince? The sixth prince has been merely an insignificant figure far in Baoning city, but things are different after he dispatched the troop. He may get involved in the political strife again. Qian Qi, I believe youre a wise man, or you wouldnt dy the journey. Qian Qi fell into silence. What Xiao Baoshan had said was what he was worried about. He hated this man, but he wouldnt kill anyone without reason. Why did the imperial court want him to kill the sixth prince? When the south was overrun by enemy troops, the imperial court didnt offer help in time. It was the sixth prince and Xiao Baoshan who protected the country and the people. How could their good deeds be distorted into an act of betrayal? What would the southern people think about that? He asked, If you dont mean to rebel against the imperial court, why are you growing your army? Xiao Baoshan said, The soldiers were recruited just to handle the emergency. Most of them are refugees. Now that the war is over, Ill certainly let them go home. For one thing, Baoning city cant afford to feed so many mouths, and as well as this, its time for these people to reunite with their families. If youre free, you can go to Qinghe county and Hexin county to see for yourself. Many people there have escaped or died, so the counties are now almost empty. If they dont go back to rebuild their homes, there will be two more empty ghost counties in our country. Qian Qi was still hesitant. Xiao Baoshan urged, If you dont believe me, you can follow me back to our barracks. I can disband the army immediately! Suddenly, Qian Qi poured two cups of water and gulped them down. But if I dont kill you and the sixth prince, how should I exin this? he asked. Xiao Baoshan replied, You can just report the facts to the imperial court. Tell them our forces have been dismissed and that the sixth prince and I have no intention to rebel. If the imperial court still wants you to kill us, then... Suddenly, his gaze sharpened. You will know what kind of imperial court it has be. Qian Qi rose and turned his back to Xiao Baoshan in silence. ... At this moment, Ye Xiaoxian had entered Daan county. It was a small ce, even more remote than Dinghe county. However, there were many inns and stalls selling various local specialties. It was just like a tourist spot in modern times with few local people. Visitors would crowd this small ce during the peak season, while innkeepers had to wait at the doors idly during the off season. Most of the inhabitants here were businessmen from all over the country selling good such as tea and wool. Apart from them, some travel enthusiasts would also stay here temporarily. Longmen Inn in the west was a legend in this county. It was said to be an auction site. Many people would go there to buy or sell priceless antiques or scrolls about martial arts. Besides, the innkeeper was an extremely coquettish and morousdy. Many men were dying to feast their eyes on this beauty. None of Ye Xiaoxians group knew about this in advance. They went there just because it was big enough to amodate all of them, and their dishes were rtively cheap and delicious. When they arrived there, they were surprised at its eye-catching signboard and the houseful of guests. Only then did Ye Xiaoxian realize that Longmen Inn didnt only exist in television series. When they entered the inn, they didnt see the legendary coquettishdy. They were greeted by a waiter. Busy in his job, the waiter wasnt friendly to them, and he hadnt bathed for quite some time. You want amodation, right? A top-ssed room is... Oh yes, we dont provide woodsheds. He quoted them prices at once. Lots of refugees had arrived there recently, but some could not afford the amodation prices. They just wanted to find shelters like woodsheds to protect them from the elements. Chapter 200 - Longmen Inn

Chapter 200: Longmen Inn

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio The waiters attitude annoyed Li Chengru. We dont want woodsheds. What rooms do you have? The waiter replied impatiently, What kind of rooms do you want then? There are only two top-ss rooms, each two silver taels per night. A middle-ss room is one silver tael and a lower-ss room is half the price. Li Chengru thumped two silver taels down on the table and said, I want a top-ss one. Squire Liu ordered the other top room and Liu Qianqian a medium one. Ye Xiaoxian also wanted a medium one, which proved to be as stark as a vige hut. After all, a low-ss room was even worse. But Old Mr. Xiao stopped her from paying. Dont be so extravagant orpare yourself with the rich. Youre just a vige woman. We dont need to live as well as them. However, Ye Xiaoxian didnt like to put herself at the mercy of others. Besides, she paid with her own money, not Old Mr. Xiaos. So she raised her chin like Li Chengru and threw two silver tales onto the table. A medium room, please. As usual, the men and women lived separately. However, the inn allowed only four adults to a room. Children were free to stay with them. So Ye Xiaoxian shared the room with Li Hongmei, Wong Mudan, Chen Ju and Baoxue. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu thought it expensive. But they hadnt spent much money on the journey. They had brought food from home and Ye Xiaoxian, Squire Liu and Li Chengru had paid all the other fees. Thinking about this, the two men decided to order two medium rooms. In any case, they wanted to have a warm bath. ... Li Chengru was the first to go upstairs. When turning a corner on the second floor, he almost bumped into an enchantingdy. She was in her twenties and had an oval face, rosy cheeks, nted eyes and long ck hair cascading over her shoulders. Her fair right shoulder was bare, making her look even sexier. Im sorry, Li Chengru said indifferently before passing her by. But she groaned in a cutesy voice, Sir, Im hurt. She stroked her knee while giving him a d eye. Li Chengru knew he hadnt run into her and that she was obviously flirting with him. He said coldly, Im not interested in you. Get out of my way! Rather than being irritated, thedy continued flirting with him. Sir, why are you so angry? Im not asking you to be interested in me. I just feel hurt and cant walk. He asked, What do you want then? Sir, could you help me back to my room? she asked suggestively. But he pushed her away and said, Why dont you ask the next man for help? After saying this, he walked straight to his room without turning back. Just then, Ye Xiaoxian reached the second floor and saw the scene. Embarrassed, she moved aside slightly. This charmingdy must be the legendary innkeeper. Ye Xiaoxian learned from a movie that this coquettishdy wasnt so bad. She looked interested in all men, but all she wanted was money. Li Chengru, rich and handsome, was such a good target. Noticing Ye Xiaoxians gaze, thedy flipped out easily, What are you looking at, you ugly woman! Her initial gentle and coquettish attitude vanished into nothing. Ye Xiaoxian gave a wry smile. All right, Im neither a man nor rich. ... Jin Xiaoyu went back to her room, followed by a waiter. The waiter asked, Madam, as far as I know, that man is really rich. Of course. Jin Xiaoyu crossed her legs on a chair and gulped down a cup of water. Or he wouldnt resist my beauty. The waiter asked, Do we need to... He made a gesture across his neck. No. I can feel that hes excellent in martial arts. Lets wait a while longer. ... Ye Xiaoxian and her rtives went into a room with two beds. She and Li Chengmei shared one, and Wong Mudan, Chen Ju and Baoxue slept in another. They threw themselves on the beds at once. They couldnt wait to enjoy the luxury of sleeping on soft mattresses. Wong Mudan said, The room is so expensive. I dont want to go anywhere else and just sleep here for a whole night until we have to check out. Chen Ju said, Anyway, we dont have anywhere else to go. We are in the middle of a desert where bugs, snakes and lizardse out at night. Then I have a reason for beingzy. What about ordering some steamed buns for dinner? Id like to lie here and fill my stomach. Ye Xiaoxian smiled at this good idea. Wong Mudan seemed to think of something and said, Wow, did you see the flirtatious woman who ran into Mr. Li? I was so startled. Its hard to imagine what she will be like when shes old! Do you think she was from a brothel? Chen Ju asked. Suddenly, it urred to them that Li Hongmei used to be a prostitute. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju liked to discuss her background secretly, but it was not a good situation to mention this topic. Well, Hongmei, we dont mean that. Wong Mudan apologized first. Chen Ju followed immediately. Yes, we dont mean to hurt you. We just want to say that woman is too coquettish. Li Hongmei didnt mind it at all. I also feel shes too coquettish. But wed better not gossip behind her back. Someone may be listening on the other side of the wall. She was right. Their walls indeed had ears. No one could run such a big business alone. Jin Xiaoyu had trained quite a few spies and hatchet men who would monitor every customers conversation. After a while, a man reported all he had heard to Jin Xiaoyu. She sneered, Humph! Bumpkins! Just leave them alone. ... When the women were about to order some buns, a servant from the Liu family knocked on the door. He said Squire Liu wanted to have a roastmb for dinner, but it was too much for his family. So he decided to buy two roastmbs with Li Chengru and shared them with the Xiao family. On hearing that, everyones mouth began to water uncontrobly. Instantly, they jumped out of the beds and rushed down the stairs. On the first floor, Squire Liu had arranged two big tables. One was for his own family and the other for the Xiao family, Li Chengru and Fengsheng. Some steamed buns and local specialties had been served on the tables. The mutton wasnt ready yet. So they nibbled on the buns, saving their stomachs for the best dish. After a long while, the roastmbs were finally put on the tables. Thembs were no bigger than piglets. To their disappointment, the meat was not as crisp as expected. It seemed to have been braised rather than roasted. Some strong men beside them also ordered a roastmb. Seeing the miserable dish, they flew into a rage immediately. Waiter! Get out of here! A waiter came up to them and asked calmly, Whats wrong? Is the mutton braised or roasted? How are we going to eat this? a brawny brute of a man shouted angrily. The waiter replied casually, Using chopsticks or hands. You can eat however you like. Bastard! Take thismb away! Give our money back! The waiter said, You ordered a roastmb, so we gave you a roastmb. If everyone was like you, how could we run our business? Dont make me beat you! the man roared. As he was about to fling the table, Jin Xiaoyu flew down gracefully from a height. She had changed into a unisex suit, making her appear neat and spirited. But her voice was still sweet and soft. Sir, I heard that you dont like our mutton, right? It indeed tastes bad, the man replied. Jin Xiaoyu smiled brightly. If you dont like it, you can just throw it away or you can fight with me. If you lose, you can get out of here. If you win, I can give the money back to you. Is that okay? The man knew she was not a person to be trifled with, but how could he be scared of a woman? Better to fight than to lose face! But before he could select a ce to fight, Jin Xiaoyu was quick to strike. Then, everyone present was impressed by her valor and nimbleness. Her moves seemed weak and soft, but they actually contained great power. In the blink of an eye, the man and hispanions were all beaten to the ground. She said coldly, Throw them out of here! They are not wee! The awesome sight came as a great shock to the two families. They decided to swallow the meat and pretend that they enjoyed it very much. Jin Xiaoyu turned to them with a bright smile. What do you think of the mutton? Squire Liu didnt dare criticize the mutton. He couldnt bear the thought of being thrown out into the dangerous desert. But Ye Xiaoxian said calmly, Can I use your kitchen? Chapter 201 - Her Mouth-Watering Roast Lambs

Chapter 201: Her Mouth-Watering Roast Lambs

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Kitchen? You also think our mutton tastes bad? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Ye Xiaoxian smiled and said, Daqi is such a big country that the ces vary greatly in fashion and tastes. We are from the south. On our journey, we found people in different ces have different tastes. Southern people prefer light meals, northern people enjoy wheaten food, and those in minds have heavier tastes, so they always add star anise or pepper in their dishes. These two roastmbs may be perfect for you, but were not used to their taste. I dont mean toin about them, I just want to alter them slightly in your kitchen. We can pay for the ingredients. Her exnation sounded polite and reasonable. Besides, she promised to pay for seasonings, which gave Jin Xiaoyu no chance to say no. Just then, Li Chengru also rose and said, We just want to livefortably here after a long journey. If you cant satisfy such a small requirement, we wonte here again. Jin Xiaoyu smiled and walked up to Ye Xiaoxian. How are you going to be with the twombs? Ye Xiaoxian replied, I need only an oven, coal and fire. Okay. Let me see how delicious theyll be. Jin Xiaoyu turned to a waiter andmanded, Help thisdy get thembs back to the kitchen. Ye Xiaoxian curtsied and said thank you before going to the kitchen. I must have be more courageous after being threatened with knives so many times. She would regret it if she remained silent. Twombs cost them ten silver taels which Xiao Tieshe and Xiao Tongshu had to earn for several months. It would be a pity if they spent a lot of money on an awful meal. That was why she nerved herself to protest. The kitchen was spacious. Standing around her were some waiters who looked as odd as she had seen in the movies. She knew they were not people to be trifled with, but they wouldnt hurt her as long as she was well-behaved. She put thembs on the grill and turned up the heat. Then, she began rolling thembs while sprinkling cumin on them. After all, this was a gangsters inn. Thembs were braised before being roasted casually. But Ye Xiaoxian knew how to make them tasty again. Soon, the oil began to pitter-patter on thembs whose skins gradually turned golden-yellow. The delicious smell filled the entire kitchen and spread to the dining hall. When the yellow became darker, she brushed some honey on them. Then, she sliced off a piece of meat and caught it with her mouth. It was crispy on the outside and soft inside, with a perfectbination of saltiness and sweetness. Done! She asked two waiters to help her get thembs out. A secondter, the mouth-watering smell permeated the entire inn. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt resist the temptation to look down from upstairs. Many customers gathered around Ye Xiaoxian begging her to reroast theirmbs and promised to give her money in return. She declined all of them. This was not her domain; how could she usurp the role of the host? At the same time, Squire Liu was beaming with joy. He had regretted ordering the roastmbs, but Ye Xiaoxian made everything worthwhile again. The meat was tastier than anything else he had tried. He praised her excitedly, Its our fortune to have the worlds best cook here. As far as I think, nobody can surpass you in cooking! Ye Xiaoxian said hurriedly, Squire Liu, we should keep a low profile outside. Besides, how could I rival the worlds top cooks? My cooking is not as good as you said. Squire Liu shook his head and waved his hands. Youre looking down upon yourself. Although Ive spent most of my life in Qinghe county, Ive been to many other ces and tasted various food. If you dont believe me, you can ask our distinguished Mr. Li. Hes young, but he must have been to more ces and have tried more delicacies than me. So Mr. Li, what do you think of Little Yes cooking? Li Chengru was stuffing his face with mutton. Although it had been spoiled by the cooks here, Ye Xiaoxian gave it a real taste of the roast. But he wasnt a man would easily praise other people. So he just nodded and said, Not too bad. He didnt have time to waste on talking. Otherwise, the meat would soon be wolfed down by the Xiaos. Just then, Jin Xiaoyu went down the stairs. She walked closer to Ye Xiaoxian and gazed at the honey-yellowmb. The meat had been almost eaten up, while tworge pieces ofmb skin were hanging over them. Can I have a taste of this? Id like to see what vor southern people like. Ye Xiaoxian guessed Jin Xiaoyu didnt like fat meat, so she sliced down a lean piece with crisp skin. As Jin Xiaoyu chewed it, her eyes lit up with satisfaction. But shemented, It tastes a little nd. Itll be better with some pepper. Ye Xiaoxian smiled generously and went on enjoying the meat. ... Having satisfied her stomach, Ye Xiaoxian ordered two buckets of hot water. The water here was so expensive that they had to share it. Although it seemed not that sanitary, they still felt fortunate that they could bathe. Wong Mudan called out loud in the bathtub, I wont go anywhere else tonight. Let me go to bed after having a bath. Being the first to finish bathing, Ye Xiaoxian fell asleep soon after sheid on the bed. In a daze, she dreamed about Xiao Baoshan holding a woman in his arms. Irritated, Ye Xiaoxian felt an urge to ask him why he divorced her and betrayed her. Just then, the woman turned around and gave her a smile of victory. Jin Xiaoyu? Ye Xiaoxian woke up with a start and almost bumped into Li Hongmei. Little Ye, are you all right? Had a nightmare? Li Hongmei asked with concern. Ye Xiaoxian nodded. What kind of nightmare? Li Hongmei asked. Ye Xiaoxian didnt answer, so Li Hongmeiforted her with a smile, Dont worry. Dreams are opposite to the fact. The more horrible they are, the more peaceful the real life is. Its true. If you dont believe me, you can ask your aunts. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju echoed with her immediately. Ye Xiaoxian smiled and pped her chest with relief. At this moment, Wong Mudan and Chen Ju had also finished bathing. After asking a waiter to get the empty buckets away, they copsed onto the bed and soon fell asleep. Chapter 202 - Arent You Tired?

Chapter 202: Arent You Tired?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian guessed that it was about eight oclock in the evening. It waste enough for people to get to sleep in ancient times. But as shey down again, she heard apuse and cheersing from outside. There seemed to be an event going on downstairs. ... At this moment, she was the only person awake in the room. The others had fallen into a deep sleep and wouldnt be awakened by even thunder. She tried to ignore the noise, but she failed. In fact, she felt quite refreshed after sleeping for a while. If she was not mistaken, this noise was probably a treasure appraisal event. She climbed out of the bed and watched the fun in the corridor. Even an ordinary bowl in this dynasty would be an antique in modern times, let alone the treasures that would be shown tonight. ... Ye Xiaoxian looked down at the hall packed with people. It was as if all the people had gathered below, except for the Xiaos. Jin Xiaoyu stood high on the stage to hold the event. It was obvious that the apuse was to wee her. When the cheers hadsted for long enough, Jin Xiaoyu gestured for everyone to quiet down. Full of heroic spirit, she began announcing the rules of the event. No one was allowed to sell fake goods here. If one was found to be a cheater, the inn would never wee him or her again. Although she looked flighty at ordinary times, she was more than severe on the stage with her zing eyes. Now that you all know the rules, lets start the event. After the sellers show their treasures, the buyers can bid for them. The highest bidders will win the treasures. ... Only then did Ye Xiaoxian realize this inn not only evaluated treasures but auctioned them. No wonder the dishes tasted so bad. The ce was more an action site than a restaurant or a hotel. ... The first seller was a big-eared obese man holding a chamber pot. All the people burst outughing at the sight of his treasure. Irritated, he roared, Stupid fools! Do you know where we found it? We found it in a mausoleum in Zhengwu county! Can you guess whose mausoleum it is? It belongs to a prime minister two dynasties ago! Such jade quality can only be found at that time. Someone scoffed, Even so, I wont buy a chamber pot. I wont use it to urinate or decorate my house. The fat man shouted angry, Short-sighted! If you pass it on to your descendants, it will then be something priceless. ... Ye Xiaoxian smiled at his words. As a tomb robber, he knew more about thew of historical development than most people. Jin Xiaoyu let a waiter hand the pot to a knowledgeable old man who turned it up and down for a while. Finally, he nodded to show it was real. But only one man bid for the pot, and the price he offered was merely 10 silver taels. The fat man felt disappointed at the result, but he still decided to sell it anyway. After all, a treasure could prove valuable only when it was sold. After that, another man went on the stage with a pearl hairpin. He imed that it was priceless because it was newly dug out from an imperial concubines mausoleum. Watching it from the distance, Ye Xiaoxian also felt it had superb quality, unlike those sold on the streets. In the end, it was sold at 80 silver taels. Ye Xiaoxian sighed slightly. This ce was like a ck hole that swallowed money. Just then, a man stood beside her. She turned around and found it was Li Chengru. He cast a haughty look at her. Why dont you go to sleep but stand here instead? She replied, I want to feel the happiness that the rich feel. Li Chengru snorted disdainfully. She asked, What do you mean? You despise the rich? I despise you who are scared by only 80 silver taels. It is not a ton of gold. he said. Ye Xiaoxian knew he was rich and might be the richest in the middle ss. But except for the royal nobles, who else could have a ton of gold? So she smiled and challenged, Yes, youre rich and you can afford many roastmbs. You... He seemed to be angry again. But she continued maternally, Our ancestors teach us not to show off our wealth. Even if youre rich, you should keep a low profile. Dont let the strangers know you have money, especially in thisplicated ce. His face fell. All right, you can question my wealth. But Im sorry that you may be scared to death when we reach Baoning city and meet the sixth prince. Youll know who I am at that time. ... Ye Xiaoxian watched the auction with great interest at first, but she soon got tired of this. The novelty wore off quickly. It was simr to visiting a museum where one could only see the treasures without touching. Eyes would get easily tired after watching things of the same style. She yawned and said, I have to go to sleep now. Bye. Bye, he said. ... That night, Ye Xiaoxian woke up many times. She got up very early the next morning. None of her rtives were awake. She climbed out of bed, nning to have a walk downstairs. When she went downstairs, she saw a cook working in this inn. He greeted, Hello, kitchen goddess! Youre so early! She replied faintly, Im ttered. If youre free, why dont you give us some instructions in the kitchen? he invited. Of course, she wouldnt say yes, especially when there were few people awake. Anything could happen in the kitchen of a gangsters inn. But she couldnt reject directly, or she might offend this man. So she said jokingly, My lessons are very expensive. The man said sarcastically, Just say no if you dont want to. Just then, an overly sweet voice sounded from the upstairs, Oh? How much then? Ms. Chef? Jin Xiaoyu had also got up. Regardless of any courtesy, she tied the ribbons of her dress as she went downstairs. To avoid looking hidebound, Ye Xiaoxian didnt curtsy this time. She simply greeted, Good morning, madam. Im used to getting up early, but why are you so early, too? Arent you tired after a night watching treasures? Jin Xiaoyu said softly as she threw a teasing look at Ye Xiaoxian. Chapter 203 - Will You Come Here Again?

Chapter 203: Will You Come Here Again?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian smiled and asked, You were so busyst night. How did you divert your attention to me? You stand out so much from the crowd. I saw you chatting andughing with that handsome man and you looked quite happy, Jin Xiaoyu said as she approached Ye Xiaoxian. Then, she blew a breath at Yes face. Ye Xiaoxian backed away to avoid it and said, Perhaps he and I were not chatting but ridiculing each other, just like were doing now. But why do I feel he likes you? Please dont make irresponsible remarks. How could he like a vige woman like me? Ye Xiaoxian didnt want anyone to gossip about her. Vige woman? You? Jin Xiaoyu looked Ye Xiaoxian up and down before she burst outughing. Then, she put a hand on Ye Xiaoxians waist and said, You just dont let yourself shine. Theres a wild cat inside you. If you release it, you may be more adorable than me. Ye Xiaoxian didnt like Jin Xiaoyus way of talking, even though she was not a man. She pushed away her hand and said, Please watch how you conduct yourself. Instead of getting angry, Jin Xiaoyu went on with her teasing. Youre good at cooking. Were you a cook before? Did you learn by yourself? I used to run a restaurant and can make some dishes. Thats it. Ye Xiaoxian said. Oh, what happened then? You closed the restaurant because of the war? Jin Xiaoyu asked with interest. The restaurant was closed before the war broke out. Perhaps my dishes were not delicious enough. Ye Xiaoxian replied. Hearing that, Jin Xiaoyuughed and swayed like a wildly, though Ye Xiaoxian didnt know what was funny in her words. Afterughing for a long while, Jin Xiaoyu asked, What about staying here to be my cook? I can pay you a decent sry. Ye Xiaoxian declined politely, I have a big family to look after, so Im sorry I cant stay. You mean those bumpkins who came with you? Jin Xiaoyu raised her brows and said, I know how to judge a person, so I can see you are different from them. Although they are your rtives, they dont have your disposition or knowledge. Of course, Mr. Li and a little boy are exceptions. Ye Xiaoxian said seriously, However different we are, we are a family. No one can change this fact. Jin Xiaoyuughed again. Then, shended her fingers on Ye Xiaoxians chin. Well, I wont force you to stay here. I just want to make friends with people who are as intelligent, brave and principled as you are. Will youe here again? Ye Xiaoxian replied, I dont know. Perhaps. Jin Xiaoyu crossed her arms and said, Okay, Ill wait for you. ... Except for endless dunes, there was not much to appreciate in the desert. Sometimes one might see one or two trees that swayed like gs in the wind. Ye Xiaoxian had once heard that the desert nts, though usually small, had their roots deep in the sand. They were struggling stubbornly for life in a harsh environment. Involuntarily, she associated the nts with herself, Xiao Baoshan and many other people she knew. They were living a rough life just like the desperate desert nts. But they had a firm target, and that was to survive. Growing their roots deeply, they won a space in the desert against wind and rain. This was the first time in recent days that she thought of Xiao Baoshan. At the very beginning, she hated him because he left secretly and let her face the misery alone. But after knowing what happened to him, she began to believe he had been trying to protect her. She swore to herself that she would get an exnation from him if she could see him again. If he hadnt fallen in love with another woman. ... Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions checked out at noon. When they were about to leave, Jin Xiaoyu even went downstairs to see them off. Youre wee here next time! Youre the most special guests that Ive ever met. It was my honor to entertain you here. ttered, Squire Liu gave her a generous tip. She turned to Li Chengru and said, Mr. Li, youre the most distinguished and handsome man Ive ever met. But Li Chengru ignored her directly. She then looked at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian curtsied and turned around. She didnt want to hear Jin Xiaoyu speaking. But Jin Xiaoyu still said loudly, Ms. Ye, Im waiting for you here. Next time youe here, I can introduce you to a handsome man, a type you will like. ... Ye Xiaoxian was rendered wordless. The Xiaos secretly cursed Jin Xiaoyu for her coquetry. When they stepped out of the inn, another batch of customers came to check out. Jin Xiaoyus affectedly sweet voice sounded again, Wee here next time! Youre the most special guests that Ive ever met. Its my honor to entertain you here. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help sneering. They were merely passing travelers to her. ... Dinghe county. After a thorough discussion, Xiao Baoshan was quick to fulfill his promise to disband the new army. He did so without dy. There was much work to do to break the troops, including allocating food, writing up official documents and making certificates. The whole processsted for seven days before the army was finally disbanded. Qian Qi watched the soldiers leave with disappointment, batch after batch. Finally, there were only the six princes initial forces in the barracks. The troops were now quite fragile. Qian Qi knew he would seed if he attacked the sixth prince and Xiao Baoshan at this time. But he couldnt allow himself to do this. Born in an upright family, he would neither let off a single traitor nor kill any good general. During these days, he had been busy spreading the news that the sixth prince was a benevolent man and that Xiao Baoshan had fought bravely for the people. This time, the imperial court had no reason to kill them. Qian Qi reported the fact to the imperial court and suggested stopping the killing to avoid peoples suspicion or panic. Now, he had to stay in Daan county to wait for the imperial courts reply. But Xiao Baoshan advised him to go back to the capital and help his family members out, in case they got involved. Besides, he had to do it before the report reached the capital. After his brother had died, there were only his aged mother, his brothers wife, and his own wife and children in the family. These were the people he swore to protect with his life. Chapter 204 - The Qian Family

Chapter 204: The Qian Family

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Qian Qi said, If I leave, who can lead the troops? I dont think the imperial court will hurt my family. Xiao Baoshan exined, I used to think the same thing, but now I realize that the imperial court haspletely changed. Although there are still a few good officials, their power cant rival the those who are corrupt. Qian Qi was hesitant. Xiao Baoshan suggested, If you trust me, you can write a letter home for me to show your rtives. Then, I can escort them out of the capital safely. If the imperial court believes you, they wont hurt your family. But if they want to threaten you using those you care about, you will then know how corrupt the imperial court has be. Qian Qi asked, If I get my family out, they will have a reason to say Im inciting mutiny. Xiao Baoshan smiled. Then you can only kill us and let the war spread to border areas. After thinking for a long while, Qian Qi finally epted Xiao Baoshans advice. Xiao Baoshan then led a dozen elite soldiers to the capital with a letter written by Qian Qi. The situation was so urgent that they hurried directly there without stopping. ... The capital. Li Chengkun and the state preceptor met again at the secret location. While it kept drizzling outside, they were ying Go face to face in a corridor. Li Chengkun ced a ck piece on the board and asked, Where are Qian Qis troops now? The state preceptor replied, It has been raining in the south. It is said they are blocked by andslide, so they are still in Baoning city at the moment. Hearing that, the poker-faced prince frowned involuntarily. He asked, Where is Xiao Baoshan? Do you know what he is doing? Xiao Baoshan? Humph! The state preceptor suddenly got angry. He has disbanded the army, letting the soldiers return to their families. Now, he is admired by all the southern people. Some of them even want to build a temple for him. Li Chengkuns brows furrowed even more tightly. Will Qian Qi betray us? I guess he wont. The state preceptor put down a white piece and continued. His admiration for his elder brother is as much as what Li Chengru feels for the fourth prince. Both of them will kill Xiao Baoshan as soon as they find him. Isnt that the reason we sent Qian Qi to do this? Li Chengkun said faintly, Dont be overly confident. Everything is unknown until we hear from Qian Qi himself. The state preceptor asked in surprise, You think he might betray us? If so, we will be faced with a great deal of trouble. Li Chengkun said, Its always good to take precautions. The state preceptor thought of something and said, The best way to control Qian Qi is to control his family members, who are always united as one. By then, Qian Qi will naturally obey us. ... The Qian family. There were only two women, several kids and an olddy in Qian Qis residence. However, the atmosphere was neither dull nor dispiriting. As an old saying goes, the family atmosphere was the best fengshui. Everyone in the Qian family was kind and respectful to others, creating a harmonious living environment. Their faces were all glowing with health and even the olddy always looked radiant. This family had been cultivating military talents for generations. All the people in this family, including the servants, knew a great deal about martial arts. At that moment, the children were reading military books, the olddy was taking a nap and the women were embroidering and chatting. But then, a group of soldiers arrived and surrounded the house. The Qians were all confused. Old Mrs. Qian went out and asked, Did we make some sort of mistake? The group leader said respectfully, Mrs. Qian, dont worry. You can do anything you want except for going out. We wont hurt you. Old Mrs. Qian thought of her son and asked, Did Qian Qi do anything wrong? He replied, No. General Qian is fighting against the enemy forces in the south. Its not safe outside, so weve been sent to protect you. Do you have the document from the Imperial Court of Justice or permission from the governor-general? The man said, We have the document. The olddy looked somewhat worried. ... The news that the Qian family had been besieged soon spread throughout the capital. Why are the soldiers besieging General Qians house? The capital has been peaceful recently and the Qian family also has its own guards. Obviously, the soldiers were sent to monitor the Qians. But General Qian is fighting in the south now. Humph! Do you know who he is fighting against? The sixth prince. Isnt he fighting against the foreign enemies? Of course not. The sixth prince has already beaten back the enemies. Now General Qian has been sent to kill the sixth prince who is suspected of plotting a rebellion. But as far as I know, the sixth princes army was disbanded after the war. Oh? It must have something to do with party-rted strife. I suppose so. Such discussions could be heard anywhere in the capital. At the same time, the Qian family went into panic. Fortunately, Old Mrs. Qian remained calm and controlled the overall situation. In the hall, she analyzed the situation soberly. I guess this is not about Hongyans invasion but the domestic, party-rted strife. Although the sixth prince is far from the capital near the border, he has won the hearts of the people after handling the enemy. But that also makes him a thorn in some peoples sides. Anyhow, if he wants to erge his army, nobody can really stop it. The imperial court is afraid he might make himself king of the border areas. Her elder daughter-inw asked, Are they afraid that our brother will refuse to kill the sixth prince? Old Mrs. Qian looked more than serious. Qi is an upright man who can tell right from wrong. Besides, our family precepts require that we can only kill enemies or traitors, and mustnt participate in party-rted strife. If the sixth prince is innocent, Qi will not attack Baoning city. So those men want to hold us hostage and control my husband! Qian Qis wife was irritated. I suppose so, said Old Mrs. Qian. The elder woman then said, We cant surrender ourselves to these viins. We must try to help Qi. The younger woman echoed, Yes! Anyway, we should break out of here. Old Mrs. Qian said faintly, We have no way of escaping. Were heavily surrounded! Besides, if we break out, they will then assume Qi is going against the imperial court. What should we do then? We must figure out a way to help Qi even at the cost of our lives. Chapter 205 - Xiao Baoshan Helps Out the Qians

Chapter 205: Xiao Baoshan Helps Out the Qians

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Old Mrs. Qian gave a deep sigh. Even if we die here, Qi will know nothing about this. He wont know of our decision and will still be threatened. So we can only wait patiently. If only we could send a letter to him, telling him wed rather die than be burdens to him! Hearing that, they all felt discouraged. The soldiers wouldnt even let a pigeon in, so how could they possibly send a letter out? ... While they were stuck there feeling helpless, Xiao Baoshan arrived in time. Those with him were Qian Qis trustworthy elite soldiers. They were familiar with the capital and General Qians residence and could figure out a way to slip inside. Although the residence was heavily guarded, the state preceptor tried not to provoke the Qians and had not posted any guards inside. Therefore, the Qians could still live an unmonitored life in the house. After Xiao Baoshan slipped in, he met the olddy secretly with the letter. Old Mrs. Qian felt that he was quite familiar. Two years ago, she had seen him once from a distance when parting with her elder son. Everyone in the capital had thought he was a great talent who would be promoted above her son if he won the battle. So she had observed him for quite a while. Meeting him again, Old Mrs. Qian asked, Who are you? Im Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan! Youre that traitor! Why are you here? Are you an aplice of those viins? Do you want to kill me and threaten my son? Old Mrs. Qian became imposingly furious. Xiao Baoshan took out Qian Qis letter and handed it to her. I was so incapable that I failed to save the fourth prince and General Qian that time. But I promise Im not a traitor. Mrs. Qian, this letter was written by Qian Qi. Youll know Im innocent after reading it. Qian Qis trusted subordinates also backed him up. Old Mrs. Qian was finally convinced. She uncovered the letter and read it slowly. Her brows furrowed more and more tightly. ... Old Mrs. Qian was a daring, resolute and efficient woman. Once she decided to do something, she would take action immediately. After reading Qian Qis letter, she brought the whole family together. She told them give up everything there and they went to meet with Qian Qi. If Qi kills the sixth prince, he will be promoted and our familys status will also improve. But at the same time, our family will be notorious in the public eye. This is not what we want. What we should do now is to meet with Qi and support whatever he wants to do, instead of being a burden to him! After she had given the instruction, everybody was quick to prepare for the journey. With Xiao Baoshans help, they managed to leave the capital in disguise. It was two dayster that the guards found the house to be empty. They reported the situation to the Imperial Court of Justice and then to the state preceptor. After learning the news, the state preceptor flew into a rage. Humph! They are just women and children and cant go too far. Send soldiers to find them and ask other local governments to help arrest them. Dont let them slip into any other cities! ... The state preceptor met the third prince instantly. After hearing the news, Li Chengkun frowned imperceptibly. The Qians are doltish and stubborn. Anyway, they are useless to us from now on, so we dont need to keep them alive. Just kill them directly. The state preceptor was somewhat surprised by his words. He turned to his footman and said, The order has changed. Kill the Qians if anyone finds them. The footman nodded and left temporarily. The state preceptor said, Unfortunately, Qian Qi has taken many elite soldiers with him. Im afraid they will support the sixth prince to rule the border areas. If so, ournd will be smaller. Li Chengkun sneered. The southwest is merely an uncivilized ce, so I dont believe he can make any kind of stir there. Besides, hes not a person who would crown himself. What he will do is simply train soldiers to protect him. The state preceptor chewed over his words and said, I agree with you. When youe to the throne, you can be generous to give him a title of nobility and keep him in the west. Li Chengkun smiled. But soon, his face fell again. Things are bing more and moreplicated now. We have to carry out our n sooner. The state preceptor was hesitant. But His Majesty is sometimes unconscious and sometimes sober. The doctor has been keeping him alive with medicine, so Im afraid he wont abdicate anytime soon, unless... How dare you! Li Chengkun roared. Im a prince, His Majestys son, how can I kill my own father? The state preceptor didnt dare to speak anymore. I didnt say anything about killing the emperor. Why did the third prince mention this? Li Chengkun said, Forget it. You can go back now. I want to think about it alone. The state preceptor nodded and left. .. When the state preceptor sat in the carriage, his footman came up to him. The state preceptor leaned against the board and asked, My conversation with the third prince had been going well until I mentioned unless. Then, he said he couldnt kill his father. Did I tell him to kill his father? The footman said, No, I didnt hear that. Then why did he mention this? the state preceptor asked. The footman had apanied the state preceptor for years and always knew what his master was thinking about. He rolled his eyes before he said, The third prince might be hinting that theres something he cant do by himself, but you can help him to carry out. The state preceptor also red like the third prince, How dare you! Im loyal to His Majesty. How could I do anything rebellious? The footman knelt at once. Please forgive me! The state preceptor said, Forget it. Get up from there. After returning to his home, the state preceptor wrote a secret letter and handed it to his footman. Take this to the imperial pce. Dont let anyone find it. The footman obeyed the order. ... On a mountain to the west of the capital, some people were spurring their horses forward. Their new identities as escapees forced them to avoid official roads and instead go through the mountain trails. Chapter 206 - An Affair with the Empress Dowager

Chapter 206: An Affair with the Empress Dowager

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Fortunately, the Qians were all skillful horse riders, so they didnt need carriages. With each horse carrying one or two persons, their speed was greatly increased. But they still confronted a group of soldiers who wanted to arrest them. To be exact, these men were devoted killers. They had been lying in ambush since they had received the message. If Xiao Baoshan hadnt been alert enough to stop, they might have stumbled on a rope stretched across the road in the front of them. Drawing the swords, they began to fight. Weaker than these men as they were, the women worked together to handle the enemies. Their unbending spirit was more than impressive. Old Mrs. Qian brandished her sword and roared, I havent fought for years! Its your fortune to see my sword unsheathed! Her two daughters-inw were also in high spirits. We should let them know the women in the Qian family are not ones to be bullied! Their morale boosted, the women showed highbat effectiveness. The men were also inspired by their bravery. As a result, it took them under 15 minutes to kill most of the enemies. The others had allmitted suicide by biting off their tongues. Therefore, it remained unknown who had sent the killers there. The Qians felt fortunate that they had escaped rather than staying in the capital. The killers had shown them the gravity of the situation. Immediately, they mounted the horses again and hurried to the west. There would be more dangers waiting for them on the rest journey. However, the Qians felt proud that they wouldnt remain a burden to Qian Qi. The capital. A great bell tolled a dozen times before dawn. This was to signal the emperors death. All the people poured out of houses and began a hot discussion. The emperor has passed away, but he hasnt decided who will seed to the throne. Anyway, it will be one of the princes in the capital. Since the fourth prince died, the emperor hasnt made anybody Crown Prince. So who will take the position? Its not our ce to worry about this. The nobles will select a new emperor in the end. The discussion went on for a long time. The emperors funeral was the first thing to be considered. The young empress showed up to deal with the overall situation. She imed that the emperor had decided his sessor and asked her to announce it after he died. When all the ministers gathered in the imperial court, she announced that the third prince was the new emperor. Some ministers were unsatisfied with the result, but they could only ept it. Anyway, the third prince was better than the drowsy old man who was too old to handle political affairs. The new emperor showed his capability aftering to the throne. He arranged his fathers funeral well and immediately dealt with the backlog of work. Since Xiao Baoshan had contributed greatly to protecting the country, Li Chengkun said he would restore his good name. He did so also to reassure and pacify the public. However, hemanded that the troops garrisoned in the south be dispatched by the imperial court. As for Qian Qi, Li Chengkun directly sent him to help Li Chengyi in guarding the western borders. His generosity was highly praised by the public. People said he was benevolent and sympathetic, and that he cared for his brothers, though he grew up in a highlypetitive environment. But they wouldnt know he secretly sent soldiers to hunt down Xiao Baoshan and the Qians. ... As Li Chengkun was enthroned, the previous empress became the current empress dowager. One day, a eunuch went up to the state preceptor and handed him a slip of paper secretly. The state preceptor then left the front pce before he uncovered it stealthily. He then went another direction and entered the front pce again through a small door, eventually entering the empress dowagers bedroom. It was reasonable for the empress dowager to meet a minister. After all, she still had great authority when the new emperor had just ascended the throne. At first, the empress dowager pretended to discuss political affairs with him, but, after a while, she dismissed all the maids and eunuchs. The state preceptor couldnt wait to hold her in his arms and suck her tender neck. I missed you so much. Still keeping herself looking good in her forties, the empress dowager was as attractive as a thirty-year-old woman. Her skin was still delicate and tender. Be gentle with me. Theres no hurry. I cant hold myself back. When did west spend time together? It was half a year ago! Dont you have a wife waiting for you in your bedroom? How can that ugly woman rival you? She is as old as a dried log. But you are different. Youre so soft, vivacious and sweet. I love your curvaceous body so much! She was delighted by his honeyed words, though she tried to push him away with the slightest strength. She pounded his chest lightly and said with a pout, Humph! You terrible smooth-talker! The state preceptor ripped her dress as he asked, Do you like the smooth-talker in front of you or that old guy? She grumbled flirtatiously, How could youpare yourself with that old guy? He kept asking, How did you, well, handle him? She pouted again and replied coquettishly, I did as you told me. I found that colorless and odorless stuff and put it in his medicine. Oh, can you stop asking about that? My heart still pounds when I think about it. He then stroked her breast and asked, Really? Let me ease it a bit. Youre so bad... Dayster, Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions finally reached Baoning city. Located in the border area, the city had arger garrison and higher ramparts than other ces. Many refugees were gathering outside the city. ording to the early arrivals, they needed to queue up to enter the city and they would have to wait a long time. In order to guarantee the refugees welfare, the sixth prince would arrange them to different nomadic tribes, which meant they could settle down there. So they only needed to wait. Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions sighed with relief. They felt delighted that they could now start a new life. Nothing could be more important than staying healthy and safe and having food to eat. The two families began unloading the mats and other necessities from the carriages, ready for two days of waiting. But Li Chengru walked directly to the gate. Squire Liu said loudly behind him, Mr. Li, where are you going? You want to get a number card? We have registered just now, so you just need to wait here. Li Chengru ignored him and kept striding forward. Squire Liu turned to others and said, He might want to know more about the city. I can understand him. After all, its our first timeing here. I hope he can bring some useful information back. But just then, Li Chengru began arguing with the guards. Squire Liu was afraid this young man would offend the guards, so he rushed over to mediate the quarrel. The others didnt follow on because they believed the shrewd squire would soon help Li Chengru out. They went on with what they were doing. At the same time, Ye Xiaoxian was asking other refugees where to get clean water. As she was going to get some water, Squire Liu and Li Chengru came back. Squire Liu was trying hard to hold back hisughter while Li Chengrus face was flushed with anger. Li Chengru sat down and remained silent. Curiously, the others asked Squire Liu, What happened? Why did youe back so quickly? What did you learn from the guards? Hearing that, Squire Liu burst outughing uncontrobly. Li Chengru stared at Squire Liu who ignored it directly. After a while, Squire Liu stoppedughing and said, Mr. Li said to the guards that he was the seventh prince and he wanted to meet his brother inside. The listeners looked at Li Chengru with surprise. The man in front of them was liberal with his money and looked distinguished. But how could he be a prince? Wong Mudan said, Would a prince escape with us? He can go anywhere he likes because the whole country is his home. How could he live outdoors with us? Chen Ju echoed, I agree with you. A prince wont eat the same as us. As far as I know, a prince will go anywhere in a carriage driven by four horses, have endless money and wear priceless clothes. Xiao Baochengughed and ridiculed him. Are you a prince who doesnt wash face? Your face is as muddy as ours. Hahaha! Ye Xiaoxian was also amused. She knew Li Chengru must have a wealthy father who might be a fifth-ranked official. But he was too willful to be a prince. Princes shown on tv either studied hard in the capital or wandered around the world freely, making friends. Inparison, Li Chengru looked disheveled with moldy old clothes that he had worn for days. Liu Qianqian was alsoughing. She even advised him not to be so vain, or he might be sentenced to death for posing as a prince. The sixth prince is not a silly man. Please dont get all of us into trouble. she added. Li Chengrus face fell totally, but he could only bear it. After all, he hadnt brought anything to prove his identity and nobody knew him here. Fengsheng spoke for his master, He really is a prince. Youll believe it when you meet the sixth prince. Hearing that, the whole party exploded in roars ofughter again. How could they meet the sixth prince? It was easier to ept their new identities as herdsmen. Ye Xiaoxian guessed that Li Chengru and Fengsheng might want to get a chance to work for the sixth prince, relying on their excellent skills in martial arts. That way, they wouldnt need to live as ordinary herdsmen. Chapter 207 - The Xiao Family Reunion

Chapter 207: The Xiao Family Reunion

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Although Baoning city was drier than the southern areas, it had enough water to satisfy its daily needs. Since it was directly governed by Li Chengyi, the guards here were more polite and kind than those in Daan county. They were hospitable to everyone except for someone that imed himself to be the sixth kings brother. After bringing the water back, Ye Xiaoxian bought some dried dung and a simple tent to shelter them from the wind. Getting the dung lit, she began to make dinner. They had bought a great deal of solid food in Daan county, so they could eat well for the next few days. Ye Xiaoxian cooked porridge and baked some cakes. When everything was ready, they sat in a circle to enjoy the meal. With their pale, wizened faces, most of the refugees looked malnourished and unhealthy. Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions also had dirty faces and worn clothes, but they were dressed neatly and appeared glowing with health. A refugee near them asked, Where are you from? As usual, Squire Liu replied, Were from Qinghe county. What about you? Were from there too. But we lived in the countryside. Sadly, three people have left us on the journey, but we could only bury them with some earth and grass. Have you had any casualties? Squire Liu savored the porridge as he replied, Yes, I lost a servant when we confronted some bandits up a mountain. Only one? The refugee was surprised. Squire Liu said, One is bad enough. Life is precious, isnt it? The refugee still felt it unfair. s, money and carriages can save lives. We poor men are different from you. My dad died of hunger. He gave his food to my son secretly and sacrificed himself. Squire Liu said, Martial arts are more important than carriages. Bandits dont care whether you have carriages or not. Without two mens help, we might have all been killed in a robbery. As he said tis, he took a look at Li Chengru. Li Chengru didnt respond because he was still angry about being ridiculed. Squire Liu seemed to think of something and turned tofort Li Chengru. Mr. Li, now that youre so excellent in martial arts, you dont need to be an ordinary herdsman. As the refugees increase in numbers, more men are needed to maintain public order. Then, you can ask the government official for a job patrolling or guarding the city. Anyway, its better than herding or mowing. Li Chengrus face fell again. The cake in his hand was no longer delicious. Fengsheng said, Our master wont do that kind of job. Squire Liu said, Mr. Li, if you were anywhere else, you could definitely be a leader with your talents. But now youre a refugee, you cant ask for too much. If you want to stand tall, you can begin with a small position, right? The Xiaos agreed in unison. Li Chengrus face flushed with rage again. ... The sky became dark secretly. As the refugees made fire one after another, Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were also ready to take a rest. The men were still responsible for night-watch duty. Gradually, the wilderness grew quiet. When Ye Xiaoxianid down on a mat for a sleep, Liu Qianqian came up to her. Ye Xiaoxian asked curiously, Why dont you stay with Jia Zhenbo? All this way, Liu Qianqian and Jia Zhenbo had been clinging to each other just like conjoined twins. If they were at home, they would have had more intimate moments. Liu Qianqian nudged her and joked, Ive grown tired of him. Who believes that? What do you want to say to me? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Liu Qianqian indeed had something to ask her, so she came straight to the point. What do you n to do after entering the city? Well be allocated to a tribe, wont we? Ye Xiaoxian said. Men may herd goats, camels or horses. Women may milk goats or nt melons. Liu Qianqian smiled and said, Im asking about this. I mean, do you want to be alone all the time? Alone? But I have so many rtives. Ye Xiaoxian was confused. Ah, why cant you get my meaning? I mean, dont you want to marry again? Liu Qianqian asked. After we enter the city, we will have a lot of things to worry about. How can I have time to think about this? Ye Xiaoxian said. Liu Qianqian looked at Li Chengru before she whispered, What about Mr. Li? Youre divorced and hes unmarried. The whole way, hes cared about you the most. Every time you relieve yourself at night, hell protect you. Even if he doesnt follow you, hell also watch where you go. Really? Ye Xiaoxian remembered it happening only once. Yes, Ive seen it many times, Liu Qianqian assured her. Youve been watching him? Maybe its you who likes him, Ye Xiaoxian joked. Dont be too greedy, or your love will be jealous. How could I be that kind of person? Im considering you! Liu Qianqian said with a sigh. Thank you! But he and I are from different worlds. You also heard him mention he was the sixth princes brother, the seventh prince. Ye Xiaoxian giggled at the thought. Liu Qianqian alsoughed with her. Keeping watch at night, Li Chengru overheard their conversation clearly. He was on the verge of exploding again. How dare Liu Qianqian try to match Ye Xiaoxian and him! How dare Ye Xiaoxian look down on him! How dare she talk about him in a disdainful tone! After he met the sixth king, he would have various ways to shut her mouth. He tried hard to suppress his anger and calm himself down. But how can I meet my sixth brother? he thought. In all honesty, he was not familiar with his sixth brother. He wondered what kind of person his brother was and whether his brother would like him. Just then, a horse approached from the distance. The gallop of hooves was rapid and strong, indicating the riders excellent horsemanship. Under the pale moonlight, two figures could be seen on horseback. Hearing the noise, some refugees who were awake climbed up and began discussing why these two people, who didnt seem like refugees, hade here at night. The horse rushed to the gate at once. Although the gate was closed, there were guards on the ramparts. The rider shouted from below, Open the gate. Im Dong Biao. Dong Biao? Li Chengru realized it was his sixth brothers trusted bodyguard. Before the gate was opened, Li Chengru rushed up to him and said hurriedly, Dong Biao, Im Li Chengru! Biao lowered his head and looked Li Chengru up and down. When he recognized the man in front of him, he dismounted the horse instantly and helped Xiao Baozhu down. Then, he knelt and asked, Are you really the seventh king? But why are you here? Now that Li Chengkun was enthroned, the princes also became kings. Li Chengru resumed his arrogance and showed his jade pendant. Look at this. Biao took it and looked even more surprised. This man was indeed the seventh king, not merely looking like him. Why was he here then? Although, it was possible for this exceptionally willful king to do anything. Biao said immediately, Your highness, are you here to meet the sixth king? If so, I can take you in now. Li Chengru said, Wait a moment. He wanted to prove to the Xiaos and the Lius that he was a distinguished king and give Ye Xiaoxian a shock. In fact, they had all been looking in his direction and saw the rider kneeling in front of him. It urred to them what Li Chengru had said before. Was he really a prince? Just then, Li Chengru turned to the Xiaos and nned to tell them he would enter the city first to meet the sixth king. After that, he would go back to pick them up and amodate them well. Of course, he could also take them into the city now. As a king, he had the right to do so. But he was still angry about being ridiculed and wanted to give them some sort of punishment. Anyway, they had be used to outdoor lifetely. But as he walked over to them, Xiao Baozhu followed on and asked tentatively, Sister Ye? Mom? Baofeng? Li Hongmei knew there had been a woman on the horse, but she couldnt see her face clearly in the darkness. When she heard Xiao Baozhus voice, she eximed in surprise, Baozhu? Is that Baozhu? Hearing Li Hongmeis voice, Xiao Baozhu became excited and ran over. When she saw all her rtives, she was moved to tears. Youre all alive! Youre all alive! she cried with joy. As she had witnessed more and more corpses on her journey, she had grown increasingly worried about her family. The Xiao family was neither rich nor influential. How far could the Xiaos go? Would they confront any bandits? The more she had thought about it, the more frightened she had be. It was such a surprise that she could meet them at her final stop. She threw herself into Li Hongmeis arms, Ye Xiaoxians, and then Xiao Baofengs. Biao went up to her and asked, Are they your rtives? Yes! They are my mom, brother and Sister Ye. Over there are my grandpa, uncles and aunts. Xiao Baozhu introduced them. Biao said immediately, Now that they are General Xiaos rtives, just let theme in with us. How can I make them stay outside? Li Chengru was stupefied. Chapter 208 - Brothers

Chapter 208: Brothers

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Under the envious eyes of other refugees, Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions strode into the city. The small city was the sixth kings fief, where he had done many good deeds. Under his governance, people were living better lives and the streets were bustling. Some roads were under construction. The city was prospering. Since it waste, few people were in the streets, but the bright moonlight and candlelight from the houses lit up their road forward. Excited, Li Hongmei held Xiao Baozhus hand and asked her how she came here and where Xiao Baoshan was. Xiao Baozhu was not that naive girl anymore. No matter how Li Hongmei asked, she just replied calmly, Mom, theres no hurry. Its a long story. I can tell you everything after we settle down. After going through several streets, they arrived at the sixth kings pce. It looked like a scaled-down version of the Imperial Pce. Biao was the sixth kings man, so he could enter the pce freely. Since there were too many people, he decided to take only Li Chengru inside before amodating the others. The Xiaos and the Lius were kept waiting outside. Outside the pce, nobody dared to behave as casually as they had done elsewhere. They straightened their backs, standing in a respectful manner. Half an hourter, Biao came out with a man called Qiao Hu who would take them to have a rest. Since they weremoners, they were not allowed to enter the pce. Qiao Hu took them to a post house and let the owner take good care of them. After Qiao Hu left, the Xiaos and the Lius were led to their rooms. They sighed with relief. Xiao Baozhu, Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian shared a room. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju got two rooms respectively. Old Mr. Xiao and Xiao Baofeng stayed together. The rooms were not big, but they were morefortable than the previous ones. After settling down, Li Hongmei asked, Baozhu, now you can answer my questions, right? Where is Baoshan? How did he let the sixth kings man take you here? Since it waste at night, everything was quiet around them. Atst, Xiao Baozhu agreed to tell Li Hongmei everything she knew. My brother used to be a general, she said as she wiped her tears. We know this. Just skip it. Li Hongmei urged. Surprised, Xiao Baozhu continued, When the war urred, it was my brother who led the troops to handle the enemies. Do you know about this? Li Hongmei shook her head and asked hurriedly, Really? We heard that the sixth king sent a general to lead the troops, but we didnt know it was your brother. It was indeed my brother. He went to Qinghe county and defeated the enemy. He had nned to return here, but the Imperial Court sent an army to attack Baoning city and to kill him. So he went alone to persuade General Qian not tounch the attack, and prevent war from breaking out. Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian were stunned by her words. Li Hongmei stammered, Is, is Ba-Baoshan really that impressive? Yes, he is! Hes been keeping a low profile and has never let us know of his achievements. But when he leads the troops, he is like a war hero. I was so stupid not to realize that. I must have been blind or I wouldnt have taken a fancy to Schr Wong and done so many stupid things. What happened then? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Xiao Baozhu said, My brother said General Qian is an upright man. But if General Qian gives up attacking Baoning city, the Imperial Court will threaten him with his rtives lives. So my brother went to the capital to rescue them. I dont know whether he has made it or not. He let Biao escort me here and said General Qians troops would arrive afterward. Li Hongmei looked pale with concern. He went to save people? But there are so many soldiers in the capital. I know hes strong, but how could he deal with so many soldiers single-handedly? Xiao Baozhu said, I once asked Biao whether he thought my brother could make it. He said there was a sixty-percent chance. Ye Xiaoxian felt her heart suddenly sinking. Just then, Xiao Baozhu turned to her and said, Sister Ye, when I met my brother, I asked him if he really wanted to part from you. Although he didnt answer, I could tell from his expression that he still loved you. He left you and his mom for unknown reasons, but he went back to Qinghe county to look for us. If he really abandoned us, why would he go back again? Ye Xiaoxian remained silent. She didnt know what to think. After a while, she asked, Baozhu, why did youe here? You said you didnt want to leave the Wong family. Xiao Baozhu sighed deeply. Then, she told her story slowly. Learning what her daughter had experienced, Li Hongmei couldnt help cursing. This bastard not only treated you badly but also left you in danger! I wont feel sorry for him, even though his wife and baby died. He got what he deserved! Ye Xiaoxianforted, Baozhu, now that youve got that off your chest, we should try to enjoy our time together. Youre still young, so you have time to look for someone that loves you. I believe a man is waiting for you in the future. Xiao Baozhu said, The thought of Schr Wong still frightens me. I just want to be with my mom. Li Hongmei wanted to change the topic, so she mentioned Li Chengru. Baozhu, youve seen Mr. Li C I mean the Seventh King C right? I have to tell you how funny he is. She told her all about Li Chengru, including how he had saved them and how he had caused everyone tough outside the city. Xiao Baozhu quickly cheered up. Mom, its your fortune to meet him. This must be the result of doing good deeds. Hahaha, youre right. ... Inside the sixth kings pce. Cordially, Li Chengyi asked Li Chengru to have a seat, and they were served food and wine. Since they were half-brothers, they were not that familiar with each other, but nor did they bear each other any ill will. Li Chengyi had offended the state preceptor, and was almost assassinated for the transgression. Without Xiao Baoshans help, he might have been killed. After that, the Emperor was persuaded to send Li Chengyi to Baoning city. Li Chengru had once heard about this from other people. He had been a carefree man growing up with the fourth king. But unlike the fourth king, he was careless and restless. He disliked politics and detested party-rted strife, for which reason he didnt be the target for treacherous people. In other words, no one took him seriously. Li Chengyi gazed at his disheveled brother and asked, Why did youe here? Did you miss me? Li Chengru said, Oh, please dont make fun of me. You dont miss me? Li Chengyi went on joking. All right, I miss you, Li Chengru said. Li Chengyi gave him a bright smile. If so, why dont you live here for several days before you return to the capital? Its better not to go back there. Its so boring. Li Chengru said. Li Chengyi became slightly serious. Brother, do you know our father has passed away? Really? When? Li Chengru was stunned. Ive just received this message, but its toote for me to go back now. Our third brother hase to the throne. Li Chengru didnt care who the new Emperor was. He had no interest in power. So he said directly, Youd better stay here. Dont forget that you dispatched the troops without permission. If you go back, someone will have you killed. Li Chengyi smiled. He told Li Chengru how Xiao Baoshan had persuaded him to dispatch the troops and how he had gone to the capital to save Qian Qis rtives. In the end, he empathized. I believe Xiao Baoshan is not a traitor. Li Chengru thought for a while and concluded: the sixth brother was the fourth brothers close friend, so he must be a good person. Likewise, it could be concluded that the third brother wasnt a good person. He looked like a fool with a permanent poker face. Li Chengru said, Iming with Xiao Baoshans rtives. Weve been looking after each other all this way. Oh? How did you look after them? Li Chengyi was amused. His brother didnt seem like the type who knew how to take care of other people. Li Chengru replied, I saved them from bandits. What else? Li Chengyi asked. I shared my carriage with them and bought roastmbs for them to eat. In front of his fourth brother, Li Chengru was just like a child waiting for a parents praise. Li Chengyi said, I am sorry to say I cant give them special treatment. They have to rely on themselves. Li Chengru said disdainfully, Of course they will rely on themselves. They are as strong and stubborn as weeds and can survive anywhere they go. Weeds? I mean they are ... resilient. Li Chengyi burst intoughter. Dont worry. Now that they are Xiao Baoshans rtives, I can make a good tribe out of them. What kind of good tribe? Li Chengru asked. You seem to care a lot about them. Do you like them? Its not that. I have taken care of them this far. I would hate for anything to happen to them now, Li Chengru muttered. At the same time, he thought of Ye Xiaoxian. Chapter 209 - Come Back if Youre Not a Coward!

Chapter 209: Come Back if Youre Not a Coward!

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Li Chengyi replied with a smile. Then, he praised, Youve changed a lot. I can see the shadow of our fourth brother from you. Li Chengru was much ttered, but he didnt want to show how happy he was. So he asked faintly, Why do you think so? Do you remember what he told us? He said we must be sympathetic to the people and understand what they really need. So he often mingled with the people incognito and thus rooted out many corrupt officials. But that was also why he was hated by so many of those officials. You not only protected the Xiaos all this way, but are also mindful of their future. I can see you are not an idle dandy anymore. Li Chengru was so taken aback by his brothers praise that he felt almost dizzy. Li Chengyi said, If you dont want to go back, you can stay here and help me with some affairs. Many refugees areing here and some of Qian Qis soldiers will also be stationed here. We need to settle them down, prevent disturbances and also subsidize them. You can learn how to govern a city. Li Chengru never cared about such things before. They were so sensitive that anyone involved would be considered fair game by treacherous people. He hated it so much. But now it was the sixth king who proposed this suggestion in his own domain, so Li Chengru didnt need to worry. He replied, My ability is limited and I know nothing about politics. But since you are my brother, I can help share some of your burdens. But Im used to a leisurely life, so please, go easy on me. Li Chengyiughed again. Dont worry. You can begin with some simple work. ... Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions lived cozily in the post house. Knowing that they were Xiao Baoshans rtives, the owner provided warm water to them to have afortable bath. They could stay here until Xiao Baoshan was back. But sooner orter, they would still be assigned to a tribe like many officials rtives in Baoning city. After all, the city was so poor that the sixth king wanted everyone to be diligent and thrifty. Even his wife would go to the tribes to teach them how to spin and knit wool. Several dayster, the sixth king summoned Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei to the pce. Since Ye Xiaoxian was transferred to this dynasty, this was her first time toe to such a splendid ce and meet such a distinguished person. Of course, Li Chengru was an exception. On arriving the pce, Li Hongmei felt a bolt of jitters. In contrast, Ye Xiaoxian had an easy grace. Although it was a pce, its furnishings were not as good as those in modern times. Its glory was easily overshadowed by a four-star hotel in the 21st century. Ye Xiaoxian had visited the Forbidden City once. The rooms where Imperial concubines lived were simple and crude and they were lessfortable than modernmodity housing. As Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei walked in, they were impressed by the well-mannered servants who looked dignified and conservative. Involuntarily, the two women straightened their backs. Soon after they were led to the hall, someone announced that the sixth king wasing. Li Hongmei was so afraid that she knelt and kowtowed immediately. Seeing that Ye Xiaoxian was still standing straight, she warned her hurriedly, Little Ye, what are you doing? Kneel and kowtow like me. But Ye Xiaoxian was reluctant. How could I, a woman with a modern soul, abase myself to kowtow? I only kowtow when worshipping ancestors in modern times, she thought. But as she learned from television series, one had to kneel to a higher-status man in ancient times. Realizing that she was amoner, she finally knelt and made a kowtow. Li Chengyi had been observing the two women. Li Hongmei behaved like anymoner meeting a person of such status. But Ye Xiaoxian looked calm and somewhat unyielding. If she had been dressed more smartly, she would have been as mourous as anyone. He admired a woman like her most. At the same time, he understood why Xiao Baoshan said his wife gave him hope to live she deserved a mans protection. Li Chengyi let them have a seat and began asking various questions, including whether they were used to the local life and whether they had met any trouble on the journey. He didnt mention Xiao Baoshan at all. Li Hongmei was so nervous that she jabbered and stammered. Eventually, Ye Xiaoxian spoke for her. She replied to every question fluently and with confidence. In the end, Li Chengyi asked, You must have due consideration before deciding to have life anew in Baoning city. What do you n to do here? Ye Xiaoxian said, I heard we would be assigned to a tribe. That being the case, we will try to create a good life, with adequate food and clothing for all family members. The sixth king was surprised that she didnt ask for anything like a house or money. He asked them over just to know what they wanted. As long as their requests were reasonable, he would then satisfy them. But Ye Xiaoxians reply made the sixth king very confused. Xiao Baoshan had said his wife was a vige woman, but how could a vige woman possess such a broad mind? Did she really want nothing? Or was she just afraid to ask for anything? Just then, Ye Xiaoxian said, But I have something to ask you for help. The sixth king couldnt help thinking: It seems that I cant make judgments so fast. How could a vige woman let go of an opportunity to obtain money? What is it? he asked. Ye Xiaoxian said, We are ordinary people and can withstand any hardship. But Xiao Baoshan has a younger brother who used to study very well in Qinghe county and even became a Confucian apprentice. If possible, I want him to continue his studies here. However poor we are, we should ensure he gets a good education. Li Chengyi felt shocked. How did a vige woman have such worldly wisdom? How did she know the importance of education? The countryside was wherebor was in shortest supply. In most such families, the boy would be expected do more work. The sixth king asked with a smile, Why do you want him to study? Why dont you let him help share your burden? You want him to study to win promotion and get rich? Ye Xiaoxian replied, Indeed, he can share much burden for us. But education is also very important. It is not for money, but for wisdom. I hope he can learn more and better serve the people in the future. Li Chengyi was very satisfied with her answer. He nodded and said, He should continue his studies. But there is not a good school in Baoning city. If the boy is really a good learner, he can stay in the pce and study with my children. Li Hongmei was panicked by his generous suggestion. But before she could decline it, Ye Xiaoxian said, Thank you so much! ... Since Li Chengyi was very busy, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei didnt stay long in the pce. When they return to the post house, the Xiaos and the Lius poured toward them immediately. They envied it so much that the two women could meet the sixth king. What is the sixth king like? Does he look like Li Chengru? Squire Liu asked. What did the sixth king say to you? Now that Baoshan has made such great achievements in the war, would the sixth king award you a house so that you dont need to work in the tribe? Liu Qianqian asked. Xiao Tieshu also asked, Did you beg him to give us a job with a fixed sry in the government? Old Mr. Xiao cursed, Isnt it better to ask for money directly? With money, we can buy a house here. Or he may as well let us live long in this post house. I feel quitefortable here. Li Hongmei tutted. Dont daydream about it. I heard that even the sixth kings wife has to work here. Youre just amoner. How could the king let you stay idle here? Li Hongmei hadnt dared to say a word in the pce. But back to the post house, she was more than proud and cocky. The sixth king isnt like what you imagine. He is modest, unassuming, steady, and slightly elder than Mr. Li. As for the way he talks... ah, although his voice is low, it is deep and sonorous. Since we entered the pce, we had found over thirty soldiers there. His robe, tut-tut, it is gloriously made of fine cloth. Squire Liu asked, Isnt it made of silk by the best weavers in Jiangsu province? Something with delicate tiger patterns? Li Hongmei flushed. But what I saw was cloth. Squire Liu said, I think youre right. It is said the sixth king loves his people as his own children. Hes diligent, thrifty and never extravagant. Hearing that, Li Hongmei raised her voice again, The sixth king said Baofeng could study with his children. As such, Baofeng can continue his studies and may be a cultivated talent or perhaps even a great schr in the future. Xiao Tongshu asked, You made only one request to the sixth king? Nothing else? Yes, only one. I was too scared to talk at that time. This request was even made by Little Ye. Old Mr. Xiao cursed again, If I had known that, I would have gone to the pce to talk to the sixth king. You foolish women! Li Hongmei protested, If you had gone there with us, you would have been more frightened than me. Hearing what they had said, Xiao Baofeng looked at Ye Xiaoxian with gratitude. He hadnt expected that the only request was about his education. But Ye Xiaoxian seemed not to listen to their conversation. She had been sitting aside absentmindedly since returning. Before she left the pce, Li Chengyi said to her alone, I know what kind of person Baoshan is. I heard that he wrote a letter of divorce to you, but I guess he still loves you. He just doesnt want to get you into trouble. He is a thoughtful person who considers others whether they need it or not. He said he had nned tomit suicide two years ago, but you gave him the hope to live on. Ye Xiaoxian had thought his words over on the way back. Her nose was stuffy with a twinge. Xiao Baoshan,e back and give me an exnation if youre not a coward! She stared at the sky, lost in thought. Chapter 210 - Fight to the End

Chapter 210: Fight to the End

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio In a forest in Zhengwu county. It was raining down heavily, but Xiao Baoshan and the Qians were still hurrying forward. They had changed horses several times to reach Daan county and meet with Qian Qi earlier. Fortunately, the Qians, who took regr exercise, had strong constitutions to withstand the tiring journey and fierce weather. As long as they went through the forest, they would reach Daan county where Qian Qi was waiting for them. Xiao Baoshan gave a slight sigh of relief. He would soon fulfill his task. He would soon owe no more to Qian Qi, his brother and the southern people. Because he had quelled a war and stopped another war. This was enough to pay off his debts. After that, he would look for Little Ye and stay by her side for the rest of his life. He had made up his mind to give her happiness. Thinking about this, his lips curved into a faint smile. But, just as they were about to seed, Xiao Baoshan suddenly felt that something was wrong. Instantly, he gripped the reins and told everyone stop. Just then, over 20 ck figures rushed out from all directions. Although Li Chengkun had imed he would spare Xiao Baoshan and the Qians, he and the state preceptor would never really keep them alive. Li Chengkun wanted to kill them to strike heavy blow to Qian Qi so that he would know the result of betraying him. If Qian Qi rebelled against the imperial court, Li Chengkun would kill him along with the sixth king. If not, he would get his punishment of a lonely and depressing life in the west. These ck figures were elite soldiers, rallied by Li Chengru in Dinghe county. In the downpour, a new battle began. This time, however, Xiao Baoshan and hispanions did not gain the upper hand. The mountain road was narrow and zigzagging. It was not a suitable environment in which to perform the light-body skill. The women were not strong enough and they had grown tired after their long journey. Even though they exerted their full strength, they could only handle a few enemies. As such, only Xiao Baoshan and Qian Qis subordinates could rival them. Clearly, the enemies had nned the battlefield to be here in order to weaken them and pin them down. Xiao Baoshan protected the Qians as he fought against the enemies. Strong and nimble, he didnt give them any chance to rx. He was trying his best to open up a way to break through the tight encirclement. Finally, he saw an opportunity andmanded immediately, Go! You leave first! General Xiao! Old Mrs. Qian felt guilty leaving him here alone. But Xiao Baoshan shouted as he continued fighting, Youll be a burden to me if you stay here. I can fight better without you. Old Mrs. Qian gazed at Xiao Baoshan and then her family members who were helpless, soaked and breathless in the rain. If they remained here, they would indeed be a burden to Xiao Baoshan. She had no choice but to follow Xiao Baoshans advice. As Xiao Baoshan held off the enemies for them, they dashed out of the crowd immediately. When they were far away, Xiao Baoshan was worried that there would be another ambush in front, so he asked Qian Qis subordinates to protect them. General Xiao, what about you? they asked worriedly. Xiao Baoshan said firmly, You go first. Ill soon catch up. Dont make all our efforts be in vain. Try your best to protect General Qians family! That was quite right. All this way, they had confronted countless ambushes and had escaped by the skin of their teeth several times. They were now so close to their destination that they should protect the Qians well. Therefore, they rushed forward to catch up with the Qians, leaving a soldier called Little ck to help Xiao Baoshan. It was still raining heavily, soaking all the people in the forest. Some of the enemies couldnt even open their eyes. Under the dark sky, their battle effectiveness was greatly weakened. But Xiao Baoshan had been trained to recognize an opponents position by hearing in the darkness. This skill put him at an advantage again. He would finish his task as long as he could buy enough time for the Qians to escape. Although Little ck stayed to offer help, his ability only allowed him to handle one enemy at a time. Therefore, he needed Xiao Baoshans protection every time he was attacked by two enemies. He admired Xiao Baoshan from the bottom of his heart. Half an hourter, there were still a dozen enemies left. As Little ck panted heavily, Xiao Baoshan also began breathing faster, his face covered by a mixture of sweat and rain. At that moment, he began to step back as he continued fighting. There must be a favorable fighting position behind him. As long as he held a narrow pass, he could then defend against all of them. Step back! he ordered as he opened up a bloody path for Little ck. Hearing that, Little ck mounted the horse at once. Xiao Baoshan followed him immediately. However, the enemies were close behind them. From among them, a man shot an arrow towards Xiao Baoshan. Before then, he had not had an opportunity to hurt Xiao Baoshan at all. Now, the stage was his. Although the rain blurred his vision and the wind was fierce, his arrow shot through Xiao Baoshans back urately. Xiao Baoshan groaned imperceptibly, but he didnt slow down. Little ck didnt notice at all. The enemies spurred their horses on faster. Finally, Xiao Baoshan and Little ck reached a narrow pass. When the enemies rushed at them, Little ck stopped and was ready to fight with Xiao Baoshan. Only then did he notice the arrow prating Xiao Baoshans back. General Xiao, you... Little ck was greatly shocked. The enemies besieged them again. Xiao Baoshan was hurt and Little cks fighting capacitygged far behind. Facing a dozen enemies, Little ck doubted whether they could break through the encirclement or not. Suddenly, he felt more than downhearted. But Xiao Baoshan still looked very confidant. Little ck, lets drink together after we break through here. Little ck didnt believe it. Could they remain alive in this desperate situation? When Xiao Baoshan rushed at the enemies again, his attack was still powerful and overwhelming, as if he hadnt been injured. Little ck also braced himself and joined the battle. When he almost fainted out of exhaustion, Xiao Baoshan dashed to him and gave a hard kick on his horses rump. Panicked, the horse charged forward crazily. When Little ck looked back with horror, Xiao Baoshan cast a sad smile at him in the nting rain. Little ck realized he nned to fight to the end alone and even sacrifice himself. He might win and he might die. No! Little ck wanted to go back, but the horse didnt obey him and instead ran faster and faster. The sound of fighting faded away behind him... Chapter 211 - Xiao Baoshan Is Dead?

Chapter 211: Xiao Baoshan Is Dead?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio The Qians reached the army barracks safely. Old Mrs. Qianmanded her son to go and save Xiao Baoshan himself with some soldiers. He must ensure Xiaos safety and bring him back. On the way, he met Little ck who was facing a dilemma. Little ck had stopped halfway and was hesitating over whether to go on or to go back. If he went on ahead, Qian Qi would scold him for being a coward. If he went back, he might find that Xiao Baoshan was dead and he would confront the enemies alone. On seeing Qian Qi, this strapping man couldnt help crying. General Qian, Im afraid General Xiao has... Qian Qi knew the situation was urgent and asked immediately, Where is he? Take me there now! But when they reached the area, they didnt find Xiao Baoshan, but only his horse and several corpses. By the side of this path was a high cliff. They suspected that he had fallen. But the cliff was very steep and also slippery in the torrential rain. Qian Qi couldnt let his people risk their lives to go down there. He had no choice but to return to the barracks. Then, he sent many soldiers to look for Xiao Baoshan along another road leading to the foot of the mountain. ... That day, Baoning city was bustling with life. Staying in the post house, Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions also heard the gongs and drums. It was said Qian Qis troops wereing here. The new emperor didnt me Qian Qi and instead gave him the title of West General. But Qian Qi still didnt dare to keep too many soldiers except for his initial troops. The reinforcements from other ces all returned to their original military bases. Little Ye, Little Ye, General Qians troops areing. Lets go and see whether Baoshan is there! Li Hongmei was very excited. Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng tugged at Ye Xiaoxians sleeves with excitement. The other people were also in great delight. But Ye Xiaoxian felt restless and somewhat reluctant. To be honest, she was still a little angry with Xiao Baoshan. What should she, an abandoned woman, say after meeting him? She hoped that Xiao Baoshan had written the letter of divorce to protect her. But if he indeed wanted to divorce her, she would be very embarrassed to go to meet him. So she said with a faint smile, I dont want to go out. You can go there together. Why? Li Hongmei asked. But then she realized something. Little Ye has regarded herself as a member of the Xiao family and has been taking good care of us. But Baoshan has gone too far; anyone with the slightest self-esteem will be angry about it. s, just let her have her way. Li Hongmei said, Okay, you can wait for us here. If I meet Baoshan, I will definitely bring him back and make him apologize to you. Anyway, I will let you sit on the bridal sedan chair again! After saying this, she held Baozhus and Baofengs hands and left. The others followed them out immediately. The post house suddenly became quiet and empty. ... That day, many locals and new inhabitants crowded at the gate of Baoning city. For one thing, they were curious about what General Qian was like. For another, the arrival of the troops brought them the hope that the city would be more peaceful than ever before. Li Chengyi and Li Chengru also stood there, ready to wee General Qian and his troops. Of course, they were also waiting for Xiao Baoshan who had lead a brilliant military sess. However, they only saw Qian Qi and a carriage carrying his rtives. Xiao Baoshan was not in the line. Squire Liu said with confusion, Why cant I see Baoshan? Isnt he a general who should be leading the way? Is he in the carriage? Look, theres a carriage. That might be General Qians rtives. How could Baoshan be there? Maybe he is injured and needs a rest. Dont worry. If we still cant find him, we can go and ask Mr. Li, oh, erm, I mean the seventh king. Helpless, they could only watch the troops with disappointment. ... Ye Xiaoxian was very nervous in the post house, feeling as if sitting on pins and needles. She wasnt in the mood to do anything. asionally she had a look out the window where she could see the troops entering the city. Her heart went pit-a-pat uncontrobly. Leading the line was the sixth king and Li Chengru, followed by several generals, one of whom must surely be Qian Qi. However, she didnt see Xiao Baoshan. She felt somewhat disappointed. Why isnt he returning? Was he dyed by something on the way? Is he sitting in the carriage because hes injured? If hes been injured, is it serious or not? She couldnt help thinking over all the possibilities. When the street quieted down, she heard Li Hongmeis voice. They were back. Ye Xiaoxian sat down immediately as if she had been sewing single-mindedly. On entering the post house, Li Hongmei said, Its so strange that we didnt see Baoshan. Has hee back or not? The other people also said they had gone in vain. Ive known it already, but I wont let you know I care about it, Ye Xiaoxian thought. So she said calmly, Really? Maybe he is dyed by something. Li Hongmei said, I have to ask Mr. Li about this. He must know where Baoshan is. But before Li Hongmei went to the pce, Li Chengru came to the post house first. He had been living in the pce these days and looked no more disheveled. His new clothes ttered his handsomeness and made him distinguished. But he had been wearing a depressed expression since he entered the post house. He seemed to have something to tell them but find it hard to speak out. Besides, he cast a sympathetic look at Ye Xiaoxian from time to time. While Ye Xian could remain calm, Li Hongmei couldnt bear the silence anymore. She couldnt wait to ask, Mr. Li, oh no, Your Highness, do you know where Baoshan is? He is, well, the one you want to kill. Now you may know hes not a traitor. The sixth king said he isnt. The imperial court has also restored his good name. No one will bother him now, but why isnt he back? Is he trapped in the capital? Or was he arrested halfway? Li Chengru looked at them and didnt have the heart to tell the truth. After a long while, he finally hardened his heart and turned to Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan met some trouble on the way back. Im afraid he wouldnte back anymore. Ah? What, what happened? Li Hongmeis lips quivered involuntarily. Ye Xiaoxians hands were also shaking and she couldnt stop it. Her mind was in an uncontroble whirl. Li Chengru said, When he escorted the Qians to Daan county, he confronted an ambush. To protect the Qians, he stayed alone to fight against the enemies and was beaten down the cliff. General Qian has sent soldiers to look for him for two days, but they havent found him. No one knows whether hes alive or dead. The Xiaos were all dumbfounded by his words. Ye Xiaoxians lips went pale directly. A terrible wave of anguish swept over her whole body, tearing her heart wildly. Inside her body, something was forcibly removed and sank slowly. Being an orphan in herst life, she had never felt the love from a family or the pain of parting from someone forever. Before she was transferred to this dynasty, the old director of the orphanage was still alive. She hadnt expected that shed have to part from her husband in this life. Although he had divorced her, he had loved her once. She was numb with shock for a long time. She didnt cry and didnt know what to do or what to say. So she just stared nkly ahead. Li Chengru seemed to be saying something to her, but she couldnt hear it at all. Liu Qianqian also shook her body, but she couldnt give any response. Chapter 212 - Xiao Baoshan Is Dead? II

Chapter 212: Xiao Baoshan Is Dead? II

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio She was really numb now, and not pretending. She went back to her bed at a loss andid down. Then, she closed herself off in her own world. ... Ye Xiaoxiany on the bed for two days. No one could persuade her to eat or drink anything. Tears had dried in Li Hongmeis eyes. She wept out her grief to anyone she met: she had lost two sons. One was weak and died of a disease. The other was healthy and strong and was even a great general. But she hadnt enjoyed the happiness of being a grandmother before they left her. She held Xiao Baofeng tightly, afraid that he would also leave her. At the same time, she felt sympathetic towards Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian appeared to be a strong woman, but Li Hongmei knew she was weak inside. If Xiao Baoshan was just missing like before, there was still hope of seeing him again. But if he had died, it was an eternal separation. There were many beasts in the wilderness near Daan county. Now that the soldiers couldnt find him, he might have been eaten by the beasts. Thinking about that, Ye Xiaoxian felt as if a knife were piercing her heart. Fortunately, Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Baofeng remained calm. Everyday, they tried to take care of Ye Xiaoxian and also coax Li Hongmei to eat more. But Ye Xiaoxian was still lost in distress. Only then did they know how much she loved Xiao Baoshan. What a loyal and steadfast woman! When everyone was afraid that she would starve to death, she came to reason by herself. She got up and asked for some food in the kitchen. Then, she went back to her room and gulped it down immediately. She had straightened out her own thinking: whether Xiao Baoshan was alive or dead, she would live for herself. She couldnt drown herself in sadness all the time. Besides, she was an abandoned woman who had no reason to feel sorrowful for her ex-husband, even though he was such a good man. Few men were as good as him in this world. But she met him and fell in love with him. She should be grateful for her happy time with him and let that be enough. ... Two dayster, Qiao Hu went to the post house to arrange a tribe for Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions. Thanks to Xiao Baoshan and Li Chengru, they livedfortably here with satisfying food for days. But Baoning city wasnt a ce for idle men. It was time for them to work in a tribe. Qiao Hu provided them with several options because the city was asrge as Xinjiang province in modern times. One could feel the climates of four seasons if he or she toured here for a day. Ye Xiaoxian remembered a documentary about the local conditions and customs at the foot of Tianshan Mountains. If Baoning city was Xinjiang province, she was ready to begin a new life at the foot of Tianshan Mountains. She remembered there were lofty ridges, towering mountains and lush green grass. When the snow melted into water, they would flow down the mountains and formed a river. People could herd goats and cows or raise bees at the mountain foot. They could also nt grapes, apples, garlic, potatoes, rape flowers and so on. The ce was such a fairnd that she had been longing to live there. So she asked whether there was such a ce in Baoning city. Qiao Hu replied, I see, you mean the tribe of Tianshan Mountains. But how do you know the ce? She replied, I learned from the locals. Qiao Hu said, It is indeed a good ce, but it is a little far. Besides, people there are tough and doughty. I dont know whether they can ept new friends or not. Ye Xiaoxian said with a smile, I hope we can get along well with them. Dont worry. If you have any difficulty, you can send someone to ask us for help. We can arrange a new tribe for you. Youre General Xiaos rtives, so we will take good care of you. But unlike the capital or some southern areas, Baoning city is too poor. Even the sixth princes wife and General Qians rtives have to work in nearby tribes. Yesterday, the sixth prince said to General Qian that you are very understanding and reasonable. Ye Xiaoxian smiled brightly. After all, we have a general in our family. We cant be a drag on him. After full discussion, Qiao Hu asked them to pack and leave. Squire Liu and Liu Qianqian decided to go with Ye Xiaoxian. They knew they could live a better life with her. Besides, it was always wise to follow a famous generals rtives. The Tianshan Mountains were indeed very far. Although Qiao Hu let everybody sit on carriages, it still took them a whole day to arrive there. They passed ins and then went through a col. Unlike Qinghe county of hills and rivers, the ins here stretched as far as the eye could see. After that, they saw many towering mountains, among which, the Tianshan Mountains were the most impressive. The snow that had existed for countless years on their peaks ttered their magnificence. The weather was not that cold, so the grass was still green with yellow. Some cows and goats were eating grass in the distance. Sometimes, they could hear the herdsmen singing. As the horizons were broadened, their minds were also widened. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu kept eximing that here was even more picturesque than Qinghe county. They were willing to stay here for their whole lives if they could earn a living. Wong Mudan and Chen Ju also felt d to change the environment. One could have a better mood if he or she went and saw more. Only Old Mr. Xiao cursed, Weve gone too far from our hometown! If I die one day, who can get my corpse back? No one answered him. ... After going a long way, they finally saw a tribe. A man was riding a big horse toward them from the distance. Qiao Hu introduced that he was the tribe leader called Mahal. Since he usually went downtown to do business, he knew Daqisnguage well. Qiao Hu let Mahal take good care of the Xiaos and then left. In his forties, the dark-skinned man wore a cap and a colorful robe like a local in Xinjiang province. However, he appeared to be a crafty man. He had been respectful to everyone before Qiao Hu left. But after that, the smile faded from his face. Chapter 213 - Tianshan Mountains Chapter 213: Tianshan Mountains Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Mahal looked Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions up and down and found that they had carriages and worn fine clothes. Then, he said, Our tribe is a big one in Baoning city. The other tribes are either too dry or too cold. Have you heard about the ming Mountains? The tribe there is too hot for anyone to bear. Besides, it is mostly desert, so nobody will expect a good life there. Hearing that, they felt nervous and also fortunate that they didnt choose the ming Mountains. But Ye Xiaoxian had learned from the documentary that it had enough water and fertile soil to grow grapes. In summer, the locals there usually slept on the roofs. She suspected that Mahal had other intentions. As she had expected, Mahal said, Not anyone could be epted by our tribe. Although we live separately in family units, each family should donate money to the tribe. If you have money, you also need to contribute to our tribal development. Squire Liu retorted, But we are refugees and we dont even have enough food to eat. How could we have extra money to pay for that? Mahal replied, Theres no hurry. You can pay when you have money. If you want to settle down here, you have to work for the tribe. We have farms here, so you can help us herd goats if you want. But we dont have money to pay for you. We can only provide you with two meals a day. Squire Liu asked, What can we eat then? A naan for a meal, Mahal said. The previous two batches of refugees are also herding goats here. Although this is the best tribe, we cant provide you with good living conditions like the downtown. If you herd goats, you can at least fill your bellies. They exchanged a sad look at each other, feeling pessimistic about their future lives. Squire Liu went on asking, We have men to herd goats, but what about women and children? They also need food. Mahal said, They can help milk or shear goats and will also get two naans each day. Two naans were only enough to keep them alive. Ye Xiaoxian also thought of a question. Mr. Mahal, what about ournd? I heard that each family can get a yurt and 10 kilograms of flour. Mahal replied, Yes. But we dont have flour now, so you have to wait for several days. As for the yurts, you can follow me to fetch them now. Ye Xiaoxian liked the scenery here very much. The tribe was sorge that the yurts dotted the ins sparsely. Each family had about two yurts, one for dining and the other for sleeping. The windows were wide open to the blue sky, soft clouds and expansive grasnds. If this was a prosperous dynasty, Ye Xiaoxian could spend a whole day appreciating the scenery. She was looking forward to settling down soon. The young men from the two families all followed Mahal to get the yurts. When they went back, Ye Xiaoxian found the yurts were worn-out with holes all over. Clearly, they were what their previous owners had abandoned. Squire Liu, who also saw the holes, was so shrewd that he didntin about them. ... But Ye Xiaoxian said, Mr. Mahal, I heard that the yurts for refugees are new. The government has promised to subsidize them. Squire Liu pretended to cough, hinting her to mind her words. After all, refugees usually had the lowest status in a strangend. After a sneer, Mahal answered with an affectedly puzzled look, Really? But we dont obtain any subsidies from the government. The yurts are indeed old, but they are still usable. Or you can ask Mr. Qiao about this if he hasnt gone too far. Without doubt, Qiao Hu had gone for so long that they couldnt catch up with him. Ye Xiaoxian had no choices but to swallow her anger. Mahal pointed at a hill and said, You can settle down there. Look, near that tree. She protested, Why cant we settle down right here? Mahal stroked his beard and smirked. Although you are arranged here, you are not the locals. If you live too close to us, Im afraid you will disturb our lives. After all, our living styles are very different, right? She sighed slightly. Anti-foreignism was an inherent weakness for a nation and it was too ubiquitous to avoid. But from another angle, anyone would be annoyed if his or her peaceful life was disturbed by strangers. All right, just keep a safe distance with them. Ye Xiaoxian suggested, Squire Liu, its getting dark. Lets set up the yurts now. I hope we can settle down earlier. Squire Liu agreed at once. Mahalughed and said, You can have a discussion tonight. If you want to herd goats, give me a name list so that I can arrange work for you. Ye Xiaoxian didnt answer. Neither did the others. Who would want to tire himself out for only two naans a day? The Xiaos wouldnt debase themselves, let alone Squire Liu who had been living in clover. ... They paid much effort to drag the yurts and their luggage up the hill. When they unfolded the yurts, they found the wooden pirs were also broken. No one had set up a yurt before. Even if the yurts were good ones, these people would also need a long time to handle them. They began cursing loudly. Bastard! Hes just bullying us! He doesnt give us flour or new yurts but such broken stuff! He is forcing us to be his ves! How can we live in this stuff? Can we cut down the trees nearby? With the wood, we can build a house by ourselves. ... Almost all the people stared at the trees greedily. But Ye Xiaoxian said calmly, Its good to have a wooden house in the southern areas. But its very cold here in winter and wood cant provide shelter from the freezing wind. Besides, it is so hot in summer that a wooden house may burn under the sun. What should we do then? They looked at her helplessly. She proposed, We have no choices but to set up the yurts now. Tomorrow, we can cut some wood in the nearby forest to rece these broken pirs. This was the only solution in this situation. They put down the luggage and began to work. The men rolled up their sleeves and tried setting up the yurts clumsily. At the same time, the women built an oven to cook dinner under Ye Xiaoxians instruction. While the adults were busy, the children also went to pick firewood nearby. When the smoke rose into the sky, all the people sighed with relief. Where there was smoke, there was life and hope. Through the smoke, Ye Xiaoxian gazed at the expansive ins, magnificent snow mountains, lush forests and meandering rivers. The beauty gradually soothed her restless heart. Despite the annoying leader and anti-foreign locals, the scenery here was very charming. As long as they had patience and avoided conflicts with the locals, they would live a steady life sooner orter. The delicious smell of food soon attracted some boys over. Judging by their clothes, they were likely to be the locals. Thanks to the good environment, the local children were quite sturdy. It was said that they learned to ride horses at three or four and followed adults to herd the flocks at five or six. Perhaps influenced by the anti-foreign adults, these boys eyes were full of hostility. Ye Xiaoxian thought the adults must have told them that refugees were ves with the lowest status. At this moment, she was baking pancakes which were simr to naans, the local specialties. The difference was that naans could be stored for longer while baked pancakes tasted fresher. She added some minced bacon bought from Baoning city, making the pancakes even more appetizing. The mouth-watering smell defused the ferocity in the boys eyes. They stared at the food longingly and kept swallowing. She beckoned them over. They believed she was inviting them to eat pancakes and ran over immediately. The Xiaos also thought she wanted to share the food. Little Ye, do you want to give the pancakes to them? They just take us as ves. We dont need to ingratiate ourselves with them. However, she didnt answer or give the pancakes to the boys. Instead, she pointed at the men who were bumbling with the yurts. If you help them, I can then give you pancakes. But the boys didnt understand hernguage. After gesturing for a while, she finally managed to convey her meaning. It was an easy job for them to set up the yurts. They were usually required to help adults do such work, just as the southern children were asked to transnt rice seedlings. After getting Ye Xiaoxians meaning, the boys ran over to offer help instantly. Before that, the men had been in a muddle. They didnt know where to start and were about to quarrel. But with the boys help, they soon set up the yurts sessfully. The broken pirs had been tied up by these children. A little boy pointed at the forest and gestured for the adults to cut some wood to make new pirs. Another boy pointed at the holes on the yurts and then the tribe, telling them where to buy good felt. Ye Xiaoxian was very satisfied with the result and gave the boys some pancakes in return. After eating the food, they ran away instantly. Squire Liu couldnt help praising her, Little Ye, youre so smart to get their help with pancakes. I thought you just wanted to ingratiate them. She replied with a smile and continued backing the pancakes. They had five yurts in total. To make good use of space, men and women had to sleep separately for the time being. One yurt was left for public use, such as holding a meeting, dining, and other collective activities. Chapter 214 - A Game of Wits

Chapter 214: A Game of Wits

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio The yurts were big enough to amodate all the people. They could even separate an inner room into two spaces. As such, Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baozhu and Li Hongmei could sleep together again. Although the yurts were broken, the winter hadnte yet. They could repair the holes before it got colder. The climate here was so dry that they didnt need to bathe every day. So they merely washed their faces and hands and cleaned their bodies with wet towels. They were busy until the evening. Although the yurts were not asfortable as the post house, staying here was much better than wandering in the wilderness. The sun went downter than other ces, so they couldnt tell what time it was. As it got dark, a few stars lit up the sky immediately. Ye Xiaoxian proposed having a meeting about what to do next. When all the people gathered in a yurt, she let Squire Liu hold the meeting. Squire Liu went straight to the point, When we arrived here this afternoon, you also heard what Mahal told us. He said we must listen to him if we want to settle down here. We are neers and dont know much about this ce. We dont have goats or cows. Although we have money, we will run out of it sooner orter. At that time, we have to help the locals with herding. What do you think about this? Ye Xiaoxian was the first to state her views. I think we can live by ourselves rather than relying on the locals. There are many other ways of living except for herding. Xiao Tieshu looked somewhat upset. But we will use out of money one day. How can we earn money at that time? She said, Do you remember what Mr. Qiao told us? People here not only herd goats or cows but also nt potatoes, melons and so forth. As long as we work hard, we can also nt something to eat or to sell. After all, potatoes can be grown anywhere. ... Xiao Tongshu was not convinced. Even if we do so, we have to wait for the harvest for a long time. If we have no money at this time, what can we eat then? Ye Xiaoxian pointed at the mountain behind her and replied, There are many treasures in the mountain. As long as we search carefully, we will definitely find something to sell in downtown. Li Hongmei was surprised. Little Ye, I remember you dont like mountainous areas. You said it was not reliable to live off the mountain. Ye Xiaoxian exined, Its indeed not reliable to live off the mountain all the time. But our environment has changed. Now that we are living at the mountain foot, we must make the best of the present materials. The other people were still muddle-headed. Ye Xiaoxian recalled the scenes in the documentary and said, At present, we can nt potatoes and fruit trees, collect honey from the mountain and sell it in downtown. We have money and food to support us for a period. When Mahales here tomorrow, we can ask him how to trade our products. Squire Liu, can you coax him to tell us more information? The glib talker agreed readily. She continued, We are strangers here, so we should keep a low profile. Dont offend the locals, especially Mahal, or we will be excluded. Wed better be patient and try to integrate into the locals lives. She looked at Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu when she said that. Unsatisfied with the locals, these two men had nned to teach them a lesson. Of course, the lesson was taught by fighting, what they used to do as constables. Hearing what Ye Xiaoxian had said, Squire Liu had greater admiration for her in his heart. He turned to his family members and said, I agree with Little Ye. Were strangers, so we cant cause conflicts with the locals. Otherwise, we will definitely be bullied. Xiao Tieshu protested, But you also saw how Mahal bullied us. He didnt give us flour or new yurts. Ye Xiaoxian reassured him, Uncle, dont worry. He will give back the things that belong to us. Trust me! Just then, her face was lit up red by the mes beside her, lively with hope. ... This night, Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions found it hard to fall asleep. They hadnt limatized themselves to the new environment. It was too quiet in the evening. When they had lived in the vige, they could hear barks from time to time. But here, there was not even a bug to sing a luby to them. However, it was bright outside. Through the windows, they could see the sky studded with twinkling stars that appeared so close to them. Ye Xiaoxian failed to find a word to express her feeling. It was as if she was walking on a ss bridge where she was surrounded by beautiful scenery. The ss gave her a firm footing, but she felt like she would fall into the abyss anytime. It seems that I have to be very cautious and work very hard these days, she thought. ... Mahal came in the next morning. He had heard from the boys that some refugees asked them to help set up yurts and gave them pancakes in return. Mahal couldnt help praising this group of people for being smart enough to bribe the children. It was always easy to make friends with children by showing kindness. He also realized that they were not ordinary people. Otherwise, the official wouldnt send them here in person and they wouldnt have food to eat. The previous refugees had been in rags without food or money when arriving here. It was some kind-hearted locals who made clothes for them. Hey, good morning! How was your sleepst night? Mahal greeted like an oppidan. Last night, Squire Liu and Ye Xiaoxian had had a thorough discussion as to how to coax useful information from Mahal. We all had a sound sleep. This is such a good ce with fresh air and magnificent views. The children in the tribe are also very hospitable. They helped us set up the yurts. Look, they did a good job! Squire Liuughed politely. They wouldnt have helped you if you hadnt tempted them with food, Mahal thought. But instead of stripping away the lie, he answered with a smile. Yes, our children are indeed very warm-hearted. Oh yes, have you decided what to do next? Do you want to herd goats or do something else? You can help us herd the flocks or nt potatoes or wheat. Weckbors in this busy season. Squire Liuughed and said, We are so clumsy that we may do you a disservice. Could you give us some potato seeds and fruit seedlings? We want to grow something here so that we can better adapt to local life. Mahals face darkened. You want to do farming? Yes. Were from the south and weve been farming for generations. Besides, the territory is vast here and we just need a small part of it. Mahal looked reluctant. Ournd has all been distributed to families. Its difficult to reallocate thend for youters. We can ept a far piece ofnd, as long as we can grow something there, Squire Liu insisted. He tucked a silver tael into Mahals hand and continued with a smile, We just need somend, potato seeds and fruit seedlings. I think this is a reasonable request. I promise we wont overstep the boundary. Mahal squeezed the silver tael and rxed his frowns after making sure it was a genuine one. Then, he began asking what backgrounds they had, whether they knew any bigwigs and what rtionship was between them and the official who had sent them here. Ye Xiaoxian had taught Squire Liu how to answer such questions. The official is my friends subordinate. We have a few friends who work for the government of Baoning city, so we could have stayed in downtown. But now its the sixth king who rules this city. He advocates diligence and thrift and requires everyone to work in tribes. Thats why we are here now. Mahal asked, Whats your friend in charge of? The tribal inhabitants were living far away from the capital, so they didnt care about the nobles. Only when it involved their interests would they show due respect to other people. Squire Liu said, I remember hes in charge of, well, trades, all the trades in Baoning city. The tribe of Tianshan Mountains usually traded wool and fruit with other tribes or sold them to other people. Therefore, trades were closely rted to Mahals interests. An ounce of respect appeared in his eyes as he looked at Squire Liu. But he still said in an affected air, Im the leader here. If I give yound, I may be med by other local people. I can give you some seeds and seedlings, but you can only grow them in the distant hill. Thend there is avable. Humph! Its just a small case for you! Squire Liu thought. You have the responsibility to give refugees yurts, flour andnd. You cant take all the benefits, can you? Besides, that is not a fertile ce. Its just a dry windward slope without enough sunlight. But Squire Liu didnt show any dissatisfaction and replied with a smile, Really? Thank you so much. When we harvest, we will donate some money to the tribe. Mahal said, Excellent! When you meet your friend or your friendes here, you can introduce me to him. Of course I will, Squire Liu said. He may soone here. After saying that, he couldnt help cursing internally: Fuck, you wily fox! All right, I will apany you to y this game of wits. ... Finally, Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions got some potato seeds of varying quality, some fragile fruit seedlings and an unsatisfying piece ofnd. But they were better than nothing. Then, it was time to allocate tasks. Chapter 215 - Potatoes and Trees

Chapter 215: Potatoes and Trees

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu had never done any housework or farming before. They knew nothing except for their work as constables. Ye Xiaoxian and Squire Liu arranged them to nt fruit trees together with two servants from the Liu family. The head of the tree-nting team was Wong Mudan. She was excited and proud because she could finally order the men to fetch water or apply fertilizer. Although there were many things to worry about aftering here, Wong Mudan felt d that she had a higher status in the family. She could let the men work and didnt need to face Old Mr. Xiao all day. These men should regret that they had only strength rather than brains. The rest women were responsible for growing potatoes. Liu Qianqian, who also hadnt done any housework, had to get off her high horse this time. Unavoidably, she asked many stupid questions when nting potatoes. Why must we dig holes? Is it proper to pull up weeds to grow potatoes? Will the weeds nearby vie for nutrition with our potatoes? Why must we build a canopy over the potatoes? Can it really keep them warm? Are they also afraid of coldness in winter? ...... Such questions emerged in an endless stream. Chen Ju was the head of the potato-growing team. She used to nt potatoes in the vige and had experience in this aspect. She was very patient in the very beginning and answered all questions Liu Qianqian asked. But then, she asked Ye Xiaoxian secretly, Is Liu Qianqian a fool? Ye Xiaoxian opened her eyes wide at first. After a second, she burst outughing. These wield people were so amusing once they stayed together. At the same time, a servant took the children to pick firewood. The servant was responsible for cutting firewood in the mountain and the children would carry it back. The older children carried a basket and the younger took a bundle. Even Xiao Baoxue, the youngest kid, tried her best to drag some firewood back because Little Ye had told them they must work together to create a better life. Xiao Baofeng didnt follow them to live in the tribe. An officer had taken him away because he would study with the sixth kings children. As for Squire Liu and Old Mr. Xiao, they stayed in the yurts to look after their possessions. ... Although where they lived was far from the tribe, some locals mighte here in the daytime and steal something if they had sticky fingers. The money was kept by several men so that they wouldnt be put in a desperate situation by a single ident. Sometimes, Ye Xiaoxian would ride to the nearby market with Jia Zhenbo and Liu Qianqian. The market was opened to satisfy the locals daily needs. The variety of goods couldntpete with that in downtown, but people could still find many things they needed there, including cooking utensils and felt. Ye Xiaoxian bought some felt to repair the yurts. Then, she asked a servant to cut some wood to rece the broken pirs. Although yurts were also sold in the market, the money she had didnt allow her to enjoy this luxury. Sheforted herself that she would feel warmer huddling together with her family at night. The only pity was that Liu Qianqian and Jia Zhenbo had to sleep separately. But they usually found excuses to go to the back mountain where they might spend a sweet moment together. ... After staying here several days, Ye Xiaoxian found the locals of the Tianshan Mountains and the ming Mountains liked to eat naans. Such food was made of flour, usually fermented, but it was seasoned with salt rather than alkali. Naans could be preserved for days. Since they were chewy, people often dipped them into milk tea before eating. Goat milk, grapes and potatoes were very cheap here. Although Ye Xiaoxian couldnt afford yurts, she usually bought some grapes and milk which could be boiled into milk tea with tea leaves. The southern people were not used to the local milk tea whose strong smell couldnt even be covered by parched rice or sugar. In fact, the locals never put sugar in their milk tea. However, Ye Xiaoxian used a modern way to deodorize the milk. The sweet smell of tea and milk soon won all the peoples favor. A simple meal of milk tea and naans could not only satisfy everyones taste buds but also save some money. Ye Xiaoxian also built an oven with mud near the yurts. She used it to bake western-style bread and barbecue mutton, both of which were absolute delicacies. When the nearby children went there, Ye Xiaoxian would give them some bread and let them do some work like cutting firewood and catching fish from rivers orkes. The vast territory here was sparsely popted, but the fish were abundant especially in a naturalke in the back mountain. The water there was blue under the sky, making it more than bewitching. Ye Xiaoxian usually barbecued the fish or boiled them in a pot. The delicious smell usually made the children drool and swallow. In the blink of an eye, all the children took to Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions. Among them, a little boy led his little horse over and wanted to teach Xiao Baocheng to ride it. ... But Xiao Baocheng was too timid to mount the horse. Irritated, the boy shouted loudly at him in the local dialect. Ye Xiaoxian guessed the boy must have been cursing. ... After nting potatoes and trees, they had to think about how to earn money. That day, they had a meeting again. If they wanted to survive here, they had to get rid of poverty first. But currently, the potato harvests were months away, the time wasnt ripe for growing wheat, and they didnt have enough money to raise goats. Most local families had goats or fruit trees. Some also earned a living by making handicrafts such as yurts and gold and silver pendants. The men of the Xiao family had no idea how to earn money. If they hade here alone, they might have been helping the locals herd goats for two naans a day. Squire Liu was a smart man who wouldnt debase himself as a ve. But he couldnt spend his money without generating any ie. Helplessly, they looked at Ye Xiaoxian in unison. After staying with her for long, they had unconsciously regarded her as their spiritual leader. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu had once looked down their nose at her, but now they were ready to do whatever she told, including fetching water and cutting firewood. Ye Xiaoxian thought for a while and said, These days, Ive gone to the market with Qianqian and Zhenbo several times. The potatoes and apples weve nted can only be sold at a low price in the market. Even if it is time to harvest, we can barely support ourselves. I have no other talents but cooking, so I want to make some snacks and sell them in downtown. But this is just a small business. To support our two families, we need to do more than this. Squire Liu asked, Shall we raise goats? Ye Xiaoxian shook her head. No. The cost is too high. Besides, all the fertile pastures have been upied by local herdsmen. We cant raise cows, either. Their milk is difficult to sell and they dont have long hair for us to shear. The other people asked in chorus, What should we do then? She said, Now we should save as much as we can, having two meals a day and eating more naans. Besides, I need your help when I make snacks to sell. Aunts can take good care of the potatoes and trees. The servants can try to catch fish for two meals in the daytime. As for firewood, we must store enough for the winter. Were all in the same boat at this critical moment, so we must work together to survive and avoid being ves in this tribe. The rest people help me make beehives to gather honey in the mountain and then sell it. Her words virtually inspired her listeners. She gave all the people, including the servants, a feeling that they were very important in this big family living under the same roof. They swore internally that they would try to create a better life in this new environment as she had said. ... It was now autumn when honey was harder to gather than in spring. But when winter came, the honey would have higher nutritive value and be sold at a higher price than spring honey. Ye Xiaoxian knew more or less about how to make beehives to gather honey. A servant of the Liu family also knew a bit because he used to collect honey with his father at a young age. With joint efforts, they managed to make some beehives. Then, they went up the mountain. The mountain gave them a strange feeling and the bees there were also different from those in the south. They were cker, bigger and carried more honey. Without much experience, Ye Xiaoxian had a few swellings caused by the bees stinks. Among them, a big oneid on a corner of her lips evidently. The servants were also stung. But since Ye Xiaoxian bore up well, they also didnt moan over it. After several days, much honey and beeswax could be seen in the beehives. Pleased about the results, they became even more hard-working. Then, Ye Xiaoxian bought many potatoes in the market. She wanted to make them into profitable snacks. The potatoes could be made into either chips or crisps. So she made chips and crisps with salt or with honey. People of all ages loved the snacks which gave them a rich aftertaste. Since there were no such snacks here, they were likely to produce good profits. Because it concerned money, she asked Xiao Tieshu and Jia Zhenbo to sell the snacks in downtown together for mutual supervision. Chapter 216 - The Injured Man

Chapter 216: The Injured Man

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio In the desert of Daan county, a man with wounds all over limped towards a house. His hair was disheveled and his clothes were shed and ragged. The blood on his body had been dried for days. He looked more than confused. His thighs and ankles were too painful for him to walk on, forcing him to pause every few steps. After walking for an unknown number of days, he finally saw the house in this sandy world. There was smoke rising from its chimney, people walking in its yard and many horses standing in its stables. Since it was early in the morning, most customers of Longmen Inn were still sleeping. Only a few workers were busy feeding the horses and preparing food. Among them, a man called Idiot noticed the injured man. Idiot was startled by the neers awesome height and the blood on his body. He thought this man must havee to take revenge on a customer, as often happened in this inn. After all, most customers here had special backgrounds. They were either tomb robbers or criminals who wanted to escape to the border areas. Just when Idiot was about to report this to Jin Xiaoyu, the injured man suddenly fell into the sand. Idiots mind went nk. Longmen Inn was run by a group of gangsters. Sometimes they even sold buns made with human flesh, especially that of the customers killed by their enemies. The inn weed anything that was called meat. Idiot went up and found that the man had barely any breath. As he touched the mans strong muscles, his eyes lit up with excitement at once. Oh my god! If the buns are stuffed with his flesh, they would surely taste better than beef buns. Miss Jin will definitely praise me for being so smart, Idiot thought. He made up his mind and tried to carry the man on his shoulder. But the man was so heavy that Idiot found it hard to do it alone. Therefore, he had to go inside to ask another person for help. ... At that moment, Idiot and Fool were staring greedily at the man lying on arge chopping board. The man had been stripped naked, revealing his full, bronze muscles. His flesh was so resilient that even their prodding fingers would bounce off. Idiot drooled uncontrobly. Last month, they had found a body with muscles only on his chest and the meat had tasted pleasantly chewy. As such, the one this time could undoubtedly be a finer dish and be sold at a high price. Fool urged his brother, Hurry up! We should chop him up before he wakes. Idiot snorted, Hes been badly injured. What can he do even if he wakes up? What if hes difficult to deal with? I dont think so. Hes dying. Anyway, its time to make lunch. If we butcher him now, well have meat to eat. Okay! As the chief cook, Idiot picked up two knives and went to hack away at the mans heart. Just then, the mans eyes suddenly opened. He turned over immediately and evaded the first cut. Idiot couldnt believe his eyes. But then, he said, Oh, youre fast, arent you! But youre my prey now. I wont let you escape! After saying this, he hacked at the man with the knives again. Though seriously injured, the man maintained his strong fighting capacity. The next second, he knocked Idiots knives out of his hands and kicked him two meters away. Idiot was astonished. How could a dying man have such strength? He picked up the knives and rushed at the man again. Seeing this, Fool hurried to offer help. Once again, instinctively the man knocked Idiot and Fool to the ground in just a few seconds. Who dares run riot in my ce? A cold, harsh, feminine voice came from outside. Idiot and Fool hastily asked Jin Xiaoyu for help. Miss Jin, this man hurt us! Please help us teach him a lesson! Miss Jin, please be careful. Hes very formidable. The man turned around and saw Jin Xiaoyu, but he did not immediately attack her. Just then, Jin Xiaoyu also saw the mans face and figure. Suddenly, she took on a sweet look and asked, Oh, what an extraordinary body you have! Who are you? Whats your name? Where are you from? What was his name? Where was he from? The man didnt know. He hade a long way over a mountain before he had arrived here. Why dont you talk? Are you a fool? Getting no answer, she turned to Idiot and Fool and asked, Who is he? Idiot replied, I dont know. He was lying in the desert alone. I guess he was escaping his enemies. Why didnt you tell me sooner? Jin Xiaoyu said angrily. Just let me see how formidable he is, she thought as the man stared nkly at a corner. The next second, she darted at the man. As she was about to seed, the man suddenly turned to her and stretched out a hand to strangle her. But he didnt use much strength and just looked at her quietly. She struggled free at once and leaped to another side, nning to attack him from the rear. However, it was as if the man had eyes in his back. Without turning around, he parried her blow and gripped her wrist. When she kicked at his head, he dodged easily and grasped her ankle. She was then held by the man in an embarrassing and humiliating posture. Irritated, she lifted another leg and swept it at him. The man dodged to one side and held her even more tightly. She was totally pinned down. In theory, a man acting this way would then flirt with her, throw her onto the bed and do whatever he wanted on her. However, the man in front of her didnt have such ideas. Preupied with his own thoughts, he just threw her aside as if she was trash. Jin Xiaoyu became even angrier. Not a single man had ever dumped her when hed got her! The man ignored her and walked straight to the door. He hobbled as he felt the sharp pain from the wounds. Why was he so powerful even with such a miserable body? Jin Xiaoyu was not weak at all! Standing at the door, Idiot and Fool stiffened with fear as the man stumbled towards them. But taking a step out of the door, he paused and then copsed to the ground, his eyes closed. Everyone present was stunned. Idiot walked to him cautiously and gave him a kick. Then, he announced with excitement, Miss Jin, hes fainted! Fool suggested, Lets kill him before he wakes up. Jin Xiaoyu went up and turned the man over. She brushed away the hair on his forehead, studying his facial features carefully. He had thick brows, a straight nose, lips that were dry from dehydration, and dark skin. If his wounds were healed, he would look very handsome and morous. She couldnt help smiling at the thought. Dont kill him. Keep him alive. Idiot asked, Why? He may kill all of us after he wakes up. If he wanted to kill us, he would have done so just now. But he threw you onto the ground! Fool reminded her. She snorted, That was because hes a gentleman. If he were a nasty man, he would have held me in his arms. I havent met a gentleman in a long time. Idiot and Fool exchanged confused looks at one another. She stroked Xiao Baoshans face gently as she ordered, Help him take a bath and then put him in my bedroom. Idiot and Fool understood her meaning at once. Miss Jin has taken to this man and wants him to be her pet. But does she have enough charm to subdue him? ... Xiao Baoshan slept for a long time, until the evening. He dreamed of a woman whose face was blurred. She was sometimes naughty, sometimes gentle, sometimes clingy and sometimes sulking. Besides, she was very ingenious and able to make many delicious delicacies. Who was she? His mother? Or his sister? When he wanted to ask who she was and who he was, he heard a feminine voice, Are you awake? Did you sleep well? He opened his eyes slowly and found a woman sitting in front of him. Was she the one who had fought with him? Or the one in his dream? Or was the woman in his dream merely imagined? She didnt exist in real life? Why are you looking at me that way? Jin Xiaoyu asked with a pout. Are you hungry? Do you want something to eat? Her voice sounded very gentle. But when she stepped out of the bedroom, she became rather fierce. She shouted downstairs, Mrs. Jin, bring a bowl of pork congee to my bedroom! After a while, a maid showed up in her bedroom with a warm bowl of congee. Jin Xiaoyus voice became soft again, I dont know what you like to eat, so I asked the cook to make some congee in the afternoon. Its been heated several times before you woke up. Xiao Baoshan looked at the bowl in her hands and then the minced meat. Suddenly, it urred to him that he had been almost killed like a pig on the chopping board. She knew what he was thinking and exined immediately. Dont worry. This is not human flesh. Its pork. The locals seldom eat pork, so its not easy to get a pig here. Try some and youll see, Im not cheating you. Its delicious. He hadnt eaten anything for days, and had only drank some river water. Knowing that it was not human flesh, he took the bowl and gulped the congee down in a few seconds. She was utterly amazed by the way he enjoyed the congee which was wild but not ill-mannered. He was so tall and masculine with big hands and long fingers. When he finished, she took the bowl and asked sweetly, Could you tell me your name? Chapter 217 - Dati and Guri

Chapter 217: Dati and Guri

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan was lost in deep thought again. He kept asking himself, Who am I? Who on earth am I? Who was the woman in my dream? Who is the woman in front of me? After a long while, he still didnt answer Jin Xiaoyus question. She stroked his cheeks, patted them flirtatiously and asked in a soft voice, You dont want to tell me? Or cant you remember anything? I dont remember who I am, he replied. Dont worry. Theres no hurry. If you have nowhere to go, you can stay here. Take it easy. I wont be hard on you. She giggled. Where is this? he asked. She raised her brows. This is Longmen Inn and Im the owner here. Youre now in my bedroom, lying on my bed. He got up from the bed immediately and said, Im just an outsider. How can I live in your bedroom? She ced her hands on his shoulders. Youve been injured. Its reasonable for you to stay here for a while. He pushed her hands aside and said resolutely, Please arrange another room or a woodshed for me. I just need a small space. Ill remember your kindness forever. Do you really think so? She gave him the d eye. Almost all the male customers wanted to make a pass at her. Except for Mr. Li, who hadest month. Xiao Baoshan avoided her enchanting gaze and replied firmly, Yes, I mean what I say. ... The Tianshan Mountains. Ye Xiaoxians crisps and chips were selling very well. The honeyed crisps were the most popr. Back from town, Xiao Tieshu and Jia Zhenbo said they had quite a few repeat customers who always bought arge packet of crisps at a time. The only trouble was that it was too far to go into town. It had taken the two families a day and a night toe here by carriage. Without the heavy luggage, Xiao Tieshu and Jia Zhenbo still needed a day to ride downtown. Therefore, Ye Xiaoxian would prepare the snacks to sell for two days and also some naan to fill their bellies. At the same time, she arranged for Liu Qianqian and some servants to sell the snacks at the tribal market. Although this was not a very profitable business, the money they earned could more or less cover their daily expenses. One day, Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu went to the riverside to wash clothes as usual. There, they met a woman called Zhi who had also escaped here from the south. Youre so clever. Youve not only broken free from the tribal leaders maniption but also earned money in your own way. When wed just arrived here, we were totally at the mercy of the leader, she said with envy as she washed the clothes. Ye Xiaoxian asked, What about now? Well, its better now. As long as were obedient, the farm owner will give us extra food to eat. Several days ago, he even gave us a small plot to grow vegetables and potatoes. This way, we dont need to eat naan every day. But anyway, I still envy you, Zhi said. Ye Xiaoxian replied with a smile, Things will get better. Dont worry. Zhi asked, Where are you from? Oh, were from Hexin county. We escaped as soon as we heard the bad news. It was so lucky that we left early. I heard that many people have died on the run. Yes, we saw bodies strewn about the whole way here. Ye Xiaoxian sighed slightly. The war is over and we feel a little homesick. But weve lost everything, including our money. Besides, if we go back, wed have to go the same way again. Its too daunting. What about you? Do you want to go back? Zhi was quite talkative because it was not easy to meet someone who spoke the samenguage there. This time, Xiao Baozhu replied instantly and firmly, I dont want to go back. For one thing, she had a bad reputation in Qinghe county. For another, Schr Wong was still there. If she went back, she would be gossiped about for the rest of her life. As for Ye Xiaoxian, she could survive anywhere. If she went back, she had a cozy house to live in. But she would live a life the same as before, selling snacks and feeling no passion. In the past, she could wait in her house for Xiao Baoshan. But now, he might have died. It made no sense for her to go back there. So she said, The scenery here is very beautiful and I feel good living here. It doesnt matter to me whether we go back or not. Xiao Baozhu gave her a grateful look. Hearing this, Zhi murmured, s, the scenery is indeed beautiful, but itll gradually be nothing fresh to you. Oh yes, since I came here early, I know a little local dialect. Yesterday, the farm owner said the tribal leader would ask you for money. Money? What money? Xiao Baozhu asked. Its said youre outsiders and have your own business. So you need to give some money to the tribe, Zhi said. Xiao Baozhu frowned. Thats impossible. We wont pay anything, especially not before he gives us flour. Zhi exined, In this tribe, most people are kind to us. Only a family is an exception. The tribal leader and his wife and daughter are always arrogant and bullying. ... Mahals wife Dati and daughter Guri paid a visit to them by riding there that afternoon. The two women had swarthy faces and hefty bodies. Dati, especially, had a thick waist and a swollen belly which made her look rather fierce on the horse. ording to Zhi, many people were afraid of her. Dati and Guri could speak a littlemonnguage, though not as good as Mahal. After they dismounted the horses, they asked, Who is the...boss? They intended to talk to the head of these two families. Squire Liu walked up to them and greeted them with a smile. Good afternoon. How can I help you? Guri asked, You...earn money? He pretended to be puzzled. Huh? What money? Just then, Ye Xiaoxian was baking crisps. Guri pointed at the crisps and asked, Earn money...by these? Squire Liu understood her meaning, but he acted like he was perplexed. In fact, Ye Xiaoxian had told him what she had heard from Zhi and asked him to muddle through it. Then, he gave some crisps to Dati and Guri and said withughter, I see. You want to eat some crisps, right? No problem. You can have some here or take some away. Dati exined, No, no crisps. Money. Squire Liu waved his hands hurriedly. No, no, no! We cant take your money. Youre Mahals wife and daughter. How can we take your money? Please dont persuade me. Thats my principle. Dati and Guri grew irritated after several attempts to convey their meaning. Finally, they left, muttering and swearing. If Mahal hadnt gone downtown for business, they wouldnt have had a chance to do this. ... Mahal returned from his journey the next afternoon. On seeing him, Dati and Guriined at once that the new refugees didnt cooperate with them and that they had pretended to be ignorant when they needed to pay up. Mahal said, Perhaps they really didnt get your meaning? He was keenly aware of how heavy Datis and Guris ents were. It was reasonable if one couldnt understand what they said. Guri replied, Who knows? We gestured to them and they gestured back. They even gave us a packet of crisps somewhat hospitably. Guri had almost finished the crisps. They were the most delicious snacks she had ever eaten. She was itching to get another packet! Mahal stroked his beard, thinking about how to collect money from the refugees. He was too busy to handle such a trivial matter. Since he let Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions settle down in a remote ce, he had to ride over there and waste a lot of time. Apart from them, other refugees were also difficult tomunicate with. It was said that a new batch of refugees would arrive in two days. At that time, he would also spend a lot of time getting them to understand his meaning. All right. Now that theyve just begun their business, they wont have much money now. I should solve thenguage problem first. In the tribe, there was a woman called Dilly who knew both the local dialect and themonnguage. Born in the south, she had married a local man 20 years ago. Being half-local, she was now excellent in the dialect. It was also she who taught Mahal to speak themonnguage. So Mahal said to Dati, Go and visit Dilly tomorrow and persuade her to teach the refugees our dialect. All the refugees should learn ournguage well so that they can integrate into our tribe faster. Itll also be convenient for us to manage these people. Dati and Guri nodded in approval. Guri offered to be a supervisor, to urge the refugees to study by beating anyone disobedient with a whip. Mahal was a man who always danced to his daughters tune. Considering the necessity of her role, he agreed immediately. ... Soon, Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were informed that everybody had to learn the local dialect. The study time was set in the early morning so that it wouldnt dy the farm work. So all the refugees began to learn the dialect, except for Xiao Tieshu and Jia Zhenbo who had to do business downtown. However, these two men also learned a little of thenguage while selling snacks to the local people. In fact, they learned faster than the refugees in the tribe. As for the three kids of the Xiao family, they had many chances to speak dialect when ying with the local children. Xiao Baoyang, especially, could say many dialect words now. Byparison, the adults really had to struggle to learn. When they arrived at the site in the morning, they found a middle-aged woman waiting there. Unlike the locals, she was petite andely in her 40s, just like ady from the south. Both her appearance and her manner gave people a feeling of elegance and refinement. Chapter 218 - Language Class

Chapter 218: Language ss

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio There were about 30 refugees who came to learn the dialect. Living far apart from each other, they had never met before. For one thing, the tribe was too vast. For another, the tribal leader didnt want to see them make trouble together. So at this moment, they felt more than excited. They greeted each other and asked all kinds of questions like where are you from, do you have any rtives, where are you living what do you do now. Dati and Guri were irritated by this harmonious sight. Guri cracked her whip at the ground, raising des of grass, which gave the refugees quite a start. Dont, talk! Guri warned viciously. There was a deafening silence. Satisfied with the effect, she revealed a triumphant smile. Just then, the petite woman said, Is everybody here? If so, lets begin our ss. First, Id like to introduce myself. My name is Dilly and Im also from the southern area. You can call me Auntie Dilly or just Dilly. Compared with Dati and Guri, Dilly looked much gentler and kinder. For the refugees, it was rare to see a local who spoke theirnguage so well. Attracted by her amiability, they listened to her carefully. She continued, Before we learn thenguage systematically, Id like to introduce the tribe of Tianshan Mountains to you. As you can see, Tianshan is a series of lofty mountains in the distance. In the local dialect, it is called... While she introduced the tribe, she taught people how to pronounce the words correctly. Then, she taught them some useful expressions like how to greet the locals. After that, she also told them about the local customs and taboos. The two-hour ss turned out to be a fruitful start for the refugees. When it was over, they rigorously practiced thenguage with each other. Anyway, it was a long way back. Ye Xiaoxian and Squire Liu decided to have more contact with Dilly who might bring unexpected benefits to them. ... Apart from making crisps, Ye Xiaoxian sometimes went to the market to observe the local habits and to seek out a business opportunity. After days of observation, she worked out a n. But without enough money, she couldnt execute it right away. The top priority was to solve their immediate problem of survival. The weather became a little colder. The temperature here varied greatly between day and night and it was freezing cold in winter. The cloth shoes and the clothes they had bought were too thin to keep them warm. Only the local sheepskin coats and woolen boots would help. Wong Mudan was the least afraid of the cold among these people. She had never worn cloth shoes or socks to keep warm in the south. A pair of straw sandals had been enough to get her through a whole year. But here, even she couldnt bear the frost at night. Ye Xiaoxian decided to buy some new clothes. She discussed with Squire Liu whether the two families would buy them together or separately. If together, the clothing style for all the people, including the servants, would be the same. If separately, she would only buy for her own family. Squire Liu naturally agreed with the first n. It would be more convenient and perhaps cheaper to buy in bulk. Besides, the servants had been protecting the two families the entire way. After settling down here, they were also the ones who worked the most. If given sries, they might have earned the most money. So, it was reasonable to count them in. One day, Ye Xiaoxian had a chat with Dilly after thenguage ss. Auntie Dilly, its getting colder now, but werecking winter clothes. Could you tell me where to buy cheap fabric and wool? Dilly had a good impression of Ye Xiaoxian, as she was always ready to answer or ask questions in ss and learned quickly. She said in a friendly tone, Do you want to buy ready-made clothes or just materials? Ye Xiaoxian replied sheepishly, Its good to have ready-made ones if they are not so expensive. We need quite a lot, so wed better buy fabric and sew them ourselves. After all, we have nothing but manpower. Oh, youre quite good at budgeting, Dilly praised. Guri had been watching the other refugees leave. When she turned around, she found Ye Xiaoxian was talking with Dilly alone, which annoyed her greatly, so she waved her whip and hit it loudly on the grass near Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian was not scared at all. She turned around and asked calmly, Is there a problem? Guri shouted ferociously, Whats wrong with you? The ss is over! Leave here now! Ye Xiaoxian said, I have something to ask Auntie Dilly. No, you cant! Guri then blurted out a stream of words in the local dialect, which confused Ye Xiaoxian a lot. Dilly walked forward and said, Let me talk to this girl. Itll be fine. The outsiders are very cunning. Guri looked very alert. I was once also an outsider. Am I cunning? Dilly refuted. Rendered speechless, Guri could only step aside. Dilly gave Ye Xiaoxian aplimentary smile. Almost everyone, especially the refugees, were afraid of Guri. But just now, Ye Xiaoxian had been cool and fearless, which Dilly admired very much. Dilly said, I can give you some wool which was driedst year. As for fabric, how much do you want? I can help you get some from Auntie Jill whose husband sells it. Perhaps they can give you a discount. Ye Xiaoxian beamed with joy. Thank you! There are about 20 people in our two families. If the fabric has many colors, we can buy more for each. Dilly suggested, Youve been wearing the southern clothes. But now that youre living in this tribe, youd better make the new clothes into local styles. For one thing, it can show your sincerity in wishing to be a part of the tribe. For another, the local styles are more suitable for the climate here. Ye Xiaoxian agreed and asked, But were not that familiar with the local fashion. Could you give us some guidance when we make our clothes? Of course, Dilly said without hesitation. ... After this conversation, Dilly began helping with the fabric. At the same time, Ye Xiaoxian let Li Hongmei, Wong Mudan, Chen Ju, and Old Mrs. Jia to learn how to sew local-style clothes in Dillys home. Guri was strongly opposed to this idea. She wanted the refugees to be ves or tools for making money rather than friends of the tribe! Chapter 219 - A Local Young Man

Chapter 219: A Local Young Man

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Dilly had been speaking for Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions. She said they would be frozen to death without clothes to get through winter, which sessfully silenced Dati and Guri. The women were pretty good at sewing clothes. With Dillys help, the work went on smoothly. After finishing the clothes, they even made a pair of boots for each person. Ye Xiaoxian calcted the cost and found it was one-third cheaper than those ready-made. Dilly really helped them save arge sum of money this time. Ye Xiaoxian wanted to give Dilly some crisps in return. But Dilly seemed uninterested in snacks and declined after trying some. Ye Xiaoxian then went to thekeside with Xiao Baozhu and the two servants responsible for fishing. Since winter wasing, they had to prepare lots of food. In this situation, dried fish was best to supplement protein. Although Ye Xiaoxian knew nothing about fishing, she wanted to see how many fish the servants could catch a day and whether there was a way to improve efficiency. The river was freezing cold and it might soon be icy. There, Ye Xiaoxian saw the servantsting fish on the shore. If they have a boat, they can cast the in the middle of theke and catch more fish, she thought. The servants also had the same idea, but they didnt know how to make a boat. If they simply nailed some wood together, the boat made this way might end up sinking into theke. Theke was so deep and freezing that even a good swimmer might die once he or she fell into it. Does anyone in the tribe know how to make a boat? If someone does, perhaps I can buy or borrow one from him, Ye Xiaoxian thought. On the way back home, Xiao Baozhu noticed something at a river bend downstream and eximed, Sister Ye, Look! Theres a wooden boat! Is it a fishing boat? Lets go and see! Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu soon came to the boat which looked narrowly big enough to hold five people. There was some space in the middle; the fish scales there showed that the boat was indeed used for fishing. The boat was tied to a stake. Its owner was nowhere to be seen. The boats structure was somewhatplicated. Even if they copied it, they would take a long time to cut the wood and made it into nks. Perhaps before the boat was ready, winter would already be upon them. While Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu watched the boat intently, they heard a loud whistle from behind them. They turned around and saw a local young man standing there with a flirtatious look. Xiao Baozhu whispered, He looks frivolous. I dont suppose hes a good guy. Since some locals were xenophobic, Ye Xiaoxian thought it was better not to provoke this man. She smiled politely at him and dragged Xiao Baozhus sleeve. Lets go. But the man walked up to her and asked in the local dialect, You want the boat? Having learned the dialect for a period, Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu could understand do you want, but boat was beyond their vocabries. The man then pointed at the boat and said, Mine. They got his meaning this time. But Ye Xiaoxian felt embarrassed to borrow his boat and stuttered in the localnguage, Well, yes, yes. To her surprise, the man said, Take it. The two women knew these words, but they couldnt believe that he would just lend them the boat like that. Ye Xiaoxian waved her hands. No, no, thanks. With a smile, the man untied the rope from the stake, stepped onto the boat and said to them, Come up. Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu exchanged a look at each other. What would happen if they got on his boat? Would they appear flighty? ording to Dilly, there were not that many rules between men and women in this tribe. A man and a woman could ride a horse together and enjoy the same treatment. The young man pointed upstream where the servants of the Liu family were. Lets go there! Ye Xiaoxian understood his meaning at once. Now that it was going upstream, she didnt think he would do anything indecent to them. So she pulled at Xiao Baozhus sleeve and whispered, Lets go with him. Were on the same boat, so were two against one. He wont hurt us. Hearing that, Xiao Baozhu also climbed into the boat, albeit uneasily. The boat was rocking so much that they almost toppled into the water. Just then, the man grabbed Ye Xiaoxians arm with strength. With his help, she regained her footing and lent a hand to Xiao Baozhu. After the women seating themselves, the man smiled and blew a whistle. Then, he rowed the boat upstream. The river was fairly calm, putting little pressure on the oars. After a while, the man began singing. It was the local folk music, loud yet indescribably beautiful. Ye Xiaoxian studied his profile and found he was quite handsome. To be honest, the straight noses and deep eyes endowed all the locals with the advantage of being good-looking. Of course, Dati and Guri were somehow two exceptions. Ye Xiaoxian asked in the dialect, Whats your name? My name? Im Tarico. All the locals names had special meanings, such as pretty flowers and bright moon. As such, Tarico must also represent something nice. Tarico looked over his shoulder and asked, What about you? Ye Xiaoxian didnt know how to say her name in the dialect, so she replied in her ownnguage, Little Ye. Xiao Baozhu followed, Im Baozhu. Oh, Little Ye and Baozhu. Tarico gave them a carefree yet somewhat frivolous smile. Very soon, the boat had arrived upstream. The two servants there were stunned when they saw Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu on the boat with a local man. After getting off the boat, Ye Xiaoxian asked, You, really, lend the boat, to us? Tarico handed the oars to her and stretched out two fingers with a smile. Two hours before sunset every day. Ye Xiaoxian gestured as she said, Two hours, every day, and return it to you, before sunset? Tarico nodded and gave her a thumbs up. She was worried that he would extort money from them and asked tentatively, Do I need to pay? I mean... money to rent this boat? Tarico pretended to be angry. I wont lend it to you if you give me money. She was speechless. In fact, she would feel more at ease if he charged them rent. Tarico pointed downstream and said, Put the boat in the old ce after using it. Afraid that she didnt get his meaning, he slowed his speech considerately. She nodded at once, showing that she understood. Tarico gave her an unaffected smile, turned around and left right away. After a few steps, he sang a folk song again. Chapter 220 - Taricos Story

Chapter 220: Taricos Story

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio With the boat, the two servants could catch many more fish than before. In the past, they could catch, at most, six fish a day. But now, they were able to about 20 fish within two hours. But Ye Xiaoxian didnt want to owe Tarico a favor and decided to get their own boat. Therefore, she asked another servant to cut more wood so that they could make a boat in winter. One day, Ye Xiaoxian asked Dilly a question about Tarico after thenguage ss. She said, When we caught fish by the river, Tarico lent his boat to us. Auntie Dilly, do you know what kind of person he is? Hearing the name, Dilly smiled involuntarily. Oh, that boy! He has a reputation as a loafer in the tribe. His parents died early, leaving him alone in his family. Since then, he has be so wild that even the tribal leader cant do anything with him. But I know how capable he is. He is good at cutting firewood, fishing, riding and archery; few people can do better than him in these aspects. Two years ago, someone invited him to be an archer, but he refused. He said he wanted to live a free life and to continue his family line as thest surviving member. But actually, the second reason was just his excuse. After all, he loves freedom so much. She added, Although he always ims to continue his family line, he doesnt care about his marriage at all. Quite a few girls want to marry him, but he takes to none of them. That irritates the girls a lot. No one knows what kind of girl he likes. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help smiling. Dilly went on, Im not surprised that he lent you the boat, because hes such a kind-hearted boy. Now that the tribal leader wants to bully you, Tarico will definitely do the opposite. Ye Xiaoxian sighed with relief and said, I see. I thought he would charge us rent, but he didnt. Dilly grinned amiably. Now that you have the boat, you can just seize the opportunity to catch fish. Its very cold in winter. Since you have no cows or goats, you can live here and dont need to move with the herdsmen. If you feel cold, you can consolidate the yurts and prepare more firewood. Ye Xiaoxian replied, Thats just what were doing. Thank you, Auntie Dilly. ... The next day, Ye Xiaoxian specially made a pack of crisps and nned to ce it in Taricos boat. Since Tarico went fishing every day, he would see the crisps when he got in the boat. But just as she got to the boat, a whistle from behind her almost scared her into dropping the crisps. Tarico grinned from ear to ear. It was not a mocking smile but showing a kind of pleasure at his sessful trick. Ye Xiaoxian became calm again and handed the packet to him. Here you go. Thank you for lending the boat to us. Tarico took the pack, opened it and smelled the tempting food inside. As soon as he put a crisp into his mouth, he couldnt help nodding and praised, Delicious! I like it! Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Thank you. I can give you more, if you want. When she was about to leave, Tarico blocked her way. She asked, Whats wrong? But he just grinned and jumped aside. Nothing. Bye bye. Ye Xiaoxian realized he was ying a trick with her and gave him a friendly smile. Then, she left without looking back. ... Apart from making crisps, Ye Xiaoxian now had new work to do: airing the fish. Old Mrs. Jia and Liu Qianqian all came to help her kill the fish, salt them, and hang them under the sun. It waste autumn and it was getting colder. But fortunately, the strong sunlight and the dry weather enabled them to finish the work before winter arrived. The neat rows of dried fish in front of the yurts gave all the people a strong sense of satisfaction. They would have enough meat to eat this winter. Mahal came again that day. It was spected that he was interested in the fish. First, he asked Squire Liu for money. I heard that youre doing business downtown. How much have you earned? Thats none of your business, thought Squire Liu. But he squeezed out a smile and replied, Not that much. As you know, what we sell are just some cheap crisps. A few copper coins per pack, so the money we earn can barely cover our daily expenses. Mahal said, Youve promised to give money to the tribe if you dont help the locals herd goats. Winter ising soon. I think its time for you to pay the money, isnt it? Youre right. But as you can see, there are over 20 people in our two families. How can we survive if we give you money? Humph! I know how cunning you are! Youve asked for so many things from me, but now youre telling me you have no money to pay? Squire Liu exined, You misunderstood me. I just want to know the standard. Now that anyone who can earn money has to pay the fee, what is the standard for us? For example, how much it is per person? Before we came here, the official told us we would be treated the same as the locals. Irritated by Squire Lius words, Mahal snorted, My words are the best standard. It was I who allowed you to live your own way. Dont be so ungrateful! How much should we pay then? Squire Liu asked. Mahal began scrutinizing all the people and then the yurts. His eyes moved from their new clothes and boots to the rows of dried fish and delicious crisps. Two silver taels. It was not much for Squire Liu whose fortune had remained mostly untouched. If they must pay the fee, he could handle it with his private money easily. But being in no way a pushover, he said with a smile, Okay. But when we paid taxes elsewhere, we always got receipts from the government. This is a rule. I think our tribe has the same rule, right? Of course, Mahal didnt want to write a receipt, but how could he reject the temptation of two taels? Besides, where these people lived was quite remote. Even if the government sent people to inspect this tribe, they wouldnt have anything on him. Not a big deal for me, Mahal thought. He pped his thigh and said, All right, I can write a receipt for you now. Do you have a writing brush and ink? Squire Liu replied smartly, Yes. But my vocabry in the local dialect is so limited. What about letting Billy add a dialect version so that the terms are clear to both of us. Mahal became suspicious. Why do you want to make it so detailed? Squire Liu said, Its a rule, isnt it? Weve always done it this way. One will get a receipt when he or she rents a shop or pays taxes. Mahal knew Squire Liu would use this receipt for other purposes, but what could this man do? Will he report what I do to the government? But his rtive in charge of trade downtown cant help him with this at all. Besides, I also have a friend in the government who can protect me. After thinking for a while, Mahal made up his mind. All right, lets go to Dillys house now. When they were about to leave, Mahal looked at the fish greedily. These fish are quite fat, arent they? Squire Liu understood at once the tribal leader wanted to take their fish for free. He generously unhooked two fish and handed them to Mahal. Please take them. Theyll taste more delicious after two days. Mahals eyebrows danced and his spirit soared all of a sudden. ... At dusk, the women made dinner and called everyone over to enjoy it. The meal was far from rich. ced on the table were merely naans, potatoes and cabbage. But Ye Xiaoxian was so ingenious that she could always make the food into various fresh dishes, such as bacon-stuffed naans and stewed fish with cabbage and peppers. So, all the people were excited at mealtimes. This evening, Jia Zhenbo and Xiao Tieshu also returned from the town. The journey was very hard for them because they could only eat naans and sleep in the carriage at night. So every time they got back, they would exim how they had missed the food Ye Xiaoxian made. They even wished that she would open a restaurant downtown. But Ye Xiaoxian just smiled about that. She didnt want to be busy with business again. In fact, she was very pleased with her current life. Every morning, as she walked out of the yurt, she could have a panoramic view of the lofty mountains, spacious grasnd and rivers that glittered like jewels. She also nned to learn how to spur a horse someday so that she could gallop across the grasnd and enjoy her freedom. At this moment, she thought of something and said, Oh yes, Auntie Dilly said the herdsmen would walk two days to pastures where they can raise their goats. Although itll snow here, we can still have fun during winter. For example, we can ski in the mountains. The topic aroused everyones interest at once. The kids, in particr, were more than excited. Xiao Baoyang said the local children told him winter was a very interesting season. But Old Mr. Xiao dampened their spirits. Will Baofeng be back? How are his studies with the Sixth Kings children going? Hell celebrate the Spring Festival with us, right? Everybody fell into silence. Xiao Baofeng was studying in the Sixth Kings pce, which was not an easy ce to get into. Afraid of bothering the king and his nephew, Xiao Tieshu paid only a few visits there although he usually went into town. Ye Xiaoxian said, Uncle Tieshu, you can ask Mr. Li for help next time you go to town. If hes there, perhaps he can help us. ... To their surprise, Li Chengru came to the tribe before Xiao Tieshu went to the town. That day, he rode there on a white horse with a small entourage. Sitting on the same horse with Fengsheng was the boy they missed; Xiao Baofeng. Chapter 221 - Li Chengrus Visit

Chapter 221: Li Chengrus Visit

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Qiao Hu also apanied Li Chengru in going to the tribe. Li Chengru meant to visit Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions this time. But out of courtesy, he had to meet the tribal leader first. It was a good opportunity to test this leaders character. But Mahal was not at home. The tribe was sorge that it was not easy to find a missing man. When Dati learned about Qiao Hus visit, she hurriedly asked her daughter to look for Mahal. After riding quite some distance, Guri finally found her father at the foot of a mountain. She was confused about why her father was there. But time was limited. Dad, the official hase again with a handsome guy. He asked you to go back quickly. Hearing this, Mahal mounted his horse immediately. On the way back, Guri asked, Dad, why did you go there? Nobody lives in that ce. Mahal hummed and hawed. But with the dignity of a father, he said, I just passed by and wanted to see whether there are ces to grow things at that mountain. I have to consider the refugees who mayeter. Guri was convinced. After they went back, Mahal greeted Qiao Hu respectfully. Next to Qiao Hu was a handsome, imposing young man who had an impatient look on his face. A cup of milk tea was ced in front of him, barely drunk and cold. Mahal scolded, Why dont you refill the cup with warm milk tea for our guest? Li Chengru waved his hand. No, thanks. Im not used to this. Only then did Qiao Hu introduce the young man. This is the Seventh King. The Seventh King? No wonder he looks like a man of noble birth! Shocked, Qiao Hu hastened to ask, Is there a problem which brings you here in person? Li Chengru said, Some time ago, my friends were assigned to your tribe. Im wondering how they are doing now. Friends? Which friends? Mahal felt a cold shiver of fear running through him. He had never treated any refugees well. Instead, he either used them as ves or sent them to live far away. Li Chengru frowned at Qiao Hu. Didnt you tell him? Qiao Hu exined, Before we came here, Mrs. Ye told me they didnt need special care from the tribe. So I just escorted them here. They didnt say they were your friends. Li Chengru said, Its okay. No big deal. I believe our tribal leader must have resettled them well, right? Mahal rolled his eyes and thought for a second. Then, he pped his thigh and replied, Yes, Ive resettled them well. When they arrived here, I gave them yurts and taught them how to nt potatoes and trees. Gradually, their lives be better with their own business. Ive also sent a local to teach them the dialect. Now, many locals have a good impression of them. Li Chengru became suspicious when he caught a hint of mischief in Mahals eyes. Good. Then take me to see them. There was a huge difference between going alone and having the tribal leaderspany. If he went with the leader, the leader would bepletely at his disposal. If he went alone, the leader wouldnt admit to his mistakes. After a while, they rode their horses to where Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were living. Li Chengru asked, Why is it so far? Mahal replied timidly, They wanted a plot ofnd to grow something, but most of the pastures have been allocated. Only thisnd is avable, so... they have to live a little far out. Ho ho. At this moment, Ye Xiaoxian was making crisps outside the yurts. When she turned around, she saw a group of people approaching. As they came nearer, she recognized Li Chengru, Mahal and also Qiao Hu. Why is Li Chengru here? Does he get bored in downtown? As they moved closer, she finally noticed Xiao Baofeng. Cheerfully, she shouted at the yurt, Mom, Baofeng is back! Hearing that, Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu hurried outside. Most people had gone to catch fish and cut firewood, so only a few were in the yurts. Learning of the news, Squire Liu and all the others came out at once. In the past, they had usually chatted andughed with Li Chengru, who was just like one of them. But after discovering his identity, none of them dared to talk to him casually. With quick thinking, Squire Liu said to the others instantly, Hurry up! Greet our king! All of a sudden, some knelt to kowtow, some saluted and some bowed. Their ways of greeting were all different, which created a funny effect. Li Chengru sighed softly. Dont stand on ceremony. Just call me Mr. Li as usual, he said. His words rxed them a bit. Xiao Baofeng also ran to Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian. When Ye Xiaoxian invited them in, Li Chengru noticed the patches on the yurts and asked, Whats wrong with these? Didnt my sixth brother give you new yurts? Why are you living in the old ones? Mahals legs trembled uncontrobly. He coughed, trying to stop them from talking nonsense. Of course, Squire Liu was an honest man who never talked nonsense. He only told the truth. Oh? Really? We dont know about that at all. The yurts we got had many holes, but we repaired them ourselves. Li Chengru turned to Mahal, questioning him with his piercing eyes. Thinking fast, Mahal hastily exined, Well... We indeed received some new yurts. But when they came, the yurts hadnt been cleaned. So I let them live in the old ones for a while. Li Chengru asked, Have they been cleaned yet? Ye-yes. Then why dont you give the new yurts to them? Do you think it proper to let so many people live in only three yurts? Mahal wanted to respond that the yurts were big enough to amodate them all. But he couldnt defy a king. I see. I see. Ill give them the new yurtster. After they took their seats, Ye Xiaoxian gave each of them a cup of warm milk tea. The goat milk here was very cheap at 10 yuan per bucket, if calcted in a modern way. It was rich in protein which was good for both adults and childrens health. So, every day, Ye Xiaoxian would cook a pot of milk tea for people to drink. Li Chengru didnt like the milk tea served in Mahals home, but he was soon attracted by the delicious smell as Ye Xiaoxian handed him the cup. As soon as he took a sip of the milk tea, thebined tastes of sweet milk and mellow tea gave him a good appetite. After drinking a cup, he even wanted to have another. Xiao Baofeng was also savoring the milk tea which he had never tasted in the pce. How he wished that he could stay here and drink it every day! Li Chengru put down his cup and turned to Squire Liu. Do you have enough food? Every time Li Chengru asked a question, Mahals hands would shake involuntarily. Yes, I suppose so. Weve nted some potatoes and fruit trees, but we have to wait a time for the harvest. Fortunately, we have some money to support our living. Besides, Little Ye is running a small business and we catch fish every day. So basically, we can manage. Li Chengru asked, Have you eaten all your relief food? Relief food? Squire Liu pretended to be confused. Do we have relief food? Li Chengru gave a fierce look to Mahal again. Mahal excused himself nervously, It was autumn when they came here. Considering their need for food in winter, we decided to distribute it at that time. Oh? How much can we get then? Squire Liu asked. Ten kilograms for each person, Mahal replied. Squire Liu cheered. Great! With that, we can at least get through this winter. When can we get the food then? Mahal said, Tomorrow morning. Well distribute it to you after thenguage ss. Squire Liu praised him. Mr. Mahal is such a good leader. Hes considerate to us in all aspects and even let a teacher teach us the local dialect. His words pleased Mahal greatly. But Li Chengru got Squire Lius implication and asked, Do you need to pay any tuition fees? Of course not. It is included in the taxes. Squire Liu assumed an air of innocence. Taxes? Li Chengru was perplexed. Squire Liu exined, Mr. Mahal said everyone here has to pay taxes. We paid two silver taels yesterday and got a receipt. Mahal rolled his eyes with anger. Squire Liu added, Id say Mr. Mahal is very foresighted. Some people may enjoy the tribal benefits, but say they dont have money when its time to pay taxes. Its wise to collect money early. Am I right, Mr. Mahal? Li Chengru asked, What are the taxes for? Mahal tried desperately to wriggle out of giving a clear answer. Getting no response, Li Chengru said to Qiao Hu, Check if others also pay so much and if the refugees are well looked after. Do a thorough investigation. These days, Li Chengru had been helping his brother with refugee resettlement, so he had the right to manage that. Mahal suddenly felt depressed. With a puzzled look, Squire Liu asked, Mr. Mahal, are you all right? Yes, Im fine, he said as hatred welled up inside him. Well done! Just you wait and see! Ill definitely teach you a lesson! When Mahal expected Li Chengru to leave immediately, this distinguished guest said that he would spend a night here. Of course, Li Chengru stayed to supervise his work. Chapter 222 - Missing the Food She Made

Chapter 222: Missing the Food She Made

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Since Li Chengru wanted to stay there, Mahal had no choices but to give them the new yurts. Otherwise, they would have nowhere to sleep. Besides, Mahal asked a few young guys to help set up the yurts. Tarico was one of them. Actually, Tarico never obeyed Mahals orders. He came here probably because he was curious about the identities of Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions. Before that, he had only known they were more stubborn and more independent-minded than most refugees. So their acquaintance with a king really came as a surprise to him. But he just did his work quietly and sometimes sneaked a look at these people. Li Chengru had brought a lot of food such as bacon, flour, noodles and some local snacks like cheese. These were not rare in big cities, but they were precious in a ce which was short of resources. There was also another reason for Li Chengru to stay. He wanted to taste the food made by Ye Xiaoxian. In Baoning city, some cooks could also make southern cuisine, but he felt something was missing in their dishes. For some unknown reason, he missed the simple food they had to satisfy their hunger during the escape. Fengsheng said the food at that time was not as delicious as that in Li Chengrus memory. When one felt the hungriest, any food presented in front of him would be the most precious. Li Chengru felt it made sense, but he still couldnt forget that tempting smell. Now, he was finally in the tribe. Although he felt too embarrassed to say it, he knew Ye Xiaoxian would cook dinner that night. While the young men were erecting the yurts, Li Chengru came up to Ye Xiaoxian. She was still making honeyed crisps which were enough to sell for two days. What are you doing? he asked. Making crisps. Do you want to try some? she said generously as she pointed at those that were ready in front of her. Help yourself. He pinched a piece with his fingers and put it into his mouth. It tasted as good and crisp as its name implied. Fengsheng is wrong. The food was not delicious because I was hungry. It was delicious because it was made by Ye Xiaoxian. It tastes good, he praised. As Fengsheng walked over, Li Chengru gave a crisp to him. As soon as Fengsheng chewed it, his eyes lit up in amazement. Catching his masters wink, Fengsheng said to Ye Xiaoxian immediately, The food you make is always so delicious. Actually, my master came here mainly because he missed the dishes you cook. Fengsheng said this bluntly before Li Chengru could stop him. Out of anger, Li Chengru kicked Fengsheng hard. Fengsheng showed a pained expression, though he didnt groan. Ye Xiaoxian heard this and joked, Really? Dont you live in the pce? Isnt the food there delicious? Li Chengru said stubbornly, Each has its own characteristics. He wouldnt admit that the dishes she made were better than those in the pce. She smiled. What do you want to eat tonight? Li Chengru believed that she had an instinctive talent for cooking, or she couldnt have made such tasty food in that harsh environment during the escape. With more ingredients now, she must be able to cook something even better. So he said, Anything will be fine. As guests, well eat whatever you make. Okay, she replied. What about naan bread? Some flour has been fermented. As long as they can fill my belly, he said. ... Since Mahal had returned the flour, Ye Xiaoxian said to the young men who helped with the yurts, If you have time tonight, please stay and enjoy dinner with us. While the others were hesitating, Tarico replied immediately, Okay. I stay. After all, he lived alone and could finish his dinner anywhere. Ye Xiaoxian began to make some naans. She added some minced bacon, brought by Li Chengru, into the flour, giving the naans an extra vor. Since southern people didnt like anything chewy, she tried to make the them softer. Then, she cut some dried fish into pieces and cooked a pot of vegetable soup with some home-made seasoning. A meal for 30 people was ready. Most of the adults had dinner inside the yurts, while the children sat in a circle and ate on the grass. The local young men didnt go into the yurts. They probably knew that, in other ces,moners couldnt sit around the same table with those of higher status. Besides, Li Chengrus entourage also had dinner outside with them. Owing to thenguage barrier, Tarico couldnt talk with them. After the food was served, he sipped the soup down and ate some naan bread. The naans tasted yummy and soft. The minced bacon on the surface enriched the vor, giving him a feeling of satisfaction. It seemed that the naans were not only for survival but also for their taste buds. While he enjoyed the dinner, he had a look at the yurt where Ye Xiaoxian was eating something quietly. Sometimes she chatted and sometimes she just smiled. He swallowed thest naan, wiped the oil on his trousers and said to his friends cheerfully, Done. Lets go! His friends, who also finished their meals, rose and followed him away. ... Daunted by Li Chengrus identity, the Xiaos and the Lius appeared nervous and unnatural when the dinner just began. Li Chengru also sensed this. He chewed a naan as he said, Whats wrong with you? Just treat me as you did before. Dont think of me as a king. After all, I have neither tons of gold nor concubines. What kind of king am I? When I told you my identity, none of you believed me. Thinking of how they had ridiculed him at the city gate, all the people burst outughing. The atmosphere was slightly lifted. Squire Liu asked, Mr. Li... Your Highness, what are you doing in Baoning city now? Im helping my brother with refugee resettlement. Basically, all the refugees have been sorted out. What I need to do now is to see whether the refugees have got the relief supplies, which is also the aim of this journey. Xiao Tieshu asked, Well, does the government need morebor? You know, I... I used to be a constable. I dont suppose so. Weve hired quite a few factotums, but well dismiss them after a period. Li Chengru paused for a second and continued, It is not too promising being a constable. Your family needs you more now. When you really settle down here, Ill find you a good job if there are any. Chapter 223 - Theyre Close to Each Other

Chapter 223: Theyre Close to Each Other

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Tieshu pped his head and said in embarrassment, Youre right. I have to sell crisps. Squire Liu asked, Do you know how Qinghe county is now? Now? Li Chengru looked angry. The imperial court has sent new troops to station there and will reallocate thend to peasants. In short, its a reshuffle. I dont advise you to go back, or youll have to start from scratch. Money cant guarantee a peaceful life for you. In my view, youd better settle down here. After all, life is only a few decades. It doesnt matter where we die. That was an indisputable fact. All the people felt somewhat homesick for the county where they couldnt go back. Old Mr. Xiao, especially, lost his appetite for the delicious naan in his hand. He felt like crying. s, if only we hadnt escaped in the first ce. Now we cant go back even if we want to. Xiao Tongshu said, Dad, didnt you hear what Mr. Li said? There will be a reshuffle. Even if you go back, youll be treated as an outsider. Withoutnd, what can you live on? Old Mr. Xiao didnt care about that at all. I just want to... be buried with your mother after I die. They gave up reasoning with him. A thousand times they had told him that all the dead would meet in the afterlife, however far apart they were when they were alive. ... In the evening, the children put the washed bowls into the yurt as Ye Xiaoxian went out to pick some firewood. It waste autumn. The fire was necessary to keep the chill off the yurts in the middle of the night. As she was holding too much firewood at once, some fell to the ground. When she wanted to pick it up, a man appeared and helped her. She turned around and found Li Chengru standing there. She asked, When did you appear behind me? Li Chengru replied, Just now. I felt thirsty and wanted to ask you for some water. Then, I saw you here. Do you want some milk tea? The one you drank in the afternoon? His eyes lit up in the darkness. That will be even better. Ye Xiaoxian put the firewood into the yurt and saw the stove was still heating. Then, she used it to cook a pot of milk tea. While waiting for the milk tea, Li Chengru sat next to her and asked, What do you usually do at night? Ye Xiaoxian stirred the milk tea and said, Nothing particr. The candles are too expensive for us, so we just do some work under the moonlight. He looked up at the sky and saw countless stars. He said, The sky here is much brighter than in town. Yes. If you cant fall asleep at night, you can go out to see the moon and stars. Of course, that is if youre not afraid of the cold. Will it be very cold at night? he asked. As the Sixth Kings brother, he usually lived in the pce where he could enjoy a whole night of warmth from the stove. Ye Xiaoxian replied, It wont be too cold with the stove. But now that were going to be here a long time, I want to make a few kangs (heatable brick beds) so that we can sleep better at night. I know those. Theyre just like a stove. One can burn wood and sometimes steam buns on the bottomyer and sleep on the topyer. Youre quite knowledgeable. Itsmon sense for a traveler like me. Traveler? I thought you were a nobleman who would be well served in the capital. He snorted, I hate living like a puppet at the mercy of others. Then what kind of life do you want? A free and full one like this. Im not restricted and I can help my brother with some work. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Masochist. What? Nothing. ... Under the starry sky, they chatted while enjoying the milk tea. The silhouettes of their backs against the mes looked blessedly harmonious. The other women were making beds in the yurt. Wong Mudan poked her head out from time to time. The more she saw, the more suspicious she felt. She ran up to Li Hongmei and whispered, Why do I feel... the Seventh King and Little Ye are getting quite close? Li Hongmei had the same feeling. But she had kept silent when making her bed, not knowing what to say. Hearing Wong Mudans words, she replied, Little Ye used to run a business and has a more open mind than we do. Shes friendly to everyone and treats a king and a servant equally. Shes more talkative to the Seventh King because they havemon interests. Wong Mudan said, But I feel that he also likes her, or why would hee and stay the night here? You want him to hurry back at night? Besides, he talked to everyone at dinner, not just Little Ye. You know his temperament. He wouldnt have cared about us if we hadnt shared such difficulties together. Now he has more to talk about with Little Ye just because he likes the dishes she makes. As you can see, he loves the milk tea very much. Outspoken by Li Hongmei, Wong Mudan didnt say anything. Li Hongmei crawled under the covers, lost in thought. Little Ye is young. Now that Baoshan is dead, I cant keep her with me all her life. We owe her too much. ... Li Chengru and his entourage left early the next morning. Ye Xiaoxian also got up early to make breakfast and prepare some naans for them to eat on the road. After Li Chengru mounted the horse, he looked over his shoulder for a second. ... In Mahals house. After seeing Li Chengru off, Mahal went back to his yurt. Dati hurried over to him and asked, Has the king gone? Mahal waved his hand and replied, Yes. Dati said angrily, Finally! Because of him, weve lost many things like yurts and flour. The refugees are happy this time! Mahal said, These are theirs after all. Its not a big deal. Not a big deal? We could have kept them for ourselves or sold them in the market to earn lots of money. Its such a pity that he came before we could get rid of them. Sell them? Mahal said. If we had sold them, I would no longer be the tribal leader! What should we do then? Shall we take it all back? Dati asked. No! Do you want me to be arrested by the government? You dont know how angry the Seventh King was when he looked at me! Dont act rashly now. We can talk about itter. Dati gnashed her teeth. Then were just going to let the refugees off like this, especially those two families? Theyre the kings friends and will surely take advantage of us in future! Chapter 224 - Bidding for a Beauty

Chapter 224: Bidding for a Beauty

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio We dont have time for that now. Our first task is to get the herdsmen to another pasture as soon as possible, Mahal said. Winter finally arrived and the pasture here had be almost bare. The herdsmen had to herd the goats to another pasture 30 kilometers away, and spend a long winter there. As for the families without goats, they could stay here or send a few members to go with the migrating group. The Xiaos and the Lius had no goats, so they could just stay in the base for a quiet winter. The potatoes were ripe, the flour and cabbage were well stocked and the pickles were ready in the jars. With two meals a day, they could get through this winter easily without doing extra work. But Ye Xiaoxian didnt want to waste time on hibernation. She believed there was a way to earn money in winter. She knew the locals would nt things like garlic chives under the earth. So she asked the men to dig a cer and sowed the seeds bought from the market in it. She also heard that there were snow lotuses in the Tianshan Mountains. Such nts could serve as precious medicine and be sold at a high price to foreigners. Besides, the southern women were good at needlework. Even Liu Qianqian could sew a beautiful handkerchief. So Ye Xiaoxian purchased some fabric for them to sew into hankies and scarves which could be sold in the market in spring. ... Dilly also stayed at the base rather than following her family to another pasture. Learning this, Ye Xiaoxian visited Dilly with some baked buns and asked whether there were any other ways to make money. She wanted to keep herself busy instead of sleeping all day in the yurt. Dilly was a good storyteller. The local stories and legends she told were so fun and culturally distinctive that they attracted Ye Xiaoxian very much. As for earning money, Dilly thought Ye Xiaoxian had done enough in this aspect and should have a good rest in winter. But if Ye Xiaoxian was really energetic, she could ski on the mountain with the locals, which was an interesting tribal event. It wouldnt hurt if she fell because the soft snow would be very thick. ... When the first snow fell on the tribe, the Xiaos and the Lius were wild with joy. They had thought the snow would freeze their necks, but in fact it was the opposite. It was warmer when it snowed. The yellow grasnd had turned into a white snowfield. What impressive scenery! The children threw themselves into the snowfield excitedly while the adults hesitated. But after the servants rolled themselves in the snow, the others also began having fun. Ye Xiaoxiany down on the field and felt its softness. Then, she started a snowball fight with Xiao Baozhu,ughing just like a child. She found that she hadntughed so happily for a long time. ... While Ye Xiaoxian was ying in the snow, Xiao Baoshan was staying in the desert, which had be drier and colder. Just like Idiot and Fool, he was busy serving food and cleaning tables in Longmen Inn. He was honest, strong and steady when he did his work. He tried his best to satisfy the customers needs, though he didnt like to talk. The customers thought he wad boring and dull and always asked him many questions, but he just smiled in reply. Although it was winter, the customers were as numerous as usual, especially on the days of monthly auctions. Jin Xiaoyu was fierce to Idiot and Fool. When they did anything wrong, she would whip them as punishment. But facing Xiao Baoshan, she was always smiling gently and speaking sweetly. The more carefully he worked, the more she wanted to distract him. Dumb, are you tired? Let me wipe the sweat for you. Its not your duty to feed the horses. Why are you helping Silly with this again? Oh, youre really dumb. ... Xiao Baoshan didnt remember who he was and had nowhere to go after recovering, so he just stayed here as a worker. Being the sixth employee in the inn, he was given the name Dumb. He had been rather disinterested with Jin Xiaoyu. When she wanted to wipe his sweat, he would decline immediately, No, thanks. Then, he would use his sleeve to wipe it by himself. When she wanted to stop the others from pushing work on him, he would just smile faintly. Im fine with it. Theyre busier than me. Dissatisfied with his indifference, she sometimes punished him with cleaning up the horse manure. He would do so at once and even scrape the mangers clean. All her attempts to soften his heart failed as a result. Sometimes she felt so angry that she threatened to drive him away, though she didnt want to really. Dumb was so honest, upright and lovely. No one could be better than him for her to flirt with. ... At thest auction of that year, numerous tomb robbers and collectors gathered in the inn again. Jin Xiaoyu was still the host of the event. Most were regr guests and some were there for the first time. Among the neers was a man called Wolf King who was a tomb robber and martial artist with some fame. He got a wicked idea when he saw Jin Xiaoyu on the stage. When she was giving an opening speech, he interrupted, As I see, apart from these dead treasures, there is a living one on the stage. Thats you, Miss Jin. I heard that the owner of Longmen Inn was a great beauty and my eyes prove that today. Miss Jin, may I ask which is more precious, these treasures or you? What about giving us a price and a chance? Jin Xiaoyu stared at Wolf King fiercely. Mr. Wolf, if you dont want to sleep in the desert at night, please obey the rules here. If you have a fever in your brain, you can drink some mung bean soup to cool off. But if you have a fever in another organ, get out of here and find a prostitute in Daan county. Dont talk nonsense here! But her words didnt irritate Wolf King at all. Instead, he felt she was as hot as a little chili and wanted to conquer her right away. After all, he imed himself as the worlds firstdy killer and believed he could get any woman he desired. He said confidently, Oh, youre hot, arent you? I like it. Give me a price. Let me see whether I can afford it. Then, he turned to the others and hooted, Hey guys! Do you want to bid for Miss Jin? Why dont we show our bids here? Ill put all my treasures here and add 100 silver taels! Among the guests, many had been eager to flirt with Jin Xiaoyu, but they hadnt had a chance because they couldnt defeat her and her people. Now, backed by Wolf King, they also began cheering and whistling. Chapter 225 - Releasing Wolf King

Chapter 225: Releasing Wolf King

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Jin Xiaoyu snorted in an imposing manner, Shut up! Shut up! Do you want me to end the auction and drive you away from my ce? You can take your treasures and leave if you go on like this! The crowd became quiet. So did Wolf King, though with a meaningful smile. Jin Xiaoyu continued with the event. Xiao Baoshan was also busy serving tea and water, and doing whatever else he could do. The auction went on smoothly until it was Wolf Kings turn to show his treasures. He unfolded his bag roughly and shouted, All of these belonged to the previous empress dowager. The jade hairpin, the nine-color gauzy dress she wore when she slept, and the luminous pearl... He cleared his throat. Blow out the candles. Let me show you how amazing it is. As the workers looked to Jin Xiaoyu for agreement, she nodded slightly in approval. After the candles andnterns were dimmed, the hall was still bright. The pearl was shining dazzlingly in the darkness, just like the fullest moon. All the people, including Jin Xiaoyu, were amazed by its brilliance. In the past eight years running this inn, she had never seen such a desirable treasure as this. Someone shouted from below the stage, Mr. Wolf, give us a price! Well start at 100 golden taels! Wolf King shouted. Someone raised the price immediately, 110! 130! 160! ... Then, 200 taels was called. The bidding stopped here. Jin Xiaoyu said, No more bids? If not... sold for 200 taels! At this moment, Wolf King handed the luminous pearl to her. Miss Jin, I have plenty of such treasures and I dont give a shit about these 200 taels. As long as you spend a night with me, you can take this pearl or my money. Hearing this, the money-orienteddy smiled sweetly. Really? Of course! Do you agree or not? I want both the pearl and the other treasures here. Can I? She blinked. Youre asking for too much. He didnt want to go back empty-handed. I thought you were generous. How could I sell myself for a night for only one pearl? Dont think too highly of yourself. Buy me or give up, she said disdainfully. Embarrassed by her words, Wolf Kingpromised and imed, All right! Your attention, everybody! I will spend a night with Miss Jin and will give her all my treasures here in return. Please be my witnesses! The crowd hooted again. Well done, Wolf King! Seize the day and get married! Hahaha! Mr. Wolf, Mrs. Wolf, have a good night! ... Satisfied with the cheers, Wolf Kingughed loudly. Then, he carried Jin Xiaoyu in his arms and headed for his bedroom. The people below the stage were still yelling with excitement. What a bombshell that this amorousdy would give in for money! ... When it became quiet, Xiao Baoshan and his fellows began cleaning tables and washing dishes. Idiot said, Its a busy night again. Fool proposed, Lets sharpen the knives first. Once Miss Jin gives the order, we can then start working. Xiao Baoshan felt somewhat strange. When he turned around, Fool stopped him. Dumb, stay and help us knead the dough. Well have meat buns for breakfast tomorrow. Xiao Baoshan didnt move to offer help. Does Jin Xiaoyu want to kill Wolf King and make him into buns? ... The candles in Wolf Kings room hadnt been blown out. He was breathing heavily with lust, but Jin Xiaoyu insisted that they drink to create a romantic mood before going to bed. He held her rudely and raised her chin. Create a romantic mood? Are you trying to get me drunk or narcotize me so that you can make me into steamed buns? She was dumbfounded. How did he know her way of treating lechers? He burst outughing. You thought Id never investigate you? You sell buns stuffed with human flesh in your inn, dont you? Many of your admirers havee here but never left. Its said they were swallowed by quicksands outside. But you know thats not the truth, right? Her lies exposed, she maintained a calm manner. Oh, dont be so harsh to me. Am I like a vicious woman? Those are just rumors to ruin my reputation. He put his hand on her bosom. If so, let me see what color your heart is. Is it red or ck? Oh, dear! She flirted with him while trying to evade him. Wolf King yed with her at first. But soon, he got impatient and dragged her into his arms. You want to escape? All the people in this inn know you belong to me tonight. Where do you want to go? I... Jin Xiaoyu giggled. The next second, she revealed a fierce look. How could I escape you? She lifted her leg and swept it at his belly. He dodged to one side and she continued kicking. After a while, he roared withughter. Good girl! You still want to trick me, right? Let me teach you a lesson tonight! Wolf King assumed an offensive posture and began fighting with her. Jin Xiaoyu was highly skilled in martial arts and had loyal employees working for her, so she hadnt been afraid of anyone for many years. As for those who made trouble, she had defeated them and cooked them into delicious food. However, Wolf King was more formidable than her. She soon realized that she was no match for him. At this moment, he made a swift turn and pressed her against the bed. Unable to move, she cried, He-help me! Heughed. Its no use calling them. I can defeat them easily. The people in nearby rooms also heard the noise, but they thought Wolf King and Jin Xiaoyu were having great fun with each other. Hearing her distress call, Idiot and Fool rushed upstairs. Wolf King tied her hands and feet together and stuffed her mouth. When Idiot and Fool broke in, he fought with them and subdued them in a minute. Jin Xiaoyu cursed herself. s, Jin Xiaoyu, you have such a great ambition to punish all the lechers in the world. But you finally got yourself into trouble, didnt you? Im afraid youre going to be defiled tonight. All right, its just sleeping with him. It wont kill you. Its not a big deal to yield. As Wolf King was about to pounce on her, another man appeared at the door. When she saw his face, her eyes lit up with hope. Dumb! Fuck! Another one! Would you please give me some peace? Wolf King cursed. Why was it so difficult for him to enjoy a sweet moment? He rushed forward to fight with the neer. Xiao Baoshan faced the challenge. The martial arts in the world could be divided into two categories. One was showy and imposing, while the other was known for practicality and deadly moves. Xiao Baoshans skills belonged to thetter, not as fancy as Wolf Kings but quick to hit the vital parts. A quarter of an hourter, he managed to bring Wolf King under control. Wolf King was surprised at Xiao Baoshans strength and knew he was no match for this opponent. He was also confused about why such a powerful figure was willing to work in this inn. Jin Xiaoyu must have trapped him here by coaxing or cheating, Wolf King thought. He tried to reason with Xiao Baoshan. Brother, if you were present at the auction, you should know this woman has taken all my treasures and money and promised to spend a night with me. But she went back on her word after entering this room and wanted to drug me before making me into buns. She broke her promise first! This man was hisst hope to stay alive. Undoubtedly, it was useless to beg an employee of this inn. How he wished there was someone else to save him! But to his surprise, the man in front of him said, Youre right. Wolf King raised his face in disbelief. You... you really think so? Xiao Baoshan replied, It was Miss Jin who broke her promise first, so you can take your treasures and money back. Mm-Mm, Jin Xiaoyu objected. How could she let go of such a big fish so easily? After releasing Wolf King, Xiao Baoshan walked up to Jin Xiaoyu. But he didnt untie her before carrying her to her bedroom. Regaining his freedom, Wolf King sighed with relief. He watched his treasures. So Im safe now? Will that mane back? Why does he look somewhat dumb? What if he reallyes back? Perhaps Jin Xiaoyu will coax him to kill me! The more Wolf King thought, the more scared he became. He packed up his luggage immediately. But he was afraid that Xiao Baoshan would catch up with him after he left. Hurriedly, he took the luminous pearl and went to find Xiao Baoshan. At this moment, Xiao Baoshan had taken Jin Xiaoyu back to her bedroom, but he still hadnt untied her. She ordered him to release her with her re. But he said, As you dont want to do that with Wolf King, why did you cheat him out of money and even want to kill him? Its wrong. Im sorry I have to keep you like this until he leaves tomorrow. Jin Xiaoyu went crazy. Why is Dumb so dumb? Cant he see such a big luminous pearl? Chapter 226 - An Interesting Man

Chapter 226: An Interesting Man

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio While Jin Xiaoyu was angry, Wolf King came in with the luminous pearl in his arms. He pushed the pearl to Xiao Baoshan at once. Brother, Im also to me for the incident tonight. This luminous pearl is mypensation to you. Ill leave right away. Please dont chase after me. After saying this, he fled as rapidly as his legs could carry him. Xiao Baoshan stared at the pearl nkly. The candles were burning in the room, but the pearl, as big as a muskmelon, totally outshone them. Anyone who saw it felt an urge to take possession of it. Jin Xiaoyus eyes lit up and she grunted, ordering him to give the pearl to her. If this hotheaded man returned the pearl to Wolf King, it would be a great loss for her. Xiao Baoshan removed the cloth from her mouth to see what she wanted to say. Dumb! Release me now! shemanded. He retorted, You cant make trouble tonight. Please sleep first. How can I sleep this way? My hands and feet will be numb tomorrow! Persuaded, he untied her. But at the same time, he struck a certain acupoint to keep her immobile. Dumb, what are you doing? She burst with anger. I told you that you must sleep quietly tonight. I cant let you make trouble again. What if Wolf King brings other people here to take revenge? Ill drive them away. Youre going to chase after him and return the pearl to him, right? You dont want me to stop you! Her words hit home. Xiao Baoshan then remained silent. Dumb, dont be so stupid. He gave you the pearl to repay your kindness for not killing him. If you chase him, hell be more afraid of you. Youd better keep the pearl and let him know there is a price to pay for molesting a woman. Xiao Baoshan was finally convinced. He gave up the idea of returning the pearl. Satisfied with his obedience, she said gently, Dumb, you know howplicated the customers here are. Im always bullied by those men. If I dont teach them a lesson, Ill be always at the mercy of them. But you can refuse them when they take liberties with you. There is no need to tease them. Why cant I respond in kind when they also tease me? Youre a man! You only speak for men! He exined, I mean, you dont necessarily have to kill them. You really are dumb! she cursed. Suddenly, he felt the scene was very familiar, as if he had dreamed about it before. In his dream or memory, there was also a woman who said to him, Youre really dumb! He gazed at Jin Xiaoyu. Is that her? She smiled naughtily. Dumb, why are you looking at me like that? Do you also want to... do something to me? He looked away immediately. No. They why do you watch me sleep? He held the pearl in his arms and said, Ill guard outside. Since Jin Xiaoyu couldnt move, he must guard her lest anybody try to hurt her. She let out a deep sigh. You dont need to go out. Stay here and watch me sleep. But he pushed the door open and walked out as if he didnt hear her words. Jin Xiaoyu was totally freaked out. The acupoint strike would immobilize her for two hours. The candles in the room had been blown out, but thenterns in the corridor still glowed softly, silhouetting Xiao Baoshans figure. She couldnt fall asleep and began teasing him, Dumb, are you cold? He replied, No. But I feel cold. You didnt tuck me in just now. The door creaked open. He walked in and pulled up a nket for her. She gave him a coy smile and said coquettishly, Dumb, have you ever touched a woman before? He thought he had done that only in his dream, so he didnt answer. Dumb, why dont youe and sleep with me? I cant fall asleep and you also cant outside, right? He said honestly, Its not a good idea. Considerately, he tucked the nket in for her. Then, he turned around, ready to go out. She didnt believe he had no feelings for her. Dumb, do you want to know how a woman tastes? He didnt answer. Dumb, am I not attractive enough? she asked. The more rigid he was, the more she wanted to tease him. He went out of the room silently and closed the door. Then, he sat down with the pearl. Dumb, the pearl is of no use for you. How about giving it to me? He replied, Wolf King gave it to me, not you. She said angrily, Without me, you wouldnt have got this pearl! Besides, you live here and eat my food. Youre my people. So your things are mine! I havent asked for any sry. Jin Xiaoyu was rendered speechless. It seemed that Dumb was not dumb at all. He had quite a sober mind. ... Xiao Baoshan had no sense of humor at all. But Jin Xiaoyu liked to make fun of him because he was so lovely. With his protection, she felt exceptionally safe and fell asleep before the acupoint pressure eased off. She woke up at dawn when there was a glimmer of light in the sky. She stretched and found she was limber again. Then, she opened the door to see whether he was still there. But nobody was there. Thenterns along the corridor had gone out. Has Dumb gone back to his room? She felt a little angry. He said he would protect me. Why did he leave before I woke up? Thinking of what he had donest night, she couldnt help cursing him. Dumb! At the same time, she felt more eager to approach him. ... Jin Xiaoyu found Xiao Baoshan outside the kitchen. He lived in the same room with his fellow workers. Although he didnt have a private room, his bed was always clean and tidy. He had the habit of taking showers. Perhaps he came from the south. But his ent was close to that in the capital, which might suggest that he had spent some time there. When Jin Xiaoyu saw him, he was right taking a shower. The ce was usually used to wash vegetables and the employees sometimes took showers there. Idiot and Fool didnt like bathing, often only once a month. But Xiao Baoshan took one once a day, even though it was very cold in the morning. His upper body was naked, exposing his broad shoulders. His muscles looked even more bulging and bouncy as the water flowed down his body. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt help eximing. Every time she saw such a perfect figure, she would be greatly amazed. She had seen many muscr men, but none of them could excel him. There were some long and short scars all over his muscles, creating a breathtaking sense of beauty. Xiao Baoshan heard her voice and turned around. On his chest were also some scars of unknown origin. Seeing Jin Xiaoyu, he reached for his clothes and put them on. Then, he asked, What can I do for you? She giggled with arms akimbo and said in a sweet voice, Why did you take a shower so early? Was it because you couldnt control yourself outside my bedroom? It took a while for him to understand her meaning. He shook his head and replied, No. Liar. But youre not worth a pin to me! She turned around and left, yet with a big smile. ... The Tianshan Mountains. On discovering that there were snow lotuses in the mountains, Ye Xiaoxian thought of what she had seen on TV shows. Snow lotuses were said to be a rare and miraculous medicine for women. The richdies and imperial concubines always collected such lotuses as something precious. A lotus would take five years to blossom and could be only found up mountains at an altitude of over 1,000 meters. Besides, there were always foreigners who came there to buy snow lotuses. The value of a lotus was equal to that of the crisps sold for a month. So she asked if anyone wanted to pick snow lotuses. The others thought she must be mad because it was even colder up the mountains. What if they froze to death halfway up? They needed to wait until spring came. Ye Xiaoxian could only give up the idea. The mountains were nketed with snow and ice. If anyone really got sick from the cold, they would lose more than they gained. There was not much work to do, especially during the Spring Festival, so they followed the locals to go skiing. The locals could make ski boots which were simr to those in modern times. After putting them on, one could slide down from a height. In general, it was an exciting activity, suitable for both men and women. The southern people didnt dare to y the game. But after they saw how fun it was, they also gave it a try. The locals were very enthusiastic. They gave the extra ski boots to the neers and encouraged them to try. Ye Xiaoxian, Liu Qianqian and Jia Zhenbo also went there. But Ye Xiaoxian had been afraid of ying such a thrilling game and just quietly watched the others ski. After Jia Zhenbo got the hang of it, he taught his wife how to ski and left Ye Xiaoxian alone. But she didnt mind that. She felt d seeing her friends having fun. Suddenly, someone sprinkled freezing snow on her head, which gave her the shivers. Who is so rude? She turned around, ready to give that person a re. However, she found it was Tarico. He grinned from ear to ear, holding a pair of ski boots in his hands. It seemed he had juste up. Chapter 227 - Much Like My Mother

Chapter 227: Much Like My Mother

Trantor: Flying Lines & Fan Trantion Studio One who smiled always won forgiveness. Tarico was just like a naughty boy, with whom Ye Xiaoxian couldnt be angry. Why dont you ski? You dont have boots? he asked. Ye Xiaoxian replied with a smile, It has nothing to do with boots. I dont know how to ski. Its very simple. I can teach you, he said. She hesitated, especially after she found physical contact was unavoidable when Jia Zhenbo taught Liu Qianqian how to ski. Apart from them, the other couples were also close to each other when they slid. So Ye Xiaoxian declined politely. Im fine just watching from here. Its boring just watching here. The snow is cold and wet. Tarico tried to persuade her. Ill be leaving soon, She insisted. He grinned. Are you scared? A little bit, she admitted. Wait a moment. He put on his ski boots immediately. Then, he slid down the hill skillfully. After a while, he reappeared dragging a wooden basin with a rope tied to it. He scrambled up the hill and ced the basin in front of her. Sit in it. Sit in here? She thought of the sand-boarding and rafting that she had once seen on television. It must be also very thrilling to slide down here, sitting in the basin. Its safe. No skills are needed. Just sit in it. Tarico exined. Its not polite to decline ones kindness twice, especially after he brought the basin up, Ye Xiaoxian thought. Besides, she had also grown excited at the sight of the wooden basin. On an impulse, she settled herself into it. Tarico helped her hold the basin at first. When she was ready, he gave the basin a push to let it move down slowly. When it reached the middle of the slope, it suddenly sped up. She couldnt help screaming. What an adventure! Tarico followed her down and soon came to her side. He asked with a smile, Is it fun? Yes! she affirmed. Again? Of course! She wanted to drag the basin up by herself, but it was too heavy to move. Tarico took it at once and put his boots in it. Ill do it. Like this, she would be side by side with him. Keeping a distance, she didnt feel embarrassed with him. Since she knew his story from Dilly, she had deemed him a good man who she didnt need to guard against. Tarico was very talkative the whole way. Is the man who came here that day your husband? Who? She was surprised by his question. The king, he said. Oh, him! Sheughed as she panted and climbed up. You misunderstand. How could he be my husband? Why not? He was confused. It urred to her that the ss divide was not that serious in this tribe. So she exined, Those in the royal family cant marry ordinary people. Im just amoner. Since Tarico usually wandered around, he knew the people elsewhere indeed had such social rules. But he asked, He likes you, or you also like him? She burst intoughter. Thats impossible. Its all in your mind. Liu Qianqian had also teased her about this after Li Chengru had left that day. The other people even supported her being with Li Chengru, though she might be a concubine as she didnt have a strong background. They said nothing would matter as long as he treated her well. Ye Xiaoxian thought they must have let their imagination run riot. For one thing, she didnt want to be a concubine. For another, Li Chengru wouldnt fall in love with a widow. Anyway, she didnt want to get herself involved in such a drama of pce intrigue. She knew she was not smart enough to survive one episode if she was put in a TV series of that kind. So she was serious when she asked the others not to joke about this. Just like them, she treated him as an ordinary friend who had once shared great difficulties with them. ... Reassured by her certitude, Tarico didnt ask anymore. She joked, Why are you so... Since she didnt know how to say nosy in the local dialect, she finally used, much like my mother. He got her meaning and gave her a big smile. Im just curious. Then, he took out his ski boots and handed them to her. Grab them. Ill pull you up. Ye Xiaoxian panted heavily as she climbed up. After all, it was her first time walking in deep snow, which was almost as difficult as swimming for a beginner. So, she stretched out her hands and grabbed the boots without hesitation. Then, he began helping her up in front, which saved her a great deal of energy. Soon, they reached the top and darted down happily once more with the basin and boots. Ye Xiaoxian had a great time that day. But she didnt notice the curiosity in the locals eyes as they looked at her and Tarico. ... Bored at home, Ye Xiaoxian began making potato pies. The pies proved to be a great sess. All herpanions loved them very much. Therefore, she nned to give some pies to Dilly and chat with her. Since it was freezing cold outside, the food would easily turn cool. So she made a simple thermal box, cing food in the topyer and hot water in the bottomyer. This way, the pies could remain warm when Dilly ate them. Then, she trudged through the snow to Dillys house Delighted by Ye Xiaoxians visit, Dilly weed her to the yurt hospitably. The stove was burning, on top of which was a pot of hot water. It was much warmer inside. Ye Xiaoxian took off her coat and blew on her hands to warm them up. After a while, she opened the box. Auntie Dilly, Ive brought some potato pies for you. Please try some. Oh, thank you! Dilly took out a piece of pie and had a bite. She savored it and said that she liked it very much and that it reminded her of her hometown. Then, she asked, I remember you nned to pick snow lotuses in the mountains, right? Did you do it? No, Ye Xiaoxian said with a sigh. Theyre worried about being frozen to death. Dillyughed. Indeed, it requires courage and also a localspany, or you wont know what to do when facing heavy snow. I suggest you go in spring. She thought for a while and went on, But you can go fishing. Ye Xiaoxian had also learned from some documentaries that one could catch fish in winter even when the river was frozen. But she didnt know the specific method. Dilly advised, You can ask Tarico. He also catches fish in winter. Oh yes, you can have hispany when you pick snow lotuses. Hes a master in this. I remember he once picked five lotuses in a day. The others might explore the mountains twice without finding any. Chapter 228 - A Free Goat

Chapter 228: A Free Goat

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Soon, the winter was over. It was now spring and the frozen river began to melt. Ye Xiaoxian went to the riverside to watch the scene with interest. The ice blocks floated on the surface and became gradually smaller as they flowed downstream. The frost on the trees nking the river also started to thaw, with leaf-shoots sprouting on some branches. The snow over the grasnd was also receding. On removing the snow, one could see tender grass poking out of the soil. Everything was thriving with new hope. ording to Dilly, after the ice and snow melted, the herdsmen would then be back. Then, herds of cows and goats would enliven the tribe again. To earn money, Ye Xiaoxian began to make crisps again. At the same time, she asked the servant responsible for fetching firewood to hunt some game if there was any. Sometimes, she would go uphill with him and the children. As it became warmer, the potherbs began flourishing. Ye Xiaoxian had once studied potherbs in modern times, so she could recognize some edible nts. In digging potherbs from the snow, her fingers would always be red with the cold. But she had grown tired of potatoes, cabbages and chives which she had eaten for a whole winter. In this situation, green vegetables were of great appeal to her. So, every time she went uphill, she would pick a full basket of potherbs which could be made into soup and cakes. If there were any left, she would fry them as a dish for dinner. As soon as they were served, they would be eaten up in a minute. Southern people, especially those from Qinghe county, liked vegetables very much. It would be a torture for them not to eat vegetables for over three days. After a period, the ice was totally gone and the grasnd was light green again. At this time, the herdsmen came back. There were quite a few festivals in early spring here. Among them, the Festival of Sacrifice was a big one. On this day, to obtain good fortune, each local family would kill a goat as a sacrifice to Heaven. After that, they would gather to sing, dance, ride horses and shoot arrows. Mahal and his family were also back. Since he was the leader and had many goats, he needed to kill three to ce in the middle of the altars. One day, a tribal senior asked Mahal, Shall we let the refugees who camest year join the ceremony? Mahal wanted to say no because they had no goats at all. But he remembered how Li Chengru had criticized him for not treating the refugees fairly and not setting a good example to the locals. He was worried that Squire Liu wouldin to Li Chengru again, so he said, They can join the ceremony. But if they dont have goats, they should pay money. If they dont have money, they should help kill the goats. Anyway, they cant be freeloaders. It was mainly because after the ceremony, there would be a bonfire party where all the people would sit in a circle and eat roast mutton. It was still Dati and Guri who were responsible formunicating with the refugees. They started with those nearest and moved on to those living further away. First, they informed the local farmers that the refugees could participate in the festival, as long as they helped ughter the goats or paid money. Or the farmers could just count the refugees as their family members. Some farmers were as mean as Mahal. The refugees had just returned from their migration, so they didnt have any money to pay at all. Besides, each family only needed to kill one goat, which was too simple to be regarded as work. So, these farmers said the refugees working for them wouldnt join the festival because they still needed to herd and feed goats on that day. Byparison, some kind-hearted farmers wrote the refugees names into their family member list. For example, after Dillys husband and son got back, she took the two refugees assigned to their farm as their family members. The Xiaos and the Lius were thest to be informed. Hey! Whos in charge here? Come out! Dati shouted. So Squire Liu, who was responsible for negotiation, hurried out with a smile. Are you going to join the Festival of Sacrifice? Dati shouted to him on horseback. Dilly had introduced this festival to the refugees the day before, so Squire Liu knew what it was about. In fact, duringst nights dinner, the Lius and the Xiaos had agreed that they should all join the festival if they could. This way, they could more easily build friendships with the locals. Yes, well all go there, Squire Liu said to Dati. Dati exined the rules impatiently. Then you have two choices. First, pay money or sacrifice a goat. Second, help kill the goats or do some other work. He asked, Pay money? How much? There are many people in your two families, so at least 10 silver taels. You can eat two goats then, said Dati. Squire Liu gasped in surprise. Ten silver taels were enough to buy half a camel or five goats. This was not a fair deal. As he hesitated, he heard the tter of a horses hoofs from the distance. Tarico was approaching. He looked very cool galloping on a brown horse across the grasnd. Seeing him, Guri blushed and tensed her thighs involuntarily, which rmed her horse into stepping back slightly. When Tarico came up to them, he held the reins immediately. The horse stopped steadily in front of Dati. Tarico, why did youe here? Dati was unkind to him. In her view, he was just a loafer who seldom obeyed the tribal leader. How could he mix with the refugees when the tribal leader disliked them? She had heard that he even lent the refugees his boat for fishing and taught them how to catch fish in winter, a precious skill passed on by his father! Tarico asked, Are you inviting them to the Festival of Sacrifice? Are there any conditions? What are they? What are you asking so many questions? Its none of your business! Dati said. But Guri replied involuntarily, They have to pay 10 silver taels, sacrifice a goat or help us do some work. Well, they can sacrifice a goat. I have one for them. Then, he turned to Squire Liu and said, I have a few goats and I can sell one to you at a low price. I... Squire Liu hesitated. Dati asked, You sell to them? How much? Tarico said, One silver tael. You... She was almost driven mad. Her original intention was to let them pay 10 silver taels for two goats. Are you a fool? she cursed. I raise the goats to eat. Now that someone wants a goat, why cant I sell one to him? Tarico retorted. Then, he asked Squire Liu, Do you want it or not? I can sell you only one goat. Squire Liu couldnt make up his mind. It was said that Tarico had no parents. The goats might be an important source of ie for him. Was it appropriate to take advantage of him? Dont act like Little Yes mother, Tarico said in the way Ye Xiaoxian had once said to him. Ill bring the goat to you on the day. Chapter 229 - Guris Affection for Tarico

Chapter 229: Guris Affection for Tarico

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio After saying what he wanted to say, Tarico rode away without looking back at Dati and Guri. The two women went back in a huff. Both of them looked unhappy. Why is Tarico always against us? If your father dislikes anything, Tarico will do it on purpose! Does he think all the people in our tribe owe him something? Guri remained silent. Her mind was all over the ce. Tarico hadnt looked at her once just now! ... After going back, Guri hastened to find a local girl who lived near Tarico. This girl hadnt followed the migration group and instead stayed in the tribe for a whole winter. Hey, I have something to ask you. Did you go skiing this winter? Guri asked. It was publicly known that Guri liked Tarico, so this girl understood her meaning at once. Yes, she said. You want to ask if Tarico went skiing, right? Guri replied indirectly, Now that you know this, just tell me! The girl just giggled. Guri could only take out a package of cheese prepared in advance and handed it to the girl. Now you can tell me. What did he do this winter? Who did he mix with? The girl took the cheese and said with a grin, I dont know much. Except for fishing or riding, he also usually stayed at home. But one day, I saw him skiing with a refugee woman very happily. Which woman? Guri resisted the impulse to crack her whip. The one who asks Auntie Dilly questions all the time of course. Tarico likes Auntie Dilly. So does that woman. Maybe they often date in Auntie Dillys house secretly. Hearing that, Guri became even angrier. Needless to say, it must be Ye Xiaoxian. Noticing Guris fury, the girl continued, You like Tarico, right? But your parents dont like him. Is there any future between you and him? Its none of your business! Guri mounted the horse and rode away. The girl held the cheese and cursed at Guris back. Who do you think you are? A princess? How could Tarico like you? ... After Ye Xiaoxian returned from collecting potherbs, she heard about the Festival of Sacrifice and also how Tarico had embarrassed Dati by selling them a goat for only one silver tael. She couldnt helpughing. This was indeed what a man like him would do. She didnt feel it strange for Tarico to do so, but Squire Liu asked her secretly, In your opinion, why Tarico is so kind to us? She said, Hes a nice guy. Theres always such a person wherever we go. I dont feel the same. He may have an intention, and that may be you. She shook her head immediately. Squire Liu, please dont think that way. Even if hes helping me, thats because were friends and havemon topics to talk about, like the cooperation over the camel team. Theres nothing more. Squire Liu said, All right, but have you ever thought of marrying a local man? Marrying? She shook her head again. No, Ive never thought about that. Squire Liu took on a serious tone. After living together for so long, I know youre a good woman. Your mother also supports you to remarry. If you want to marry, I think Tarico is a good choice as long as you like each other. He doesnt have parents, so he can choose who he marries by himself. She declined resolutely, Oh, please dont joke. I dont want to remarry. Please dont talk about Tarico that way, or I couldnt have normal contact with him anymore. No, not just him, I wouldnt talk to any men in the tribe! Hearing that, Squire Liu could only shut his mouth. ... The day before the Festival of Sacrifice, Li Chengru came to the tribe again. His entourage was the same asst time. He hade here this time just to have fun at the Festival of Sacrifice. So he also brought six goats over, three for the tribe and three for the two families. Mahal felt fortunate that he hadnt done anything to provoke the Seventh King. It was such a blessing that Tarico had stopped Dati and Guri from charging 10 silver taels, or Squire Liu would tell the Seventh King about his heartless exploitation. If so, the Seventh King would certainly fly into a rage again. After an impatient meeting with Mahal, Li Chengru took his people to Ye Xiaoxians house. Seeing him, the Xiaos and the Lius became wild with joy. They hadnt expected him toe again after a long cold winter. They had even been worried that he had returned to the capital and could no longer protect them. So, they invited them into the yurt hospitably. Some went to chop firewood, some prepared the food and some poured tea for the guests. On sitting down, Li Chengru said, Little Ye, I miss the milk tea I drankst time. I could drink a huge pot of it this time. He said this as if talking to a friend. Ye Xiaoxian didnt think in terms of hierarchy or consider him as a king. I happened to have made milk teast time, but now as you can see, theres none. To cook milk tea, I have to buy milk and boil tea. Its too troublesome. But I dont drink anything else except for that. She smiled. Do you want to try some honey-jujube tea I newly made. The honey and jujubes were all collected from the mountain. I promise it tastes as good as milk tea. Everything she makes is delicious. I may as well try some, he thought. After a sip of it, he felt fascinated and drank one after another cups of the new drink, relegating milk tea to the back of his mind. Fengsheng was worried that his master would rush to the toilet after a while. Learning that Li Chengru would give them three goats, Xiao Tieshu asked Squire Liu, What about Taricos goat? Are we going to buy it or not? Squire Liu said resolutely, No. We have goats now. Its not a fair deal for him to sell the goat for only one silver tael. Then, he turned to a servant and told him to inform Tarico that he didnt need to bring a goat over tomorrow because they had goats now. Li Chengru asked, You have to buy a goat to join the festival? How much is a goat? Squire Liu replied, A few days ago, the leaders wife came here and said that if we want to join the festival, we have to pay money, sacrifice a goat or work for them. If we pay money, we have to give her 10 silver taels and will get two goats. If we dont have money, we need to work for them. Its a good choice to help with work, but some refugees dont have a chance to join the ceremony at all. They say they have to feed goats on that day. But the goats eat grass, dont they? They just herd the goats to the pasture in the morning and drive them back in the evening. They dont need to watch the goats eat all day! Its obvious that the leader doesnt want their participation and the farmers dont want to pay for them. Li Chengrus face suddenly fell. Chapter 230 - Dancing at the Festival of Sacrifice

Chapter 230: Dancing at the Festival of Sacrifice

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Mahal thought he had muddled through the officials inspection. But at dusk, Qiao Hu went to his house again. When asked if he was stopping the refugees from joining the festival, Mahal began humming and hawing. He tried to excuse his behavior, I dont mean to stop them, but there are so many refugees here. If all of them participate, Im afraid the farmers willin. After all, every family will kill a goat to share that day, but the refugees havent made any contributions. Qiao Hu snorted, They havent made any contributions? Havent they herded goats for you? I heard that they dont have sries but only get two naans a day. Now it is the Festival of Sacrifice. If you dont let the people celebrate it, what the point of having it? Just to please Heaven? Mahal was speechless. Qiao Hu continued, Go and tell the refugees that all of them can celebrate the festival tomorrow. The goats can eat grass by themselves. They dont need to be fed, do they? ... Mahal could only do as Qiao Hu said. Dati and Guri were also required to go with him. ... Taricos house. Tarico was braising fish at the door. After eating the fish that Ye Xiaoxian made, he had also braised fish several times. The fish he cooked tasted better and better and was now simr to hers. As he enjoyed his dinner, a servant from the Liu family came up to him. The servant was called Wu. He usually met Tarico while fishing, so they were now acquainted with one another. Although Wu was not fluent in the local dialect, Tarico could understand his meaning by his bodynguage. Tarico, good evening, Wu greeted with a big smile. Tarico said hospitably, Have you had dinner? Sit down and join me. Wu waved his hand. No, thanks. I can eat back home. I came here for the goat. Ill ughter the goat tomorrow morning. If you want it earlier, you cane here to take it then. Tarico thought Wu came to confirm the thing about the goat. After all, it sounded like a joke to sell a goat for one silver tael. But Wuughed. No, we dont need your goat. We have goats now. Oh? Tarico was surprised. Wu stretched out three fingers and said with excitement, The Seventh King came here and gave us three goats. Hes here again? Tarico asked. Yes! Thanks to him, we have three goats now. Hahaha! So we dont need your goat and you can keep it for yourself. Wu said this out of good will. Now that the Seventh King had given them the goats, Tarico then wouldnt suffer any loss. But hearing this, Tarico looked somewhat upset. Tarico, are you all right? Wu sensed that Tarico was not happy. But Tarico just smiled and said, Im fine. Now that you have goats, you dont need to buy mine. Wu didnt think much about the reason why Tarico was unhappy. Apart from goats, the Seventh King has also brought us many other things. Hes such a nice man. I didnt expect him to remember us after the journey, let alone visit us so frequently. Tarico smiled in reply. After Wu left, Tarico looked at the braised fish in the pot, but he suddenly had no appetite for it. ... The Festival of Sacrifice finally kicked off. It was a very grand asion. All the people gathered on the grasnd, facing the rising sun. In front of them were dozens of alters filled with roast mutton, fruit and snacks. The local wizards and seniors murmured on the stage, dancing a strange kind of dance. It was said to dispel any bad luck from the previous year and wee good luck for the new year. The refugees were standing at the back with solemn expressions. No one made a noise orughed at these strange rituals. After all, this was a meaningful ceremony for the locals. Li Chengru was also standing quietly in the front. As a distinguished guest, he could enjoy the best position. When the ceremony was over, all the people became rxed. Mahal announced tht it was time for revelry C eating and drinking! People took back their roast mutton, set up the grills and used the fire to reheat the food. Then, they cut offrge slices of meat to savor while drinking the local sorghum liquor. In theory, Li Chengru should dine with the tribal leader. But he just exchanged banalities with Mahal and let the other officials eat with Mahals family. Then, he went to join the Xiaos and the Lius. He was like their old friend who they could sometimes joke with. So Squire Liu asked him with a smile, Your highness, why did youe here? Li Chengru looked at Ye Xiaoxian and said, Im not used to anyone elses mutton but Little Yes, just like we ate in that inn. It was true that different people had different tastes. The Xiaos and the Lius were also impressed by the roasted mutton that night and were eager to eat once more. How could they resist the temptation of Ye Xiaoxians food? Ye Xiaoxian just smiled. When the fire was ready, she applied the prepared seasoning to the mutton. Slowly, the mutton began to sizzle and smell delicious. They kept swallowing as they waited expectantly for the moment to devour it. ... At this moment, Tarico was eating with Dillys family. But the mutton on his te seemed tasteless to him. He looked at Ye Xiaoxian from time to time. As she roasted the mutton, the others showed great trust in her. Even the Seventh King was waiting patiently by her side. Dilly noticed his absent-mindedness and suddenly understood something. Has Tarico taken a fancy to Little Ye? Dillys husband didnt know why Tarico was looking over at Little Ye and herpanions so frequently. He said somewhat enviously, I heard that the Seventh King is their friend. They met him during their escape, but only when they reached Baoning city did they find out that he was a king. Hahaha! The others alsoughed. Dillys son said, Theyre so lucky. The southern people always say good things happen to good people. Perhaps its their kindness that has brought them such good luck. The Seventh King looks like a good man. I thought he was an arrogant guy going anywhere by carriage, but hes actually so easygoing. ... The more they praised Li Chengru, the sadder Tarico began to feel. ... The roast mutton was finally ready. The good texture and seasoning, as cooked by Ye Xiaoxian, made the mutton even more delicious thanst time. As soon as the meat was put onto their tes, they bit into it excitedly and fiercely. Once living a disciplined life, Liu Qianqian and Xiao Baozhu were used to eating in a cultivated way. But at that moment, they had oil all over their lips while gobbling down the mutton. Li Chengru also forgot about his image while faced with this delicacy. Squire Liu asked, Its said there will be a dance performance this afternoon and also an archery contest tomorrow. Will you participate in these activities? Li Chengru replied without hesitation, Of course. He loved the scenery and the people here very much. Every time he saw the mountains, grasnds and the grazing goats, he would feel more than rxed andfortable. He hoped that he could stay here as long as possible. ... Li Chengru didnt watch the performance that afternoon. Instead, he was having a sound sleep in the yurt. Since he was full and drunk after the morning meal, he couldnt be bothered to watch the show. He said he had seen such a dance many times in the capital and had no interest in it. Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baozhu, Li Hongmei and Liu Qianqian all went to see the performance. After all, it was held only once a year. The first dance was performed by Guri and some other girls. To their surprise, Guri was the lead dancer in the middle. The other girls sometimes had to struggle to lift her, as the choreography required. Liu Qianqian couldnt help teasing. Without her family background, Guri wouldnt be the lead dancer. I feel so embarrassed for her. Each of the girls around her is more beautiful than her! Ye Xiaoxian didnt like to gossip behind peoples backs, but she agreed with Liu Qianqian this time. What an obvious abuse of power! Liu Qianqian continued, Look, why cant they lift a lighter and prettier girl? It must be very tiring to hold up a fat woman! Again, Ye Xiaoxian agreed. Guri always felt that she was charming when she was dancing. But some of the sexy poses were not so sexy when made by her. While she was twisting her body, she sneaked a look at Tarico from time to time. Since Tarico was with other young men, Ye Xiaoxian didnt know who Guri was looking at exactly. Anyway, it was one of them. Tarico would also perform a local dance with his brothers. It was abination of strength and gentleness. As these men went onto the stage, the local women began screaming and cheering. Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were too shy to cry out like that, but they also felt more than excited. It was still cold in the early spring, but the male dancers wore sleeveless clothes to show their muscles. In this sense, it was indeed a show of strength and beauty. Since each of these men were carefully chosen ording to their abilities, their dance was much better than thest one. Liu Qianqian eximed with excitement, Wow, look at that, and that... Wait, isnt he the fishing man? As I see, he dances the best! In thest part of the performance, the men and women would dance together around a bonfire. They could dance however they liked. But there was also a hidden rule. If a woman liked a man, she could dance to his side to see whether he would cooperate with her. A man could also do this to show his affection to a woman. Chapter 231 - Guris Affection for Tarico Chapter 231: Guris Affection for Tarico After saying what he wanted to say, Tarico rode away without looking back at Dati and Guri. The two women went back in a huff. Both of them looked unhappy. Why is Tarico always against us? If your father dislikes anything, Tarico will do it on purpose! Does he think all the people in our tribe owe him something? Guri remained silent. Her mind was all over the ce. Tarico hadnt looked at her once just now! ... After going back, Guri hastened to find a local girl who lived near Tarico. This girl hadnt followed the migration group and instead stayed in the tribe for a whole winter. Hey, I have something to ask you. Did you go skiing this winter? Guri asked. It was publicly known that Guri liked Tarico, so this girl understood her meaning at once. Yes, she said. You want to ask if Tarico went skiing, right? Guri replied indirectly, Now that you know this, just tell me! The girl just giggled. Guri could only take out a package of cheese prepared in advance and handed it to the girl. Now you can tell me. What did he do this winter? Who did he mix with? The girl took the cheese and said with a grin, I dont know much. Except for fishing or riding, he also usually stayed at home. But one day, I saw him skiing with a refugee woman very happily. Which woman? Guri resisted the impulse to crack her whip. The one who asks Auntie Dilly questions all the time of course. Tarico likes Auntie Dilly. So does that woman. Maybe they often date in Auntie Dillys house secretly. Hearing that, Guri became even angrier. Needless to say, it must be Ye Xiaoxian. Noticing Guris fury, the girl continued, You like Tarico, right? But your parents dont like him. Is there any future between you and him? Its none of your business! Guri mounted the horse and rode away. The girl held the cheese and cursed at Guris back. Who do you think you are? A princess? How could Tarico like you? ... After Ye Xiaoxian returned from collecting potherbs, she heard about the Festival of Sacrifice and also how Tarico had embarrassed Dati by selling them a goat for only one silver tael. She couldnt helpughing. This was indeed what a man like him would do. She didnt feel it strange for Tarico to do so, but Squire Liu asked her secretly, In your opinion, why Tarico is so kind to us? She said, Hes a nice guy. Theres always such a person wherever we go. I dont feel the same. He may have an intention, and that may be you. She shook her head immediately. Squire Liu, please dont think that way. Even if hes helping me, thats because were friends and havemon topics to talk about, like the cooperation over the camel team. Theres nothing more. Squire Liu said, All right, but have you ever thought of marrying a local man? Marrying? She shook her head again. No, Ive never thought about that. Squire Liu took on a serious tone. After living together for so long, I know youre a good woman. Your mother also supports you to remarry. If you want to marry, I think Tarico is a good choice as long as you like each other. He doesnt have parents, so he can choose who he marries by himself. She declined resolutely, Oh, please dont joke. I dont want to remarry. Please dont talk about Tarico that way, or I couldnt have normal contact with him anymore. No, not just him, I wouldnt talk to any men in the tribe! Hearing that, Squire Liu could only shut his mouth. ... The day before the Festival of Sacrifice, Li Chengru came to the tribe again. His entourage was the same asst time. He hade here this time just to have fun at the Festival of Sacrifice. So he also brought six goats over, three for the tribe and three for the two families. Mahal felt fortunate that he hadnt done anything to provoke the Seventh King. It was such a blessing that Tarico had stopped Dati and Guri from charging 10 silver taels, or Squire Liu would tell the Seventh King about his heartless exploitation. If so, the Seventh King would certainly fly into a rage again. After an impatient meeting with Mahal, Li Chengru took his people to Ye Xiaoxians house. Seeing him, the Xiaos and the Lius became wild with joy. They hadnt expected him toe again after a long cold winter. They had even been worried that he had returned to the capital and could no longer protect them. So, they invited them into the yurt hospitably. Some went to chop firewood, some prepared the food and some poured tea for the guests. On sitting down, Li Chengru said, Little Ye, I miss the milk tea I drankst time. I could drink a huge pot of it this time. He said this as if talking to a friend. Ye Xiaoxian didnt think in terms of hierarchy or consider him as a king. I happened to have made milk teast time, but now as you can see, theres none. To cook milk tea, I have to buy milk and boil tea. Its too troublesome. But I dont drink anything else except for that. She smiled. Do you want to try some honey-jujube tea I newly made. The honey and jujubes were all collected from the mountain. I promise it tastes as good as milk tea. Everything she makes is delicious. I may as well try some, he thought. After a sip of it, he felt fascinated and drank one after another cups of the new drink, relegating milk tea to the back of his mind. Fengsheng was worried that his master would rush to the toilet after a while. Learning that Li Chengru would give them three goats, Xiao Tieshu asked Squire Liu, What about Taricos goat? Are we going to buy it or not? Squire Liu said resolutely, No. We have goats now. Its not a fair deal for him to sell the goat for only one silver tael. Then, he turned to a servant and told him to inform Tarico that he didnt need to bring a goat over tomorrow because they had goats now. Li Chengru asked, You have to buy a goat to join the festival? How much is a goat? Squire Liu replied, A few days ago, the leaders wife came here and said that if we want to join the festival, we have to pay money, sacrifice a goat or work for them. If we pay money, we have to give her 10 silver taels and will get two goats. If we dont have money, we need to work for them. Its a good choice to help with work, but some refugees dont have a chance to join the ceremony at all. They say they have to feed goats on that day. But the goats eat grass, dont they? They just herd the goats to the pasture in the morning and drive them back in the evening. They dont need to watch the goats eat all day! Its obvious that the leader doesnt want their participation and the farmers dont want to pay for them. Li Chengrus face suddenly fell. Comments (12) White Whale Its funny how Mahal is very grateful for Tarico for saving his ass but it didnt stop Squire Liu from telling Li Chengru of what happened. Now that arrogant prince will let all the refugees join the festival and surely reprimand the leader. 2 days ago 5 Juliet Pulido . 15 hours ago 0 lzevahc Busted! 1 day ago 0 Comment Chapter 232: Dancing at the Festival of Sacrifice Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Mahal thought he had muddled through the officials inspection. But at dusk, Qiao Hu went to his house again. When asked if he was stopping the refugees from joining the festival, Mahal began humming and hawing. He tried to excuse his behavior, I dont mean to stop them, but there are so many refugees here. If all of them participate, Im afraid the farmers willin. After all, every family will kill a goat to share that day, but the refugees havent made any contributions. Qiao Hu snorted, They havent made any contributions? Havent they herded goats for you? I heard that they dont have sries but only get two naans a day. Now it is the Festival of Sacrifice. If you dont let the people celebrate it, what the point of having it? Just to please Heaven? Mahal was speechless. Qiao Hu continued, Go and tell the refugees that all of them can celebrate the festival tomorrow. The goats can eat grass by themselves. They dont need to be fed, do they? ... Mahal could only do as Qiao Hu said. Dati and Guri were also required to go with him. ... Taricos house. Tarico was braising fish at the door. After eating the fish that Ye Xiaoxian made, he had also braised fish several times. The fish he cooked tasted better and better and was now simr to hers. As he enjoyed his dinner, a servant from the Liu family came up to him. The servant was called Wu. He usually met Tarico while fishing, so they were now acquainted with one another. Although Wu was not fluent in the local dialect, Tarico could understand his meaning by his bodynguage. Tarico, good evening, Wu greeted with a big smile. Tarico said hospitably, Have you had dinner? Sit down and join me. Wu waved his hand. No, thanks. I can eat back home. I came here for the goat. Ill ughter the goat tomorrow morning. If you want it earlier, you cane here to take it then. Tarico thought Wu came to confirm the thing about the goat. After all, it sounded like a joke to sell a goat for one silver tael. But Wuughed. No, we dont need your goat. We have goats now. Oh? Tarico was surprised. Wu stretched out three fingers and said with excitement, The Seventh King came here and gave us three goats. Hes here again? Tarico asked. Yes! Thanks to him, we have three goats now. Hahaha! So we dont need your goat and you can keep it for yourself. Wu said this out of good will. Now that the Seventh King had given them the goats, Tarico then wouldnt suffer any loss. But hearing this, Tarico looked somewhat upset. Tarico, are you all right? Wu sensed that Tarico was not happy. But Tarico just smiled and said, Im fine. Now that you have goats, you dont need to buy mine. Wu didnt think much about the reason why Tarico was unhappy. Apart from goats, the Seventh King has also brought us many other things. Hes such a nice man. I didnt expect him to remember us after the journey, let alone visit us so frequently. Tarico smiled in reply. After Wu left, Tarico looked at the braised fish in the pot, but he suddenly had no appetite for it. ... The Festival of Sacrifice finally kicked off. It was a very grand asion. All the people gathered on the grasnd, facing the rising sun. In front of them were dozens of alters filled with roast mutton, fruit and snacks. The local wizards and seniors murmured on the stage, dancing a strange kind of dance. It was said to dispel any bad luck from the previous year and wee good luck for the new year. The refugees were standing at the back with solemn expressions. No one made a noise orughed at these strange rituals. After all, this was a meaningful ceremony for the locals. Li Chengru was also standing quietly in the front. As a distinguished guest, he could enjoy the best position. When the ceremony was over, all the people became rxed. Mahal announced tht it was time for revelry C eating and drinking! People took back their roast mutton, set up the grills and used the fire to reheat the food. Then, they cut offrge slices of meat to savor while drinking the local sorghum liquor. In theory, Li Chengru should dine with the tribal leader. But he just exchanged banalities with Mahal and let the other officials eat with Mahals family. Then, he went to join the Xiaos and the Lius. He was like their old friend who they could sometimes joke with. So Squire Liu asked him with a smile, Your highness, why did youe here? Li Chengru looked at Ye Xiaoxian and said, Im not used to anyone elses mutton but Little Yes, just like we ate in that inn. It was true that different people had different tastes. The Xiaos and the Lius were also impressed by the roasted mutton that night and were eager to eat once more. How could they resist the temptation of Ye Xiaoxians food? Ye Xiaoxian just smiled. When the fire was ready, she applied the prepared seasoning to the mutton. Slowly, the mutton began to sizzle and smell delicious. They kept swallowing as they waited expectantly for the moment to devour it. ... At this moment, Tarico was eating with Dillys family. But the mutton on his te seemed tasteless to him. He looked at Ye Xiaoxian from time to time. As she roasted the mutton, the others showed great trust in her. Even the Seventh King was waiting patiently by her side. Dilly noticed his absent-mindedness and suddenly understood something. Has Tarico taken a fancy to Little Ye? Dillys husband didnt know why Tarico was looking over at Little Ye and herpanions so frequently. He said somewhat enviously, I heard that the Seventh King is their friend. They met him during their escape, but only when they reached Baoning city did they find out that he was a king. Hahaha! The others alsoughed. Dillys son said, Theyre so lucky. The southern people always say good things happen to good people. Perhaps its their kindness that has brought them such good luck. The Seventh King looks like a good man. I thought he was an arrogant guy going anywhere by carriage, but hes actually so easygoing. ... The more they praised Li Chengru, the sadder Tarico began to feel. ... The roast mutton was finally ready. The good texture and seasoning, as cooked by Ye Xiaoxian, made the mutton even more delicious thanst time. As soon as the meat was put onto their tes, they bit into it excitedly and fiercely. Once living a disciplined life, Liu Qianqian and Xiao Baozhu were used to eating in a cultivated way. But at that moment, they had oil all over their lips while gobbling down the mutton. Li Chengru also forgot about his image while faced with this delicacy. Squire Liu asked, Its said there will be a dance performance this afternoon and also an archery contest tomorrow. Will you participate in these activities? Li Chengru replied without hesitation, Of course. He loved the scenery and the people here very much. Every time he saw the mountains, grasnds and the grazing goats, he would feel more than rxed andfortable. He hoped that he could stay here as long as possible. ... Li Chengru didnt watch the performance that afternoon. Instead, he was having a sound sleep in the yurt. Since he was full and drunk after the morning meal, he couldnt be bothered to watch the show. He said he had seen such a dance many times in the capital and had no interest in it. Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baozhu, Li Hongmei and Liu Qianqian all went to see the performance. After all, it was held only once a year. The first dance was performed by Guri and some other girls. To their surprise, Guri was the lead dancer in the middle. The other girls sometimes had to struggle to lift her, as the choreography required. Liu Qianqian couldnt help teasing. Without her family background, Guri wouldnt be the lead dancer. I feel so embarrassed for her. Each of the girls around her is more beautiful than her! Ye Xiaoxian didnt like to gossip behind peoples backs, but she agreed with Liu Qianqian this time. What an obvious abuse of power! Liu Qianqian continued, Look, why cant they lift a lighter and prettier girl? It must be very tiring to hold up a fat woman! Again, Ye Xiaoxian agreed. Guri always felt that she was charming when she was dancing. But some of the sexy poses were not so sexy when made by her. While she was twisting her body, she sneaked a look at Tarico from time to time. Since Tarico was with other young men, Ye Xiaoxian didnt know who Guri was looking at exactly. Anyway, it was one of them. Tarico would also perform a local dance with his brothers. It was abination of strength and gentleness. As these men went onto the stage, the local women began screaming and cheering. Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were too shy to cry out like that, but they also felt more than excited. It was still cold in the early spring, but the male dancers wore sleeveless clothes to show their muscles. In this sense, it was indeed a show of strength and beauty. Since each of these men were carefully chosen ording to their abilities, their dance was much better than thest one. Liu Qianqian eximed with excitement, Wow, look at that, and that... Wait, isnt he the fishing man? As I see, he dances the best! In thest part of the performance, the men and women would dance together around a bonfire. They could dance however they liked. But there was also a hidden rule. If a woman liked a man, she could dance to his side to see whether he would cooperate with her. A man could also do this to show his affection to a woman. Chapter 232 - Dancing at the Festival of Sacrifice

Chapter 232: Dancing at the Festival of Sacrifice

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Mahal thought he had muddled through the officials inspection. But at dusk, Qiao Hu went to his house again. When asked if he was stopping the refugees from joining the festival, Mahal began humming and hawing. He tried to excuse his behavior, I dont mean to stop them, but there are so many refugees here. If all of them participate, Im afraid the farmers willin. After all, every family will kill a goat to share that day, but the refugees havent made any contributions. Qiao Hu snorted, They havent made any contributions? Havent they herded goats for you? I heard that they dont have sries but only get two naans a day. Now it is the Festival of Sacrifice. If you dont let the people celebrate it, what the point of having it? Just to please Heaven? Mahal was speechless. Qiao Hu continued, Go and tell the refugees that all of them can celebrate the festival tomorrow. The goats can eat grass by themselves. They dont need to be fed, do they? ... Mahal could only do as Qiao Hu said. Dati and Guri were also required to go with him. ... Taricos house. Tarico was braising fish at the door. After eating the fish that Ye Xiaoxian made, he had also braised fish several times. The fish he cooked tasted better and better and was now simr to hers. As he enjoyed his dinner, a servant from the Liu family came up to him. The servant was called Wu. He usually met Tarico while fishing, so they were now acquainted with one another. Although Wu was not fluent in the local dialect, Tarico could understand his meaning by his bodynguage. Tarico, good evening, Wu greeted with a big smile. Tarico said hospitably, Have you had dinner? Sit down and join me. Wu waved his hand. No, thanks. I can eat back home. I came here for the goat. Ill ughter the goat tomorrow morning. If you want it earlier, you cane here to take it then. Tarico thought Wu came to confirm the thing about the goat. After all, it sounded like a joke to sell a goat for one silver tael. But Wuughed. No, we dont need your goat. We have goats now. Oh? Tarico was surprised. Wu stretched out three fingers and said with excitement, The Seventh King came here and gave us three goats. Hes here again? Tarico asked. Yes! Thanks to him, we have three goats now. Hahaha! So we dont need your goat and you can keep it for yourself. Wu said this out of good will. Now that the Seventh King had given them the goats, Tarico then wouldnt suffer any loss. But hearing this, Tarico looked somewhat upset. Tarico, are you all right? Wu sensed that Tarico was not happy. But Tarico just smiled and said, Im fine. Now that you have goats, you dont need to buy mine. Wu didnt think much about the reason why Tarico was unhappy. Apart from goats, the Seventh King has also brought us many other things. Hes such a nice man. I didnt expect him to remember us after the journey, let alone visit us so frequently. Tarico smiled in reply. After Wu left, Tarico looked at the braised fish in the pot, but he suddenly had no appetite for it. ... The Festival of Sacrifice finally kicked off. It was a very grand asion. All the people gathered on the grasnd, facing the rising sun. In front of them were dozens of alters filled with roast mutton, fruit and snacks. The local wizards and seniors murmured on the stage, dancing a strange kind of dance. It was said to dispel any bad luck from the previous year and wee good luck for the new year. The refugees were standing at the back with solemn expressions. No one made a noise orughed at these strange rituals. After all, this was a meaningful ceremony for the locals. Li Chengru was also standing quietly in the front. As a distinguished guest, he could enjoy the best position. When the ceremony was over, all the people became rxed. Mahal announced tht it was time for revelry C eating and drinking! People took back their roast mutton, set up the grills and used the fire to reheat the food. Then, they cut offrge slices of meat to savor while drinking the local sorghum liquor. In theory, Li Chengru should dine with the tribal leader. But he just exchanged banalities with Mahal and let the other officials eat with Mahals family. Then, he went to join the Xiaos and the Lius. He was like their old friend who they could sometimes joke with. So Squire Liu asked him with a smile, Your highness, why did youe here? Li Chengru looked at Ye Xiaoxian and said, Im not used to anyone elses mutton but Little Yes, just like we ate in that inn. It was true that different people had different tastes. The Xiaos and the Lius were also impressed by the roasted mutton that night and were eager to eat once more. How could they resist the temptation of Ye Xiaoxians food? Ye Xiaoxian just smiled. When the fire was ready, she applied the prepared seasoning to the mutton. Slowly, the mutton began to sizzle and smell delicious. They kept swallowing as they waited expectantly for the moment to devour it. ... At this moment, Tarico was eating with Dillys family. But the mutton on his te seemed tasteless to him. He looked at Ye Xiaoxian from time to time. As she roasted the mutton, the others showed great trust in her. Even the Seventh King was waiting patiently by her side. Dilly noticed his absent-mindedness and suddenly understood something. Has Tarico taken a fancy to Little Ye? Dillys husband didnt know why Tarico was looking over at Little Ye and herpanions so frequently. He said somewhat enviously, I heard that the Seventh King is their friend. They met him during their escape, but only when they reached Baoning city did they find out that he was a king. Hahaha! The others alsoughed. Dillys son said, Theyre so lucky. The southern people always say good things happen to good people. Perhaps its their kindness that has brought them such good luck. The Seventh King looks like a good man. I thought he was an arrogant guy going anywhere by carriage, but hes actually so easygoing. ... The more they praised Li Chengru, the sadder Tarico began to feel. ... The roast mutton was finally ready. The good texture and seasoning, as cooked by Ye Xiaoxian, made the mutton even more delicious thanst time. As soon as the meat was put onto their tes, they bit into it excitedly and fiercely. Once living a disciplined life, Liu Qianqian and Xiao Baozhu were used to eating in a cultivated way. But at that moment, they had oil all over their lips while gobbling down the mutton. Li Chengru also forgot about his image while faced with this delicacy. Squire Liu asked, Its said there will be a dance performance this afternoon and also an archery contest tomorrow. Will you participate in these activities? Li Chengru replied without hesitation, Of course. He loved the scenery and the people here very much. Every time he saw the mountains, grasnds and the grazing goats, he would feel more than rxed andfortable. He hoped that he could stay here as long as possible. ... Li Chengru didnt watch the performance that afternoon. Instead, he was having a sound sleep in the yurt. Since he was full and drunk after the morning meal, he couldnt be bothered to watch the show. He said he had seen such a dance many times in the capital and had no interest in it. Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baozhu, Li Hongmei and Liu Qianqian all went to see the performance. After all, it was held only once a year. The first dance was performed by Guri and some other girls. To their surprise, Guri was the lead dancer in the middle. The other girls sometimes had to struggle to lift her, as the choreography required. Liu Qianqian couldnt help teasing. Without her family background, Guri wouldnt be the lead dancer. I feel so embarrassed for her. Each of the girls around her is more beautiful than her! Ye Xiaoxian didnt like to gossip behind peoples backs, but she agreed with Liu Qianqian this time. What an obvious abuse of power! Liu Qianqian continued, Look, why cant they lift a lighter and prettier girl? It must be very tiring to hold up a fat woman! Again, Ye Xiaoxian agreed. Guri always felt that she was charming when she was dancing. But some of the sexy poses were not so sexy when made by her. While she was twisting her body, she sneaked a look at Tarico from time to time. Since Tarico was with other young men, Ye Xiaoxian didnt know who Guri was looking at exactly. Anyway, it was one of them. Tarico would also perform a local dance with his brothers. It was abination of strength and gentleness. As these men went onto the stage, the local women began screaming and cheering. Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were too shy to cry out like that, but they also felt more than excited. It was still cold in the early spring, but the male dancers wore sleeveless clothes to show their muscles. In this sense, it was indeed a show of strength and beauty. Since each of these men were carefully chosen ording to their abilities, their dance was much better than thest one. Liu Qianqian eximed with excitement, Wow, look at that, and that... Wait, isnt he the fishing man? As I see, he dances the best! In thest part of the performance, the men and women would dance together around a bonfire. They could dance however they liked. But there was also a hidden rule. If a woman liked a man, she could dance to his side to see whether he would cooperate with her. A man could also do this to show his affection to a woman. Chapter 233 - Counterattack!

Chapter 233: Counterattack!

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio In the case of a woman dancing over to a man; if he epted, it meant that he liked her. Then, she could take the next step, such as giving him a handkerchief or a jewel. Ye Xiaoxian was also dragged up to dance by Liu Qianqian. Although they didnt know the local dancing style, they just took it as an opportunity to get some exercise, to have fun and also to build friendships with the locals. Liu Qianqian imitated the steps of the locals as she asked Ye Xiaoxian, Will any young guys dance to us? Ye Xiaoxian chuckled. What are you thinking about? Isnt Jia Zhenbo enough for you? Do you want a little lover? Of course not! But you could find a man! Ye Xiaoxian said, I dont need one. Right now I just want to ensure our survival and make our lives better. Liu Qianqian then joked to Xiao Baozhu, Baozhu, you can find a man among this lot. But Xiao Baozhu also had no such idea. Dont make fun of me. It seems youre the one whos eager to find a man. But as she danced, a young man came up to her and showed his attraction to her. Although she understood his meaning, she didnt give him any response. In fact, she looked quite indifferent. Rejected by her silence, the man could only look for a new target. It seemed that he had more than just one or two targets. So long as one girl responded to him, he could get out of the single life. Tarico was also dancing. Dilly said he was very much sought-after. Many girls wanted to marry him, but he didnt take to any of them. At this moment, he was dancing joyfully with his brothers. Under so many expectant eyes, he didnt show any interest in a girl. Guris patience was wearing thin. She had been ying with her friends, but they all went off to dance with men. Only Guri got no invitation. Humph! These men either have poor taste or think Im an aggressive daughter of the tribal leader! She had a look at Tarico again. Seeing him ying with only men, she felt an urge to dance to him. But just then, she saw the girl living near to Tarico go up to him and show her fondness for a while. He neither cooperated with her nor clearly rejected her. Instead, he responded with other postures. Getting his meaning, the girl trotted away immediately. Guri snorted. Humph! You told me Ye Xiaoxian had close contact with Tarico. But what about you? I didnt expect you also like him! Bah, who do you think you are? Youre just a poor girl in a family with only seven goats! Guri became hesitant to dance to Tarico, afraid of being declined in the same way. Then, she looked over at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were also having great fun, as if they were no different from the locals. Guri couldnt help feeling angry. Humph! You outsiders have no right to integrate into our tribe! I must teach you a lesson! ... Guri left the crowd and asked the herdsmen working for her family toe over. After learning her wicked n, the men hesitated. But she threatened to cut their wages if they didnt do as she told them. As such, they were forced to obey her. They went back among the crowd but didnt dance right away. Rather, they found several other people and whispered the n to them. ... Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions had lost themselves in the joyful music. The scenery was so charming at the foot of Tianshan Mountains where they could feel the softness of the grass and see the blue sky and white clouds. The music yed by horse-head fiddles and pipas (four-stringed Chinese musical instruments) further lit up the atmosphere. No one would pull a long face in such a situation. Ye Xiaoxian even felt an impulse to start square-dancing. The music of Phoenix Legend echoed in her mind: Follow the lead of everyones dreams; Our steps will be like the beat of a drum; Sing with a smile and sing from your heart; It will guide our way all night and day... Just then, a man danced up to her to show his admiration. She declined him with a silent smile. But then, there was one man after another wooing her... She was confused. After all, she was not a heartthrob. Besides, she had never seen these men before. The tribe was so big and they lived so far away from each other. Why did these men choose her? Because she could do square-dancing? Ye Xiaoxian soon drew many peoples attention. It was a rare scene that many men showed affection for a woman. Thest time this had happened was five years ago. At that time, there had been an exceptionally stunning girl in the tribe. The people around Ye Xiaoxian all stopped to see how she responded. Embarrassed, she could only stop as well. But the men didnt stop and even began to exaggerate their dance moves. It looked more like some collective flirtation than mere friendly interaction. It was as if they were doing this on purpose. Liu Qianqian became angry and grabbed Ye Xiaoxians sleeve. Are these men crazy? They must be making fun of us refugees! Little Ye, lets go home now! Xiao Baozhu also said, Lets go! But Ye Xiaoxian was unwilling to submit. If she left just like this, these men would think the southern women were weak and easily bullied. If she met them again, they would still make fun of her. Humph, I must respond in kind! Although she couldnt dance the local dance, she believed all the people could understand the gestures of showing refusal and disdain. So she danced again as if nothing had happened. But after warming up, she gave those men the finger, rolled her eyes, and stuck her tongue out at them. The onlookers all burst outughing. Tarico also noticed what had happened to her. When he wanted to help her, he found she had handled the trouble perfectly. So he didnt go over and just watched her quietly with an involuntary smile. The troublemakers, under Guris order, had nned to make Ye Xiaoxian leave in tears. But at this moment, they became the ones being teased by her and evenughed at by the onlookers. Embarrassed, they immediately fled. Seeing the scene from not far away, Guri stamped her foot in anger. What bungling oafs! ... That evening, Ye Xiaoxian fried the leftover mutton and made naans for dinner. In the public yurt for the two families, there were some wooden tables and chairs made by the servant responsible for chopping wood. Rough as they were, they proved a great convenience in daily life. At least, they didnt need to squat to have dinner anymore. Talking about Ye Xiaoxians performance that day, everybody burst intoughter. Liu Qianqian and Xiao Baozhu had much greater admiration for her. After sleeping for a whole afternoon, Li Chengru feltpletely refreshed. He suggested they drink some sorghum liquor together. The local sorghum liquor was made using melted snow from Tianshan Mountains and several varieties of sorghum. It tasted pleasantly sweet with a low alcohol content. Even the women didnt mind the taste. Chapter 234 - Investment

Chapter 234: Investment

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio In terms of modern alcoholic drinks, beer tasted closest to sorghum liquor, though not as smooth and sweet. While drinking the liquor, they talked about the camel team again. Squire Liu told Ye Xiaoxians suggestion to Li Chengru. He said camel trade would be a profitable business but they didnt have enough capital. s, if only we had enough money to do this business... Squire Liu was a shrewd man. He wanted to see whether Li Chengru would lend them money, but he didnt say so directly. Li Chengru didnt bother to gauge Squire Lius intentions. He asked without hesitation, How much do you need? 20 silver taels for a camel. So 15 camels will cost 300 taels. I can invest in five camels, and Little Ye two or three camels. But Little Ye made the proposal, so no matter how many camels she buys, she will be the team leader. Oh yes, theres a local guy called Tarico. He can help guide the camel team. Since he can invest in one camel, we still need seven, that is 140 taels. Li Chengru rubbed his chin and thought for a while. Then, he made up his mind. This idea sounds good. I can also invest some money. Everyone was surprised by his generosity. Displeased by their look of astonishment, he cleared his throat and said, Since Im close to you, you think Im not a king again? You think I have no money? Their thoughts being read, they all smiled sheepishly. Chengru continued, I have nothing except for money! My annual sry is tens of thousands of taels! I can invest 500 taels so that you can buy more and make the business bigger. Ye Xiaoxian asked, But youre living in Baoning city now. Isnt your money in the capital? Can you get it out? Of course! I can let the steward send the money to me, or I can go to the capital in person. After all, I havent gone back for a long time. Oh yes, if you dont know how to sell your goods, I can help you find a trading agent. Itll be responsible for selling your goods and also collecting the goods you need. This way, you dont need to look for buyers by yourself. Both Ye Xiaoxian and Squire Liu thought his arrangement was excellent. Although the others didnt quite understand, they also felt that it was an awesome idea. Li Chengru then looked at Ye Xiaoxian. But it may be quite dangerous. You must be very careful. Its said one may die in the desert at anytime from being buried by the sand, getting lost or just thirst. Ye Xiaoxian said, Well be careful. Well ask a local whos familiar with the terrain to guide us, so itll be safe. Thats good! But after thinking for a moment, he added, Apart from a local, you also need extra protection. After I return to the capital, Ill send two strong men to escort you. Ye Xiaoxian beamed with joy. Really? Thank you so much! If we make any profit, well give you the biggest share! He revealed a contemptuous look again. I dont need the money! Besides, I do so actually for Baoning city. For Baoning city? They were confused. Li Chengru exined, My sixth brother has been thinking about how to make this city prosper. To this aim, its necessary to develop trade, getting new things in and selling our stuff out. When I meet him, Ill tell him your n. If you do well, he may give you some extra subsidies. Hearing that, the people were all wild with joy. ... On the second day of the Festival of Sacrifice, there were riding and archery contests. It was said these contests were more exciting than the dance performance. So both the Xiaos and the Lius went to watch the games. The greatest highlight was that Li Chengru and Fengsheng would also participate with the locals. Li Chengru and Fengsheng were undoubtedly masters in martial arts in Central ins. Win or lose, their performances wouldnt be counted into scores. They just wanted to show that there were also strong men who couldnt be looked down upon in Central ins When Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions arrived at thepetition field, they were all amazed by its size and the number ofpetitors. The local children could ride and shoot since the age of four or five, so these two activities were part of their lives. Therefore, many locals signed up for the contests. The first round was riding. Thepetitors rode twops around a field and grabbed the gs along the way. The ones who got the most gs could move on to the next round. The second round was still about riding. Thepetitors used poles to hit balls on the ground into goals. It was just like ying golf on horseback. After these two rounds, almost 100petitors were eliminated. Only the remaining 10 men were qualified to continue on to riding plus archery. The Xiaos and the Lius were all amazed by the contests. Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu, who used to be constables, had thought they were strong enough to rival the locals. But after seeing the locals performances, they were totally ashamed of being weak. After experiencing so much, Xiao Baozhu had been feeling down for days without interest in any man. But at this moment, she was just like a little fan, amazed by how cool thesepetitors were. Ye Xiaoxian had seen such a scene many times on television. But seeing it in person, she was also greatly shocked. However, most of her attention was on Li Chengru and Fengsheng. When they rode the horses, they were not as fierce as the locals. Instead, they looked calm and graceful on horseback as if they didnt use much strength. In general, Ye Xiaoxian preferred their style of riding. They passed the three rounds smoothly and finally came to thest one which was still a double test of riding and archery. Their excellent performances came as a great shock to the locals. They hadnt expected this fair-skinned, civilized king was so good at riding. At the same time, Tarico also advanced to thest round. Before the contest, he had given a tough and determined look to Li Chengru. There was not a hint of yfulness in his eyes. Youre a king, right? Ill totally defeat you today! Youre not my match! Little Ye will pay attention to me then! But Li Chengru still wore a cool expression. Anyone could see that he didnt care much about the result. He just wanted to enjoy the game. This round requiredpetitors to shoot at the red targets in the distance while riding their horses. One would get 10 points if he hit the middle and lose several points if he didnt. Basically, the rules were the same as the modern ones. When the game started, the 10petitors set off together and shot at the targets. The audience couldnt help holding their breaths. Liu Qianqian even grabbed Ye Xiaoxians hand tightly. First, Li Chengru got 9 points and Tarico 10. The locals cheered. Then, Li Chengru got 10 points and Tarico 9. The refugees cheered. Although they normally advocated tribal unity, at this moment, the refugees and the locals only supported the representatives of their own sides. Chapter 235 - 500 Silver Taels

Chapter 235: 500 Silver Taels

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio To everyones shock, whening to thest target, Li Chengru fired an arrow casually and only got 6 points. Ye Xiaoxian thought he did so to show respect for the tribe, otherwise he could have hit above 8. As for Tarico, he hit the target fair and square. As such, he won the contest. Guri cheered in excitement while resolving to let her father match her and Tarico. She was desperate to marry Tarico. The award for the winner was two goats. It struck the Xiaos that Tarico was willing to sell his goat for one silver tael because he had confidence in winning the contest! But Tarico seemed uninterested in the prizes. He seemed rather absentminded when he took the rope tied to the two goats and looked at Ye Xiaoxian. After thepetition, Li Chengru and Fengsheng gathered with the Xiaos and the Lius. They chatted andughed very cheerfully. The others all praised the two for saving face for the Central ins through their amazing performances. ... After the Festival of Sacrifice, the people in the tribe continued with their normal lives. Every family was again striving for a living. After a month, Li Chengru came back with 500 silver taels. He gave the money to Ye Xiaoxian and let her start the business as soon as possible. It was obvious that he trusted her implicitly. Besides, he had helped them find a trading agent in Beihui city. He had made the acquaintance of the agency boss in his travel. That man was trustworthy and had a widework of rtionships. With his help, they could sell their goods much faster than doing retail. The premise was that they gave him a share of the profits. Ye Xiaoxian agreed without hesitation. With Li Chengrus support, she felt she could do it boldly. Li Chengru also brought his two pce guards to help her. One of them was called Wong Wen and the other Wong Wu. Since Li Chengru stayed in Baoning city, they had been idle in the big house in the capital. But in this tribe, there would be ample scope for their abilities. With the money and even guards, Ye Xiaoxian suddenly felt tremendous pressure. She must be careful and do well in her business, or she would be ridiculed by those who knew about this. ... Ye Xiaoxian soon informed Tarico that they had collected enough capital. After all, this was his idea. That day, Tarico, Wong Wen, Wong Wu, the Xiaos and the Lius gathered in a yurt to discuss what to do next. This meeting would set a general direction for their business. They would select a leader and two managers and determine the division ofbor for the others. Ye Xiaoxian said, Since Mr. Li has invested the most money, he is a shareholder. Then she exined that a shareholder was an investor. If a business was unprofitable, the shareholder would lose money. Running a high risk, the shareholder should in return obtain a big share. Since Li Chengru had invested 500 silver taels among the total sum of 700, he should hold the biggest share. The others nodded in approval. Then, she said, Next, well select a leader, that is a decision-maker or director. Here, Id like to rmend Tarico. Hes not only experienced in this regard, but hes also a local with a wide circle of friends. If hes the leader, we should all listen to his arrangements. Since his workload is heavy and the risk he takes is high, he is supposed to get an extra share apart from his investment ie. The others nodded again. She continued, Next are the two managers; Squire Liu and me. Since I cant keep up with men in terms of strength, and Squire Liu is old, we wont follow the camel team every time. But well be responsible for the purchasing of local goods, which is also difficult work. In this sense, were rather high-level in this team and should get the same share. Squire Liu declined politely, Oh no, my contribution is not as big as yours. Youre clever and have many ideas. Although our positions are the same, you should get a bigger share. But she didnt care much about that. Youre so modest. Im young andck experience. There will be many things about which I have to ask you for advice. Squire Liu could only ept. She then looked at the others and said, Qianqian, Baozhu, youll help me and Squire Liu with the purchase. Uncles, you may have to follow the camel team. Dawu and Erwu, youre still responsible for fishing and cutting firewood. Aunts, youre in charge of housework. The others work remains the same as usual, that is logistics. Speaking of logistics, she then added, Dont underestimate the logistics. As is said, food and fodder should go ahead of troops and horses. Youre making tremendous contributions when you ensure our basic needs. Hearing that, Wong Mudan, Chen Ju and Old Mrs. Jia cocked their heads proudly. ... After the work was divided among them, they began performing their respective duties. Ye Xiaoxian, Squire Liu and Tarico went to purchase camels. Since Tarico had been surveying where there were good camels, they soon brought 20 back after visiting several farms. Although the camels were different sizes and species, they were strong and capable of carrying heavy things. Therge camel team came as a great shock to the locals. If a horse waspared to a small Japanese car, a camel was equal to a big truck. How amazing to have 20 trucks at a time! The curious people kept inquiring about what happened. Soon, they knew Tarico had united the Seventh King and the two families to form a camel team. The news stunned the locals greatly. These years, Tarico had been mobilizing them to set up a camel team, but no one believed it was a reliable means of making a living. Being an orphan, Tarico had shown his best side to the locals. He was good at fishing and archery and sometimes sold things out with the camels. But anyhow, the camel team was not a safe way to earn money. For them, the desert was just like a monster which might swallow them at any moment. If caught by it, what they stood to lose was not only money but also their lives. So it was a great surprise to them that the Seventh King would invest so much in something which they had shrugged off. ... In the evening, Mahal had noodles for dinner with his wife and daughter under an oilmp. Dati told him about the camel team and asked, Can they really earn money with the camel team? Chapter 236 - She Is a Widow!

Chapter 236: She Is a Widow!

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Earn money? Mahal snorted. Of course they will if they cane back alive. But a trip will cost them one or even two months and 20 camels need at least 15 people to look after. Besides, they may confront bandits or be buried by sand at anytime. So I dont think its a promising business, or Id have done this before them. Is it really so scary? Guri asked. She was worried about Tarico. Youll see. Theyll soon cry in front of us. Mahal said as he slurped the noodles. Relieved by his words, Dati continued eating her noodles. She had been exceptionally worried when seeing therge camel team. If they were financially outstripped by a poor guy and some refugees, their authority would be greatly reduced in the tribe. But Guri was rather anxious. She wanted to stop Tarico from risking his life. ... Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions began preparing the first batch of goods while feeding the camels. The camels liked eating leaves, hay and salt which were hard to digest. Fortunately, these were not difficult to obtain and didnt cost much money. It only needed someone to cut grass every day. Since such food was cheap, they could also buy it from the locals. Some local children often picked dry grass and leaves and swapped them for money. Tarico went to Desert Eagles house and wished he could guide the camel team. Desert Eagles real name was Ji. He agreed on the condition that they paid him three silver taels for a trip. When Tarico told Ye Xiaoxian about this, she said themission was not a big deal as long as Ji could do his job well. After that, Mahal went to the market to purchasemodities with Ye Xiaoxian, Squire Liu and some other people. Many local specialties could be exported. They included processed wool, dairy products, dried fruit, cotton, herbal medicine, sorghum liquor, beef jerky, and mutton jerky. Since the material resources here were not enough, they also went to other tribes to purchase more. Then, they packaged themodities by using the consistent jars and oil paper written with Tianshan as the brand name. During that time, all the people bustled around in their respective positions. Purchasing, cooking, or feeding camels, they felt d that they were useful in this big team. After full preparation, it was time to set off. It was their first time going through the desert. Except for Tarico, all the people were decidedly worried. If they really confronted any danger, all their efforts would turn out fruitless. More seriously, they might die on the way. Ye Xiaoxian was also very nervous. But being the organizer, she couldnt show negative emotions. Besides, since it was the first transportation trip, she decided to follow the camel team this time. Learning about this, Li Hongmei became anxious. Little Ye, youre a woman. Why must you go with them? What if... Ye Xiaoxian replied with studied casualness, ording to Ji, itll be a smooth journey as long as the weather is good. Its just like riding a horse on grasnd. Besides, we have plenty of food and water. So you dont need to worry about me. Hearing that, Xiao Baozhu suddenly clenched her fists. If you go, Ill go too. Baozhu... Li Hongmei wanted to dissuade her. But Ye Xiaoxian said hurriedly, Okay! Id like a woman to apany me. Now that she appeared so confident about the safety, how could she stop Xiao Baozhu from going with her? Otherwise, Li Hongmei would certainly think the journey was dangerous. Xiao Baozhu looked unconcerned about the potential danger. Mom, if youre over-cautious, you cant do anything well and may even hinder Sister Ye. Just Trust Sister Ye. Li Hongmei could only give up trying to dissuade them. Ye Xiaoxians participation relieved her uncles worry. After some discussion, they determined who was to go on the first trip. They decided on Tarico, Jia Zhenbo, Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baozhu, Xiao Tieshu, Dawu, Wong Wen, and Wong Wu. Although they had 20 camels, they could have some of the camels carrying more than one person. This way, more of the camels had the energy to carry goods. ... On the day of departure, Tarico was sharpening arrows at home. He usually used wooden arrows for archery practice. Although they were not as sharp as military ones, they would be useful for handling ordinary bandits. So he nned to prepare more arrows in case any idents might happen on the journey. After all, there were not only bandits but also wolves and snakes in the desert. Just then, he heard the tter of a horses hooves. He looked up and found Guri riding over on her red horse. Instead of rising to greet her, he continued with his work. Tarico! Guri shouted. She was not pretty with a fierce look on her face. Although her face was full of worry, she was still far from being likable. What is it? Tarico asked. I heard that youre going to the desert tomorrow. Is it true? She asked as she dismounted the horse. Yes. His tone was cool. Guri put on airs. I forbid you to go. Tarico couldnt helpughing. He would do whatever he wanted to do. How could he be stopped by Guri? Tarico, did you hear me? I forbid you to go. I want you to stay. If you stay, Ill let youe to my home. She finally spoke her mind to him. He was confused. Go to your home? Why? Well... how should I say? Youe to my home of course to be my fathers son-inw! With a start, Tarico almost cut his finger with the knife in his hand. Seeing his reaction, Guri had a big smile. Are you surprised? Actually, I had this idea long ago. Do you agree or not? If you agree, Ill tell my father now. After we get married, the cows and goats in my family will all be ours and you dont need to take risks to herd camels. She thought Tarico would feel ttered. But in fact, he still looked indifferent, showing no hint of excitement. Under her expectant eyes, he replied slowly and clearly, I dont agree. She was surprised. Why? I dont like you and dont want to be your fathers son-inw. I like herding camels, he said frankly. He was as straightforward as any other local in the tribe of the Tianshan Mountains. Guri said angrily, Then do you like that southern woman? I heard that shes a widow! Youd rather like her than the women of our tribe? Tarico seemed disgusted with her words. Its my own business who I like. Its none of your concern. Chapter 237 - To the Desert

Chapter 237: To the Desert

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Guri was infuriated. As the tribal leaders daughter, she had thought it would be Taricos honor to be chosen as her husband, but he didnt appreciate it at all. Some time ago, Guri had even told her mother that she liked a poor man, though she had been opposed at once. Dati had said that the poor were eitherzy or stupid, otherwise they wouldnt live in poverty. She also warned Guri not to consider any poor man as her husband. Guri nned to rebel against her parents for him, only to be rejected by him first. She said angrily, Fine. Its none of my business! I hope you and that woman die in the desert together! Tarico didnt bother to talk to her anymore. He continued sharpening his arrows intently. ... The Xiaos and the Lius were also packing up luggage. It was very windy and sandy in the desert, but in this era, there were no goggles or even any ss. So they could only wear veils to keep out the sand. Ye Xiaoxian asked Li Hongmei to make several veils together with scarfs and cowhide boots. She herself was preparing food. What they would eat this time were mainly naans without anything inside. They were made dry and hard so that they could be preserved longer. She also made some dried vegetables which could be cooked into soup with rich vitamins. Li Hongmei was still very worried. But every time she saw the calmness on Ye Xiaoxians face, she knew she couldnt persuade such a woman. To relieve her anxiety, she did whatever Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu told her, though she got tired eyes after several days of needlework. The next day, they all got up very early. With worry or excitement, those who would stay offered to help load the goods. Taller and stronger than horses, the camels were capable of carrying heavy things. When a camel seemed fully loaded, Tarico always had ways to add stuff on it, which amazed Ye Xiaoxian greatly. The loading capacity of a camel was virtually equal to that of a carriage! After that, Taricomanded the camels to kneel and told the people sit on the humps. So Ye Xiaoxian struggled to climb onto a camel. When the camel rose slowly, she felt like she was riding an elephant. Since the camel was tall, her feet were far from the ground. It felt as if she was flying. After all of them were ready, Ji gave an order in the front. Then, the camels followed him obediently. The others looked more than nervous. Li Hongmei burst out crying. You muste back safely! Mom, dont worry. We wille back safely. Ye Xiaoxian assured. Xiao Baozhu also said, Mom, were blessed by Heaven. Now that we survived our escape, we definitely wont die this time. Li Hongmei wiped her tears which were streaming down her face endlessly. Liu Qianqian was also drowned in tears for Jia Zhenbo who set off on behalf of the Lius. Although they were not newly married, they had never been separated in over a month. How sorry she felt to leave him! Jia Zhenbo told her that she should take good care of herself and that he wanted a child after he got back. She was amused and began chuckling. She sniffed and said, Youre so bad! Apart from the two families, some locals also went to see the camel team off. After all, 20 fully-loaded camels were just like 20 trucks carrying abundant goods in modern times. They seemed to be going to make a stir somewhere far off. Guri was also watching the team on horseback from atop a small hill. When she looked down at Tarico, she gripped the reins more tightly. Humph! She wished there would be bad weather sandstorms or tornadoes to swirl them up or bury them under the sand! ... Across the Tianshan Mountains, there was less and less grass. The rivers were farther and farther behind. Then, they arrived at the tribe of the ming Mountains. The ming Mountains were the hottest ce in the country. But the temperature there was suitable for nting grapes and it was bearable at night. The locals liked to sleep on the roof. The tribe was famous for its grapes. The raisins and wine Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions had purchased were right from there. When the camel team passed there, the locals went out to watch. Some who knew Ji or Tarico approached to greet them. Going through this tribe, they came to the desert. The Xiaos and the Lius had known there was arge desert on their escape and it seemed connected to Daan county. If they walked on gravel roads, it would take them two months to reach Beihui city. But now, they only needed a month or 18 days if it went well. Although the camels were slow, they were much steadier than horses. The sand in the desert was burning hot, radiating heat into everyones faces. Compared with the Tianshan Mountains, the season here seemed the other way around. Wong Wen and Wong Wu wanted to take off some clothes, but Ji shouted at them harshly. Since they had juste here, they couldnt understand the local dialect. So Ye Xiaoxian tranted for them, He told you not to take off clothes, or you would dehydrate easily. Its fatal to dehydrate in the desert. Wong Wen said, But were too hot. Its very dry in the desert, so you wont sweat a lot. Just listen to the senior. Li Chengru had told them to obey Ye Xiaoxian, so they could only bear the heat as they moved on. The camels had been following Ji one after another. But somehow, Tarico rode his camel to Ye Xiaoxians side and went with her. He asked, How do you feel? Is it all right for you? She smiled. Yes. Its just the first day, after all. Taricoughed wildly. Then you have to hold on. We have many days to go in this desert. There will be only sand to see from here. She pointed at something like a cactus not far away and said, Isnt it a nt? He couldnt help smiling. The longer they went, the hotter it became. In the afternoon, Ji asked everyone to stop every once in a while. He said the camels also needed to take rests. When the camels rested, they would kneel on the sand and breathe slowly. Although they were big, they looked quite adorable. Ye Xiaoxian soon felt well-disposed toward them. The camels needed water to refresh themselves, but they couldnt drink too much at a time. With curiosity, Xiao Baozhu asked Tarico whether there was water in the desert. He replied, Yes. Sometimes theres ake. But its not fixed because both sand and water flow. So theke is sometimes here and sometimes there. There is also water under trees as long as we dig deep into the sand. But as we have brought enough water, we dont need to do that for the time being. Chapter 238 - Beihui City

Chapter 238: Beihui City

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Slowly, night fell. It was not that dark in the desert, as the bright stars illuminated the reflective sand and they could see each others faces. So they pressed on until it was about half past ten. Then, they set up tents, lit the firewood which they had prepared in advance and sat down for some food and water. Since it was too dry in the desert, they didnt have much of an appetite and only wanted water. But they needed to save some water for the rest of the journey. They made a circle. Sitting next to Xiao Baozhu, Ye Xiaoxian began observing herpanions as usual. She was used to taking care of everyone. Somehow, she felt that Jis expression was strange. While she was looking at him, he was also surveying her with a trace of greed showing in his eyes. But he looked away immediately. Ye Xiaoxian didnt know what he was thinking about. ording to Tarico, Ji was familiar with the desert and his guidance was essential, so they needed to trust him for the time being. That night, four of the men were responsible for keeping watch. Wong Wen and Xiao Tieshu kept a vigil before midnight, and Wong Wu and Tarico after that. The others could then have a sound sleep. Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu shared one tent. Theyy close to each other because of the cold. Besides, the desert appeared so boundless and mysterious that they felt something was watching them from above. It might be a god, a spirit or something unknown in the desert. Ye Xiaoxian thought of a TV show about riddles, from which she heard that an ancient city or a tomb was discovered in the desert and that some disappeared in the desert never to be found anywhere, but, after some time, a corpse would turn up. It was also said that the sand dunes would change position at night and trap people. Ye Xiaoxian wanted to tell these stories to Xiao Baozhu, but she didnt want to scare her. As such, she could only keep them to herself. Gradually, she drifted off into a light sleep. When she opened her eyes again, it was dawn. They kept on going. ... Although it was hard going, nothing that Ye Xiaoxian had been worrying about appeared. Although the desert seemed the same everywhere, she had a keen eye for the ripples of sand which could help her distinguish the leeward and windward directions. asionally, she saw green nts under which they could find some water, so long as they dug deep. She had also noticed that Ji often looked up at the sky in the evenings. The pole star and a few constetions were rtively fixed in position, which, ording to the textbooks, could guide people in wildness. Still, it was easier to tell the direction in the daytime. The sun was the best guide. She also discovered the rules of the sand. The windward facing sand was morepressed and hard while the leeward sand was softer, and camels feet would sink deeper into it. Usually, Ji would take them on a detour around the leeward-facing areas. If there was a sand dune ahead, they usually had to bypass it. If they stepped on the dune, they might sink easily. To confirm her judgment, she consulted Ji during a rest stop, but he ignored her coldly. This was understandable. After all, it was his precious experience. Why should he tell her? If she mastered the skills, they wouldnt need his guidance next time. So, she gave up asking Ji and decided to observe by herself. ... After 17 days, they finally reached Beihui city. It was very close to the capital. They made it their destination because the trading agent to whom Li Chengru had introduced them was also there. Wong Wen and Wong Wu knew the boss of the trading agent and they called him Mr. Cai. Learning that they were Li Chengrus friends, Mr. Cai appeared more than hospitable. He provided them with stools and water and asked his men to unload the goods. His men were very careful when unloading. They almost took all of the teams goods as well as Jis. While the others were exhausted, Ji was still energetic. During the rest time, he went to cotton up to Mr. Cai. Since Ji was with the team, Mr. Cai also responded to him enthusiastically. At that moment, Ye Xiaoxian was very tired and was in no mood for other things. She only wanted water to quench her thirst and a good meal to satisfy her stomach. Being close to the capital, this ce was far more prosperous than Qinghe county. There were many snacks from different ces, including wontons, dumplings and various southern pastries. Ye Xiaoxian treated everyone to a bowl of wontons. After many days of cold naans, their stomachs were finally warmed by the delicious meat and sweet soup. That night, they stayed at an inn arranged by Mr. Cai. Each room could fit two people. Ye Xiaoxian felt excited abouting back to the Central ins and was amazed by the prosperity here. So she went to visit the night market with Xiao Baozhu to buy some presents for other family members. Since Xiao Baozhu had arrived here, she had been eximing, Sister Ye, I didnt expect that Beihui would be such arge city. So many peoplee out at night and they have so many more goods than in our hometown. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. If you keep doing business with me, I can take you to the capital one day. Its even more prosperous there. Perhaps you will be reluctant to go back by then. Okay! Ill work hard to see the world with you. Oh yes, Ill take mom and Baofeng with me when that dayes! Xiao Baozhu said. But then, she asked, Sister Ye, will you marry? If you get married, I wont be able to be so close to you anymore. I have no interest in that, Ye Xiaoxian replied. Why bother to marry? Once married, I will be busy doing housework and taking care of children and wont have time to earn money. Besides, I cant find a better man than your brother. When she mentioned Xiao Baoshan, her voice became very low. Lately, she had carefully analyzed everything about him. He was so honest, upright and brilliant as a great general. When with her, he had been an exceptionally considerate husband. The letter of divorce had been written to protect her. The more she thought about it, the more she missed him. But sadly, it was toote for her to realize this. He had left her so fast that she hadnt felt enough of his love. While she was down, someone patted her on the shoulder. Youre here! She turned around and saw Tarico standing behind her joyfully. Why are you here? she asked in surprise as she ced an agate ne back down on the stall. I heard that you were here, so I also came out to have a look. You know, I happen to be free. He replied as he spotted the agate ne. Chapter 239 - Returning Fruitfully

Chapter 239: Returning Fruitfully

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Arent you buying it? Tarico pointed at the ne. Ye Xiaoxian shook her head. Its a little expensive. Two taels. Taking Xiao Baozhus arm, she asked him, Do you want to buy anything? Were going shopping. Since what the two women were buying was womens things, it would be strange for him to follow them. Go ahead. I want to have a walk nearby. Oh yes, be careful, as I see there are quite a few thieves around here. Okay, we will. Take care of yourself also! Ye Xiaoxian replied with a smile. After they left, Tarico picked up the agate ne and asked in the local dialect, Two taels? He had learned these two simple words on the way there. The stall owner nodded. Without hesitation, Tarico gave him two silver taels. ... After counting Ye Xiaoxians goods, Mr. Cai sent his men to purchase the many local materials on her list. They included popr products such as porcin, silk and silver works, along with some fabrics. The people living below the Tianshan Mountains liked colorful things very much, but their weaving skills were rtively inferior. Therefore, these fabrics would sell well in the tribe. Apart from these, there were some other specialties. Finally, the 20-odd camels were again fullyden. Then, they started backtracking. Crossing the desert, they returned to the tribal market. Soon, half of the goods were snapped up. The rest were transported into town and sold out within two days. In the end, they earned over 60 silver taels. As long as they did it a dozen times, they could then break even! Seeing them back safe, the Xiaos and the Lius were overjoyed. They asked whether there was any trouble on the way. After learning that everything had gone smoothly, many of them said they also wanted to go with the camel team next time. Xiao Tongshu, especially, was fascinated by Xiao Tieshus description of Beihui citys prosperity and of the deserts magnificence. He was resolute to see the scenes in person on the next journey. Li Hongmei and Wong Mudan, who were responsible for logistics, quickly went to prepare some food. During thest few days, they hadnt eaten or slept well, as they had been waiting for the camel team to return. Now that everyone was back, the rest of the bacon was cooked for dinner. ... The news that they had returned reached Mahals ears. He sent his men to inquire about it and learned that the three families had earned over 60 taels in total. That made Mahal more than envious. If things kept going like this, these people could earn back their costs within one year, after which they would begin making profits. It was noted that local familys had a low ie of, at most, two taels. But the Xiaos, the Lius and Tarico could respectively earn more than 20 taels at a time. If they went to and fro seven or eight times a year, each was able to make over 100 taels and would qualify as the richest in the tribe. Mahal was extraordinarily agitated. The tribe here developed from a primitive one. Before being ruled by Daqi, the tribal leader was selected ording to strength and money. If Mahal was outstripped in wealth, he might lose his position. Dati went back right on time. Seeing her husband pacing back and forth anxiously, she knew he had learned the news about the three families who hade back with great gains. They must be blessed by the mountain gods, otherwise they might have died in the desert, Dati said angrily. But I dont believe they will always be so lucky. They will have an ident next time! Mahal said, Tarico knows a lot of people. He asked Ji, an old man known as Desert Eagle, to lead the way. Its said that this man can walk out of the desert with his eyes closed. Why does he help them? she asked. Firstly, its for money. And secondly, he also has two camels and sells his goods the same way. It doesnt bother him to be their guide. Mahal exined. I have an idea. Why dont we ask him not to help them, or... A trace of slyness appeared on Datis face. He asked, Why must he listen to you? Didnt you say he helped them for his own good? If so, he will certainly give up the current benefits for greater ones. After a pause, she added, s, you men have no brains in this aspect. Just let me do it. Mahal took a peek outside to ensure that no one was eavesdropping. After that, he ran back and said, Okay, but you must do it carefully. Dont let anyone find out. Sure, Dati said proudly. Wait for my good news. ... In the evening, Ye Xiaoxian, Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu went back to their bedroom after taking a bath. Only then did Ye Xiaoxian take out the presents bought from Beihui city, including candied fruits, hairpins and nes. Li Hongmei asked in a whisper, Only I have these? No one else? Since the two families united, they had been sharing almost everything and seldom made personal gains. Therefore, Li Hongmei was very nervous when receiving presents from Ye Xiaoxian. If the others knew she had hogged the food and jewelry, she would be more than embarrassed. Ye Xiaoxian replied in a low voice, Mom, they also have presents, though not from me. Uncle Tieshu has bought snacks for the children. Jia Zhenbo bought nuts for his family and also jewelry for Qianqian. They thought they did that very secretly, but Baozhu and I found out. Perhaps they also knew I bought things for you, but we all pretended that nothing had happened. Try some, Mom. There is no such food here. Relieved, Li Hongmei put a candied fruit into her mouth. It tasted so pleasantly sweet that she had a big grin on her face. Sinceing to the tribe, she hadnt eaten such sweet treats for a long time. With her stomach unsatisfied, she didnt stop until she had five or six more. She said to Xiao Baozhu and Ye Xiaoxian, Why dont you eat? The fruits are too many for me alone. Xiao Baozhu replied, Ive eaten so many that Im tired of these. I have no appetite for them now. Ye Xiaoxian also said, Yes. When we were in Beihui city, Baozhu and I went out every day and did nothing but eat. Mom, Ive also bought some fabrics. Summer ising. I hope you can sew some clothes for us in the local style. Okay. Then... are the fabrics also for us only? Li Hongmei asked. Chapter 240 - A Potential Agreement

Chapter 240: A Potential Agreement

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian said with a smile, After returning some to Li Chengru, we still have money to share. Whoever gets the money can buy whatever he or she wants. If they have bought fabrics, they can also make clothes. Even if they havent, they will buy some after seeing our new clothes. Dont worry. After saying this, she went off to apply some face cream. The cream was also bought in Beihui city. After a long journey across the desert, her skin had be dry and dark, so hydration became very essential. Although the cream couldntpete with modern skincare products, it was better than nothing. ... The next day, Tarico came over. He came for two purposes; to feed the camels and to discuss with the two families when to set off next time. Since he visited frequently, he became much more familiar with them. Sometimes he learned theirnguage and could now understand simple conversations. The camel feeding was led by Tarico and assisted by the logistics team. After deciding on the next departure time, they began purchasing materials. This time, what the camel team wanted was known to many tribes. Wherever they went, they found the locals waiting for them with materials to sell. Bit by bit, the products they collected for a day could fill a camels back. While purchasing, Ye Xiaoxian asked Tarico, Have you noticed the rules of the desert? Do you know what we should be careful about? Tarico had certainly noticed some secrets about the desert. He was an independent thinker with a strong learning ability. Since he went across the desert with Ji the first time, he had been observing the phenomena there. He nodded. Yes, I know some. Ye Xiaoxian said, Ji is Desert Eagle and is more familiar with the desert than us. But he isnt willing tomunicate with us or share his experience. Heughed. Everyone has his advantage which he takes as his survival means and wont tell others easily. Not everybody is like me, telling you my fishing secrets. She smiled with gratitude and said, But I think we should gain experience by ourselves and not rely on Ji all the time. If he refuses to guide us one day or make a requirement that we cant satisfy, we will be put in a tricky situation. Tarico looked at her with admiration. He, in fact, had the same idea. He was aware of Jis slyness and selfishness and wouldnt have hired him if there had been someone else with his experience. He asked, After this journey, have you learned anything useful? So Ye Xiaoxian told him what she had noticed about the stars and the ripples of sand. These were consistent with his discoveries over all these years. He had also picked up some other experience, including how to handle bandits and how to respond to a sandstorm. The whole way, they talked very congenially. There were several times that he put his hand in his pocket for the agate ne. But since Squire Liu and his servant were with them, he hadnt had a chance to give her the present. ... Being an old hand, Ji was also purchasing a new batch of products. Since he had only two camels, he didnt need to go elsewhere to collect materials. When he passed Datis house one day, she was hanging up theundry. Seeing him, she beckoned him over. Hey, Ji! Ji asked, Madam, do you want to sell anything? Mutton jerky or beef jerky? Come here. I have something to discuss with you. Dati said. After tying his camels to a stake, he went over to her. Dati ordinarily ignored him, but this time, she invited him into the yurt and even entertained him with milk tea. As a shrewd man, Ji saw through her intentions at once. Madam, do you want me to do anything? Dati then began asking, You joined the camel team, right? How did you cross the desert? Did you really earn a lot of money? How did you make it? Ji replied, They have a friend who owns a trading agent in Beihui city, so they only needed to transport the goods there. The business is certainly profitable. Theyve earned dozens of taels from this journey. After all, they have so many camels. She asked, What about you? Ive merely earned some by guiding. Dati tried to stir things up. They have over 20 camels, but you have only two. The products they carry are certainly more than yours. Arent you afraid that they will get rid of you once they be familiar with the desert? What if they put you out of business? Ji heard the ill will in her voice. As long as he split from Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions, they would be forced to stop this business. He smiled. Im called Desert Eagle because of my rich experience. Even if I guide them dozens of times, they wont be able to learn the directions. So, really, they cant do the business without me. Youre so confident, Dati responded. How much can you earn by guiding them and selling your goods? He gestured a number with his fingers and said, Eight taels. It sounds enough for you, but it wont be more. Even if theyre willing to pay you more, itll only be a small sum. You have only two camels to carry a few goods each time, right? Ji then asked, Do you have any instructions? Dati smiled and said euphemistically, You will know what to do. We can prepare products together and you can sell them across the desert. If I have camels, I will give you 10 taels for guiding and also 30% of the profits made. ... Ji understood her meaning very well. Her intention was even more clear when she said, If I have camels. How could she have camels? Now that she didnt buy camels, she must want to take those belonging to Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions. To meet this end, she had to make them disappear, and the desert was the best ce tomit murder. Those who followed the camel team were all strong men, including the Seventh Kings two powerful guards. If they died, there were only elders, children and women in the two families. By then, they could only sell the camels. As long as Dati bought them, she could then have her own camel team. If she kept her promise, Ji would earn much more money. Ji didnt agree right away, and Dati also didnt urge him. Neither of them continued the conversation. When they decided to cooperate, they would reach the agreement naturally. Chapter 241 - Jerky Reprocessing

Chapter 241: Jerky Reprocessing

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio After purchasing the materials, it was time for departure again. This time, Ye Xiaoxian still followed the camel team. Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Tieshu were reced by Liu Qianqian and Xiao Tongshu. The others remained the same. Last time, Ye Xiaoxian had been always together with Xiao Baozhu. But this time, Liu Qianqian and Jia Zhenbo were put together, so Ye Xiaoxian walked closer to Tarico. During rest, Ye Xiaoxian and Tarico usually analyzed the route and environment as they kept a secret eye on Ji. Ji was only responsible for guiding, showing no interest in anything else. When resting, he drank water alone and fed only his own camels. When they reached Beihui city, Ye Xiaoxian paid attention to Ji again. While everyone was exhausted, Ji became enthusiastic about Mr. Cai, talking about everything under the sun with him. His fluency in themonnguage helped their conversations greatly. Seeing this, Ye Xiaoxian became somewhat suspicious. Why was Ji so enthusiastic about Mr. Cai? Did he want to stop cooperation with them and make deals with Mr. Cai directly in the future? When Ye Xiaoxian told Tarico about this, he looked very serious. But after a while, he smiled and said, Its good to be careful. As you often say, prevention is better than a cure. On arriving in Beihui city, Jia Zhenbo and Liu Qianqian went to spend some time alone together. Though without a femalepanion, Ye Xiaoxian also went out to have fun with Tarico. While they ate snacks together, she taught him how to say the names of foods in the local dialect and also introduced to him the locals favorite specialties. One afternoon, they went to an eatery for wontons. Suddenly, Tarico took out the agate ne and handed it to Ye Xiaoxian. He said in a casual tone, This is for you. Huh? Where did you get this? Although she liked this ne, she had no memory of it. After all, she had had merely a casual look at it back to then. Taricoughed and said, A stall up ahead. The owner thought you were my wife and said she could sell it to me at a lower price if I wanted it. She looked poor, so I just bought it. Anyway, I dont have a wife. You can take it. She declined, You should keep it for your future wife. Tarico said, Who knows how long Ill have to wait. Im careless and not good at keeping things. If you dont take this ne, perhaps Ill lose it in a few days. Besides, this is useless for a man. People may misunderstand me if they see it. Convinced by his exnation, she didnt think much of his intentions. Seeing as he insisted, she might as well take the ne. But she put it in her pocket instead of wearing it on her neck. Seeing that, he opened his mouth, but the words wouldnte out. In any case, he had given her the gift. It was up to her whether to wear it or not. ... On the way back to the tribe, Ye Xiaoxian was lost in deep thought. This time, they had exported plenty of dried fruits and beef jerky, which was worth celebrating. But since the ways of making beef jerky differed from family to family, the taste also varied greatly. If they could blend all of these vors into one that people on the Central ins liked, the business might attract more customers. The same was true of the cotton. Baoning city was rich in cotton, and almost all the local families nted it. But, concerning the weaving level and pattern variety, it was outshone by that of the Central ins. Would it be better to hire several weavers from the Central ins? This way, they could upgrade the fabrics before selling them. Ye Xiaoxian could improve the taste of beef jerky by herself. As for weaving, she would have to discuss that with Mr. Cai when she went to the Central ins next time. They were better with the camel team, but they couldnt simply do transportation because such a business model was too easily imitated. Once copied, it would be less profitable. For example, if a second person also invested in a camel team, he or she wouldpete with them for business. But if Ye Xiaoxian processed the materials into something unique, she would still have an advantage over others. This business model would be less likely to be copied. After learning of her idea, Tarico agreed immediately and said it was very smart to do so. As a native of the Central ins, she knew what vors the people there liked. If the food they sold tasted good, it would gain apetitive advantage. Besides, processed beef jerky could be more popr and preserved longer. As for fabric processing, it needed further discussion. ... Back for the second time, the camel teams profits were more than those of the previous time. The journey also proved shorter by two days. Once again, they celebrated it joyfully. Learning the news, Mahal felt even more pressured. These people were threatening him all the time. Helplessly, he asked Dati to have a frank talk with Ji again and be specific about what to do and how to share the profits in the future. Therefore, Dati visited Ji in person on a starless night. ... Once again, Ye Xiaoxian collected a lot of jerky from the tribes. She and herpanions tasted the jerky one by one, picked out the best and studied its cooking process and the ingredients used. Some locals were rather mean with their ingredients, but they felt that some people would want to buy their jerky anyway. Byparison, some were generous and foresighted, seeking a long-term cooperation with the camel team. Attitudes determined future cooperation. Ye Xiaoxian kept each familys credibility secretly in mind. At the same time, she asked Tarico to tell the locals that they could sell the meat raw for a slightly lower price. When the camel team set off the third time, Ye Xiaoxian stayed in the tribe to purchase raw meat with Squire Liu and make it into jerky by herself. Also, since spring was a good season for nting trees, she bought some fruit saplings from the market and nted them on the back hill with herpanions. ... When it was almost summer, Ye Xiaoxian followed the camel team again with the beef jerky shed made. Since her own jerky was better in quality and taste, she decided to ask Mr. Cai to raise the price. This time, Liu Qianqian stayed at home and Xiao Baozhu offered to go with Ye Xiaoxian. The desert was so boundless that every journey was a tormenting process. But the prosperity of Beihui city and the high profits were upholding and uplifting them to press on. Chapter 242 - Sandstorm

Chapter 242: Sandstorm

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio However, this journey was quite different. The previous few times, the desert had been very calm. Tarico said Ji could tell from the stars when there were high winds in the desert, so Ji could help them avoid the risks of traveling onward on a windy day. This time, it was obviously blowy and dark in the desert. Ye Xiaoxian had read some books about desert climates, through which she knew the desert was mostly dry with sunshine and asionally saw rainfall. The wind and rain in the desert were more dangerous than elsewhere. They could prove deadly. Ye Xiaoxian caught up with Tarico and asked him to inquire about whether it was going to rain. At this moment, Tarico stopped being yful and looked exceptionally serious. He rode up to Jis side, talking to him for a while. Then, he went back and told Ye Xiaoxian, He said it wouldnt be rainy but at most windy. Ye Xiaoxian was dubious. The wind was terrible in the desert. It could cause a sandstorm that would bury people alive. Highly vignt, she shouted behind her, Be careful of the wind and sand! If the wind bes stronger, we must protect ourselves well. Cover our mouths and noses and dont let the sand in. Ji turned around and stared at her, as if thinking she was being troublesome. Catching his re, she felt that he seemed very suspicious. He must be plotting something. If so, it was essential to watch out for him. Perhaps, he would murder them in order to take their property. She tried hard to recall the books and films she had read or watched, thinking about how to face a sandstorm in a desert. However, time had clouded her memory. She only remembered how terrible a sandstorm was instead of how to respond to such weather. As such, she could only keep a close eye on Ji and see what he would do to protect himself. ... The sky became gloomier and darker. The wind also got stronger,ing gust after gust. The camels also grew restless as the sand reached their shins. Ye Xiaoxian shouted, Tarico, shall we stop to take shelter from the wind? The wind was too strong. Despite wearing a veil, she felt a lot of sand blowing into her mouth when she spoke. The sand filling the air blurred her view of the people in front of her. She was not sure whether Tarico had heard her voice or not. Apart from her, the others were also starting to panic. Blinded by the sand, they called out to each other loudly. If they didnt hear the responses, they would feel even more nervous. After a while, she finally recognized Taricos voice from the noises, Stay where you are and wait for me! Ye Xiaoxian then warned loudly, Everyone, stop! But Ji said, Theres a sand dune ahead. Hurry and hide on the leeward side! Hearing that, all the people hastily flocked to the dune. Ye Xiaoxian also hurried over there without a second thought. But after two steps, she realized that something was wrong. They shouldnt hide behind a dune as it was not as strong as a wall. They would be buried in the sand even faster. She soon, awoke to the danger. Ji gave the wrong instruction on purpose! He wanted to kill them! Ye Xiaoxian yelled at once, Dont go there! Stop! Her voice was sharp with worry. Since her people were used to listening to her, they stopped instantly. Ji cried again, Do you want to die here? Do you believe me or her? We dont have time to waste! Ye Xiaoxian tried to bring Tarico to his senses. Tarico, think about it! Can we hide behind a sand dune when theres wind? Hearing that, Tarico finally came to reason. He had almost fallen into the trap out while flustered. But where else could they hide? At this critical moment, he remembered that when Ji had been once drunk, he had mentioned how he protected himself facing a sandstorm. The best way was to make the camels lie on the windward side and hide behind them with noses and mouths covered. So Tarico looked back and instructed, Dont panic! Get off the camels now. Ji was irritated into cursing. Tarico, how could you listen to a woman? Im Desert Eagle! If you listen to her, youll all die here! As the sandstorm became increasingly fierce, they failed to recognize each others faces. In the flying sand, their figures were as vague as ghosts. Tarico shouted, Then you can go and hide behind the dune. The others get off the camels and pull them into a line. Hurry up! Wong Wen and Wong Wu obeyed Ye Xiaoxians instructions because of Li Chengru. Xiao Baozhu and Xiao Tieshu trusted her unconditionally. Although Dawu and Jia Zhenbo doubted her judgment they still listened to her, as she had proven her ability to survive all these years. They hid behind the camels and covered their mouths and noses. With the camels protection, they managed to stop the sand from hitting their faces. They covered their heads, especially their noses, as they ensured that they wouldnt be suffocated. But as long as the wind blew, the sand still stung their skin. Just like a flood, the wind soon buried their legs and then their upper bodies. They could only shake the sand off their clothes from time to time. Although they were worried about each other, they couldnt speak, or the sand would fill their mouths and noses in a second. The sandstormsted for half an hour. It isted everybody from each other. Every time a gust of wind blew, they would feel a wave of helplessness. Ye Xiaoxian didnt dare to move. To save energy, she did nothing except for shaking off the sand. But as the sand umted, she could only trample the new sand underfoot, lifting herself higher and higher. She had no idea whether the others were safe or not. Among all the people, she worried about Xiao Baozhu most. She remembered that Baozhu was behind her and guessed she would find Baozhu by moving a little. So she took two steps back and fumbled along the camels. To her surprise, she really touched someone. She thought it was Xiao Baozhu, but, strangely, this person had strong arms and appeared to be a man. Chapter 243 - Ji’s Second Murder

Chapter 243. Jis Second Murder

Suddenly, something was put on Ye Xiaoxians head, protecting her face from some of the sand. She opened her eyes slowly. Only then did she realize that the person in front of her was Tarico. He was wearing a wide-brimmed hat that looked like a southern bamboo one and was tough enough to give some protection from the sand. Since the hat was not that big, it could hardly protect both of them. Without hesitation, Tarico held her tightly in his arms. She didnt resist it. Amid the raging sandstorm, he created a small cocoon around them where she could feel his warmth and caring. In such a situation, she didnt feel offended. It was purely for protection. It was just like an ident she once confronted when she started her career as a cook. With ack of qualifications, she had to work in an ordinary restaurant where fire safety was neglected. There was once a fire in the restaurant and she was trapped inside. When she was almost choked by the thick smoke, two firefighters rushed in, found her, and escorted her out. Such physical contact was unavoidable in saving her and made her feel warm. Now, she thought of Xiao Baozhu again, hoping that Tarico could help her also. But she couldnt speak and had to wait. Slowly, the wind weakened, the impact of the sandstorm softened and her vision began to clear. She was still held in Taricos arms. Feeling that the sandstorm had abated, she had a nce at him and found he was also looking at her. His eyes were burning with affection. Unlike a firefighters, they were mixed with other emotions beyond care. Stunned, she took a step back subconsciously. But he didnt look away and instead gazed at her with greater passion. She suddenly realized something. Squire Liu had once hinted that if she wanted to marry, Tarico would be a good choice. Had he seen Taricos special feelings for her? As the howl of the wind continued to lessen, she heard someone spit the sand out of their mouth. A man then shouted, Are you all right? She also began to spit out sand. The camels moved, shaking off the sand before standing up slowly. Then, Ye Xiaoxian saw a few men rise one after another. After thest gust of wind, the peoples faces became clearer. Ye Xiaoxian began to look for Xiao Baozhu. Seeing Baozhu half-buried in the sand, she hurried over to pull her out. Fortunately, Xiao Baozhu wasnt hurt. She was just a little terrified. After spitting out the sand, she threw her arms around Ye Xiaoxian. Sister Ye, I thought I was going to die here. Dont be afraid. The wind in the desert is just like this. Everything will be fine. Look, youre all right, arent you? Xiao Baozhu asked, How is Uncle Tieshu now? They began calling out to Xiao Tieshu loudly. Soon, the saw him emerge with a dirty face and sand all over. It took him a long while to shake the sand off. The rest of the people also stood up one by one, coated in sand. Eventually, the wind stopped. Ye Xiaoxian took off her cowhide bottle and gargled with water. Xiao Baozhu followed suit. Although it was a little extravagant, they would feel very ufortable if they didnt rinse the sand out of their mouths. The others also gargled before gathering slowly together. Ye Xiaoxian then counted heads. Thankfully, none of them were missing. Except for Ji. Wheres Ji? she asked. The others shook their heads and said they hadnt seen him. Tarico also couldnt find him. That wily old fox must have slipped away in the sandstorm. With his rich experience, he could deal with such a storm easily. Ye Xiaoxian pointed at the front and said, Look, the sand dune was there. Ji asked us to hide behind it, but its disappeared now. The others looked to where she pointed and found the five-meter dune had be a small pile of sand. It was such a blessing that they had not gone there, or they might have been buried alive. Did he want to murder us? Wong Wen asked. That goes without saying. He wanted to kill us. I knew he wasnt a good guy, Wong Wu said. Xiao Tieshu asked, Why would he do that? Its safe to say that he wanted our property. If we die, he can take all our things freely, Wong Wen exined. Xiao Tieshu fell into silence. Wong Wen and Wong Wu came from the Seventh Kings pce and had seen much of the world in the capital. Their words were very convincing. Dawu asked, Did he run away because his n failed and he wanted to trap us in the desert? Xiao Tieshu looked discouraged. Oh, we survived the sandstorm. But how can we get out of the desert by ourselves? They looked at Tarico in unison, hoping that he could lead them out. Tarico didnt show any nervousness. He lifted his cowhide bottle to his mouth and took two gulps of water. Then, he said confidently, Follow me! So they mounted the camels again and followed him onward. The sun was nowhere to be seen in the sky and the desert was as empty as usual. They couldnt distinguish directions at all. Neither could Ye Xiaoxian. She looked up at the sky but only saw denseyers of cloud. After the sandstorm, the ridges on the desert hadpletely changed. The dunes had been reshuffled, making it hard to distinguish from which direction they hade. At this moment, they could only trust Tarico. Gradually, night fell again. Thankfully, the clouds dispersed in the night sky, revealing the bright stars. They could finally tell the directions from the stars. Seeing the Pole Star, Ye Xiaoxian knew Tarico was going the right way. They then set up theit tents. Tarico got a bucket from a camel and allocated water for everyone. When he came up to Ye Xiaoxian, his zing eyes lingered slightly longer on her. Again, she was stunned. But soon, she behaved as if nothing had happened. Getting no response from her, he went away todle water for the next person. The brilliant stars generously illuminated the desert. The men swept the sand off the camels and cleaned the items that were soiled. They didnt make the twodies do this rough work, so Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu got into the tent and slept early. Chapter 244 - Slander Against Tarico

Chapter 244. nder Against Tarico

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio After such an episode, they were all wide awake. When the fire in the middle of their camp was about to go out, Tarico added a few logs to it and made it re into life. Angrily, he interrogated Ji as to what his purpose was and why he failed the god of the Tianshan mountains. But Ji gave Tarico the cold shoulder. Whatever Tarico asked, he just stared closely at the fire in front of him, behaving just like a rascal. With his mouth feeling dry, Tarico gave Ji a kick and stopped asking. After sitting for a while, they were hit by drowsiness again. Xiao Tieshu said goodnight to everyone before he continued his sleep. After guarding for the first half of the night, Wong Wen also went to sleep. Tarico looked at Ye Xiaoxian, hinting to her to get some rest. So, she dragged Xiao Baozhus sleeve and asked her to go back to the tent together. For a moment, they were either changing shifts or going to sleep. No one was keeping an eye on Ji. Knowing it was a good opportunity, Ji suddenly jumped up to kick the fire wildly. The burning firewood was scattered in all directions and some flew into the sand near the tents. Worried about their property, the people hurried to save the tents and Ji was left alone. After putting out the fire, they turned around and wanted to teach Ji a harder lesson. Just then, they heard the howls of wolves. The fire in the middle had been extinguished by Ji. In the darkness, they could see not only stars but also some blue light spots nearby. Wolves! ording to the number of points of light they could see, there were seven wolves. It was Ji who had attracted the wolves over. He had been watching the fire because he knew wolves were afraid of it. As long as he put out the fire, the wolves would then approach and attack these people. With quick thinking, Ye Xiaoxian hastened to ignite the fire. Xiao Baozhu also came to offer help. They set up the firewood nervously, but somehow, they couldnt spark the paper roll used as a firelighter. As the wolves got closer, Wong Wen and Wong Wu took out their weapons right away. Tarico was also poised with a bow and arrows. Jia Zhenbo was terrified and hid behind the camels, but he knew he couldnt act like a deserter, so he also picked up a log as a weapon. If any wolves approached, he would use the log to hit it. Ji burst outughing and shouted in the local dialect, Now that you survived the sandstorm, I can only let these wolves eat you! Dawu, who tended to simplify the problem, was standing right beside Ji. Aware of what happened, he knocked Ji out lest this old guymand the wolves to attack them. As long as Ji was unconsious, no one would direct these wolves. As theughter stopped, Ji fell to the sand. Just then, Xiao Baozhu finally lit the firewood. The fire slowed down the approach of the wolves. The two sides confronted each other tentatively again. Wong Wen asked, What should we do now? Shall we fight or not? Eyes locked on the wolves, Wong Wen suggested, Fight! Im afraid the standoff willst until dawn if we dont take action. Those wolves might not get tired but we will, and well have no strength to continue our journey. Besides, they are no match for us. Okay! Lets fight with them! Wong Wen drew his sword. Wong Wen and Wong Wu were outstanding martial artists. The number of the wolves was in their control and they had the confidence to kill at least six wolves. Tarico also yed an important role as a crack shot. Swiftly, he shot an arrow at a wolf. With a growl, the wolf copsed to the ground in pain. But Taricos arrows were made of wood rather than iron, so the wolf was hurt but not killed. Irritated, the other wolves rushed at them fiercely. Tarico drew another arrow and shot again, trying to weaken the wolves fighting force. Wong Wen and Wong Wu also dashed over to fight the wolves. Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu were scared because some smart wolves might go round to the back to attack the weak like them. Therefore, they also took out the knives they had prepared in advance. They pumped each other up. Wolves are nothing to be afraid of. They are just like dogs. The wolves in the desert are even weaker. They are thin with little food and strength. Yes! We are not afraid of the dogs in the vige, let alone these wolves! Xiao Baozhu echoed in a trembling voice. ... When they had just finished speaking, a wolf approached them. Since they were close to the fire, it took no action for the time being, but was staring at them from three meters away. Ye Xiaoxians heartbeat quickened. Wolves and dogs were two very different kinds of creature. She had never seen such ferocious eyes, seemingly shinning with green light. The wolf might have been starving for days and would pounce at them at any moment. Suddenly, she felt a swift wind blowing past in front of her. With a swoosh, the wolf fell onto the ground, growling in pain. It was Tarico. He noticed the danger they confronted and fired an arrow to save them in time. Ye Xiaoxian looked gratefully at him. He went on aiming at the other wolves. The fightsted for almost half an hour. The wolves were either dead or injured and the desert became quiet again. Wong Wen and Wong Wu cursed the wolves, How dare you attack us! Dont you know where we are from? Xiao Tieshu blurted out, The capital! Were from the Seventh Kings pce in the capital! Wong Wu said. We dont have much time to sleep now. What about peeling off their skins to sell and eating their meat? Dawu asked, Is their meat any good? Ye Xiaoxian thought of the poisonous snakes and scorpions which these wolves might usually eat. As such, the wolves were likely to carry viruses. She said, Just peel off their skins. Dont eat their meat. It smells gamey and may poisonous. So, they began skinning the wolves and didnt rest until dawn. After daybreak, Ji finally regained consciousness. He touched his head at once. Except for the swelling caused by Dawu, there were no other injuries. Looking around, he was astonished. He had thought all the people would have been mauled to death. He indeed saw dead bodies all around him, but they were all those of the wolves. They had been skinned and Dawu was busy loading them onto a camel. Ji was more than surprised to see that all the wolves had been killed. Only then did he realize Wong Wen and Wong Wu were not people to be messed with. Dawu was the first to notice that Ji was awake. He cried at once, Ji has woken up. What should we do with him? Wong Wu felt disgusted seeing Jis face and said impatiently, Just knock him out, or he will get us into trouble again. No, I... Ji hurried to exin. But Dawu had picked up a log and knocked him to the ground. ... All the way, Tarico discussed with Ye Xiaoxian which way to go and the others also gave their opinions. With joint efforts, they fumbled onward and, after a few days, had finally crossed the desert. Midway, they saw Jis two camels. Tarico jumped off to check on them and found some food that wolves loved in Jis satchel. Wolves were intelligent animals. They could recognize people who fed them frequently. For this reason, the wolves in the desert listened to Jismands. Tarico and Ye Xiaoxian believed that Ji had more secrets. Perhaps this old guy had even cultivated good rtions with bandits. As such, they certainly couldnt spare Ji this time. On arriving in Beihui city, they handed Ji over to the government and told the official what crime he hadmitted. Since Wong Wen and Wong Wu had a si, the official began to interrogate Ji right away. If he was convicted of the crime, he would be imprisoned for at least five years. In the government office, Ji was yelling, You cant put me in prison! Without me, you wont return to the tribe. You may encounter a sandstorm or an even worse weather. You dont know when to set off and when not to. The desert swallows people! Dont you know that? Facing Jis threat, Xiao Tieshu and Dawu appeared somewhat worried. What if they really couldnt go back? But Ye Xiaoxian and Tarico were determined not to keep Ji with them. Even if they needed his guidance, they couldnt afford his repeated mischief. There might be one day that he would manage to kill all of them. Ye Xiaoxian said, He must be imprisoned. Tarico exined, Although were not as familiar with the desert as him, we can umte experience by ourselves. I believe it wont be long before we be Desert Eagles ourselves. Wong Wen and Wong Wu also didnt want Ji with them. After surviving a sandstorm and a pack of wolves, they were now fearless. Before Ji was put behind bars, he looked over his shoulder and cried, I didnt want to hurt you at first! Someone asked me to do it! Do you know who it was? Tarico asked, Who? Ji suddenly pointed at Tarico. It was you, Tarico! It was you who conspired with me! But you betrayed me! You want to hog all their goods and camels, right? The others looked at Tarico in surprise. Was Ji telling the truth? Or was he simply trying to cause a rift between Tarico and them before being locked up? Tarico turned to Ye Xiaoxian immediately and said, I swear to the god of Tianshan Mountains, if I really conspired with him, Im willing to ept any punishment! God can iste me from the tribe forever or tear me to shreds! Ye Xiaoxian was stunned for a second and then assured the others, Ji is sowing discord among us. Dont be fooled by him. We must keep this treacherous man in the cell! With her guarantee for Tarico, the others gave up on interrogating him. But secretly, the seed of suspicion had been sown in their hearts. Would Tarico scheme against them like Ji? They decided to keep on guard against him. After all, caution was the parent of safety. Chapter 245 - Its My Business if I Like You

Chapter 245. Its My Business if I Like You

Coming out of the government office, Tarico caught up with Ye Xiaoxian and assured her, Little Ye, I really didnt collude with Ji. Without any doubt, she trusted him, but he exined to only her in front of all the people. This embarrassed her a little. She looked at his nervous face and smiled. I certainly believe you. Then, she added, We all believe Tarico, right? She nudged Xiao Baozhu who had be much more mature and knew why Tarico hurried to exin to her sister-inw. To dissolve Ye Xiaoxians awkwardness, Xiao Baozhu said to Tarico immediately, Yes, we all believe you. How could you possibly do that? We know youre not such a man. Then, she turned to Xiao Tieshu. Uncle Tieshu, do you agree? Ye-yes! Everyone could tell Tarico cared about Ye Xiaoxian from his nervous expression and behavior. To ease the atmosphere, he asked the next person, Dawu, do you agree? Ye Xiaoxian was rendered speechless. They were making her even more bashful. She looked at Tarico who seemed to realize his recklessness. Embarrassed, he scratched his head and said, Now that you all believe me, I... Im relieved. ... After returning to the inn, Xiao Baozhu packed up her things as she said, Sister Ye, Tarico likes you. His behavior has shown it clearly to us. Ye Xiaoxian, being a sensitive woman, naturally noticed. His gantry, agate ne and affectionate gaze all conveyed his love for her. It was too evident for her to ignore. Do you like him? Xiao Baozhu asked. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Kind of, but not in the way youre thinking. How will you respond? Ye Xiaoxian shook her head. Tarico hadnt exactly told her, so she didnt know how to respond. It was impossible for her to say, Tarico, you cant like me. Or, Tarico, do you like me? It would make things even more embarrassing if he then replied, Well, actually I dont like you. While thinking about it, she heard a knock at the door. She opened the door and found it was Tarico. Yes? she asked calmly. He hesitated for a second before he said with forced lightness, Are you two going out to have dinner? What about letting me treat you this time? She thought for a while and replied, I want to go out with you alone. Tarico was stunned. She went on with a smile, Ill take a bath first and see youter. Then, she closed the door. Standing outside, Tarico was stunned. After a while, he hurried downstairs to ask a waiter to send him some water. He also decided to take a bath. ... Xiao Baozhu was confused. Sister Ye, if you dont like Tarico, why go out with him alone? Ye Xiaoxian said, I want to find out how on earth he feels about me. Xiao Baozhu disagreed, But I think you can give him more time. Hes a kind and responsible man, and you... you will marry one day. Not now, anyway. Ye Xiaoxian took out some clothes. I have to take a bath to wash off the sand now. Baozhu, you can stay in the inn tonight. Ill bring you some food when I get back. Xiao Baozhu could only hold back and keep her thoughts to herself. All right... its up to you. ... The night market was as busy as usual. Ye Xiaoxian and Tarico set off side by side. They walked into a nearby restaurant and sat down in a quiet corner. All the way, Tarico had walked at a brisk pace with happiness written across his face. Owing to thenguage barrier, he beckoned a waiter over and said to Ye Xiaoxian, Order anything you like. Its my treat. She only ordered two simple dishes. Seeing his joyful appearance, she suddenly felt herself too merciless. But she had once read that one shouldnt give false hope to his or her admirer because that would be another kind of harm. Generally, men were more realistic than women. If they were rejected, they wouldnt continue wasting time or energy on the pursued. Instead, they would immediately turn to the next target. Soon, the dishes were served. Ye Xiaoxian gave a pair of chopsticks to Tarico and said while eating, We cant just eat. Lets chat. Okay. Heady with happiness, he didnt know what to say. But he knew Ye Xiaoxian was good with small talk, so he let her start the conversation. She picked up a rib for him and another for herself. Then, she said, Do you know I had a husband before? Tarico was pleased about with how considerate she was being with him, but what she had just said really stunned him. Why did she mention her ex-husband? Was she worried that he would be bothered by her past? He said right away, So, so what? Everyone has a past. The people in our tribe dont care about this. She continued, He was kind and upright and was once a great general. I remember him very fondly. Certainly, I hated him when he left without saying goodbye. But then, I knew he did that to protect me, so I dont hate him now. I miss him. A serious expression crept across his face. He put down the chopsticks and listened to her words attentively. She let out a sigh. After knowing such a good man, I find it difficult to fall in love with anyone else. I dont want to remarry. Seeing Taricos depressed expression, she smiled withposure. Oh, why am I telling you about this? Lets talk about our next n. When shall we return to the tribe? Can we cross the desert without Ji? He looked quite gloomy. Ye Xiaoxian had mentioned her ex-husband seemingly inadvertently, but she was in fact implying something. He realized that she may know of his feelings for her and said that on purpose as a rejection. He gazed at her with affection and said straightforwardly, Little Ye, you dont mean to discuss how to go back, right? Ive understood what you said. Ye Xiaoxian felt awkward again. His frankness really spoiled the delicate atmosphere. Suddenly, he said with a smile, Its my business if I like you and its yours if you dont like me. It doesnt matter. There is no conflict between us. Chapter 246 - Compliments

Chapter 246. Compliments

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio During dinner, both Ye Xiaoxian and Tarico were somewhat absent-minded and feeling embarrassed. It was as if they were chewing on cotton rather than food. After the meal, Tarico insisted that he pay the bill and asked if Ye wanted to go shopping. She said she was tired and needed a rest in the inn. So, he could only follow her back. When they left the restaurant, they didnt walk side by side. Ye Xiaoxian slowed down her pace on purpose and walked behind him. Tarico thought she was angry and tried to give her some space. On the way back, he was mindful of her mood and protected her subconsciously. When they had almost reached the inn, his patience finally snapped. He turned around to walk with her shoulder to shoulder and said, Little Ye, it doesnt matter if you dont like me, but I hope we can be friends as usual and strengthen the camel team together. Please dont avoid me because of this. Sure, she replied without hesitation. Then, she added, But I hope you wont mention this anymore, or we will feel embarrassed again. Only that way can I forget all this and still consider you as my friend. Tarico finally sighed with relief. I can only promise that I wont mention this again, but I wont stop liking you. Now that youve said you dont like me, we can get along as before. If you change your mind one day, please let me know. Ill be always waiting for you! Ye Xiaoxian looked bashful and gave him a faint smile. Tarico was merely in his 20s. A man of his age was likely to break such a promise. Back to the inn, she saw Xiao Baozhu doing ounts on the bed. Since Xiao Baozhu knew how to add up, she was the one to hold the ount book. It would be handed over to Squire Liu to check after they went back. With curiosity, she asked Ye Xiaoxian, How was it? What did he say? Does he really like you? Ye Xiaoxian felt that Xiao Baozhu had grown up a lot and was no longer an ignorant girl, so she told her what had happened. After hearing it, Xiao Baozhu gave her a look of pity. Tarico is so pitiful and susceptible. Even though you rejected him, he still doesnt give up. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Dont worry. He will give up. No one can wait for someone else forever. Infatuated men only exist in the stories. A sudden mood of mncholy descended on Xiao Baozhu. Her previous life had been miserable because of such romantic stories. Perhaps Ye Xiaoxian was right all these stories were deceptive. But somehow, she was envious of Ye Xiaoxian. Sister Ye, I really envy you. You have admirers and they are all particrly good and responsible men. Ye Xiaoxian took off her coat,y down on the bed and stroked Xiao Baozhus hair. Maybe Im lucky. But youre also a good woman, so I believe you can attract a good man. Trust me. One day, you will meet an excellent man who loves you. Xiao Baozhu smiled and sighed. Lets stop here and sleep. We have to discuss the price of beef jerky with Mr. Cai tomorrow. ... After loading the goods in Beihui city, they returned the same way. But when they came to the edge of the desert, they all became hesitant. Could they really cross the desert without Ji? After a short while, Tarico, who led the way, turned around and shouted, Follow me! I can take you home! ... The journey back was unexpectedly smooth. Since the price of beef jerky had increased, their ies were also higher than before. Ye Xiaoxian nned to collect fresh beef after getting back. Then, she would hire some locals to make beef jerky of her own brand. Mr. Cai had told her, if she could strengthen her brand, he would help her raise the price even more. Since she hadnt found any qualified weavers, the cotton was still sold wholesale to Mr. Cai as semi-finished products. The whole way back, Tarico kept his promise and didnt mention his affection for her anymore. Ye Xiaoxian kept some distance from him on purpose. Noticing this, he also gave her enough space. When he allocated water to her, he didnt stay longer with her likest time. ... Li Chengru came to visit the tribe in the summer. Some time ago, he had gone back to the capital again to report his work in Baoning city. The emperor, Li Chengkun, had then given him a position in Baoning city lest he make any trouble in the capital. Li Chengkun had sent spies to investigate Baoning city. Li Chengyi was devoted to improving the locals living standards and economic development. But this was a hard project, especially when transportation was inconvenient and most people were poor. Without enough money, he couldnt maintain a strong army. After going there, Qian Qis troops had beenrgely demobilized and didnt pose any threat to Li Chengkuns authority. Now, Li Chengkun put his mind to handling the ministers who had opposed him before to sit tight on his throne. ... Li Chengru came to the tribe for inspections and also to visit his one-time fellow sufferers. He had also been concerned about Ye Xiaoxian. When he arrived, the camel team had just arrived back. He also met Squire Liu who had happened to go out to purchase materials. Squire Liu told him how everything had been recently. Li Chengru had thought they would get injured in the desert or lose one or two camels. But to his surprise, they were all safe and not a single camel had been lost. As he felt relieved, he believed they could do a lot of good business. The summer in the tribe was pleasant with cool mountain breezes and rivers flowing with molten ice and snow. There was greenery everywhere in this fairy-talendscape. It was in such scenery that Li Chengru found Ye Xiaoxian. She was working with a local butcher. The butcher cut the beef and she seasoned it. Near them were a few wooden racks covered with hanging seasoned beef. Usually, autumn was the best season to dry jerky. But it was arid with strong ultraviolet light here in all seasons, so they could also dry the meat in the summer. As the wind blew, the strips of beef swayed irregrly. Seeing Li Chengru, Ye Xiaoxian greeted him with a smile. Hey, Your Highness, are you here for inspections? He dismounted the horse and crossed his arms. All the people bow and kowtow to me wherever I go. Only you dont treat me as a king. She waved her hands that were covered in seasoning. Its not convenient for me. Please forgive me, Your Highness. I cant reason with you peasants. He should have felt disgusted at the sight of such hands. But their owner was Ye Xiaoxian who had the vigor of life that hecked. Is there any pre-prepared beef? he asked. She pointed at the yurt. Right inside there. Just help yourself. He then walked inside to grab a handful of beef jerky and gave some to Fengsheng. He ate as he went out and said, I met Squire Liu at the base of the mountain. He said youre doing well with the transportation team and developing your own brand of beef jerky. Ye Xiaoxian said, Yes. After this, we will make dairy products, dried fruit and so on. Since this ce is rich in cotton, I also want to hire people to weave, but I havent found any skillful ones. If only we could make the cotton into beautiful cloth before selling it! Li Chengru didnt answer, seemingly in deep thought. What are you thinking about? She was curious. He asked, How many cows do you ughter a day? One. Can you manage it? Can other people do this? Sure. I hold the form in my head. I can make the seasoning by myself and teach a few people how to make the beef. What about the dried fruit? Its the same. So the only problem is weaving? You cant make the cotton into pretty cloth? he asked. She nodded, not knowing what was on his mind. He took arge bite of the beef and said, I have a bold idea. Oh? She looked at him with interest. What is it? He smiled. I want you to follow me to meet my sixth brother! ... It was Ye Xiaoxians second time visiting Baoning city. It was much bigger and more prosperous than before. The pce had also been expanded, though it maintained its low-key style. Li Chengyi was as gentle as before. With many things to worry about, he looked somewhat tired and had obvious smile lines on his face. This time, he exempted Ye Xiaoxian from kneeling. He entertained her with tea and snacks, and even called his wife out. Ye Xiaoxian had thought the ancient concubines were all good-looking, but Li Chengyis wife had a in face. However, she excelled in her grace and amiability. The conversation started with Xiao Baofengs studies. Your brother is indeed a talent in academia. He is not only gifted but also diligent. Several days ago, I met him and tested him. Then, I found that he could recite the Five ssics (five pre-Qin Chinese books that form part of the traditional Confucian canon). More importantly, he has his own way of thinking. As I see, he can be a cultivated talent within two years. Your Highness, you give him too much praise. Its thanks to the teacher, Ye Xiaoxian said politely. She had been cautious since entering the pce. After all, she couldnt treat the Sixth King with the same attitude as she did with Li Chengru. Li Chengyiughed and then talked about her business. Chengru told me that your camel team is a great sess. Its not easy to carry so many goods across the desert. Youve done such a good job! She was not used to such apliment. Has he won his followers loyalty through such generous praising? Chapter 247 - Is This Your New Way of Eating?

Chapter 247. Is This Your New Way of Eating?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio On such an asion, one was usually required to give a response, so Ye Xiaoxian replied humbly, Im ttered. Its my good fortune that has protected me from being swallowed by the sand. To continue praising her, Li Chengyi turned around and asked his wife, What do you think of Mrs. Ye? The Sixth Imperial Concubine praised her with a smile. Mrs. Ye is modest, capable and also gracious. Although she doesnt know martial arts, she has the bearing of a heroine. Ye Xiaoxian was speechless. Were they taking turns topliment her? They werepatible as a couple, especially when they praised others without blushing. Ye Xiaoxian could only express her thanks again. Growing impatient, Li Chengru urged, Brother, I think thats enough praise. Doesnt she know how good she is? She will have her nose in the air if you go on like this. Ye Xiaoxian cast a nce at him. Who didnt like praise? Although she wasnt used to it, she would be if she heard more. Li Chengyiughed. All right. Ill stay on point. Then, he looked at Ye Xiaoxian. Mrs. Ye, Ive been in Baoning city many years, devoting myself to boosting the economy here. I want to make everyone rich or at least satisfy their needs for food and clothing. Although Ive achieved some results, Im far from reaching my goal. After careful consideration, I find that to increase the purchasing power we must trade with the Central ins. But the difficulty with transportation has been troubling me. However, you managed to run a camel team and even developed your own brand of beef jerky, so I think perhaps you can help me solve the problem. Ye Xiaoxian was stunned. She did what she did just to earn money, and never thought in such a big way. Born in the modern era, she knew the economy was the lifeblood of a ce. To develop the economy, especially in agriculture, they must sell the local products further afield. She asked, Your Highness, do you want me to help you transport the local produce? Yes, thats what I mean, the Sixth King replied. Well... then we need more camels. The farmers also have to expand their scope of farming. For example, if we want to sell more beef jerky, the farmers need to raise more cattle. We can purchase their beef, but that requires a lot of capital and manpower. Li Chengyi said, I see. I can give you money to raise more camels. Manpower is also not a problem. I will send people to assist you and you may hire some locals to help you with your work. Even Chengru can be your assistant. Ye Xiaoxian smiled wryly. She suddenly felt her burden bing heavier. Li Chengyi went on, Weaving is also not difficult. I will ask my people to hire some weavers from the Central ins and my wife will open a fabric factory. So you can transport the delicate fabric out from here. Ye Xiaoxian had a look at the Sixth Imperial Concubine who nodded with a smile. Unlike the other imperial concubines, this woman had done many practical things here. She had the ability to run a fabric factory well. Then, Li Chengyi talked with Ye Xiaoxian about some details. Finally, he said, If you make it, I will give you and your family considerable rewards. If you fail, I wont me you. But I believe you can do it well! Ye Xiaoxian was moved at that moment. It was because of his trust. She was not a beginner and knew she was required to work very hard when a leader said so. But such an opportunity was pretty rare in her life. She had beenining about her identity as a peasants daughter or an insignificant businesswoman. Now, here was a good chance to do something for people using her skills. Therefore, she agreed without hesitation and said she needed further discussion with herpanions about the specific n. ... When they finished talking, it had be dark outside, so she stayed in the town that night. Li Chengyi even treated her to dinner and asked Xiao Baofeng over. They didnt eat around a table likemoners. Instead, the Sixth King and his wife sat in the upper seats with the others below them. Every two people shared a small square table and knelt on cushions while eating. It was just how TV dramas showed it. Ye Xiaoxian wasnt used to such a posture. But Xiao Baofeng had clearly grown ustomed to it. He behaved decently just like a cultivated boy of a big family in a TV series. It might be because of living far from home or studying too hard that he looked thinner than before. Without thinking, Ye Xiaoxian put some meat and vegetables into his bowl. But he looked a little awkward and whispered, Sister Ye, we dont feed each other in the pce. She said in a low voice, Im not a member here. Then, she continued putting meat into his bowl. The Sixth Imperial Concubine was understanding and knew themoners ways of showing care. She said with a smile, Mrs. Ye, Baofeng, dont stand on ceremony. Just consider this your home. Its rare for you toe here. I hope you can enjoy the meal. Ye Xiaoxian expressed her gratitude immediately. The Sixth Imperial Concubine asked, How do you like the food? Chengru said youre good at cooking and your dishes taste better than those in the pce. Ye Xiaoxian replied modestly, The Seventh King has just eaten too many delicacies in the pce and feels nostalgic about homely food. Li Chengyiughed. Oh? Thats impossible. My brother is very picky. Even if its homely food, he is also fastidious. Mrs. Ye, if youre free next time, please let me taste the dishes you cook. Okay. If theres a chance, Ill try my best to live up to your expectations. ... That night, Ye Xiaoxian had an inn near the pce arranged for her to stay in. It was Li Chengru who sent her back. As soon as they left the pce, he dragged her sleeve and said, Follow me. Ill take you somewhere. Such a motion was usually made to a familiar friend., but they were at the pce gates. Even if they were not inside it, Ye Xiaoxian thought they should avoid gossip. Therefore, she waved off his hand tactfully. He didnt show any embarrassment, so he must not have touched her intentionally. Where are we going? she asked. A ce to eat. Eat? She was puzzled. He teased her, I know you didnt have enough just now, right? How could she have enough on such an asion? It was purely a ce for socializing. ... Li Chengru took her to a noodle restaurant. Although it looked unremarkable, it was packed with customers. He said, This ce was discovered by Fengsheng. Ive visited all the restaurants in the city and this one is the best. Its noodles are chewy. Come in and have a try. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Youre so picky. There are so many restaurants and you like only this one. Whats wrong with being picky? If I ate just anything, Id be no better than a pig. All right, she gave up arguing with him. After entering the restaurant, she ordered a bowl of beef ramen. She believed in Li Chengrus taste and found the noodles were indeed delicious after trying a bite. The slices of braised sauced beef were floating on the surface and the soup was exactly that used to braise the beef. The appetizing addition of scallion, garlic and peppercorns further enriched the vor. Attracted by the smell, she immediately chomped her way through the noodles. How do you like them? I told you, the noodles here are very delicious. Li Chengru was also enjoying his noodles. Perhaps it was because he had stayed long here, he was much more down-to-earth than before. When eating the noodles, he didnt mind his image and gulped just like her. After finishing the noodles, Ye Xiaoxian lifted the bowl and drank the soup with satisfaction. Even Li Chengru exaggerated his enjoyment. He not only swigged down the soup but also let out a cry of joy. This amused her into chuckling. Is this your new way of eating? Its none of your concern, he said. A king cant make a sound while eating, can he? Youre in no way like a king now. I do this in front of only you. Not even in front of Fengsheng, Li Chengru thought. But then he was surprised. Why did he feel so rxed with her? Was it because she was easily bullied? Or was it because he was familiar with her? When he was little, he always felt nervous in front of his parents and didnt dare to eat much at mealtimes. Only with his fourth brother could he be naughty like a real child. Forget it. Perhaps this is amon rule of socializing. Now that every person is different, ways of rting naturally vary. After filling their stomachs, Li Chengru walked her to the inn and asked two men to protect her. Tomorrow, he would send her back to the tribe. ... On arriving back at the tribe, Ye Xiaoxian gathered the Xiaos, the Lius and Tarico in a yurt. Li Chengru and Fengsheng also joined them. Li Chengru came mainly to see what difficulties they had and what he could do to help them and also to back Ye Xiaoxian up. But obviously, Ye Xiaoxian didnt need his support. Everyone was obedient to her. She held a meeting and told them what the Sixth King had said. After that, she concluded, The Sixth King and the Seventh King will sponsor the camels. Were still responsible for transportation. From today on, we need to purchase and process beef, wool and dairy products. The Sixth Imperial Concubine will do the weaving. Now I want to ask you do you have the confidence to do everything well? Squire Liu pped the table. Now that the Sixth King needs our help, we must try out best to do it well, even at the cost of our lives! The others echoed their agreement. But Xiao Tieshu whispered to Xiao Tongshu, If we fail, we might all be killed. Scared, Xiao Tongshu expressed his determination to fulfill the task immediately. Chapter 248 - Accomplices Chapter 248. Aplices The meetingsted for over two hours. With the Seventh King present, all the people were earnest about the task assigned by the Sixth King. Li Chengru also promised that they could do it boldly because they didnt need to be responsible for the result. Even if they failed, it would be the Sixth King who bore the loss. Then, they decided detailed arrangements and division ofbor, including who purchased cattle, who cheese, and who cotton. Tarico was in charge of the affairs of the Tianshan tribe, but he couldnt manage it alone and needed to hire some people. Therefore, he suggested inviting Dillys family to join them. The officials who hade with Li Chengru would gather the refugees in this tribe and ask them to help Ye Xiaoxian to dry beef, pick cotton and so forth. These refugees would be paid sries rather than getting only two naans a day by herding. Wong Mudan and some other women were still responsible for logistics. The Sixth King would provide food for them to cook in the early stages. If they needed help, they could also hire some refugees. After the discussion, everyone knew their respective responsibilities. Then, they began to busy themselves with their jobs. In Mahals house. Dati had been worried for days because Ji hadnt returned with the camel team and nobody had told her why. No one cared about this widower or bothered to report anything about him to Mahal. Even so, Mahal and Dati couldnt take the initiative to ask Ye Xiaoxian where Ji had gone. Helpless, Dati was overwhelmed by anxiety. One day, she said to Mahal, Ji has disappeared for half a month. Shall we send somebody to ask about it? Mahal was somewhat angry about her thoughtlessness. No! What if Ji was killed when he tried to murder them? If we ask them about him, they will suspect us of being his aplices! But youre the tribal leader. You have the responsibility to care about your people. Mahal didnt care about whether Ji was alive or not. Im not going to ask. Or, at least, I should wait a while first. Soon, Dati and Guri found that Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were busy again. The tribe also became lively. First, the officials asked Mahal to gather all the refugees and told them they could work for Ye Xiaoxian from then on. Then, Tarico advertised job openings among the tribe and finally hired Dilly and her family, several butchers and some camel drivers. Mahal asked an official, Sir, what is going on in our tribe? Are you supporting the Xiaos and the Lius business? The official said, Yes, but to be exact, they are working for the Sixth King now. Youre the leader here. If they need your help, please do your best to assist them. Ah? Why dont I know about that? Mahal was surprised. How could he know nothing about something which even Tarico knew? At the same time, he believed those people could earn a lot of money by working for the Sixth King. Why was it not him doing this enviable job? The official said, The Seventh King is responsible for this. I also dont know why youve not been informed. Perhaps he will soon tell you. Now that youre the tribal leader, he will need your help. Upset and stubborn, Mahal secretly pressed a gigot into the officials hand. Sir, I feel that the Seventh King doesnt like me, but I cant figure out why. Is it because I didnt treat the Xiaos and the Lius well at first? I corrected my mistake afterward. Sir, could you tell the Seventh King that Im experienced and capable in the tribe and will help him a lot? The official didnt want to take the gigot. But Mahal insisted, so the official could only agree to speak for him if there was any chance. One day, Mahal happened to meet Tarico outside. On seeing Tarico, he gnashed his teeth with jealousy. Tarico had be a sess in the tribe. Many locals scrambled for the jobs he posted and even fawned over him. But Tarico insisted on his principles and just asked them to raise more cattle, milk more goats and pick more cotton. Some people believed his words and actually bought more calves. Hey, Tarico! Although Mahal hated Tarico, he had to approach this man for some reason today. Although Tarico was busy, he stopped and asked, Yes? Looking at Taricos face, Mahal felt even more envious. Since Tarico began cooperating with Ye Xiaoxian, he had be more confident and even his eyes appeared more firm. In the past, he had been a flippant man, goofing off by fishing, herding and singing folk songs. Well, its nothing particr. Do you remember Ji? He went across the desert with you, didnt he? But yesterday, when I walked past his house, his neighbor told me he hadnt been back for a long time. Do you know where he is now? Oh, hes enjoying his life in the Central ins. He said his life in the tribe was too boring. Now that hes earned some money, he just settled down in the big city. Perhaps hes now savoring fine liquor and holding a beauty in his arms. Mahal asked in disbelief, Really? Yes. You can ask the others if you dont believe me, Tarico said. Actually, he had discussed with Ye Xiaoxian in advance how to reply if someone asked about Ji, and they had worked out a solution. They could say that Ji didnt want toe back and had stayed in the Central ins. That was because Tarico thought that some people might have colluded with Ji. After all, Ji couldnt take care of so many camels alone and must seek one or more conspirators to run the business. Tarico thought they might wait and see who was the first to ask about Ji. Ji was a widower who held bad rtions with his neighbors and was always out. Who would care about where he was? The one who cared about him most must be working with him. As such, Taricos suspicion was aroused when Mahal revealed a look of doubt. But Mahals face soon became calm again. I see. Im just checking. After all, Im the leader and have a responsibility to care about my people. If you disappear one day, Ill also ask about you. Now that hes living a good life there, Im relieved. Then, he looked at Tarico again. Has the Sixth King really invested a lot of money in your business? Yes, Tarico replied as he continued with his work. Im just an assistant. Little Ye is the chief. Chapter 249 - The Woman From His Dreams

Chapter 249. The Woman From His Dreams

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Then... how do you share the money youve earned? Mahals eyes lit up. Tarico gave him a vague reply, I dont know the details. We have someone responsible for calcting our earnings. Lets just make do with it and talk about itter Mahal suddenly felt that he was a false leader. He could do nothing except for deploying manpower. When he was about to leave, he thought maliciously: Money! Money! These people are so crazy! Theyd better be careful not to store up too much material or die in the desert! In the capital. The highest-ranking eunuch minced into the pce and came up to Li Chengkun who was busy reading and checking memorials. Afraid of bothering the emperor, he stood to one side and remained silent. It had been less than a year since Li Chengkun came to the throne. He either had imperial meetings or reading memorials almost every day. He was so upied that he seldom took a walk in his back garden. Being an emperor, he had an important task; to spread his genes widely. But he didnt take it seriously. To get this supreme position, he and his brothers had fought against each other furiously. By then, many ministers had got involved and many had died in the farce. Li Chengkun didnt want such a bloody tragedy to be repeated among his sons. He had had three sons, among whom the eldest would seed him if everything went smoothly. With a nce at the eunuchs anxiously puckered face, Li Chengkun stopped writing and asked, Speak if you have anything to tell me! The eunuch said in a low voice, Your Majesty, a eunuch from the rear pce reported that... Reported what? Speak up! Li Chengkun became impatient. He said... that the state preceptor entered the empress dowagers bedroom again. The eunuch was abashed. He felt that this was too shameful to be spoken out. Li Chengkun paused for a second and then just nodded. I see. Do I need to write down the times? Yes! The eunuch then left the pce, took out a notebook and made a stroke on a page. In the empress dowagers bedroom at the rear of the pce. On a canopy bed filled with warm breath, two figures were entangled with each other. Youvee here three times this month. The others may gossip about us, the empress dowager said shyly. Is it too much? Do you want me to onlye here every six months? Im afraid that you cant hold yourself for that long. The state preceptor stroked her face which was slightly blushing. She pushed away his hand softly and pretended to be angry. Dont you dare! It was you whoined. In such a boring pce, youll be very lonely without me. The empress dowager revealed a serious look. Im afraid that the emperor might be suspicious of us. Besides, too many people out there are watching our behavior, but youre so reckless every time youe here. The ministers will know about this sooner orter. Dont worry. The emperor indeed has a suspicious nature. But it was I who helped him to get his position, so he will turn a blind eye to whatever I do. Otherwise, he would have said it explicitly to me. Besides, the ministers can do nothing more than report this to the emperor. But who has the courage to say it in the imperial court? As I see it, I deserve to be envied. Youre still so beautiful and Im still vigorous. Were a perfect match for each other! Youre not young anymore. Why dont you feel ashamed to say that? Not young anymore? You mean Im old? All right, let me show you how energetic I am! You... Ah, be gentler with me... Then tell me C am I young and strong or not? The state preceptor thought no one would condemn him for his misdemeanor. But in the imperial meeting the next day, the prime minister stood out to report what he was up to. He looked as upright as before. Bluntly, he said, Your Majesty, it has been recently heard that a minister enters the rear of the pce frequently. Although the reason is unknown, I guess hes dating an imperial concubine. Please look into it. The other officials had also heard about this, but they hadnt expected the prime minister to be so outspoken. But Li Chengkun appeared as if it was his first time hearing about this. How do you know? Naturally, the prime minister couldnt divulge the informants name. I heard from someone. The affairs in the rear pce shouldnt be a topic to be gossiped about. If this man has any evil intention, he may tarnish the reputation of the royal family. So please get to know his motive first. If he has an ulterior motive, please be careful not to be used. The prime minister was rendered wordless. Li Chengkun went on, Next issue. Its now midsummer and floods are frequent in the south. Lets focus our discussion on this problem. As such, the prime ministers words were ignored again. He let out a deep sigh. Near Longmen Inn in the desert. There was a sand dune not far away from the inn. For some geographic reason, it had be morepacted and taller than years ago. Sitting on the dune, one could see much farther. But in the distance was still desert. Every morning, Xiao Baoshan sat on top of the dune for half an hour and gazed at the sand in the distance. Two questions had been troubling him: Who was he? Where was he from? He had spent half a year trying in vain to find the answers. His memory seemed to have been cut by someone. He could merely remember the part after he came to the inn, while everything before that was a total nk in his mind. Who am I? Where am I from? The only clue to his past was a vague female figure in his dreams. While he was lost in thought, Jin Xiaoyu leaped up to the roof of the inn and gazed at him affectionately. After feeding the horses, Idiot looked up at her and asked aloud, Miss Jin, why are you looking at Dumb again? When will you get bored with this? She held her chin with one hand and simpered. Ill never get bored of him. Oh, you dont understand. Idiot shook his head. You always say that were thick. As far as I can see, youre facing the same problem now. You should be called Stupid from now on. Piss off, she said. Her voice was so soft that it didnt sound like a scolding at all. Idiot left and continued with his work. As the sun gradually rose just above the horizon, Xiao Baoshan stood up and went back to the inn. Jin Xiaoyu also jumped off the roof and waited for him at the door. Dumb, did you remember anything today? No. They had repeated such conversations many times. She smiled. If so, just stay and work here. Okay! Xiao Baoshan replied briefly and seriously. She murmured behind him, Youre so dumb! Xiao Baoshan had been here for over half a year, but he still didnt blend in with the crowd. He was as quiet as ever, eating and working without sry. His only robe was bought by Jin Xiaoyu. She said it was a gift for him as her employee. The more indifferent he was, the more infatuated she became with him. She couldnt hide her affection for him at all. At dinner time. Silly had been responsible for sending meals to Jin Xiaoyu. But since a month ago, Xiao Baoshan had taken his ce doing this task. Xiao Baoshan went upstairs with rice and dishes and knocked on Jin Xiaoyus bedroom door. She walked out sleepily as if she had just woken up. Her dress tilted to one side, revealing her tender shoulder. Her hair cascaded down, setting off her great femininity. She leaned against the door and looked at him with her captivating eyes. Hi, Dumb. Miss Jin, heres your dinner, he said. Please help me bring it in. I just woke up and dont have any strength. But as he walked in, she banged the door shut immediately. He paused in surprise. When he turned around, he found her dress had slipped to her waist, exposing her belly wrap. She screamed as if she just noticed that. Ah, when did my clothes slip down? Im so careless. Miss Jin, please enjoy your meal, he said. When he was about to go out, Jin Xiaoyu stopped him again. Dumb, not so fast. Sit down. I have something to ask you. But he didnt look at her or sit down. He just stood there, behaving like a gentleman. With a sigh, Jin Xiaoyu pulled her sleeves to her shoulders again before walking up to him. Are you satisfied now? Seeing that she had dressed decently, he finally looked up at her face. Come on, sit down. I have something to ask you! Reluctant as he was, he obeyed. Slowly, she enjoyed her meal. Seeing some croquettes, she took one with chopsticks and lifted it to his mouth. Dumb, try one. What do you want to tell me? Eat first. She kept teasing him. Ive had diner. Im not hungry. She stuck her tongue out. Boring. She could only eat alone. She held the croquette in her mouth, pushed it to her lips with her tongue, and then suck it back into her mouth again. That was another hint. Xiao Baoshan looked away at once. With a snort, she chewed the croquette and swallowed it. How boring this man was! But strangely, she loved his dullness. I had a terrible dream just now. In the dream, I met seven wolves in the desert but I couldnt rival them alone. I was so scared that I woke up with a cold sweat, she said pitifully. He asked, This is what you wanted to tell me? I just want to chat with you. Its boring to eat alone. You can take the bowl and tes downstairs after I finish, she said. Now that it was thendys order, Xiao Baoshan could only sit there obediently. Dumb, have you ever had a special dream? she asked. He suddenly thought of the woman in his dreams. Chapter 250 - Am I Really a Traitor?

Chapter 250. Am I Really a Traitor?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan didnt know who he was, but there were some people he often dreamed about. Although their faces were vague, they gave him a strong feeling of familiarity. Some fought with him on the battlefield. But they died, and only he survived. Some enjoyed a meal with him in a low house, where the light was so dim that he couldnt see the dishes clearly. Among them were some who called him brother or son. That woman appeared most frequently. He rode with her on the horseback, whispered with her on the roof and usually gazed at her back in a daze. But he couldnt see her face. Noticing him in a trance, Jin Xiaoyu waved her hand in front of him. Dumb, what are you thinking about? Xiao Baoshan came to his senses and said, A woman often appears in my dreams. She blinked. A woman? Is it me? No. If it were you, why couldnt I see your face in my dreams? He felt that this woman really existed and he had known her before losing his memory. Jin Xiaoyu asked, What do you often do with her in your dreams? He didnt answer. It must be something intimate, right? she asked as she blinked naughtily. He was still silent. Silence means admission, she said with a chuckle. She went on, That woman doesnt necessarily exist. You dream about her just because youre too lonely and need someones to be with. Its said that, when single men lie on beds at night, they usually use their hands to... Xiao Baoshan stared seriously at her, so she could only stop. Miss Jin, please enjoy your meal. Call me after you finish it. Ill help you take the bowl and tes downstairs. After saying that, he was ready to leave. Jin Xiaoyu shouted after him, Dumb, Im sure that woman only exists in your dreams or fantasies. Perhaps thats me. Im the woman you want! He paused, but soon strode out of her room. At dusk, five men walked into the inn. With serious faces, they observed the inn carefully. Finding nothing unusual, they finally sat down around a table. When Idiot filled their cups with tea, they even took out a silver needle to test for poison before drinking. Do you want a ce to stay? Idiot asked. One of them replied, No, well leave after eating. Okay. What would you like to eat? ... At that moment, Xiao Baoshan was busy serving other customers. One of the five men noticed him with a look of surprise. He winked at hispanions and pointed at Xiao Baoshan secretly. Then, the others were also stupefied. A man pulled at Idiots sleeve and pointed at Xiao Baoshan. Who is he? Whats his name? Idiot looked at Xiao Baoshan, the man he didnt consider as a friend. He has no name. Hes just an employee here. An employee? How long has he been here? the man asked. Its been very long, but I dont remember when exactly he arrived. Its so strange. Youre not women. Why are you inquiring about him? Idiot asked. Xiao Baoshan had a handsome face and an outstanding physique, so women always asked about him secretly. But Idiot had never expected men to be also interested in that boring man. As usual, Idiot asked Xiao Baoshan over. Dumb,e over here and serve these customers. Without asking, Xiao baoshan did as Idiot told him. He walked over with a teapot but found their cups were full. What would you like to eat? It was as if he didnt know them at all. They were exceptionally puzzled. He asked, Is there anything else that I can help you with? No, we just want to order some dishes, one of them said. Then, they ordered all the signature dishes of the inn. After taking notes, Xiao Baoshan went to the kitchen to get the dishes. After he left, the five people began discussing something. Is he Xiao Baoshan? Does he just look like Xiao Baoshan? But he doesnt know us. Hes not familiar with us, so its reasonable to assume that he doesnt recognize us. Im more curious about why hes here. Didnt he serve under the Sixth King after being a general? Finally, one of them proposed, We can test him when hees here. When Xiao Baoshan served a dish, a man suddenly said, Xiao Baoshan! But Xiao Baoshan gave no response. He merely said, This is fried beef with celery. Please enjoy. The other dishes were also put onto the table one after another. When Xiao baoshan brought thest of the dishes to them, a man stuck out a leg to trip him. Caught totally off-guard, Xiao Baoshan stumbled. When he was about to fall, Jin Xiaoyu suddenly appeared and grabbed his waist. Then, she scolded the five men. We take you as our customers and serve you with great sincerity. We neither hurt you or cheated you! Why are you bullying my employee? The five men looked very embarrassed. The one who had tripped Xiao Baoshan apologized, Im sorry. I didnt mean to hurt you. Jin Xiaoyu red at them and said fiercely, Then please be careful! I wont allow anyone to bully my staff! After saying that, she took Xiao Baoshans arm. Are you all right? Dont bother with that crowd! Xiao Baoshan was silent and calm. After the meal, the five men were ready to continue their journey. But each of them looked somewhat drunk. They chatted as they walked to the stable. So that man isnt Xiao Baoshan. I thought he was. They look so much alike. But this one is as clumsy as a log and doesnt know martial arts. Are you sure he doesnt know martial arts? Yes. If he knew, he wouldnt have been caught so off-guard when I tripped him. When they pulled their horses out, they suddenly heard a sweet voice, Who is Xiao Baoshan? They turned around and saw Jin Xiaoyu. A drunk man replied, Xiao Baoshan? Hes a traitor, a treacherous man, a vain, disloyal asshole! Jin Xiaoyu cursed, Piss off! The men mounted their horses and galloped away. She remained standing there on the spot. After a while, Xiao Baoshan walked out from the darkness. She looked over her shoulder and gazed at him with sympathy. I put slight poison in their dishes, which is why they seemed drunk. You heard what they said. You might be Xiao Baoshan, but... A traitor? A treacherous man? A vain, disloyal asshole? Such words filled Xiao Baoshans mind. Was he such a person? But how could that be? He valued lives so much. Sinceing here, he had stopped her from killing people several times. Although she thought those she killed were all evil men, Xiao Baoshan insisted that all lives were equal and they didnt have the right to end anyones life. He had recognized Jin Xiaoyus affection for him, but he was not sure of his own feelings, so he had been indifferent to her and unwilling to hurt her hers. Would such a person be vain? Jin Xiaoyu took out a token and handed it to Xiao Baoshan. I stole it from those people. It may be the identity of one of them. Do you want to follow them and investigate it? He looked down at the token that read: Imperial Spy 120. So, they were spies from the pce. If he really was this Xiao Baoshan, he should have lived in the capital for a time. But what he usually dreamed about was a little vige. He handed the token back to Jin Xiaoyu. Seeing a horse in the stable, he pulled it out immediately. She opened her mouth and wanted to say that this was a customers horse and he couldnt ride it. But he looked so sad that she gave up stopping him. Outside the stable, he mounted the horse. Strangely, he hadnt ridden a horse here and didnt have such a memory, but his movements were very skillful as if he had been born as a rider. He galloped off across the desert into the distance. Worried about him, Jin Xiaoyu also mounted a horse and followed him. He rode fast to the foot of a mountain where he had once fainted, and he held the reins. Then, he looked up at the mountain, lost in deep thought. Those people said he was a traitor, so had hee here to avoid being caught or killed? They said he was treacherous and disloyal, so was he the same to his family? If he really was such a person, his family wouldnt bother to look for him. Indeed, during this period, no one hade here to look for him. Who would want a traitor to be alive in the family? For the first time that he could remember, he felt very anxious, sad and truly helpless. Late that night, Xiao Baoshan went back to the inn and drank alcohol for the first time. Unavoidably, he got trashed. In a daze, he felt someone enter his room. It was a woman. He couldnt tell whether this was a dream or reality. Who are you? he asked. The woman sat down in front of him and stroked his face. She said softly, Me? Im whoever you want me to be. He tried to open his eyes wide, but his vision was still blurred. The face in front of him was sometimes vague and sometimes clear. The world shifted constantly between the dream and the reality. He thought of what Jin Xiaoyu had said: Perhaps thats me. Im the woman you want! Just then, Jin Xiaoyu moved her lips. Im the woman in your dreams. After saying this, she pushed him down on the bed and leaned over him. When Xiao Baoshan woke up the next morning, he found Jin Xiaoyu sleeping next to him. Both of them were naked. Although he felt a terrible headache, he could remember what had happened the previous night. However, he didnt feel happy at all. Instead, he had a sense of emptiness and despair and wanted to drink a jar of alcohol or perhaps two. Just then, Jin Xiaoyu also woke up. Seeing his opened eyes, she climbed on his body and threw her arms around him, Dumb, I dont care who you are. Youve done it with me, so youre my man from now on. You must stay by my side and be my man! Only after a while did he look at her and say, Perhaps Im not a good man. Bullshit. I dont care what others say about you or what kind of person you used to be. Anyway, youre the man I love. Xiao Baoshan felt somewhat touched, but he didnt move. After a moment, he nodded. Ill be responsible for you. Jin Xiaoyu snorted, Dont say it in such a reluctant tone. Im not threatening you with a knife. Dumb, do you like me? Xiao Baoshan didnt reply. Did he like her? He didnt know the answer. But a minuteter, Jin Xiaoyu pushed her face towards him again and hugged him. Forget it. If you really want to be responsible for me, then marry me, will you? Im 25, not young anymore. I also want to know the feeling of having a husband and my own children. Xiao Baoshan remained silent at first. Only after a long while did he say, As you wish. He might have to stay here for the rest of his life... In the Tianshan tribe. Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions had increased the number of the camels to over 40 and hired enough people. It was like they had founded a big workshop with clear division of work. As the guider of the camel team, Tarico had selected more than 20 men to follow him. Ye Xiaoxian didnt follow the camel team anymore. She stayed in the tribe to make beef jerky and dried fruit and to manage the entire producing process. Squire Liu was responsible for purchasing. The area around the Xiaos and the Lius became bustling with life. The refugees all moved there and helped Ye Xiaoxian do all kinds of work each day. They were happy and satisfied without any worries about being exploited. Besides, they didnt need to eat naans all the time because they were provided with rich meals and sometimes fruit. Therefore, they worked harder and harder and some even rejected taking sries. But Ye Xiaoxian told them that, apart from amodation, they would also obtain some money, though it was just a small sum in the early stage. When their workshop became more mature, they could then get sries on a regr basis. Knowing such benefits, some poor locals also wanted to work here. They were poor not because ofziness but because of theck of money to raise goats or cattle. The crops they grew were not particrly needed by the market and could only be used to satisfy their own survival needs. As such, they could earn little money. Attracted by the sries, they asked Ye Xiaoxian whether they could work for her. She certainly agreed. After all, there were no machines in the workshop and every step had to be done manually. For example, to make dried fruit they had to peel, cut, and then pickle the fruit. More manpower was needed when there was a bigger order. Therefore, some locals also moved their yurts there. Gradually, the area appeared just like a new tribe. As the situation slowly grew out of control, Mahal, Dati and Guri became as anxious as ants on a hot pan. Chapter 251 - Poison.

Chapter 251. Poison.

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Guri was furious. Tarico was getting busier. When she met him one day, he didnt even bother to say hello to her. Among the people he hired, there were some women. The girl living nearby also worked for him and could earn one or two taels every month. With this sry, she became confident and proud and bought herself a new dress. One day, she even pretended not to see Guri when she said hello to her. Guri went back home in a huff andined to her parents. Those outsiders think of themselves as the hosts of thisnd. Dad, youre the tribal leader, the richest man in the tribe, but why do we get so little attention? Since those people came, our situation has been getting worse and worse. Dad, you must figure out a way to stop them from going on like this. Dati echoed, Yes! Everything has changed overnight. Dilly was submissive before, but now she messes around with those guys and they also listen to her as if she were the tribal leaders wife. Mahal said angrily, Do you think I dont want to drive them away? But they are backed by the Seventh King. Ive been scolded twice for not treating them well. If I make any mistake again, I may be dismissed! Then he added, But dont worry. Ive asked an official to speak for me in front of the Seventh King, so I will also join this project in a while. If I participate, I will certainly get a big share. Guri said fiercely, If so, I also want to have a high position in it. I cant allow them to outshine us so easily! Dati also said, As for me, Id like to take all of Dillys work and have those guys obey me! ... However, no news had been heard from the official since returning. As the product lines became steady, the workshop was now on track. Seeing this, Li Chengru was relieved and went back to the town. Life there was busy and full every day. The camel team had set off twice ande back safe under Taricos guidance. The two journeys proved a great sess with greatly increased ies. Two main reasons could be concluded. First of all, the cotton, beef jerky, dried fruit, and some other crops had been improved by reprocessing; and secondly, there were many more camels than before. They had also brought a lot of porcin and silk back. In the blink of an eye, winter was just around the corner. After two more transportation trips, it was time for the herdsmen to migrate. Since camels were not used to an icy and snowy environment, they also needed to move to a warmer ce. The pace of work also slowed down. After some locals left, the refugees still helped Ye Xiaoxian make dried fruit. Tarico followed the migration group with the camels. Thanks to the climate, the grass on another pasture was still lush. Tarico and his several brothers took care of the camels together. Soon, Mahal, Dati and Guri also arrived at the new pasture. Guri was reluctant to migrate at first, but she changed her mind when she knew that Tarico would alsoe here. She even asked her father to set up the yurts near to Tarico. Having been rejected by him, she didnt like him as much as before. But she found it hard to let it go. She wanted a chance to prove that she was a good woman and that he was blind not to choose her. To get such an opportunity, she must try to approach him. Tarico didnt need to go to Beihui city now and could stay near the yurts to watch the camels. As such, he had a slow pace of life here. Every day, hey on the grass and enjoyed the sun with his legs crossed. Sometimes, he went to the riverside to catch a fish which he would grill or simmer as a meal together with two naans. Sometimes, he drank with his brothers outside the yurts. Gulping down several cups of alcohol, he began to sing folk songs, his voice echoing through the sky. Guri walked past Tarico deliberately several times, but she was always ignored. Tarico also sang duet love songs with others at times. When he started a song, there would be a woman interacting with him. One day, a middle-aged woman responded to him and they began singing together. Half a mountain away as they were, they had great fun doing this. So, Guri also followed suit and tried to interact with him one afternoon. But, after she sang, he didnt make a sound anymore, which irritated her very much. That night, she returned to the yurt andined, Tarico is a rascal! Mahal didnt know her real feelings and believed she hated Tarico just like him. So he said, Tarico has been rebellious since he was a child. He always goes against me as if I owe him something. Now with the king backing him up, he doesnt show any respect to me. Dati said, Without so many camels, they couldnt have grown their business so well. Hearing that, Mahal and Guri exchanged a look at each other immediately. Judging by their expressions, they had the same idea in their minds. Guri asked, What would happen if he had no camels? Mahals eyes lit up. Without the camels, hed be a nobody, as poor as he was before! Guri got excited. Without the camels, hell be a sinner. The Sixth King, the Seventh King and Little Ye wont trust him anymore. Dati realized something. Wh-what do you want to do? Guri turned to her mother and said, Mom, dont you want to stop them from stealing the show? Without the camels, they cant do business and thus cant steal your thunder. Dati asked in surprise, Do you want to poison their camels? But Mahal, didnt you ask an official to speak for you in front of the Seventh King so that you could be a senior member among them? Bah! Mahal said. None of the outsiders are trustworthy. I regret giving him the gigot now. Hes not on our side and wont speak for me, or he wouldnt have kept me waiting for several months and given me no message. This made sense. He went on resentfully, Now that I cant join the project, I must give them a hard time. Humph, as long as we kill the camels, they wont be able to run their transportation business anymore! Guri began to keep a close eye on Tarico. Slowly, she noticed a pattern C if Tarico sang a song in the afternoon, it meant that he was in a good mood and would drink with his brothers at night. Among his brothers, two were from the Central ins and the others were locals. Every time they drank alcohol, they would drink themselves jovially into oblivion. Guri sneaked there twice and once made a noise on purpose, but none of them noticed her. That emboldened her greatly. One day, Guri and Mahal prepared some poison which was usually used on wolves. People often took such poison with them in case of idents. Guri and Mahal mixed the poison with water, nning to sneak to where the camels were and sprinkle the liquid onto the fodder. It was very dark that night. The wind screeched in their ears as if a devil was roaring. While Guri was exceptionally bold, Mahal was somewhat nervous. So Guri said she could do it alone andforted her father, We dont need to be afraid of those people. They always drink themselves unconscious and have failed to notice me twice. Dad, wait here for my good news. So, Mahal stopped halfway and let her go alone. He watched her go forward secretly. Since it was too dark, her figure soon disappear into the distance. With his hands sped, he prayed, The god of Tianshan mountains, please bless my daughter and help herplete the task. If it goes well, I will use two goats to repay your kindness. The night was quiet except for the asional wind. After waiting for quite a while, Mahal suddenly heard Guris scream from the distance. Ah! You, you... ah... In such darkness, the panicked and miserable cry made his flesh crawl immediately. Had she encountered wolves? Mahal ran over hurriedly, but then, he heard Guris voice again. I didnt do anything. I... Whats in your hand? a man said in a broken local dialect. Mahal guessed he was not a local. This is... Its poison, right? Well... If its not, then feed it to your goats! the man then said. Guri panicked. No, I cant feed it to my goats. Then what on earth is it? If you dont tell me, Ill feed it to you! This is... poison... It-Its for wolves. For wolves? Then why did you bring it here? the man questioned her loudly. Guri fumbled helplessly for words. Knowing that the n had failed, Mahal hurried back to his yurt to avoid getting himself involved. As for what those people would do to Guri, he was powerless to care about that. Even if she told them he was her aplice, he wouldnt admit it. Guri was taken to Taricos yurt. The oilmps inside were lit up again. Sitting there, Tarico and his brothers looked at her angrily. It was Wong Wu who brought her in. He said, This woman came here twice before today. I thought she wanted to see Tarico, so I pretended not to notice her. Only now do I know she came to feel us out. She thought we were drunk and wanted to poison our camels. Ive never seen such a cruel woman! How can she have the heart to kill the camels? Wong Wu and Wong Wen had taken care of the camels for a long time and had be emotionally involved with them. Although the camels looked bulky, they were more than lovely. They worked as hard as the cattle and neverined. They ate only grass but produced fortune. Chapter 252 - Begging

Chapter 252. Begging

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Wong Wen and Wong Wu really loathed Guri. Tarico and the others also felt angry about her behavior. Although they were aware of her insolence, they hadnt expected her to do such a vicious thing. Tarico stood up and took the poison from her hand. How could you do this in front of the mountain god? Why did you do it? Guri felt like a naked clown being questioned by these people after failing in her n. It was too shameful. She had an urge to salvage her pride. Why? she sneered. Tarico, I didnt treat you this way before. I showed my affection for you in every way, but you never responded. You would rather be attracted to that southern woman than consider me. Do those outsiders really deserve your help? If you showed a little kindness to me, I would have told my father I want only you to be my husband. But youre such an asshole that you dont even give me a chance! Besides, what the zes have those outsiders done? They show off their camels and make us obey them. They have almost be the hosts here. As a member of the Tianshan tribe, dont you feel it very dangerous? Arent you afraid that they will make ournd theirs? We are herdsmen and have lived here for generations. We cant allow them to invade our home! If they want to settle down here, they must be our ves! We cant let them dominate us! Tarico fell silent. Wong Wen thought Tarico had been persuaded and hastened to retort, Tianshan is not yours. Its Daqis. Were all under the rule of Daqi. Besides, youre still the hosts here. Both the Sixth King and the Seventh King wish you to live a better life, and thats why they gave us the task. Guri gave Tarico a challenging look. Tarico, what do you think? If were still regarded as the hosts here, why cant my dad join the project? Why can you edge the tribal leader out so easily? Who will believe our kings wish us a better life? She imposed her value of tribal unity on them and represented everyone, especially the locals, as barbaric and unreasonable. So they all looked at Tarico and waited for his answer. But Tarico burst outughing. This puzzled Guri greatly. He said with a sarcastic smile, Invade? Be the hosts? Youre not eligible to say such words. If you ask those who help us, you will find out that they are the ones downtrodden by you! You take their best pastures, fattest cattle and goats, and even money if they earn any! Since your father became the leader, hes been getting richer and richer. What about us? What about them? Tarico pointed at the men beside him. They were once paupers who couldnt even afford amb. Have you ever thought of helping them? Why do they listen to the southern people? Thats because the camel team makes us locals no longer poor. Now, we have money to buy cattle and goats and can eat naans with meat. Whats more, those southern people dont guard against us like your father. Instead, they trust us and give us important work to do. Were treated equally and get rewards ording to how much we do. This is the life we want! No one wants to be your fathers ves! After he finished speaking, all the men apuded immediately. Just now, these local guys had suspected that they might have betrayed the mountain god by helping the outsiders. But hearing Taricos words, they were convinced that he was right. Since there was a camel team, their living standards had been greatly improved. They could even wear cloth shoes and socks which had been a luxury to them before. So, they supported Tarico and seriously criticized Guri for threatening them with the mountain god and poisoning the camels. Wong Wen asked Tarico, What should we do with this woman? Although shes your tribal member and we cant interfere too much, shes too detestable to be forgiven. If we hadnt noticed her evildoing tonight, the consequences would be too ghastly to contemte. Without the camels, all our efforts would be vain and we wouldnt do any business across the desert in spring. Tarico thought for a while and said, This is not a trivial matter. We certainly cant spare her easily. Lets take her to her father now and see how he will deal with this. I dont believe that he knows nothing about this. Guri shouted angrily, Tarico, Im the tribal leaders daughter! You cant do anything to me! Even if you dont care about me, you should show respect to my father! Respect can only be earned by yourselves. Do you think you deserve our respect after doing such a thing? ... Therefore, Guri was escorted by a group of men to meet Mahal. Since they made quite a noise, some people who were awake nearby went out to watch what was going on. Mahals yurt was dark, showing no light from inside. After Tarico knocked for a while, Mahal finally opened the door and pretended as if he had just woken up and knew nothing. Whats wrong? Oh, Guri, why are you with them? Why are you tied up? What have they done to you? How dare you tie my daughter up! Guri said nothing. Her father not only proved his nimbleness when escaping but also showed a gift for acting. What a sly old man! But she also understood that she couldnt tell them that her father was an aplice, or he would lose face and have difficulty in building up the prestige in the tribe. Dad... Guri said in a pitiful tone. I just yed a joke on them, but they... Tarico snorted, You wanted to poison our camels, and you say it was only a joke? She pouted her lips and retorted, Your camels are all fine. Tarico asked, So I can also poison your goats tomorrow and say its just a joke, right? No! If you poison my goats, you mustpensate me! she said imperiously. Tarico said, I see no point in further negotiation. Sir, shes your daughter and I can give her back to you now. But many of us saw her evildoing, so her crime is beyond doubt. We have no right to punish her, so well inform the Seventh King of this after we return to the tribe. Hell decide how to treat her. Mahals face turned pale with fright. If this thing reached the Seventh Kings ears, the consequences would be very serious. Tarico... what about... Mahal wanted to persuade Tarico to forgive Guri. But Tarico ignored him and said to hispanions, Lets go. Then, the men followed Tarico out right away. Those who hid nearby also had a rough idea of what had happened. Afraid of being discovered by Mahal, they sneaked away in the darkness immediately. Mahal was nervous and worried. He wanted to chase Tarico, but he was reluctant to lose face in front of so many people. So, he untied Guri first and asked her, Didnt you say they wouldnt notice you? What happened? I... Actually, they also noticed me the first two times, though they didnt say so. They... they thought I went there to see a man, but how could that be? Guri rotated her numb wrists which had been tied very tightly by that strong man. How could he be so rude to a woman? Mahal felt fortunate that he hadnt gone with her, or he would have also been caught. But he didnt express this feeling and just said, s, I didnt expect that man to be so vignt. Now that they found out what you did, they must think Im your aplice. Dati said, Youre indeed an aplice. That was quite an irrefutable fact. Dad, what should we do now? They will give me to the Seventh King next year. Guri felt a terrible headache when she thought of the straight-faced king. He smiled at nobody but the Xiaos and the Lius. Mahal thought for a moment and said, I... Ill talk to Tarico tomorrow. The weather was pleasant the next day. Mahal went to find Tarico with a pot of alcohol and a roasted leg ofmb. At that moment, Tarico was enjoying some sunbathing with a de of grass between his lips. Tarico, the weather is so good today. Why dont you go fishing? Mahal said with a smile as if he was on good terms with Tarico. But Tarico replied in an indifferent tone, I dont want to. Seeing the mutton and the alcohol pot, he realized that Mahal wanted to butter him up and beg him, so his face suddenly fell. Mahal sat next to Tarico and handed the mutton to him. Its freshly roasted. Take it and share it with your brothers. Tarico didnt take the mutton and merely asked, Do you want me to beg for your daughter in front of the Seventh King? Im sorry I cant. Those camels are my life. If someone wants to take my life, I wont spare him or her. Mahal said with embarrassment, Shes still young and thoughtless. Please forgive her this time. Young? In the Central ins, a woman at her age has been married. Tarico thought of Ye Xiaoxian who was slightly younger than Guri but far more sensible. s, its all my fault for not disciplining her well... Tarico interrupted, Then you should discipline her rather than begging me. If I forgive her this time, she may do it again. I wont take any risks with the camels. Tarico, please... do me a favor this time. Im the tribal leader. I can watch your back in the tribe. Mahal continued to beg. Tarico replied, Why did both you and your daughter remind me youre the tribal leader? Can one do evil deeds because he or she is a tribal leader? Sir, dont beg me anymore. Its useless. I must tell the Seventh King about this thing. After saying this, Tarico rose from the grass. Mahal hurried to say, Wh-what about two roastedmbs? You can share them with your brother. Or I can alsopensate you with money! Chapter 253 - I Can Marry Guri to You

Chapter 253. I Can Marry Guri to You

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Im afraid I cant take these, said Tarico in rejection. But you havent suffered any loss and Guri has also reflected on her mistake, Mahal said anxiously. If I forgive you this time, youll do something worse next time. One who makes mistakes must be punished, or our tribe will be in disorder, Tarico replied. Then, he turned around and left, giving Mahal no chance to beg anymore. Mahal stamped his foot with anger, but he couldnt stop Tarico. If the Seventh King really knew about this, he could only pass the buck to Guri alone. Or, before going back to the tribe, he might do one more evil thing C to kill Tarico, shutting him up forever! ... Tarico had a subordinate called Mcginon whose parents had died early. This man was so poor that not a single woman was willing to marry him. One day, Mahal saw him herding goats. Among less than 15 goats, there was only one that belonged to Mcginon. The sight sparked inspiration in Mahals mind. What about... Mcginons greatest virtue was his honesty, but he was also troubled by his timidness. For example, when he herded the goats, he would watch them closely in fear of losing any of them. Mahal walked over and patted him on his back. Seeing that it was the tribal leader, Mcginon immediately became nervous. Owing to his humble background, he always groveled every time he met Mahal. Mcginon, are you herding alone? Mahal asked. Mcginon nodded. Seeing a tear in Mcginons coat, Mahal asked, Why dont you mend your clothes? Mcginon replied tensely, Well... it doesnt matter. Its only one little tear. I-Im used to it. Oh no, if you wear torn clothes, others will think youre poor and women also wont like you. How are you going to marry this way? Mahal said with affected concern. Mcginon said, I see... Ill mend it after I go home. Thats too troublesome for you. Take it off. Ill ask my wife to help you mend it. How could I trouble her? I can do it by myself. Mcginon was ttered and panicking. Dont stand on ceremony. Were in the same tribe. Its normal for us to help each other. After saying that, Mahal tried to take off his coat. But Mcginon became even more nervous, holding his coat firmly. Suddenly, the finger-length tear was ripped into an arm-length one. While Mcginon stood there stunned, Mahal said, Look, if you gave the coat to me, it wouldnt be torn like this. Take off the coat now and let me take it back for my wife to mend. Mcginon could only obey. But then, Mahal added, What abouting with me? My wife sews very quickly. You can wait in the yurt and drink some milk tea. Well... While Mcginon was hesitating, Mahal grabbed his arm impatiently. Theres nothing to hesitate about. Hurry up. Then, Mcginon was dragged all the way to Mahals house. ... Dati was confused about why her husband had brought Mcginon and also a coat back to their house. Mahal threw the coat to her and said, Pour a cup of milk tea for Mcginon and help him mend this coat. Puzzled as Dati was, she did so obediently. Then, Mahal began chatting with Mcginon. Mcginon, how old are you this year? Well... 22. Oh, youre old enough to get married. No woman is willing to marry me, Mcginon said. Really? What about Guri? I can marry her to you. Mcginon had just drunk a mouthful of milk tea. Hearing these words, he not only spat the tea into Mahals face but almost dropped the cup. Hurriedly, he put down the cup and wiped the liquid off Mahals face. Mahal gave him a wry smile. In Mahals eyes, Mcginon was just a useless, cowardly hick. But he was the only man Mahal could turn to. Mcginon, do you think its just a joke? Im not joking. I really want to marry Guri to you, Mahal said as he wiped his face. Dati couldnt help interrupting, Are you crazy? Marry Guri to him? He has only one goat and no money! Mahal shouted to her, Shut up! She could only stop talking. Guri was now herding goats. If she learned about this thing, she would undoubtedly fly into a rage. Mahal looked at Mcginon with a smile. Dont you like Guri? Dont you want to marry her? Mcginon certainly didnt want to marry Guri, who was so fierce that few people dared to provoke her. If he married her, what would await him would be endless torture. I-Im not eligible to be her husband, he replied. But Mahal said, If you marry my daughter, our cattle and goats will then all be yours! Mcginon began sweating heavily. Slow as he was, he knew there was no such thing as a free lunch. Mahal must have some ulterior motive. Mcginon, dont be nervous. Its winter now, why are you sweating? Mahal said like a genial elder. I dont wish to marry Guri to you because I want something from you. I really like you for youre very honest and kind-hearted nature. Guri will live a good life with you. If its Tarico, he wont be nice to her. Mcginon liked the sounds of this much more. No one had ever praised him like this before. In this tribe, everyone thought Tarico was the best. Mahal went on, After you marry Guri and inherit my property, youll be the richest in the tribe. Also, you can seed me as tribal leader in the future. Mcginon waved his hands instantly. I... I dont have the ability. Money is the only ability! Mahal said. But then, he heaved a deep sigh of affected sadness. Actually, Im also not sure of this. ording to the previous rules, if you marry Guri and inherit my property, you can definitely be the next tribal leader. But now, Tarico and those outsiders are running the camel team and have won the kings trust. Even my position can not be guaranteed. s, if only those people and the camels would disappear in our tribe. Mcginon finally understood Mahals intention. He was expected to eliminate Tarico and the camel team. This was the premise for him marrying Guri. He sweated even more. Mahal patted his shoulder. Think about this. You can earn only one or two taels each month working for Tarico. But if you be my son-inw, you can then gain one or two taels every day. Which do you think is a better deal? Facing the choice, Mcginon wiped the sweat from his forehead. But a wicked idea had been secretly germinating in his mind. ... As they ate naans and drank alcohol around the fire that night, Tarico found that Mcginon appeared to be continually absent-minded. Born in a poor family, Mcginon had experienced childhood in hunger, so he was always the most active during mealtime. But today, he had been chewing a naan for a long time. He also had no interest in the other dishes. Tarico had cooked a steamed fish which almost everyone thought was delicious. However, Mcginon tasted merely a bit of it in azy manner. Tarico didnt figure out what was up with him but just observed quietly. After dinner, they continued drinking alcohol and chatting about women, cattle and goats. But Mcginon didnt join the crowd. Instead, he smirked from time to time silently. Someone yed a joke on him. Mcginon, you can finally pursue a woman boldly at the Festival of Sacrifice because you have a sry now. Mcginon often smiled in reply, but today, his tone sounded tough and angry. Who will like me? Im so poor! With the sry, youre not poor anymore. When its spring, our camel team can earn us money. By then, we can have great fun in Beihui city again. Mcginon gave the man an absent smile. Since he was too boring, the others didnt bother to joke about him anymore. Only Tarico noticed the stitching on his coat. Judging by its delicacy, it must have been sewn by a woman that day. Tarico couldnt help smiling. It seemed Mcginon had taken fancy to a woman. ... Soon, it was the Spring Festival again. Ye Xiaoxian was now living close to other refugees. They thought it important to maintain their traditional customs, celebrating a lively festival. Therefore, they bought some red paper from the town and used it to makenterns and also window decorations, which greatly livened up the atmosphere. On New Years Eve, they gathered in the Xiaos and the Lius public yurt. Ye Xiaoxian gave the children some copper coins strung together with red string, which made them very excited. It was their first time being given lucky money since they hade to the tribe. If any vendors passed there someday, the children could then use the money to buy delicious food. When it was midnight, the crowd went out to y with firecrackers. Out with the old, in with the new, it was a year with new hope. ... At the same time, Longmen Inn was very quiet. After all, no one would live in the inn on New Years Eve. Usually at this time, Jin Xiaoyu did nothing special except for letting her employees do whatever they like. Then, Idiot put up rednterns and Fool pasted up pictures of door gods. Jin Xiaoyu only wanted to get drunk and sleep until the first day of the new year, then continue to drink. But this year was different. With Xiao Baoshans apaniment, she suddenly thought they should have a sense of ritual at this festival. So she asked her employees to decorate the inn festively and to cook a feast. But she didnt allow Xiao Baoshan to do anything, saying that he was now her man, the future owner of this inn. Chapter 254 - New Years Eve

Chapter 254. New Years Eve

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio The others were envious, but they didnt darein. After all, they were indeed not as popr as Xiao Baoshan. But Xiao Baoshan was driven by his nature to keep busy. Now that he couldnt help with cooking, he might as well do the cleaning. There were so many rooms in the inn, giving him endless work to do. As such, Jin Xiaoyu was left alone again. Inevitably, she felt displeased about this. With arms crossed, she leaned against the door frame and said to the man who was cleaning the window, Dumb, its New Years Eve. Why cant you apany me? He replied in a t tone, I have to finish the work first. Work can never be finished. Besides, Ive asked those guys to clean the rooms. She pouted her lips. He brushed the window with a finger and showed her the dust on it. She frowned in anger. How dare they be offhand with me! I must teach them a lesson tonight! Xiao Baoshan went on with his work. Bored, she went downstairs and drank alone. After a while, the feast was ready. She asked Xiao Baoshan toe down for dinner. Only then did he put down the rag and the bucket. Having been carefully cooked, the meal was more hearty and more delicious than usual. Jin Xiaoyu put a piece of fish into Xiao Baoshans bowl and said, Taste a piece of fish and always be rich! He said, Thank you. She then put a noodle into his bowl. Taste a noodle and our love will be stable. He still said, Thank you. She brushed his leg with hers under the table. Verbal thanks are not sincere at all. Can you do something practical, like giving me a kiss? He remained still. Idiot said, Miss Jin, this is an impossible task for him. Hes such a stick. How could he kiss you in front of us? Fool agreed. Yes, if he did, you may not like him. Miss Jin, dont you always say you like his stubbornness? You say hes restrained, unlike other men. Jin Xiaoyu was persuaded. Then, she gave each man a bag of lucky money. Xiao Baoshan weighed the bag in his hand and guess there were about 100 copper coins inside. He said in a low voice, Thank you. Then, he lowered his head to eat. Jin Xiaoyuughed and said, Youre so dumb! Oh yes, after dinner, you should take a shower and change your clothes. Ive prepared new clothes for all of you. Its a custom on New Years Eve. He nodded. ... It was very quiet in the desert at night. The firecrackers Dull set off only created a moment of jubtion and didnt make much difference. When Xiao Baoshan got dressed after a shower, Jin Xiaoyu went in secretly. Seeing her, he covered his body with clothes immediately, turned around, and put them on. Sheughed. Why take the trouble to do that? Ive seen itst time when I gave you my body. She approached and went to throw her arms around him. But he stepped backward to avoid her hug. Were not a couple yet. I cant touch you. You... she said angrily. I told you Ill marry you sooner orter. Youve also promised this. Why do you care about that ceremony? You dont have parents, and neither do I. We belong to each other when we share one bed. Xiao Baoshan was silent. Obviously, he wasnt in agreement. She also gave up arguing with him because it wouldnt work. She asked, So you want to marry me with a sedan chair carried by eight people? He finally replied, Yes, at least one carried by four people. She suddenly snorted withughter. What a lovely dumb man he was! But somehow, she was touched. Since she had opened this inn, quite a few men had expressed their desire to marry her, but that was just for fun. What they wanted was merely her body. However, Xiao Baoshan was different. He insisted that he marry her in a formal way, giving her a real wedding party. Since thest time, he never touched her again. No matter how much she hinted, he refused for the reason that they were not married. It was his principle that only a couple could share a room and do that kind of thing. ... Jin Xiaoyu sat on his bed with a sigh. Baoshan asked her, Why are you sighing? She leaned against the headboard and replied, I never thought about marriage. I just wanted to y the game of life and then die alone, because I believed men were all unreliable. Only when I met you did I realize there is such a man as you in this world. What kind of man am I? he asked. She yawned. Youre nice to me and dont take me for a ything. Because you were born as a person, not a ything, he said. She asked, Why arent you curious about my reason for opening an inn in the desert? He said, Youll tell me if you want to. You have the right to keep a secret. She gave a wry smile and said faintly, Youll ask me if you care about me, and you wont if you dont. Xiao Baoshan fell into silence. How much did he care about her? It seemed very little if at all. Without that part of memory, he always felt empty in his mind. It was like he was notpletely himself and something was waiting for him to discover. Getting no reply from him, Jin Xiaoyu said, Forget it. I dont expect you to care about me. After all, its I who like you. Then, she began telling her story. When I was little, my dad always beat my mom fiercely, making her bleed all over. Sometimes she was hurt so badly that she had to rest on the bed for several days. Hearing that, Xiao Baoshan gave a sympathetic look. Your mom had a very hard life. Yes, she did have a hard life. But I didnt feel sympathetic towards her at all because she was too weak. Sometimes when she copsed, my dad beat me because I was a girl who couldnt carry on the family lineage. And yet, my mom never helped me. She thought she suffered because of me. In that family, I had no status at all. I was like a rag that anyone could stamp on. But when I was nine, I changed my life. Do you know what I did? He asked, What did you do? A tear ran down her smiling face. That day, after beating my mom, my dad hit me again. Then, he drank and got drunk as usual. While he was asleep, I took a knife and cut his throat. He jolted and then didnt move anymore. His blood soaked my clothes and my body. My mom was freaked out. She thought I was a devil and didnt want me anymore. So I left and almost died outside. One day, when I begged on the street, I met my master. He adopted me, gave me food to eat, and taught me martial arts. But after some time, he was killed by his enemy. Xiao Baoshan looked at her with sympathy. It was unbelievable that this young woman had experienced so much suffering. She wiped away her tears with strength. Oh, how ridiculous I am! I swore that I wouldnt shed any tears again. But in front of you, I cant control myself. For the first time, he said in a gentle voice, Its everyones right to shed tears. When youre sad, you can cry. This is not weakness. She gave him a grateful look and whispered, Why do I like you so much? He asked with rare curiosity, What happened then? I took revenge on the man who killed my master and used my masters money to open this inn. Then, I met you. She smiled. Again, hepsed into silence. Feeling the quietness, she said, Dumb, bring some wine over here. Lets drink together. So he went downstairs and brought a jar of wine back. Jin Xiaoyu poured the wine into two cups. Tonight is New Years Eve. Drink with me until daybreak. He nodded. Then, they began drinking cup after cup. Nothing else happened that night. But, when Jin Xiaoyu was almost drunk, she asked, Dumb, marry me in early spring, will you? Soberly, he nodded. He was just like some lonely, rootless duckweed and she seemed to share the same fate, though she knew where she was from. So, he thought, why not apany one another? Besides, he had touched her body and promised to marry her. ... One day, Tarico went up into the mountains to pick leaves for the camels food. Since he was high on the mountain, he could see very far. When he climbed on a tree, he noticed Mcginon at the foot of a mountain. Appearing sly and furtive, Mcginon was looking around for something, which made Tarico very curious. Was he waiting for a woman? It seemed very likely. Curious about which woman it was, Tarico watched Mcginon quietly. If he knew who she was, he would definitely help his brother pursue her. After all, Mcginon might be too shy to show his charm and express his affection. However, the one who approached Mcginon was not a woman but Mahal. At this moment, Mahal also looked very furtive. He gave Mcginon a package and whispered something to him. After Mahal left, Mcginon sat down, holding the package nervously. He unwrapped it and put something into his pocket. After a while, he dug a hole and buried the object inside, but he soon took it out again. Whatever it was, he looked very hesitant. Chapter 255 - New Tribal Leader

Chapter 255. New Tribal Leader

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Tarico suddenly understood something. He blew a whistle at the downhill. Hearing that, Mcginon looked up and found Tarico. Subconsciously, he hid the thing behind him nervously. Tarico went downstairs with studied casualness and walked up to Mcginon. Arent you going to herd goats? Why are you here? Mcginon hemmed and hawed, I... Suddenly, Taricoughed. I know youre not cking off. Everyone has his or her little secrets. Are you waiting for a woman? Mcginon sighed with relief. Tarico went on, If youve found someone you like, you should be brave to show your affection. Dont be so timid, or the woman may think youre not reliable enough. Mcginon looked somewhat ashamed. Isnt it who you like? That woman forces you to marry her? Tarico patted him on his shoulder. Bro, marriage is not a game. It must be based on mutual love, or youll suffer a lot in the future. If a couple quarrel, the man may beat the woman, while the woman may kill the man. Perhaps shell poison him secretly. Re-really? Mcginon asked. He sweated all over and his face turned pale with fright. Seeing that, Tarico was surer of his spection. Mahal must have promised Mcginon some benefits, and in return, Mcginon was required to do a bad deed for him. And it must be about the camel team. Tarico then said, Sure. How could you be happy in a forced marriage? Even if the woman may be nice to you, her parents wont treat you well. They will take you as a puppet at their mercy. When you be useless to them, they will naturally kick you away. Mcginon sweated even more heavily. Tarico added, As you know, although women are given rtively equal status with men in our tribe, men are still in a dominant position. If youre bullied by your wife or her parents, youll be looked down upon by other men. Youd better find a woman of simr status and live happily with her. Mcginon fell into silence. Tarico thought he had said enough. It was up to Mcginon how to take his next step. Certainly, he would watch Mcginon closely, giving him no chance to hurt the camels. ...... ... As a result, before it got dark, Mcginon went to Tarico with the poison given by Mahal. He confessed that Mahal wanted to marry Guri to him and asked him to poison Tarico and the camels. He said he had never thought about doing so, but Mahal promised to give him all the property, a temptation that was hard to reject. But after hearing Taricos words, he suddenly realized that Mahal was just using him. If he really killed Tarico and the camels, Mahal might act like a deadbeat because no evidence could prove his crime. Besides, he didnt like Guri, and her parents wouldnt treat him well, either. If they poisoned him to death, he would lose everything. With brothers and sries, he was now living such a good life. Why listen to Mahal and ruin the current peaceful life? Tarico pretended as if he didnt know anything in advance. At the same time, he praised Mcginon for his righteousness and cleverness, which made Mcginon a little bashful. ...... ... Soon, it was spring again. Ye Xiaoxian liked this snow-melting, green-spreading season very much. Once the season came, it meant the tribe would be lively again. The flocks of cattle and goats would be back from another pasture and they would celebrate the Festival of Sacrifice. After the festival, they would go on with their business. All activities would be back on the track. The day Tarico was back, Ye Xiaoxian went out to greet him joyfully. To be exact, she was there to check if the camels were fewer or thinner. Fortunately, the camels were safe. After a long journey, none of them was lost. Actually, after a winter of recuperation, they looked much stronger than before. Seeing Ye Xiaoxian, Tarico appeared very happy. He gave her some nuts that he had picked along the way for her to eat at home. He asked, How was your winter? His voice was more than gentle. Having separated from her for a long time, he missed her very much and couldnt hold his feelings. She replied, Nothing particr happened. But weve prepared a lot of products to be sold after the Festival of Sacrifice. Your work must be tougher. It was just fine. It was warmer there without ice or snow. The region here was vast with varying climates. If one rode for a day, he could experience two seasons. It might be spring on another pasture and it was winter here. No wonder the camels have be so strong, she said with a smile. I value their lives more than mine, he joked. Dont say that way. Your own life is the most important. Then, she asked, Was there any ident in the winter? Yes, Tarico said. All our camels were almost dead. She was shocked. Why? What happened then? He smiled. Are you worried about me? She paused and replied, Im worried about the camels. You said my life was the most important, but now you only care about the camels. Youre so hypocritical. Tarico said with augh. Ye Xiaoxian also chuckled. Im so curious. Why were the camels almost dead? What happened then? But he said, Considering that you dont care about me, I decide to keep you in suspense. Youll know after the Seventh Kinges. Will hee this year? Yes, I suppose so. Itll soon be the Festival of Sacrifice. Last time he left, he said he woulde here two days before the festival. Great. Youll know what happened after hees. Oh yes, do you have anything to eat? Weve stayed long there and now we miss your dishes very much. Ye Xiaoxian said generously, Thene with your brothers tonight. Lets have a reunion dinner together. ... Two dayster, Li Chengru came again. Wong Wen and Wong Wu told him the evil deed Guri had done, Tarico also told him Mahals attempt to buy Mcginon. Irritated, Li Chengru immediately asked people to send Mahal and his family over. Mahal had just returned from the second pasture. He had been dragging his heels all the way because Mcginon, who had agreed to help him, suddenly turned his coat. He was afraid that Li Chengru would punish him for this. He felt an impulse to escape. But his roots were in the tribe where he had many goats and a home. Where could he escape? Knowing that Li Chengru summoned him and his family, he couldnt even steady himself with his trembling legs. He stammered, Why, why does the Seventh King wa-want to meet us? Wong Wen and Wong Wu said angrily, You know what wrongdoings youve done! Why bother to ask us? Youd better you go there immediately. The Seventh King has a fiery temper. If you provoke him, the consequences will be even worse. Mahal could only head for the Xiaos and the Lius yurts with Dati and Guri. Apart from Mahal and his family, Li Chengru had also asked the tribal seniors and some respected elders over. A country had itsws and a tribe also had its special rules. In the interrogation of any tribal member, these elders participation was necessary. They would join the discussion and reach a verdict together. On entering the yurt, Mahal was dumbfounded. Why were there so many people? All of them, including the tribal seniors, were looking at him with regret and dissatisfaction. It seemed that he couldnt maintain his position this time. Sitting in the middle, Li Chengru questioned, Mahal, what did you do on the second pasture? Fess up! Guri wanted to confess her guilt, so she said, It has nothing to do with my father. I did it all. I wanted to poison all the camels because I hated Tarico. I liked him so much before, but he always refused me and that made me feel very humiliated. Li Chengru said, This is just the first guilt. Even if your father didnt participate, he bought Mcginonter and wanted him to poison the camels. Mcginon, tell us what happened. Scared as he was, Mcginon told them every detail of the thing. Mahal didnt know how to refute it because that was the fact. Besides, no one would believe Mcginon was a liar. Helplessly, Mahal confessed, Its all my fault. I heard that Tarico had earned much money by leading the camel team and was afraid that he would pose a threat to me. To secure my position, I bought Mcginon in a moment of madness. Fortunately, Mcginon didnt do as I told, or the consequences would be serious. Im willing to ept any punishment. Li Chengru looked at the other seniors. Hes admitted his guilt, so we dont wrong him. Mahal is sly and selfish. He doesnt deserve to be your tribal leader, so I decide to dismiss him. As a punishment, he also needs to give 100 goats to the camel team. Do you agree? Mahal didnt dare to oppose. Anyway,pensating was much better than being imprisoned downtown. After a discussion, the seniors also said the punishment was reasonable. But after Mahal was dismissed, the position would be vacant. A senior said, Now we have to elect a new tribal leader, but that needs time to prepare. Im afraid the election can only be held after the Festival of Sacrifice. Li Chengru said, This is your tribal business, so I wont intervene. But the new leader must be righteous, charismatic and responsible. Besides, since the camel team is your key task, the new leader should be someone associated with it. Hearing that, all the people looked at Tarico. Chapter 256 - Picking a Wife

256. Picking a Wife

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Tarico couldnt help asking, Why are you looking at me? Im not suitable to be a tribal leader and I have no interest in it. I cant manage so many things. One of the seniors said, If it has to be associated with the camel team, then it can only be Tarico. Although Tarico is an orphan, hes upright and gets along well with young men. He has the awareness to help someone like Mcginon. Besides, the young men all listen to him, so hes the best candidate to manage tribal affairs. Tarico replied, I usually go out with the camel team, so I have no much time for tribal affairs. Wont you be worried about a leader whos often not in the tribe? Mahal also often went out to earn his money. Besides, if theres anything, we can help you handle it. If it really needs your decision, we can just wait for you. Tarico still wanted to decline it. But just then, Li Chengru said impatiently, Tarico, now that the seniors believe youre suitable andpetent, just take this position and be a good leader. Tarico was rendered wordless. What a hot temper this king had! It appeared as if Tarico was a dilly-dally man. Another senior said, Now that the Seventh King also said so, lets set the handover ceremony on the Festival of Sacrifice. Tarico, youre picked by our king in person. You cant refuse it. Taricos brothers also elected him to be the tribal leader. They told him not to think too much and promised that they would support him after he became the leader. As such, Tarico could only agree. ... ... The news that Tarico would rece Mahal as the tribal leader soon sparked a hot discussion in the tribe. Some agreed with the decision and some opposed it. But generally, more people were for it than against it. In the past, Tarico had been merely a poor guy. Despite his excellence in archery and riding, he had been not qualified to be a leader. But now, he was leading the camel team which was valued by the two kings, so he was totally eligible to rule the tribe. Those who supported Tarico also tried to reason with those who didnt. Gradually, the dissenting voices became less and less. Anyway, Tarico was better than Mahal in many aspects. During these years, Mahal hadnt made any contributions to improving the peoples living standards. Besides, his wife and daughter always abused the power and bullied the others, which irritated many people. ... Knowing that Tarico would be the tribal leader, Ye Xiaoxian also felt very happy for him. Under his leadership, they could obtain more freedom in trading and more convenience in purchasing materials. Besides, Tarico could publicize their brand and encourage the locals to support their work so as to reach a win-win situation. After a discussion, Ye Xiaoxian and Squire Liu decided to buy a suit and a ck pair of leather shoes for Tarico to wear at the ceremony when he woulde to power. ...... ... The Festival of Sacrifice. Likest year, the families ughtered cattle and goats as sacrifices to the Tianshan god. After that, there were singing and dancing performances. Without Guri, the female dance became much better in part because the dancers selected were all very beautiful. Ye Xiaoxian also saw the show and was greatly amazed by the women who were exceptionally pleasant to the eye. On the second day, it was shooting and ridingpetitions. Li Chengru didnt participate this time, but Tarico did. Unsurprisingly, Tarico won the first prize again. Then, it was the handover ceremony. Wearing new clothes and a wreath, Tarico was pushed onto the stage by his brothers. He was somewhat embarrassed at first. Having been used to a free, casual life, he felt unnatural to attend such a formal ceremony. But as he showed up, many women eximed in surprise. Tarico used to be a poor guy dressing casually, but now he looked more than dashing in a new crisp robe. It was not exaggerating to say that he was the most handsome in the tribe. Seeing others astonished expressions, the girl living near Tarico said proudly, You just found hes good-looking? I told you, Tarico is the most handsome. Hes better than those from rich families. On the stage, the handover ceremony began. After worshiping the heaven, the earth and the Tianshan god, Tarico was sprinkled with holy water collected from the Tianshan mountains. Then, he was led down the stage to walk around. After going through the process, he finally became the official leader in the tribe. As soon as the ceremony was over, the atmosphere eased. Someone shouted from below the stage. Tarico, I remember theres a rule in our tribe. The leader, if unmarried, can show his affection for a woman on the day of the ceremony. Usually, this woman wont reject you. The seniors also thought of that. Unlike most leaders, Tarico was not only young but unmarried. Few leaders were single when they came to power. The seniors advised, Tarico, just pick a gentle and virtuous woman on the spot. If she agrees, she can be your wife and help you with tribal affairs from today on. The women below the stage suddenly became shy. Some wished to be chosen, but they were too shy to say it out. So they took two steps forward, hoping to attract his attention. The girl living near Tarico even raised her hand slightly to draw his attention. At the same time, the men bantered in chorus, Tarico, pick one, pick one! ... Standing on the stage, Tarico felt somewhat uneasy, but he had a nce at Ye Xiaoxian subconsciously. At this moment, she was among a group of locals. Thinking the ceremony might be interesting, she had alsoe here to have a look. When Tarico looked at her, she suddenly felt nervous. He had bared his heart to her once. Would he do that again? Please dont! She didnt want to be a target for envy and she didnt think she was suitable to be a tribal leaders wife. Tarico hadnt stabilized his position; if he married a southern woman, he would be opposed by those anti-foreign people. After a while, Tarico said, Actually, Ive found the woman I like. The crowd asked, Who is she? Tell us who she is! Bare your heart to her! You can marry her right away! Tarico paused and said, But she doesnt like me. The crowd burst into an uproar. Chapter 257 - Meeting

257. Meeting

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Someone said, Youre the tribal leader now. Perhaps shes changed her mind. If you show your affection for her, shell ept you. Yes! Just do it! Tarico cleared his throat and said, The woman who received my agate ne, if youve changed your mind, could youe onto the stage? Ye Xiaoxians heartbeat quickened. She remembered that Tarico had once given her a ne though she had never worn it or shown it to others. After she returned from Beihui city by then, she wanted to give the ne to Li Hongmei. But she was so busy that she forgot it, so the ne was still ced in the wooden box beside her bed. Hearing Taricos words, the crowd began looking around to see if any woman would go onto the stage. To avoid being suspected, Ye Xiaoxian also looked left and right, pretending as if she was not that woman. She wouldnt go up to be his wife. She didnt want to marry at all. Or to be exact, Tarico didnt give her that kind of feeling C the eagerness to be with him for a whole life no matter what would happen. Only Xiao Baoshan had ever given her such a strong desire. The expectation in Taricos eyes was gradually reced by disappointment. His eyelids drooped. He smiled self-mockingly. It seems that she wonte up. All right, Ill keep waiting for her. Most women felt it a pity for the one Tarico liked. Tarico was so handsome. Even if she hadnt liked him before, she should change her mind now. Women were all fearless when they fell in love. Now that this blessed woman wasnt willing toe out, she might really have no feeling for Tarico. To ease the embarrassment, the seniors said, It doesnt matter. Tarico is still young and can invest more energy in tribal affairs. Theres no hurry about marriage. ... Longmen Inn. As it became warmer here, the customers also gradually increased. One day, Jin Xiaoyu said to Xiao Baoshan in a sweet voice, Dumb, youll marry me, right? The weather is good today. Why dont we go downtown to buy something we need for our wedding? It had been Silly and Dull who were responsible for purchasing materials for the inn. Jin Xiaoyu seldom went outdoor, let alone Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan had promised to marry herst year. Now, it was spring. If he kept dying the marriage, he would be an irresponsible man that he hated. He put down the rag and replied in a t tone, Okay. Jin Xiaoyu was displeased. Why do you sound so reluctant? Youre unwilling to marry me? No, he said. Then, he added, Ive promised you. It sounded like it was just for a promise. But Jin Xiaoyu was happy about his answer. Change your clothes then. Ill get changed, too. Well go there by carriage, have great fun, and sleep in an inn there at night. Xiao Baoshan then went back to his bedroom. But when he opened his wooden box, he thought the clothes he was wearing were good enough. Clothes were for covering ones body. Why bother to dress so fancily? He knew Jin Xiaoyu would spend much time picking a dress and wearing makeup, so he just sat on the bed waiting. Somehow, he felt empty in his heart. Every day, he climbed on that dune and observed the passers-by quietly. The new faces always lit up the light of hope in his eyes. Perhaps among these people, some came for him. But as it turned out, no one was here to find him. Maybe he had been forgotten or abandoned, or why wasnt there anyone to find him? Maybe it was his best choice to marry Jin Xiaoyu. At least there would be someone to apany him for his rest life. ... After getting changed, Jin Xiaoyu pushed open the door of his bedroom and found him sitting still on the bed. She paused and asked, Are you all right? Hearing her voice, he drew back his attention and said apologetically, I dont think I need to get changed. The clothes on me are good enough. Besides, I have only two robes. If we are going to stay outside, Ill also need to change clothes tonight. She couldnt help patting her forehead. s, its all my fault. If I had bought you a new outfit, you wouldnt need to dress like this. Forget it. Just go this way. The carriage has been ready outside. You drive it, okay? ... Xiao Baoshan was very skillful when he rode the horse, though he didnt know which way to go. Jin Xiaoyu, sitting in the carriage, pointed at the roads from time to time. She was dressed very gorgeously, dripping with jewels. It was like she was ady from a rich family while Xiao Baoshan was merely a coachman. After telling him the way to go, she threw her arms around his neck and asked, Dumb, tell me the truth C are you reluctant to marry me? Not like that. Then why are you so absent-minded? She pressed her cheek against his neck. He didnt answer. She said, Forget it. Its useless to ask you this question. Anyway, well be a couple after we get married. By then, you can only ept your fate. If you betray me, Ill kill you. He replied briefly, No. Ill really kill you. I mean, I wont betray you. Satisfied with his answer, sheid her head on his shoulder happily as she showed him the way. Turn left. Do you see the ramparts? Thats Daan county. ... There were only two streets in the county with nothing particr to see and the inns were also rather humble. That was why Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions, on their escape, had gone to Longmen Inn rather than staying in the county. Jin Xiaoyu was very disappointed about Daan county. She said unhappily, Theres nothing to buy here, let alone the clothes for our wedding. What about going to Baoning city? Baoning city? Xiao Baoshan asked. Where is it? It wont be that far, I suppose. If we go fast, itll take only one day. Now that wevee out, lets just take it as a journey. Ive never been to Baoning city. Some customers said it had be much more prosperous than before. There are many things to buy, including quite a few from the Central ins! Well know what kind of city it is after we go there! Xiao Baoshan agreed. For her, he always felt an inexplicable trace of guilt in his heart. ... Baoning city. This day, Xiao Tieshu and Jia Zhenbo also went here. There was a batch of goods that had been left overst year. Now, winter had passed and spring came as a good season to start the business. Their products were very popr here. Usually, they could be sold out in a few hours. At this moment, Xiao Tieshu and Jia Zhenbo were answering customers questions and packing up the products for them. When they were terribly busy, Xiao Tieshu suddenly heard a voice, How much is the vase? Why was it... so familiar? He raised his head hurriedly. Chapter 258 - Is That Xiao Baoshan?

258. Is That Xiao Baoshan?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio In front of the stall stood a handsome, steady man who was a foot taller than those around him. Was it Xiao Baoshan, his nephew? The woman next to him looked somewhat familiar. Xiao Tieshu felt as if he had met her somewhere before. She fancied the vase made in Jingdezhen city, which was famous for its ceramics, and had the man ask about its price. The man was just like a servant carrying quite a few things bought from the market. But that didnt dim his remarkable temperament. He didnt pay attention to Xiao Tieshu because he was talking to Jia Zhenbo. Feeling somebody staring, he finally looked at Xiao Tieshu, but his eyes were calm andposed as if he didnt know the man in front of him. Was it Xiao Baoshan? Could there be two such simr men in this world? Jia Zhenbo quoted the price, Two taels. Do you want it? Xiao Baoshan turned to Jin Xiaoyu who immediately said, Yes. So he bought the vase. Xiao Tieshu wrapped the vase with thick paper to prevent it from breaking. Taking the vase, Xiao Baoshan said thank you politely. When he turned around, Xiao Tieshu asked hastily, Baoshan? Are you Xiao Baoshan? But it was too crowded and noisy. Perhaps the man hadnt heard, or perhaps he wasnt Xiao Baoshan. Either way, he gave no response. Hearing what Xiao Tieshu said, Jia Zhenbo was surprised. You mean that man is your nephew? The general who... gave his life? Xiao Tieshu was still in shock. I dont know. If it were him, he would recognize me. But as you saw, he didnt know me at all. Jia Zhenbo had little impression of Xiao Baoshan, but he remembered Jin Xiaoyu. The woman next to him looks familiar. She seems to be the owner of Longmen Inn where we once lived. Ah, really? Xiao Tieshu also felt that she was familiar, but he didnt remember where he had met her. Jia Zhenbo replied, Im sure she is, because Ive never seen such a coquettish woman as her. Her voice is so sweet and tititing that it can make you feel weak at the knees. Xiao Tieshuughed. Dont let Qianqian hear that. I certainly wont. Ive just thought about that woman for some time and have never expressed my affection for her. She can only live in a mans heart, not his life. Xiao Tieshu still felt that the man was Xiao Baoshan, and that he might have lost his memory from some head injury. You stay here. Ill catch up with him to have a look. he said. ... Xiao Baoshan and Jin Xiaoyu were walking slowly as they went shopping. Xiao Tieshu soon caught up with them and followed them from a distance. He saw that they were intimate with each other. Jin Xiaoyu was holding Xiao Baoshans arm and he didnt refuse it. He also noticed that all the things they bought were items for a wedding like red paper decorations, wedding clothes and some gold and silver jewelry. Were they going to get married? Xiao Tieshu couldnt help thinking, Has Baoshan swapped his love for Little Ye with that innkeeper? Did he pretend not to know me because he wants to abandon Little Ye? If so, should I tell Little Ye about this after I go back? Will she be sad about this? Xiao Tieshu was so anxious that he decided to stop selling goods and go back to the tribe right away. ... However, after returning to the tribe, Xiao Tieshu hesitated again. What if Baoshan really likes that innkeeper and wants to abandon Little Ye? If I tell Little Ye about this, she will feel heartbroken and Baoshan will also be angry. I dont want to hurt either of them. Xiao Tieshu didnt tell Ye Xiaoxian right away. Instead, he discussed it with Wong Mudan first. The night he got back, the others were enjoying their dinner. Without saying a word, he beckoned Wong Mudan over with a wave. Confused, the others asked what was wrong, but he just cast a silent nce at Ye Xiaoxian. Wong Mudan seldom saw such a serious expression on his face. She thought something must have gone wrong and followed him out of the yurt. Were having dinner. Cant we talk about thatter? sheined. Xiao Tieshu said, Dinner? Theres something more important for you to worry about. Do you know who I met in town? Who did you meet? Xiao Tieshu then told her about Xiao Baoshan. After learning this, she got very angry. Why cant we tell Little Ye about this? Shes suffered so much! First she was divorced first and then she escaped with us to this tribe. How hard our journey was! We were treated slightly better just because Baoshan was a general. Now, Little Ye leads us in getting work and earning money, while Baoshan is a hero holding some coquette every day. How cozy his life is! Although hes one of the Xiaos, Little Ye is the real blessing to all of us. She has a right to know about this! Xiao Tieshu said, But theyre going to marry. What can Little Ye do after hearing about this? You want her to get Baoshan back from Longmen Inn? What if he insists on staying with that woman? Little Ye would be so upset! She needs to know the truth. Shes unwilling to remarry because she misses Baoshan. If she knew he was with another woman, shed then get over him. We should consider her future life. Xiao Tieshu felt a headacheing on. But I still feel it improper to do so. Whatever. Just do as I say! If a woman wants a better life, she must forget the asshole first! Xiao Tieshu felt her assertion was arbitrary, but he didnt know how to refute it. Hurry up! Tell Little Ye about this! She dragged him back right away. But just then, they saw Ye Xiaoxian in front of them. Seeing Xiao Tieshus serious and anxious expression, Ye Xiaoxian had thought there was some problem with the goods. Worried that he would go to extremes, she had followed them out secretly, so she heard the whole conversation. Well, Little Ye... Xiao Tieshu scratched his hair, not knowing what to say. Uncle Tieshu, did you really see Baoshan? Xiao Tieshu could only reply, Yes, I saw him. He was with a woman. Zhenbo said shes the owner of Longmen Inn who we once met. I also saw that they had bought many things for a wedding, so I guess theyre going to get married. Did you greet him? Ye Xiaoxian looked rtively calm. Yes, but he didnt recognize me, like hed lost his memory. I couldnt tell whether he was pretending or not. After saying that, he looked at Ye Xiaoxian. She remainedposed. Little Ye... Wong Mudan wanted to know what Ye Xiaoxian was thinking about. Ye Xiaoxian said, Uncle Tieshu, you know which inn hes living in, right? I want to go to town tomorrow. If hes not there, then Ill go to Longmen Inn. Chapter 259 - Wedding

259. Wedding

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio But... Little Ye... Xiao Tieshu wanted to stop Ye Xiaoxian. But Wong Mudan said, Tieshu, just let Little Ye do what she wants to do. You can go with her the whole way and protect her! Showing no reaction, Ye Xiaoxian turned around silently and went back to her bedroom. ... Xiao Tieshu and Wong Mudan went to the public yurt to have dinner. Seeing only the two of them, the others asked what was up with Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Tieshu hemmed and hawed again. Finally, Wong Mudan said, Tieshu said he saw a man who looked like Baoshan and asked me whether he should tell Little Ye about it. Little Ye overheard this and said she would go to town to find him tomorrow. Li Hongmei asked in surprise, Really? If hes really Baoshan, why doesnt hee back? He may have lost his memory and be going to marry the owner of Longmen Inn. But its just a guess. We can confirm it only after we find him. Tieshu will go with Little Ye tomorrow. Squire Liu asked, What if we cant find him? Wong Mudan replied, Then go to Longmen Inn. Little Ye said so just now. This waspletely unexpected. They thought Xiao Baoshan had sacrificed himself, but now he had not only turned up alive but was going to marry the innkeeper! Some still couldnt believe it and asked Xiao Tieshu whether he had mistaken another man for Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Tieshu said with absolute certainty, Both his appearance and voice are exactly the same as Baoshans. How could I mistake him? Hes my nephew! The others fell silent. Squire Liu said, If so, what about sending Wong Wu as well? The camel team hasnt set off anyway. He can protect her. Jia Zhenbo agreed, Yes, that innkeeper is a powerful figure. If they fight, Wong Wu can at least protect Little Ye. Xiao Baozhu also offered, I want to go with Sister Ye, too. I can take care of her. But Liu Qianqian said, I think Im more suitable because Im a better talker. If they curse at Little Ye, I can curse them back. Xiao Baozhu argued, Were going to find people, not to curse. If Baoshan really forgets Little Ye, I must scold him awake! ... ... The next day, Ye Xiaoxian had packed up her luggage early. Wong Wu and Xiao Tieshu had also prepared a carriage for her. She didnt think she needed thepany of so many people, only Xiao Tieshu. But everyone was very enthusiastic after hearing what had happened. Liu Qianqian was particrly determined to go with Ye Xiaoxian. As such, Ye Xiaoxian could only ept. They set off in the morning and arrived in town in the evening. Following Xiao Tieshu, they went to an inn but were told the two people had checked out in the daytime. ording to the innkeepers description, Ye Xiaoxian believed the two were indeed Xiao Baoshan and Jin Xiaoyu, because the man was said to be tall and taciturn and the woman beautiful and coquettish with an exceptionally sweet voice. Ye Xiaoxian wanted to catch up to them straight away, but it waste at night and it was dangerous to go into the desert. Therefore, they could only stay in town for a night. Ye Xiaoxian wasnt in the mood for dinner. Tossing and turning, she couldnt fall asleep until it was almost dawn. ... Longmen Inn. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt wait to get married after she got back. She asked Xiao Baoshan, Dumb, you said you would marry me as soon as you got everything ready. Now, we have everything we need for our wedding. Isnt it time for us to hold a wedding ceremony? They had wedding clothes, red candles, peanuts, red dates, longan fruit and many other things. Since they lived in the inn, they didnt need a sedan chair which was a waste of money for them. Xiao Baoshan also thought it time to fulfill his promise. In the Central ins, people usually picked an auspicious day to hold a wedding. But neither Xiao Baoshan nor Jin Xiaoyu had parents, and no special guests would attend their wedding, so they decided to get married the next day. The following morning, Jin Xiaoyu got up early and ordered the employees to decorate the inn with red paper cuttings, red ribbons and also red candles in the center. In short, it should be like a house for a new couple. She wanted to make Xiao Baoshan feel that it was aplete wedding. Seeing the decorations, the customers who lived in the inn asked her curiously, Miss Jin, are you going to marry today? Yes! Today is my big day, so all the food is free and amodation half the price! she deimed cheerfully. Some regr customers said, Its said that the owner of Longmen Inn would remain unmarried her entire life and treat men as her toys. What made you change your mind? Sheughed heartily. Id love to do so. Who could stop me? Someone asked, Which man is so lucky? Jin Xiaoyu suddenly became very shy. Youll find out tonight. ... Xiao Baoshan didnt sleep the entire night. The nearer it became to the wedding, the emptier he felt in his heart. Early in the morning, he went to the sand dune again and sat there for a long time until Jin Xiaoyu also came. She walked up to him quietly and asked, Dumb, why are you here again? He rose, looked at her, and said faintly, Im used to sitting here for a while every day. She then asked, Its our big day today. Are you unhappy? No. He looked up at the sun to see what time it was and said, Lets go back now. We need to get changed. And also to put on makeup. She snuggled close up to him and said expectantly, Dumb, youll see a beautiful bride today. He stroked her hair and nodded. When he looked up at the sky again, he found a cloud that came from not far away and blocked the sun. ... At twilight, the inn had been well-decorated. It was jubnt withnterns and festoons everywhere. The customers and employees were gathered in the hall. Xiao Baoshan had also put on his wedding suit with a red-cloth flower ball over his neck. Quietly, he was waiting downstairs. After a while, JIn Xiaoyu appeared at the turn of the stairway. She was wearing a red wedding dress with a gold phoenix crown on her head. The delicate makeup even ttered her beauty and brilliance. Lips pouted, she said in a sweet voice, Dumb, why dont you carry me in your arms? You want the bride to walk down? After saying that, she covered her face with a red bridal veil. Getting her meaning, Xiao Baoshan walked up the stairs amid the whistles. Then, he held her in his arms and walked downstairs. The cheers became louder. Someone even cried, Take her to the bridal chamber! Go through the rituals first! Theres no hurry! ... Just then, several people arrived at the inn. It was Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions. They rushed inside without saying a word. Silly was responsible for guarding the door. He asked, Do you want amodation? Youre very lucky. Its our bosss wedding tonight, so the food is free and amodation half the price. Ye Xiaoxian ignored Silly and squeezed through to the front through the crowd. Amid theints from the people around her, she suddenly saw the man she missed. He was tall, strong, quiet and steady. Who else could it be if not Xiao Baoshan? How long had it been since shest saw him? Seeing him again after such a long separation, she felt like she might be dreaming. At this moment, he seemed like a total stranger to her. Opening her mouth, she wanted to call him but failed, because he was holding another woman. Just then, Liu Qianqian shouted, Xiao Baoshan, its really you! Youre an asshole, a jackass, a two-timer! Hearing her sharp voice, all the people present craned to look at her, including Xiao Baoshan. She was the second person who had called him Xiao Baoshan. Thest person said he was a traitor and this one cursed him as a two-timer. How notorious had he been in the past? Liu Qianqian took Ye Xiaoxians arm and strode up to him in a huff. Xiao Baoshan, look at the woman beside me. Shes called Little Ye and shes your wife! But you pretended to be dead didnte back. Do you know how much shes suffered all these years? She helps to take care of your mother, brother, sister and other rtives. But youve put them all behind you and even married another woman! For a coquette, you abandon such a good wife! What an asshole you are! Everybody was astonished. Jin Xiaoyu pulled off her veil and jumped down from Xiao Baoshans arms. She saw Ye Xiaoxian who was gazing at Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan was also looking at Ye Xiaoxian. Her eyes were glinting with hatred, sorrow, grievance and more mixed emotions. Her expression was the best evidence for the rtionship between them. Subconsciously, he took a step away from Jin Xiaoyu. After taking a deep breath, Ye Xiaoxian said in a trembling voice, Xiao Baoshan, I thought you were dead! Id rather you were dead! Xiao Tieshu also said, Baoshan, its really wrong for you to do this. Little Ye has done so much for this family. Without her, we might have starved to death on our escape. Although you wrote a divorce letter to her, we believed you just wanted to protect her. We didnt expect that you would really abandon her. Even if youre my nephew, Ill stand by Little Ye this time. Liu Qianqian dragged Ye Xiaoxian over her. Little Ye, dont bother talking to such a jackass! Lets go! Just let him stay here with that evil seductress for the rest of his life! But Ye Xiaoxian waved Liu Qianqians hand off, her eyes still locked on Xiao Baoshan. Isnt it free to dine and half the price to stay here tonight? Now that wevee, why dont we stay and have a free meal? Little Ye, why bother... Liu Qianqian knew such a feeling and didnt want Ye Xiaoxian, who had suffered much enough, to experience the pain. But Ye Xiaoxian simply sat down at a table and poured a cup of wine for herself. Then, she gulped it down. Chapter 260 - I Thought You Were Dead

260. I Thought You Were Dead

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio At that moment, most of the onlookers became excited. What an interesting scene! A mans wife interrupting his new wedding to another woman! How could they miss it? Xiao Baoshan gazed at Ye Xiaoxian steadily. Jin Xiaoyu had only a vague impression of Ye Xiaoxian, a special woman who had been here once before, but she hadnt expected her to know Dumb, let alone be his ex-wife. As the wedding ceremony stopped, the atmosphere also became dull. Someone shouted, Miss Jin, dont chicken out! Go on with the wedding first! Miss Jin, why bother worrying about his wife? This mans a good match for you! After the wedding, youll be his real wife! Didnt someone say he gave the woman a letter of divorce? Yes... ... Jin Xiaoyu was also observing Ye Xiaoxian. Hearing the noises, she shouted impatiently, Shut up! When she wanted to ask Xiao Baoshan, he squeezed through the crowd toward Ye Xiaoxian. Jin Xiaoyus heart sank as she had a terrible foreboding. Xiao Baoshan walked up to Ye Xiaoxian and gazed at her. You know me? My name is Xiao Baoshan? Ye Xiaoxian lifted her head and looked into his eyes. You dont know who you are? Amnesia? Wasnt that a usual plot for a modern CEO in a TV series? But she was now in ancient times. Did amnesia also usually happen to excellent men in this era? Xiao Baoshan replied, About a year ago, I woke up at the base of a mountain and didnt know who I was or where I was from. Confused and disorientated, I came to this inn and was taken in by Miss Jin. Id been waiting for my family to look for me, but no one came. So I thought, perhaps, I had no home or family. Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were stunned by what he said. One year ago? Wasnt that when he disappeared? Qian Qi said he had sent people to searched around that mountain but didnt find Xiao Baoshan. It turned out that Xiao Baoshan had walked to Longmen Inn which was not in their search area. Thinking about this, Xiao Tieshu tapped his thigh. I told you he has amnesia. Hes such an honest man. How could he be a two-timer? Hes still Baoshan even though hes lost his memory. Liu Qianqian was still suspicious. Who says an honest man cant be a two-timer? Some betrayers are indeed honest men. But... Xiao Baoshan, have you really forgotten what happened before? Are you acting? Standing next to Xiao Baoshan, Silly exined, Hes not acting. He indeed cant remember anything. Hes called Dumb here. None of us know his real name! Xiao Baoshan nodded. I dont remember my name being Xiao Baoshan. Who is Xiao Baoshan? Is he a good man or bad? What did he do before? Liu Qianqian looked at Ye Xiaoxian who was gazing at Xiao Baoshan in astonishment. He had really lost his memory! She knew Xiao Baoshan was not someone who would pretend to have amnesia or leave his family behind because of a woman. So Liu Qianqian said to him, Xiao Baoshan, I heard about your story from others. You were a great general who achieved victory in almost every battle. Certainly, you lost once, but that was not your fault. You saved many lives and they called you a hero. Later, to save people, you got injured and disappeared. We couldnt find you and thought you were dead. A hero? Out of shock, Xiao Baoshan took a step back. The previous group of people calling him Xiao Baoshan had said he was a traitor. This group of people also called him Xiao Baoshan, but they were saying that he was a hero. He looked at Ye Xiaoxian. Who do you think I am? With tears in her eyes, she huffed, I dont care who you are. In my eyes, you were my husband in the past and youre my ex-husband now! Youve divorced me and are going to marry another woman! At that moment, he suddenly felt an ache in his chest. He could clearly feel her sadness, and as her figure became more and more familiar, it seemed to coincide with that in his dreams. If this woman was really his wife, how should he treat Jin Xiaoyu? He turned to Jin Xiaoyu. Jin Xiaoyu had been watching them talk. When she met his eyes, she burst outughing. Sheughed louder and louder and tears started toe. Puzzled, some guests asked, Miss Jin, why are youughing in such a situation? Jin Xiaoyu ignored them and keptughing. After a long while, she stopped and asked Xiao Baoshan, Dumb, you say you always dream of a woman. Is she the one in front of you? If she is... She grabbed a jar and gulped the wine inside down. Then, she smashed the jar onto the ground. Im Jin Xiaoyu, and I dont bother myself with stealing another womans man! If shes the one in your heart, you can go with her! After saying that, she turned around and went upstairs. The others were again stunned. They had heard much about her daring ways of loving and letting go, which proved to be true here. She didnt even ask for an exnation. It was Xiao Baoshan who was in the wrong. Xiao Baoshan was also very regretful. He had hurt two womens feelings. He couldnt help asking himself if he had made a mistake, but he didnt know anything at all. It pained him to see Ye Xiaoxians sorrowful and angry face, while he also felt sympathetic towards Jin Xiaoyu when she broke the jar. Xiao Tieshu, as the patriarch, finally said, Baoshan, if youve really lost your memory, you shouldnt get married now. You shoulde back with us to see your mother and hear what she has to say. If you marry Miss Jin, youll fail Little Ye. Why dont you decide what to do after careful consideration? Ye Xiaoxian rose and took a deep breath. I dont care about that. He can marry anyone he likes. After all, he has given me a letter of divorce. Worried, Liu Qianqian dragged Ye Xiaoxians sleeve hurriedly. Little Ye, are you crazy? You know a womans reputation will be damaged if shes divorced. Besides, I can see that you still love him. Now, youve finally found him before he got married. Why dont you give him a chance to make a decision after thinking things through. Then, she looked at Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan, its up to you whether to listen to Uncle Tieshu and follow us to the tribe to see your mother. Before you disappeared, you were on your mission. Many people, including the Sixth King, are waiting for you to go back. ... It was an unavoidably unforgettable and extraordinary night. No one could fall asleep. Ye Xiaoxian and Liu Qianqian shared a room. With her mind in turmoil, Ye Xiaoxian kept her eyes open. Sleepy as Liu Qianqian was, she tried to encourage her friend not to give up and told her how hard a womans life would be without a husband. Besides, Xiao Baoshan was really a good man, although he could not remember the past. But Ye Xiaoxians mind was upied by only one thought, that he had fallen in love with another woman. After regaining his memory, would hee back to her and love her again? He had been forced by Li Hongmei to marry her and had slowly developed feelings for herter on. However, his love for Jin Xiaoyu was unforced and true. ... Xiao Baoshan should have slept with Jin Xiaoyu that night. After all, it was their wedding night. But after going back to her room, Jin Xiaoyu had locked the door and kept Xiao Baoshan out. Xiao Baoshans bedroom had also turned into a room for customers. So, he had to share a room with Xiao Tieshu and Wong Wu for the time being. Being a bodyguard for hispanions, Wong Wu had kept silent. Only now did he say to Xiao Baoshan, General Xiao, I knew you when I was in the capital, though perhaps you didnt know me. I was the Seventh Kings bodyguard. He thought you were a traitor and wanted to kill you. But it was verified that you were innocent and the imperial court also redressed the wrongs done to you. He continued expectantly, Youre a master in martial arts. Ive been looking forward to having a match with you. Xiao Baoshan was in no mood for that. He merely asked, Could you tell me more about my past? Why do some people say that Im a traitor and others say Im a hero? Wong Wu then exined all he knew about Xiao Baoshans past. He said that those people Xiao Baoshan had metst time were spies from the pce. They mighte to investigate the Sixth King and the Seventh King to see whether they were rebellious. Since Xiao Baoshan served under the Sixth King, it was natural that theyd call him a traitor. After hearing that, Xiao Baoshan finally felt somewhat relieved. He was not a traitor but a good man. Xiao Tieshu said to him, Baoshan, you really shoulde with us. We miss you very much. We have many things to do in the tribe, so we cant stay too long here. Youd better tell Miss Jin tomorrow that youre leaving. Xiao Baoshan fell silent. It was easy to say goodbye to Jin Xiaoyu as she was a reasonable woman. But he owed her too much. He had promised to marry her, which gave her such great expectation and disappointment. ... Xiao Baoshan knocked at the door and waited outside the room. Only after a long while did Jin Xiaoyue out. Her wedding dress had been reced by everyday wear, but her makeup remained and looked even thicker. Perhaps she had reapplied makeup before opening the door. Do you want to say youre leaving with your family? She came straight to the point. He nodded. The rims of her eyes became red, but she soon raised her head. Now that youve decided, just go. Congrattions! You finally found your roots and are reunited with your family and your wife. We... He wanted to say something. Were a joke, arent we? You dont belong here. It was I who forced you to marry me. I was so silly. I knew you didnt like me, but I still gave myself to you. Thankfully, were not married, otherwise life would be too heavy for me in the future. Chapter 261 - Go with Her

261. Go with Her

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan thought for a while before he said, I want to find my roots, but I owe you too much. You owe me nothing. I made the choice voluntarily, so nobody is to me. Im not a delicate or clingy woman. I wont take what doesnt belong to me. He looked gratefully at her. Do you like your wife? she asked. He fell into silence. In all honesty, he didnt know. He just felt distressed on seeing Ye Xiaoxians sorrowful face. They said that she was his wife. Although he had given her a letter of divorce, he needed to figure out the reason why he had done so. Whos prettier, her or me? Jin Xiaoyu asked. She just wanted to tease him and didnt expect him to answer. But to her surprise, he replied without hesitation, You! At that moment, she burst into tears. Then, she smiled. Ive known you for over a year and youve finally said something pleasing. ... After that, Xiao Baoshan went to Ye Xiaoxians room. Standing outside the room, he hesitated for some time before knocking at the door. He felt like his hand against the door weighed a ton, as so many thoughts were whirling around in his mind. Although he didnt recall anything, he got a sense of direction after seeing Ye Xiaoxian. It was like the duckweed on the water finally knew where to go. Although it didnt go ashore, it had hope and expectation for its future. He felt an urge to know his past, and Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions were his guides. After a while, the door was opened, revealing Ye Xiaoxians face. She looked somewhat tired with her slightly puffy and ck-ringed eyes. What is it? she asked in a t tone yet with clear anger. He said, When are you leaving? Ill go with you. Then what about your bride? She raised her brows. You havent gone through thest step in the bridal chamber, have you? He said, Ive talked to her. She thinks I should go with you. What if she doesnt want you to go? she asked deliberately. Will you then stay? He knew how furious she was and didnt exin anything. He just said, Im sorry. Her hostility suddenly disappeared because she didnt know how to vent her anger on such a man. He was always like this, mollifying her so easily. As for his apology, she didnt know to whom he said that. Anyway, she felt happy to know that he would go back with her. If he didnt do so, she would hate him. Thankfully, she hade here in time and he was willing to go with her. After a while, she asked, What about your new wife? Wont shee with you? She said she would stay here. I hope you wont regret it! After saying that, she mmed the door. When she went back to the room, Liu Qianqian teased her about her duplicity C happy inside but indifferent on the surface. ... The next day, Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions set off for the tribe. Xiao Baoshan also came out with them. He wanted to say goodbye to Jin Xiaoyu, but her room was locked. Idiot walked over and said sulkily, Miss Jin is sleeping. She asked us not to bother her. But shes prepared a horse for you to ride. Xiao Baoshan felt his heart pounding in his chest. Perhaps he was moved or perhaps he was affected by some moreplicated emotions. He wanted to say thank you, but words were powerless at this moment. Finally, he said at the door, Im sorry. Idiot said, Dont hang about here. Just have breakfast and go. Oh yes, Miss Jin said you cante back after you leave because she doesnt want to see you again. Xiao Baoshan paused. Then, he turned around and went downstairs. The breakfast was buns. When he came to the hall, Ye Xiaoxian and herpanions had been there eating. Xiao Tieshu immediately beckoned him to join them, but Ye Xiaoxian pretended not to see him. Being Ye Xiaoxians best friend, Liu Qianqian, naturally, also ignored him. After breakfast, Ye Xiaoxian and Liu Qianqian got into the carriage, Xiao Tieshu sat on the edge and Wong Wu drove the coach. Xiao Baoshan also mounted the horse prepared by Jin Xiaoyu. It was her own private horse which she loved very much and sometimes chatted with. The fact that she was willing to give the horse to him showed she still had affection for him. On horseback, he looked back towards the inn. The inn was as it had been the day before. The redness of thenterns and festoons were quite dazzling. The window to Jin Xiaoyus room was shut tight. Liu Qianqian lifted the curtain of the carriage and shouted at him, You dont want to go? We dont mind if you stay! Cracking his whip, he caught up with the carriage and rode alongside it. Liu Qianqian sat back and said to Ye Xiaoxian, Im so afraid that he might turn around. Ye Xiaoxian replied, If so, just let him go. Anyway, he can choose only one of us. Little Ye, now that hes willing to go with us, you should be nice to him. Dont be so sarcastic, or he might return to Longmen Inn on impulse. Ye Xiaoxian still looked contemptuous. He can do whatever he likes. Ho ho, if he really turns around, youll be heartbroken. Ye Xiaoxian didnt say anymore. ... The group went to Baoning city first. Wong Wu advised Xiao Baoshan to meet the two kings and Qian Qi. After all, Xiao Baoshan had been a general before disappearing, and once saved Qian Qis family. Grateful for his help, they even set up a memorial tablet for him on thest Tomb Sweeping Day. Knowing that he was back, the Sixth King hurried to hold a banquet and invited Qian Qi and his family over. Seeing him, everyone became emotional. Old Mrs. Qian even shed tears since she hadnt expected that Xiao Baoshan was still alive. She also regretted that they hadnt erged the search area, having him suffer outside for over a year. She then held Ye Xiaoxians hand in hers. Having heard about Yes deeds, she praised Ye for her capability and virtuousness and said she was a perfect match for Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan didnt remember any events or people. But from their tears and words, he could feel their sincerity and became sure of his identity as Xiao Baoshan, a hero. His duckweed-like heart was getting closer to the shore. He would soon find his true self. For the others, it was a great pity that he had lost his memory. But the Sixth King promised that he would send every well-known doctor in the state to cure Xiao Baoshan until he remembered everything. Tears rolled down Old Mrs. Qians face again. General Xiao had been such a mighty figure before. He killed enemies bravely on the battlefields and risked his life to protect us. What an awesome man he was! But now... Your Highness, if you know a good doctor, please be sure to send him over. I really dont have the heart to see a great man be... Qian Qi said to his mother, Mom, General Xiao has just lost his memory, not his abilities or noble spirit. As long as his heart of gold and martial arts remain, hell always step up at moments of crisis when our country needs him. Old Mrs. Qian wiped away her tears again. Hearing their conversation, Ye Xiaoxian felt as if she saw a Xiao Baoshan that she had never known. She was proud of him when he won the praise of the king and the general. But she didnt forgive him. Could he marry another woman just because of amnesia? Could he do so before he knew who he was? Suddenly, Old Mrs. Qian turned to Ye Xiaoxian and said, Mrs. Xiao, now that General Xiao cant remember anything, please take good care of him. Youre a couple. If you chat more with him and tell him more about the past, perhaps he can regain his memory. It was Ye Xiaoxians first time being called Mrs. Xiao. In front of so many people, she couldnt show too much grievance, so she simply replied, I see. Ill try my best. But the time they had spent together was merely one or two years. Just then, Li Chengru asked, Oh yes, how did you find him? What was he doing when you saw him? Xiao Tieshu hemmed and hawed. Liu Qianqian and Wong Wu were also silent. So, all the people looked at Ye Xiaoxian in confusion. Was Xiao Baoshans life very miserable? Ye Xiaoxian didnt want to mention the wedding in front of so many people. With dignity, she said, He was... a waiter in an inn. They sighed with relief and said there was no shame in being a waiter, as long as he was not tortured and didnt do anything harmful. ... After the banquet, Ye Xiaoxian took Xiao Baoshan back to the tribe. Those who stayed in the tribe were more than uneasy when they were waiting. A man would be happiest when he married a beloved woman. Would Xiao Baoshan go back in such a jubnt situation? If he was reluctant, would Little Ye be very disappointed and unhappy? During these days, Li Hongmei had asked Wong Mudan many times, Do you think Baoshan wille back or not? Wong Mudan wished Ye Xiaoxian well and naturally spoke for Xiao Baoshan, Yes! Little Ye is such a good wife. Baoshan wont marry that innkeeper unless hes blind. Dont worry. They will take him back. You shouldnt necessarily listen to Tieshus nonsense. He doesnt know much. Perhaps Baoshan is not going to marry anyone. But what she said to Chen Ju was totally different. A mans heart is too unpredictable. How could a man care about his previous love after having a new affair? Im so afraid that Baoshan wonte back. But at dusk, they saw a carriage approaching from the distance. Together with it was a man riding a horse. He looked exactly like Xiao Baoshan! Chapter 262 - Go and Ask Him

262. Go and Ask Him

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Li Hongmei suddenly became very excited. Look! Its Baoshan! Its really him! Little Ye, Tieshu and Wong Wu are back too. Oh my! Baoshan isnt dead! Hes not dead! The Xiaos were naturally thrilled to see Xiao Baoshan back alive. The Lius were also ted. Now that Ye Xiaoxians husband had returned, they didnt need to worry about her future life or remarriage anymore. Besides, being with a one-time general and hero, they could also hold their heads high. They would not need to worry about the local bullies because they were now much stronger than before. On the way back, Ye Xiaoxian met quite a few locals who saw this tall, robust stranger and asked who he was. Ye Xiaoxian didnt want to introduce him and pretended not to hear as she sat in the carriage, but Liu Qianqian answered with great pride, This is Little Yes husband. Humph, didnt they think it difficult for a queen bee like Little Ye to marry? Shed already had a husband, right? As such, the news that Ye Xiaoxians husband was back spread all over the tribe and also reached Taricos ears. Was that man really Little Yes husband? Hadnt he died? Tarico fell into a long silence. ... On returning, Xiao Baoshan was pulled by a crowd to sit down on a chair in the middle of a yurt. Li Hongmei was the first to cry, followed by the other Xiaos. The Lius tried their best tofort the Xiaos, saying that it was something worth celebrating that Xiao Baoshan was back. Baoshan, what have you been through? Its been so long! Why didnt you send any messages? Baoshan, do you know there was a period where I couldnt even sleep? Every time I closed my eyes, I saw you bathed in blood! Squire Liu said, Oh, Hongmei, dont ask so much. Baoshan has only juste back. Let him have a rest and drink some milk tea first. Besides, this is a moment forughter, not crying. Hearing that, Li Hongmei chuckled, though tears still ran out from time to time. ... Ye Xiaoxian was the only person who was calm and quiet. Xiao Baoshan didnt remember the past or these people, but from their cries, he knew it must have been the right decision toe back here. Hed found himself. The woman whose crying was the loudest was his mother, and there were also his sister, uncles, aunts and cousins. The oldest was his grandfather who, in contrast, looked unfriendly and stubborn. They reminded him of his dreams. In the dreams, he also lived with his mother, uncles, aunts and cousins. They were busy with their own things, living a difficult yet peaceful life. While the others huddled around in tears, Ye Xiaoxian stood to one side and just watched. Seeing this, Liu Qianqian stepped out and helped her friend exin. Aunt Hongmei, Uncle Tongshu, Baozhu, dont cry. You know, Baoshan fell off the cliff and hit his head, so he cant remember anything from before. The others were stunned by her words. Kn-knocked his head? Where? Li Hongmei stretched out her hands for Xiao Baoshans head but didnt find any wounds. Liu Qianqian said, Its been a year since then. The wound may have healed up. I figure wed better tell him who we are first. Li Hongmei wiped away her tears and asked Xiao Baoshan, Baoshan, have you really forgotten everything? He nodded. Do you remember me? Im your mom. He shook his head. She asked, What about Little Ye? Shes your wife. Do you remember her? He said, I didnt remember, but now I know her. Tears welled up in her eyes again. So... So there really is such a disorder... No wonder you... When she wanted to talk about his marriage with Jin Xiaoyu, she realized it was not the proper time to mention this. She thought shed better ask Ye Xiaoxian about itter, in private. Anyway, its not your fault. Youre a victim. A lucky one. Its okay if you cant remember now. You can take your time to regain your memories. The most important thing now is to have a good life with us and treat Little Ye well. Shes done too much for this family all these years. Xiao Baoshan had a look at Ye Xiaoxian. In theory, a widow was unavoidably disdained in this era, but the Xiaos all spoke well of her, which meant she was really a good woman and treated them well in daily life. Li Hongmei said, Ill tell you who we are. Dont forget us this time... Then, she pointed at every person present, including his sister, uncles, aunts, cousins and also the Lius. Humbly and politely, Xiao Baoshan greeted them one by one. But when he turned to Ye Xiaoxian, she looked away to avoid his gaze. It seemed her anger would remain for some time. ... After dinner, Li Hongmei asked Xiao Baoshan to have a bath and it pained her to know that he had only one suit. She went to ask Ye Xiaoxian, Did Baoshan really n to get married? Why did hee back with you? How long will he stay here? Ye Xiaoxian simply said, Go and ask him. It would be too embarrassing to ask Xiao Baoshan, so she asked Liu Qianqian the same questions. After learning about what had happened, she said, Baoshan is a sensible man. He knows how to make the right choice. Im d he didnt marry that woman. Can you believe she didnt even give him a good suit? If Baoshan married her, he would not have had a happy life. Seeing that some fabric was left over fromst year, she couldnt wait to make a robe for her son. Although there werent many yurts, she wanted to give Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian a private ce so that they could rebuild their rtionship. But Ye Xiaoxian refused it at once, saying, He almost married another woman, which means he doesnt have me in his heart now. Besides, he divorced me. I dont want to cling to him or let him take advantage of me. Mom, you should be fair. You cant make me do this because Im a woman and hes a man. Helpless, Li Hongmei decided to talk to Xiao Baoshan. He had juste out of the bathroom and had no idea where to sleep. So, Li Hongmei arranged for him to share a yurt with the kids for the time being. Walking into the yurt, Li Hongmei said apologetically, In theory, you should share a yurt with Little Ye. But you came so suddenly and we only have a few yurts, so Im sorry that you have to sleep with the children. After we buy a new yurt, you can then move and live with Little Ye. Xiao Baoshan was not really a dumb man. He asked, Little Ye is still angry with me, right? Li Hongmei paused and then replied, Shell certainly forgive you, though itll take time. She likes you the best. She began telling him a lot about Little Ye and him, such as how they got married, how they fell in love and how Little Ye had gone silent for a few days after hearing the news of his death. She said, Little Ye has done a lot for this family. You must not let her down. If you really cant remember the past, you should chat more with her. Perhaps youll regain your memory one day! ording to what she was saying, Xiao Baoshan was sure that the woman in his dreams was Ye Xiaoxian. Solemnly, he said, I see. Well... are you done with that innkeeper? Baoshan, listen to me, you must cut your rtionship with her. This is serious. Although a man can have several wives, you cant. Youve promised to Little Ye that you wouldnt have a concubine, and she also just doesnt allow that. If you marry another woman, shell never be able to forgive you. Xiao Baoshan praised her. Shes also a fiesty woman. Sure. You two often whispered on the roof before and I overheard it. Thats what you said then. Xiao Baoshan was speechless. Li Hongmei said, It doesnt matter how I heard it. Anyway, heaven knows what youve said. If you dont keep your promise, youll be struck by lightning. Understand? He nodded. He felt sorry for Jin Xiaoyu. But it would be the greatest disrespect to Ye if he married her. Li Hongmei looked up at the dark sky. You must listen to me this time. Be nice to Little Ye. Even if she snubs you, you should be unabashed about chatting with her. Dont be as dumb as before. Try to win her heart back, okay? He nodded again. ... After Li Hongmei left, Xiao Baoshany down on a mat. Like at Longmen Inn, the tribe was very quiet at night without even the sound of chirping. The sky seemed close to the earth. When he was in the inn, he often suffered from insomnia. His floating heart always made him feel uneasy. Indeed, he wanted to sleep, but he was afraid that he would dream of those who he had never seen or known. But that night, he was in a miraculous state of peace. After closing his eyes, he soon fell asleep. The dream also became clear, with everyones appearance being recognizable. He dreamed of Ye Xiaoxian making him a delicious meal, Li Hongmei sewing clothes for him and Baozhu and Baofeng reading books C one somewhatzy and the other diligent. He slept through the night and when he woke, he heard the sound of cooking utensils from outside. He got up, lifted the curtain door and saw someone cooking porridge in front of a stove. It was Little Ye. He was amazed by the sight coinciding exactly with that in his dream. Some fragments of his previous dreams shed through his mind. Involuntarily, he walked over to her. Chapter 263 - . Impeachment

263. Impeachment

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Hearing a sound behind her, Ye Xiaoxian turned around and saw Xiao Baoshan standing close by. With anger, she pulled a long face without any greeting. This made Xiao Baoshan feel a little embarrassed, but he thought of Li Hongmeis words: Even if she snubs you, you should be unabashed about chatting with her. Seeing two empty buckets next to him, he pointed at them and asked, Shall I get two buckets of water for you? Ye Xiaoxian replied in a sulk, If you like. No ones stopping you. Xiao Baoshan took a pole and hung a bucket on each end. Then, he headed for a river which he had seen yesterday. ... Ye Xiaoxian had slept rather lightly the previous night. Now, she still felt conflicted with a little excitement and a little anger. She was thinking about Liu Qianqians words which sounded reasonable. If Xiao Baoshan stayed in Longmen Inn and married Jin Xiaoyu, she would be even more furious. She had won the game temporarily, now that he was willing toe back. With him by her side, she felt somewhat safe and reassured. She had been the one to be relied on, and now, she also found a shoulder to rest her head on. But she was reluctant to give in. s, she should just take her time. After a terrible nights sleep, she had got up early to cook porridge. There were so many things to do every day that she had no time to think much. After cooking arge pot of porridge, she began making baked pancakes. After a while, Wong Mudan and Li Hongmei also got up. Seeing that Ye Xiaoxian was making breakfast alone, they also hurried over to help. Suddenly, Wong Mudan pointed towards the base of a mountain. Isnt that Baoshan? Why is he fetching water so early? Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help looking towards the mountain. When she saw his figure, her heart fluttered uncontrobly. In the vige, he had also been hardworking, fetching water and firewood, and doing any work he could see that needed doing. At the beginning of their business in the county, he had also helped her carry bean jelly to the market every day. By that point, she had begun to particrly enjoy seeing his strong and muscr back while he carried everything with ease. That had always made her heart pound wildly. To her surprise, she still had butterflies in her stomach when seeing such a scene again. Angry with herself, she shifted her gaze away from Xiao Baoshan. Baoshan, youve juste here. Why dont you take a longer rest? Li Hongmei looked worried. Xiao Baoshan put down the buckets. Its not tough work. Ive healed up. I just wanted to help Little Ye... Oh, youre fetching water for Little Ye? Youre so considerate! Li Hongmeis attitude changed in the blink of an eye. Wong Mudan was quite amazed. Ye Xiaoxian gave a wry smile. She thought of how Li Hongmei had got Xiao Baoshan and her together. Xiao Baoshan said to Ye Xiaoxian, I know you all have work to do, so I also cant stand idle. I can do anything. Little Ye, you can arrange some work for me to do. She said sourly, Of course. All of us are very busy. How could you not help out? Since youve juste here and arent familiar with most work, you can join the wood-chopping team or the camel team. Li Hongmei immediately disagreed, No, Baoshan cant join the camel team. Tarico can manage it well on his own and he has enough manpower. As I see it, Baoshan may fetch firewood or purchase materials with Squire Liu. Anyway, the camel team is not suitable for him. If he were to leave with the camel team for a month, how could he rebuild a rtionship with Ye Xiaoxian? So that day, Xiao Baoshan followed the wood-chopping team to the mountain. ... At noon, Tarico arrived. It was not just for work but also to see Xiao Baoshan. Along with some other men, Xiao Baoshan had juste back with arge bundle of firewood. Since he was tall and strong, it seemed effortless for him to do this job. In Taricos eyes, there was a trace of hostility and a hint of jealousy. This was the one who Little Ye missed; an unusual man with a handsome face and unique temperament. But Tarico didnt think himself inferior to Xiao Baoshan. Apart from being robust, a man should be a good fighter, and above all, be able to protect his woman. Although Xiao Baoshan had once been a hero, he was now merely a wood chopper. Even if Little Ye had liked him very much before, she might get tired of him after a while. There was a custom of wife snatching in the tribe. If one took a fancy to another mans wife, he could throw down the gauntlet. As long as the woman agreed, he could then take her as his own wife. Although few people used this trick, such behavior was allowed in the tribe. With envy, Tarico gulped down a jar of alcohol after returning home. ... In the capital. A great many ministers hade to wait outside the pce half an hour earlier. There was heated discussion over one thing. Beiqing attacked Heihe city again yesterday and over 1,000 of our soldiers died. How can we stop this? Beiqing has gone too far. Weve given them our northern desert, but theyre still not satisfied! ... The pce gate soon opened. In a chanting voice, a eunuch called the ministers to enter. Li Chengkun was sitting on his throne with a serious expression on his face. He looked at the ministers and asked, I believe youve learned about Beiqings attack. Do you have any suggestions? The old prime minister was first to stand up and say resolutely, Beiqing has challenged us more than once or twice. We tolerated themst month but this time theyve killed over 1,000 of our soldiers. If we dont fight back, Beiqing will think our country is weak and will be more aggressive in the future. I suggest we attack! Instantly, his proposal was seconded by another five ministers. Just then, the state preceptor also stood up. With a snort, he said, Dear schrs, do you know how to fight a war? How much manpower will it consume? How many casualties we will suffer? I dont think you know about these things. Dont ask for a war with such ease! Dare you go to the battlefield? The prime minister refuted angrily, If I were young and knew martial arts, I would go to the battlefield! Of course a war will cause casualties, but if we dont fight, Beiqing will be harsher to us! Dont you know they want to take Heihe this time? So what? the state preceptor asked. Its ournd! Our inviblend! We shouldnt yield an inch when ites to our territory! Even if it may require sacrifices, we cant allow them to offend us! The state preceptor sneered. Are you willing to send your children to the battlefield? Why not? Its a great honor to fight for the country! responded the prime minister with determination. The state preceptor turned to Li Chengkun and said, Your Majesty, I couldnt disagree more with the prime minister. In my view, we should send an envoy to make peace with Beiqing. Li Chengkun asked, What if they demand that we give up Heihe? The state preceptor replied, Then give it to them. Perhaps we can marry a princess to Beiqing and give them Heihe as her dowry. The marriage will secure the stability of our country. The prime minister flew into a rage. No! Heihe is our northern fortress and the people there are under our protection. We cant turn a blind eye to those lives. Otherwise, even if they survive, they will be marginalized, exploited and put in dire straits! The state preceptor said, Its better thanunching a war. Well lose only a city through marriage, while well suffer far worse in a war. Even if we win, well use up enormous financial resources. This is not what we want to see. The prime ministers face contorted with anger. Addled asshole! You merely want to guarantee your current position and enjoy your intimacy with the empress dowager! The peoples lives are nothing in your eyes! Youre so fatuous and selfish! You... you... The state preceptor hadnt expected him to be so blunt and asked Li Chengkun for help. Your Majesty, Im considering Daqis people, but the prime minister nders me and even Her Majesty. Shes your mother! A pure woman! How could she bear such a stigma? Please punish this rude man! The prime minister snorted, Do you think we dont know what youve done? Do you think you can be so relentless and defy thew with the trust of His Majesty and the support of the empress dowager? If Heihe is captured, youll be a sinner in Daqi! The state preceptor knelt down with a thud and cried aloud to the emperor, Your Majesty, Im only speaking my mind, and I advocate making peace so that our people wont suffer from war. But the prime minister says I collude with the empress dowager and defy thew. Thats absolute nder. Your Majesty, please do justice to my reputation! There was a sudden silence in the pce. This was an asion for everyone to air their views, but it was thoughtless for the prime minister to get the empress dowager involved. Although her affair with the state preceptor was known by all present, no one had the courage to mention this in the pce. Since the state preceptor was favored by the emperor, the prime minister was likely to be punished this time. As they had anticipated, Li Chengkun waved his hand with uncontroble rage. The prime minister is disrespectful and even nders the empress dowager. Guards! Take off his hat (the symbol of an official post) and put him in prison! The prime minister said sorrowfully, Your Majesty, you can dismiss me. You can kill me. But what we discuss today is rted to the country, to our territory! Please dontpromise this time... Quickly, he was dragged out of the pce. He was so aged that he looked like a withered leaf being pulled along by two guards. Many loyal ministers felt pitiful for him who had worked hard for Daqi for three dynasties and made great achievements. Who could have expected that he would end up like this? They hoped that the emperor could, considering his contributions, spare him after a few days of imprisonment. As the state preceptor watched the scene, he revealed an inconspicuously scornful smile. He had been looking hard for an opportunity to impeach this old man, and now hed finally found one. Chapter 264 - Princesss Suicide

264. Princesss Suicide

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio No conclusion was drawn at the morning meeting. Although some upright officials had prepared strong arguments, the treatment of the prime minister came as a great blow to them. Somewhat out-argued by the state preceptor, they gave up thest struggle. The prime minister was a tough man, and with his previous contributions he might be released after a just few days. But if the younger ones offended the emperor or the state preceptor, they would very likely be killed. After the meeting, a few officials loyal to the prime minister walked together. They didnt dare oppose the emperor in public, but now, indignation was clearly written on their faces. Beiqing is too presumptuous. They attack us when were weakest. The Fourth King sacrificed himself on the battlefield, Xiao Baoshan is said to have died of disease and Qian Qi and his family have gone to the southwest. Without these military talents, were an easy target for our enemy! Is there really nobody among us many officials who can lead the troops? I dont believe so. Our emperor has juste to power. Its likely that he wants to secure his throne by avoiding war. The most wicked is the state preceptor. He doesnt care about people, merely his own enjoyment. What he wants is to continue his materialistic life. As for the border area, he doesnt give it a shit! Shh, walls have ears. We all know about this, but dont let anyone else hear. It maynd us in prison. Oh dear! The young officials were all greatly discouraged. ... At the same time, the emperor was talking alone with the state preceptor. Dont you really think that we should fight against Beiqing? The state preceptor waved his hand. No, Your Majesty. The reason for this is twofold. Firstly, its been little over one year since you came to the throne, meaning that your reins of power are not firm enough. I know those loyal to the prime minister are waiting tough at you. Its notte tounch war after we rece those rebellious with our own people. Secondly, there is no qualified general avable to lead the troops. Your Majesty, a reckless war may result in not only a heavy defeat but empty coffers. This is thest solution we can resort to. Li Chengkun contemted it for a long time. Finally, he said, If so, please go to Beiqing and make peace with them. If they agree, confer the title of Ningan (meaning peace) upon a princess and marry her to Beiqing with Heihe city as her dowry. Yes. The proposal shall be made by you. Besides, I dont trust anyone else. Youre high-powered and can represent Daqi. Youre the best suited to carry out this mission. The state preceptors eyes rolled quickly as he tried to find an excuse. This is rted to our national security. Arent you willing to do this task? Li Chengkun asked. The state preceptor replied hurriedly, Yes, I am willing. This is... my responsibility. Then hurry up and set off. I see, Your Majesty. ... After the discussion with the emperor, the state preceptor walked off in annoyance to the rear of the pce. This time, he strode into her bedroom without any effort to hide his intention. At that moment, she was ying with her Persian cat. Astonished by his sudden visit, she asked with worry, Whats wrong? Who upset you? And why didnt you inform me before you came here? Humph! He sat down and gulped down a cup of water. It was toote for her to stop him. She had just given that water to the cat. But it was not a big deal. What was done could not be undone, and it was not poisonous. It pissed me off that His Majesty asked me to go to Beiqing! He didnt give me any chance to decline it! he said furiously. Huh? But youre old. Itll be torture for you to go so far. He is indeed torturing me, isnt he? Whether I seed or not, Ill take the me for him. If I fail, Ill be a sinner and the officials will say His Majesty is deluded because of me. If I make it, Ill also get no benefits for many oppose making peace. In brief, Im the scapegoat. Feeling his rage, she ran her hand on his back to make him feel better. At the same time, she thought: The emperor is quite shrewd, but youre indeed his best scapegoat. After all, she was the empress dowager. Although she had an affair with the state preceptor, she certainly stood by the imperial courts side when facing such things. Take it easy. Dont be angry. Perhaps he just couldnt find a more suitable candidate. Anyway, the task needs to be done, right? Its said the fur coats in Beiqing are pretty and cold-resistant. Can you get one for me there? He asked, Arent you worried that I wonte back? What if I die halfway or get killed by the enemies there? How could that be? Even if two countries fight against each other, they dont hurt envoys. Beiqing wont kill you. Dont worry. Oh yes, Ive just learned a new dance. Do you want to see? Only then did his face soften a bit. Who did you learn from? he asked. From some dancers of course. He gave her hand a stroke. Why did you learn this? Its to please you. Otherwise I wouldnt have learned such a thing. All right, then dance for me... ... The next day, the state preceptor left for Beiqing. The prime minister was still in prison. His son, also being an official, went to the pce a few times but didnt have a chance to meet the emperor. Apart from him, some other officials also begged the emperor via letters to release the prime minister, since he was too old to suffer the bleakness in the prison and shouldnt be treated this way considering his contributions. However, the emperor gave them no response. During those days, rumors spread all over the capital that the emperor had been against the prime minister and wanted to kill him this time. Half a monthter, the state preceptor returned with good news that Beiqing had agreed to be connected with Daqi through marriage. Those who advocatedunching war were all discouraged. They thought the emperor was too petty-minded and easily cheated by the state preceptor. Undoubtedly, the state preceptor was the biggest target under public criticism. But he didnt care about that. After smoothlypleting his task, he went to the rear pce again. With his sess, he became even more arrogant. He kept speaking ill of the prime minister and stressing the rtionship between the two countries, how severe the situation was and what Beiqing might do if a war wasunched. He concluded that, anyway, a war was utterly unwise. ... ording to the negotiation, they had to marry a princess to Beiqing. In recent years, Beiqingsbat capability had been improved and its forces and horses were bing stronger. However, its living conditions stillgged far behind Daqis. The northern desert was windy and sandy throughout all four seasons, so no one wanted to go there. Although Li Chengkun had not many sons, he had quite a few daughters. Besides, it didnt necessarily have to be one of his daughters. Any princess would be fine. The one chosen was his uncles granddaughter Li Xiaoyue, a 16-year-old woman. She was then conferred with the title Ningan Princess. On learning the news, she fainted. The emperor of Beiqing was over 50, even older than her grandfather. Shed rather die than marry an old man. She cried every day, begging Li Chengkun to have mercy on her. But no one could help her. Not even her family. Her parents wet their faces with tears every day, helpless over their daughters fate. Li Xiaoyue became hollow-eyed from weeping. When the prime minister learned about this in the prison, he scolded for a few days. Were a big country, but now our emperor wants to send a little woman to be humiliated! Why is there no mercy? What kind of country were in? What kind of fatuous emperor will do this kind of thing? His words spread among officials and reached the emperors ears. The state preceptor said, Your Majesty, the prime minister said youre a fatuous leader. This is a serious offense. You should sentence him and his family to death, Your Majesty! The officials were scared into trembling. Someone stepped out to beg for the prime minister, saying that those were just his angry words, not to be taken seriously. The state preceptor pointed at the official. Youre speaking for him? Do you think the same as he does? The official was terrified and speechless. Li Chengkun waved his hand. The state preceptor is right. Here, I sentence the prime minister and his family to death! For a moment, there was a deafening silence. When Li Xiaoyue was forced to sit on a bridal sedan chair, she cried so loudly that people along the street heard it. The matchmaker could only drug her to put her in aa. That day, the prime minister and his family were taken to the Meridian Gate where they would be beheaded. He was called Xun Jianan. When he and his family were about to be killed, many men rushed over from all directions and fought against the government forces. Finally, they saved Xun Jianan and his youngest grandson Little Xun. Then, they left as fast as they hade. ... At the same time, Li Xiaoyue also left the city from the northern gate. The drug left her unconscious until the evening. By then, she was in despair on finding that she was so far from the capital. She didnt know what kind of life was waiting for her in Beiqing. The old emperor there was said to be bloodthirsty, cruel to women and especially addicted to torturing young women. She also heard that, a dozen years ago, a princess had died two months after marrying him. Would she have a good life there? The more she thought about it, the angrier she became. Secretly, she swore that she would make Daqi and Li Chengkun pay the price. ... Two dayster, they eventually reached the destination. That night, the matchmaker asked Li Xiaoyue to go out for dinner. She was pleased that Li Xiaoyue became quiet these two days and said to the others, Women usually struggle at the very beginning, but they ept their fates when they realize that resistance is futile. Its nothing bad to marry a man in Beiqing. Anyway, her husband will be an emperor. In Daqi, she can merely marry a minister of much lower status. Chapter 265 - Xiao Baoshan and the Camel Team

265. Xiao Baoshan and the Camel Team

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Li Xiaoyue remained silent. Why didnt this matchmaker marry an old man if it was really that good? Li Xiaoyue was quiet when she had dinner. At bedtime, she told the maids that she suffered from insomnia these days and wanted to sleep alone that night. The next day, when the matchmaker pushed open the door, she was so scared by what she saw that she screamed. Inside the room, the princesss legs hung in midair, her tongue was sticking out and her eyelids had also be pale. She was already dead. The, the princess has hanged herself! Shes dead! A group of people hurried over. When the emperor of Beiqing learned about this, he flew into a rage and seriously doubted Daqis sincerity. As a result, he sent troops to attack Heihe city and took it within half a month. Irritated, Li Chengkun and the state preceptor kept cursing Li Xiaoyue. They even degraded her family asmoners and put them in prison. ... When the news reached Baoning city, it had been half a month. Li Chengyi and Li Chengru fell into silence. Qian Qi couldnt help cursing Li Chengkun for being fatuous and the state preceptor for damaging national interest by suggesting peace-making with Beiqing. He regretted that he was not in the capital. If he was, he would definitelyunch an attack and protect thend. Old Mrs. Qian, a wise woman, analyzed the situation. Its because our emperor doesnt want to fight that things be like this. If he wants, no one can stop him. The prime minister and that brave princess are the victims in this incident. This old man has been loyal to the country, but now we dont even know whether hes alive or dead. I hope he and his grandson are blessed ande back safe. Qian Qi said, Its said they were saved by many good men, but the others were all... He must have a hard time now. I wish he can live on for the sake of his grandson. Old Mrs. Qian heaved a long sigh. If things go on like this, our country will split sooner orter. The war in the north must have put people in misery and made them angry. ... In the Tianshan tribe. Everything was still peaceful with blue skies, white clouds, snow-covered mountains and lush grass. People were busy herding goats, raising cattle or doing something else, which made life full and happy. The war in the north didnt affect them at all. As usual, they did business and strengthened the camel team. After a few business trips, they had earned much money for the Sixth King. As such, Baoning city suddenly became prosperous. Theck of subsidies for refugees was also filled up. There was even a surplus. Farsighted, Li Chengyi saw the big picture and asked Li Chengru and Qian Qi over one day. As you know, the north is in a mess now. Beiqing has taken one city. Although were far from there, I think we should take precautions. What do you think? Li Chengru had no interest in national affairs. He simply detested Li Chengkun who was so weak, shameless and despicable to make a woman protect his interest. So he was on Li Chengyis side. If thats necessary, then do it. Ill try my best to assist you in funding or some other aspects. Li Chengyi then looked at Qian Qi. What about you, General Qian? Qian Qi said, Your Highness, do you mean... strengthening our military forces? If so, I think its a good idea. Although the south to Daqi seems peaceful, if Hongyan attacks us again, we wont have enough forces to fight against it. Besides, if the northern enemies move toward us, we must prepare well for that. By no means should we be bullied by them! He continued, But we must do everything carefully and secretly. We cant let spies know about our n. Although the emperor allows us to station here, I know hes sent many spies here to monitor us as to whether were raising troops. Li Chengyi replied, Yes, we must do it secretly. General Qian, I want to hand over the mission to you. Please build an army of elites. Quality first. As for those spies, Ill handle them. I wont give him any chance to bring the news to Li Chengkun. Qian Qi took the mission and promised he wouldnt fail the Sixth Kings trust. Then, he added, To build a strong army, I need someones help. Thats Xiao Baoshan. He can improve our efficiency greatly, but... his amnesia hasnt healed up. ... In the blink of an eye, Xiao Baoshan had been in Tianshan tribe for two months. These days, he had been doing unskilled work like chopping firewood and feeding the horses and camels. Sometimes, he also chatted with Ye Xiaoxian. But their rtionship had been lukewarm. Ye Xiaoxian treated him the same way as she treated others. Well, to be exact, she was polite to anyone else. But facing Xiao Baoshan, she was always bad-tempered and unfriendly no matter what he said. He was more than helpless about that. Worried, Li Hongmei proposed that Xiao Baoshan go with the camel team once. A couple might feel nothing when they spent a great deal of time together, but when they were separated, they would miss each other very much. Anyway, it was worth a shot. So, she said to Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, Baoshan has been back for two months, but he hasnt thought of anything. What about letting him follow the camel team to Beihui city. Its prosperous there. Perhaps he can regain a little of his memories. Ye Xiaoxian didnt oppose it. I have no objection. He can go if he wants. Okay. Ill talk to him. Li Hongmei thought: Let me see if youll miss my son in a month! Then, she told Xiao Baoshan to follow the camel team. She said, Women all like capable men. If you always do these trifle things, she may look down upon you one day. Through this journey, you can not only broaden your horizons but also... Anyway, shell miss you when she cant see you. In fact, Xiao Baoshan was also interested in the camel team and wanted to try it, so he agreed immediately. Li Hongmei said, Ill tell Tarico about this. Oh yes, remember to buy a small gift for Little Ye in Beihui city and give it to her. Shell like it. Then, she discretely gave him a silver tael. Xiao Baoshan nodded and promised he would finish the task. ... Wong Mudan happened to look their way when Li Hongmei gave her son the money. But she pretended that she hadnt seen it. She walked over and dragged Li Hongmei to a side. Doesnt Little Ye forgive Baoshan? No. She says she doesnt want a forced love. s! Thats not forced at all. Theyre a couple, arent they? If Wong Mudan had still been that same vige woman, she would certainly have cursed Ye Xiaoxian for being unreasonable and putting on airs before her husband. But after all these days, she knew how stubborn Ye Xiaoxian was. No one could stop this woman from doing what she wanted. Wong Mudan let out a sigh. Perhaps its time to be tougher. Just do as you once did to match them. Li Hongmei said immediately, No, no, I cant. If I do that, Little Ye will hate me. Baoshan also doesnt like to be treated this way. He was once a general. If I make him do this kind of thing, he may cut the rtionship with me. Wong Mudan sighed again. Parents are parents, worrying about everything that even includes the young couples emotional problem. But this is not their fault. We cant me Little Ye. If I know Tieshu wants to marry another woman, Ill also be angry. But we should still try to persuade Little Ye. If she pushes Baoshan away, he may marry that coquette again. ... When the camel team was ready to set off, Li Hongmei took Xiao Baoshan there and told Tarico about her arrangement. She asked Tarico to take good care of her son for he was a neer. Tarico didnt show any objection. After all, she was Ye Xiaoxians mother-inw, someone he respected. He said faintly, Okay. But we have our rules and its dangerous in the desert, so you must follow what I say. Humbly, Xiao Baoshan promised he would do as Tarico said. Then, the camel team set off. As a new member, Xiao Baoshan was arranged to sit on thest camel in the team. Some young men could tell from Taricos attitude that he didnt like Xiao Baoshan, so they were also indifferent to this man. Only Wong Wen and Wong Wu were friendly to Xiao Baoshan because they knew his past. It was a blessing that he had theirpany, otherwise he would have felt marginalized and lonely the entire way. For example, Tarico didnt give Xiao Baoshan a tent at night with the excuse that he hadnt brought enough tents. He said in an apologetic tone, Im so sorry. I forgot that you would join us, so I didnt prepare yours. Could you please guard for us? If you feel cold at night, you can have a rest in our tents. Xiao Baoshan knew it was intentional, but he didnt fly into a fury. Instead, he replied peacefully, Okay. However, Wong Wen and Wong Wu instantly invited him to their tent. The space was just right for the three of them, as long as they huddled together. The bowl was also not prepared. Tarico exined that he forgot to ask Mcginon, who was responsible for taking bowls, to get one more. Mcginon apologized hastily, saying that he would buy one for Xiao Baoshan after they arrived at Beihui city. As such, Xiao Baoshan could only wait for Wong Wus bowl. After Wong Wu finished the meal, Xiao Baoshan washed the bowl and then used it for a lonely supper. Chapter 266 - Hairpin, Gift, Woman?

266. Hairpin, Gift, Woman?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan was thest one to eat. There was no meat, only some pieces of vegetables left in the te. But Xiao Baoshan didnt lose his temper, instead, he still remained calm and acted as if nothing was wrong. Wang Wu couldnt stand it any longer. He tried to intercede with Tarico, but was stopped by Xiao Baoshan. He didnt want to cause trouble for anybody, after all, nobody had forced him to follow the camel caravan. Tarico was just trying to provoke Xiao Baoshan in order to plough around his ins and outs. But when he saw that Xiao Baoshan didnt seem to care about anything, he just gave up doing so. It felt like a rock hitting on a pile of cotton; there was no aggressive response. ...... When they arrived at Beihui city, Xiao Baoshan was arranged to live with the two brothers, Wang Wen and Wang Wu. Xiao Baoshan didnt know much about business and hadnt participated in making deals. Seeing how bustling the city was, he just decided to tour around the city. As he strolled around, he got this feeling of deja vu. He felt that he had been to this kind of busy street before. He knew which ones were teahouses and which ones were restaurants. When he saw some snacks on the street, he could also name them out. Later, he entered a teahouse and ordered a pot of tea and a snack. At this time, an old man and a young man were singing about current affairs in the teahouse. The old man was acting as an emperor, the young man was a minister. The minister was offering advice to the emperor, but the emperor was irritated and wanted to exterminate the ministers whole kindred. At first, Xiao Baoshan just listened quietly. This kind of things happens in every dynasty throughout the history. Its not surprising at all. However, after they finished the performance, many people were cheering, even some people tipped the performers. Xiao Baoshan had no money to spare, so he didnt tip them. After the performers left, Xiao Baoshan overheard the discussion from people in the next table: Humph, the current imperial court is too weak. The enemies have already invaded our territory, the f**king emperor is still hesitating to fight. Not only that, he even killed the prime ministers whole family! Exactly! At the beginning, he was being kind and fair, pardoning this one and that. We all thought that he was a great emperor. But now you see, the security of the northern region had to count on a woman! Lower your voice! The government might arrest you for your words. Why would I be afraid? There are so many righteous men out there protecting the prime minister and his grandson. I did nothing butining. ... Now Xiao Baoshan understood that the performers were not singing about the past, instead, they were suggesting what was happening now. The guests in this teahouse seemed to be particrly just and brave. They were even willing to stand up for loyal minister. After a while, he heard someone say, I heard that the Emperor actually wants to fight, but because of the current situation, he couldnt fight. Now our country isck of good general. After the Fourth King passed away, General Xiao Baoshan was framed as a rebel. Even though his name is cleared now, he will definitely not serve the court anymore. Besides, the Emperor will not dare to grant him power. Also, for General Qian and his family, they are now guarding the northwestern border. There is no skillful general left. When Xiao Baoshan heard someone mention his name, he started to pay more attention to the conversation. He knew that these people must be talking about him, as Wang Wu had mentioned this to him before. Also when they were in Baoning city, the Sixth King and the Seventh King also brought this up to him. Now someone else sighed and said, As ordinary citizens, we dont have much clue of this matter. We say that we have no generals in the court. But arent the generals selected from themon soldiers? The imperial court collects so much taxes every year, and cant train one or two generals to lead the army? Who would believe that? Lets just say the imperial court is useless. Now that the Heihe city is lost. I dont know if Beiqing will continue to march south. If they march south, it wont be long before they reach the capital. s, the imperial court doesnt recruit new soldiers. If it does, we can still answer the call and join the army so that we dont have to just sit in the teahouse andin. ... Xiao Baoshan fell into his thoughts. ...... He went out for a stroll again. When he past by a stall, he immediately was attracted by a emerald hairpin. As far as he remembered, he seemed to have bought a emerald and pearl hairpin before. He just couldnt recall when. Lord, do you want a hairpin? You have a good taste. This one was newly made. Check the quality and material. Its the best. Whether you want to give it to your wife or your lover, you would be appreciated. Or you can also give it to your mother, it is suitable for all ages... The owner of the stall greeted Xiao Baoshan enthusiastically. Xiao Baoshan then asked the price of the hairpin. The owner showed him five fingers and said, 5 taels. Xiao Baoshan only had one tael of silver on him. He said, I dont have enough money. Sorry about that. Then how much do you have? There was only one tael given by Li Hongmei. He had just spent 20 wen for the tea. He said, I have 900 wen. Ok, 900 wen will work. Just give me some change. It is thest hairpin, otherwise it wont be this cheap. This meant that the price had dropped by more than five times. Xiao Baoshan didnt bargain. He paid and left. He looked at the hairpin as he walked. Suddenly, some memory pieces popped up in his mind: He once gave such a hairpin to a woman, and that woman should be Ye Xiaoxian. He didnt remember exactly what had happened, but he remembered the feeling of giving the hairpin. He was nervous, excited, unsettling. He was worried that she might not like it, and worried that he was too deliberate, so he bought two other gifts and gave them to his mother and sister, which irritated the woman. No wonder before I came, mother had asked me to only buy the gift for the woman only, not for anyone else. ...... Xiao Baoshan carried the hairpin and went back to the inn, At the entrance, he happened to bump into Tarico and his brothers who just finished counting and were going out to eat now. Tarico suddenly looked unhappy when he saw the hairpin in Xiao Baoshans hand. Mcginon asked, Hairpin? Gift? Woman? Xiao Baoshan understood what Mcginon meant, so he nodded. Tarico patted Mcginon on the shoulder and said, Its not your business. Lets go eat now! Mcginon knew that Tarico didnt like Xiao Baoshan, so he didnt dare to ask more questions. He just followed Tarico and left. Tarico and the others went to a small restaurant. He asked for a pot of wine and started drinking by himself. Mcginon and the others knew that Tarico was not happy, and it was because of Ye Xiaoxian. Tarico had treated Ye Xiaoxiao so well before. Although he didnt make it clear, everyone could still tell that Tarico was fond of Ye Xiaoxian. And now, her husband came back. How could Tarico not be angry? Even though Xiao Baoshan didnt rememeber anything, he was not dumb. He understood why Tarico was picking on him. Ye Xiaoxian was an excellent woman. Both the Xiao family and the Liu family praised her; the Sixth King and the Sixth Imperial Concubine also praised her for being so capable; the Seventh King also seemed to know her well. It was not surprising that Tarico liked her. Xiao Baoshans heart started beating fast again. Chapter 267 - Bandits

267. Bandits

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Battlefield. The gunpowder smoke curled over with deafening gongs and resounding arms. The sky was covered by thick smoke, deathly-sullen like the scene before the storm. However, for some reason, the deafening sounds gradually weakened and turned into painful howls. Being attacked front and rear, they were unable to resist. Desperately, what they could do was only watching theirrades being killed one by one. Xiao Baoshan also got stabbed. He woke up, and then he was soaked with cold sweat. It was in the middle of the night. After Xiao Baoshan woke up, he just sat on the bed in trance with some scenes on the battlefield popping up in his mind now and then. That was him. He was sure it was him. It was his real experience. In that incident, almost everyone died. He survived, and then he was turned into a traitor. Then... Then, he lived with a girl. It was little Ye. However, he only remembered that. He would rather forget. Why did God let him pick up the most painful part? He couldnt sleep anymore. He only held the greence and waited for the day. ...... Tianshan tribe. Ye Xiaoxian was living as usual. However, these few days, she felt her heart sink. A month ago, Xiao Baoshan often followed her to help her. She prepared the meals and he carried water. She marinated beef and he helped her carry baskets. He would also do some simple carpentry work in front of her, making simple stools and tables. Even though she ignored him, she would always be able to see him as long as she turned aside. Now that she couldnt see him, she suddenly didnt get used to it. She was still thinking about whether he had a different heart with his team at this time. Could it be that he had no patience and didnt want to be by her side? Could he have thought of Jing Xiaoyu halfway and wanted to find her? It wasnt until she had no intention of overhearing the conversation between Li Hongmei and Wang Mudan that she realized that Li Hongmei had deliberately let him go out and said that she would miss him after a long separation. After Ye Xiaoxian knew the reason, she got a mixed feeling. She had to admit that what Li Hongmei had done would work to some degree. Because now Xiao Baoshan wasnt around, she suddenly felt a little unustomed. She ignored him before, but that didnt mean she didnt want to see him. In short, she felt that it was very contradictory. Ye Xiaoxian was a bit absent-minded. She was cutting beef at this time so she identally cut herself. Gosh! She put down the knife and clenched her fingers. Blood came out. She suddenly panicked. Apart from the year when she first became a cook, she would asionally cut her hands off, but in the past few years, she had never done that again. She was a Five Star Chef yet cut herself. It would be strange if she didnt getughed at. She could even cut tofu into flowers with her eyes closed, not to mention cutting beef that didnt need special skills at all. Therefore, she had an unknown sense of fear. Then she thought of Xiao Baoshan. Was it dangerous for him to leave? ...... Today was the third day when the caravan drove on the desert. It had already gone deep into the desert. What came into eyes was endless sand. Xiao Baoshan still walked behind. There was no bowl when he came, but now there was a bowl. He could eat with the guy, but because of Taricos rejection, he was more neglected now than when he came. Wang Wen and Wang Wu wanted to talk to Tarico, but they were stopped by Xiao Baoshan himself. There was no need to talk with them because of this small matter. If everyone didnt like him, then naturally there was a reason for not liking him. So it was unnecessary to force to get along well deliberately. However, todays desert seemed to have hidden risks. The wind wasnt strong and it was very hot. The ce where they rested was a sand dune zone, which categorized to the Yardangndform. The field of view was not wide, and this kind of ce often had bandits lurking inside. When the caravan passed by here, they would pass quickly and try not to stay here. However, for some reason, Tarico insisted on resting here, saying that this ce was cool. Besides, they had traveled so many times, and they had never met any bandits. They had even beaten wolves. What were they afraid of? The young fellows of the tribe naturally listened to Tarico, and as long as Tarico let them rest, they just rested. Xiao Baoshan also didnt say anything. He was quite ignored by them, so just listening to the arrangement was fine. Those people sat down and set up the cooking bench. They took out the water from the bucket and poured it into the pot. Then the next step was to make the fire and make the soup. This group of people was not frugal. As long as they had some money on their hands, they would buy things in Beihui city City and they would also make merry in joyhouses. When they were waiting for water to boil, they were discussing which beautiful girls were in the house and also which restaurants the food was delicious. Tarico also went with them. He had been single for so many years. The first time he came to the joyhouse, there were girls who served him, but when he came back, he found it uninteresting. They were just ying with him. As long as they were paid, they were quite hospitable. While the moment the time was over, they changed faces even faster than turning pages, as if there were another soul inside. Though, they didnt forget to let hime again. It was too boring. He leaned against the sand dune behind him, listening to young fellows chatter. And the more exciting the discussion was, the more restless he felt. The water in the pot was boiling and steaming. When he breathed a sigh of relief, Tarico suddenly remembered that he had bought some snakes. He nned to take the snacks out and share them with his brothers. However, just after changing his position, an arrow suddenly hit the spot where he was lying. Fortunately, he turned around quickly enough to avoid it, otherwise he would have been hit by the arrow now. Watch out! Theres someone attacking us! Tarico shouted while taking his arrows. The others were panicking too. Quite a few more shots ensued. Xiao Baoshan responded. He grabbed a match and waved it at the arrows. Then a few arrows were stuck on the match. He took off the arrows from above and threw it out with his hand randomly. Then there was a scream from afar! Everyone was surprised that without a bow, why he could still hit the enemy? Hurry up,e behind the camel! Xiao Baoshan shouted at them. No! Tarico refused, Camels are the most expensive thing. If they die, our losses will be heavy! Furthermore, without camels, they wouldnt be able to leave the desert. At this time, Xiao Baoshan wasnt as gentle as usual. He ordered again, Hide behind the camel! Then he asked Wang Wen and Wang Wu to block the arrow for the time being and he took out a cloth from one of the camels and quickly unfolded it. Then he motioned Wang Wen and Wang Wu, Come on, pull the cloth away! Wang Wen and Wang Wu got his idea. The goal of Xiao Baoshan was to block arrows. Although the cloth wasnt thick, it was long enough. If gone, they could just take a new one again. However, they still could not hold on for long. They didnt know how many people the other party had and how many arrows they had. What if they couldnt hold on? But Wang Wen and Wang Wu couldnt care so much. Because Xiao Baoshan was quite confident and convinced at this moment, when he ordered, they felt that he was a general who could suppress everyone present. The two of them quickly spread the cloth and used their martial art to spin the cloth quickly, so as to block more arrows. At this moment, something that shocked them had happened: Xiao Baoshan suddenly jumped up and quickly climbed up the hill. He was going deep into the enemys territory! Now it was the bandits who attacked them. This batch of bandits had long been wary of them, just they didnt get the chance. Now they chose to rest here, which created a golden opportunity for them. Therefore, when they were resting, they secretly crawled over and upied the high ground. There were a total of 30 bandits. As long as they seeded this time, they wouldnt have to worry about their food for a year. The favorable terrain here did them a big favor. No matter how many people the team had, even if they had some masters, it was difficult for them to resist the arrow rain. Yet, they didnt expect that when the two men used cloth to block the arrows, a shadow suddenly rushed over. The bandits leader immediately ordered everyone to aim the arrows at Xiao Baoshan. However, Xiao Baoshan was swift in movement. In an instant, he rushed to the nearest bandit and snatched the knife in his hand. Within a blink, the bandits throat was cut open. Next was the second and third. The bandits were stunned for a moment, and they started shooting arrows again. After Xiao Baoshan rushed up, he also gave Tarico some time. Tarico was not willing to be weak, but he also rushed up the hill and shot at the bandits with arrows in his hands. Bows and arrows had some advantages in a distance, so they might not be able to get close. On the other side, this group of bandits were not a match for Xiao Baoshan as he was very fast, and the skills were very high. One knife, one life and he hadnt missed yet. Bandits were not the kind of people who never obbeyed thew. They were just all gangsters, and could be solved without giving them a second chance. When Xiao Baoshan was killing, he still remembered the dream he hadst night. In the dream, he was also killing people like this. When he thought about those dead brothers, his eyes almost turned red. Among the howls, the bandits fell down one after another without a single survivor. While Xiao Baoshan stood on the sand dune covered with blood, he looked like a stiff stone statue. The people below looked at the Xiao Baoshan in shock, speechless. Wang Wen and Wang Wu had known the name of Xiao Baoshan before, but they had only heard of it and had not seen it with their own eyes. Now that they saw how strong Xiao Baoshan was, they were also stunned. No wonder he used to have great reputation. No wonder everyone said that they had no generals as Beiqing Country was invading. What was general demeanor? It should be like Xiao Baoshan. In the current imperial court, they really couldnt think of a second person who could be as decisive and courageous as him and not afraid of death. Tarico and the others stayed stunned for a long time. It was only now that they understood how childish their previous provocation and neglect of Xiao Baoshan was. In other words, Xiao Baoshan didnt care about it. If he wanted to haggle over with them, they would have already be ashes. Momentster, Xiao Baoshan came down from the sand dune. The blood on his body made him look more horrible. They took a step back unconsciously, but Tarico reacted first. Xiao Baoshan was not an enemy but a fellow with them. You... are you alright? Tarico asked in surprise. In fact, Xiao Baoshan got shot by arrows twice. Chapter 268 - He Got Shot by Arrows Twice

268. He Got Shot by Arrows Twice

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio With such a dense arrow rain and offensive attack, it was impossible to dodge all. However, it seemed Xiao Baoshan was not injured at all. After he walked over, he first picked up some rags and pulled the arrows out of his body. Then he nced at Wang Wen to motion him toe over and bind up his wounds. Tarico remembered that there were some medicinal herbs that he had bought in Central in on the back of the camel. He said immediately, Wait a minute, there are some herbs that help stop bleeding. Ill go get them. Tarico applied some medical balm on Xiao Baoshans wound. Looking at the wound again, Tarico took another breath. The arrowhead of the Bandits might not be as good as the soldiers, but it was also very sharp. Once got shot, one would get deep round wounds and bleeing heavily. Most people would have already been howling. However, the reaction of Xiao Baoshan was like being bitten by mosquitoes, even without humming. Tarico wondered if he was still human. ...... On the way back, Xiao Baoshans status suddenly rose. Everyone surrounded him and was willing to do anything for him. As the desert conditions were terrible, everyone was worried if his wounds would get worse. At first, it was as though there were nothing wrong with Xiao Baoshan but in thest two days, he got paler. Once, Tarico found that his condition did not improved at all. Well, it would be a miracle if he got better in such a terrible desert condition. Therefore, Tarico sped up his speed. Now, what was a must was to return to the tribe and heal his wounds. ...... Ye Xiaoxians eyes had been twitching for several days. She thought she was the only one who was like this, but she didnt expect that one night, Li Hongmei would also say, Why is my eye always twicthing? Quite strange, did something happen to Xiao Baoshan? Unexpectedly, Xiao Baozhu also echoed, Me too. My eyes are twitching. Its a bad omen. Of course, Xiao Baozhu was lying. She knew about Li Hongmeis n, so she wanted to make Ye Xiaoxian panicked and even care more about Xiao Baoshan so that after Xiao Baoshan came back, Ye Xiaoxian might treat her brother better. But Li Hongmei was telling the truth. She asked Xiao Baozhu to take a closer look. When Xiao Baozhu saw her eyes were really twtiching, she added, Mom, your left eye is twitching. It would be good news. After all, left eye means fortune and right eye means disaster. Are you sure? But what I heard ispletely contrary. Of course, I couldnt be wrong. There was a period of time when my right eye kept twitching, and then those gangsters came. ... Ye Xiaoxian was even more flustered when she heard the two of them argued heatedly. She felt like something was going to happen. ...... A new day began. Ye Xiaoxian was working outside. Later, a girl called AZhi came over to inform her that a guest was here and asked her to go back to receive the guest. A guest? Ye Xiaoxian asked, Is it the Seventh King? Apart from Li Chengru, she didnt expect anyone else woulde. AZhi replied, No, its two middle-aged men. They originally wanted to meet your husband, but isnt he in the tribe? So they came to meet you. When she heard the word husband, Ye Xiaoxian was flustered more. She thought that could it really be as the saying went that distance made hearts grow fonder? After all, now she was really worried about Xiao Baoshan. ...... When Ye Xiaoxian returned to the yurt, she saw Qian Qi and a middle-aged man. General Qian? She was surprised. Why was Qian Qi here? She didnt know if she should be courteous. After all, bowing was a must etiquette when meeting any officials in the ancient time. Qian Qi hurriedly refused her bowing and then said to Ye Xiaoxian, Last time we met, the Sixth King promised that he would find a doctor for General Xiao. So this is the doctor he found. Coincidentally, his surname is also Xiao. You can call him Dr. Xiao. He has treated patients with simr symptoms before. Oh, Ye Xiaoxian immediately greeted the doctor. Dr. Xiao looked around 40 years old with glossy skin and energetic voice, which was like some very excellent Chinese doctors in modern times. Just judging from his appearance, Ye Xiaoxian felt that he should have some tricks. Qian Qi added, I originally wanted to talk to General Xiao about something. Since General Xiao is not in the tribe now, I wille back another day. However, Dr. Xiao will stay here to wait for General Xiao. Moreover, Dr. Xiao is interested in the herbs on the Tianshan tribes side. He wants to take this time to pick up some herbs. So I have to bother you to receive him and give him a private yurt. Ye Xiaoxian got his ideas. After receiving both Qianqi and Dr. Xiao, Ye Xiaoxian asked for a new yurt, intending to build it up for Dr. Xiao. Squire Liu took charge of their resources and ounts and they needed to register and settle with Squire Liu. After Li Hongmei found out, she also followed behind and said to Ye Xiaoxian and Squire Liu, How about taking out two yurts? Why two? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Of course for you and Xiao Baoshan. You are husband and wife, so naturally you have to live together. Now that our conditions are good, Qianqian and Jia Zhenbo can also share one yurt. There are also your eldest uncle and his wife, third uncle and third aunt. You cant always live together with us. And Xiao Baoshan also cant stay with his grandfather all the time. Your grandfather snored in the middle of the night and Xiao Baoshan always cant sleep well. After that, Li Hongmei motioned at Squire Liu again. Squire Liu was surprised and immediately said, Then, just take two yurts. Otherwise, others should say that Im being partial and only prepare rooms for Qianqian and Zhenbo, but not for you two. Uh, we both... Ye Xiaoxian wanted to exin. They hadnt reconciled yet, and she had been put away. But Squire Liu said, Anyway. I have to set up a yurt for you. You can live as you please. Li Hongmei was overjoyed. She took the yurt and thanked Squire Liu. Then, she found someone to build a yurt in full of joy. Ye Xiaoxian feel helpless again. She thought, If you want to, then just let them do it. Anyway, she wouldnt step in the new yurt, so she still had to sleep in Li Hongmeis yurt at night, just letting Xiao Baoshan sleep alone. ...... After the yurt was set up, Dr. Xiao settled in. As soon as Dr. Xiao came to the tribe, he liked this ce very much. It was said that thend here was full of resources and talents, and thendscape was a thousand times more brilliant than the Central ins. Presumably the drugs here was also full of effects that could be used to save people with less effort. The yurt for Xiao Baoshan was set up as well. Li Hongmei couldnt wait to move his things into the room. Anyway there was not so much, just a few clothes. After sorting out Xiao Baoshans luggage, she wanted to pick up Ye Xiaoxians again. Ye Xiaoxian refused, insisting on staying with her. While Li Hongmei insisted on letting her move, so that they almost got into a fight. Just as the two of them were in a deadlock, someone suddenly came over and shouted, Little Ye, Auntie Hongmei, bad news. Little Yes husband is back. Li Hongmei asked unhappily, Then it would be good news. Why are you panicking? Little Yes husband is injured. He was carried back and is still unconscious. Li Hongmei and Ye Xiaoxian were stunned. Then the two of them ran out at almost the same time. ...... Xiao Baoshan was indeed brought back by someone. On thest day, he was charmed and burned. As soon as they left the desert, Wang Wen and Wangwu borrowed a horse to send him back. Ye Xiaoxian ran over to find that Xiao Baoshans eyes were closed, his lips white, and corner of his mouth had blisters, as if he were seriously short of water. In that instant, she suddenly worried that he would really die. Wang Wen and Wang Wu were worried that they couldnt find a doctor. Tarico told them that they could find a doctor after returning to the tribe, but the doctor in the tribe were simr to the wizard. They could only treat some of the small problems, not serious diseases. Upon hearing that there was a Dr. Xiao, they felt quite relieved and lucky that they quickly brought Xiao Baoshan into his new yurt and let Dr. Xiao disgnose. How did this happen? Dr. Xiao asked. He was hit by arrows, two arrows. He was fine at first, butter on, he got worse and worse. Doctor, please take a closer look. He has fainted for a whole day. Will he be fine? Dr. Xiao undid the clothes on Xiao Baoshan and the rags covered on the wounds. Then he saw that the wounds were turning ck with bruising. Li Hongmei asked in horror, Ah, isnt he poisoned? Are the arrows poisoned? Who is so cruel? Why are they poisoning on arrows? Its not poisoned, its tetanus. If he gets injured in the desert, the wound will be very difficult to get better. Now, I have to bring down his fever in time and then deal with the wounds. Dont be all around here or itll be detrimental to his wounds. Leave someone closest to him to assist me. Wang Wen said decisively, I should stay. I know what happened back then. Dr. Xiao smiled. You are a man. Itd be best if his wife leave. That... Mrs. Xiao, how about you helping me? When she heard the words Mrs. Xiao, Ye Xiaoxian didnte around at the time. Li Hongmei pushed her forward and said in a low voice, Little Ye, just stay here. He has been injured like this. You are the only one who can help him. Ye Xiaoxian, ... Only Dr. Xiao and Ye Xiaoxian stayed to take care of Xiao Baoshan. Dr. Xiao asked Ye Xiaoxian to undo the gown from Xiao Baoshan and prepare a basin of hot water to clean the wounds. In the tribe, they didnt need to worry about water shortage. Ye Xiaoxian went out and saw them surrounding Wang Wen and Wang Wu to ask something. Why did Xiao Baoshan get shot by arrows? Li Hongmei asked Wang Wen incredibly. We met bandits. But if it werent for General Xiao, all of us would have died in the desert. You dont know how brave General Yan was at that time. He was alone fighting with 30 people! Ah? Then, why didnt you go to help him? He asked us to protect other people and camels. ... Ye Xiaoxian listened to the brief story, but she didnt dare to linger here. She took the water and rushed back to the yurt. In order to facilitate Dr. Xiaos needle therapy, she had to wipe Xiao Baoshans body all over. The forehead, face, and upper body had to be wiped over carefully. She was like a nurse. Yet, if she had to wipe his body, then she had to touch him. She hadnt been so intimate with him for a long time. At first, she was a little unused to it. Later, when she slowly touched his skin, her heart raced rapidly. His skin was still ck and rough. His muscles were bulging. He should be impervious to des and spears, but he was now so weak that hey there like a child, motionless. Chapter 269 - Little Ye Took Care of Him

269. Little Ye Took Care of Him

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio When Little Ye thought about what Wang Wen had said that he was fighting against 30 people alone, she was a little attracted by such a brave man. She hoped that he would get better sooner. Are you finished? Dr. Xiao asked. Dr. Xiao was just burning his needle to disinfect, preparing to give a needle therapy for Xiao Baoshan. Yes! Ye Xiaoxian replied. Dr. Xiao took a look and confirmed that Ye Xiaoxian was indeed wiping Xiao Baoshan carefully, so he was sure that the couple should have been in deep love with each other, at least, Little Ye was. After all, there couldnt be another handsome and charming man like Xiao Baoshan. Dr. Xiao was giving Xiao Baoshan a needle therapy while Ye Xiaoxian was just watching aside. The silver needles were cautiously inserted into the body of Xiao Baoshan one by one, who also got slowly sweating. Dr. Xiao asked Ye Xiaoxian to prepare some dry towels to wipe his sweat and Ye Xiaoxian just listened to him and went out again. Most people who were curiously gossiping outside had left, except for Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu. Little Ye, hows Baoshan doing? Ye Xiaoxian shook her head. He still havent woken up yet, but, anyway, lets have some faith in Dr. Xiao. Hes a good doctor. Ill go get a towel to wipe sweat for him. Feeling sorry, Li Hongmei grabbed Ye Xiaoxian and sobbed, Little Ye, then please take good care of Baoshan. Ye Xiaoxian was quite speechless. She thought to herself, If you are really so nervous and care about Xiao Baoshan, then why you push me out just now?. And then she replied out of politeness, Ill. ...... After Dr. Xiao finished the treatment, he didnt wait long to withdraw them. Then he went to grind the medicine and asked Ye Xiaoxian to stay to help wipe out the sweat for Xiao Baoshan. She didnt know whether the purpose of needle therapy was to cool Xiao Baoshan down, anyway, he had been sweating after withdrawing needles, which made Ye Xiaoxian have no choice but to keep wiping for him. Thereafter, Dr. Xiao asked Ye Xiaoxian to prepare some porridge and water, saying that Xiao Baoshan would have porridge when he woke up. Ye Xiaoxian did everything in Dr. Xiaos instructions. In the end, she was almost paralyzed because of exhaustion. Before she fed the porridge, she fell asleep leaning against a pir in the yurt. She didnt know when, but she felt a hand holding her hand and caressing it in palms, through which she could feel the deep affections. At first, she thought it was a dream, but then she opened her eyes to find that it was Xiao Baoshan. He was staring at her with a burning gaze although she didnt know when he woke up. She immediately pulled her hand back and asked, Are you fine? When did you wake up? Just now, his voice was still weak. As Ye Xiaoxian realized that he hadnt eaten anything, she immediately asked, Are you hungry? Dr. Xiao had asked me to prepare some porridge for you, so if you are hungry, have some first. She went to touch the porridge on the table, which was still warm and it was best for patient. I havent eaten anything for a long time, so Im quite hungry. Xiao Baoshan replied honestly. Can you get up and eat yourself? No. Ye Xiaoxian, ... There was an extra quilt in his room. Ye Xiaoxian took the quilt over and helped him sit up a little higher, and then she took the bowl of porridge and fed him. This was too intimate, so she wasnt used to it and felt very awkward. If he hadnt been injured, she wouldnt have had such close contact with him. Xiao Baoshan had been cooperative and did everything as Ye Xiaoxian said. He took one mouthful of porridge after another while kept gazing at Ye Xiaoxian, which made Ye Xiaoxian quite embarrassed and awkward. Why do you keep looking at me, huh? she asked speechlessly. I didnt expect to see you after I woke up. Before I fainted, I was still in the desert, Xiao Baoshan said. So whats the point of seeing me? she still felt somewhat speechless. I remembered something, Xiao Baoshan said. Ye Xiaoxian paused. What? When he realized that his clothes had changed as he groped them, he asked, Who changed my clothes? Me, Ye Xiaoxian said. Ive put something in pocket. Have you noticed it? Really? Ye Xiaoxian put down the bowl and flipped through the pile of previous clothes. Then she found a piece of hard thing. She took it out and saw that it was a verdant hairpin. She remembered that he had also given her a hairpin before, but she didnt take it away with her hasty fleeing and left it in their previous house. Back then, she was angry at him like she was now. Give it to me? She asked him. He nodded. When I saw this hairpin, I just thought of you. I shouldve bought such a hairpin for you before. So what? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Xiao Baoshan didnt say anything this time. How much do you remember? She asked again. Only this, and... He said, also the feelings back then. So, how do you feel...? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Kind of restless and worried. Im afraid you dont like it, he said honestly. Ye Xiaoxians voice softened a little, Really? I remember that when you gave it to me, you seemed very calm. By the way, not only me, mom and Baozhu also got hairpins from you, did you still feel restless? It shouldnt be, its just for you, he said. You dont remember anything else except this. So dont you think it is kind of early to talk about this? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Xiao Baoshan was silent again. What happened to Jin Xiaoyu was a hurdle, and it was difficult for everyone to pass this hurdle, and they didnt know if they could pass it eventually. Ye Xiaoxian asked again, Are you full? If youre full, then rest first. Ill go out and ask Dr. Xiao to have a check and wash your dirty clothes by the way. ...... In the evening, Dr. Xiao had to arrange for people toe over to keep watch at night, but it might not be Little Ye anymore. It could be someone else who would be in turns. The main purpose was to wipe sweat for Xiao Baoshan and help him to relieve himself. Also, if his clothes were wet, they would have to change his clothes and feed him some porridge if he was hungry. When Ye Xiaoxian heard that others could do this job, she immediately wanted to take a rest, unwilling to take care of him anymore. Everyone knew that she was rather tired for taking care of Xiao Baoshan for a long time, so they quite understood and let her take a rest early. Ye Xiaoxian was still in the same room with Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu, who went to stay on watch. The two of them were responsible for the first half of the night andter would be reced by Xiao Tongshu, Wang Wen and Wang Wu. The yurt was very quiet, but Ye Xiaoxian couldnt sleep, tossing and turning. She pinched the hairpin in her hand and thought of the time they spent together. They used to be in love with each other. The few months before they parted, they were indeed loving each other dearly. It was impossible to say that she didnt love him. After he gave her a divorce paper, she was angry, but after she found out about his past, her anger faded. Even though she always said she didnt care, she knew that she had been looking forward to meeting him again. When he was having porridge earlier, ording to his words, he remembered her and confirmed that she was his wife. Then, should she forgive him now? Was his rtionship with Jin Xiaoyu a misunderstanding? At this moment, she felt extremely conflicted. Well, forget it. Let it be. She finally decided. ...... Ye Xiaoxian didnt fall asleep in the first half of the night while Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu had returned. Although they were cautious enough to not make any noise and tried not to disturb Ye Xiaoxians rest, Ye Xiaoxian still pretended that she was awakened. She pretended to have just woken up. Mom, hows it over there? Its getting better. Now Third Uncle and Wang Wen are going to shift guard. You should also go to sleep early. Go and see him tomorrow morning, Li Hongmei understood Little Yes hard work and wanted her to rest well, so she said so. Xiao Baozhu also said, Dont worry, my brother just had a bowl of porridge. It seems that he got better. Dr. Xiao had said that as long as his appetite is better, everything will be easy. While Ye Xiaoxian was worried about what if he wanted to go to the toilet as now it was deep in the night. Sure enough, she had justid down for a while when she heard the loud voice of the Xiao Tongshu from the nearby manor, Be careful, go here. They were probably helping Xiao Baoshan to go to the bathroom. As soon as Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhuy down, they fell asleep. However, Ye Xiaoxian tossed and turned on the bed for a while before falling asleep. ...... It was early in the morning and Ye Xiaoxian woke up. For some reason, the moment she opened her eyes, she thought of Xiao Baoshan again. Well, just go and see him. Frankly speaking, men were not as careful as women in serving people. When Ye Xiaoxian entered, she saw that Xiao Tongshu and Wang Wen slept in different sides while Xiao Baoshan had waken up. When he saw her, a hint of joy immediately appeared in his eyes, as if he was looking forward to her for a long time. Ye Xiaoxian ignored him and went to wake up Xiao Tongshu and Wang Wen. She asked them to go back to their own room to have a rest, saying that she would be here to take care of Xiao Baoshan. The two men felt exhausted and walked outzily. Ye Xiaoxian then walked up to Xiao Baoshan and asked him, How do you feel now? Much much better, he smiled. Ill get you a basin of water. You should rinse yourself, she said. Thank you, he suddenly became distanced and polite. Ye Xiaoxian felt somewhat funny, then went to carry a basin of water, handed him a hot towel, and then asked him, Are you hungry? What do you want to eat? Noodles, is that okay? Xiao Baoshan asked. The porridge was indeed not filling enough and now he did have some appetite. Yes, then wait a moment. Ye Xiaoxian went to prepare the noodles again. ...... She thought that he had just woken up, which shouldnt eat greasy things, so she made vegetarian noodles, but there was also some beef mince and green onion sprinkled on the soup. Then she also put an egg. The eggs were given by one of the refugees. Ever since they were free, they had been very enthusiastic about raising chickens and ducks. They had been raising them for a few months, and some had been raised for a longer time for eggs. So they sometimes would give some eggs to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian didnt have a chance to eat. Now that she remembered, she cooked it for Xiao Baoshan. When he saw this bowl of noodles, which was sprinkled with crumbled meat, he seemed to be full of appetite. Now, he didnt have to feed him anymore. He grabbed the noodles and quickly gulped them down. The food of the Longmen Inn was not good, and these days he had eaten meals cooked in big pots, which also couldnt be delicate. He felt that this was the best noodles he had ever eaten since he remembered it. However, as he ate noodles, memories shed in his mind. Ye Xiaoxian was busy in the kitchen, making food for him, and he praised her for making delicious food. Be slow, dont choke, Ye Xiaoxian reminded him. He smiled but didnt slow down. At this moment, the curtain of the manor opened with a person walked in who was suddenly stunned by what he saw. Chapter 270 - What Do You Recall?

270. What Do You Recall?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio One was eating noodles while the other sat beside him and watched him eat. The two of them sat very close, just like a loving couple. The bowl of noodle was already half finished. It looked very appetizing. She must have made the noodle for him with all her heart. In addition, the taste of the noodles was probably the same as those made in Zhongyuan region. This was a special way in which the two of them were in sync. Tarico felt that he had disturbed them. He stood at the door and hesitated, unsure if he should go in or leave. Right at this moment, Xiao Baoshan happened to see him, Tarico, are you looking for me? Ye Xiaoxian also turned around and smiled at Tarico. Not until now did Tarico walked in. He stood in front of them and felt unnatural as if he was an intruder. He said, Nothing important. The camels have just arrived and the resources have been unloaded, so Im justing around to see you. Tarico said in a local dialect that Xiao Baoshan could not understand, so Ye Xiaoxian tranted Taricos words for him. Thank you, said Xiao Baoshan with a smile. Then he continued to finish his noodles. In the meanwhile, he was also paying attention to Ye Xiaoxian and Tarico to see if they had any other interaction. However, Ye Xiaoxian always looked indifferent, which made him slightly relieved. Tarico asked Ye Xiaoxian again, How is his injury? It should be fine and it has recovered very quickly. Now he can barely get out of bed. But he should be able to go out after a few more days, Ye Xiaoxian answered. Tarico added, He was injured for saving us. I know. He was... very brave, Tarico added. Ye Xiaoxianughed a bit, Are you here to praise him? Tarico said, Im here to thank him. Then Little Ye tranted it to Xiao Baoshan. Thank you. Actually, I didnt do anything. Plus, I did so for saving myself. I must kill those bandits in order to be alive. Ye Xiaoxian tranted this sentence to Tarico, who, after hearing this, did not know what to say next. He felt that he was redundant and stood there like a third wheel, so he said goodbye, then turned around and left the room. Tarico came on a horseback. However, after he got on the horse, he didnt go back to his yurt. Instead, he galloped around. Later, he rode up a hillside and stood there. He shouted desperately, followed by a scream ofughters. It turned out that he just had unrequited love. He had always thought that he was the most outstanding person in the tribe and had never imagined that a person like Xiao Baoshan woulde. Xiao Baoshan was even more outstanding than him. No wonder Little Ye refused to ept him. After loving a lion, who would still like a panther? It was useless for him to wait. ...... Doctor Xiao was very happy as he saw that Xiao Baoshan was feeling better. He even praised Xiao Baoshan, It is indeed the body of a general. This foundation is good. Even if he is injured, he will recover very quickly. He also said to Ye Xiaoxian, Madam Xiao must have also taken good care of him. Otherwise, General Xiao would not recover so quickly. Ye Xiaoxian said she didnt do anything. As for the next step, Doctor Xiao would start giving Xiao Baoshan a treatment for amnesia. That day, Doctor Xiao called Xiao Baoshans entire family to enter the room and watch him diagnose. During the diagnosis, no one was allowed to speak or make a sound. Ye Xiaoxian thought at the moment, how could there be so many people when treating amnesia? At one point, she suspected that Li Hongmei and Doctor Xiao were colluding that the doctor specifically asked Li Hongmei to take care of Xiao Baoshan. Doctor Xiao first took the pulse for Xiao Baoshan, then applied acupuncture while closely paying attention to Xiao Baoshans reaction. Sometimes, it would hurt when the needles stab at certain acupuncture points, while at other times it wouldnt. After about half an hour, Doctor Xiao judged, The main cause of amnesia is the blood congestion in the brain. Some important meridians in the brain are blocked by the congestion, which caused him to forget about the past. Ye Xiaoxian thought that this was simr to modern diagnosis that the neural system in the brain was injured by blood congestion. However, if in modern times, craniotomy was necessary. But in this era, one could only take medicine and acupuncture treatments. Doctor Xiao thought about it for a while, then said, Based on my evaluation, the blood congestion isnt severe. Otherwise, General Xiaos brain would be seriously injured and even walking would be a problem. However, he has no problem with moving around, so at present, he only needs to take the medicine that unblocks the congestion. I will give General Xiao a few prescriptions of the medicine as well as acupuncture treatments to see if he will get better. The family listened but did not fully understand. Doctor Xiao let them in to receive their permission of the treatment, but they had no clue about it at all. Instead, Doctor Xiao could treat him in any way as he pleased. Seeing that no one had any objections, Doctor Xiao let all of them out, except for Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian, ... She was very busy, alright? ...... Doctor Xiao let Ye Xiaoxian stay mainly because she could read and understand the prescription. One more thing, he felt that Ye Xiaoxian was smart and had a good memory, so she could remember all his instructions and could carry them out very well. Doctor Xiao brought some herbs with him as he came, and now he onlycks one ingredient to brew the medicine. This ingredient happened to be avable in the tribe. The most suitable medicine for patients like Xiao Baoshan was the bezoar. Thus, for all day long, Ye Xiaoxian watched the tribe kill cows. If she could extract the bezoar from a certain cow or find the bezoar when someone is killing the cow, then she could use the bezoar to make the Angong bezoar pill, and there would be much hope to cure Xiao Baoshan. Since this was advised by Doctor Xiao, Ye Xiaoxian had no other choice but to try her best to find it. At the same time, she also asked Tarico and Auntie Baier to pay attention to the bezoar for her. So in case they found one, they could tell her. It was not difficult to find the bezoar. She was used to being busy anyway. But Doctor Xiao also asked her to spend more time talking with Xiao Baoshan. As far as the doctor knew, Xiao Baoshan left his vige since a young age, and was not very close to his family. Plus, he lived a life full of fighting and killing. The only warm and happy days that he had gone through were those with Ye Xiaoxian. Because of this, Ye Xiaoxians role was much more important than Li Hongmeis. Tenderness and warmth outweighed everything else. Doctor Xiao hoped that Ye Xiaoxian could talk with Xiao Baoshan every day. It was best to keep it for about two hours per day. Naturally, Ye Xiaoxian couldnt reject. Or, to be more precise, she did not really want to push off this business. She didnt hate Xiao Baoshan anymore. Instead, when they were getting along, she often thought about their past. asionally, she would feel a little tempted. The same was true for Xiao Baoshan. Maybe Doctor Xiaos treatment was effective, because from time to time, pieces of memories when they were still together would emerge in Xiao Baoshans mind. His injury was gradually healed and he could already walk on the ground. ...... Since Doctor Xiao had told him to talk for two hours every day, Ye Xiaoxian woulde over to be with him for two hours every evening. But she would nevere at other times, and would leave as long as two hours were up. Doctor Xiao told her to talk about the past, but Ye Xiaoxian didnt, deliberately. Instead, she would just talk about random things, and sometimes, she would even say that she was too tired to talk and would simply sit in the room for two hours. Although Xiao Baoshan could do nothing about her, he felt that she was too cute. That morning, he came out to find Ye Xiaoxian. Strangely enough, there were so many people outside, but he was able to find her in the crowd at first nce. She and a few female workers were talking andughing while marinating beef. He couldnt help but walk towards her. Then a female worker patted Ye Xiaoxian and joked, Your man is here to find you. Ye Xiaoxian looked back with a smile on her face. However, after a while, her face fell as she still did not take him kindly, Youreing for me? What for? Xiao Baoshan smiled subtly, Nothing specific. Just want to take a look. Alright, then just help yourself. But then she added, Youve just recovered from your injuries, so keep away from the heavy duties. Xiao Baoshan nodded. Ye Xiaoxian continued on her work. When the other female workers saw Ye Xiaoxian being so cold to Xiao Baoshan, they only thought that she was feeling embarrassed. Couples in these days wouldnt show any affection in the public space. They would kiss each other only when they get back home. Xiao Baoshan just stood on the side and watched Ye Xiaoxian work. She was very skilled with marinating the beef. She spread the sauce on the beef and then tied it up with a rope. Usually she could tie arge amount of beef on every rope. As he stared at her, he suddenly recalled a scene in front of him: she cooked while he watched. However, the current scene was much longer and clearer than before. In the past, he could only feel that it was her. But this time, these memories were alive. In the memory, he could recognize her smile. He even remembered that she told him not to move until the food is ready. Not only that, he even remembered the atmosphere back then. It was at a small restaurant. She owned the restaurant but named it Xiaos Family Restaurant. That was where their feelings toward each other grew. At times, they would go to the rooftop to chat and look at the stars. The more he remembered, the more emotional he got, and the shorter his breath was. He used to think of her everyday, but now he forgot about her. Little Ye! Xiao Baoshan suddenly walked to Ye Xiaoxian with a serious expression on his face. Whats wrong? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Can youe with me? Ye Xiaoxian didnt want to go, but the other female workersughed a bit and told her to go at once. He might have some whispers of love to tell her. Ye Xiaoxian wiped her hands with the wet cloth and stood in front of him in confusion. But who knows, he held her hand immediately, with no time left for exnation, and said imperatively, Follow me. What are you doing? Keep your hands off me. But he was too strong. If Ye Xiaoxian refused to go with him, he would keep draging her away, so she had no choice but to follow. Xiao Baoshan took her to a horse nearby and said excitedly, I seem to recall something. What do you recall? Ye Xiaoxian asked. The Xiao Family Restaurant. We were chatting on the rooftop. What else? She asked in surprise. And.. Did we go horseback riding together? Once, indeed. He took her to the countryside that time. The two of them were riding on the same horse. At first, the road was bumpy, but then she got excited and liked the feeling of running against the wind as she got use to it. She said to herself, Youve finally thought of something. Is there anything else? She asked again. Chapter 271 - An old and a Young

271. An old and a Young

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Xiao Baoshan, who was usually dull, suddenly said, The person I like has always been you. Ye Xiaoxian, ... While she was in a daze, she was already lifted up by him. Then, he rode on the horse with her and hugged her from behind. Ye, I want to ride the horse again with you. ... Ye Xiaoxian did not refuse. So he raised the whip and the horse happily galloped away. It was the same feeling again. At first, it was so bumpy that she felt like her butt was aching. After adapting to the rhythm, she felt as if she was running into the wind. And they were at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains, where the horse could gallop on the meadow. So broad was the area that it was even happier for them to ride a horse than before. Xiao Baoshan was so experienced in horseback riding that he could control the tempo in just a perfect way, as if he understood Ye Xiaoxians mind. He would slow down when they reached a ce with a more beautiful scenery so that she could enjoy it. Ye Xiaoxians spirits started soaring once again. At this moment, she almost forgot all her troubles as she felt like flying up in the air, while behind her was a metal wall protecting her. They didnt know how far they had gone until they reached a t grassy area. There was no one here nor any cow or sheep, but only colorful little flowers. Xiao Baoshan stopped here and put Ye Xiaoxian down. At this moment, she did notpletely calm down, but was still immersed in the excitement of their horseback riding, while he stared at her in a daze. The riding suddenly reminded him of something. Last time, after they rode together, he kissed her. This time, he had the same idea. So he did it. Ye Xiaoxian was caught off guard. Although she was surprised, at this moment, she couldn not think of any reason to reject him. At first, she was only passively epting it, but slowly she fell into it. When he noticed that she did not refuse, he held her in his arms and pressed her against the meadow beneath. Ye Xiaoxian was about to fall into it, but for some reason, Jin Xiaoyu vaguely emerged from her memory. She pushed him away with thest trace of rationality, then asked a question that she had always wanted to ask, Baoshan, have you... have you done something like this with Jin Xiaoyu? Xiao Baoshan paused. He did it after he was drunk but could not remember how it was done. It was Jin Xiaoyu who told him after he woke up. But he wasnt stupid and could still remember parts of it. Ye Xiaoxian saw his hesitation and was sure that she had done it. She pushed him away and wiped the drools from her mouth, feeling angry and offended. He had another woman before, so how could she ept him wholeheartedly? Even if he lost his memory, so what? Just because he had lost his memory so he could do it with Jin Xiaoyu? Xiao Baoshan knew that he did a wrong thing but did not exin. Rather, he just looked at her with care. He might feel better if she hit him and shouted at him. However, she only felt suffocated and pulled the grass off her side one by one before tearing it off. ...... On the way back, the two of them were still riding the same horse but neither of them spoke. She was in a fit of pique but he did not dare to annoy her. When they returned to the tribe, Li Hongmei and the rest were particrly happy. They heard that the two of them had gone horseback riding in the afternoon. Does it mean that their rtionship had gone further? However, neither of them spoke and the rest dared to ask. s, it must be getting awkward again. After all, Xiao Baoshan did not know how to please women. It was such a good opportunity to push her down and force himself on her, but he let it slip away. ...... Longmen Inn. Jin Xiaoyu had been drinking herself into oblivion for a long time. Ever since Xiao Baoshan left her, she had been drinking every day C she drank at night and slept during the day. Aside from holding a treasure appraisal ceremony every month, she usually stayed in her room. It was hard to fall in love with a man. She wanted him to stay by her side forever. But who knew, at this point, that his wife woulde. And he left with his wife without hesitation. On the surface, she looked carefree; but in reality, her heart was filled with unwillingness, and only she knew how much she felt. After having drank too much, she felt increasingly depressed. One night, she suddenly smashed the wine jar and scolded, Hey, what kind of person am I! Beauty and intelligence, I both possess. Need I be together with a man with a wife? Need I get drunk like this? Having drunk and slept too much, she realized that the rims of her eyes were swollen. She was not even beautiful anymore. Jin Xiaoyu regained her spirit, dressed up, practiced martial arts, received the monsters and freaks from far apart, and pretended to flirt with some men interested in her. Sometimes, she would suffer a small loss, but these men would not be able to take advantage of her. One day, a few more guests came to the inn. It was daytime and Jin Xiaoyu satzily in front of the counter. Intuitively, she felt that these people were not simply here for treasure appraisal. They looked very cautious. After they entered the inn, they checked the ce all around to make sure it was safe before they decided to settle down. Of course, Jin Xiaoyu didnt know what their so-called safety standards were. Maybe they cared about whether there were officers or soldiers here, or whether it was a gangster inn. It was originally a gangster inn. But after Xiao Baoshan came, it was no longer the same. How many rooms do you want? Jin Xiaoyu askedzily. Two, one of them said. Jin Xiaoyuzily shouted to Er Sha, Er Sha, bring a few guests to the Tianzi room. They were all dressed in simple clothes but their dispositions did not fit in their cloches. Three of them looked like itinerant people, while the other two are an old man and a young boy. The old man looked terribly fatigued, and the young boy looked like seven or eight years old. He looked noble and was not shy that he even dared to look at Jin Xiaoyu right through his big eyes. Jin Xiaoyu blinked at him. He even smiled at Jin Xiaoyu and said, Hello, Sis. Hello. The old man probably did not want to attract attention. He nodded politely to Jin Xiaoyu then urged the boy, Little Xun, lets go upstairs quickly. Dont disturb this sister. Okay! Little Xun said mildly. Jin Xiaoyu was disinterested in the three itinerant people, but was full of affection for the old man and the boy. She usually received rough people in the inn, so it was rare to receive two polite people like this. After Er Sha settled them down, he came down and told Jin Xiaoyu that they wanted them to prepare dinner and asked if they could bring the dinner to the room, a few dishes were enough. Jin Xiaoyu let Er Sha do it and bring it up to their room. At the same time, she also told Er Sha to bring the pears that had just arrived yesterday to the old man and the boy. ...... Jin Xiaoyu was in contact with many guests. Although she was impressed by some people, she never took it seriously. After those people went upstairs, she forgot about them, as always. It wasnt untilter that someone came over to ask about the way to Baoning City, saying that he was going there to seek help from a friend. Jin Xiaoyu told him that he should go all the way west. After asking Jin Xiaoyu, the person went upstairs and nned to leave early the next morning. Jin Xiaoyu was about to calcte the ounts for the past few days when a little round head suddenly appeared beside her. It was the boy who checked in today. The boy was holding a bamboo dragonfly toy in his hands. He handed the bamboo dragonfly to Jin Xiaoyu and said, Sister, this is for you. For me? Why for me? How could you flirt with girls at such a young age? The boy asked, What does flirt with a girl mean? ...Well, it means trying to please youngdies. Are you trying to please me? The child said seriously, No, my grandpa said that if you send us pear, then I should give you a bamboo dragonfly in return. That being said, one good turn deserves another. Did your grandpa say that? Jin Xiaoyu asked. The child nodded again. Yes, Ive asked my grandpa. He said that I can give you the bamboo dragonfly, so I came down. Jin Xiaoyu pinched the childs face and asked, Where did youe from? Also fleeing for safety? No, were ying a game, the boy answered. ying a game?! What game? The Game of Cat and Mouse. Grandpa and I are now acting as rats and are being chased by the cat. If we are able to hide, then we will win, the boy answered seriously. Jin Xiaoyu realized they were being chased for a kill. Nevertheless, it was interesting to describe chasing and killing as a game. Who told you that you guys were ying games? Jin Xiaoyu asked again. My grandpa. But I dont like this game very much. Its too scary. My parents didnt manage to escape. I didnt want to y it since a long time ago. But my grandpa said that if we win, I will get a reward. As for what reward, Im not sure. Anyway, it can be done regardless of the reward. Jin Xiaoyus heart suddenly softened. Mom and dad didnt manage to escape. Doesnt it mean they were dead? That was why that his grandfather still had the time and patience tofort the child, and did teach the child to take revenge. For average parents, they would definitely tell him to take avenge for his parents when he grew up. Jin Xiaoyu smiled, Actually, there are rewards along the way. For example, when you arrive at my ce, I have to give you a reward. The pear I gave you before is also a reward. Oh right, there are some apples in the kitchen. Ill let someone give you someter. The child pped his hands and said, Okay! Thank you, Sis! Youre so nice. I havent met anyone as nice as you on my way. Little thing, you can even make people happy. The old man went downstairs as Jin Xiaoyu finished speaking. The old man spoke loudly, Little Xun, its time toe back. Little Xun quickly ran towards his grandfather. The old man said to Jin Xiaoyu politely, Sorry to bother you, youngdy. No worries, Jin Xiaoyu replied indifferently. The old man did not want to talk much. After a simple salute, he took Little Xuns hand and went back to the room. On the way to his room, Little Xun even turned back and smiled at Jin Xiaoyu. Such a cute face he had. Jin Xiaoyu felt that her heart was softented by him. ...... In the middle of the night, Jin Xiaoyu was woken up and San Sha shouted out loud from the outside, Its on fire! Its on fire! She suddenly jumped up from the bed. Just as she was about to get up to see what was going on, a fiery arrow suddenly shot towards her window. Someone was attacking the inn! Chapter 272 - Saving Lives

272. Saving Lives

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio She avoided the window and nced outside again. Good heavens! There were dozens of soldiers standing outside, shooting arrows at her inn. Jin Xiaoyu was furious. Damn it! There is nothing wrong with my inn! Why are you guys setting fire to it? Setting fire without saying a word, and even done by soldiers! Were they taking advantage of me because they thought I had no one powerful backing me up? However, the arrows came one after another fiercely, obviously forcing the people inside the inn to get out. Jin Xiaoyu put on her clothes and pulled out another sword. She grabbed a few more pieces of silver with her in case of emergency. The noise was so loud that all the guests in the inn came out, including those who came today, the old man and the boy. When Little Xun saw Jin Xiaoyu, he immediately called out, Sis! All the staffs at the inn came out as well. Jin Xiaoyu nodded at Little Xun and asked the staff, Whats going on? Why are the soldiers burning the inn for no reason? The staffs had no clue at all. Little Xun told Jin Xiaoyu, innocently, Were ying with cats and mice. Now that these cats are here to catch us, so we have to run. Jin Xiaoyu, ... So it seemed this little guy caused such a trouble for her. A great cloud of smoke blew into the inn. Jin Xiaoyu coughed a few times before she asked with anger, Who are you? Why are the soldiersing after you? Xun Jianan stood out at this moment and apologized to Jin Xiaoyu, Youngdy, to be honest, they are here for me. I was a former Prime Minister, who was punished for offending the Emperor and the State Preceptor at the expense of executing my whole family. However, there were a few righteous men who believed that my life should not be taken away, so I escaped with my grandson. Who knows that I couldnt escape their hunt even if Im here C in the middle of nowhere! Prime Minister? Jin Xiaoyu was so low-spirited a while ago that she waspletely cut off with things happening in the imperial court, so she did not any affairs about the Prime Minister. She sneered, Im so unlucky to be implicated. My inn is about to be burned because of you. Ill take whole responsibility. In the current situation, I dont think I can escape. My death is not to be regretted. Its just that my grandson... the Prime Minister said with grief. Jin Xiaoyu said, Your grandson has only one life and so do others. You cant sacrifice all of us just because you are noble, right? Hearing this, the Prime Minister felt even more distressed and guilty. The few men following the Prime Minister bitterly attacked Jin Xiaoyu, What could you know as a woman?! The Prime Mister served three emperors. He had done many good things for the people in his life. If he could get his life back, I would rather use ten of my lives to trade for his! Another added, Thats right. We volunteered to protect the Prime Minister. Its just that were unlucky tonight. I didnt expect that the soldiers would arrive so soon. Otherwise, we would rather sleep in the desert than getting you into trouble. When Jin Xiaoyu saw how righteous they were, she recalled how polite the grandfather and the grandson had been in the day. Perhaps they were not so bad, she wondered. Looking at Little Xun again, he probably realized as well that the situation tonight was different. It was the first time that Jin Xiaoyu saw him look timid. This inevitably hurt Jin Xiaoyu. She scolded herself: Ah, this damn sympathy. The smoke was getting thicker and the people inside the inn felt choking. If they did not go out sooner orter, they would have to die here. Prime Minister Jin said, Ill go out and talk to them. Ill ask them to let you all go. This matter was originally caused by me. You have protected me for such a long time that Im afraid I will get your lives in danger. This youngdy is right. You are all lives of your own and a son of parents. I cant be so selfish. Of course the others would not allow this to happen, Its already in such a situation. In any case, we will have to fight with our lives. If we die, we die together; and if we live, we live together! Jin Xiaoyu roared impatiently, Stop arguing! Come with me! Everyone looked at Jin Xiaoyu, not knowing she had other ways to save them from this situation. Jin Xiaoyu said, If you dont want to die, follow me right now. Even though she appeared to be very angry at this moment, everyone could tell that she was actually helping them. So everyone followed her. Apart from them, there were also a few other guests at the inn. Jin Xiaoyu did not let these people follow. Instead, she let Idiot knock them out. After they cked out, Jin Xiaoyu asked Idiot, Fool and Si Sha to send all of them out. The group of men were puzzled by Jin Xiaoyus actions. Jin Xiaoyu exined, They have nothing to do with us. If we knock them out, firstly they wont be burned to death, secondly they wont be troubled by the soldiers, and thirdly they wont incriminate us. Lets go! Jin Xiaoyu brought them to the kitchen. It turned out that one of the hearths was the entrance to a secret underground tunnel. Only one person could get in every time, so Jin Xiaoyu let them enter one by one before she followed. The tunnel was dark but Jin Xiaoyu was able to find the lock. Once theypletely got into the tunnel, she locked it and did not let Idiot and Fool follow. They were innocent. She did not want to implicate them. They would definitely be able to find the way out even if they did not enter the tunnel. They walked along the dark and long tunnel for about half an hour until there was no way ahead. Jin Xiaoyu walked across them, opened a lock and pushed open the cover above them. With a flush of yellow sand pouring in, they could vaguely see the stars in the sky. Jin Xiaoyu shouted, Get out before its toote! The group climbed up again. It turned out that it was behind a small sand hill. This tunnel was dug by Jin Xiaoyu when she opened the inn. It was specifically used for escapes. The sand hill blocked the sight so that the surrounded soldiers could not see them. They could flee in the opposite direction. In the darkness, a few ck shadows rushed to the desert not far away. ...... However, they were eventually discovered. The soldiers surrounded the inn for a long time, but only a few people of no importance were forced toe out as the inn was about to burn down. So they interrogated Idiot and Fool about where the Prime Minister and his followers were hiding. Idiot and Fool figured out that they had already escaped so they came clean about the tunnel. Through encirclement, the soldiers quickly set their target on the desert, so they sent people to chase after them again. Jin Xiaoyu and the others did not escape quickly enough, so they were discovered by the soldiers right after they ran through the desert. The Prime Ministers followers told Jin Xiaoyu to run away with the Prime Minister and Little Xun and they would bring up the rear. Jin Xiaoyu did not hesitate. She was neither a rtive nor a friend of the Prime Minister, for whom she even lost her inn. At this time, there was no need for her to risk her life helping them. Jin Xiaoyu pulled Little Xun over and grabbed the Prime Minister, Come with me! However, the Prime Minister pushed Jin Xiaoyu away. He gasped and said, Im too weak to continue running. Miss Jin, youre a righteous person. Can you please send Little Xun to Baoning City for me? Youre not leaving? Jin Xiaoyu asked with shock. The situation was already worse enough. If he simply stayed as he said, wouldnt we be escaping for nothing before this? The Prime Minister Jin looked at Little Xun again and said to him, Little Xun, follow this sister. Listen to her. Dont be naughty. Once you finish this game, you will see grandpa in the future. Little Xun asked, Grandpa, isnt this game over yet? Its far from over. Just go! Jin Xiaoyu saw that the soldiers had already approached in front of them. In the meanwhile as she tried to resist the soldier, she dragged Little Xun towards her, Little Xun, lets go! Grandpa... not far away, Little Xun looked at the zing mes shooting towards the sky. He could in fact guess what had happened. Prime Minister Jin waved goodbye to Little Xun in the desert with a kind smile on his face. Jin Xiaoyu dragged Little Xun into the stone tunnel in the desert and disappeared from Prime Minister Jins eyes. Prime Minister Jin shouted to those people, You guys, hurry up and leave too. Dont worry about me anymore. It is already a blessing from heaven for me to live for so many years, and it is also a blessing from you. Your great kindness will be paid back in my next life! His followers tried to persuade him, Prime Minister Jin, we are not afraid of death. We would rather die to protect you and escort you safely to Baoning City. A few of you have already sacrificed. If you sacrificed your lives as well, I wont be able to face my people even in my afterlife. Please ept my gratitude! After saying that, Prime Minister Jin took out a dagger and cut his throat open with without the slightest hesitation. Blood sshed out that shocked everyone. The Prime Minister was not afraid of death. He had lived for so long just to protect his grandson. Now that his grandson was protected by Jin Xiaoyu, so he did not want to be the burden of others anymore. The group of men fought against the soldiers for a while, knowing that they could not resist so many soldiers with their ability. The Prime Minister was already dead, so in any case it was impossible to save him. They quickly retreated to the stone road behind the desert, intending to escape from there. ...... There were many paths inside the mountains in the desert, as if in a maze. Once they followed a wrong way, it would hardly be possible for them to meet again. Jin Xiaoyu dragged Little Xun with her. She was figuring the way out based on her living experience in the desert for years. One advantage here was that the road was too narrow for a horse to enter, so that everyone could only walk on their feet. Jin Xiaoyu encouraged Little Xun as they walked. He had to keep up. Little Xun knew by instinct that he did not have another choice once he came in, so he could only follow Jin Xiaoyu. The group of men originally following the Prime Minister nned to catch up with them at first. But there were too many crossroads, so they got lost eventually. They thought that Jin Xiaoyu was not a bad person, so it was not likely that she would abandon Little Xun as long as he was alive. So they took care of themselves. When they reached dawn, Jin Xiaoyu finally led Little Xun out of the mountain. She was worried that soldiers would chase after them, so she did not dare to rest. She stole a horse near the farm. Then, she put Little Xun up on the horse before getting on the horse herself. Sis, did you borrow this horse? Little Xun asked on the horse. Of course it was borrowed. When should we return it? Little Xun asked innocently. When we have money. Sis, grandpa said it isnt right to steal things, Little Xun added. ... Jin Xiaoyu wanted to shout at him. At a time like this, who cares if the horse was stolen or borrowed? But somehow, she suddenly thought of someone who was as straightforward as Little Xun, telling her that lying was not the right thing to do. She took out some silver from her pocket and threw it onto the grass. Look, I gave the money. I bought this. Little Xun smiled brightly at her. Chapter 273 - Did the Seventh King Know This Woman?

273. Did the Seventh King Know This Woman?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Jin Xiaoyu looked at Little Xuns smile and couldnt help but mutter, At least you would give me a smile. That person never even smiled to me. Little Xun replied to Jin Xiaoyu with a confused face. He did not know what Jin Xiaoyu meant. Jin Xiaoyu added, Alright, lets not talk about it. Sister will finish the rest of the game with you. ...... They rushed all the way to Baoning City. Having arrived at the city, Jin Xiaoyu was about to report their cases when they reached the Six Kings residence. But she felt that it was inappropriate after thinking through. A person who was chased after even by the imperial court now entering the building without any cover C wouldnt it get the Sixth King into trouble? Not to mention whether the Sixth King was trustworthy or not, if those officers and soldiers knew that the Sixth King epted Little Xun and the imperial court held him ountable, would the Sixth King hand over Little Xun or not? If he handed over Little Xun, it was breaking the promise with the Prime Minister. If he didnt hand him over, then it was fighting against the whole imperial court. Thinking about this, Jin Xiaoyu left the horse and pulled Little Xun into an alley. When they came out again, Jin Xiaoyu became a country girl and Little Xun turned from a little boy to a beautiful little girl. There was not a single sense of discord as Little Xun dressed up as a little girl. He had a very fairplexion with a round face. He tied a ponytail and easily became a little girl. Also, he was so young that he did not have to put two steamed buns in his chest to pretend having a breast. On the other hand, Jin Xiaoyu felt extremely upset. She sighed, I used to be the popr and charming boss of the Longmen Inn. I didnt expect to dress up as a country girl. Little Xun looked at her and said sincerely, Sister, you look good in anything. Really? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Of course. Jin Xiaoyu scratched his little face, I dont know whether I look good or not in these clothes, but you really know how to sweet talk me. It is worth saving your life with such a huge effort. Thank you, Sis, Little Xun was very polite. Jin Xiaoyu added, Lets stop talking and find a ce to eat. She led Little Xun to a restaurant. But in the blink of an eye, she had already disguised herself as country girl, if she went to the restaurant and paid with a bag of silver, she would definitely be eye-catching and would arouse suspicion. ...... After a quarter of an hour, Jin Xiaoyu led Little Xun to a noodle store on the side walk and ordered two bowls of beef noodles. At least, there were a few pieces of beef in the noodle, and it tasted very good. Jin Xiaoyu took a few bites and realized that Little Xun was gulping down the noodles, as if he had been starved for a long time. She paused for a while, then picked out the beef granules in her bowl and gave them to Little Xun. Sis, dont you want to eat? Little Xun swallowed the noodles in his mouth and asked, looking quite good-mannered. I dont like beef. You can eat it, said Jin Xiaoyu with a sense of indifference. Sis, youre so nice, Little Xun added. Its not that I am nice. I just dont want to eat. You dont have to thank me, Jin Xiaoyu replied again. Little Xun took two more bites but suddenly stopped eating. Whats wrong? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Little Xuns nose turned red, Grandpa was also like sister. He especially picked out the meat in his bowl for me to eat. And also those uncles with excellent martial arts who always followed grandpa. I wonder how they are now. Sis, do you think they will die? Of course... not! Jin Xiaoyu felt guilty when she said this. Seeing that Little Xun was in a low mood, she added, No, definitely not! Isnt your grandpa ying games with those uncles? They lost the game but your game is not over yet. As long as you follow me, we can definitely make it to the end. Little Xun wiped his eyes, not letting his tears fall, Why would they burn the house and kill people if we are ying games? Those are fake. When did you see them killing people? It must be mistaken, said Jin Xiaoyu but still with a guilty tone. She didnt want to lie, but she couldnt bear to let Little Xun down. This child was sensible and intelligent for his age, but at the same time naive and innocent. Such a lovable and poor little thing. Little Xun wiped his eyes again and said, Grandpa must have said that I should live and be a happy and ordinary person in the future. Yes! Jin Xiaoyu immediately replied with certainty, You have to listen to your grandpa. As long as we reach a safe ce and settle down ourselves, maybe your grandpa wille, and also your mom and dad! Do you miss your parents? Little Xun nodded and sniffed again. Yes, I miss them. I miss them even in my dreams. Thats right! You have to hold on. As long as the bad guys dont catch us, we will be able to live. Little Xun asked again, Sis, will you always be with me? Not necessarily, it depends on the situation, said Jin Xiaoyu. Little Xun didnt receive an expected answer and bursted into tears. Jin Xiaoyus heart was softened so she added, I will try my best to be with you. Little Xun smiled again. Lets not talk too much. Hurry up and eat the noodles. Itll get cold otherwise. ...... After the two of them finished eating they wandered along the street for a while. During this period of time, they saw officers and soldiers enter the city. She knew by instinct that these people must be looking for Little Xun, so she quickly pulled Little Xun over to hide. It was not safe to stay in the inn now. They might carry out house-to-house searchester in the day. It was best to y hide-and-seek with these soldiers. This was quite an easy task for Jin Xiaoyu. They had disguised themselves anyway, so it was not difficult to escape the search of the soldiers. ...... The Sixth Kings residence. Li Chengyi and Li Chengru sat in the lobby. A person dressed like a general stood in front of them. This person was particrly arrogant since the moment he entered. In his opinion, neither Li Chengyi nor Li Chengru had any power. Although they were in charge of Baoning City, the city was not arge ce, and was inferior to even a vounty in Zhongyuan area. He hade today to discuss about something. What do youe for? Li Chengyi asked indifferently. He was now sitting with Li Chengru while the general was standing. The general looked around. There were obviously extra chairs but Li Chengyi did not invite him to sit down. He said defiantly, We were appointed to arrest the criminal ording to the imperial order. We have followed them all the way to your city, so I want to ask the Sixth King if I he had seen this person before. The general spread out a piece of paper and was about to present it to the Sixth King when Li Chengru stopped him. You impudent! Li Chengru continued coldly, Who the hell are you? And my brother is the sixth King. How dare you talk to my sixth brother as an equal? Seeing that Li Chengyi was calm andposed while Li Chengru was irritable and direct, the general had no other way but to stop walking and pass the portrait to the secretary of Li Chengyi and let the secretary present it to him. Li Chengyi looked at the portrait and then asked the general, Sir, are you kidding me? The person on the portrait was clearly a little brat! But you said that he was a criminal ording to the imperial order. Do you think that Baoning City is too small, so you can ask me about such a negligible matter? You tell me, did this little brat steal watermelon or green beans? Li Chengru sneered. The general paused for a moment and replied, This little brat didnt steal sesame, nor did he steal watermelon. He is the grandson of the former prime minister, Xun Jianan. His whole family should be executed, but his grandson and himself managed to escape. They are running towards Baoning City all the way. Im sure its because they want to ask you for help, so I came over to ask. How dare you! Li Chengru patted the table and shouted, You mean the Sixth King will give shelter to the criminals?! They ran in this direction, so they wanted to seek help from the Sixth King? They might just want to leave the border and flee to the Wzha Kingdom. The general knew that they would retort like this, but he continued, Even if he didnt seek help from the Sixth King, they have already reached your territory. So I beg your Majesty to search over. If they managed to escape, the consequences would be disastrous. Li Chengru added, This is really strange. They escaped from the capital city and you didnt catch them as they passed through so many ces. You didnt hold those ces responsible but now youe to our ce to question us. You want us to take the fall? The general, ... Li Chengyi asked again, Didnt you say they escaped together? Then why is there only a portrait of the boy? Where is Prime Minister An? The general said with a straight face, Hemited suicidest night. The general sounded so indifferent as if the dead one was just a dog. Li Chengyi clenched his fists but quickly restrained himself. Li Chengru asked again, You said that Prime Minister Xun hasmited suicide, while the little kid fled to my territory. How old is that kid? Can he manage to arrive here alone? The general said, The kid has a few masters protecting him. The boss of Longmen Inn also assisted them to escape. These are very cunning people. It is not difficult at all for them to protect a kid. The boss of Longmen Inn? Li Chengru remembered this woman and had a deep impression of her. Your Highness know this woman? The general g asked. I have heard a little about her, Li Chengru replied. Since thats the case, its not difficult to exin why the kid managed to escape. This woman is very cunning and is highly skillful in martial arts. Perhaps the kid is with her. On the other hand, Li Chengyi said, Alright, we will cooperate with your request. From now on, I will demand the citys soldiers to assist you in the search. However, we dont know if the child fled to my ce. Besides, there are not many troops in Baoning City. We dont know if we can find them. The general was finally satisfied and bowed to them, Thank you, the Sixth King, and thank you, the Seventh King. The general felt his mouth so dry as he left. He had been standing there for so long without having a sip of water. ...... In the lobby, Li Chengru asked Li Chengyi, Sixth Brother, do you seriously decide to help catch the kid? What do you n to do after getting him? Li Chengyi turned the question back to Li Chengzhu, Do I have other choice? I send soldiers to catch the kid and get him myself. Isnt it better than that kid falling into the hands of that person? Sixth Brother, you mean, we are only in charge of the search. As for how to deal with the kid after we have caught him, it depends upon us? Li Chengzhu asked again. What do you have in mind, my seventh brother? Chapter 274 - Keen Insight

274. Keen Insight

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Li Chengru said, I remember that we have discussed about this before. There should be a war in the north. Prime Minister Xun was just brave enough to offer advice, but he didnt expect such a consequence. He shouldnt have died. But now he was already dead, then we should protect his grandson. Li Chengyi smiled in agreement. Li Chengru continued, I will go investigate right now and try to find the kid before the general. ...... Jin Xiaoyu found thating to Baoning City was the worst idea. Not long after they entered the city, a lot of soldiers and officers poured into the city. Their portraits were even pasted along the street. Thankfully, after she and Little Xun dressed up, they look different with the portraits. However, it was impossible for them to leave the city. The only thing they could do was to hide. Fortunately, whatever Jin Xiaoyu dressed Little Xun into, he would not resist at all. At this moment, they could not live in the inn, neither could they get out of the city. They could only hide from ce to ce. At night, they stayed at some dark corners, shivering from the cold. Jin Xiaoyu oftenined to herself at night. Howe a beautiful and charming boss suddenly fell to the point of sleeping on the streets? It must be a long story. However, when sometimes the two of them huddle together on the cold streets to warm up, she would look at Little Xuns face his lips turned pale because of the cold weather but he didntin a word. Seeing this, she hugged him tighter. It was so damn strange. She used to be rich and never had any worry about food and clothing, but she always felt that her heart was empty. She had never experienced the so-called fickleness of human nature and the warm and cool feelings between people, and she felt that living was meaningless. Now that she had met Little Xun and started to live a life of wander, she actually felt that a part of her heart was filled up. Maybe she was just an easy person, she thought. Sometimes, she would give up everything she had for a little tenderness and warmth in turn. As she was thinking about it, she heard the sound of the soldiers from not too far away. Jin Xiaoyu scolded, God damn! She woke Little Xun up again. Alright, now its time for hide-and-seek again. Lets find somewhere else to hide. They sneaked out quietly, intending to escape from the eyes of the soldiers. However, the night was too still and silent. When they were getting out, Little Xun identally touched a wooden board and the wooden board fell followed by a noise. Theres someone here! Quick, go find it! It made Jin Xiaoyus toes curl. If they were found, they would have no choice but to fight. Listening to the sound of the footsteps, there were least twenty people. If they fought hard, they might attract even more people. But at this point, they had to fight, or get caught. Since there was a blind alley behind her, she could use Light Kungfu to escape if she was alone. But with Little Xun, she was not sure of it. Besides, Baoning City was notrge enough. It was unlike the capital city, where you could fly around the rooftop. Just as she was about to set her posture, someone suddenly rushed to the front. Jin Xiaoyu thought that he was one of the soldiers here to arrest her. But after he rushed to the front, he covered her mouth and gestured for her to stay quiet. In the hazy night, Jin Xiaoyu saw a handsome face, as if she had seen it somewhere before. Follow me! Li Chengru said. He picked up Little Xun and let Jin Xiaoyu follow him. The three of them climbed to the other side of the wall. Soon, someone asked, Who, who is there?! Then Feng Shengs voice was heard. Its me, the Seventh Kings bodyguard. Tonight, Im in charge of the inspection on this street. Im taking a pee here! Those officers and soldiers were fooled and left. Meanwhile, Li Chengru led Jin Xiaoyu into the night from another street. ...... Li Chengru brought them to a deep and remote house and said, Alright, you can stay here for now. Its very safe here and no one will find you. I will bring you out of the cityter. Jin Xiaoyu looked at Li Chengru. Ive seen you before. Youve stayed in my inn before. Keen insight. I still remember that you were with a youngdy. Jin Xiaoyu said. That little girlter became her rival in love, which she had never imagined. So, this little young gentleman in front of her are rivals of love with Xiao Baoshan? She could tell that this gentleman was very concerned about the youngdy. The two of them were quite close at that time. Li Chengru said, Not only do you have a keen insight but also a good memory. The main reason is that youre too handsome. Theres no way for anyone to forget. Oh right, why did you help me tonight? Jin Xiaoyu asked. I just want to for no reason. Who are you? Jin Xiaoyu asked again. You dont have to know this. In short, you just have to believe that I sincerely want to help you, Li Chengru looked at Little Xun again and said, You are actually a brave young man, right? Little Xun looked at Li Chengru, not at all timid but didnt say a word. He now knew he had to be on guard against others. Jin Xiaoyu told him that he shoudlnt believe in anyone except for her. Li Chengru smiled. I know you are a brave yound man and your grandfather is an upright official. You are just in trouble for now, but with me around, you will be safe. Li Chengru then said to Jin Xiaoyu, Now in the Baoning city, only this ce is safe. I am the only person you can trust. Remember not to walk around. After the soldiers leave, I will send you to a safe ce. Jin Xiaoyu smiled. Im sure you wont sell us for the reward of ten million silver. You dont need this money. We trust you! Li Chengrun bid her farewell. Its already veryte. I wont bother you. Sleep well and theres food in the kitchen. If youre hungry, you can make some food yourself. If the officers and soldierse to search the room, you can hide in the secret chamber. ...... After Li Chengru left, Jin Xiaoyu thoroughly observed the ce. These were all local style buildings and the furnishings in the room were all Zhongyuans style. The room was very warm. There was a charcoal furnace, a bed and a quilt, much better than sleeping outside under the wind. Jin Xiaoyu didntpletely trust Li Chengru, but right now, she really needed a room toy down and sleep well. Otherwise, she would be pined away. She said to Little Xun, Little Xun, go wash your face and have a good sleep. Ill make breakfast tomorrow morning. Little Xun nodded obediently, showing great expectation. The two of them washed their faces andid on the bed exhaustedly. Little Xun slept on opposite ends with Jin Xiaoyu and soon fell asleep. ...... Sixth Kings Residence. Li Chengru and Li Chengyi said that they had found Little Xun and had already settled them properly. The house they were hiding in used to be built by a family of refugees. After the war ended, the refugees went back to Zhongyuan and left the house empty. Li Chengru changed the ce into a small courtyard and originally nned to give it to Feng Sheng as a present and find a wife for Feng Sheng. Unexpectedly, he didnt find a wife but found out that this ce could be used for hiding. Is Seventh Prince sure that the child is Prime Minister Xuns grandson? Li Chengyi asked. Li Chengru said with certainty, Yes, Im sure, because Ive met the bossdy of Longmen Inn before. If what the general had said was true, that the kid was rescued by the bossdy, then it must be him. Li Chengyi showed a hint of relief, which soon turned into worries. Prime Minister Xuns family suffered such a tragedy that they were all killed. There is only a single hope left. Now that he is still alive and has fled here, we must ensure his safety. However, nothing could be kept secret forever. We cannot take them in for a long time. After this tempest, we will still have to send him away. Seventh Prince, what do you think? Li Chengru agreed with certainty, We cant always hide him in the room, this is not good for him. However, neither can we just keep him by outside. Indeed, there is no such thing as a secret, not to mention that we are closely watched over by the Third Brother. If he finds out the secret, then the past of Prime Minister Xun would be our future. How about this.... Li Chengru thought of Ye Xiaoxian, then Xiao Baoshan. He said, A few dayster, we will send him to the Tianshan tribe. Xiao Baoshan, Wang Wen and Wang Wu are there to protect him. Also, that ce isrge but only has a small poption, so Little Xun can enjoy himself in horseback riding if hes there. Li Chengyi agreed immediately, Thats right. The Tianshan tribe suits them the most. Then lets do this. We will send Little Xun there. As for thedy with him... Its up to her. If she doesnt have a ce to go, she can also go to the tribe. The two of them can disguise as siblings, just say that they are distant rtives of Xiao Baoshan. ...... The soldiers had been in Baoning City for over ten days, but couldnt find Jin Xiaoyu and Little Xun. Originally, they nned to search in various tribes, but when they heard that each tribe was very far away and covers arge area, plus the ces are either extremely cold or freezing, they gave in. It would take them forever to do this. Their money had long been used up. They wanted to ask Li Chengyi for money, but Li Chengyi asked them back, Look at Baoning City, does it look rich? The general had no choice but to withdraw from the city. Meanwhile, Li Chengru secretly arranged Feng Sheng to send Jin Xiaoyu and Little Xun to the Tianshan tribe. ...... Jin Xiaoyu livedfortably in Feng Shengs house. There were food and bed, so she could cook herself. Little Xun would also help her prepare the food. As she cooked, he would tend the kitchen fire. Although he was clumsy, since he used to be spoiled and sheltered by a rich family, at least he offered help. Jin Xiaoyu wasnt tired neither. The two of them enjoyed the food they cooked. Just that they were not allowed to go out and felt a little depressed, as they had nothing to do after dinner. All that Jin Xiaoyu knew was how to cook a few dishes. She didnt know much about sewing. Neither did she like reading and writing, so in the free time all she did was to teach Little Xun martial arts. The house was not big but there was a small yard, in which there werent many flowers and nts, so they could practice martial arts. Although Little Xun was obedient and diligent in practicing martial arts, Jin Xiaoyu didnt have the patience to teach. Every day, she would only let Little Xun practice some basic skills, such as grinding the horse stance for the entire morning. She desparately wanted to go out. Chapter 275 - Why Would the Imperial Court Want a Child?

275. Why Would the Imperial Court Want a Child?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio One day, Feng Sheng came over and wanted to take them to somewhere else. Upon hearing this, Jin Xiaoyu burst intougher and said, For real? Where are we going? Feng Sheng replied, Tianshan tribe is far away from Baoning city. Those soldiers wouldnt follow us there. Even if they do, it will be easy to hide ourselves. Plus, we have our men there. Your men? Jin Xiaoyu suddenly chuckled, the Seventh Kings concubine? Or should I say... your lover. Feng Sheng was not used to this kind of tease, he just replied, Just the Seventh Kings friends. They own business there. Will it be boring? Jin Xiaoyu asked again. Feng Sheng answered honestly, That depends on their arrangement. Over there... everyone has to work. But you will be a newly arrived guest, so you wont have to work. Also, the Seventh King said that if you dont feelfortable living there, you are free to leave. The Seventh King will fund your trip. You had nothing to do with this matter, but you still chose to help me. Your are truly very chivalrous. Little Xuns incident was caused by the imperial court. The Sixth King and the Seventh King are supposed to take care of Little Xun, as they are men of the imperial court. Jin Xiaoyu thought for a moment and said, I am worried if you just send Little Xun away like this. Plus, Little Xun will not be able to quickly adjust to the situation. What if he is not treated appropriately or someone dislikes him? Let mee along. I will take a look first. ...... Tianshan tribe. Xiao Tongshu and Jia Zhenbo had just returned from Baoning city. It was evening and everyone was about to eat. Everyone was still sharing the same pot of meal in the public yurt. Seeing them return, the women then went to get their dishes and chopsticks. Squire Liu asked, Why it costed you such a long time to return this time? Normally, it would only take two days to sell out the goods. This time it took four days. Was there any difficulty in selling the goods? Not really! Jia Zhenbo replied to his father-inw, The soldiers were trying to catch someone in the City. Everywhere was in strict control. The people were afraid of getting into trouble so they just stayed inside. That was why it took us longer time to finish our task. Who do they want? Squire Liu asked. Jia Zhenbo said, Im not sure. It seems to be a child. Everyone was shocked. Why would the imperial court want a child?? I also want to know why. But there was indeed someoneing to me with a portrait of a child, asking me if I had seen this child. That portrait was not even clearly depicted. I dont even know the gender or age of the child. Doesnt all the child look the same? Round face, big eyes. Dont all the local children look like this? Squire Liu said, In that case, they want a local child. Jia Zhenbo said while picking up the food with chopsticks, Im not sure about that. Its just our business was influenced. But luckily, we sold it all out. Xiao Tongshu said, Right! When we left the city, the soldiers also withdrew. Maybe they didnt find the child they wanted. Everyone was puzzled about the reason of them wanting a child. Some people guessed that the child might be for sacrifice. Some ces had conservative thoughts, where there were still some witchcraft existing. Someone else guessed that the child might have stolen something from some important people. Their tribes information was not frequently updated. It was just like a fictitiousnd of peace, away from the turmoil of the world. No one knew what was happening outside. Except Xiao Baoshan. When he was in Beihui city, he heard that prime minister Xun and his grandson had escaped. During this period of time, with the help of Divine Physician Yu, he slowly recalled things one after another. Of course he remembered Ye Xiaoxian, he could also recalled some other things. This prime minister Xun, who he heard from the military, was an unique and outstanding minister who truly cared for the people. Xiao Baoshan heard more about him in Beihui city as well. Altogether, he realized that the little child might be prime minister Xuns grandson, while prime minister Xun was either gone or caught. Everyone chatted for a while about the child but didnte to a conclusion. They gradually lost the interest for this topic and started talking about something else. ...... After dinner, the women went out to clean the dishes and chopsticks while the men surrounded the yurt and enjoyed their conversations. Ye Xiaoxian didnt have to clean the dishes and chopsticks, instead, she went to verify ounting record with Squire Liu. Xiao Baoshan returned to his own yurt to rest. Until today, he had been living alone. Ever since he brought Ye Xiaoxian back from the horsing riding trip, they hadnt said a few words. However, as his memory was slowly recovering, previous things gradually became clearer and clearer. Little by little, like stones under water, slowly rising to the surface of the water. He also remembered that feeling. He remembered that he had given her the divorcing letter. He had written that letter in a very cruel way, so that she would be disappointed enough to forget him. Without any doubt, that letter hurt her very hard, even though his conscience didnt want him to do so. He still remembered their first time. After that, he took out a knife and asked her to kill him. Now he thought about it, how foolish he was. He even alienated her for a while because of the rules he had set. She must have endured so much pain under such circumstances. He med himself. The more he med himself, the more he denied himself. Now that she ignored him, he thought that perhaps he really wasnt her right one. All he could do was to hurt her. Therefore, Xiao Baoshan didnt behave like what he used to, hanging around Ye Xiaoxian all day. He was afraid she would be annoyed. In the tribe, everyone was confused. Why did the two of them keep at a distance from each other again? Didnt they go riding horses together? Howe they were at odds with each other after riding? ...... Ye Xiaoxian and Squire Liu finished verifying the ounting record and went outside. It was already dark. There was a candlelight in Xiao Baoshans yurt. Ye Xiaoxian paused for a moment, then she ignored it and returned to her own yurt. In the past few days, she had been mad at him. Of course, she didnt know why she was in a sulk. Perhaps she was mad because he and Jin Xiaoyu shouldnt have that kind of rtionship, though she knew it wasnt his fault. Men in this era were polygynous. There were even modern men cheated on their wives. Xiao Baoshan justmitted a mistake that every man in this world wouldmit. But she was still angry. Was she possessive? Or was she selfish and not tolerant enough? She didnt know whether it was her problem or not. Liu Qianqian once tried to persuade her not to be too stubborn. Women could throw a tantrum or make troubles out of nothing, but they couldnt keep being unreasonable and at odds with the men all the time. Otherwise, the men would eventually lose patience and deny himself. But Ye Xiaoxian couldnt convince herself. Over the past few days, Xiao Baoshan clearly didnt dare to mess with her nor get close to her. Sometimes, when they encountered with each other, he would stare at her with a very affectionate gaze, but he didnt dare to talk to her. Every time when she saw his gaze, she would feel a little softer. But as soon as she thought about their past, she would harden her heart again. Li Hongmei also wanted to say something, but Li Hongmei was her mother-inw and not her mother. She couldnt always persuade Ye Xiaoxiao in the mother-inws position, or else, Ye Xiaoxian would definitely be annoyed. Therefore, everyone could just leave them alone to fix their own problem. ...... The next day, everyone saw a carriageing from afar. It was Feng Sheng. They thought the person sitting in the car was Li Chengru. But when they arrived, they found that it was Jin Xiaoyu followed by a seven or eight year old boy. Eh, isnt this... Xiao Tieshu recognized Jin Xiaoyu. The others also had some impression of Jin Xiaoyu. After all, they had lived in Longmen Inn. It was just that some people could remember her and some couldnt. Liu Qianqian asked, Jin... Xiaoyu, right? Didnt you say that you would let go of Xiao Baoshan? Why would youe here? Do you want to be the homewrecker? Jin Xiaoyu on the other hand was also stunned when she saw Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian. Who would know that Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian were here? If she knew, she would nevere here. People didnt know why Liu Qianqian said this, so they asked her, What is going on? Had she tried to break up Baoshan and Little Ye? How? Squire Liu reacted first and said, Oh, didnt you say that Baoshan almost married some other woman before? Would she be the woman? Liu Qianqian said angrily, Its her. She said she wouldnt pester him anymore. Now here she is! Feng Sheng was also confused. How would he know all this drama? He just simply wanted to send Jin Xiaoyu here. Who would know they were old acquaintances and there seemed to be some conflicts. Jin Xiaoyu wanted to exin. But seeing there were so many of them, it would be beyond dispute, so she just couldnt be bothered to exin for herself. She nced at Xiao Baoshan and then at Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshan barely changed, he was still very calm. But he and Ye Xiaoxian were standing far away, they didnt seem like a loving couple. When Feng Sheng realized that everyone was ming Jin Xiaoyu, he quickly helped Jin Xiaoyu out by saying, I think there must be some misunderstanding. Why dont we sit down and talk about it? ...... People reluctantly entered the public yurt. Jin Xiaoyu took Little Xuns hand and walked in as well. Little Xun noticed everyones hostility toward Jin Xiaoyu and said to her, Sister, dont be afraid. If they dont take us in, we will go somewhere else. Jin Xiaoyu was annoyed now so she replied, Although the world is big, Im afraid theres no ce for us to live. But even so, I cant let people give you any hard time. His words melted Jin Xiaoyus heart. She figured that it would be better to talk things through and exin everything. She couldnt bear to see Little Xun have nowhere to go and spent his life hiding here and there. So, just as everyone sat down, she made a statement first. First of all, let me get things straight here. I dont know that you will be here. Feng Sheng said that his friend was in this tribe and asked me to bring my brother over to join you, so I came here. Squire Liu asked, But why would you need to join us? Isnt your inns business good? Feng Sheng said, They were chased by their enemies, thats why they escaped and tried to find ce to hide. Liu Qianqian snorted andmented, Thats because your inn is a gangster inn. Jin Xiaoyu didnt want to quarrel with Liu Qianqian. Instead, she said bluntly, No matter what the reason is, Im not here for Xiao Baoshan. Although Im not a good person, I do things frankly and straightforwardly. When I say I dont want this man, I mean I dont want this man. Even if he begs for it, I wont take him. So please rest assured. Nothing will happen between us anymore. Chapter 276 - Are You Afraid of That Uncle?

276. Are You Afraid of That Uncle?

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Seeing that everyone didnt believe in her, Jin Xiaoyu swore, I swear on my life, okay? If I were to badger Xiao Baoshan, I would be killed by being stricken by lightning. Feng Sheng thought about it for a while and finally figured it out. It turned out that Xiao Baoshan and Jin Xiaoyu had a rtionship before. He expressed support for Jin Xiaoyu, Didnt General Xiao get injured and couldt remember anything? So you couldnt just me her on this. If she knew that General Xiao was married, she might have sent him back to you. Wang Mudan asked Feng Sheng, Does she have to stay here? Cant she go somewhere else? Feng Sheng replied, She really has no ce to go, and this is what the Seventh King meant. For the Seventh Kings sake, can you take them in? The Seventh King would take care of all the expenses they need. Liu Yuanwai said, The Seventh King values her so much. I guess... the two of them must be very important to the Seventh King. Everyone immediately thought of some rumors about sex scandals. With Jin Xiaoyus charming appearance, it was not surprising that she could attract the Seventh King. Besides, Li Chengru was of much help to the tribe. If he wanted to hide two people here, they had no reason to refuse. After a moment of silence, Liu Qianqian said, But only us agreeing to keep them doesnt count. Baoshan and Little Ye must agree in the first ce. If they disagree, we cant take her in. Everyone looked at Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian didnt know why, so she threw the problem to Xiao Baoshan. You guys dont have to ask me. Just ask Xiao Baoshans opnion. If he said yes, then yes. In fact, she wanted to see how Xiao Baoshan would react. For any reason, Ye Xiaoxian would agree to take in the people that Li Chengru wanted to keep, regardless of Xiao Baoshans opinion. Therefore, everyone turned to Xiao Baoshan. Others might not know, but Xiao Baoshan knew very well that the little boy next to Jin Xiaoyu was not her brother, but Prime Minister Xuns grandson. He didnt know why Jin Xiaoyu saved the little boy but knew that he was responsible for protecting the child. Thus, he quickly nodded, I agree as well. After he said this, Ye Xiaoxians heart skipped a beat as if it was sinking. He agreed. He voluntarily agreed! Feng Sheng said, Since everyone has agreed, please take care of the two of them for the sake of the Seventh King and me, alright? No one objected. Ye Xiaoxian left the yurt quietly while Xiao Baoshan followed behind. ...... Ye Xiaoxian just wanted to have a rest at the hill but Xiao Baoshan followed. After so long, it was the first time that Xiao Baoshan took the initiative to talk to Ye Xiaoxian. He seemed very sincere, Little Ye, may I exin? Ye Xiaoxian didnt say anything so Xiao Baoshan said directly, That little boy is not Jin Xiaoyus younger brother. Ye Xiaoxian thought to herself, what does it have to do with me? It was better if you didnt exin, but as soon as you did, it would seem that you had a guilty conscience. I agreed to let Jin Xiaoyu stay, continued Xiao Baoshan, Not because I still, like her or maybe I want to marry several wives or something, but because I want to take care of the little boy. Ye Xiaoxian snorted coldly. What an absurd reason! That boy does not have an ordinary identity. He might be the descendant of a loyal minister from the imperial court who fled here because of persecution. However, it is improper for me to tell his specific identity. This is something that needs to be kept secret, so I told no one but you. Ye Xiaoxian thought to herself that even if he was the descendants of a loyal minister, there was no need for you to protect him. It was as if you were great and upright while the others were unaware. She remained silent. When he saw that she didnt say anything, he stopped talking and stayed besides her silently. Ye Xiaoxian thought it was quite boring, so she went to look for Li Hongmei and the others. Li Hongmei and Wang Mudan were gathering to arrange a ce for Jin Xiaoyu to live. Jin Xiaoyu was someone Li Chengru had designated them to take care of, so naturally, they must take it seriously and couldnt let her share the mattress with them. After all, she was raised up rich. Ye Xiaoxian also heard their discussion. Wang Mudan said, Hongmei, I think its better to ask Little Ye for her opinion. See where we should build their room. If its too far away, the Seventh King would be unhappy but if too close, Im afraid Little Ye would be unhappy. Chen Ju said, Eating is also a problem. Will they eat alone or with us? We have to ask Little Ye about this, otherwise she would be unhappy. Li Hongmei sighed, I dare not ask her. You didnt see her reaction just then. She clearly didnt want them to stay, so she left the question to Baoshan. But Baoshan already agreed. s... Lets just set up a room that is neither too far nor too close. As for dining, lets just give them a pot and the ingredients and let them cook themselves. Wang Mudan and Chen Ju decided to follow Li Hongmeis suggestions. However, Ye Xiaoxian walked in at this time. She pretended that she didnt hear them and asked, So you are nning to set up the yurt? Li Hongmei said, Ah...Yes. Yes, we found a small yurt. Since only the two of them will live in it, there is no need to set up a big one. We dont have enough for our own. Ye Xiaoxian asked again, Where are you going to set up this yurt? Well... Just build it near the ughterhouse. Its far away from us, but... not too far away. Itll be easier to find them if something happens. Ye Xiaoxian smiled, Why so far? Just stay nearby. They just arrived at the tribe and are not used to many things. They might need our help at any time. If its too far away it would be a burden for everyone. Li Hongmei was surprised. Ye Xiaoxian pretended to stay calm, Lets see if we still have extra cotton sheets. We can also send some over to them, as well as daily necessities. After all the Seventh King is paying for all of this. Next time when hees, well let him pay us back. Li Hongmei and the other girls stared at one another, wondering if Ye Xiaoxian had lost her mind. Ye Xiaoxian didnt care about them. Instead, she started to give themmands on what to prepare and went out to find someone to set up the yurt for Jin Xiaoyu and the child. Jin Xiaoyu also came out from the other room. Seeing that they were busy and Little Ye was standing in the middle as amander, she walked over to Ye Xiaoxian and asked, Is this the new yurt prepared for me? Ye Xiaoxian nodded. Jin Xiaoyu asked, Youre not edging me out. I thought you would let me live on the mountaintop. If you want to live there, you can. Ye Xiaoxian said. Jin Xiaoyuughed at once. Ill just stay here. It looks pretty good. Ye Xiaoxian didnt reply. Jin Xiaoyu added, I should thank you for taking me in. No need to thank me. You should rather thank the Seventh King and Xiao Baoshan. He agreed to let you stay. You deliberately threw him the problem. I didnt expect him to agree. You must be very angry now, but you cant me me. I promise I wont bother him. You can be sure about this. Even if there is something between you and him, I wont mind, because he and I are no longer husband and wife. Jin Xiaoyu was surprised, Its been so long, yet you still refuse to forgive him? I dont want to talk to you about this, Ye Xiaoxian said and went into the room again. ...... After Jin Xiaoyu and Little Xun entered their new room, which was actually a tent, they were quite satisfied. It was the first time the two of them had lived in such kind of room. The scenery here was beautiful, and there were children asking Little Xun if he wanted to go out to y. Little Xun was not used to it and refused. But he was still very happy. Little Xun, I will take you out to take a look at the scenery here, said Jin Xiaoyu. Little Xun immediately agreed. Jin Xiaoyu took Little Xuns hand and went out. Jin Xiaoyu was outgoing and open-minded. She looked around and asked others whenever there was something that she didnt understand. Men liked her very much, but women hated her and thought she was a slut. However, Jin Xiaoyu just did whatever she wanted, regardless of what others thought. She didnt care whether others liked or disliked her. She just wanted to know what the tribe people were working on. The ce for beef marination was stinky and she didnt like such jobs. Another team had brought back a bunch of wood they had just chopped. She didnt like this either as she was not strong enough. There was also the logistics team. She felt that these tasks were too trivial and she was unwilling to do it. Casting ounts and buying necessities for the tribe didnt sound bad. But at this point it was inconvenient for her to travel around, in case being recognized. On the other hand, she new that she couldnt be a freeloader and the only job she could do, then, was cotton-picking. Both she and Little Xun could do this. As she was walking, she met someone. Xiao Baoshan was in charge of carrying water to fill the tribes water tank, and now he was just walking toward Ye Xiaoxian with a bucket of water. When he saw her, Xiao Baoshan paused for a while and Jin Xiaoyu was stunned. At once, Jin Xiaoyu grabbed Little Xuns hand and turned around to leave. Little Xun even asked, Sis, are you afraid of that uncle? Jin Xiaoyu took a deep breath, No, of course not! Sis, your hands are trembling, Little Xun added. Jin Xiaoyu paused for a moment andughed, Maybe hes too tall, and hes skin is too dark. I can see that hes good at fighting. Little Xun, try not to piss him off in the future, ok? He doesnt look like a bad person. Bad persons wouldnt write the word bad person on their faces, right? Look at those who are chasing after us, do they have the word bad on their faces? Little Xun widened his eyes in confusion. Although the bad guys didnt have any words on their faces, they looked like bad guys. Anyway, whatever she said was right. I shouldnt make objections, in case she became angry. ...... Jin Xiaoyu took a short rest in her room before someone called her for dinner. It was alreadyte. Besides the female workers being busy outside, everyone else went into the public room for dinner. Chapter 277 - No One

277. No One

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Jin Xiaoyu took Little Xun over and saw twenty to thirty people sitting around the big table inside. She somewhat was not ustomed to this situation. She had never dined with so many people. Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian were also there. Both were sitting very far away and there were more than ten people between them. They seemed like strangers to each other. Out of politeness, as well as the need to show respect to Li Chengju, everyone still greeted Jin Xiaoyu politely, letting her take it easy and feel free to enjoy the food. Jin Xiaoyu was not a bit reserved, but too generous. She especially clipped her favorite dishes and even reached over with her chopsticks to refill Little Xuns bowl. She was very talkative, asking others where so much beef jerky, cotton and milk products would sell. Squire Liu told her that they had a transport camel team that could go to beihui city and go back and forth once a month. Jin Xiaoyu was so interested in this that asked who could go along. She also mentioned that she used to live in the desert and was very familiar with the surroundings. So she wanted to go there once with the team. Squire Liu said, We have a fixed number of people now. The team leader is the tribal chief Tarico, other members are his brother, Wang Wen, Wenwu, etc. However, little Ye and Baozhu had been there before. I heard that the journey was very tough. Jin Xiaoyu smiled while eating, I like challenging hard work. Jin Xiaoyu asked them again, Why are so many people still eating together? Isnt it much better for each family to eat their own? Squire Liu smiled and said, Our bazaar is small. If we are separated, each family has to send someone out to buy food. Wouldnt it be better if we buy and do it together? Furthermore, we are all working together now, and the schedule is unified. It looks like a family that we eat together after finish our work. Jin Xiaoyu understood. Because of her generosity and frankness, she was actually integrated into the two families soon. After meal, Little Xun would y with Baoxue and Baoyang for a while, while Jin Xiaoyu washed her face and wiped her body with a group of women. ...... Ye Xiaoxian didnt like to talk to Jin Xiaoyu, but Jin Xiaoyu liked to talk to her. Jin Xiaoyu could see that Ye Xiaoxian had a high status here. Everyone listened to her. Although she knew nothing about fighting skill and didnt look fierce, she had a tough personality, so Its easy to make others convinced over time. Jin Xiaoyu would ask Ye Xiaoxian if she had any questions. At first, Ye Xiaoxian ignored her and thought Jin Xiaoyu was too heartless. Their rtionship should be ipatible as fire and water, why Jin Xiaoyu didnt understand it? But after getting annoyed by being asked many times, she got used to it. On one hand, Jin Xiaoyu was thick-skinned, and on the other hand, she had high EQ and was generous. Whatever good things she had, she would generously share with other women. These women who disliked her at first gradually changed their attitude towards her. However, Jin Xiaoyu had a principle that she would never talk to Xiao Baoshan. Every time she saw him, she either avoided it or turned around to leave. That day, Jin Xiaoyu saw Ye Xiaoxian was making dairy and felt interested, and then she came over to help her for a while. Is this milk or goats milk? Jin Xiaoyu pointed at the semi-finished piece of milk and asked. Ye Xiaoxian didnt raise her head. Just try it yourself. Jin Xiaoyu took a piece and tasted it, then said, Full of mutton, I guess its goats milk. Would anyone eat this kind of things when they were sold to Zhongyuan area? Why do I bother to make it if no one else eats it? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Ye Xiaoxian had always talked harshly to her like that, but Jin Xiaoyu was already satisfied as long as she was willing to talk to Jin Xiaoyu. The milk must be boiled first and poured into a bucket after that. Let me help you. Jin Xiaoyu said, Its such a big pot. Dont get burned. Ye Xiaoxian asked her to help. They carried one end and poured the burnt milk into the bucket. What are you doing next? When the milk is cold, then filter, Ye Xiaoxian said. She could make the milk cake while waiting for the milk to turn cold. Jin Xiaoyu followed her again, intending to help. At this moment, Xiao Baoshan happened to draw water. Jin Xiaoyu immediately stepped aside. Xiao Baoshan wasing here specially for Ye Xiaoxian. He had worked here for so long that they had a tacit understanding towards each other. After the water was drawn, half was poured into the pot for Ye Xiaoxian to wash the pot while the other half was left for her to boil another pot of milk. As soon as Ye Xiaoxian saw Xiao Baoshan came, Jin Xiaoyu immediately stepped aside. There was an indescribable feeling in her heart. Xiao Baoshan ignored Jin Xiaoyu and left with an empty bucket after pouring water. Jin Xiaoyu came back and would help Ye Xiaoxian make the milk cake. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help asking, Why do you hide every time you see Xiao Baoshan? Jin Xiaoyu smiled. What else can I do? I eat your food and live in your yurt. If I keep pestering Xiao Baoshan, wouldnt I be a shameless slut? Ye Xiaoxian asked, Are you just afraid of what others say about you? What about your own thoughts? Dont you like him anymore? Why do I like him? In the past, I didnt know that he had a wife, but now I know, why would I keep pestering him to piss you off again? Are you two still having a fight because of me? Ye Xiaoxian sneered, Its not your fault. It was hisck ofposure that made him unable to hold himself in front of a big beauty. I forced him, alright? He didnt remember anything but only remembered a woman cooking for him in his dream. I guessed that woman was you. However, I saw him being stupid, easy to bully, and had no inordinate ambitions towards me. I thought he should be a good man, so I forced him to marry me. Force? Ye Xiaoxian was confused and couldnt help asking. Of course, I lied to him. Once he drank, I took off his clothes when he was drunk. He thought that he took my virginity, so he agreed to marry me. Otherwise, he wouldnt have been nice to me. The milk slice was suddenly turned into a milk ball in Ye Xiaoxians hand. You two hadnt... done it? Of course not. He didnt want to. No matter how I seduced him, he said that he would not do that kind of thing unless we got married. Ive never seen such a man of determination. Jin Xiaoyu added, You cant have been kept a distance with him because of this, right? Hey, Im telling you, theres no need. If hes really a flirtatious person or greedy for my beauty, I wouldnt have liked him either. And I dont like him anymore, so you can have him wholeheartedly. Ye Xiaoxian said angrily, Im not that into him. Dont say it too early. If you two dont have a closer rtionship, he might really run away. I dont care! Ye Xiaoxian said. Jin Xiaoyu gave up persuading her. She only said, Its all up to you. Ive said everything that should be said anyway. ...... At night. Ye Xiaoxian went to the toilet. When she came back, she subconsciously nced at the yurt of Xiao Baoshan. The oilmp was still on. Thest time the camel team went out, Xiao Baoshan asked Wang Wen and Wang Wu to help buy some books. Wang Wen and Wang Wu bought arge pile of books out of gratitude. Xiao Baoshan was working during the day and studying under the light at night. Now that his conditions were better, he was not afraid of wastingmp-oil. He often read until midnight and got up to work the next morning. In short, he seemed to have endless energy. Chapter 278 - Watch the Stars

278. Watch the Stars

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Ye Xiaoxian walked towards Xiao Baoshans yurt unconsciously. Halfway through, however, she suddenly stopped. She felt that she was being silly. They had been silent for so long that they had already gotten used to it. And now she tried to please him? No, she shouldnt take the initiative. Just at this moment, Doctor Xiao brewed a bowl of medicine for Xiao Baoshan and sent it to his room. Ye Xiaoxian stopped and went back to her own yurt. ...... At this time, Jin Xiaoyu was inside her yurt. She lifted the curtain and looked up at the starry sky. The sky was beautiful, even more beautiful than the one in the desert. The night of the desert had nothing else besides the stars and the boundless desert. But here, there were also meadows, snowy mountains, and the unknown flowers and nts on the meadows, as well as rivers. Sis, what are you looking at? Little Xun climbed over and sat with Jin Xiaoyu. The stars. Then, Little Xun also looked at the stars and blinked, Sis, my mom said that after one dies, he will be a star in the sky. Jin Xiaoyu smiled. Your mom lied to you. If such a beautiful starry sky was filled with dead people, how terrifying would it be? Little Xun shivered. Jin Xiaoyu chuckled again. Alright, your mom will definitely be watching you from the sky. She might not be a star, but she knows what you are thinking and doing. You have to be a very great child in the future and try not to make your mom disappointed, okay? Little Xun nodded, but his eyes were filled with tears. Jin Xiaoyu added, Youre a strong man. You have to learn to grow up alone in the future. Dont cry so often. If others bully you, you have to fight back. Dont be a doormat. I dont like doormats. Little Xun nodded again and asked Jin Xiaoyu, Sis, where are your parents? My parents? They probably died long ago. For a long time, I had grown up alone. Later, I met my master, but he also passed away. Since then, I had be all alone. Sis is so brave, Little Xun said with admiration. Well, in the future, you should be better off than I am because there are people who want to protect you, so you will definitely be safe and sound. At least, you dont need to worry about food and clothing. But you cant be toozy, either. You have to help others. Dont make people think that you are a yboy that does nothing besides sleeping and eating. Little Xun asked, Sis, are you leaving? Otherwise, why is she handing over so many things? Jin Xiaoyu smiled. Where can I go? Youre still here. But one day I will eventually leave, so you have to be prepared. When you grow up and be a great man, dont forget about me. Little Xun leaned his head against Jin Xiaoyusp. Sis, dont leave me. I only have you now. You are the best person to me. Jin Xiaoyu stroked his head and continued to look at the starry sky. She wanted to leave, but couldnt bear to do so. Little Xun still needed more time to get used to it. ...... After taking the medicine, Xiao Baoshan fell asleep. But he woke up in the middle of the night. After waking up, he was still sweating. Doctor Xiaos treatment was very effective. He could remember more and more things recently, including his past on the battlefield. He always dreamed of those who died-the way they died, those who protected him and blocked the sword for him. In half of the year since the tragedy, he had always wanted to end his life. Butter, he changed his mind. He wanted to go back to figure out exactly what had happened, so he could take revenge for them. However, the Imperial Court had been begging for peace after that and he had no chance. Now that he had lost his memory but finally remembered those things, he felt like they just had happened yesterday, as if the faces of the brothers, with blood all over, were right before him. He couldnt fell asleep so he went out to sit for a while. The night was very quiet at this time and he sat down on a hill. Who knew that there was a ck shadow right there and a smell of wine floating over. Who is it? asked Xiao Baoshan. The shadow paused a while before turning around. Under the dim starlight, they looked at each other and didnt know what to say. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt sleep either, so she picked up half a jar of wine to drink on the hill. She didnt expect that Xiao Baoshan woulde as well. Neither did Xiao Baoshan expect Jin Xiaoyu to be here. He knew that he should turn around and leave at this time, but when he smelled the wine, he still asked, Why are you here? Why are you here? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Xiao Baoshan did not say anything. Jin Xiaoyu sneered, Of course, Im here because I cant sleep. Arent you the same? If Xiao Baoshan was here, then she should leave. A man and a woman meeting in the middle of the night C if someone were to encounter them, the situation would be hard to exin. Jin Xiaoyu picked up the wine jar and pretended to be chill, Im leaving. Ill leave this ce to you. Theres still half a jar of wine. Do you want to have it? Xiao Baoshan declined, To drink away the sorrow is even worse. Nevermind. Jin Xiaoyu walked away. As Xiao Baoshan looked after her, she was stumbling. If it was another person, he might have helped, but he didnt. He just watched her walk back to her room without saying a word or doing anything He sat on the hill. Jin Xiaoyu returned to the room and climbed onto her bed, resisting to make any noise. Little Xun slept soundly. She didnt want to wake him up. However, as soon as she lied down, Xiao Baoshans face and the night they spent together appeared to her. She lied to Ye Xiaoxian and told her that nothing happened that night. But in reality, only she knew what happened that night. Well, lets just pretend that nothing happened. ...... Daytime Everyones life returned normal. Ye Xiaoxian was still extremely busy while Xiao Baoshan worked in silence. Jin Xiaoyu, on the other hand, was giggling all around, not being serious. However, Jin Xiaoyu had consciously taught Little Xun to be close to the people of the tribe, especially Ye Xiaoxian. Whenever she went to find Ye Xiaoxian, she would bring Little Xun with her and let Little Xun call Ye Xiaoxian sis. Ye Xiaoxian didnt reject Little Xun. Little Xun was neither humble nor arrogant and had a temperament that was neither pleasing nor ttering. He was rather polite and kind. She remembered that when she first met Li Chengru, she felt that Li Chengju had a sense of nobility, and so was Little Xun. Thinking of what Xiao Baoshan had said, Little Xun might have an extraordinary background. He might really have fled to their ce and needed them to temporarily protect him. She thus took care of Little Xun on asions, without showing that she did it on purpose. Little Xun also liked Xiao Baoshan. Although Xiao Baoshan had a stern face, there were brush, ink and books in his room. Little Xun would asionally go inside to look through the books. At first, because of Jin Xiaoyu, Xiao Baoshan avoided Little Xun, being afraid that Ye Xiaoxian would be jealous again. However, Little Xun came so often, so he taught him a few words asionally. Little Xun learned quickly and was d to learn, so he went to Xiao Baoshans room even more often. Chapter 279 - I Wont Beat a Woman

279. I Wont Beat a Woman

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup Jin Xiaoyu felt a little relieved when she saw that Little Xun got along well with the tribe quickly. Apart from Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan, Jin Xiaoyu often do errands with Little Xun for a group of women, such as cotton-picking. In the past, Jin Xiaoyu wouldnt do something like this. Why did she, a kid in her seven or eight age, need to kiss up to an adult? However, it was different now. She felt like she would leave one day, anyway. Once she left, Little Xun would have no people to rely on. She couldnt let that happen. Thinking of the kind prime minister who was born with integrity and dignity, and the group of heroes in the outside world, she couldnt leave such a lovely kid here. Until that day, Li Hongmei found Jin Xiaoyu. Li Hongmei had been keeping an eye to Jin Xiaoyu for a while. She was mainly wary of Jin Xiaoyu and didnt let Jin Xiaoyue together with Xiao Baoshan. Otherwise, she wouldnt know when Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baoshan would be reconciled. After observing for a while, Li Hongmei didnt notice that Jin Xiaoyu did something crossing the line. She didnt even talk to Xiao Baoshan. However, since Jin Xiaoyu asked Little Xun to be close to everyone, Li Hongmei wondered if Jin Xiaoyu wanted to get close to Xiao Baoshan by making use of the kid. Even though the child was innocent and particrly lovely. One day, Li Hongmei saw Jin Xiaoyu chatting and joking with a few guys and she could tell they obviously liked her. Therefore, Li Hongmei was worried again, what if Xiao Baoshan couldnt resist the temptation? Li Hongmei walked towards Jin Xiaoyu as she walked over. Boss, can I have a talk with you? Li Hongmei asked. Jin Xiaoyu smiled. Im not your boss any more. You can call me Xiaoyu or Xiaojin. Li Hongmei smiled and took a look that there was no one around them. Xiaojin, whats the rtionship between you and the Seventh Royal Highness? Jin Xiaoyu raised her eyebrows. What do you think? Or you can tell me what the people said in the tribe. What does they think of our rtionship? About this, the people here had discussed it earlier in private. It was Feng Sheng who brought Jin Xiaoyu here and directly said that Jin Xiaoyu was to live here in the future. Therefore, people here all guessed that Li Chengzhu might like Jin Xiaoyu and wanted to keep her as his lover. Even though Li Chengju was a very arrogant person, it was impossible for such a noble man to have no lovers outside. The Emperor in the pce had lovers outside when theye out for a private interview. Besides, Jin Xiaoyu looked pretty good. Jin Xiaoyu saw that Li Hongmei kept silent and asked, I understand. You think I have something to do with him as well. Luckily, Li Hongmei knew about brothel before. Otherwise, she would have thought that Jin Xiaoyus words were vulgar. Li Hongmei said, Actually, I just want to talk about the rtionship between you and the Seventh Royal Highness and Xiao Baoshan as well. If you were arranged by him, then we have nothing to say. You can stay here for long, but if you dont have that kind of rtionship with him, I think... Are you worried that Ill hook up with Baoshan again? Jin Xiaoyu spoke so directly all the time. On the contrary, Li Hongmei felt a little awkward. Jin Xiaoyu said frankly, I have nothing to do with him. However, I came here because of Little Xun who had something to do with me. Li Hongmei suddenly smelled the gossip. So, Little Xun and the Seventh Royal Highness are... I dont know the specifics, but its must be rted, Jin Xiaoyu didnt want to deny that. Because the more mysterious background he had, the more they felt that he was rted to the Seventh King, the better for her Little Xun. Li Hongmei thought about for a while and felt that Little Xun was not simple. He was either the Seventh Kings bastard son or the Sixth Kings. Then she looked at Jin Xiaoyu. Since you have nothing to do with the Seventh King, are you here just for Little Xun? Yes, if someone takes good care of him for me, then I can leave. He was not my biological siblings. Jin Xiaoyu knew what she wanted to ask. Sure enough, Li Hongmeis eyes lit up and she didnt take the initiative to say anything before Jin Xiaoyu directly said it. I will help take care of him. Everyone in our tribe will do. Li Hongmei promised immediately. Jin Xiaoyu smiled. Since thats the case, I think its time for me to leave for a while, but I havent thought of where to go for now. Ill think about itter. Li Hongmei smiled out of courtesy. No rush, no rush. Take your time, think about it before making decision. You have toe back often to see us in the future. Jin Xiaoyu turned around and smiled bitterly. ...... In the afternoon, Jin Xiaoyu asked Little Xun to pick up the vegetables for Li Hongmei and the rest. And he could y with Bao Yang and Bao Xue after he finished this. Jin Xiaoyu, on the other hand, with nothing to do, borrowed their horses and walked aimlessly on the prairie. The yurt in the tribe were sparse. Apart from the fact that people from central ins liked to live together, the other peoples yurt were rtively evacuated. She didnt know why she just arrived at the Camel Teams headquarters. The people from the Camel Team came back a few days ago. Jin Xiaoyu had lived here for a long time and knew about them. But she was still really shocked to see dozens of camels. She couldnt help but get off the horse and go over to see the camels. They were very quiet, honest, clumsy, diligent, and not picky on food, just like she liked it. She was stunned while looking them unconsciously. As she looked carefully, a voice suddenly came from behind her. Do you love it? Jin Xiaoyu turned around and saw a handsome local young man in his twenties. The young man looked a little cynical, but she can tell he was a good boy after she ran an inn and saw all kinds of people for a long time. Do you say Chinese? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Of course, Tarico raised hid eyebrows. Your raised your camels pretty well. Let me think about it, you are... Riardo? Anyway, I often hear them talking about you, saying that youre the n leader of Camel Team, right? Tarico frowned, Who said that Im Rardo? Maybe my memory is wrong. Im not good at remembering names, so sorry. Jin Xiaoyu smiled. She had been tanned in the tribe these days, and her smile seemed very bright. In addition to her open-minded personality, her smile was very unrestrained. Tarico said, I also heard that a beautiful woman came from your side. She loves to talk andugh just like the girls of our tribe, and she is not restrained at all. Oh, that must be me, Jin Xiaoyu was not humble at all. Why have you been looking at my camel just now? Tarico asked again. Just like it, what? Cant I have a look? Of course you can, Tarico was about to feed the camel as he moved over a few dried leaves and sprinkled them in front of the camel. Jin Xiaoyu also went to help. Hey, Rardo I heard that the camel team was going to cross the desert and stay in the desert for more than ten days. When will you get started next time? Tarico paused and continued, Im not Rardo. My name is Tarico. Tarico, okay, I remember. You havent answered my question yet. Tarico said, Were heading out in a few days, waiting for the resources to be ready in your side. Bring me with you, Jin Xiaoyu added. Tarico rejected immediately, We dont want women. Are you kidding me? I heard that Yezi and Baozhu had been there too, as well as Liu Qianqian . When she mentioned these women, Jin Xiaoyu obviously saw that Taricos expression froze a while. Am I wrong? Jin Xiaoyu asked. She guessed that Tarico had something to do with these women. Tarico fed the camel as he said, Thats all in the past. Now the Camel Team has rearranged and there are no woman. Besides, we are all men and its inconvenient for you to be there. How? Is it inconvenient to pee or poop? Didnt all of you just dig a pit in the desert? Tarico looked at Jin Xiaoyu in surprise. He had never seen such a straightforward woman in central ins. I am a rough person. Apart from that thing, everything else is as the same as a man. Let me go with you guys and I promise that Im not going to trouble you, Jin Xiaoyu said. She couldnt stay in the tribe every day, anyway. Now she could follow the Camel Team first for a while. When Little Xun got used to the days without her, she can go further away. Tarico still rejected, Thats impossible. This is too dangerous. We even met bandits once. If it werent for Xiao Baoshan, we might have died inside. Whats fear about bandits? Just beat their ass. You can do it, why cant I? Youre a woman... Tarico took a look at Jin Xiaoyu up and down. Even though Jin Xiaoyu wasnt thin and weak, she was quite feminine. It seemed like she didnt know how to fight and was the kind of girl who needed men to protect. Whats wrong with the woman? Do the people in your Tianshan tribe take women as men? How about this, lets have a fight. If I win, let me join the Camel Team, okay? Tarico smiled. I wont fight with a woman. Cut the crap. Watch! Jin Xiaoyu moved without further words. Tarico almost didnt have time to get away, but then he came back to earth and took a few steps back. I told you, I dont beat women! Tarico said. Then, just wait to get beaten by a woman! Jin Xiaoyu rushed over again. The other people came out after hearing the sound outside. They were surprised to see Tarico fighting with a woman. This was the territory of the Camel Team. Because of the Mahals poisoning events, everyone would guard against outsiders and prevent suspicious people from getting close to the camel. Now there was a woman who even started fighting with Tarico. So, thisdy also wanted to poison or steal a camel? The others wanted toe up to help but Tarico shouted, Its none of your business. Ill do it myself! Chapter 280 - Dont Be Too Stubborn

280. Dont Be Too Stubborn

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Jin Xiaoyu sneered, I wont be afraid of you even though they all join in the fight! She knew martial arts of Zhongyuan area. Her fighting skills and positions were full of charm, and her Light kungfu was also great. Although she was not very strong, her movements were lithe. Taricos forehead began to sweat after more than ten rounds of fighting with her. He looked down on this woman. She wasnt weak at all. He had to exert all his power in order to not lose face in front of his brothers. After more than ten rounds, Tarico was at a disadvantage. Jin Xiaoyusst few moves hit his pain point, but she didnt use her whole strength. Instead, she let him know that his martial arts were inferior to her! Tarico didnt want to keep fighting either. His self-esteem was strong, but he couldnt always suffer the beat. He stopped fighting first. Okay, I lost! Jin Xiaoyu also withdraw and smiled at him. Then you say, do I fit in with the camel team? Its fine if youre not afraid of hardship, fatigue, or danger. Jin Xiaoyu smiled smartly, Remember to inform me when we sent off. Of course, I will be there even if not being informed. I wont let you run away alone. Then, she waved to the other brothers and said goodbye with a smile. ...... Tarico, who is she? Mcginon asked. Tarico shook his sore arm and said, She is from Zhongyuan area and wants to go to the desert with us. Ah? Would it be inconvenient to take a woman with us? Mcginon asked. Tarico said, Let her have a try. Maybe she will cry and go back halfway. ...... Zhongyuan People were surprised when they heard that Jin Xiaoyu had a fight with Tarico and join the camel team. Jin Xiaoyu was usuallyzy, went back to sleep with half of her work left. She would go with the camel team unexpectedly this time. Li Hongmei felt a little guilty when Xiao Baozhu mentioned this in the yurt. She thought that it must have something to do with her. If she hadnt said those words with Jin Xiaoyu, Jin Xiaoyu wouldnt have gone to the desert. But it actually had nothing to do with her after thinking again. She said as put away her clothes sun-dried, Isnt it just a trip to the desert? Whats the big deal? Little Ye had been there before, Baozhu and Baoshan had also been there. All of you could, so why couldnt she? Besides, it was just a trip with no work to do. Wang Wen and Wang Wu could help her in case of danger. Ye Xiaoxian didnt say anything. If Jin Xiaoyu didnt want to pester Xiao Baoshan, then she would leave sooner orter. The tribe wouldnt be able to trap her. She had no reason to feel a hint of sympathy. They should have been enemies, but Ye Xiaoxian didnt hate her at all, instead of thinking that she was a pitiful person. Ye Xiaoxian thought about it and took out her equipment that she used to the desert before, such as a gauze hat, mask, and other boots suitable for walking in the desert. Oh, Little Ye is so polite, Jin Xiaoyu said, I was just about to ask you what you should bring when you walk in the desert. Ye Xiaoxian said, These are all things that I used to sew on myself. I dont know if it is suitable for you including the boots. I see that we are almost the same height and the shoes should be simr. Jin Xiaoyu was trying Ye Xiaoxians boots while Little Xun was watching quietly. Ye Xiaoxians feet were slightly bigger than Jin Xiaoyus, but it didnt matter a bit longer. More riding camel in desert and less walking, its fine to rece a pair of it when they came to Beihui city.. Thats a good fit. Jin Xiaoyu said with a smile, Its so rare that you care about me. From the first time I saw you, I knew you was not that kind of petty woman. Fortunately, I liked you at that time. Ye Xiaoxian said simply, Dont tter me. Jin Xiaoyu added, You still wont forgive Xiao Baoshan? I see you guys have not been talking much recently. Listen to me, women are cute when they are stubborn timely, but if they keep stubborn, they will scare the man away. Men are all one-track minded. He will deny himself and dont think he can please you any more if you have always ignored him. I didnt like him either. See, youre being stubborn again, Jin Xiaoyu said, Dont me me for not telling you. Besides, didnt his memory slowly recover? He was an ambitious man. He has been staying here because he liked you. When he remembered everything and theres no response from you, he would go to where he should be. Where is he supposed to go? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Who knows, he might go to the battlefield as a general, or might be a counselor by the side of the Sixth King. He cant always stay here and wait for you who will never look back. Ye Xiaoxians heart trembled suddenly. However, she still pretended to be indifferent. I am sleepy and wont talk to you anymore. Rest early. The desert is not asfortable as here. There isnt even a bed to sleep in the desert. Jin Xiaoyu smiled and watched Ye Xiaoxian out. ...... After Ye Xiaoxian went out, Jin Xiaoyu asked Little Xun, Do these look good on me? Little Xun nodded, Good-looking! He always thought that Jin Xiaoyu looked good in anything because Jin Xiaoyu had a very good smile. Sure enough, you know me. Its good to have someone who likes you in life. No matter what you wear, he feels that you look damn good. But I havent met him yet. Even if I dress as a bride, he still wouldnt give me a second look. Little Xun was puzzled. Why not? Isnt he? However, Little Xun also had a question, Sis, you just advised Sis little Ye to be reconciled with Uncle Baoshan earlier. Do they have a fight? Yeah, Sis little Ye is angry with brother Baoshan. Little Xun, try your best to get them together in the future. Advise them to have a good chat if you get the chance and tell Sis little Ye not to hate Brother Baoshan anymore. Otherwise, Brother Baoshans illness will hardly recover. Little Xun didnt see where uncle Baoshan was sick, but there was a doctor Xiao in Uncle Baoshans yurt. He often take medicine to Uncle Bao Shan and acupuncture. Little Xun asked, How can I get them talk more? Jin Xiaoyu tapped on Little Xuns forehead with her fingers. That depends on your ability. Think about it yourself, okay? If she could think of it, she would have done it long ago. Little Xun nodded again. ...... Ye Xiaoxian came out of Jin Xiaoyus yurt and happened to bump into Xiao Baoshan toe out to pour water for washing feet. His trouser legs were curled up and he wore a pair of wooden clog. He was stunned when he saw little Ye. Little Ye also felt stunned on the spot. Xiao Baoshan said first, Not rest yet? Chapter 281 - Plain Relationship

281. in Rtionship

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Mm, ready. Then theres nothing more to say. He also didnt know what to say, because little Ye was always treating him coldly. He was afraid of offending her again due to saying the wrong words. Little Ye stood there for a while and said, Its gettingte. Its time for me to go back. You should go to bed early, too. Xiao Baoshan nodded but didnt turn back immediately. Instead, he stood on the spot and watched little Ye go back to her yurt. He didnt return to his yurt with the bucket until she entered. ...... Jin Xiaoyu left for the desert with Tarico the next morning. All she wore was given by little Ye, so Tarico gave her a few nces when she first climbed onto the camel. Mcginon also said, I didnt see it clearly just now. I thought it was little Ye. Tarico shifted his gaze back and got on the camel. Lets go. Wed better start early. We have to reach the first rest stop before dark. Jin Xiaoyu was riding on the camel. Their team slowly left the tribe, out of the pasture and then came to the bare ming Mountains. She didnt look back all the way, just looking at the scenery along the road. The camel had a spirit to follow therge army all the way, so she didnt need to hold the reins all the time like a horse did. She simply set herself aside and just looked at the scenery along the way, and boldly thought about the man she had always wanted to see but didnt dare to see. She hoped him well with all her heart. ...... After Jin Xiaoyu left, Little Xun had been sitting on the pasture and then gawked at the direction Jin Xiaoyu left, didnt move for a long time. The women who were busy on the grass saw this and couldnt help but start discussing, This Little Xun is a young man but he values about friendship a lot. I heard shes not even his own sister. Little Jin is really nice to him, right? I see that she would share with Little Xun as long as she had any good thing. But how long will he be there? It was windy on the meadow and if Little Xun sits there still, I was afraid he might catch cold... Later, when Ye Xiaoxian passed by, someone asked her to persuade Little Xun to go back to the yurt earlier and not sit on the meadow all the time. That was the tuyere, he would be runny nose for blowing a long time. Ye Xiaoxian looked at Little Xun, who was sitting on a small abrupt haystack. His small body curled up into a ball and just sat there nkly, looking absolutely heart-wrenching. She could not help walking towards Little Xun and sat down beside him. Little Xun turned to look at her. His eyes were red but he didnt cry. Little Xun, do you miss your sister Jin Xiaoyu? Ye Xiaoxian held his shoulder and asked. Little Xun nodded, looking quite upset. Ye Xiaoxian coaxed him, She will be back soon, and she will take good care of herself. There are so many people in the camel team and they are all men. They will protect her. Little Xun whispered, I know. He just couldnt bear to part with her. Ye Xiaoxian smiled again. I went to see your sister Xiaoyust night. Do you know what she said to me? Little Xun blinked his big eyes, of course he didnt know. She said that you were the one she worried about most in this tribe. She goes out with the camel team this time, also to see if you can work on your own. See if you can take care of yourself without her. Little Xuns eyes lit up. Little Ye added, Not getting ill is also a sign of taking care of yourself. Its easy for you to get sick if you sit here and bear the blowing wind all the time. When Sis Xiaoyues back and knows that you get sick, shell be angry. Little Xun realized his problem and seemed a little ashamed, I wont get sick. Not now, what if you get sick when you return? You must take care of yourself during the period that Sis Xiaoyu is not here, eat well, sleep well, dont get sick. When shees back and sees you happy, she will be happy too. Little Xun also boasted that he was a sensible child. After Ye Xiaoxians reminder, he was instantly refreshed and rose from the grass. Thats right! Ye Xiaoxian said. They walked back, holding hands. Little Xun suddenly remembered Jin Xiaoyu told him that Little Ye and Baoshan were having a fight, so he needed to help them make up with each other. Then Little Xun took Ye Xiaoxian by the hand and said, Sis little Ye, follow me to somewhere. Where? Little Ye asked. Youll know when you arrive. Little Xun also didnt know how to be a matchmaker. He wasnt a kid with a lot of tricks. The only thing he thought he could do was to get the two of them together, then they could y. Just like him and Baoyang, they had a little fight yesterday morning and didnt talk with each other. However, Yang Xue suggested to y together and they immediately be friends again as before. Little Xun pulled Little Ye in front of the yurt of Xiao Baoshan. Little Ye was surprised. Just as she was about to ask why she was brought here, Little Xun shouted, Uncle Baoshan, are you here? Come out. Little Ye, ... Xiao Baoshan was about toe out to work, Little Xun shouted and he came out. He opened the curtain of the yurt and hesitated for a while when saw Little Xun and Little Ye standing outside. Little Xun pulled Little Ye inside. little Ye didnt want to go in at first, she couldnt resist the Little Xuns pull, but entered with him. Perhaps Little Xun had his thoughts and she could help him. She couldnt bear to refuse him as he was just so lost. Besides, she wasnt hostile to Xiao Baoshan now, so there was no need to avoid him deliberately. The three entered the yurt and Little Xun let Little Ye sit on a small stool. Then, he pulled Xiao Baoshan to sit face to face with Little Ye. Then Little Xun said directly, Sis Xiaoyu said that you two had a fight recently and she wanted me to help you two make up with each other. Both of you are adults and should understand each other, so you dont have trouble. Do it now if you have something in your heart to say to each other, speak out and all the contradictions will be resolved. Xiao Baoshan, ... Little Ye, ... Little Xun felt that his task had beenpleted and wont be able to stay here any longer, so he quickly ran out alone. Inside the yurt, Xiao Baoshan and Little Ye were looking at each other in speechless despair eyeball to eyeball, just felt extremely awkward. It was Xiao Baoshan who said first, Are you thirsty? Shall I get you a ss of water? No, I just had it, Ye Xiaoxian said. She didnt want to drink water at this juncture. Instead, she kind of wanted to go to thetrine, probably due to nervousness. Then Xiao Baoshan gave her a few toffee, motioned for her to eat them. She was fed up with this kind of toffee herself since it was upgraded by her on the basis of the tribe. However, she still took it and chewed it in her mouth. She saw that there was still a medicine bucket in his room, then asked, Did you take a potion bath? Yeah, I have to soak a bucket every morning. Are you feeling better now? Did you remember anything in the past? Ye Xiaoxian had not asked him about his illness for a long time. Xiao Baoshan nodded. Most of them came to mind. Thats good, Ye Xiaoxian also sincerely hoped that he would recover soon. Xiao Baoshan added Youve been quite busy these days. Well, I dont think so. Im used to it. Then Ye Xiaoxian brought up the topic about Little Xun and said, Little Xun needs to be taken care of recently. Its not good to sleep alone in a yurt at night. You also live alone. Are you okay to let hime to live with you? Xiao Baoshan looked at little Ye with a million doubts on his face. Live with Little Xun, okay? But he still nodded and said, Okay, at your disposal. Talking about here, it seemed that the conversation hade to an end, and they didnt know what to talk about. Ye Xiaoxian stood up and said, There is still a lot of work outside. Im going out first. Alright! Xiao Baoshan responded slightly, but his gaze didnt shift away from her at all until she left and disappeared from his sight. ...... Little Ye, why did you let Little Xun live with Xiao Baoshan? Liu Qianqian asked. Ye Xiaoxian was helping Little Xun pack things and said, Little Xun is quite small and needs to be taken care of. No need to let him live with Baoshan. You can let him stay with your grandfather or... Liu Qianqian didnt continue. Anyone could see that Little Xuns temperament didnt fit with other people but Xiao Baoshan. Liu Qianqian added, Now that Jin Xiaoyu isnt here, why are you still having a fight with him? You two should be living together. What will you do then if you let Little Xun live with Xiao Baoshan? Ye Xiaoxian didnt know what to do either. She didnt want to live with Xiao Baoshan now. During this period of time, she neither hated him norined about him. She didnt even like him. The two of them were like rtives, and they even didnt know what to talk about when they met. Live together? It was too weird, it was better to separate. Liu Qianqian was so anxious that he stomped his feet, Ah, Im driven crazy by you guys. Forget it, I wont care about you anymore. If you continue to mess around like this, there will be a day of regret! ...... Li Hongmei was also asking about Xiao Baoshan, Why are you staying with Little Xun? Little Xun cant sleep alone at night, then I cane, Baozhu or Baoyang can also keep himpany. Its Little Yes suggestion, Xiao Baoshan said. Then you let her mess around? Youre a man and dont take the initiative. Perhaps Little Ye just to test you by saying this and ask you to take the initiative. Who knows that you still dont understand her mind. Xiao Baoshan thought about it and felt that little Ye didnt mean that. She just wanted him to take care of Little Xun. Li Hongmei sighed. You guys really wasted the opportunity Jin Xiaoyu gave you. s. Xiao Baoshanforted Li Hongmei instead. Mother, anyhow, I feel guilty to little Ye. I will do whatever she wants me to do now. Chapter 282 - The Lost Child

282. The Lost Child

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio You just let her mess around! She is well-behaved. She is not messing around. Li Hongmei stomped her feet angrily like Liu Qianqian did. I wont care about you two anymore! ...... In the desert. Jin Xiaoyu and Tarico went along quite well. She would do whatever Tarico and others did, eat whatever they ate. At first, everyone thought that she would make trouble and be fussy along the way because of her beauty, but Jin Xiaoyu was even rougher than a man and could also involve in their chat easily. These men were always mannerless before, but they restrained themselves a little because of this woman in the team. It turned out that Jin Xiaoyus personality was the same with these mens and could even talk to them about women, so they were not overcautious. Jin Xiaoyu did almost everything except rotating the night shift with them. Her reason was that women was easy to get old if they always stayed upte. She would divide water and food for the team during the day. She ate fast, then she would find a sand dune and sit on it to look into the distance when others were eating. In fact, only sand could be seen. No one knew what she was looking at, so they whispered. Wang Wen said, She looks rather blue. Wang Wu, She has something on her mind. Mcginon asked, Do we need to ask someone to ask her if theres something wrong? Tarico immediately refused. Tarico said, Shes not easy to mess with, and it seems that she doesnt want to be disturbed by us. She wille by herself when she really needs to talk. So they left Jin Xiaoyu alone. The journey of the desert was so tight that everyone had no time to rest and sleep. How could they waste their time chatting? ...... The camel team finally arrived at Beihui City. Jin Xiaoyu donned her veil and entered the town with the camel team. The guard already knew Tarico and greeted him, Quite early this time. Yeah. Hey, why is there a woman? A girl from our tribe who wants toe out and see the world, Tarico said. Because the garrison was familiar with Tarico, they let him go without questioning him too much. Jin Xiaoyu entered the town and inadvertently nced at the bulletin board of the city gate. She saw a portrait of her own with the word wanted written on it. However, it was put up a long time ago. And her portrait had already been almost covered by other criminal suspects recently. Revealing only half of her face and the word gold below. She was now dressed as a woman in Tianshan tribe with a veil, so the guards couldnt recognize her naturally. At the post house, she went to wash herself and then slept. Tarico and the others were going to unload the stock. Since Jin Xiaoyu was a woman and they didnt dare to call her out to help, they let her go to bed. ...... Jin Xiaoyu slept until evening. She was a little dazed after woke up. It had been a long time since she opened her eyes and saw the simple roof of yurt. She only saw tent and sand the first ten days or so. It had been a long time since shed seen this kind of house with beams. She almost thought she was still in Longmen Inn. As she heard the noise outsideter, she slowly realized that she was in Beihui city, the most prosperous ce except the capital. She opened the window. Although it was alreadyte, the streets outside were still bustling with people. Even livelier than the day, with snacks and stall peddlers everywhere. She dressed up as a woman from Zhongyuan, tied her hair again, and then went out with the silver. She first walked around the street and bought a lot of things, including hairpin,b, Rouge powder, etc. Then she felt very hungry. Tarico had reminded her that they would eat separately because some liked to go out for snacks and a few liked to wander the flower streets, so Jin Xiaoyu naturally couldnt hang out with them. Jin Xiaoyu went to a bistro, ordered two appetizers, a pot of wine, then drank alone. ...... Tarico was currently wandering on the street. The brothers went to brothels, but he went there once and felt bored, so he went out to eat alone. Coincidentally, he entered the pub where Jin Xiaoyu was drinking. Jin Xiaoyu was drinking when she saw Tarico, then greeted him. Taricos eyes lit up and he didnt expect her to be here too. Tarico walked towards her and Jin Xiaoyu pointed to the stool beside her, motioned for him to sit down. Would you like to have a drink together? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Sure, Tarico said unceremoniously. He picked up the ss on the table and poured himself. Then he called the waiter to stir-fry two appetizers. He was a man, always embarrassed to eat girls food for free. Why are you alone? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Tarico smiled, They all went to brothels for fun. Then why dont you go? Jin Xiaoyu raised her eyebrows. Its boring. Is it no interesting to have fun in brothels, or you have been to brothels too many times that you feel bored? Jin Xiaoyu added, If you get bored with a certain brothel, just change to another one. You can always find someone you like around a bevy of young girls. Taricoughed, You know men well. I can also help you find one or two to make you happy, said Jin Xiaoyu. Not necessarily, Tarico smiled still, then picked up his ss to drink. Do you have a girl you like? Do you worry about going to brothels will make you feel guilty to her? Jin Xiaoyu asked again. Ye Xiaoxians figure shed in Taricos mind. However, he knew he couldnt miss her anymore, so he said with a smile, No one. The moment of your hesitation betrayed you. Haha, really? Tarico didnt exin and only was drinking. Jin Xiaoyu was not afraid of angering him, so he continued to ask, Is that person little Ye? Tarico paused again and looked at Jin Xiaoyu wonderingly. Your facial expression betrayed you again, Jin Xiaoyu giggled, You have a good taste. She is indeed a good woman. But it is a pity that the man she likes is not you. Obviously, she likes her husband, Tarico drank two more cups. Jin Xiaoyu patted him on the shoulder. There is nothing wrong with liking someone. Thats out of your control, but you did a great job not bothering her. As long as you are willing to let go, you will definitely meet someone suitable for you in the future. Seeing that Jin Xiaoyu was so eloquent, Tarico asked, What about you, you dont have a husband, do you have someone you like? Jin Xiaoyu cast him a charming smile, Make a guess. Brothers said that you might have been abandoned, so you look unhappy, Tarico said bluntly. Jin Xiaoyu used arms akimbo and felt that Taricos words were too direct, but she had to admit that he was right. Alright, you are right. Then were even. Cheers for nobody likes us! Their sses met. They drank together into the night unconsciously. Both were a little tipsy when they went back in the evening. The streets were quiet, and cold as it waste autumn now. Jin Xiaoyu stumbled a bit as they walked back together. She nearly lost her bnce and fell off when she went up the stairs of the post house. Tarico was sharp-sighted and swift, instantly grabbed her waist and brought her in front of him. He didnt expect her waist to be so soft. With a gentle movement, she fell into his arms, a fragrance rushed into his nose. He was stunned. He hasnt had such a close touch with a woman since he got closed to little Ye in the storm. Of course, those grils in the brothels didnt count. Jin Xiaoyu looked mature and full of feminine charm, but there was a faint fragrance on her body, like a blooming rose, dripping with water. The moment she bumped into him, he could feel her softness even more. Tarico looked at her in amazement. Jin Xiaoyu reacted first, but she was not angry. She just smiled and gently pushed him away. Then she said, Thank you, you really are a graceful man. She went upstairs after pushing him away and then threw him a charming smile when she walked around the corner. Tarico suddenly remembered Jin Xiaoyus words, As long as youre willing to let go, youll definitely meet someone suitable for you in the future. He suddenly felt the sound of flowers blooming around him like a prairie in spring, blooming overnight. ...... Imperial court. State preceptor went to see Li Chengshen. Li Chengshen asked, Has the grandson of the prime minister Xun been found? State preceptor sighed, Several groups of men had been sent out to look for, but none of them found him, and the clues are gone. I assume he was wandering in the boondocks in Baoning City. Li Chengkun said while correcting the memorial, Forget it. Prime minister Xun is already dead after all and he is just a child. He wont make any big waves. He will be protected by the people of Ganghood at most, who may teach him martial arts, so he wille to seek revenge in the future. However, there are quite a few people who havee to seek revenge recently. No one is able to survive the Yulin Guard. The state preceptor also said, Yes, that little child is not worth mentioning. Li Chengkun asked again, How is the situation in the north? State preceptor said, The situation is under control, the Emperor doesnt need to worry. In fact, the so-called situation was just to send troops to suppress it, not to quell the rebellion at all. Li Chengkuns intention wasnt to quell, otherwise it wont pursue. If they wanted to quell the rebellion, there would be a war or it would be difficult to suppress the anger of the people there. He did not think it was time to use force. ...... State preceptor came out of the Emperors pce and went to the empress dowagers chamber. The matter between the two was no longer a secret in the pce, and rumors also spread outside the pce. However, after prime minister Xun died, no one dared to criticize them in person, so they became more brazen. When they met, empress dowager looked a little unhappy. Why havent you been here for so long? Its all because of the old man, prime minister Xun, had dismissed three groups of my men in order to hunt him down. Still havent found him yet? His corpse was found, but his grandson ran away. Just let it be. A child wont make any threat to us. We should show some mercy. Empress dowager suddenly began to mourn as mentioned here. She had a child with the state preceptor before she entered the pce. In order to please thete emperor, state preceptor offered her to thete emperor. Their child was secretly sent out of the capital city, Then it disappeared. Chapter 283 - Yan Ziyan

283. Yan Ziyan

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio What are you thinking about? the state preceptor asked as he hugged the empress dowagers waist. The empress dowager pushed him away and said unhappily, We could have had a baby. Its all your fault that you didnt take good care of him. Now it is unknown whether the child is alive or dead. The state preceptor was also a little annoyed when he thought of this, Yeah, its all my fault. I wish I hadnt sent the child so far away, but I searched everywhere, but I couldnt find it. Hum, its okay for you. Anyway, you also have your own family and children even if without that child. I only have an adopted child. But your foster son became the Emperor, the state preceptor said, Isnt it better than anything? You have be the most honorable woman in the world, and the entire harem follows your orders. After all, hes not my flesh and blood. He wont be close to me. Shh, its just fine to say such words in front of me. Dont let outsiders hear it. People will gossip. The empress dowager was still unhappy. State preceptor hold her in his arms again. See what I brought you. What? Ites from a tribe in Baoning city, made by rams horns and used forbing hair. Its said that it can help the hair grow longer and better. Empress dowager took theb and seemed to feel better. Shey in state preceptors arms and said, s, if the child is still alive, I must bring her to the pce and let her enjoy the glory and wealth. ...... To the north of Great Qi Dynasty. Heihe city had be a living hell ever since seized by the Northern Qing Kingdom. People from Northern Qing Kingdom beat, smashed, plundered, burned, raped and piged here, killing innocent lives. Some refugees who survived fled towards the Linglong County. They thought that the Linglong County was also a part of the Great Qi Dynasty. However, after they fled here, they found that the city gate was actually closed for not allowing refugees to enter. The refugees were trying to rush in by force, but overnight this ce was suddenly heavy-guarded. The defense against refugees was stronger than against the soldiers of Northern Qing kingdom. This was the state preceptor order. The capital city was located in the south of the Linglong County. If the Linglong County fell into the enemys hands, the Great Qi Dynasty would be at risk and the burden would be very heavy. Granaries would be opened to relieve the refugees once they flooded in the Linglong County. But these granaries would notst for many days. Then those refugees would plunder in the city and chaos would ensue. Once the Linglong County was in a chaotic situation, more refugees would enter the capital city, and the situation would be more unstable. State preceptor thought Northern Qing Kingdom should ughter the city since the Heihe city had been lost and Great Qi Empire also should give up these refugees. For a time, the people who escaped from the Heihe city were gathering in front of the city gate, screaming in pain. One of refugees was a man called Yan Ziyan. He was not a native of the Heihe city. He just went to Heihe city to deliver a letter as entrusted by a friend. Unfortunately, Heihe city was attacked by Northern Qing Country soon after he arrived there. He escorted his friends parents to escape, and now they just arrived at the Linglong County. These refugees had been starving for several days. They thought that as long as they escaped from Heihe city, they would be safe in the Linglong County. Who knew the Linglong County was so well guarded that even a fly couldnt enter the city. The refugees dared not toin, only wailing about their plight. But Yan Ziyan was furious. He shouted under the gate, Is there any justice in this world? We have been living in the Great Qi empire for generations. But the imperial court didnt protect its people, and even though we had fled here, you still refuse to let us in. Are you going to watch us die from starvation outside the city? The refugees also began to chime in with him, Ah, can you show us a way to live? I cant imagine we would die in the hands of our own, instead of those people from Northern Qing Country. You are all demons and the Emperor of the City is a fatuous ruler! ... At first, the soldiers werepletely indifferent when they heard the wailing of the refugees, butthey got furious once they heard those refugees scolding the Emperor. One of the leading guards picked up a bow and shot an arrow towards the refugee who had just scolded the Emperor. Shot through the heart, the refugee immediately fell, spouted a mouthful of blood and died before saying a word. An innocent life was finished in a second. The people below immediately became quiet and stared nkly at the dead refugee. They had seen many dead for so long, but he was the first to be killed by their own. They were suddenly resigned to their fate. They would die no matter what they do, escaping or resisting. They could only look up to the heaven, hoping that God would be able to give them a slim chance of survival. Yan Ziyan clenched his fists tightly while looking at the dead refugee. After a while, he suddenly shouted, Since the Linglong City does not take us in, lets go. Guys, follow me, I do not believe that God will not give us a way to live. The refugees stared at Yan Ziyan. Behind them was the Heihe city, with the soldiers of Northern Qing Kingdom. The Linglong County in front of them was not allowed to enter, so where could they go? Yan Ziyan said, Wed die anyway sooner orter. Follow me if you trust me, otherwise just wait here! The refugees had nowhere to go so they just followed him. Thousands of refugees, old and young, men and women, all walked behind Yan Ziyan. ...... In fact, Yan Ziyan was not sure that he could help the refugees survive. Heihe city was behind them, and Longling County was in the front, then he would have to go west. To the west were high mountains, one after another, with tigers and beasts lurking inside. So they might not be able to survive if they went there. Besides, these refugees were already hungry and had no strength left since they had made their way here. However, they would be dead anyway, so why not try their luck to the mountains? The refugees followed Yan Ziyan for a while, knowing that Yan Ziyan definitely wanted to take them to the mountains. They knew that the deep mountains were also ominous, but they had nowhere to go except going up the mountain. They might be eaten by wild animals in the mountains, or might starve to death because they couldnt find anything to eat. Also, some people were already at theirst gasp and might not be able to make it into the mountain. However, Yan Ziyan seemed to have a natural leadership. After he made the call, all refugees followed him into the mountain. Some dying were carried by stronger ones. They helped each other to climb the mountain. The soldiers guarding the city were confused. The originally crowds were now slowly dispersed, then they left the city gate gradually and going west. Where are they going? someone asked. The west is Daxing Mountain. They want to escape into the deep mountains. Humph, they will be eaten by the tiger. Just get lost so we dont have to be on guard all the time. Keep watching, in case they suddenlye back. ... ...... It seemed that they were blessed by Heaven. More than 1,000 people led by Yan Ziyan actually found a way to survive after arriving at the mountain. This area was surrounded by mountains. asionally, some vigers would go up the mountain to collect firewood, and some medicine boys woulde to collect medical herbs. People had also heard that there were beasts on the mountain, so normally people seldom came up to the mountain. Not long after Yan Ziyan and others went up the mountain, they found a wild pear tree. The pear tree was full of fruits and the branches were almost bent. They were instantly excited. Yan Ziyan was also good at kung fu and immediately summoned a few people who could climb onto trees to pick wild fruits. Even though there were many people, it was still enough for one for each. Yan Ziyan said that no looting was allowed, and everyone would have one in order. Anyone who grabbed food would have nothing to eat. The autumn pear had a lot of water. Although it was not as sweet as the one grown by farmer, it was able to relieve hunger and thirst. Some people even swallowed the core. After they had the pear, their strength were replenished to some extent and they continued to go up the mountain to avoid being chased by soldiers. After walking up the mountain for a while, they sessively found some other fruit trees. Yan Ziyan picked up some fruits and shared them with others. One mountain after another, they climbed over one mountain and walked through a river. The river could relieve their thirst. There were fish in the river, and wild vegetables were on both sides of the river. Some refugees had brought pots along with them. They used the pots to cook fish and a bundle of wild vegetables. The food made in each pot was enough for twenty people. At first, some wanted to grab food, but they were stopped by Yan Ziyan. He said that all of them were trying to survive. Anyone who wanted to snatch food selfishly would not be allowed to follow the team. People would easily be eaten by the beasts on the mountain if they left the team and walked on their own. No one dared to snatch food from then on. Who dared to act alone in the deep mountains? Yan Ziyan divided the refugees into several groups: one was responsible for cutting wood, one was responsible for picking wild fruits and wild vegetables, and some were responsible for hunting. There was a lot of wild animals in the deep mountains. As long as they had some skills, they wouldnt worry about having no meat to eat. After eating some food and having a good rest, the refugees gradually regained their physical strength. They had built a few rows of wooden houses at the foot of the mountain, and their days were slowly getting better. ...... Tianshan tribe. That day, Qian Qi came. Qian Qi was here to visit Xiao baoshan. Doctor Xiao had been here for so many days and gave Xiao Baoshan two months to recuperate, he would soon recover. Xiao Baoshan was gradually getting better indeed, and he could recall most things. General Xiao... Qian Qis thoughts wereplicated. At first, he hated Xiao Baoshan, butter, he admired him very much. When he learned that Xiao was willing to give up his life to protect his family, he felt even more grateful. Xiao Baoshan had always had a gentle personality. First, he invited Qian Qi to sit in the yurt, then he asked Xiao Baozhu to bring Little Xun out for fun, and he personally cooked milk tea for Qian Qi. I only have milk tea here. General Qian, are you used to drinking it? Of course. We are all vulgar and rough men. Wed drink whatever we could get. Besides, this is milk tea, not raw water. Think about what we drink when were on the battlefield. We even drank human blood, I mean enemies blood, of course. Qian Qi then asked Xiao Baoshan, By the way, do you still remember what happened on the battlefield? Last time I saw you, you didnt remember anything. I remembered most of them, Xiao Baoshan said. Did you remember the fourth lord and my big brother before? Qian Qi asked again. Chapter 284 - Training Soldiers

284. Training Soldiers

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio They are the people I respected the most in my heart, and I would never forget them in my life. Xiao Baoshan said with a serious face. Qian Qi was very excited when he heard this, drinking up the milk tea as if it was alcohol. Qian Qi added, They were killed by the people from the Beiqing State in the first ce. F**king Beiqing, I dreamed that one day I could lead soldiers against them and beat their ass. Baoshan did not say anything and only silently drank milk tea. In his opinion, this opportunity was very slim since they were garrisoned the west, unless imperial court was deployed. But after going to Beihui city, he knew that the court would send the princess to their hostile country and kill ministers who were brave enough to remonstrate to the court rather than dere a war. Qian Qi added, There was a irritating news recently. The imperial court saw that Heihe city had fallen and did not send soldiers to help. After Heihe city was lost, they sent soldiers to guard the Linglong County and did not allow refugees to enter the city, so that the refugees had to flee into the deep mountains. Im afraid that Daqi fief will be in chaos sooner orter. Xiao Baoshan asked, Why would the new emperor be so fatuous? I think he might want to stabilize the political situation. If we dont win, then we will give the Beiqing State a reason to continue attacking the south. Once they arrive at the capital city, his throne will not be maintained. Baoshan frowned, How do you know without a war? Yeah, he assumed that our country would be defeated even without starting a war. What was even more strange was that refugees were not ced in the city. Now, people on the side must not talk about life, lived in misery and suffering. Baoshan sighed. Qian Qi had been observing him all the time. See Baoshan sighing, Qian Qi thought Baoshan must have felt depressed and asked, What will you do if we have the chance to join the army again? Baoshan did not think about it, Of course, pledge my life for our country. Good! Qian Qi pped his thigh and added, Then please follow me to a ce. Youll know when you get there. Baoshan was confused, Where? A ce you will definitely love! Qian Qi said. ...... Baoshan was still recovering, so he needed permission of the doctor Xiao if he wanted to go out. The doctor said he was almost healed, and the doctor has stayed here for a long time, it is the time for him to return to Zhongyuan Area. So he would follow them to Baoning city first and then from Baoning city to the north. Under the permission of the doctor, Baoshan went to greet Li Hongmei. Mom, Im going out with General Qian. Where are you going? Li Hongmei asked anxiously. Ye Xiaoxian and Baoshan were there, including Little Xun. Baoshan said, Baoning city, General Qian invited me and wille back in a few days. Oh... Li Hongmei said, Then... then you go. Youve been in the tribe for so long, and its time for you to go out. Whats more, you... your body is pretty much better. Go ahead. Li Hongmei looked at Ye Xiaoxian as she spoke. Ye Xiaoxian didnt say anything. Baoshan was here to talk about this, so he would definitely go out. Baoshan also nced at Ye Xiaoxian and told her, Ill be back in a few days. Go, have fun, Ye Xiaoxian smiled slightly. He also greeted her, meaning that he cared about her thoughts. They quickly cleaned up the carriage, grabbed a few clothes and went on their way. ...... The few women watched Baoshan leave at the entrance of the yurt and saw that their carriage was further and further away until it slowly disappeared from sight. Li Hongmei then looked at Ye Xiaoxian and said, I dont know why. I have a bad presentiment that Baoshan will continue to travel far away from home in the future. Just like before, he will be gone for a long time. Ye Xiaoxian actually had the same feeling. Baoshan usually stayed in the tribe, as if he had no sense of existence at all. When you see him, you would think that he would stay here forever and would never leave. However, it was Qian Qi who came to see him. After chatting for a while, Baoshan decided to leave with him. If it wasnt for something important, he wouldnt have left in such a hurry. Ye Xiaoxian suddenly felt empty and uneasy in her heart. But she thought again that Baoshan was an independent person with his own mind. How could the women in their tribe keep him here? Before this, he was willing to stay because his family was here, but in his mind, there might be something more important than his family. Forget it, whatever it would happen, just let it be. ...... Baoning city. Qian Qi, Baoshan, and the doctor Xiao went to see the Sixth King and the Seventh King first. The Sixth King had set up a banquet to entertain them, which was also to say goodbye to the doctor Xiao. After the doctors leave, they talked about the imperial court and the war in the north. All of them were worried. Baoshan then asked Qian Qi, Didnt you say you wanted to take me to a ce? Where is that ce? Qian Qi kept catching Baoshans interest. No rush, no rush. That ce is a bit far. Its sort ofte now and well head over tomorrow morning. ...... Baoshan could only wait. That night, he stayed at the Sixth Kings residence and saw Xiao Baofeng. Xiao Baofeng had been studying with the sons and daughters of the Sixth King. For living in others home and his humble background, he particrly strove in studying. Now, his knowledge had surpassed the Sixth Kings children. The Sixth King was not jealous, nor was he suppressing Xiao Baofeng. Instead, he hired another teacher to teach Xiao Baofeng alone. The effect of one-to-one tutoring was even more obvious. The teacher said that he could be admitted to cultivated talent in less than a year. When he saw Xiao Baoshan, he first bowed to Baoshan, Hello, brother. Xiao Baoshan smiled, So polite? Teacher taught me it. Its a little aloof, Xiao Baoshan smiled, You dont have to be polite to me. But he did not dare to act out of the line. He usually had spoken and acted cautiously and didnt venture in this residence. Xiao Baoshan added, How have you been? Im good. Everyone here treats me very well. Xiao Baoshan touched the head of him. He knew clearly how it felt to depend on other for a living. The more thoughtful he was, the more cautious. However, there was no other way. The Sixth Kings residence was a royal pce and there were fewer rules in Baoning city. If they were in the capital city, there would be more rules. Its really hard for you to do so,e out to study at such a young age, said Xiao Baoshan. When they entered the house and stayed alone, Xiao Baofengs eyes turned red. He asked, How is mom, and sister-inw? How about Baozhu and the rest? Theyre all pretty good. Now they live in a better life in this year, and they have enough money on hand and enough meat on table. You are studying alone outside, it would be very tough, though. However, as long as you get over it, you will make a difference in the future, so you have to stick to it, anyway. Xiao Baofeng nodded and said, I will. Brother, what are you doing here? asked Xiao Baofeng. In his teens, he was already very sedate in talking and had his own mind. Xiao Baoshan came over before and left quickly, but this time he came alone and obviously was for something. Baoshan touched his head, I have no idea for now. General Qian took me here for something. I guess well see it tomorrow. Lets have a good chat tonight. Xiao Baofeng immediately showed a cheerful look. ...... The next day, Qian Qi prepared a carriage early to pick up Xiao Baoshan. There were a lot of desserts and pastries made by Old Mrs. Qian in the carriage. They said that they couldnt buy them anywhere else. In fact, Xiao Baoshan did not say that it could be made in their tribe. Ye Xiaoxians cooking skill was better than anyone else and the dessert she made was better than others. However, Xiao Baoshan epted it politely and decided to eat along the way. The ce Qian Qi was going to visit seemed very secretive. The two of them first went to an inn and changed their clothes. Then, they walked out from behind and all the way out until they got horses to pick them. Riding horse all the way arrived at the foot of a mountain, they entered a prison and saw some prisoners in prison clothes working outside. Xiao Baoshan was confused. Why would Qian Qi take him to this prison? Are there were some important criminals in the prison? After entering the prison camp, Qian Qi took Baoshan into the barracks. The room was dark and all the prisoners were working above, so it was empty inside. At the end of the room, Qian Qi touched some kind of mechanisms inside. At this moment, a wall slowly opened and Qian Qi said to Baoshan, General Xiao, this is the ce I want to show you. It turned out that there was a hidden spot inside the wall. From the outside, it was a normal prison, but there was still arge space inside, and one could hear the sound of training inside. At a rough nce, there were seven or eight thousand people. These people were practicing lineup. The people who trained them were just several capable generals of Qian familys . Little ck, whom was saved by Xiao Baoshanst time, was also there. Little ck saw Baoshan and Qian Qi and immediately ran over. General Qian, General Xiao, youe here? Xiao Baoshan understood that they were training here so that they could develop their own army. He was in a surprise. He didnt expect there were so many people. A war usually didnt rely on numbers but on elites. As long as they trained well, 10,000 people could resist 100,000 people. Qian Qi looked at Baoshan and smiled slightly. This is why I told you that we can return to the battlefield. Speaking of which, the reason why we were able to develop so many soldiers is because of your wife. Thanks to your wife and the Seventh King organized this camel team together, we wouldnt have had so much money to support this team. Xiao Baoshan felt a sense of pride in his heart. Looking at these soldiers again, he was both excited and cheerful. This was the most exciting thing he had ever experienced since he got his memory back. He desperately wanted to return to the battlefield, and it seemed he was belong to the battlefield. Chapter 285 - I Dont Like Little Boys

285. I Dont Like Little Boys

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup Xiao Baoshan stayed in the prison camp for a few days. In fact, those who worked hard outside the prison camp were also their own people, not actual prisoners. During this period of time, Xiao Baoshan, Qian Qi and some of Qian Qis best men worked together on the method of arranging troops to improve theirbat capabilities. ...... The Tianshan Tribe Ye Xiaoxian and the female workers were picking cotton. One of the female workers asked Ye Xiaoxian, Hey, it seems that I havent seen your Baoshan for many days. Where is he? Ye Xiaoxian paused, then said, He went to the county and will be back in a few days. Yesterday, I saw Little Xun sitting alone in the meadow. He must be waiting for Baoshan toe back. Little Xun is a poor little boy. His sister wasnt in the tribe, and he lived with Baoshanter on. Now Baoshan has left as well. Has he been living alone recently? Ye Xiaoxian said, Yeah, my mother originally said that she wanted to live with him, but he said that he had grown up and could live alone, so we didnt force him. Being independent since childhood is not a bad thing though. Thats true. A seven or eight year old child isnt afraid of wetting the bed. Let him sleep by himself. The weather is getting colder and colder now. Im afraid that hell lift the quilt in the middle of the night... At this moment, a gust of cold wind blew through and Ye Xiaoxian shivered. She felt a sudden pain in her heart as she thought of Xiao Baoshan. From the day he left, she didnt specifically count the days, but the number of days just kept shing in her mind. Today seemed to be the eighth day. It had been eight days but he hadnte back yet. ...... At night. They were already nning to go to bed. Li Hongmei was making the bed and she suddenly said, Why hasnt Baoshane back yet? Did something bad happen in Baoning City? Ye Xiaoxians heart skipped a beat again. Xiao Baozhu said, Mom, the Sixth King and the Seventh King are in Baoning City. What can ever happen? Nothing! The Second Brother is summoned by General Qian. Maybe the two of them just clicked right away and are talking their ears off right now. Oh well, Im exactly afraid of this. Last time, Baoshan helped General Qian Qi pick up his family and almost lost his life. If Baoshan were to save someone again this time, then... Hey, why do my eyelids twitch again? Ye Xiaoxian had alreadyid down. After hearing Li Hongmeis words, she couldnt help but holding the quilt tighter. She felt her eyelids twitch as well. Subconsciously, she reached for the emerald hairpin next to her bed and held it tightly in her hands. ...... Fortunately, Xiao Baoshan came back at noon the next day. A group of people immediately surrounded him and asked about the reasons they had gone to Baoning City for so many days. Xiao Baoshan said that he had spent some days reminiscing with Qian Qi, then the Sixth King kept them there for a few more days. They were too enthusiastic that they couldnt refuse but to stay for a little longer. The family let out a sigh of relief. It seemed that Li Hongmei was too worried. Hopefully Qian Qi didnt ask Xiao Baoshan to do anything else. Otherwise, she wouldnt be able to stand it. On the other hand, Councilor Liu was not worried about Xiao Baoshans safety. He said, I thought the Sixth King saw that Baoshan was cured, so he wanted to keep Baoshan in Baoning City to help him. Baoshan is so talented that the tribe is too restrictive for him. Liu Qianqian joked, In fact, it doesnt make too much of a big deal to live in the tribe. The man has been on the battlefield for such a long time that its time to live a stable life. If his wife and children can warm the bed for him, it wouldnt be such a bad thing, but Im afraid that he has never enjoyed such privilege. Everyone understood that Liu Qianqian was implying that Ye Xiaoxian was being indifferent to Xiao Baoshan. Therefore, everyone looked at Ye Xiaoxian one after another. Ye Xiaoxian was a little embarrassed so she rebutted Liu Qianqian, For some people, its simply not enough for the wife and children to warm the bed. They have to get up in the middle of the night to look at the stars, and the cold weather is never an excuse. You see, you caught a cold today, didnt you? How... How did you know that? Liu Qianqian was even more embarrassed than Ye Xiaoxian. She and Jia Zhenbo indeed went to see the starsst night. They couldnt sleep in the middle of the night. Liu Qianqian thought of the romantic plot in the drama and wanted to see the stars, so Jia Zhenbo had to go with her. Eventually she caught a cold and was sneezing all the time. She didnt go out this morning because she had to stay indoor to take the medicine. Ye Xiaoxian smiled, If you dont want others to know, better not do it . Everyone immediately turned to Liu Qianqian. This was pretty funny. Liu Qianqian was probably going to beughed at for a long time. Xiao Baoshan wasughing as well before he nced at Ye Xiaoxian, when, at the same time, Ye Xiaoxian also looked at him, but only for an instant before they turned away. ...... After dinner, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Hongmei were staying in the room. At this time, Xiao Baoshan came over too, asking for permission to enter. Li Hongmei immediately let Xiao Baoshan in. Baoshan, are you full for dinner? You didnt seem to eat much, Li Hongmei was worried that Baoshan wasnt full. Xiao Baoshan said, Im full. Mrs. Qian gave me a lot of things to eat on my way back. Oh right, theres still some food left. There were a lot of people during the dinner so I didnt take it out. Here, Ive brought some to share with you guys. They are just some cakes and desserts. Ye Xiaoxian took a look. The pastries are ced in an exquisite box. It looked like they hadnt been moved, unlike what Xiao Baoshan said, that they were leftovers. Baoshan, are you having fun these days? Li Hongmei asked. Of course Im happy, Xiao Baoshan paused before adding, Qian Qi hoped that I can go there again next month. Its just that winter is almost here and we have nothing to do, so I might stay in Baoning City for a while. Uhh... Li Hongmei looked at little Ye. Ye Xiaoxian quickly withdrew her gaze and pretended to be indifferent. The issue here is that little Ye needs to agree on this. If little Ye disagrees, then you... well, discuss it over yourself. You two will make the decision. Ye Xiaoxian asked, What does it have to do with me? His feet didnt grow on me. If he wants to go, then go. Xiao Baoshan said, If theres nothing else to do, little Ye can stay with me in the city for a while. Ye Xiaoxian immediately refused, Im not going. Im busy even in winter. I have to prepare for the necessities for next spring. At this time, Xiao Baoshan thought of Qian Qis words. The reason why they could secretly prepare the army was because Ye Xiaoxian made the money for them. He couldnt help but walk towards Ye Xiaoxian with passion in his eyes. Ye Xiaoxian immediately took a step back. Why was he so close? Li Hongmei was still here. Li Hongmei realized that Xiao Baoshan was taking the initiative, so she quickly said, Ah, I wonder if auntie and the rest have washed the dishes. Ill go take a look. Li Hongmei walked out of the room like a gust of wind. Now, there were only two people left in the house and Xiao Baoshan was standing so close that Ye Xiaoxian felt that the air in the room froze, even making it difficult to breathe. Xiao Baoshan was indeed very close. She had no where to go from the back but to sit on the bed. What if he pounced on her? Impossible. With his personality, it was unlikely that he would do something like this. Little Ye! When Xiao Baoshan was only one step away from her, he suddenly talked to her. Hmm? She said with her face blushing. You are a particrly capable woman. Ye Xiaoxian didnt know why Xiao Baoshan would suddenly praise her. She was indeed capable, but it wasnt the first day he knew about it. Little Ye, Xiao Baoshan said again, After going to Baoning City, I saw the Sixth King and the Seventh King doing a lot of good deeds for the people with the money you earned. Oh...ok, as long as theyre really doing stuffs, Ye Xiaoxian said. She didnt expect that there would be a day that she could contribute to the people. She felt particrly proud of herself. Are you willing to go to Baoning City with me next time? He asked again. Was this an invitation? Ye Xiaoxian bit her lip. This subtle and nervous action particrly attracted him. No, no, there are a lot of things to do in the tribe. If I go, Councilor will be very busy. Besides, its not like Ive been to Baoning city City, and theres nothing fun. Seeing that she wasnt willing to go, Xiao Baoshan didnt force her anymore, but he took another step towards her. Ye Xiaoxian moved back again. This time, her feet tripped onto the wooden bed. She lost bnce and was about to fall back. Xiao Baoshan, on the other hand, held her waist instantly and brought her towards him. Ye Xiaoxianpletely lost her mind. In a situation like this, what she had been thinking could easily leak out. She actually didnt resist him at all, especially after a short time of separation, she realized that she had been worried about him. As they looked into each others eyes for a while, Xiao Baoshan suddenly approached and kissed her. ... Ye Xiaoxian was nked out. She felt weak and that her body no longer belonged to herself. Xiao Baoshan let go of her after kissing for quite a while. Both of them gasped. Xiao Baoshan looked at her again and said, Youre the only woman Ive loved in my life. Without waiting for her to answer, he turned around and left. Ye Xiaoxian froze on the spot and then he sat on the bed. She didnt know what to do but felt like her whole body was filled with blood and her face was burning. ...... In the desert. The wind was blowing at night. The camel team had departed for two days and now they were in the middle of the desert. This night, they rested in front of a sand dune. When she arrived, Jin Xiaoyus tent was set up by whoever was free at that time. But this time, Tarico took the initiative to help her. Mcginon also wanted to help but the chance was taken away by Tarico. Tarico was very efficient and adept. He only asked Jin Xiaoyu to help him a little and the tent was set up in an amazingly short time. After setting up the tent, he asked her whether she felt cold and Jin Xiaoyu said she wasnt. Then it was burning the firewood to cook the dinner that night. In the past, when Ye Xiaoxian lived with the camel team, she would prepare some dried food and vegetables, and would carry some firewood on the camel. In this way, she could cook and eat warm vegetables in the desert. This tradition was maintained. When they rested at night, they would cook some vegetable soup to eat. When she came, Jin Xiaoyu sometimes helped but sometimes didnt. It was entirely up to her. But this time, Tarico called her over. Chapter 286 - Be Nice to Him.

286. Be Nice to Him.

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup Tarico said, You dont need to burn firewood. Just sit here. It will be warm in such a windy cold night. Everyone noticed something different. They felt that Taricos attitude towards Jin Xiaoyu obviously turned much better. He didnt pay attention to her at the way they came, while he cared about her much more now as they get back. Jin Xiaoyu wrapped her clothes and sat down next to the fire. The people on both sides quickly gave her a seat, letting her get closer to Tarico. Jin Xiaoyu obviously sensed it too. She smiled. Why are you guys so polite? We are all in the same team. Dont let me take up such a big seat and warmth, you guys also need the fire. The other men giggled but no one got closer. Now that the vegetable soup was ready, Mcginon was in charge of handing out the soup. Tarico added, Girls first. Mcginon quickly handed the soup to Jin Xiaoyu. Jin Xiaoyu smiled at Tarico. Thank you, you are such a gentleman. Tarico smiled at her as well and said, Its ok, just do what I should do. ...... After finishing the soup, Jin Xiaoyu sat on a sand dune and watched the stars in the sky. There were footsteps behind her, its Tarico Tarico sat down next to her and asked, Why do you always like sitting on a sand dune alone? What makes the star so special? Not just the stars, Jin Xiaoyu said. What else? Tarico didnt understand. There were someone who liked to sit on the sand dune too. He said that he wasnt looking at stars or sand, but the far ce. Now, I can understand how he felt back then. Oh? How dose it feel? Tarico sat down and looked up at the stars. But in his eyes, stars were just stars, nothing else. Nothing, Tarico said. Jin Xiaoyu smiled. You have to go through somethings before you can see something different. Youre innocent and young, so you dont understand now. Tarico didnt agreed with her. He retorted, Im not young anymore. Ive experienced quite a lot. Jin Xiaoyu smiled again without saying a word. Tarico said, By the way, I havent asked before, where are your family? Do you only have one younger brother? Jin Xiaoyu raised an eyebrow. You cared so much about me, let me stay close to the fire, let me drink soup, and now you ask about my family. Do you have a thing for me? Tarico said, Hey, girl, why are you so straightforward? If I want to say anything, I just say it. Why would I pretend nothing to ask when I actually got questions in mind? You want me to pretend nothing happend? Its not fun when you speak it out, Tarico said in a low voice. Jin Xiaoyu smiled, Still want to y games? Youre so young. Be careful if you want to y with me. ... Tarico thought that he was already very cynical, but he didnt expect Jin Xiaoyu was more cynical than him. He added, Ive never seen a woman like you. Do you have someone you loved before? It was little Ye, right? Since youve had feelings for her before, you definitely wont like me anymore, because Impletely different from her, so please dont fall in love with me. Ill definitely disappoint you. Jin Xiaoyu stood up after finishing her words, patted away the sand on her body, and said casually, Im going back to sleep. Goodbye! Tarico had an inexplicable feeling, as if he was going to conquer a high mountain, but he had only climbed two steps now. But he really wanted to conquer the mountain. He simplyid on the sand dune and looked at the stars. He kept looking and then he smiled again. ...... In the following journey, Tarico always got close to Jin Xiaoyu. He wanted to do so before, but he was afraid that he would being out of the line and madeJin Xiaoyu disgusted. Now he made himself clear, he could tter her aboveboard. On the way back, he let his camel walk side by side with her. Is it hot? he asked. Jin Xiaoyu smiled without saying a word. I also went to see the starsst night. What did you see? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Its a little strange. Every little star I saw would eventually transform into your appearance. ... Jin Xiaoyu said, Your mouth is quite sweet, but Ive heard these honey words long time before. Then you just dont like me for being so young. Whats wrong with being young? Being young and strong can protect you. Jin Xiaoyu said, Im at least 5 years older than you. Just only 5 years older, not 50. You loved little Ye. What? You dont like her now? Little Ye got someone who loves her. I love you now, Tarico whistled at her. Jin Xiaoyu smiled and added, Sure enough, you are just like a child, so naughty. Tarico wanted to jump off the camel and show off his strong muscles in front of her, Whats wrong about being young? I can protect you. Stay by my side and no one dares to hurt you. Jin Xiaoyu smiled. You loved little Ye yesterday, and you love me today. I dont know which girl you will fall in love with tomorrow. If Im really being with you today, Ill be abandoned tomorrow. Nonsense, Im not such a y boy. I can swear in front of the God of Tianshan Mountains that if youre willing to be my woman, Ill only love you for the resto of my life. Jin Xiaoyu sneered, How can a mans oath be real? There is a Tianshan Mountains God watching. There are still a kind of swear of being struck by lightning in the Zhongyuan Area. Someone took an oath yesterday, then they forgot all about it today. Tarico didnt know how to retort her, so he just said, Alright, then just wait and see. As long as youre willing to give me a chance, I promise Ill always be nice to you. Jin Xiaoyu smiled again. It wasnt the first time a young boy confessed to her. Two years ago, at the inn, there was a boy in the same age told her that she wanted to marry her and let her wait for him. She wasnt serious at first. She only joked that she would wait. However, the boy didnte back after a trip home. He sent someone to bring her a letter, saying that his father didnt agree. If he wanted to marry her, his father would seek death. She thought its okay. She had already predicted the result, anyway. ...... After Jin Xiaoyu returned to the tribe, everyone said that she was a little tanned than before, but became more vigorous. She bought a lot of things in Beihui city, all of which were small ornaments for all the women in the tribe, as well as some snacks, candies, and desserts for kids. She was always considerate and thoughtful in dealing with such things, so people around her all liked her. Little Xun liked her much more as he saw her, holding her hand all the time and saying that he missed her a lot recently. Who are you living with recently? Jin Xiaoyu asked. If Uncle Baoshan is here, I live with Uncle Baoshan. If he not, I slept by himself. Jin Xiaoyu immediately criticized Little Xun,as her heard this How can you live with Uncle Baoshan? Didnt I tell you before I left that try to get Uncle Baoshan and Sis little Ye together? Since you lived with Uncle Baoshan, where does Sis little Ye live? Little Xun couldnt get straight so many twists and turns. He asked, Ah, what should we do, then? If Im not here in the future, tell Sis little Ye that you dont dare to sleep alone and let Sis little Ye apany you. After she agrees, go tell Uncle Baoshan the same. When they bothe over, you go to live with Auntie Hong Mei, do you understand? Little Xun understood, Okay, I know what to do. Ye Xiaoxian happened to be near the yurt as they talked about this. She heard all the words Jin Xiaoyu and Little Xun said. After Jin Xiaoyu finished speaking, she found Ye Xiaoxian standing behind her. Awkward. However, Jin Xiaoyu was always thick-skinned. She smiled and said, Haha, you identally heard it, my mistake. However, if Little Xun is really afraid, dont reject him. I just heard that the two of you are still the same, so I came up with this idea. Ye Xiaoxian changed the topic, The camel team wont go to Beihui city this year. They are going to another farm to spend the winter. You are going to stay and take care of Little Xun, right? I... Jin Xiaoyu hesitated. She would stay in the tribe If she didnt follow the camel team, and she wold face to Ye Xiaoxian and Baoshan every day and made them unhappy. Then I might follow the camel team to the next farm. She replied The camel team is made up of all men. You... is it convenient? Would Tarico agree? He will agree, Jin Xiaoyu was very confident. Thats good then. Ill bring Little Xun over there then, Jin Xiaoyu said, I should take care of him. And so sorry to trouble you for a long time. Dont say that. You are brought by the Seventh King. We should take care of you, Ye Xiaoxian said. The two of them chatted politely for a while then Jin Xiaoyu asked, You and Baoshan are still having a fight? Ye Xiaoxian suddenly remembered the kiss. She believed that he must have kissed her under his impulse. Perhaps it was because they were just reunited with each other, or maybe he suddenly thought of his past. In short, it was caused by an opportunity. After that day, they returned to their previous rtionship. He was still polite towards her and didnt dare to offend her as if she were a fairy. She naturally maintained her own restraint and didnt take the initiative. Ye Xiaoxian smiled at Jin Xiaoyu. Its still the same. We had nothing to do with each other, anyway. Jin Xiaoyu sighed, It seems that I didnt run far enough. How could that be? Dont say that. Its our business. It has nothing to do with you. Jin Xiaoyu thought about it and added, Little Ye, he was really suffering when he first arrived at my inn. He was injured and was almost made into meat buns by my buddy. After that, he was in a daze and didnt remember anything. He only remembered a woman cooking for him in his dream. Ye Xiaoxians heart suddenly ached. Jin Xiaoyu added, He really didnt cheat on you. He sat on the sand dune every day looking for his family, but gave up for a long time waitting, and he thought he was abandoned by his family. Its not easy for him, be nice to him. Ye Xiaoxian didnt say anything. But she was about to cry as her turned around. Chapter 287 - Invite Her to Eat Noodles

Chapter 287. Invite Her to Eat Noodles

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio Tarico came over soon. Every time he came back from Beihui City, he, Councilor Liu and Ye Xiaoxian would gather together to settle the ounts. Xiao Baozhu would alsoe to help, and now Jin Xiaoyu came as well. This trip was rewarding, as always. Besides the part that was given to Li Chengru, each of them could earn twenty two taels of silver, and Ye Xiaoxian divided the silver into pieces, so that anyone who contributed could get their pay. This is the day everyone looked forward to, since every time they got their money, Ye Xiaoxian would give them a break and they could go shopping together at the market. When winter wasing again, those whose children were growing fast had to buy new fabric to make clothes for them. Or if the clothes were torn, they would need to buy some new fabric to patch them up. Also, if there wasnt enough nket in the room, they could buy new ones at the market. Some people went to the market simply because they love eating. The market had local delicacies, such as cold noodles and freshmb noodles. Some people would meet and went for a drink there. When they were on holidays, they woulde over to enjoy the food. After Tarico divided the money, he asked Jin Xiaoyu, who had just helped settle the bill, Xiaoyu, are you free recently? Would you like to go to the market with me? Ye Xiaoxian, Councilor Liu and Baozhu were also there. Seeing how enthusiastic Tarico was towards Jin Xiaoyu, they seemed to understand something. Jin Xiaoyu followed Tarico to the camel team once. It must have attracted Taricos attention. Thus, everyone looked at Tarico and Jin Xiaoyu. Jin Xiaoyu didnt expect Tarico to act in such an obvious way. Indeed, young people tended to act on their impulse. She saw that everyone was looking at her, especially Ye Xiaoxian. So she thought that she might as well agree with Tarico, in case Ye Xiaoxian still had something lingering in her mind so that she couldnt forget Baoshan. Okay, when are you going? Jin Xiaoyu asked. In the afternoon, I can ride over to pick you up, Tarico said. Okay, but I have a younger brother. He wants to go too. Alright, Ill change my saddle so it fits three, Tarico replied warmly. Before leaving, Tarico turned back to look at Jin Xiaoyu and said, Then see you soon. He looked extremely elegant yet flirtatious. After Tarico left, everyone inside looked at Jin Xiaoyu. Jin Xiaoyu smiled, Its just that young people make friends instantly. Councilor Liu asked, Boss Jin isnt married yet, right? If you decide to stay in the tribe forever, you can consider Tarico. He looks like a cker from the appearance, but he is actually very kind and passionate inside. When we first arrived, he gave us a lot of help, which shows that he is by no means xenophobic. As long as you join his camel team, youll know hes a very capable person. All the young people in the tribe listen to him. Jin Xiaoyu nced at Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian didnt express anything. This was entirely a matter of personal preference. Match-making wouldnt help. Whats more, if she spoke, it would seem like she was petty and she was afraid that Jin Xiaoyu would hook up with Baoshan. Jin Xiaoyu saw that Ye Xiaoxian didnt speak and said, Our rtionship is not like what you thought at all. Its just that I think hes pretty interesting and seems like a person to hang out with. Councilor Liu asked, You cant just hang out with him. Tarico is a sincere young man. He should be serious, plus, he has never liked anyone. I think the two of you are quite a good match. Both of you are so yful and carefree. Its precisely because everyone is so carefree that they can have fun together. When the timees and they dont want to have fun anymore, they can just leave, right? Jin Xiaoyu put down the ount book in her hands and said, Well, its been half a day. Im tired too. Ill go take a nap first and wait for Tarico to pick me up. ...... After Jin Xiaoyu went out, Councilor Liu also said that he would go back to sleep for a while. He was old and had cast his ount for such a long time. Now he felt dizzy. After they all left, only Xiao Baozhu and Ye Xiaoxian were in the room. Xiao Baozhu suddenly sighed. Ye Xiaoxian found it funny and ask, Baozhu, why did you sigh? Xiao Baozhu said, Because of Jin Xiaoyu. I dont know why. Although she looks a little skittish, I kind of like her right now. If in the past, I would hate her due to her personality. But now, I think that her personality is very rare. She has the ability and courage to let go. Unlike me, Ive been dragging for so long before I can really let go of someone. Ye Xiaoxian put her hands on Xiao Baozhus shoulder, You have your strengths and she has hers too. She has a temperament that can only be cultivated through tough experience. Before she had such personality, she might have suffered a lot. Sister, do you still hate her now? Xiao Baozhu asked. Ye Xiaoxian said, Why do I hate her? She didnt do anything wrong. Then why dont you forgive my brother? asked Xiao Baozhu. Those are two different matters. Besides, I dont me your brother. He didnt do anything wrong neither. We should just follow the nature. I believe God will always make his arrangements. ...... In the afternoon, Tarico came to pick up Jin Xiaoyu. Tarico was the tribe leader who was young and handsome, so he had attracted many young girls in the tribe. Now that he was riding a horse,ing to pick up Jin Xiaoyu in such an eye-catching manner, which aroused many chit-chats among the women in the tribe. Boss Jin is indeed really impressive. She only went to the camel team once and was able to attract Tarico. Didnt Tarico have a girl on his mind before? When he just became the tribe leader earlier this year, he admitted it in public. That girl didnt like him. It was also unrealistic for him to wait forever, he must have to look for another one. ... Jin Xiaoyu came out holding Little Xuns hand and saw Tarico riding a ck stallion. He was young and handsome and gave her a bright smile. Unexpectedly, her heart started racing at that moment. She immediately told herself that he was nothing more than a brat. They were having fun today, but might be bored tomorrow. She also knew that she wasnt the type to live at home. She was less than half virtuous than little Ye. Even if Tarico really married her, she was afraid that he would divorce her because she wouldnt do family business. At that thought, she felt relieved. Tarico got off the horse and handed a doll that he made with grass to Little Xun, This is for you. Little Xun was always polite, Thank you. Get on the horse! Tarico picked up Little Xun and carried him up. Then she turned to Jin Xiaoyu, Its your turn. Jin Xiaoyu climbed onto the horse by herself, followed by Tarico. At this time, Jin Xiaoyu realized that she had made a mistake: she should borrow another horse. Although the horse was tall, it felt crowded when three people were sitting on it. It was inevitable that they would get very close, which made her and Tarico seem intimate. Even though Tarico didnt move, the two of them would still have body contacts. She could feel the heat behind her. To the others, they looked like a family of three. Jin Xiaoyu was hesitating if she should get down and borrow another horse to ride, but when she turned around, she saw Xiao Baoshaning out of his room. She immediately gave up this idea. Tarico, hurry up and leave, Jin Xiaoyu said. Tarico flung his whip and the dark horse started to gallop. Jin Xiaoyu was squeezed in the middle. It was really ufortable. Tarico was also being yful. The grass field here was not t. There were many up-and-downs. He specifically led his horses to these ces, because when they went up, he would stick to her back due to gravity. When they went downhill, her body would fall to his chest. She knew he did it on purpose, but she couldnt me him either. That way, it would seem like she was too sensitive and petty. Tarico pretended that nothing happened as well. He told her about the streets and the market, about what she could buy and what she could eat. Fortunately, they arrived at the market soon after. Tarico got off his horse and wanted to carry Jin Xiaoyu down. Jin Xiaoyu didnt need it. She jumped right down so Tarico went to carry Little Xun. It was rare for Little Xun toe out so he was very excited. So Tarico started with Little Xun and took him to eatmb noodles. As long as Little Xun went, Jin Xiaoyu could only follow. The market wasnt big. It was only half a street from the beginning to the end. There were no fixed stores but temporary stalls set up by private sellers. However, the taste of themb noodles was really good. Although it wasnt as delicious as those Ye Xiaoxian made, she didnt make it very often, and, in addition, the feeling was different to eat in a market. How is it? Tarico asked Ye Xiaoxian with a smile, Isnt it delicious? Its fine. Will you dislike such a small ce? Tarico asked again. He knew Jin Xiaoyu was someone who had experienced much of the world. Jin Xiaoyu said, It depends on who I am eating with. What about me? Tarico was now giving himself all out, without hiding his passion and love. Well, with you, I dont hate you anyway. The opposite of dislike, does it mean like? There is no such saying. Jin Xiaoyu liked to eat the meat on top of the noodles first. After finishing the meat, she would eat the noodles then the soup. Seeing that she had finished eating her meat, Tarico gave her the piece of meat in his bowl. Jin Xiaoyu was startled. She wasnt someone who was crazy about meat, but it had been a long time since someone had gave her his piece of meat. Even though she was almost married to Xiao Baoshan in the past, she was still the one who gave Baoshan the meat, not the opposite. Just eat it, dont you like meat? Tarico asked. Jin Xiaoyu picked up her meat and gave it back to him, No, I dont. If you dont want to eat, you can give it to Little Xun. Then you can just give it to Little Xun. The meat will be yours if I give it to you. You can distribute it however you want. Jin Xiaoyu gave the meat to Little Xun. Little Xun had been eating noodles quietly. When he first came out, he didnt feel inappropriate. But eating the noodles now and watching the two chatting in front of him made him feel like he shouldnt havee out. Chapter 288 - Getting Stuffed

288. Getting Stuffed

Trantor: Fan Trantion Studio He said, Sis, brother, you look like my parents. Jin Xiaoyu asked, Nonsense, I am so young, so how can I be like your mother? Tarico asked, Why do you say that? Because your parents will also give you meat to eat? Little Xun smiled and said, No, my father and my mother are just like you two when they are chatting andughing in the room. Jin Xiaoyu and Tarico got a little awkward. Jin Xiaoyu said, LIttle kid, dont talk nonsense. Tarico said, Little Xun, finish your food quickly and I will take you to buy some stuffs after eating. ...... Tarico was quite familiar with the people in the market. He could greet every stall owner, and some of them would look at Jin Xiaoyu and ask Tarico something with a wicked smile. However, Jin Xiaoyu didnt really understand the localnguage. Tarico turned to Jin Xiaoyu. They all said you look pretty. Jin Xiaoyu said, Of course, its a truth that everyone knows. They also said that your nose and eyes are both very beautiful. Of course. Your figure is also great. Many girls dont have a waist like yours. Of course. They also said that we look perfect for each other. That is... Jin Xiaoyu was about to answer when she realized she was tricked by Tarico. She punched him, In which way? Well, in every way, I guess. Tarico, stop talking nonsense. Dont forget that youre my underling, Jin Xiaoyu reminded him seriously. That was a one-to-one fight, but you cant beat me here because they are all acquaintances and friends of mine. If you dare to hit me, they will help me. Next time, you cante here for shopping anymore. Youre such an arrogant brat. Seeing that Jin Xiaoyu was really getting serious, Tarico immediately pointed to a nearby shop. Ah, here is Aunt Zayi. Lets go and buy something from her. It was winter soon. The winter clothes and cotton they wanted could be bought in the tribe, but if there was arge demand, they would have toe to the market to buy the ready-made outfits, such as winter boots. Tarico said, The winter here is very cold and there will be snow in a while. You have to prepare the winter boots and hats. The things here are not as good as those in Beihui city, but locals have experience in fighting against the winter. You can buy something warmer at the market here. Look, there is fox fur here and also wool. Jin Xiaoyu thought so as well. She knew that many people in the tribe were rushing to make winter clothes, but she didnt know how to do needlework. She didnt want to trouble Li Hongmei and the rest either, so she might as well buy them. She thought these winter hats and boots were just as right. However, she didnt immediately buy them. Instead, she turned and asked Tarico, Is your camel team going to the next grass field in a while? Yeah, well head out in a few days, Tarico said with a smile, You dont want me to leave? Are you kidding me? I just want to ask if I can go together. I know its because you dont want me to leave. If not, why do you want toe with me? Because I dont want to stay in the tribe. If I leave with you, I can help feed the camels. If I stay in the tribe, I really dont know what to do in the winter. If you want to go, of course I will wee you. However, the conditions at the second farm are not so good, so its not as lively as this ce. Its good enough to have Little Xun with me, Jin Xiaoyu said. She wouldnt stay in the tribe anyway. She couldnt do anything in the winter and had to face Ye Xiaoxian and Baoshan every day. It would be better to follow Tarico to the second farm. Besides, Tarico was too enthusiastic. It would be better to spend more time together, so that he would know they wouldnt work well together. Jin Xiaoyu was thinking about it when she turned around and saw that Tarico had already picked the cotton clothes and shoes for Little Xun, and even paid the money. Why did you pay? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Its not for you, pick your own ones, Tarico said, The second farm is also cold, so you have to wear a little warmer. Jin Xiaoyu, ... Forget about it, she really didnt have much money left. She spent almost all the money she had taken out from Longmen Inn. ...... The items purchased from Beihui city were sold out. After selling them, Ye Xiaoxian needed to hand over the portion of the money that belonged to Li Chengru. Because it was thest time she paid this year, Ye Xiaoxian nned to go to Baoning city herself. That day, during dinner, she told Counselor Liu that she would send the ount book over herself and verify it with Li Chengru. If Li Chengru had any questions, she could exin it to him. Baoshan heard it and he couldnt help but ask Ye Xiaoxian, Are you going to Baoning city? About when? The day after tomorrow, Ye Xiaoxian asked again, Are you going too? She remembered Baoshan saying that he would go to Baoning city very often, especially in the winter. Yes, Baoshan said, Why dont we go together? I will also set out the day after tomorrow. I need to meet with Qian Qi. ... Okay, Ye Xiaoxian thought that it was good to go together. Anyway, if he was there, she would not be afraid of encountering bad guys on the road. Apart from Ye Xiaoxian and Baoshan, Wang Wen and Wang Wu were also going. Ye Xiaoxian also asked Xiao Baozhu and nned to shop around the county with Baozhu to buy some supplies needed for winter after verifying the ount book. ...... The five of them were in a carriage carried by a horse. Wang Wu rode the horse while Wang Wen chased the carriage. Behind them were several people from the Xiao family. This was a small carriage. Baoshan, who was tall and strong, sat inside and the space immediately turned narrow. Because Baoshan was there, no one talked much. Xiao Baozhu felt awkward and asked, Is it me here so none of you are talking? Are you dumb or what? Forget it, Id better go outside. Xiao Baozhu climbed to the seat next to the wheeler and sat with Wang Wen. Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian were left in the car. However, the two of them still didnt talk. Sometimes, there would be eye contact but they would quickly withdrew. It takes a whole day to get to Baoning city. During the trip, Ye Xiaoxian would give everyone some food she cooked. She was quite enthusiastic towards everyone besides Baoshan. Baozhu sat outside and was blushed from the cold. When she saw that Ye Xiaoxian and Baoshan didnt speak, she couldnt help but sigh, Do you want me to tie the two of you together so that you can talk to each other? Jin Xiaoyu was about to go to the second farm with Tarico. See how chill they are! Why are the two of you so stubborn? ...... It was already midnight when they arrived at Baoning city. They found an inn to stay for the night before going to the Sixth Kings Pce the next day. The Sixth King had some urgencies, so he asked Li Chengru out to wee them. After that, Ye Xiaoxian and Li Chengru checked the ounts together. They were already very familiar with each other, so theyughed and talked while they were checking. This is the bill for almost a month. Take a look. If theres no problem, take the money and make a mark, Ye Xiaoxian joked. Im not a criminal. Why should I make a mark? Isnt making a mark just pressing your finger print? Li Chengru didnt look at the bill and pressed the red mud on his hand. Then he asked Feng Sheng to collect therge bag of silver that Ye Xiaoxian brought over. Feng Sheng could hardly carry thatrge bag of silver. There were thousands of pounds inside. Thank you for your hard work. I suddenly feel like reap without sowing, Li Chengruughed. There were thousands of pounds of silver in a season, so after three seasons, they would be able to receive a whole lot of money. If the Seventh King feels sorry, you can return the silver to us, Ye Xiaoxianughed. Li Chengruughed again, A gentleman loves money. I am a gentleman so it is impossible for me to return it. You can ask for something else. I have everything here, you can even ask for people, or gifts. Forget it, Im just joking. Although Im not a gentleman, Im a reasonable businessman. ... Baoshan silently watched Li Chengru and Ye Xiaoxianugh and talk together, while his face stayed calm throughout. Little Ye was no ordinary woman. Whoever got in contact with her for some time would like her. ...... Aftering out from the Sixth Kings residence, Baoshan led little Ye and the rest to Qians house. Wang Wen and Wang Wu were originally from the Seventh Kings residence, so they didnt follow. Only the Xiaos went. Old Mrs. Qian was very passionate to them. Besides Baoshan, she also asked Ye Xiaoxian about many things C if the clothes in the tribe were enough to wear, if the silver was enough to spend and if she had any n for the winter. In short, love me, love my dog, so Ye Xiaoxian was treated by Mrs. Qian as if she was her own daughter. The group of people sat for a while. Old Mrs. Qian was about to prepare lunch when someone from the Sixth Kings Pce came over and said that the Sixth Imperial Concubine was going to set up a banquet at the mansion tonight, and asked Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian toe over, and that the Qians family should alsoe together. Old Mrs. Qian smiled and said, Then lets have a quick lunch at my house. Wait until evening then we can have a delicious meal at the Sixth Kings Pce. ...... During dinner, Old Mrs. Qian and the others praised Baoshan and said to Ye Xiaoxian, Your husband is really outstanding among people. Not only does he look good, but also is he skillful in martial arts. Hes not stingy neither. He would be a strong man to protect our homes and defend our country. Unfortunately, the situation in the imperial court is not good currently, otherwise he will have a chance to fight for the glory of the country. Ye Xiaoxian smiled and nodded. If it wasnt for her, Old Mrs. Qian would have kidnapped Baoshan and make him her son-inw. The rest of the Qian family also praised Baoshan, and they kept letting Ye Xiaoxian and Baozhu eat more so that Ye Xiaoxian was stuffed. Thankfully, the Qian family had a habit of taking a nap after lunch, and they also arranged a room for a nap for Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian and Xiao Baozhu slept for a while. When they woke up, they heard that the carriage of the Sixth Kings Pce had arrived, asking them to go over for dinner. Ye Xiaoxian felt that the lunch in her stomach hadnt been digested yet. She quickly got up and did several sets of nks. As Xiao Baozhu saw this, she also did it with her. ...... Since the Sixth Imperial Concubine had always been advocating for frugality in Baoning city, the dishes were not very sumptuous and many were home-cooked, despite being a banquet. However, because these dishes were served in delicate tes, they looked better than those from ordinary restaurants. Chapter 289 - Stay Together

289. Stay Together

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup The Sixth King and the Sixth Imperial Concubine sat in the main seat while the people below lined up facing each other. Every two people shared one small table and kneeled down to eat. Ye Xiaoxian was still not used to this way of eating. She only felt tired and flustered, but out of etiquette, she still had to behave well and naturally. It was morefortable in Qians house where everyone sat around a big round table and ate together. Ye Xiaoxian and Baoshan were husband and wife in their eyes, so they were assigned to the same table. She was used to being free, so after kneeling for a short while, she felt her legs had gone numb, and she couldnt help but quietly change her postures. Xiao Baoshan was sitting there as steady as Mount Tai. When no one was paying attention, he even quietly pulled out his mat and stacked it up with Ye Xiaoxians. With two mats, Ye Xiaoxian felt not as tired as usual. After she felt a little morefortable, she turned to look at Baoshan. He was still as steady as ever, as if he wasnt feeling any difort at all. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help but think that it was fortunate that she didnte from a prestigious family. Otherwise, it would be painful to kneel like this every day. But on the second thought, not everydy from a prestigious family had to kneel like this every day. Usually, there were servants, and only when the whole family gathered together, they had to kneel like this. At the moment she was nking out, Baoshan suddenly nudged her. She realized that everyone was looking at her. She found that the Sixth Imperial Concubine was holding a ss of wine and smiled. What is Madam Xiao thinking about? Was it too tiring on the journey here yesterday? No, no. Ye Xiaoxian was a little embarrassed, Sorry, just now... She suddenly noticed a te of fried silkworms on the table and immediately said, I just saw a te of silkworms on the table. It reminded me of the past. These silkworms have the taste of my hometown. The Sixth Imperial Concubine was going to toast Ye Xiaoxian, but when he heard Ye Xiaoxian say this, he replied, I see. The dishes from your hometown makes you feel homesick. This is reasonable. Aftering to Baoning city for so long, people would indeed miss their hometown. They dont know when they would go back. But no matter where we are, we have to live a good life. Madam Xiao, you have worked hard this year. You have made a lot of contributions to the citizens of Baoning city. I will give you a toast. Im honored, thank you, Ye Xiaoxian raised her ss and chugged it. Then, it was time for the Sixth King to speak again. Everyone was polite, and the dinner was pretty delightful. ...... Having enjoyed the dinner and wine, the Sixth Imperial Concubine let Ye Xiaoxian stay in the wing-room of the mansion. First, it waste, and second, it could save some room and amodation fees. The Sixth Imperial Concubine also said that there were some old clothes in her residence, so they could tidy them up and take them back to the tribe. It was too hard for them to refuse such kindness. Plus, there were old clothes, so they stayed. Old clothes can be taken back and be given to some poor families in the tribe, so that they could survive this winter. Ye Xiaoxian and Baozhu followed a maid of the Sixth Imperial Concubine to collect the old clothes. Apart from the old clothes, there were also some shoes and hats. These were not really worn out ones, but there was a rule in the Imperial Court that they had to renew the apparels regrly. After all, it was the Six Seat Kings residence. No matter how frugal they were, they couldnt be too miserable or shabby. Ye Xiaoxian and Baozhu picked the clothes with the maid and quickly packed up a bunch of them. These were originally good materials and were worn by the servants in the residence. However, they were old, and there were some small holes. But they could still be worn after some patching when they take them back. The maid also told them that the Sixth King would had to give the rest to themoners at the city gate. None of them should be wasted. Ye Xiaoxian thought that things were done after picking the clothes. But the maid added, Right, the Sixth Imperial Concubine said that Baozhu can sleep with me tonight. Madam Xiao and General Xiao will sleep together in the wing-room. Ye Xiaoxian was a little confused. Isnt Baozhu staying in the chamber with us? The maid smiled and said, Recently, there are some guests from the Sixth Imperial Concubines family and the wing-room is almost full. Only one of them is avable. s, you know that the Sixth Kings residence cantpare to the big pce in the capital city. The conditions here are so simple and crude. There is no other choice, so Im afraid Miss Baozhu would have to make do with it. Baozhu wasughing in her heart. She hurriedly said, No, no, no, its good enough for me. Im by myself anyway. As long as there is a bed, I can sleep. Theres nothing to be picky about. Ye Xiaoxian, ... She was in an awkward position and it didnt seem appropriate to exin anything. If the Sixth Imperial Concubine knew that she was unwilling to live in a room with Baoshan, the Sixth Imperial Concubine would definitely guess that there was a gap between them. It was okay if the tribe knew about this. But if people outside the tribe knew, Baoshan would feel ashamed. As long as the Sixth Imperial Concubine knew about it, Mrs. Qian would definitely know about it as well. They respected Baoshan so much that they might try to persuade her at that time. Madam Xiao, Madam Xiao... When the old maid saw Ye Xiaoxian in a daze, she called her several times. Oh, what is it? The maid smiled and said, If this ce is cleaned up, I will bring you back to the room to rest and prepare some hot water for you. You can go to bed after washing up. ... Okay, Ye Xiaoxian replied. The maid took Ye Xiaoxian out while Baozhuughed maliciously inside the room. If she returned to the tribe and told Li Hongmei about this, Hongmei would definitely be happy too. ...... From the maids room to the chamber, one had to pass by a yard and made two turns before arriving at a small garden. The maid pushed open one of the doors and saw the lights on inside. Baoshan was also inside. He seemed to have just returned and had just taken off his coat. General Xiao, Madam Xiao, I will leave for now. Someone will send the hot waterter. Please wait patiently. Ye Xiaoxian responded and entered the house in a muddle. Baoshan sat on the chair in the room without moving and looked at Ye Xiaoxian silently. Ye Xiaoxian came in from behind and said, the Sixth Imperial Concubine arranged for me to share the room with you. I know, Xiao Baoshan said. There seems to be no choice. She said that the Sixth Imperial Concubines family is here and there are not enough wing-rooms. I know. Ye Xiaoxian was embarrassed and felt like she was trying to conceal something. Xiao Baoshan didnt say anything and just looked at her. After a while, he said, the Sixth Imperial Concubine doesnt know about our situation. Please forgive this for tonight. The house consisted of one living room and one bedroom. There was arge bed inside and a small round table and a bench outside. Baoshan added, If youre tired, go to bed and rest. Ye Xiaoxian refused. She sat down beside him and said, The maid said that someone will send hot water over. A few servants walked in with some water buckets. Soon enough, arge tub of water was poured in. The female attendant invited Ye Xiaoxian and the rest to bathe. If she needed other help, she could call them at any time. Ye Xiaoxian looked at the bucket of water without making a sound. She would definitely want to take a bath. It was particrly difficult to take a bath in the tribe. Someone needed to pick the water and boil it. Because the river was far away, they didnt want to waste the resources so they only bathe once a while. Baoshan asked, Do you want to go for a bathe? Why dont you go first? I will go once youre done. Ye Xiaoxian still did not say anything. Taking a bath in front of him? She couldnt do it. Even though they had done it before, they were like a divorced couple. Who would shower in front of her ex-husband? Baoshan seemed to have noticed. He moved the screen to the middle of the room, separated the bathtub from the bed, and then covered the screen with a quilt. In this way, they would be blocked apart. Baoshan said to her, Alright, go wash yourself first, in case the water cools down. Ye Xiaoxian was relieved to take a bath. She turned around several times to see if Baoshan hade, but there was no sound behind the screen at all. Baoshan is an honest and sincere person, he definitely wonte. Only then did she rx and take a shower. The sound of the water was rustling in the room. There was only the sound of the water. ...... Little Ye didnt spend much time in washing herself because Xiao Baoshan said that he would have to wash himselfter as well. She was worried that if she had taken the bath for too long, the water would cool down, so she simply soaked and wiped herself. When the water temperature was still slightly hot, she quickly came out and put on her clothes. When she was putting on her clothes, she looked at therge bucket of water she had just used. It was night and the light in the room was dim, so she couldnt tell if the water was dirty. However, sharing the same bucket of water was something that only people in an intimate rtionship could do. Even if he didnt mind the water was already used by her, she still felt that this was a little awkward. After putting on her clothes, she still said to him, Im done. Whether or not to have a bath next would depend on him. Baoshan had been sitting upright for the whole time. Now that Ye Xiaoxian called him, he replied, Okay. Then he said, If you are tired, then lie down and rest. Little Ye let out an emm before she sat on the bed. Xiao Baoshan didnt mind sharing the bathwater with her. She only heard the sound of clothes falling off, then she heard the sound of his body soaking into the water, followed by the sound of water sshing around. He washed himself quickly and was soon finished. After washing up, he pushed the door open to call the servants outside. The servants heard the orders and walked in to clear the ce. After a while, the room returned to its original appearance. The screen was taken away, leaving only Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian. Now that there was only one bed in the room, how should they sleep? The two of them had been sleeping separately for a long time. If they slept together tonight, their frozen rtionship wouldpletely melt. Ye Xiaoxian had been listening about ttering words for the whole day and everyone was praising Xiao Baoshan. Her heart was already softened and she no longer med Xiao Baoshan. Before this, she had always said that she would let nature take its course, but now that it was a turn of chance, if she could seize this opportunity, their rtionship would be restored to normal. Of course, she wouldnt take the initiative either. She moved parts of her body into the bed, leaving some ce for one person, and thenid herself down. She felt like she had already given a sign indicated that he wouldnt be able to miss such an obvious action. But who knows, Baoshan had always been a rigid man and was particrly stiff. Little Ye didnt ask him explicitly, so he thought that she still hated him. There were two quilts on the bed. He walked over and took one, then put together several chairs into a bed. Then he said to little Ye, Ill sleep here tonight. Little Ye, ... Chapter 290 - Anyway, I Feel Comfortable Myself

290. Anyway, I Feel Comfortable Myself

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup There were just a few chairs. Even though he had put them together, how could it fit his long arms and legs? Almost half of his body was hanging outside. Ye Xiaoxian was angry again. Am I not charming enough? Am I not attractive? Ive already left a space for you, so why dont youe? Fine, if you want to sleep on the chairs, then do it. I dont want to take care of you. Anyway, I feelfortable myself. ...... Ye Xiaoxian rolled her nket and fell asleep. But she woke up in the middle of the night. Baoshan kicked over a chair when he turned over. She opened her eyes and saw that Baoshan was holding up a chair and turning over and over, trying to find afortable sleeping position. She was even angrier. Its already like this, and youre not evening to the bed. Are you a man or not? She suddenly believed Jin Xiaoyus words: Baoshan never took the initiative to touch Jin Xiaoyu. Otherwise, with Jin Xiaoyus seductiveness, how could he resist the temptation? The man who Jin Xiaoyu couldnt even seduce, she... Oh well, she was her and Jin Xiaoyu was Jin Xiaoyu. How could they be the same? ...... No one slept well this night. On the second day, both had dark circles. The most annoying thing was that Baoshan actually asked Ye Xiaoxian, Did you sleep wellst night? Well? What a bullshit! Ye Xiaoxian just chuckled. Baoshan slept on the chairs for a whole night and now he thought he was doing a great thing that, in order to make her sleep well, he sacrificed a nights sleep? Stupid blockhead! ...... The next day, Ye Xiaoxian and Baozhu wandered around the city, bought everything they needed, and then followed Wang Wen and Wang Wu to stay in the tribe. Baoshan stayed at Qians house, saying that he had something important to discuss with Qian Qi and that he might only be back after the new year. Ye Xiaoxian didnt care when he woulde back. She didnt want to see that idiot now. ...... In the tribe, Tarico and Jin Xiaoyu were also moving. Tarico came to pick up Jin Xiaoyu himself, carried things and took care of Little Xun for her. Jin Xiaoyu didnt wear many clothes when she went out. She had good physical abilities and had stayed in the desert for a long time, so it didnt matter if she wore less. But Tarico didnt allow it and asked Jin Xiaoyu, We went to buy clothes, shoes and hats that day. Why didnt you wear them? Jin Xiaoyu thought: This little brat is quite meddled. Its not cold now. Ill put them on on the road. Tarico didnt give in, Its cold on the way, and there may not be a ce for you to change. You should change it now, or I wont allow you to go. Im not cold. Of course you are not cold in the room. When you ride on the camel, it will be cold. Its windy outside. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt help but chase him out of the room and put on extra pants and boots. She was dressed up like an olddy who had just entered the city from the countryside. She was going to despise herself. However, Tarico was very satisfied. He grinned and said, Now, you will be unlikely to get sick. We have to know that our living conditions are tough and there arent many medicines. It will be troublesome if we get sick. Jin Xiaoyu rolled her eyes at him. When Tarico led Jin Xiaoyu to leave, he waved goodbye to everyone in a high-profile manner, Squire Liu, see you in spring next year! Auntie Hongmei, we are leaving now. You have to take care of yourelves in the tribe. Zhenbo, take care of the family. ... When everyone saw Taricos excitement, they all pretended that they didnt know what he was up to. Wasnt just Jin Xiaoyu willing to go with him? It was not easy for a woman like Jin Xiaoyu to subdue, so he might suffer next time. ...... Little Ye also watched Tarico and Jin Xiaoyu ride far away. She couldnt know whether Jin Xiaoyu was sincere, but Tarico was, for sure. She thought back to how Tarico had been so enthusiastic when he confessed to her in the past, but it wasnt long before until he had a second person in his heart. So she guessed correctly that no one would ever stay for the second person. If you ignored him, he would turn around and leave. Who knew how long Baoshan would wait for her. He liked to live in the city and said that he had something to discuss with Qian Qi. What if a second woman appeared beside him? Would he be like Tarico meeting Jin Xiaoyu, leaving everything behind just for her? She sighed slightly. ...... After travelling for more than ten days, Jin Xiaoyu and the rest finally reached the second farm. It was still cold, but it wouldnt rain, and the grass could also be grazed. In addition, there were many herders from the tribe, so they didnt feel deste. When they arrived, they would build a new yurt. When Jin Xiaoyu and Little Xun came, they had pulled down the yurt from the old site and brought it here. Of course, she wouldnt know how to build it. But there was no need to worry. Tarico would help her. As long as Tarico called out, the members of the camel team woulde to help. Jin Xiaoyu did not need to do anything. However, she couldnt just let her hands free. Even though she was a woman and Tarico admired her, it was impossible for her to simply hang around and be a freeloader. So she took Little Xun together to pick up some firewood nearby and observed the terrain a little bit. Apart from being warmer, other things here were simr to the tribes. The sky was always blue, the grass was always green with sprinkles of yellow, the cows and sheep were eating grass, and there were mountains nearby, so they could pick up the firewood. Probably because she was inexperienced, she hadnt picked up much. When she came back, he happened to hear Tarico talking to his brothers in the yurt. Because Wang Wen and Wang Wu were also there, he spoke in the Zhongyuan dialect: As for Miss Jin, Ill be the one to protect her from now on. You guys are not allowed to have feelings for her, and cant let her do everything just because shes a woman. The expenses of the two siblings are all on me. Even if she doesnt work and lies on the bed every day, you guys cant have any objections. If you do, you cant talk to me. Dont judge her behind her back! Then someone responded, Your words are already so obvious. Who dares to have any objections to her? We will treat her as the eldest mistress, okay? What is the eldest mistress? Tarico asked. Wang Wen said, It is a rich madam from a wealthy family. Or, perhaps you can understand it in this way C she is the Empress and we are the ministers. We cant offend her. We will offer her the best food and drink. Clear enough? The othersughed and echoed, indicating that they would not let the two do any hard work. Tarico said satisfactorily, Alright, in short, if you guys ept her, then I wont treat you badly. After I set up all the yurts, Ill go catch some fish for you all. Jin Xiaoyu suddenly had an indescribable feeling in her heart. Tarico seemed to be serious, and he was terribly serious. Even Little Xun pulled the corner of her shirt and whispered, Sis, Brother Tarico is not bad. She smiled a bit, What do you children know? Dont talk nonsense. Little Xun suddenly felt wronged. Why didnt he understand? He knows everything, okay? ...... Although Tarico said not to let Jin Xiaoyu do anything. She couldnt stand idle and do nothing. She wasnt the type of woman who was willing to be protected by a man, nor did she like to develop the habit of relying on a man. She was afraid that she would get addicted and in the course of time would lose herself. Seeing that Tarico and Mcginon were going fishing with their fiss, she followed. Going fishing, huh? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Yeah, Tarico narrowed his eyes and smiled. Do you want to go together? Of course. Tarico asked, Are you interested in fishing? A little bit, I can help anyway. Expectedly, Tarico was happy that she wanted to follow. The first thing to do when fishing in the river is to cast the fis. Since there was no boat here, they needed to throw a piece of wood in the river, then use martial arts to fly to the opposite side and then insert the fish. Jin Xiaoyu was experienced in flying skills, so she took the initiative to take the task of putting the fis from the other side of the river. After she threw the wood into the water, she leaped forward and flew to the opposite shore. Tarico and Mcginon were stunned, while Little Xun pped at the shore, admiring Jin Xiaoyu. Should we put it here? Jin Xiaoyu shouted. Tarico didnt answer. Jin Xiaoyu was so good in flying skills that he didnt want to be outdone. After thinking about it for a while, he also leaped on the wooden stick and flew over to the other side. What are you doing here? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Tarico smiled and said, Im afraid you dont know how to set the fis. Theres nothing I dont know. Just let me do it. Let me do it. ... The two of them went to grab the fis, but the shore was slippery. When Tarico grabbed the fis, he identally slipped and rushed towards Jin Xiaoyu. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt bear the impact and fell back. Just like that, the two of them fell to the shore, one above and the other below. Jin Xiaoyu was stunned while Tarico was as well. Even though the clothes she was wearing was extremely old-fashioned, he could still smell the faint fragrance of flowers. In addition, the person below him looked very pretty, her lips were soft, and her eyes were beautiful, charming and agile. On the other side, Mcginon sighed: Tarico really knows the tricks. No wonder they think Im too honest. Howe I dont know how to y these tricks? Little Xun covered his eyes. Jin Xiaoyuy on the ground. She could feel the breath of the person above her became quick. Just as he was about to kiss her, she suddenly pushed him away and sat up. Tarico suddenly came around. Since he was embarrassed, he wanted to distract their attention. Just at this time, he saw that the fis was about to be washed away by the river. He quickly rushed to grab the fis and inserted it in the right ce. He was about to apologize to Jin Xiaoyu, but Jin Xiaoyu had already flown back to the other side. He was a little frustrated. Was he too impulsive just now? s, she wouldnt leave anyway, so he could exin it to herter. ...... Earlier, someone had seen the scene clearly on the mountain. That was Mahals daughter, Guri. After Mahals position of tribal leader was taken away, he kept a low profile in the tribe for a long time. Guri didnt dare to brag in the tribe anymore. She followed Mahal and herded the sheep and cattles. Even though the position of the tribal leader was gone, their home business still continued, as well as the herding. This time, their family also came together as they transferred to this new farm. Chapter 291 - The Anger Is Mostly Gone

291. The Anger Is Mostly Gone

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup Guri was somewhat uneasy about Tarico. Seeing that Tarico and the others were here, she knew that Tarico would definitely be fishing by the river, so she came to take a look. She didnt expect to see Tarico and Jin Xiaoyu making out by the river. Apart from Ye Xiaoxian, Guri had never seen Tarico be so passionate to any woman. It seemed that this woman was indeed charming. In the afternoon, Guri returned to her own yurt and talked to her parents about Tarico, Tarico fell in love with a woman from the Zhongyuan Area again. Why does he always like those women from the Zhongyuan Area? Are the women there more attractive than those in our tribe? Dati said, Now that things havee to this point, dont think about Tarico anymore. Your father has already found a good man for you. You two can get married next year, so forget that jerk Tarico. He was just lucky to meet the Seventh King. Otherwise... Hum. Mahal was afraid after being scolded once. Now he dared not to mention Tarico at all, so he did not speak. Guri added, Those Zhongyuan people are so strange. A bunch of people came, followed by another. Now that the woman brought a child, I dont know if he is an illegitimate child or her biological brother. If he is an illegitimate child, it would be unfair for Tarico. Who cares about him? He likes to chase after those women from Zhongyuan. Itll be great that the kid is her illegitimate child. If she got together with Tarico, her husband back in Zhongyuan Area wille to them. I heard that men in the Zhongyuan Area could not tolerate his wife being together with a second person at all. If Taricoes across this matter, he would most likely be done. Guri and Dati muttered a lot of bad words about Tarico. ...... Just likest year, after being busy for a short period, the New Year came. Baoshan and Xiao Baofeng also returned. Ye Xiaoxian felt that ever since Baoshan had talked with Qian Qi, his spirit had improved a lot. Although he still didnt talk much, he looked a lot better. Even when it was snowing, he would get up early to exercise for a whole morning. Li Hongmei said to Ye Xiaoxian that day, Baoshan is amazing. He actually took a bath in the ice bucket naked this morning. Oh my, it made me shiver only by looking at the water. Ye Xiaoxian also shivered. Although she had heard that many people liked to challenge their limits, and some great people liked to swim in the river during winter, she felt that it was unbelievable that this kind of people were living beside her. Ye Xiaoxian was afraid of the cold, so she liked cuddling with others in sleep during winter. One night, she cuddled with Xiao Baozhu. Baozhu couldnt help but ask her, Sister-inw, why dont you go cuddle with my brother? My brothers body is as strong as a buffalo and he is not afraid of the cold. Yesterday, I touched his body. My goodness, he was like a fireball. He must be very warm to cuddle with at night. Ye Xiaoxian: No way! Of course, she wouldnt take the initiative to stay close to him. Because the days were getting better, their New Year was also better than before. Before the New Year, the Liu and the Yan family had already stocked a lot of grain, as well as dried fish and meat. Vegetables and firewood also filled up a cer, and a lot of sunflower seeds. On the days during the New Year, the two of them had nothing to talk about, so they just sang some songs, ate some sunflower seeds, and enjoyed themselves. Once, Ye Xiaoxian woke upte and everyone else went to the public yurt already. She could only go there alone. As she passed by Baoshans yurt, she heard some noise in there. Now that Baoshan and Xiao Baofeng were living together, she didnt know who was in there. She didnt want to care about it, but she stopped unconsciously. She walked to the door of the yurt and was about to ask when the door of the yurt opened. Its you? Little Ye? Ye Xiaoxian was a little embarrassed and asked, What are you doing in the house? I just took a shower and I was nning to go to the yurt to join them, said Baoshan. Oh, you soaked in ice water? Yes. The conversation between the two had always been so casual and cold. Ye Xiaoxian didnt find it interesting and, at the same time, was a little angry. She thought that Baoshan shouldnt be thinking of her and didnt like her anymore. Otherwise, why would they always be so polite and indifferent to each other? Forget it, she didnt want to talk with him neither. So she simply turned around and left. Unexpectedly, right at the moment she turned around, Baoshan stopped her from behind, Little Ye! When she turned her head and saw his gaze, she felt that he was actually very enthusiastic. What is it? Yan Baoshan said, How about...e in and sit for a while. If you dont want to go over, I have brought someic books back. Perhaps... you like to read those. Seeing him stuttering and being nervous, Ye Xiaoxian knew that he really wanted to let her stay. Although she didnt like to readic books, she still said, Okay, lets read. ...... His yurt wasnt heated, and it was cold. It wasnt until she entered that he lit the charcoal fire. After a while, the yurt warmed up. Baoshan opened the wooden case on the shelf, took out a few books and handed them to Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian took over and he gestured her to sit on the bed. His quilt was folded neatly and it was veryfortable to sit on it. In addition, his room didnt smell at all, unlike the other mens yurts that stank at most times. Ye Xiaoxian opened one of the books and pretended to read. She didnt like to read those, and now that there were only Baoshan and herself in the room, it was even harder to concentrate on the book. Of course, Baoshan did not know. After he handed Ye Xiaoxian the book, he went to brew some tea on the stove. He didnt know if it was because he had been in Qians house for a long time, but now he seemed pretty experienced in brewing tea. First, he boiled the water, poured the tea into the tea bowl, drained the first cup of tea, and then gave it to little Ye until the second time he brewed the tea.. Moreover, he brought a small stool for little Ye to ce her tea bowl, so she didnt have to hold it in her hands. Little Ye put down the book and asked him, You are quite particr about making tea. Mmm, General Qian did it like this. He said in this way it wouldt taste so harsh. She took a sip and added, It tastes really good. As long as you like it, he said. Then, he sat next to her, wanting to see what she needed. Ye Xiaoxian asked, Sit, why do you keep looking at me? The stool in the room had already been used to brew tea, so he could only sit by the bed, next to her. She suddenly felt a little hot inside and started sweating. But she could clearly hear the screams of the wind outside. Ye Xiaoxian asked him again, Did you live at General Qians house in Baoning city? Baoshan nodded, Yes. Then you two have many things to talk about. About what do you two men talk together every day? she asked. Baoshan thought about it and said, Just things about marching and war. Arent you not having a war now? Maybe there will be war in the future, he said, now the war in the north is rising, there can be a fierce battle at any time. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Even if that is the case, you dont have to live together and chat everyday. Baoshan seemed to taste something else. Little Ye had something in her words, so he asked, Little Ye, do you think I have other thoughts? Little Ye said angrily, Who knows? Im not following you every day. And we are not familiar now, so who cares what you do in the city? Baoshan was obviously mistaken, which made him very unhappy, but he couldnt exin. Little Ye must be suspecting that he had another woman outside. He said, I can swear to the heavens that I really only talk about war with General Qian Qi. If I have any other intentions, I will suffer the disaster of thunderstruck! Ye Xiaoxian felt a little moreforted in her heart, but she still said angrily, Why do you swear to me? I have nothing to do with you. I am the woman who was abandoned! It was my fault. I didnt exin clearly and abandoned you. I really didnt know what to do at that time. Once my identity was exposed, I would definitely get revenge. Theres no difference. In the end, I was abandoned anyway. Were nothing now, and youre not treating me as your wife, She continued to gamble. Baoshan was instantly anxious. He asked, How didnt I treat you as my wife? It was you who kept to be angry at me. As long as I appeared in front of you, you would be angry. You abandoned me, and then you almost married another woman. Can I not be angry? She asked. Its my fault, but Ive always wanted you to tell me what I should do to ease your anger. You ignored me and were unwilling to talk to me. You were even annoyed when I simply appeared by your side, even if I didnt say a word. ... This was the only time they had such an intensemunication. Even though it was an argument, at least they had expressed everything in their heart. Ye Xiaoxian tried to calm down. Yeah, she did treat him coldly at first, butter on, she didnt anymore. She hoped that he would take the initiative, but he hid himself in his shell like a turtle. After a while, she asked him, Thenst time at the Six Kings Pce, why did you sleep on the stool alone? I clearly left a ce for you on the bed, and you didnte over. ...... Baoshan suddenly realized something. He came closer to her, then held her hand, I didnt know at the time. I thought you hated me like before, didnt want to get close to me, and didnt want to sleep with me. She threw away his hands, Youd rather sleep on the stool alone than approach me. No, it really isnt like this. Im really afraid youre angry. If you said it earlier, Ill... Didnt you see me lying inside? I... I thought you wanted to keep a distance from me, so youy inside. Ye Xiaoxians anger was mostly gone and she thought that he was indeed a fool. She added, Anyway, you have abandoned me officially. Were no longer husband and wife, so we cant live together. Who cares about you? Yan Baoshan held her hand again. I can remarry you. I didnt call the eight carriers when I married you before. If you dont mind, I can do it again. I can invite everyone we know toe over to enjoy our joyous wine. How about that? Chapter 292 - Wait for You to Marry Me

292. Wait for You to Marry Me

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup Ye Xiaoxian pulled back her hand but this time she replied shyly, Who cares? When Xiao Baoshan saw her like this, he knew that she might not be angry anymore. He was overjoyed and tried to pull her into his arms, Its your business whether you care or not. Its my business to marry you. Even though Ive signed the divorce paper, in my heart, youve always been my wife. My feelings for you have never changed. What about Jin Xiaoyu? she asked. Little Ye, Baoshan held her shoulder again, I dont want to exin this again. I met her when I lost my entire memory. At that time, I thought I had no family, and... Seeing how clumsy his exnation was, Ye Xiaoxian didnt want to listen anymore. She covered his mouth and said, Well, the more you talk about it, the more confusing it bes. Anyway, end your rtionship with her, and never find a second woman to drive me into anger. Who cares if its Jin Xiaoyu or Yin Xiaoyu, if such things ever happen again, I will never talk to you. Little Ye, have you forgiven me now? he asked. She thought for a moment before saying, No. He asked nervously, Why? Didnt you say youd forgive me? Only when youre ready to marry me. After little Ye said this, she struggled out of his arms and smiled at him before running out of the yurt. This smile melted Baoshans heart. He, who stayed in the room,ughed foolishly for a long time. ...... Ye Xiaoxian was in a good mood that day. But she was used to keeping a low profile, so she never told anyone about the things between Baoshan and her that day, but the Liu family and Yan family still noticed it. They didnt know why Ye Xiaoxian was so happy though. Was it because of the New Year? Baoshan was in an excellent mood as well. Usually, when they had dinner, they sat far away from each other. She didnt want him to get close, so he didnt dare to get close to her either. The two of them ate with several people in between them. But that day, Baoshan came over just as Ye Xiaoxian sat down. Originally the person sitting next to Ye Xiaoxian was Xiao Baozhu. Xiao Baoshan said to Xiao Baozhu, Baozhu, lets change our seats. Xiao Baozhu was stunned. Why did Baoshan take the initiative today? What happened to him? She looked at little Ye again. Usually, little Ye would pull a long face, but today, she didnt seem to care about it. Instinct told Xiao Baozhu that something must have happened between those two. She immediately stood up and gave her seat to Baoshan. The dishes tonight were very sumptuous. There were salted fish and dried meat. After Baoshan sat down, he asked Ye Xiaoxian, Did you make the food tonight? Yes, Ye Xiaoxian said. Thats great. Why? As long as it is made by you, its great, he said. Ye Xiaoxian rolled her eyes at him, Then you can eat more. Of course. ... It was a very ordinary conversation, but others who heard them looked surprised. Not only were Baoshan and little Ye sitting together, they even talked! No wonder little Ye was happy all day. The te of dried meat was far away and little Ye couldnt pick it up. But Baoshan helped her and put it in her bowl very naturally. Ye Xiaoxian didnt say thank you. In short, she atefortably and naturally. Baozhu kicked Li Hongmei beneath table, indicating for her to take a look at the two. Li Hongmei kicked back to show that she got it. ...... It was night and Li Hongmei tried to sound little Ye out. little Ye, what about letting Bao Feng live with his grandfather? Ye Xiaoxian knew that during dinner tonight, everyone was whispering, trying to figure out the rtionship between Baoshan and her. Therefore, Li Hongmei was prying. She pretended not to understand and asked, Isnt Bao Feng living well with his second brother? There is no need to move to his grandfathers ce. Grandfather snored so loudly that would be too noisy for Bao Feng. Even though Bao Feng doesnt have to attend sses now, he still has to study during the day. If he cant sleep well at night, how can he read during the day? Then should I build a yurt for Baofeng alone? Li Hongmei asked. Its best not to. There arent many new yurts left in the warehouse. If he lives alone, you have to prepare stove and firewood. Its a waste. Let him live with his second brother. Li Hongmei didnt understand. The two of them didnt look like they were in trouble anymore. Howe they still didnt want to live together? Could it be that they were shy and worried that others would make fun of them? Li Hongmei thought again. It was best not to be impatient. This kind of thing mainly depended on the development of the two of them. If others were too anxious, things would turn out to be the opposite. Just give the two of them more time. On the other hand, Ye Xiaoxian lied on the bed and thought of Baoshan. Was this a second love? In any case, she was going to find back her pride. She was the woman who had been forced to divorce, so she wouldnt forgive Baoshan unless he marries her with therge sedan chairs. ...... The Second Farm. Tarico and the others were also celebrating the New Year. Of course, the customs of their tribe are different. The New Year is not a major holiday for them. They were celebrating just because they have Zhongyuan people in their team. Tarico braised a pot of fish and ughtered a sheep to makemb hotpot. Last time at the riverside, after Tarico and Jin Xiaoyu almost kissed each other, Tarico restrained himself and his pursuit for her was not that strong. He was worried that Jin Xiaoyu would really mistake him as a yboy. Jin Xiaoyu, on the other hand, didnt mention a single word about that asion. She didnt mind chatting and drinking with the others. Now that Tarico had stewedmb and fish, Jin Xiaoyu saw that the meal was so sumptuous, so she brought Little Xun over happily. She even reminded Little Xun to eat as much as he wanted. That night, they were drinking while eating meat. Everyone was drunk. Jin Xiaoyu also drank recklessly. Even Little Xun tasted a little alcohol. He didnt have the tolerance to drink and fell asleep soon after it. After Jin Xiaoyu drank a lot, she felt like someone carried her in a daze. She squinted and saw Tarico. Tarico first carried Little Xun back to their yurt and then came to carry Jin Xiaoyu. After putting Jin Xiaoyu on the bed, Tarico stared at her for a while. Jin Xiaoyu also stared at him. She was drunk now. Even if Tarico wanted to do something to her, she couldnt resist. But Tarico only looked at her for a while before getting up and leaving. At this moment, Jin Xiaoyu suddenly reached out to hold him. Tarico was stunned. Jin Xiaoyuughed and pulled Tarico to her. She smiled, Tarico, do you... like me a lot? Tarico admits, Of course. Do you like me, or... little Ye more? You care about little Ye very much. You like topare yourself to her, but I think each of you shines in your own way. No, you must tell me today, am I better or is she better? Jin Xiaoyu insisted to know the answer. Tarico thought for a moment and said, The person I like right now is you. So of course, you are better. Jin Xiaoyuughed again. Tarico, do you want me? Tarico swallowed and acquiesced. Jin Xiaoyu pulled him to her side and let him lie down with her. Tarico had only seen such a scene in the dungeon of Beihui city, so he was scared by Jin Xiaoyus actions and didnt dare move. Did she want to... dedicate herself to him? His heart skipped a beat. Did she really ept him? Jin Xiaoyu touched Taricos face and said, You are really handsome. If I were to be with you tonight, there would be no lost for me. After all, youre a young and handsome young man. Tarico was so excited that he was about to pounce on her. But Jin Xiaoyu said at this time, Just one night. Tarico, ... Jin Xiaoyu chuckled, I eat your food and drink your wine without paying you anything, and now you even take care of me. Right now, I dont have any money, so Ill just stay with you for a night in return. Do you... think its okay? Tarico was initially excited, but when he heard Jin Xiaoyus words, his blood suddenly turned cold as if his whole body was frozen. He angrily pushed her away and left her yurt. Jin Xiaoyu pouted and said, Forget about it. I took such an initiative and you didnt care about it. You wont have this chance anymore. ...... The next day, Jin Xiaoyu slept until noon. She was actually woken up by a mountain song. It was Taricos voice. This mountain song was different from usual. Usually, it sounded cheerful. Although she couldnt understand what he was singing, the tune was elegant and yful. Todays tune was a little sad. Jin Xiaoyu suddenly remembered what happenedst night. She held Taricos hand and wanted to offer her to him so that she could repay his care for her and Little Xun for all these days. Thinking of this, she couldnt help but pat her head. The reason why she had this thought was because she thought of her contribution when she was enjoying the mealst night. Tarico took good care of her and served her well. Aside from picking the fire wood, she had never done anything in return. She had never been a person who liked to rely on people since she was young. She felt that Tarico treated her so well, so she had to show some sincerity. So when she was half-drunk, she thought of giving herself to him. After all, she didnt have much money and she couldnt do anything else. Even if she went to the desert with the camel team, she didnt actually make any contributions. It seemed that she had upset Tarico now. That kid didnt just want her body, he wanted all of her. Jin Xiaoyu still had a headache, but she endured the pain and got up. Little Xun was awake and went out to have fun. She put on her clothes and walked out of the yurt. The wind outside was strong. A st of cold wind went through, making her feel much more awakened. Following the voice of singing, she saw Tarico on the mountaintop. Tarico seemed to be finding himself some outlet, his voice was bing increasingly loud and sorrowful. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt help but walk towards him. Tarico knew Jin Xiaoyu was here but ignored her. He still sang his own song. Jin Xiaoyu didnt call him but sat down beside him and listened carefully to what he was singing. Chapter 293 - Will You Still Keep Me?

293. Will You Still Keep Me?

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup Unfortunately, she didnt understand a word. She listened to Taricos hoarse voice and was worried about his throat, so she called him, Tarico, can you stop singing? Its loud and noisy. Tarico stopped and looked at her with depression. Jin Xiaoyu smiled. As expected, he was just a big boy who hadnt grown up yet. Such a slight setback had discouraged him like this. Tarico, what happenedst night was my fault. Can I apologize to you? Jin Xiaoyu said. Tarico asked her, Have you always been like this before? If someone is nice to you, do you always repay that person with your body? Jin Xiaoyu said, Not really. It depends. If I like him, then I will repay him with myself. But if I dont like him, perhaps Ill kill him. Tarico, ... Jin Xiaoyu added, I dont want to keep any secret from you. Im never some innocent virgin. Someone like me isnt worth your liking. If youre disappointed with me, I can take Little Xun and leave here. You want to leave? Tarico asked in surprise. Im really of no help here. Now that youre angry, will you still keep me? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Tarico walked up to her angrily, Who do you think you are?! You think you can leave or stay whenever you want to? I wont allow you to leave. You dont hate me? she asked. What do I hate you for? Ive hurt your heart. Im not worthy of your liking. I have an unbearablely disgraceful past. I over-indulge myself. Why are you keeping such a person? Tarico got worked up again. Stop saying such nonsense. The reason that you be like this is not your fault, it is mine. Jin Xiaoyu thought it was funny and asked, Your fault? In which way? Its my fault that I hadnt had met you earlier. If I had met you earlier, you wouldnt be like this now! Jin Xiaoyu, ... This brat, why is he so serious? ...... Little Xun got up early today and followed Mcginon to herd the sheep. There was no need to look after the sheep all the time. They only needed to find a ce for the sheep to eat the grass. Besides, they didnt have many sheep, instead, what was more important was to look after the camel. After Mcginon brought the sheep out, he went to cut the camel grass and let Little Xun y alone. Little Xun ran around the grass field, picked the wild flowers, and chased after the butterflies on the meadow. As he was ying, someone suddenly walked towards him. This man was full of beard and was tall. Little Xun could tell easily that he was from the local tribe. Little Xun liked the local people, but he felt that the person walking towards him looked a little fierce. This person was Mahal. Mahal came out for herding and saw Little Xun ying around by himself. He couldnt help but ask, Why are you here? Your farm is not here. Little Xun said sorry and was about to go back when Mahal stopped him, Hey, child, are you from the Zhongyuan Area? Little Xun nodded. You dont look like a refugee. Refugees arent like you. You are fair-skinned and innocent. Theyre all brown and dark. Little Xun felt that this sentence sounded like apliment, so he said, Thank you. Oh, youre quite polite. Wheres your family? Mahal asked again. Little Xun didnt say anything. You only have one sister? Is she your real sister? Mahal had seen Jin Xiaoyu a few times and felt that Jin Xiaoyu was not easy to mess with, and Jin Xiaoyus temperament waspletely different from Little Xuns. Little Xun remained silent. He knew that his background could not be easily exposed, otherwise his enemies would chase after him. Why are you suddenly mute, Mahal said in the local dialect. Little Xun felt that he couldnt talk to Mahal anymore, so he bowed to Mahal, turned back and ran away. Mahal could not help but say, Humph, hes so wary of me, just like a thief. ...... Winter passed away soon and the people from the second farm were about to return. Once they returned, the festival of animals would begin again. This was the third time Ye Xiaoxian had celebrated the festival. They hadpletely integrated into the local customs of the tribe and followed the local herders to prepare cows and sheep for ritual sacrifices. Ye Xiaoxian and Squire Liu were busy, while Baoshan followed Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian and him were no longer indifferent to each other. The two of them would bicker and make jokes with each other. That day, Ye Xiaoxian was roasting three sheep. Even though they would be used as a sacrifice, it would still be eaten by people in the end, so she had to do this herself, not the others. Ye Xiaoxian wiped the processed sheep with the sauce she had made, then put it on the fire to roast, while Baoshan helped her. The three sheep were roasted together, and she broke out in sweat in a short while. Xiao Baoshan, on the other hand, wiped her sweat with a little handkerchief and helped turned the sheep. Are you tired? Xiao Baoshan asked her asionally. No. When its done, lets go back to the yurt and Ill do a message for you, Xiao Baoshan said. Ye Xiaoxian replied shyly, Who needs you? I can message myself. Dont ever think about eating my tofu. What do you mean by eating your tofu? Take advantage of me. But we are husband and wife, how can I take advantage of you? Yan Baoshan asked. We are not husband and wife. Youre not even ready to marry me! little Ye said. Xiao Baoshan thought about it and said, Then, when the festival is over, we will hold another wedding ceremony. Ye Xiaoxian didnt reject and just chuckled in her heart. When Baoshan saw her smile, he himself was very happy. As he realized that there was no one besides him, he quickly kissed her on the face and Ye Xiaoxian blushed. She said, Dont do that. However, Baoshan remembered that she told him before, when a girl said no, she actually meant yes. ...... After Jin Xiaoyu came back from the second farm, she returned to the original ce that she used to live im. She still didnt ept Tarico. However, she didnt know how long she could keep refusing him under Taricos passionate pursuit. Yes, he was young, but he was honest and mature. He was at times cynical, but he cared about her a lot. He was a member of the tribe, and his living habits was entirely different from hers. Originally, she only liked the men from Zhongyuan Area, who were refined and courteous. However, towards those rough and wild men from the tribe, she felt nothing more but admiration. But after a winter, she was worried that her faith and preference would be shaken, so she couldnt wait to escape back. As long as she didnt see Tarico, she didnt need to face his burning eyes. As long as she didnt see him, he wouldnt be disappointed by her repeated rejections. It was time for the Animal Festival and Jin Xiaoyu was also helping to prepare. At the same time, she was also quietly observing Xiao Baoshan and Ye Xiaoxian. She found that on the surface, they seemed indifferent, but in reality, their rtionship had changed. During dinner, the two of them would sit together, he would pick up food for her, and she would turn coy. When roasting sheep, they would stand together and he would kiss her when others didnt notice it. It seemed that their rtionship had already turned better. Jin Xiaoyu had an indescribable feeling. She felt like she hadpletely be an outsider. The Xiao Baoshan that she had liked for a long time had never liked her. ...... During the festival, as the tribal leader, Tarico needed to wear the tribal leaders clothes and host the ceremony. Everyone in the tribe went to the ceremony. They prayed, sacrificed animals, and paid their respects to the God of Tianshan Mountains. Jin Xiaoyu was among them. She looked at Tarico. He waspletely different from usual. He was solemn and meticulous in hosting the ceremony, especially when he worshipped the God of Tianshan Mountains. Jin Xiaoyu remembered his vows on Tianshan Mountains and suddenly believed in his sincerity. In their eyes, the God of Tianshan Mountains was invible. As long as he made an oath in front of the Tianshan Mountains God, he must not vite it. ...... Li Chengru and Qian Qi also arrived the next day. They came with selfish motives, that was to fight against Baoshan while riding on horses and shooting arrows. Of course, this time they didnt participate in the tribespetition. The three of them were the best in the Great Qi Dynasty, how could theypete with the tribes people? After all, this was a tribes activity, and those Zhongyuan people shouldnt take the lead. The first to participate was the local men of the tribe, including Tarico, Mcginon and the others. Without doubt, Tarico won thispetition again. The prize won by thepetition was still six sheep. After Tarico got the prize, he took the six sheep to Jin Xiaoyu without hesitation. Suddenly, everyone looked at Tarico and Jin Xiaoyu. Last year, Tarico had just be the tribal leader. He confessed to a certain girl on the stage, but the gril didnt ept him. Now, he brought the sheep in front of Jin Xiaoyu. Ever since Jin Xiaoyu came, Tarico had been very enthusiastic, so everyone in the tribe knew that he liked Jin Xiaoyu. However, no one knew if Jin Xiaoyu liked him or not. Whether tribal leader could marry his wife or not would be clear today. The local people started to cheer up from behind. Most of them supported and some just watched for fun. There was also a girl who was scolding Jin Xiaoyu for not being worthy of Tarico. How could the local tribal leader marry a woman from the Zhongyuan Area? Plus she was a woman who was so easy and wild. Tarico held the sheep in front of Jin Xiaoyu but didnt say anything. He neither propose to her, nor confessed his love. He just gave Jin Xiaoyu the sheep and left. He had to host the next event. Jin Xiaoyu felt her heart was boiling. If Tarico begged her for love, and begged her to marry him, she definitely didnt know how to respond. She couldnt say whether she was willing or not because it wasnt the time. Asking herself from her heart, Tarico was serious about her. He treated her better than anyone else, and he didnt care about other peoples thoughts. If they wanted to be together, the only thing they needed was her agreement. But she didnt dare to promise him now. She was afraid that if she changed her mind someday, she would hurt him. He had gave her the sheep because she had said that she had no money with her, and that there was no one else to rely on. The sheep was a big property of this tribe, so he gave them to her. Seeing that Tarico didnt confess in public and not knowing Jin Xiaoyus intentions, the public stopped cheering up. Chapter 294 - Old Geezer Xiao Is Dying

294. Old Geezer Xiao Is Dying

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup At this moment, Tarico announced that the next horsemanship and archerypetition would start. The contestants were Xiao Baoshan, Qian Qi and Li Chengru. When the three of them went to the field, they immediately attracted all the attention. Li Chengru was handsome, famous for his sofisticated horsemanship. The audience was looking forward to his performance. Qian Qi was a general. He rode on a huge horse with sharp eyes. His demeanor was not inferior to that of Li Chengru. As for Xiao Baoshan, people had been used to his low-key reservation. Now when they saw him riding on a horse, they seemed to see a different man. He gazed with his deep eyes at the target in middle distance, knowing his goal well. He was calm before thepetition started. Once itmenced, he galloped like an arrow out of the bow. His horsemanship was excellent, and he rode steadily on the horse, as fast as lightning. The audience didnt even see how he shot the arrow out and hit his target. ording to the rules, they could interfere with their opponents in thepetition. After Qian Qi shot an arrow, he went to stop Xiao Baoshan, who fought back. The two of them fought on horses. Li Chengru took this opportunity and shot an arrow. In the second round, the three of them fought fiercely against each other, which frightened the audience, who was afraid that one of them would fall off the horse and get trampled. After the second round, their strength was gradually known. The audience saw who got the upper hand and who was weaker. Even Ye Xiaoxian, who knew nothing about horsemanship, was able to see it. She thought that Xiao Baoshan was the best. She had always known that Xiao Baoshans martial arts were excellent, but she never expected that he had been hiding his strength before. His real power was many times stronger than what she had seen before. She clenched her fists tightly, worrying about Xiao Baoshan. The Xiao Family as well as the Liu Family had known Xiao Baoshan was a general, but they were not aware of his strength. Today, they were awed by his incredible power. When they looked at him, they seemed to see a mighty force. Li Chengru had high martial arts and his horsemanship was not bad, but he was a prince after all, who had never been to the battlefield and tampered by the war. Therefore his strengh and endurance were inferior to Xiao Baoshan and Qian Qi, and he was the first one who lost thepetition. Xiao Baoshan and Qian Qi were still in fiercepetition, trying to stop each other. Their horses were galloping fast, and it seemed the two men were going to fall off most of the time, but they managed to get back to the horse at thest minute. Tarico was awed by thepetition. He thought Xiao Baoshan was far better than him. He turned around to see if Jin Xiaoyu was watching thepetition, and he suddenly froze. The look in her eyes... She stared at Xiao Baoshan without blinking. There was not only awe in her eyes as a spectator, but also the confidence in Xiao Baoshans strength and deliberated reservation. She was suppressing her feelings. Tarico instantly understood. That was why she sat on the sand dune and stared into vacancy in the desert. That was why she said she would think of someone when looking at the starry sky. That was why she seemed to have something on her mind. It turned out that all the women that he liked took a fancy to Xiao Baoshan. However, he could only admit his failure, because he was not the rival of Xiao Baoshan. Taricoughed at himself. He was asking for the moon. ... The three of thempeted for a long time until it got dark. Even though Qian Qi and Li Chengru joined hands, Xiao Baoshan won. Li Chengru thought he was inferior, and Qian Qi epted his defeat readily. It was dinner time. That day, they ughtered a sheep and stewed three big pots of mutton, which was shared by several tables. Everyone praised Xiao Baoshans high martial arts, saying that they had misjudged him. They didnt know he was so powerful, now they were convinced that he was indeed a general. Xiao Baoshan regained his calm reservation, smiling faintly. Later on, Squire Liu joked with Ye Xiaoxian, little Ye, I think you have to hurry up. Baoshan has shown his strength this afternoon. Im afraid that other girls take a fancy to him. If you dont restore your rtionship, there will be more girlsing here. Ye Xiaoxian said stubbornly, I dont care. Anyway, he doesnt have a wife now, and I am divorced. If he likes any girl, he can just bring her back. Besides, Im not bad, okay? I have many admirers. Squire Liu then said to Xiao Baoshan, Baoshan, you are such a tough guy, How could you fail to win back your wife? I say, dont y cat and mouse with little Ye. Just tie her back to your room. Everyoneughed. Xiao Baoshan finally spoke, little Ye mes me for divorcing her, asking me to give her a grand wedding, which requires arge sedan chair carried by eight people. When I finish my work, Ill pick a good day and marry her again. His words surprised everyone, who apuded. Ye Xiaoxian didnt expect Xiao Baoshan to say this in front of so many people, blushing. Did I promise to marry you again? You promised, Xiao Baoshan said firmly. Ye Xiaoxian didnt know what to say. She only said shyly, How annoying. She seemed to be rejecting, but everyone knew that was her way of saying yes, so they cheered again. Squire Liu said, There is no sedan chair in the tribe, as we dont need it for wedding. Dawu, take your woodmen tomorrow and cut some wood, with which you make a sedan chair. Nail it hard, and we might need it for future weddings in the tribe. Ye Xiaoxian asked, Why do you start making the arrangement? Squire Liu said, Well, its better sooner thanter. Why do you postpone? The earlier your fix this, the better. Li Hongmei echoed, Thats right.There was no celebration when little Ye married Baoshan. This time, not only will she have the sedan, but also a proper wedding gown and jewels. We need to prepare the wedding gown as well. We will ughter eight sheep and invite everyone we know to the party. ... Ye Xiaoxian fell silent shyly, ring at Xiao Baoshan from time to time. Xiao Baoshan kept looking at her smilingly, and there was no one else in his eyes. Jin Xiaoyu was there. She listened to the cheerings and watched Xiao Baoshan look at Little Ye with affection. Back then, when Jin Xiaoyu forced him to marry her, he had never looked at her like this. She waspletely defeated. She smiled and cheered along with the others, but her heart was bleeding. Li Chengru also looked at the couple. He had an indescribable feeling about little Ye. It was much closer than friendship, but a little less than love. He had thought of marrying her at the spur of the moment if she couldnt see Xiao Baoshan again. At least, she was an excellent cook. However, he found that she didnt love him. Although she imed that she had no feelings for Xiao Baoshan, he could tell that she had been hoping Xiao Baoshan woulde back. Therefore, he quickly dropped the idea and became her partner in work, making money together. Now that Little Ye got together with Xiao Baoshan, he was very happy for her. After they stopped cheering, Li Chengru said, Remember to inform me of the wedding day, and I will prepare a big gift for you. There was another round of cheers. Your Highness, I guess your gift must be very generous, right? Squire Liu asked. Li Chengru said, Of course. I dont have many friends, and little Ye is one of them. I hope she could marry a good man and lead a good life. Ye Xiaoxian said, Im honored. Li Chengru picked up his ss and proposed a toast, I wish you a long and happy marriage. Everyone ordingly toasted. ... After dinner, everyone returned to their yurt. Some people were immersed in excitement, such as Li Hongmei and Xiao Baozhu. In Li Hongmeis heart, only little Ye could be her daughter-inw. Now that the young couple got together and they would have a wedding, Li Hongmei didnt want to sleep, and she even wanted to have a few more drinks. Jin Xiaoyu also wanted a drink. After she returned to her yurt, she had been moody. However, she couldnt find a reason to drink. After Xiao Baoshan left Longmen Inn, she had been drinking for him for a long time. Was she gonna get drunk for him again? She had told herself long ago that she had to move on. Was she failing again? She could only try her best to calm down and soothe herself, drifting off to sleep. Xiao Baoshan, I wish you happiness. ... The next day. Li Chengru and Qian Qi set off for Baoning city early in the morning. They took Xiao Baofeng with them as well. It was time for him to go back to school. Li Chengru again stressed that he must be informed of the wedding day, and he would defintelye for the celebration. Everyone assured him that no one here treated him as an outsider. After seeing Li Chengru off, Squire Liu nned to arrange for Ye Xiaoxians marriage. He was good at things like this, and he would definitely put everything in order. Just as he was about to take out a pen and paper and make a n, his servant AWu rushed in, saying, Master, bad news. The old man of the Xiao family seems to be dying. The old man of the Xiao family naturally was Old Mr. Xiao. Old Mr. Xiao was a gluttonous andzy guy. When others were working hard, he hid in the yurt every day, warming himself up next to the hibachi. Sometimes heined about the coldness, sometimes he said he was hungry. In addition, he ate much more than others. On the day of the festival, there were of three roasted wholemb. He alone ate a roastedmb leg and didnt share with others. People at his age should be respected by the young people, who failed to respect him because of the way he behaved. They all called him Old Geezer Xiao behind his back. Last night, he didnt feel excited when Xiao Baoshan said he was going to marry little Ye. He only cared about themb, and he got drunk. Xiao Baocheng helped him go back to the yurt at night. Perhaps because he ate too much at his age, Old Mr. Xiao didnt get up today. When Xiao Baocheng went to wake him up, he found something was wrong, as there was no response. Chapter 295 - I Cant Sleep

295. I Cant Sleep

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup People ran to Old Mr. Xiaos yurt when they heard that he was dying. The old man was unconscious. His face was red, and his mouth was wide open. His throat seemed to be filled with sputum, and he could hardly breathe, looking very painful. Ye Xiaoxian came as well. From the look of the old man, she knew that he had a stroke. His brain vessel was blocked and he might be suffering hematencephalon. In ancient times, disease like this was incurable, unless there were miracle-working physicians like Doctor Xiao. But Doctor Xiao had already left, and it would take months to locate him since he liked to travel all over the world. Someone went to get the witch doctor of the tribe. After the witch doctor came over, he chanted something in a low voice to Old Mr. Xiao for a while. After he finished, he sighed and said to them, The God of Tianshan Mountains wants him, so he cant stay. It meant that Old Mr. Xiao was dying. Although Old Mr. Xiao was not a good person, he was an elder of the Xiao family after all. People were sorrowful to hear that. The old man looked healthy, but suddenly he was dying. In the afternoon, Old Mr. Xiao died. The woodman had nned to go to the mountain to cut some wood and make a sedan, but now they were going to make a coffin. The funeral came first, so they had to make preparation for it. Li Hongmei was very upset. Sheined in the yurt that night, My father-inw was capable of nothing. He couldnt help us with anything. When Baoshan and little Ye are going to get married again, he chose to die at this critical time. Now they cant have the wedding this year. ording to the customs of the Zhongyuan Area, if a grandfather died, the grandson had to observe mourning for a year. If a father died, the son had to observe mourning for three years. Yi Baozhu hurriedly said, Mother, dont talk like this when you go out, lest Big Uncle and Third Uncle hear it and me us for being ruthless. This is how it is. He was heartless, why cant we? Li Hongmei said angrily. Li Hongmei looked at little Ye. Little Ye, what do you think? Little Ye also felt helpless. She was so excitedst night that she couldnt sleep all night. However, she was disappointed today. She said, Lets wait another year. There will be ample time for Baoshan and I, and we can wait for one more year. The most important thing now is to prepare the funeral. Li Hongmei was a little indignant. I have been looking forward to the wedding, but... Forget it. Life and death are decided by fate. Your grandfather was not blessed, so he couldnt enjoy a good life. ... The funeral was arranged ording to the customs of the Zhongyuan Area. They made a coffin, but they did not y Suona (a woodwind instrument). After they kept vigil beside the coffin for one night, they carried it to the foot of the mountain the next day, and set up a tombstone. That was the end of the funeral. The death of Old Mr. Xiao came too suddenly. If he had had the chance, he would definitely have demanded that his body be sent back to his hometown. He had been thinking of going back. It had saved everyone a lot of trouble now that he suddenly died. After the funeral, they gathered together for a feast. When Tarico heard that Old Mr. Xiao had passed away, he came to give his condolence. Seeing that the people from Zhongyuan Area had a feast after the funeral, he was a little confused. Werent they supposed to stay in quiet silence or cry for a few days at such a time? Wang Wen and Wang Wu exined the customs of Zhongyuan Area to him, and he understood. He thought that this made sense. When a person was born, everyone weed him happily. When he died, they should see him off happily. Thus, Tarico joined them and had the feast. However, he didnt go to see Jin Xiaoyu that day. Thinking of the way Jin Xiaoyu looked at Xiao Baoshan that day, he was really afraid that he would suffer again like what he had experienced with little Ye before. He couldnt force her to love him. ... At night, Xiao Baoshan was reading alone in yurt. Suddenly, he heard Ye Xiaoxians voice, Baoshan, are you asleep? Xiao Baoshan quickly put down the book and pushed open the door. Little Ye stood outside. It was so cold that she stomped her feet. Come on in! Xiao Baoshan said. Xiao Baoshans house was as cold as ever. Apart from the period of time when Xiao Baofeng was back, he didnt light a hibachi at all. But it was better than outdoors, where the wind was strong. Do you feel cold? Xiao Baoshan took little Yes hand and felt it. It was cold. Ill light the hibachi. You sit for a while, Xiao Baoshan said. Little Ye sat down and nced at the head of the bed. She saw the book, which was about Military tactics. The hibachi was lit and it slowly warmed up the room. Xiaoxian felt much better. Xiao Baoshan sat down next to her. He was surprised by the arrival of little Ye, who wouldnt take the initiative toe to him. He wanted to ask, but he didnt know how to start. Little Ye saw his doubts, so she took the initiative to say, I couldnt sleep. I saw that your lights were on, so I came over to see you. Have I disturbed you? Of course not, Xiao Baoshan said. But youre reading at night. I feel bored, so I read it to pass time, Xiao Baoshan smiled. Little Ye put her hand on her thigh and rubbed it. On one hand, she tried to warm herself up. On the other hand, she intended to relieve the uneasy feeling of being alone with Xiao Baoshan. Seeing this, Xiao Baoshan simply pulled her hands over and put them in his arms, asking, Do you feel warmer this way? Ye Xiaoxian felt shy, trying to pull her hand back, but he held it tightly, so she could only sit face to face with him in an awkward position. Why are you so hot? little Ye said, Its winter, but you dont need a hibachi. Maybe I was born that way. Xiao Baoshan looked at her and said. She sat there shyly, making him want to kiss her. Ye Xiaoxian said, Grandfather suddenly died, and we have to observe mourning for a year. We have to wait for the wedding. Its fine. Anyway, in my eyes, youre always my wife, but if you insist on having a wedding before you get back to me, Ill have to wait. Ye Xiaoxian said indifferently, I dont care. She came over tonight to talk about this. Of course, she also wanted to see him and spend some time alone with him. Xiao Baoshan looked at her, starting to pant for no reason. The hibachi was burning, and the temperature was rising. His desire began to surge when they sat face to face. Little Ye, he called her softly. Whats up? She looked up at him with big bright eyes like brilliant beads. Xiao Baoshan couldnt help holding her chin and slowly leaned forward, kissing her lips. This time, little Ye didnt refuse. It was just a kiss, and people in love did it a lot. However, once Xiao Baoshan was aroused, he couldnt control himself. When he pushed her down, a thought shed through her mind. They hadnt got married yet. She had asked for a grand wedding. She had said that they would not be husband and wife again without a proper wedding. He had divorced her. If she offered herself this time, what would he think about her? A woman without principles! Therefore, she kept her rationality and pushed him away. Baoshan, no! Xiao Baoshan was turned on and couldnt stop. He willed himself to stop when little Ye got angry, but before he let go of her, he didnt forget to grope her. Little Ye said as she straightened up her clothes, Weve agreed to have the big sedan chair carried by eight men. We are not married without the wedding. Although Xiao Baoshan was reluctant, he had to listen to her. This was a punishment for his foolishness of agreeing to marry Jin Xiaoyu. After little Ye straightened up her clothes and said, Im going back. Otherwise, my mother will be worried. Xiao Baoshan held her hand. Will youe again tomorrow night? It depends on my mood. She looked back with a charming smile. He couldnt help butugh. ... The camel team was about to cross the desert for the first time this year. This time, Tarico didnt inform Jin Xiaoyu. Only when she saw people do the packing did she know which day they would set off. Of course, she was following the camel team this time, as she couldnt stay in the tribe. Since Tarico didnt inform her, she went to Tarico herself. She went to Taricos yurt, and he wasnt there, but the yurt wasnt locked. She pushed open the door and looked inside. It was quite tidy without many items. Everything was in ce, and there was a piece of clothing that he wore in the middle of the bed. It was a typical bachelors home. She looked at the decorations of the yurt. There were bull horns, tiger skin, and his self-made bow. In the middle, there was a new year painting and a portrait of ady. She guessed he bought them in Zhongyuan Area. When she looked at the portrait of ady, she was amused. Men like the same things. Suddenly, Taricos voice came from behind her, Why are you here? Jin Xiaoyu looked back at him and said, Howe you could walk without making any sound? Tarico said, I saw my door open from far away, so I slowed down to see who came. She guessed he had juste back from the bazaar, as he was carrying quite some things in his hands, including some snacks. He put away his shopping and asked Jin Xiaoyu, Would you like some water? Or milk tea? Jin Xiaoyu said, No, thanks. Her intuition told her that Tarico got colder to her, but she didnt know why. I have some snacks here. If you like to have some, take it. You dont have to be polite, Tarico added. Jin Xiaoyu asked, Are you taking these snacks for the journey? The camel team is about to set off, but you havent informed me, so Ie to ask you if you count me in. Tarico looked absent-minded, asking, Are you going this time? Of course, Ive already said that Im also a member of the camel team. You should inform me if there are any activities in the team. Tarico said lightly, Okay. We are setting off tomorrow morning. You can go back and pack what you need on the journey. Okay. Jin Xiaoyu was relieved after she got his confirmation. She was going back to prepare for the journey, but when she got to the door, she stopped and asked with a smile, Tarico, I feel like youve been cold to me recently. Do you fall in love with another girl? Chapter 296

296. Mahal Attempts to Report Little Xun

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup Tarico paused. From the look in her eyes, he thought she was angry. She didnt mind showing her anger, saying, Am I wrong? You are not as enthusiastic as before. What? You think Im difficult to get, so you change your target? To her surprise, Tarico was really angry. He abruptly grabbed her shoulders and pressed her against the door with the eyes of a furious beast. She was caught off guard and dumbstruck, staring at him with eyes wide open. Tarico, what do you want? Are you out of your mind? Sorrow reced anger in Taricos eyes. Do you treat me as a tool? A tool for your pleasure? You have a man you like, but he doesnt like you, so you use me to relieve your boredom? Jin Xiaoyu seemed to understand what he meant. I have never used you as a tool for pleasure. I just want to follow the camel team across the desert. I will do whatever your camel team wants. You have always been taking care of me. Tarico sneered, So, in your words, I ask for it? Jin Xiaoyu didnt know how to exin. After a while, she said, Im done with Xiao Baoshan. I wont dream of being with him anymore. He has never belonged to me. But you are still thinking of him. Ones love, like a lotus root, linked by fibres though divided. Jin Xiaoyu smiled, You are getting better at speaking thenguage of Zhongyuan Area. Tarico got angry and let go of her. Youre always like this. You only care about Xiao Baoshan. Who else do you care about? Jin Xiaoyu thought about it carefully. It was true that she didnt care about many people. Except Little Xun. However, she felt a little sad when she saw that Tarico was upset. She wasnt a heartless person. When Tarico gave her six sheep, she was touched. Jin Xiaoyu really didnt know how to exin their rtionship. She thought, Forget it. I will have to support myself and live frugally, so that I dont need him to take care of me. A man expects to be rewarded when he treats a woman well. She turned to leave. However, Tarico suddenly grabbed her hand and pulled her into his arms. He leaned against her shoulder and said, Maybe Im asking for it. The worse part is that I want to treat you well even though I know you dont like me. His words stunned Jin Xiaoyu, who was overwhelmed by his deep affection. Did he actually love her without asking for anything in return? This time, she didnt push him away. She just stood there in his arms, wondering. ... When the camel team set off, Little Xun went to see them off. This time, Xiao Baocheng and Xiao Baoyang apanied Little Xun. The children followed the camel team for a long time. Until they couldnt keep up with the camel team, the children doubled back, bouncing along the way. On the way, Little Xun saw Mahal. Mahal was riding on a horse. He was going to Baoning city on business. Seeing the children running towards him, Mahal couldnt help staring at Little Xun again. Little Xun had an air different from other kids. Mahal had bought a New Year painting of Zhongyuan Area, and Little Xun looked like the fortune boy in the painting, fair and chubby. As the children passed by Mahal, they suddenly scattered. Mahal had a bad reputation in the neighborhood, and even children were afraid of him. Mahal let out a snort. He thought to himself, I dont care about you filthy kids. ... Usually after Mahal got to the county and did his business, he would find a small restaurant for a drink. On that day, there were a few people from Zhongyuan Area in the restaurant. They somehow talked about the imperial court. Someone said, I heard that the north is in a chaos. A city has been lost and the refugees have nowhere to escape. They all fled to the deep mountains and get devoured by tigers. Is it true? Definitely. The imperial court doesnt care about the lives and deaths of their own family. Its fine that they dont fight. Now they dont even take in refugees. Is imperial court so stupid? If they fight, there will be casualties, but if they dont fight, there will be casualties as well. What do they want? They want a peaceful imperial city, and they want a stable court. I heard that the ministers who insisted on fighting were dismissed from their positions. The most pitiful one was Prime Minister Xun, whose family was executed because he took a firm stand in fighting. Some righteous men rescued him and his grandson, but... What happened? The imperial guards found them. The prime minister died, and his grandson is missing. My goodness. How old is the grandson? Hes only seven or eight years old. If he is dead, the family will have no descendants. Now the people in Zhongyuan Area are angry about this, but they dont dare to speak up, because that will cost their heads. ... In the beginning, Mahal didnt pay attention to the conversation when they talked about the imperial court. The Imperial City was far away. Even if there was a war, they would not get involved. Butter he heard about the prime ministers grandson, a seven-or eight-year-old boy. He somehow thought of Little Xun. He listened carefully for a while and calcted. ording to the time line, Little Xun came at the right time. Otherwise, why didnt hee with the earliest group of refugees? He came after the prime minister died. It was possible that Little Xun was the grandson of the prime minister. The more Mahal thought about it, the more excited he became. If that was the case, didnt Squire Liu and the Xiao familymit a crime of sheltering the criminal? If he reported them to the local government, they would be thrown into prison. And Tarico, who treated Little Xun very well. If the imperial court investigated, he would definitely be punished. And Mahal would be the head of the tribe. Mahal came out of the restaurant in excitement and was about to go to the government office. But before he got there, he suddenly patted his head. He almost made a big mistake. The government office was in the charge of the Sixth King, who was close to the Seventh King. The Seventh King was on good terms with the Liu and Xiao families. He came here to report, could he win? He might get beaten up instead. If he wanted to report to the government, he had to get out of Baoning city and go to other ces. Mahal thought of this and immediately returned to the tribe. ... Why do youe back so early today? Usually it takes four or fives days for you toe back if you go to the county for business. You have been away for only three days. Tandi asked curiously. Mahal was still very excited. Something big happened in the tribe. What is it? Tandi shivered in fear. Do you remember the little boy that came to the tribe recently? He is with his elder sister. The little boy might be the grandson of a prisoner and he is wanted. If I go report him, the people from Zhongyuan Area will not be able to stay in the tribe. They will be thrown into the prison and they might get killed. Even Tarico wouldnt be able to escape. Really? Tandi was surprised and suspicious. Mahal told her what he had heard in the restaurant. Tandi couldnt help but ask, But how do you know that the little boy is the grandson of the former prime minister? If you make a mistake, you will be beaten up. Mahal said, Of course I wont make a rash decision. If the little boy is really the grandson of the prime minister, I will go and ask for information. I can always find a portrait of him. Once I see the portrait, I will know. Danny asked again, Where are you going to see his portrait? I... Ill go to Beihui city. But you have to cross the desert in order to go to Beihui city. If you go alone, you might die on the way. Mahal thought about it and agreed. He said, Then I will go to Daan county. In short, I cant report him in Baoning city. Otherwise, the Seventh King will protect him. If the little boy is wanted by the imperial court, the government will definitely have his portrait. I will check with the government office in Daan county. Danny encouraged Mahal to go to Daan county. Daan county was closer, and he just needed to ride a horse there without crossing the desert. Danny said excitedly, Itd be great if the little boy is really a criminal. This year our family has suffered a lot in the tribe. No man would like to marry Guri. If Tarico could be taken down, our family would... get the upper hand again. Hurry up and pack. Lets set off as soon as possible. ... The north of the imperial court had been temporarily stabilized. But this is just an illusion. The imperial court was deceiving itself and the people. Their so-called stability was achieved by giving away Heihe city and shutting the refugees out. Now Heihe city was in the charge of Beiqing, and the refugees no longer came to Linglong county to cause trouble. All of them fled to the deep mountains. Beiqing did not continue to go south, the refugees did not cause any more trouble, and the ministers did not dare to remonstrate. Li Chengkun thought that the situation was stable, the peace of Great Qi Dynasty was restored, and themoners should mind their own business. Currently, only a few people of noble aspirations remained indignant. They were extremely disappointed with the imperial court, but they could only make some doggerel to joke about the current situation. Currents were surging under the calm surface. For instance, Yan Ziyan had fled into the mountains. Yan Ziyan fled to the mountains with more than a thousand refugees, and they didnt evere out. The people outside thought that they had been starved to death in the mountains or devoured by the tigers. Actually, they led a good life there. There were wild fruits in the mountains, and they could hunt animals. There were fish in the deep ponds, and there were various kinds of mushroom which they could pick and eat. Later, the refugees found a secluded ce in the mountain and built wooden houses, forming a small vige. It was like a life in heaven. There was only one narrow winding path connecting the outside and the vige, which made it easy for them to defend themselves and difficult for invaders to attack. There was no fear of soldiersing in to catch them. The vigers were very grateful to Yan Ziyan because he led them into the mountains, and the vige was called Yanhuo Vige. However, they were in the mountains after all. Although the primitive life was free, it was insufficient of resources. They needed arge amount of clothes, cloth, and kitchen utensils, which could not be made from wood. Chapter 297 - The Bandits

297. The Bandits

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup After Yan Ziyan and the vigers settled down, they got bolder. Yan Ziyan knew some martial arts. He organized the strong men to practice martial arts every day. After one or two months of training, the men managed some fighting techniques. Yan Ziyan suggested that they go out of the mountains and sneak to Heihe city to rob. In the beginning, the men were frightened after hearing his n. Yan Ziyan shouted, What are you afraid of? Heihe city used to be ours, and it was taken over by Northern Qing. Whats wrong if we go back and take things that belong to us? Everyone, think about this. Why do we have to reduce to living in the mountains? They took our houses and livestock and killed our family. Our homes were ruined by them. Now that we have the abilities, we should go back and show them that we are not to be offended. The strong men were greatly encouraged. Yan Ziyan added, Dont worry. I will ensure your safety. We act ording to our capability, if anything gets wrong, we will retreat immediately. ... After Heihe city was looted by the Northern Qing army, the whole city was now empty. It was universally known that a city needed people and trades in order to prosper. However, quite many inhabitants had been killed in the city, and refugees had fled. The people of Northern Qing kingdorm had not moved over yet, so the city had be the garrison base of Northern Qing. Yan Ziyan didnt dare to make a rash move. He first went outside the city to explore with a few of his men. After a few days, he found some loopholes in the security. Although Heihe city had city walls, and the city gates were guarded, there were garrisons in the viges and towns at the foot of the mountain. Yan Ziyan and his men started sneak attacks at the viges outside the city. They attacked one small ce every day, and they repeatedly seeded. Every time they made it, they left a word Yan, making Northern Qing people wonder who did it. Although Northern Qing was not seriously hurt by Yan Ziyan, they were annoyed by the repeated raids. Therefore, they med it on the Daqi Army. Northern Qing sent people to Linglong County andined, saying they had been harassed, but the city guards of Ling Long did not take this seriously. Heihe city used to belong to Daqi, but now it is taken by you. You have been harassed, and you have the nerve toin about it. Do you really think that everyone in Daqi Dynasty is a coward? Northern Qing knew that its troops were attacked by the refugees from the mountains, so they sent soldiers to attack them. However, Yan Ziyan and his men had prepared for this and set up many traps in the mountains. These soldiers were shot to death by the traps before they found the vige. Northern Qing troops came one after another, and all of them suffered great loss and went back defeated. As a result, Yan Ziyan and his men became famous. They named their own mountain as Ziyan Mountain. ... As Ziyan Mountain grew more famous, it attracted many heroes of the greenwood. Simr to the Marshes of Mount Liang, people who were dissatisfied with their life or the imperial court all went to Ziyan Mountain. ording to the rules of the greenwood, the people who came to join them had to bring gifts to express their sincerity, such as the heads of some corrupt officials, or the pass of a Northern Qing army official as a proof that they had killed Northern Qing soldiers. Yan Ziyan did not refuse to take any of them. After Ziyan army grew stronger, they did not make small moves when they went out of the mountain. They attacked the city gate, killed the city guards, and then rushed into the city to mess up the garrison. They smashed things and looted, rescuing the captives of the Daqi Dynasty. Northern Qing was annoyed and kept sending troops to fight back, but it failed every time. In the end, a most incredible thing happened. Heihe city, which had been upied for a long time, was actually reimed by a bunch of bandits. The news reached Daqi Dynasty and everyone wasughing at the imperial court. To my surprise, Northern Qing Army is so weak that it is not the rival of a bunch of bandits. Back then the imperial court didnt dare to dispatch troops to fight against Northern Qing. How ridiculous! If this is written in the history, the court will beughed at by the younger generations. Are the heroes of the greenwood now living in Heihe city? Of course not. The city was surrounded by Northern Qing army and Daqi Army, so they definitely wouldnt live in Heihe city, which is now directly taken over by the Daqi Army. ... In the court. Li Chengkuns face was gloomy. The atmosphere in the hall was tense, and the ministers were frightened. An extremely sarcastic doggerel was spreading in the imperial city, ridiculing the ipetence of the Daqi Dynasty. Everyone knew how to recite it, including toddlers. They didnt dare to fight because there was no good general. In the end, a group of bandits drove the Northern Qing army out of Heihe city. Yesterday, envoys from Northern Qing arrived, demanding Daqi Dynasty to get rid of the bandits quickly. Otherwise, their army would continue to go south and attack. After sitting in the court for a long while, Li Chengkun finally spoke. Im sure that everyone has heard about what happened in the north recently. The envoys from Northern Qing arrived yesterday, asking us to agree to their request. Otherwise, their army will go south to attack us. What do you think? Ever since Prime Minister Xun died, no one in imperial court dared to speak the truth, because it would get them in big trouble. Some ministers said to themselves, Why are you afraid of Northern Qing? Back then you didnt dare to fight them, and Heihe city was taken. Now a group of brave men have helped you get back the city, why are you still hesitant? However, they didnt dare to speak up. Seeing that no one spoke, the state preceptor said, Your Majesty, I think that Yan Ziyan and his men havemitted a crime attacking Northern Qing army. After all, the imperial court did not give them the right to do so. They are bandits, who deliberately ignore the safety of our people. His words scared the ministers into silence. Its unusual to have a great general arising from themoners. How can you use him falsely instead of taking him into the army and making good use of him? After a long while, a civil official stepped up and said to Li Chengkun, Your Majesty, I think... although Yan Ziyan and his men have crossed the line, we can recruit them into the Daqi army and make them atone for their crimes. If they could drive the Northern Qing soldiers away, we will not fear Northern Qings invasion again. State Preceptor said sarcastically, Theyre just a bunch of bandits. How do you think they can help? These people are unorganized and undisciplined, and they have no morale. They are useless. His words frightened the civil official into silence. Li Chengkun pondered in silence. The current situation was bing difficult for him. Chapter 298 - Recruit the Enemy

298. Recruit the Enemy

Trantor: Storm in a Teacup At first, Li Chengkun chose not to fight because he intended to stabilize the residences in the capital city, nor did he want to waste money on warfare. However, now thatmoners were saying that he was ipetent, which was not simply a matter of wasting money. He had to do something. Otherwise people could drown him with a mouthful of spittle. Li Chengkun didnt take the state preceptors opinion for the first time. Instead, he told themoner, Debuty Qin, what you said makes sense. I also think that we can recruit Yan Ziyan and let him guard the Heihe city. Just in case, we need to mobilize troops from wherever it is possible to support them and prevent the Heihe city from the Northern Qing Army. The courtiers were surprised by what Li Chengkun said. Li Chengkun didnt follow the state preceptor anymore. Did he have independent thoughts? The state preceptor was also surprised. But after all, this country was controlled by the Li family. Since Li Chengkun had said so, he had no right to refute. However, he still suggested to Li Chengkun, Your Majesty, Yan Ziyan and the rest are all crooks. It is not appropriate to give them such a major responsibility. Furthermore, I heard that they were refugees back then and were forced to revolt. If he still hates Your Majesty, Im afraid that after he canmand the army, he will make the wrong decision. Li Chengkun was deeply troubled by this. He knew how serious it could be, but he replied firmly, Lets see if we can sessfully recruit them first. Also, transfer some excellent local generals to the capical city, such as General Qian Qi in the west in case of emergencies. ...... The Imperial court sent an official into the mountains. This official, named Qin Yilun, was the civil servant who put forward the advice of recruiting. He was also a good official in the court. However, the further he went in the mountain, the more sweats he had. The mountain road was not easy to walk, and it was dangerous everywhere. Sometimes, poisonous snakes would appear on the ground, which scared him to death. It was hard to be a good officer. Giving advice was not enough, he had to make a trip in person. However, as soon as he thought about the chaos which would happen again if the war was on once more, which would made the northerners suffer. He had no choice but to bite the bullet, leading the two guards into the mountain. Unfortunately, he fell into a wild boar pit and almost broke his leg. Qin Yilun and his followers were not being rescued from the pig pit until next day. It was Yan Ziyans subordinates who saved them. He reported his identitymely and these people took him into the vige with doubts. When Qin Yilun saw the vige clearly, he could not be more shocked. Some houses were almost built in halfway of the mountain, others were close totrees. Under such condition, it was a miracle that these houses could have two floors: people lived in the upper floor, chicken were raised in the lower one. Since they had done lots of robberies over the past six months, there were tons of resources stocked up. The time when they had to share food together had passed. Now each family was independent, raising some chicks and ducks to support themselves. There was also a ce to train soldiers in the mountains, where the heroes of the Greenwood trained, making shocking sound of killing. Qin Yilun couldnt help but tear up. It had been a long time since he had heard such a high-spirited shout. This morale did not belong to the soldiers in the capital, but from the mountains. Yan Ziyan didnt take the official from imperial court seriously. He met Qin Yilun only asked, What are you doing here? Qin Yilun exined his intention but was rejected by Yan Ziyan. Yan Ziyan said, With so many people in imperial court and so much food in the national treasury, you cant even raise an army that can fight. While you count on we local viins to against enemy. We wont take such risks. If you want to fight, you will fight yourself. We wont fight for imperial court. The others seconded. Back then, they once wanted to enter the city and join the official army, how did imperial court treat them? The court would rather starve them to death than open the city gates. Now that they had recovered, there was no way for them to fight and die for the court. No matter how hard Qin Yilun tried, he failed to convince Yan Ziyan. He had to leave in dismay. ...... Qin Yilun disappointedly returned. The next day, when he went up to the court, he was mocked by the state preceptor, I told you that you can not expect a group of crooks to have any ethnic righteousness. We are willing to recruit them, but they choose to stand aside. I said, we have to gather our own troops to fight. After we finish dealing with Beiqing, we will kill these crooks together. They will cause big trouble sooner orter. Qin Yilun was also depressed. However, just as they thought there was nothing they could do with the recruiting n, Yan Ziyan had someone send a letter the next day. There were two requirements written on it. If both of them were satisfied, they could ept the former proposal. So there was someone called Wang Meng on Yans side. Wang Meng used to be a small general. Lack of reliance, he had surrendered to Yan Ziyan. Hearing that imperial court came to recruit, Wang Meng did not express his opinion at first. After Qin Yilun left, he suggested to Yan Ziyan with a n: it is okay to recruit, but the imperial court must meet their conditions. First, it was possible to block Beqing only when there were 50,000 soldiers for back-up and sufficient food and horse feeds. Secondly, after the mission waspleted, Heihe Vige and Linglong County woule be guarded by them. Wang Meng also said, As long as we control two territories, Heihe Vige and Linglong County, it is equivalent to a duke who upies one side. You will fell like a local emperor. Why not? Hearing this, Yan Ziyan couldnt help but feel excitement. The subordinates seconded Wang Mengs suggestion. These were all unwanted people in the imperial court, and they also wanted to wash off thebel of being a viin so that they could raise their eyebrows and let their colleagues who looked down on them in the past treat them with well respect. Therefore, Yan Ziyan epted Wang Mengs suggestion and asked someone to send a letter to Qin Yilun. When Qin Yilun saw this letter, he thought these two requests were excessive, but he still handed the letter to the Emperor nervously. Li Chengkun didnt express his thoughts after reading the letter, only asked for the officials opinions. The courtier didnt dare to express their opinions as well. Yan Ziyan required reinforcements and military power, which showed his ambition obviously: he wanted to upy these two ces and be a local general. However, what surprised everyone again was that state preceptor stood up at this time, indicatinging that the Emperor could promise Yan Ziyan. At the same time, the state preceptor gave Li Chengshen signals, implying that he could discuss the specific n after retreating. ...... After retreating, Li Chengshen summoned the state preceptor and Qin Yilun to the rear hall to ask for their opinions. Qin Yilun said, In my opinion, if Yan Ziyan is really capable, then it will not be a bad thing to make him the general of the north. Yan Ziyan is a citizen of our Great Qi Dynasty, and he enjoys prestige among the citizens. He can treat refugees well and citizens, then he will definitely keep safety in the north. Your Majesty might as will... promise him. Li Chengshen looked at the state preceptor. Although the state preceptor shared the same purpose as Qin Yilun, his starting point was different. He said, Yan Ziyan is a henchman. Now that he grows ambition, he will continue to be ambitious in the future. Today he requires two cities while Im afraid he will be crowned king tomorrow. My opinion is to let him send troops to block Beqing first. When he chases the Beiqing Army away, we will deal with him then. Qin Yilun took a deep breath. The state preceptor, this... Im afraid its not good, right? If he can repel the Beiqing Army, then he will be the contributor of the imperial court. During then, without awarding, we punish him instead. This will make people disbelieve in the imperial court. The state preceptor snorted coldly, I didnt say that we had to kill him. The mert canpensate for the faults. Isnt he a crook before? That is not allowed in our dynasty. Should this not be punished? ... Qin Yilun scilenced and talked to himself, The state preceptor is so deceitful that no one can match. Li Chengshen didnt say who was right or who was wrong. There was no expression on his face, which had stayed the same for ten thousand years. After listening, he only said to Qin Yilun, Debuty Qin, I am afraid you have pay another visit to Ziyan Vige and tell Yan Ziyan I promise his two requests, hoping that he can help me to guard Heihe city and Linglong County. Qin Yilun replied, Yes, Your Majesty! ...... Qin Yilun rushed to Ziyan mountain overnight. It was the morning of the next day when he reached Ziyan mountain. This time, Yan Ziyan sent people to wait at the foot of the mountain, so Qin Yilun didnt have to fall into the pigs pit again. He entered the vige with no trouble and saw Yan Ziyan. Qin Yilun passed the decree to Yan Ziyan. They were overjoyed. Yan Ziyanughed and immediately ordered his subordinates to kill chickens and pigs. They were about to celebrate in advance, regardless of whether they could defeat Beiqing Army or not, they would drink today. Qin Yilun thought what the state preceptor said and remembered that the Emperor usually follows the state preceptors will. If Yan Ziyan really seeded, the state preceptor would still deal with Yan Ziyan. As for the Emperor, although he didnt say anything. Maybe he was thinking the same thing as the state preceptor. There were several times Qin Yilun wanted to remind Yan Ziyan. But he swallowed the words in the end. It was not appropriate to discuss this right now. The urgent need at hand was to send Yan Ziyan and his subordinates to the battlefield to defend the Heihe Vige. ...... Yan Ziyan and his subordinates were granted, paid, and they became the military of imperial court. Their official position was not big, but still at the general level. They were satisfied with the treatment and soon arrived at Heihe Vige. As for Beqings side, they were infuriated when they heard that Da Qi did not ept their request, which made them decided to fight. Yan Ziyan and his subordinates swore to guard the vige. Thus, the northern war broke out again. ...... Baoning city. Li Chengyi received a letter from the imperial court, telling him to send Qian Qi back to the capital. Qian Qi found Xiao Baoshan, the two of them discussed in yurt for a long time. Ye Xiaoxian knew Qian Qi had arrived, and she heard that Qian Qi hade in a hurry. It was as though he had something important to do. She made milk tea and heated some snacks to give them. Qian Qi and Xiao Baoshan were both soldiers and they tended to speak very loudly. When Ye Xiaoxian reached the yurt, she heard the voices inside. Qian Qi said, I dont think the court called us back to defend against Northern Qing Kingdom. I am afraid that the state preceptor has another conspiracies. Chapter 299 - Salesman the Spy

299. Salesman the Spy

Trantor: ͷ Xiao Baoshan said, I dont know if they would let you defend against Beiqing or fight against a conspiracy. I know if you go back this time, you would possibly fall into danger. Back then, you resisted the order of the State in the crackdown against me. The State Preceptor mustnt forget a slight. He will settle this debt with you. Actually, Ive always set my men in the capital. One of them told me the day before yesterday that this Yan Ziyan was originally amoner, butter he upied a hill and became a local viin. They drove away the Beiqing Army of Heihe City. His Highness and State Preceptor even put this person in an important position. I dont think this is a simple issue. Xiao Baoshan said, Thats right, State Preceptor is not a generous person. With his way of doing things, he will not treat Yan Ziyan well. Therefore, the Emperor called me back to the capital at this time must be because he wanted me to suppress this Yan. After Qian Qi said this, he mmed the table and said, Who will suppress me if I can suppress Yan Ziyan? The imperial court uses a person like this! It is pushing the people into a pit of fire. Xiao Baoshan asked, Then what do you decide to do? If you dont go back, you can say you are ill as an excuse. Qian Qi shook his head. This is more suspicious. Id better go back, s! Xiao Baoshan stopped talking and the yurt fell silent. Ye Xiaoxian stood outside the yurt, thinking that this was not something she should listen to, so she left with the desserts and went back to work on her own business. ...... Soon, Xiao Baoshan found Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian was cleaning the room. When she saw Xiao Baoshan came, she asked, Wheres General Qian? Xiao Baoshan said, He left. She was surprised. So fast? Yeah, he has something to do, Xiao Baoshan said, You shouldve heard about his matter just now. Ye Xiaoxian was a little embarrassed and said, I just wanted to give you tea and desserts. I knew you were discussing something important, so I didnt go in. It doesnt matter, Xiao Baoshan said, You are not an outsider. Ye Xiaoxian blushed and asked, General Qian wants to go back, what about you? Are you leaving with him? No way! Xiao Baoshan said, The Emporer and State Preceptor might not know that I am still alive. But... Ye Xiaoxian thought about that Xiao Baoshan usually read military books, so she believed that Baoshan loved the battlefield and must return to it one day. Xiao Baoshan said, Its not time for me now, General Qian can handle this. That is to say, sooner orter, he will leave. Sure enough, he added, Little Ye, if one day General Qian needs me, or imperial court needs me, I have to temporarily leave here.. Ye Xiaoxian interrupted him without waiting for him to finish. Come back alive. He was stunned. She added, I mean, you can leave but you muste back alive. Xiao Baoshan was stunned for a while then walked over and carried her into his arms. ...... One month ago, Mahal and Dati finally arrived at Daan county. However, after arriving at Daan county, Mahal felt that it was inappropriate to report to the police officer there. The Daan county and Baoning City City were not far from each other. It was told currently that officers from different districts should protect each other, so what if the county magistrate from the Daan county has some affiliation with the Sixth King and the Seventh King? Therefore, the couple gritted their teeth and returned to Dinghe county. When they arrived at Dinghe county, they were relieved. There were many people from the Zhongyuan Area in the county and the countys government looked more professional than that of Daan county. After Mahal arrived at the government office, he went to ask the guards, I seem to have found a wanted criminal, but Im not sure, so Id like to ask the official to show us the portrait of the former criminal. The guard asked him, You mean, you found someone who is suspected to be a criminal? Yes, yes, yes... Mahal looked around, then said, Its a child. The guard thought that Mahal was here to make jokes, so he wanted to chase him away, Go, dont disturb me. How could a criminal be a child? Really? I rememberst year, wasnt there a Prime Minister Xun? He took his grandson and fled here. The guard was stunned. After a while, he ran back into the government office. Mahal and Dati were very nervous outside. Although the two of them were arrogant in the tribe, once they left the tribe and be at a ce with Zhongyuan people everywhere, they would be much more restrained. After a while, the guard came out again to let the couple in. The two of them entered the government office and saw an officer sitting in front of the desk in the middle. That person should be the county magistrate of Dinghe county. Last year, when the soldiers came to hunt down Prime Minister Xun, they only got his corpse but couldnt find Little Xun. The soldiers spread the news to the government office along the way, and immediately reported to the office whenever they got any news of Little Xun. This was an opportunity to make a contribution. The county magistrate dared not forget it. Now that he saw Mahal, he immediately asked, You said that you have some news about Prime Ministers grandson? Mahal nodded. But... Im just suspicious of it, becausest year, there was a little boy in the tribe who was about seven or eight years old. He is... this tall, and looks quite good, like a fortune boy in the Chinese painting... County magistrate interrupted him, Nonsense, how can criminal bepared to a fortune boy? What did you say he looked like specifically? Mahal quickly changed his wording, He has bi... big eyes, white skin, rosy lips and white teeth, with a little ponytail on his hair. County magistrate immediately pulled out his past portrait and found a childs portrait among the pile of criminals. He asked Mahal, Is it him? Although Mahal could recognize that the person on the portrait was Little Xun at a nce, he still looked at it carefully to avoid making a mistake. If he made a mistake, the consequences would be very serious. Perhaps he and Datis heads would be chopped off. Dati couldnt wait any longer. She said, Thats right, its him. The little boy from the tribe is the person in this portrait. Mahal confirmed and said with certainty, Thats right, its him. Mahal told county magistrate his identity, saying that he was originally the tribal leader of the tribe. Who knew that the tribe received a lot of refugees. Now that their tribe had been ruled by others. He told him how those new leaders did evil in the tribe, and how they protected the criminals, and how pitiful he was. ...... The county magistrate sent Mahal away and immediately wrote an emergency letter to State Preceptors residence. As soon as State Preceptor dealt with Yan Ziyan, he received the urgent letter. He stared at the urgent message and narrowed his eyes. Baoning City... Tribe... tribal leader? And a group of Zhongyuan people? Previously, he sent a subordinate to investigate, but returned with no sess. It turned out that the tribe was hidden at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains. This time, State Preceptor avoided attracting attention in his visit. Instead, he sent one of hismanders to investigate. Thismander knew Little Xun and it was impossible for him to recognize this kid wrongly. In addition to themander, there were dozens of soldiers following him to prepare for any emergency. He not only wanted to find out the rtionship between the Zhongyuan people and Little Xun, but also the rtionship between Little Xun and the Sixth King and the Seventh King. If they were rted, the Sixth King and the Seventh King could not escape the responsibility! ...... As soon as themander received the order, he left. When he arrived at Daan county, he pretended to be a salesman. Mahal was still waiting in a small inn in Daan county. As soon as he arrived, he led themander directly to the tribe. Mahal grew up in the tribe since he was a child, so he knew how to avoid Baoning City and to reach the tribe directly. In addition, he was a local and had been doing business all year round. He had brought back salesmen before, so he didnt attract the attention of the relevant people as he brought themander in. When they arrived at the tribe, Mahal asked themander to pick two big burdens and go from door to door to call for sale. Soon, he arrived at Ye Xiaoxians tribe. The children in the tribe loved when the salesman came. As soon as there was a salesman, they would rush out excitedly to see what the guy who came today was selling, and whether there was any delicious candy or something. Apart from daily necessities, there were also some candies from the Zhongyuan Area and jujube cakes. He called out to sell while observing the children. One of the little boys following behind had fair skin, rosy lips and pretty white teeth. Isnt that Little Xun? Although he was wearing local clothes and was mixed with a bunch of dirty children, themander was certain that he was Little Xun. Themander further looked at the surroundings. The people here looked very busy. It looked like a workshop. They were busy killing cows, sunburning beef, picking cotton, chopping wood. Everything was in order. In addition, most of the people from Zhongyuan Area were speaking the Zhongyuan dialect. Themander heard from Mahal that these people came two years ago. They shouldnt have much to do with Little Xun. He wondered if they just temporarily kept Little Xun. But themander didnt dare to drop his guards. He heard that these people were very close to the Seventh King, so they might be collecting money for the Seventh King. They had been here for two or three days and have even met Xiao Baoshan. Fortunately, he had only heard of Xiao Baoshans name before and had not met Xiao Baoshan himself. He just felt that this man was tall and did not look like an ordinary tribesman. In any case, themander had confirmed one thing, that is, Little Xun was in this tribe. After leaving the tribe, he immediately prepared a letter and sent it to the capital. ...... The imperial pce. State Preceptor rushed to see Li Chengkun with the letter. Your Majesty, I have recently found out about something, which really puts me in anger. It turned out that former Prime Ministers grandson was in Baoning City. The Sixth and the Seventh Kings hid him. Li Chengkun was also surprised, Oh? Is this true? State Preceptor said, At first, I didnt believe it. Later, I sent someone to investigate. He used to be my man in the Prime Ministers residence. No one knows Little Xun better than him. The letter he sent can never be false! Li Chengkuns eyes were instantly covered with ayer of fog, Sixth Brother, Seventh Brother, why did they do such things? I think they must have wanted to rebel. Even if they do not, they are still going against you, Your Majesty I suggest that we recall the two of them to the capital first and then capture Little Xun. At that time, we will see if they will admit it! Chapter 300 - Conspiracy

300. Conspiracy

Trantor: ͷ Li Chengkun sighed, But they havent shown up in imperial court all these years. They are far from the imperial power. Why should they do this? State Preceptor disagreed, Your Majesty, the Sixth King and the Seventh King have indeed been far away from the imperial power these years. We dont know what they are doing because of this. We dont know if they have hidden troops or who they will collude with. Why dont we call them back first and send people to investigate in secret. If they have really hoarded troops secretly, then the two should be eliminated as quickly as possible. After a while, Li Chengkun said lightly, Lets do as the State Preceptor says. Bring the two back to the capital first. ...... Baoning City. Li Chengyi looked at the summons in his hand, sitting in the main seat. Li Chengru sat in the guest seat and looked at him. Li Chengru already knew the content of the summons, which was to summon them back to the capital. He sipped his tea in an indifferent manner and said with contempt, The Third Brother is calling us back at this time. What is his purpose? Li Chengyi frowned. I dont know, is it for the war in the north? In fact I dont think so. He has already summoned Qian Qi back and now he calls us back. Is he going to discuss the state affairs with us? Li Chengru smiled disdainfully. Back then, he seeded on the throne and didnt summon us back. Instead, he put us in this remote ce. When the Northern Qing Army attacked for the first time, he did not summon us back. And now he summoned us back to discuss the state affairs? I dont believe so. Perhaps our position in his heart is even inferior to his subordinates. Li Chengyi frowned even more. If it wasnt for the discussion of state affairs, then it would be something that could worry us even more. For example... our armies were discovered? Li Chengrus expression was tense as well. If their armies were discovered, they would be in danger as soon as they arrived in the capital city, and they might be put in jail immediately. Li Chengru thought for a moment and said, If the armies are discovered, our family will be killed. However, this letter only summoned you and me to go back to the capital. Our family members are not involved. I dont think the situation is that serious. Li Chengyi put the letter aside and asked, The Seventh Brother, do you think we should go back to the capital? If so, when should we go back? However, Li Chengru did not have any opinions in this regard. He only said, I will listen to the Sixth Brother, but before we leave, we need to secretly inform Xiao Baoshan to arrange our armies safely. If we get in trouble in the capital, there is no need for him to save us. The troops shouldnt be used to save our lives, but to benefit themoners. Li Chengyi was obviously satisfied with Li Chengrus point of view. He smiled and praised Li Chengru, The Seventh Brother is bing increasingly wiser. You look more and more like the Fourth Brother from back then. Li Chengru didnt dare to bear such praise and only said, Nah, still far from him. ...... Li Chengyi and Li Chengru wanted to go back to the capital city, but the people from the pce of the Sixth King were worried. Li Chengyi had been ced in Baoning City for several years, and the capital city had never cared about him. They only sent spies to watch over him from time to time. However, this time, they suddenly called him back into the capital. Everyone felt that they would be a rat in a hole after they entered the capital. The Sixth Imperial Concubine, who had always been calm and dignified, couldnt help crying for two days. She almost blinded her eyes and wanted to beg Li Chengyi not to go back to the capital, but if Li Chengyi didnt go back, he would be offending the imperial decree. In this way, not only the Sixth Kings Residence, but even the entire Baoning City would be in danger. After Li Chengyi and Li Chengru arranged everything well, they went on their way on the third day. Before they left, they deliberately spread the news and controlled the direction of public opinion, so the people in Baoning City all knew about it. Now, everyone on the streets andnes was discussing how a good man the Sixth King was, but now he was suddenly summoned back, and if something bad happened, it would definitely be that he was framed. Regardless of whether this method was effective or not, it could at least win some peoples support. ...... In the tribe, Xiao Baoshan also received the news. He frowned and sat quietly. Ye Xiaoxian came in. He just looked at her with aplicated expression, as if he wanted to say something, but didnt know where to start. Whats wrong? Its still so early right now, what are you thinking about? Ye Xiaoxian asked. At the same time, she put down the pancake in her hand. It was Li Hongmei who told her that Baoshan received a letter early in the morning and didnte out after that. Li Hongmei was worried about Baoshan, so she let Little Yee over to take a look. Xiao Baoshan saw hering and said, the Sixth King and the Seventh King have been called back to the capital. Back to the capital? Arent they doing quite well over here? Why are they suddenly summoned back? Ye Xiaoxian didnt know much about the things on the imperial court. She could only judge with the various dramas about the imperial life that she had seen. Sure enough, Xiao Baoshan said, This is perhapsplicated. Will they be in danger? Ye Xiaoxian asked again. Its possible. Then... then what can we do for them? Xiao Baoshan shook his head. The Sixth King gave him an order that he must pay attention to the strangers who appeared recently. Also, he must ensure that the secret of the troops cannot be discovered by anyone. Ye Xiaoxian saw that Xiao Baoshan had been frowning, so she knew that this was no trivial matter. She sat next to Xiao Baoshan and held his hand Baoshan, if you want to do anything now, I wont stop you. Its just that you have to know your limits and dont act rashly. If its really troublesome, you dont have to care too much about us. Just act ording to your own ns. We will protect ourselves. Xiao Baoshan nodded, then hugged Ye Xiaoxians shoulder and continued, I n to go to Baoning City ande backter. Ye Xiaoxian leaned in his arms and smiled. Just go. I know you have something to hide from me, but if you dont want to tell me, I wont ask. What you dont want me to know is definitely dangerous. I dont want to have you involved, Xiao Baoshan said. I know! Ye Xiaoxian thought that not only was her man carrying a lot of burdens, but also he was hiding a lot of secrets. On the one hand, she felt sorry for him; on the other hand, she felt that it was not easy for her neither. She could have ignored him and lived her peaceful life. But he had a magical power that trapped her inextricably. Thinking about this, she sighed slightly. Little Ye, Xiao Baoshan suddenly looked at her and said seriously, If something happens to me one day, you must remember to deny your rtionship with me. You will make sure that you have nothing to do with me. You are the woman that I gave up. Alright? ...... Little Ye didnt understand, but she didnt want to do this again. She had decided to remarry him. Even though the wedding had yet to be held, she had already decided to share the joys and sorrows with him. Sheined, No, you always kick me away at important moments! Xiao Baoshan touched her face and said seriously, Not only because of you, but also because of mother and Baozhu, you all have to deny your rtionships with me. You never know what Ive done outside and who Ive dated. Little Ye, you have to listen to me. If anything happens to you, I will feel guilty forever. Ye Xiaoxian looked at him and felt that this matter seemed to be getting more and more serious. Xiao Baoshan seemed to make her sure about what he said, so he held her face and kissed her. Little Ye, promise me, he said. For a moment, she had no time to think about it. She was immersed in his kiss. He continued to kiss her until her body was softened and she almost couldnt hold it in. At that moment, she thought that if she couldnt hold it in, she might as well just follow him. But in the end, he stopped. He hugged her tightly in his arms. ...... Xiao Baoshan went to the prison camp that afternoon. When Qian Qi left, he took away the elites who had been following him, leaving only Little ck behind. Little ck was unremarkable and wouldnt attract suspicion if he didnt go back. Before Li Chengyi left, the instruction he gave to Xiao Baoshan was to make sure that he and Little ck must protect this troop location and not let anyone else find it, since Li Chengyi suspected that he and Li Chengru were suddenly summoned into the capital because this location had been found out. When they arrived at the prison, Xiao Baoshan asked Little ck if there were any anomalies here recently. Little ck said there was nothing unusual. This ce had already been very hard to find. Only some chefs and tribe people could enter and exit the ce. These people were on their side so there were nothing to be suspicious about. Xiao Baoshan was still confused. He always felt that something was wrong. He vaguely felt that there was a line connecting what happened these days, but they didnt notice it. If their actions were manipted behind the scenes, then this person must be a scheming and ruthless person. State Preceptor? What did he find out? Xiao Baoshan thought about it for a long time but couldnt figure it out. ...... At the tribe. The members of the camel team also returned. Tarico rode a camel and just entered the tribe when he saw Mahal standing on the mountaintop alone and looking in their direction. Mahal had been keeping away from Tarico for the past year, and he was not very willing to see Tarico. But now, he was staring at him on the mountain with a smug look in his eyes. Tarico couldnt help but wonder. Mahal seemed to be hiding some secrets. Not only Tarico felt it, Jin Xiaoyu too. Jin Xiaoyu asked Tarico while riding a camel, Isnt the person on the mountain the former tribal leader? He stared at me several times at the second farm as well. Tarico said, Yes. This person is cunning and cunning at first nce. He is definitely not a good person! Mcginon agreed, No, hes not a good person. He wanted to poison our camels before, andter he wanted to trick me into poisoning the camel. Fortunately, I didnt fall for it. By the way, he wanted to marry his daughter to me as well. Fortunately, I woke up in time. Chapter 301 - Separate Interrogation

301. Separate Interrogation

Trantor: ͷ Wang Wen said from behind, No matter what conspiracy he has, he wont seed. I dont believe he can do anything to us! The camel team was getting closer and closer. Mahal didnt hide away. Instead, he looked at them secretly from the top of the mountain. When Jin Xiaoyu approached him, she also looked up at him. He unexpectedly smiled at Jin Xiaoyu with contempt. At other times, Jin Xiaoyu had already smashed a big rock towards him. But now, she felt that something was wrong. Had something dangerous happened in the tribe, or... Little Xun? Wang Wu was still talking to Tarico, Tarico, is this old man provoking us? Do you want us to tie him and beat him up? Jin Xiaoyu immediately stopped him, Dont mess around. Lets hurry back to the tribe and see how it is. ...... The tribe was fine and so was Little Xun. Jin Xiaoyu let out a sigh of relief. It looked like she was overthinking. Also, Mahal was too good at acting and deliberately created panic for them. Jin Xiaoyu gave the gifts she bought from Beihui City to everyone. Everyone was happy and grateful to her. Walking around after she returned, she didnt see Xiao Baoshan. She didnt mean to pay special attention to Xiao Baoshan, but Xiao Baoshan was always too eye-catching. He would be the focus of attention whenever he stood in the crowd. Now that he wasnt in the tribe, it was quite strange. So when Jin Xiaoyu saw Ye Xiaoxian, she joked, Wheres your man? Did he go to Baoning City to chat and drink with General Qian? Ye Xiaoxian stammered, He... She was not sure if she should tell Jin Xiaoyu about this, including the fact that the Sixth King and the Seventh King had already returned to the capital city. However, if she didnt tell Jin Xiaoyu about this, there was no one to whom she could tell. Li Hongmei and Baozhu were not interested in the imperial court, nor did they have much ability to judge. Squire Liu might have some ability to judge, but Ye Xiaoxian felt that it was too abrupt to talk about these things with Squire Liu. Jin Xiaoyu might be a good person to talk about this. Ye Xiaoxian pulled Jin Xiaoyu aside and said, Baoshan went to Baoning City, but he was not to drink and chat with General Qian. General Qian has already returned to the capital city. Not only him, but also the Sixth King and the Seventh King were both called back to the capital city. Ah? Jin Xiaoyu immediately realized that something was not right. Ye Xiaoxian was frightened by Jin Xiaoyus expression and asked, Do you also feel confused about this? Of course. If this kind of thing isnt confusing, nothing in the world would be. The reason why the Sixth King and the Seventh King were summoned to the capital city must be the Emperor had doubts about them and suspected that they had done something unspeakable here. Ye Xiaoxian asked, Does establishing the camel team count as something bad and unspeakable? Of course not. The camel team is doing benefit to themon people. Look at the people in Tianshan tribe now, they are living an increasingly better life. And for the people nearby, bulls and sheep are sold, and cotton can be sold at a good price too. They are more than happy. Then... Ye Xiaoxian asked, What else can be suspected? I dont know. If the Sixth King and the Seventh King used all these ie to do things for the people, then the Emperor definitely wont say a word, but it is hard to tell if they used it to do something else. Ye Xiaoxian said, Even if they use the money to do something else, they will also try to cover it on the ount. They wont be easily found out, will they? Its hard to say, Jin Xiaoyu said, If the government wants to check the ounts, they have to start from us. Our ounts are never fake. Are there any suspicious peopleing to our tribe recently? Ye Xiaoxian said, No, indeed. Apart from a few businessmen, no one came. Jin Xiaoyu was relieved, but when she thought of Mahal, she added, We have to pay attention to Mahal. I always feel that he has a conspiracy. Then Jin Xiaoyu exined to Ye Xiaoxian the way she saw Mahal when she came back. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help but feel her hair stand on end. She was not optimistic at all, Why do I have a feeling that something big is going on here? Jin Xiaoyu said, I feel this way too. In short, lets be careful. Dont lose our sights. We have to be wary of peopleing from the outside as well. ...... Li Chengyi and Li Chengru headed to the capital city unhurriedly. They took the state highway, but it still took them half a month to reach the capital city. The two of them havent returned to the capital for a long time, but the mansion they lived in before was still guarded and cleaned by the servants for a long time, so they would always have a ce to live. Not long after they entered the capital city, the two of them were called into the pce separately. Li Chengkun was the one who met Li Chengyi and the state preceptor met Li Chengru. Li Chengkun had a calm steady appearance before he became the Emperor. Now that he was the Emperor, his thoughts were even more iprehensible. He let Li Chengyi sit down and gave him tea and desserts, then he looked at Li Chengyi for a while. Before Li Chengyi went to Baoning City, he was a refined prince. Now that he had been staying in Baoning City for a long time, his skin had be rough, but his face was still rosy and he looked very energetic. Its been a long time since Ive seen the Sixth Prince. The Sixth Prince is bing more and more energetic. It seems that thend in the western part of the country is a tough ce to work in. Brother is too ttering. I simply epted my own fate. No matter where I am, I will just be myself and do my best. Em. Li Chengkun took a sip of tea and asked, Have you really epted your fate? Back then, Emperor Father had demoted you to the border, but after I took his position, I didnt call you back. Dont you me me? Of course not. I didnt resent Emperor Father back then, of course I wont resent you now either. Although I have been on the border, I always remembered that I am the son of the imperial family. I would still pray for the imperial family during holidays. Li Chengyi carefully answered the question while guessing what kind of trick Li Chengkun was ying. The emperor even separated him from Li Chengru, obviously trying to beat them up. Li Chengkun didnt know if the emperor was satisfied with this question because his face didnt reveal anything. The emperor asked again, I rememberst year a betrayer of the imperial court took his grandson and fled to Baoning City. Did he seek help from you? Li Chengyi was shocked and felt he had a clue of Li Chengkuns purpose. He and Li Chengru werent summoned back without a reason but because of Prime Minister Xun. Did they know that Little Xun was hiding in Tianshan tribe? ...... In another pce, State Preceptor was also asking Li Chengru. The Seventh King must know about Prime Minister Xun, right? This man had always been against his Majesty. Last year, his whole family was executed. However, someone rescued him and his grandson, and theyter fled to Baoning city. Li Chengru also realized that they were called back to Beijing because of Little Xun. Obviously, they had found out about Little Xun. He knew that Li Chengyi must have been asked the same question. If their answers were inconsistent, they would be punished at any time. What should he do? He and Li Chengyi had not discussed this matter beforehand. Who would have thought that they were called back the capital city because of this? Perhaps there were other things, such as military deployment. However, they only thing he could do was to take what was already happening. Prime Minister Xun? Of course I know. It was strange to say that when I was in the capital city, the people had always said good words of Prime Minister Xun. It was said that he loved the people as if they were his own children. He was so experienced as he had served three emperors. How did he be a traitor after I left the capital? Li Chengru pretended to be confused and returned to his usual unruly appearance as he was in the capital city before. State Preceptor was obviously unsatisfied with the answer, The Seventh King means that we were wrong about Prime Minister Xun? Of course not! Li Chengru immediately said, Its been a long time since I left the capital city. I dont know what had happened here, so Im simply curious. Some people look honest and righteous from their appearance, but we dont know how many dirty thoughts are hidden under their looks, right? When Li Chengru spoke, he stared at state preceptor, which made state preceptor think that Li Chengru was scolding him. However, Li Chengru quickly shifted his eyes. State Preceptor could reply nothing but, Thats right, the Seventh King sees things very clearly. Although you are young, you really understand people. Li Chengru asked again, Oh right, what did you ask me again? The former Prime Minister took his grandson to Baoning City? I know about this, and there was another person who came together... What was the name? I forgot. Someone said that Prime Minister was dead, but his grandson ran away and he asked my brother, the Sixth King to help find the child. We searched the city for a long time but couldnt find that child. I didnt know what happened afterwards. State Preceptor asked, Oh? Is that so? But how did I hear that he was hidden in a tribe by you guys? What was the name of that tribe? Tianshan tribe? The Seventh King often visited the tribe and had business dealings with the people there. Li Chengrus heart skipped a beat. Indeed, they came for this. It turned out that they had investigated him and Little Xun. It was not a secret that Little Xun was living in the tribe. Then, should he admit it now? He didnt know what Li Chengyi would say. Regardless of whether he admitted it or not, as long as Li Chengyi and his answers were inconsistent, the two of them would suffer. At this point, the only thing he could do was to take a bet. Ah? Did you say that the Prime Ministers grandson was hidden in the tribe? Tianshan tribe? Li Chengru pretended to be surprised. I go to that tribe two or three times a year, but I didnt see any grandson of the Prime Minister. There are a lot of children over there. Which one are you referring to? But even if you tell me, I might not recognize him. I dont like children anyways. State Preceptor narrowed his eyes and said, The Seventh King really has great wits and short memories. You forgot that there was also a woman who helped the child escape. If the Seventh King cant remember the child, you can always remember women. I heard that woman was very graceful. Do you remember such a woman at the tribe? Chapter 302 - They Should All be Executed

302. They Should All be Executed

Trantor: ͷ Li Chengru suddenly smiled, State Preceptor, you are really unaware of your blessings. You have lived a life too well in the capital city that you dont know the world outside. Heres an example. With your identity as state preceptor, its easy to eat a dish of roast meat, right? Perhaps you will even be tired of eating roast meat as it is too greasy. But outside the capital,moners can only afford to eat a dish of roast meat once a year. This is the same as meeting a beautiful woman. What kind of woman could be raised in a small andmon family? No matter how beautiful the woman is, she could notpare with a yound pce girl here. When I entered the pce, I felt that everything in the pce looked better than that at the border. How could I remember a random woman living at the border? State preceptor smiled and said, So, the Seventh King means you havent seen the boy nor the woman before? Of course not, Li Chengru said with certainty. State Preceptor added, But ording to my reliable information, they are indeed in that tribe. We summoned the Seventh King into the pce because we wanted to know your opinion. If the Seventh King had nothing to do with this matter, then it was the tribes fault. They hid the criminals, so they should all be executed. Dont you think so? All of them? Li Chengru was shocked when he heard this. Now it is time for him to make a choice. First,pletely remove his responsibility in this matter. Even if they find out that Little Xun is in the tribe, it has nothing to do with him and Li Chengyi. Secondly, take all the responsibilities and admit that Little Xun is hiding in the tribe. The consequences of the first choice would definitely be that Little Xun and Jin Xiaoyu would die, and it might involve Little Ye and Squire Liu as well. The consequence of the second choice was that if they died, Little Xun and Squire Liu would also get involved. Li Chengru quickly thought about it and finally returned to State Preceptors question, If it is as what State Preceptor said, the grandson of the old Prime Minister is in the tribe and the people in the tribe are hiding him, then they definitely should be executed. There is nothing else to say. State Preceptor burst intoughter, The Seventh King is so decisive. You must have nothing to do with that little bastard. Li Chengru looked dissatisfied. State Preceptor and the Emperor called me and the Sixth King back to the capital just because of this? Isnt this overreacting? If you find out that Little Xun is in the tribe, just write to me and the Sixth Brother. We would just go and wipe out the tribesmen. State Preceptor stoppedughing and stared at Li Chengru. Of course, we didnt summon you back just because of that little bastard. It was also because his Majesty missed you. You are brothers after all. However, even though his Majesty took you as a brother, you might not think of him as a brother. What you said just now was just a superficial excuse. We still want to hear what your Sixth Brother said and see if his statement is the same as yours. Li Chengru smirked. What kind of brotherhood is this? Isnt this separate interrogation? State Preceptor was also cunning, How can the Seventh King say that to his Majesty? There is also a precondition for brotherhood. No deception is the prerequisite. ...... On Li Chengkuns side. Li Chengyi held up the teacup and took a sip of tea. During that sip of tea, his mind had already spinned countless times. Did Little Xun join him? How should he understand this sentence? The emperor must have got them by the balls, or he wouldnt have summoned them back. They were summoned back and interrogated separately; it was obviously a trap to them. After Li Chengyi finished his tea, he had an answer in his mind, Brother, is this betrayal the former Prime Minister? I remembered that someone hade to me and said that Prime Minister Xun had escaped with his grandson and arrived in Baoning City. At that time, I had helped search the city, but did not find them. As for them seeking help from us, it is nonsense. How could a criminals grandson seek support from me? Li Chengkun put a letter in front of Li Chengyi and said, Look at this. The Tianshan tribe is under your control, right? Someone saw Little Xun walking around the tribe and the Seventh Princeing to the tribe from time to time. If you dont know about this, then Im confused. Give me an exnation. After reading the letter carefully, Li Chengyi couldnt help but smile and said, Brother, this is clearly a nder. As far as I know, the people in Tianshan tribe were refugees from the Zhongyuan Area. They had lived there from two years ago. Since the Seventh Prince had interactions with them, he would assist them in trading so that they could stabilize their living situation. This was something that had been running for two years. It was obviously inappropriate to say that the Seventh Prince had colluded with them because of Little Xun. Also, Little Xun escapedst year. Sincest year, the Seventh Prince only went to the Tianshan tribe once, and it was at the tribes Festival of Animals. At that time, everyone in the tribe came out and the Seventh Prince didnt even know Little Xun. Even if he saw him, he wouldnt recognize him, so how could he hide him? Two years ago, after the upheaval in the south, many refugees fled to Baoning City. Every tribe took in many refugees. The Seventh Prince came to assist me in dealing with them. Not only the Tianshan tribe, but also other tribes. If the Seventh Prince is suspected simply because of this, how should we continue our work? Li Chengkun listened and asked, You mean, none of you know that Little Xun is in Tianshan tribe? Li Chengyi said with certainty, Of course we dont. If we do, I would certainly catch him and send him to the capital for you. Li Chengkun took a sip of tea and continued, Then, hiding the criminals is only done by the people from the Tianshan tribe. I should order that everyone there be killed. Li Chengyis expression changed when he heard about this. Li Chengkun saw it and asked, Whats wrong with my brother? Cant you bear to part with a small tribe, or is there someone you care about in the tribe? No, its just that I have been far away from the court for the past few years. I rarelye into contact with the matter of killing. When I hear that everyone should be executed, I feel a little bit against it. Li Chengkun smiled and said, My brother is indeed suitable to stay away from the court and live some leisure life. However, since you and the Seventh Prince are back now, you should stay in the capital for a few more days and discuss about the imperial matters with me, and give me some advice and suggestions. I am ipetent for this; how dare I talk about imperial affairs? Brother, dont be too humble. Even if you dont want to talk about imperial affairs, you can stay in the capital and have more fun. Life in the west is very rough. You wont feel the prosperity here as long as you go back. ...... After Li Chengyi and Li Chengru left the pce, Li Chengkun called State Preceptor over. The two of thempared their conversation and found that their statement was pretty much the same. State Preceptor asked, Your Majesty, do you believe that they really dont know? Because after I mentioned that I am going to kill all the people from the tribe, the Seventh King was confused but he agreed anyways. Li Chengkuns face darkened. If it wasnt for the deaths of the tribe, then it was the deaths of them. They would definitely be able to distinguish which is more important. But their confession was the same, which was a bit beyond my imagination. The key is that neither of them would protect the people of the tribe, which shows that they dont care about Little Xun. Even if they had protected Little Xun before, now they have given up, which means that in their hearts, their status was above everything else. They were afraid of you. Li Chengkun asked, In your opinion, how should we deal with them? From my perspective, first keep the Sixth King and the Seventh King in the capital city for some time, then I will order the people there to ughter the tribe. We could kill the little bastard and give the two brothers a warning to let them know that even if they are far away, they cant ignore your orders. If something like this happens again, they should know how to make a decision. Li Chengkun nodded and added, Alright, I will leave this matter to you. ...... Li Chengyi and Li Chengru left the pce, followed by secret guards. Perhaps they dont want Li Chengyi and Li Chengru to secretly inform the tribe, so they trapped the brothers in the capital city. The brothers found a restaurant to eat. This restaurant was the best in the capital city with the best chefs. Every day, young men from the aristocratic families came here to eat. Since Li Chengyi had not been in the capital city for a long time, not many people in the city could recognize him. However, Li Chengru still surprised many people, including some of the heiresses of the aristocratic families. For example, the heiress of the Minister of the Revenue had set up a banquet with a group of poetry friends. When she saw Li Chengrue over, she looked very surprised and wanted toe over to greet him. However, Li Chengrus face was very serious and she didnt dare to disturb him. The heiress returned to her private room and said that she saw Li Chengru but he was in a bad mood. Her poetry friends started to talk about it in all sorts of gossip. The Seventh King is still as unruly as before. He doesnt pay attention to anyone. He has been at the border for the past two years. I was confused that a prince actually likes to stay at a ce like the border. He doesnt care about his future at all. He only cares about his own life. He doesnt have a principal concubine yet. He has a few side concubines in his residence. But he even doesnte back to take a look and he still has no children. It means that he doesnt care about his position. s, dont care about him, just let him do whatever he wants. Its just a pity that he is so handsome. ... Li Chengyi and Li Chengru also asked for a private room. After they sat down, the two of them immediately talked about the situation in the pce. When they learned that their thoughts were the same, they temporarily sighed in relief. But as soon as they thought about the people in the tribe and the crowning cmity they might face, their hearts tightened. Li Chengru analyzed, I guess someone must have reported Little Xun but they didnt report Xiao Baoshan. I guess the person who reported this doesnt know that Xiao Baoshan is still alive. Thats right, it was because of Xiao Baoshan that I dared topletely distance myself away from this matter. I wonder if Xiao Baoshan can protect the people in the tribe, Li Chengkun frowned. Chapter 303 - Officers and Soldiers are here

303. Officers and Soldiers are here

Trantor: ͷ Li Chengru said, Not only Xiao Baoshan, but also the young tribal leader, and Wang Wen, and Wang Wu. I dont know who they sent to kill the tribe. If it is just the ordinary soldiers, then they should be able to deal with them. However, Li Chengkun suddenly frowned again. Seventh Prince, I remembered one thing. When we left, I thought they had discovered our ce to hoard troops, so I sent someone to tell Xiao Baoshan to guard the ce where the troops are. What if Xiao Baoshan isnt around when State Preceptor sends people to kill the tribe? Li Chengrus brows immediately twisted up. ...... In the prison camp. Xiao Baoshan has been thinking deeply these days. It had been a long time but still nothing happened in the prison camp, onlyplete silent. It was unlikely that the Sixth King and the Seventh King were suddenly summoned to Beijing because of hoarding troops. What could it be then? Xiao Baoshan still felt that there was an invisible line, which could connect all the doubts. So he kept thinking about it. One day, when he was about to have lunch in prison, Little ck came over to ask Xiao Baoshan have a meal together. Seeing that Xiao Baoshan looked depressed, Little ck wanted to make him happy. There was a piece of tofu in the meal that day. Little ck asked Xiao Baoshan, General Xiao, do you like tofu? I like to eat tofu the most. Xiao Baoshan said, Well, I can eat anything. Xiao Baoshan always liked to take care of people. When he heard that Little ck liked to eat tofu, he gave the tofu in his bowl to Little ck. Little ck felt embarrassed. He originally wanted to make Xiao Baoshan happy, but it turned out to be asking for food from Xiao Baoshan. Little ck added, Im a rural citizen. When I was a child, a salesman in the vige often came to sell tofu. I could buy ten pieces of tofu with one copper te. I didnt have money then, so I begged my mother to buy it for me. My mother didnt have money either, so we could only eat it once every two months... When Xiao Baoshan heard this, he suddenly raised his head, A salesman? Yes, a salesman. Its the kind of person that carries something to sell. Some sell food, some sell gadgets, and some sell pots and bowls. When Xiao Baoshan heard this, he seemed to have grasped something. His thoughts kept moving while his body was still. General Xiao, whats wrong... with you? Xiao Baoshan still sat unmoved. The thoughts in his mind were like thousands of lines. These lines were originally scattered and entangled, but they were slowly connected together and finally stretched in one direction. He suddenly grasped the key point: Salesman! A while ago, a guy came to the tribe and he specifically sold childrens toys. That salesman must have been spying on them. He must have went to the tribe to inquire information. What would he inquire? The Seventh Kings camel team? Unlikely, he left before the camel team came back. What secrets does the tribe have? Only Little Xun. In the few days that the man came, Little Xun followed Baocheng and Baoyang and yed around the salesman, so he was targeting Little Xun? But why were the Sixth King and the Seventh King summoned back to the capital city? To look one way and row another? Xiao Baoshans final conclusion was that the tribe is in danger! He immediately put down his chopsticks and told Little ck, Call over ten powerful soldiers or so to go to the tribe with me! Although Little ck didnt know what had happened, he didnt dare to dy Xiao Baoshans request when he saw how anxious Baoshan was. He immediately followed Xiao Baoshans orders and picked more than ten soldiers to leave with Baoshan. ...... In the tribe. From time to time, Ye Xiaoxian looked towards Baoning City. Xiao Baoshan had been gone for more than ten days and had yet toe back. But then again, she thought about it. Ten days was nothing. He even had been away for one month before the New Year. She then calmed down to work on her own business. She made beef jerky every day, went shopping with Squire Liu, checked the ounts, and asionally guided the life-support team to cook the meals. Jin Xiaoyu also helped. She always felt uneasy in the past few days. She was much more sensitive to danger than Little Ye. She had been wandering and making a life on her own since young, and she also had run an inn. She had seen people from all status had seen them talking about schemes and intrigues. Ever since she heard that the Sixth King and the Seventh King had entered the capital city, Qian Qi had been transferred and Xiao Baoshan had also gone to Baoning City, she felt that something was wrong. Like Xiao Baoshan, she had alll sorts of conjectures but she was always confused. She would also ask Little Xun if he had encountered strange people recently or if any strangers had entered the tribe. Little Xun said there was none. In Little Xuns mind, a salesman is not a stranger. After all, there are salesmen everywhere, and evertime that man came, he would stay there for three or four days, and after the first day, he will not be considered a stranger anymore. Until that day, Jin Xiaoyu found that Little Xun was ying with a wooden toy. She quickly asked Little Xun, Where did you get this thing from? I bought it from a salesman. A salesman? Where did this guye from? And when did hee? Jin Xiaoyu asked. She had been with the camel team for the past few days. Little Xun said, He came from outside and carried two baskets. What dialect did he say? Did he say the Zhongyuan dialect? Yes, he is from the Zhongyuan Area. He says the dialect very well. There is even no need to use body gestures. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt help but be alert. Did he talk to you or ask you anything? No, he was just selling things. Auntie Hongmei saw these little toys and bought one for each of us. Jin Xiaoyu stared at the toy in Little Xuns hand and suddenly realized the danger was about toe. Little Xun couldnt stay here anymore. No matter if the salesman was against Little Xun, she couldnt let Little Xun get into trouble or let the tribe get into trouble. She immediately pulled Little Xun over, Little Xun, its toote. You have to go with me. Where? asked Little Xun. I dont know yet. Anyway, well leave here first. ... Little Xun naturally listened to Jin Xiaoyu. He didnt think too much and said, Then Ill go and tell Baocheng first. Let me say goodbye to Little Ye! Jin Xiaoyu felt that there were too many people in the tribe, so she couldnt say goodbye one by one. Besides, saying goodbye was too mushy, so she decided to tell Little Ye and let her pass it to others. Who knew that after they went out, they couldnt find Little Ye. When she saw Li Hongmei, she hurriedly asked, Wheres little Ye? Little Ye? She seemed to have gone to the market. She wanted to buy a few more bulls. Bulls? Jin Xiaoyu was hesitant whether she should go to Little Ye or tell Li Hongmei directly. Forget it, just tell Little Ye. Its not too far. However, before she left, she was still a little worried so she brought Little Xun to Taricos ce. The date for the next trip to the desert had yet to be set. Tarico had juste back from fishing and was basking in the fis. Seeing Jin Xiaoyu bringing Little Xun over, Tarico was surprised and happy, Why are you two here? Since his confessionst time, Jin Xiaoyu had always been indifferent to Tarico. Tarico no longer chased after her, but still treated her well. Tarico, I will keep Little Xun here first. I have to hurry to the market now. By the way, I need to borrow your horse. Tarico had three or four horses. He pointed to the ck one, Ride that one with a saddle. Jin Xiaoyu asked again, Tarico, can you give this horse to me? Where are you going? Tarico felt that something was wrong with Jin Xiaoyu. Get out and hide for a while. Ille back after some days, Jin Xiaoyu said, Its hard to exin in a few words. If you really want to know, you can ask Little Ye. Ill go find Little Ye now. Tarico though it was the same telling him. Why did she have to find Little Ye? Jin Xiaoyu took over the horse and said, Tarico, youre a good person. When Tarico heard this, he stopped asking. He pulled Little Xun aside and said, Theme back early. Well wait for you here. Jin Xiaoyu got on the horse adroitly. Then she turned around and smiled brightly at Tarico. His heart suddenly became drunk again. ...... Jin Xiaoyu rushed to the market. Fortunately, the market was not big, so she found Ye Xiaoxian soon after she arrived. Little Ye! Jin Xiaoyu called her. Ye Xiaoxian just finished talking with the bull seller. When she saw Jin Xiaoyu arrive, she couldnt help but ask, Why are you here too? Jin Xiaoyu got off the horse and quickly pulled Little Ye to a quiet ce. What is it? Ye Xiaoxian asked, Why is it so urgent? Im taking Little Xun away! Jin Xiaoyu told Little Ye her guess and said, I cant drag you guys down. No matter if the salesman is a scout or not, I have to take him away. Where are you going then? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Well, theres always a ce for us to live as the world is boundless. We wont starve to death, Jin Xiaoyu smiled, After I leave, if the tribe asks, you just tell them that I have to leave and dont have time to say goodbye to everyone. Then why did you only tell me? Ye Xiaoxian asked. You are different. Whats different? Ye Xiaoxian asked jokingly. Were in a good rtionship. If I dont make a farewell to you, I will regret it. Alright, lets not talk about it anymore. How did you get here? Do you want me to take you back? Ye Xiaoxian also rode a horse. But she was not so good at riding, so she said, You can go back first. I ride too slowly. Youll be impatient. Alright! Jin Xiaoyu didnt waste her words and rode on her horse. ...... Just as they were about to get back to Tarico, Jin Xiaoyu suddenly saw Mcginon running over and shouting, Tarico, something bad is happening! There are a lot of soldiers outside, surrounding the tribe! Jin Xiaoyu was shocked. She kept saying that it was terrible. Tarico also ran out with Little Xun. He asked, What, what did you just say? Soldiers? Mcginon was in such a hurry that he said, There are so many soldiers surrounding the tribe on Little Yes side. It looks like they are going to kill people. You are the tribal leader; you should go and take a look. Chapter 304 - Baoshan Rushed Over

304. Baoshan Rushed Over

Trantor: ͷ Seeing that Jin Xiaoyu was back, Tarico was about to pull her over to take a look but Jin Xiaoyu told Mcginon promptly, Mcginon, quickly take Little Xun away and hide in the desert. Donte back for the next few days! Mcginon asked, Why? Tarico asked, Whats wrong? Jin Xiaoyu said with a pale face, Those soldiers may be... looking for Little Xun. If Little Xun is discovered by them, he will definitely be dead. Tarico asked, What about you? Jin Xiaoyu smiled bitterly, If this happened because of us, I naturally have to stay and take the responsibility. Let them catch me. Tarico then asked, So, you were wanted... We are fugitives! Jin Xiaorou interrupted, But we are not bad people. Ah, Tarico, dont waste time with me anymore. Listen to me, let Mcginon escape with Little Xun. Little Xun cant die! Okay! Tarico actually seemed very calm. He ordered Mcginon who had yet to react, Listen to Miss Jin. Take Little Xun with you and escape to the desert. Dont let anyone find you. Then he told Jin Xiaoyu, Are you going back to the tribe? Get on the horse, Ill go with you. Okay! By the way, did you just see Little Ye? Tarico asked again. Jin Xiaoyu didnt know why Tarico still had the time to ask such questions. I saw her. She rode a horse to the market too. She said she rode too slowly and was afraid that she wouldnt be able to keep up with me, so she let me return by myself first. Jin Xiaoyu got on the horse as she spoke. But just as one foot stepped onto the horse, there was a piercing pain from the back of her head and then the sky and the earth started spinning round. Before she lost consciousness, she only saw Taricos calm face and fell into his arms. He asked these questions to distract her. ...... Tarico carried Jin Xiaoyu on his horse and rushed towards the market. He stopped when he met Ye Xiaoxian who had just returned from the market. Ye Xiaoxian also saw Tarico and a person lying in front of Tarico. It was Jin Xiaoyu. She couldnt help but ask, Tarico, whats wrong with Xiaoyu? Jin Xiaoyu was like a sackcloth that was ced on the back of a horse by Tarico. Tarico didnt exin. Instead, he carried Jin Xiaoyu down, put her on Ye Xiaoxians horse, and said, Something is happening in the tribe. A group of soldiers came. They might be here to catch her. Take her away quickly and go towards the desert. Little Xun and Mcginon are already there. Ye Xiaoxian asked with surprise, Then... what is the situation now? If they couldnt catch Jin Xiaoyu and Little Xun, would they hurt others? Tarico said, I dont know yet. Im the tribal leader, so I have to go back. Ill do my best to control the situation. Take her away quickly. ... It was too sudden that Ye Xiaoxian was not prepared at all. Tarico added, Dont worry, I am the tribal leader. I will protect your family and wont let anyone in the tribe get hurt. Then, he turned the direction of the horse for Ye Xiaoxian and pped on the horses buttock. The horse was shocked and immediately ran forward. Ye Xiaoxian was so frightened that she quickly grabbed the reins while paying attention to Jin Xiaoyu in front of her, not letting her fall. ...... At the tribe. Everyone was stunned. There were suddenly hundreds of soldiers riding horses all at once, surrounding the tribe. Someone shouted, Everyone,e out and line up! Most of them were justmoners, so they didnt dare to disobey. Soon, they hurriedly came out to form arge line. Only Wang Wen and Wang Wu were arrogant. Who are these guys? Why are you here? The children had sharp eyes, especially Baoyang. He instantly recognized that the man leading the soldiers was the salesman who hade a while ago. He couldnt help but shout, The salesman? How would the soldiers leader pay attention to him? He frightened Baoyang into tears with just one look. The leader, who disguised himself as a salesman before, actedpletely differently from how he was when he sold toys. Find someone in charge of this ce! The leader said. Squire Liu was about to stand out when Taricos voice was heard nearby, Im the tribal leader! Tarico rode his horse and soon arrived in front of those people. The officer did not get down his horse, so neither did Tarico. Instead, he sat on the horse and confronted with the officer. The officer asked, You are the tribal leader? Yes! The officer said coldly, Do you know that hiding an imperial criminal is a crime? An imperial criminal? I dont have such a person here, Tarico said. The general took out a piece of paper with a picture of Jin Xiaoyu and Little Xun on it. You should know these two people. As far as I know, they are here. Give them over or I will kill all of you now. Tarico said, They are not here, they have left already. Left? The officer looked vicious. If they left already, when? Its been a few days. Is that so? The leader immediately waved. At this moment, Mahal also rode over. Mahal said angrily, Tarico is obviously lying. I saw the two fugitives this morning. Tarico must have hidden them away! Everyone was shocked. Jin Xiaoyu and Little Xun were fugitives. Arent they the ones the Seventh King wants to protect? Neither did they expect Mahal to be a traitor. Where on earth did Mahal get his courage? However, how could the two people that the Seventh King wanted to protect be fugitives? They had seen Jin Xiaoyu before. They knew that she ran an inn. What crime could shemit? Before the crowd could figure out the situation, the leader immediately pointed his finger at the crowd. At first, there was no specific candidate. Everyone was pointed at by him and couldnt help but take a step back. Later, his fingers were fixed on Xiao Baocheng, You,e out! Xiao Baocheng was so frightened that his legs trembled and he almost peed in his pants. Xiao Tieshu quickly stepped in front of Xiao Baocheng, Master, you... If you want to know anything, ask me. Dont make things difficult for children. Ask you? Alright, where did the two fugitives go then? Xiao Tieshu didnt dare to take Xiao Baochengs life as a bet so he said, I dont know. I indeed saw them this morning, but I dont know where they are now. Maybe they are hiding? What about...searching around? Wang Mudan was also very scared, but she was worried about Xiao Baocheng, so she stood up and said, Master, we really dont know that those two people are fugitives. They... they came by themselves. We cant just watch them die and do nothing. The leader sneered, Did theye on their own, or did someone arrange for them toe? Youd better make it clear to me today. Otherwise, this knife of mine is blind and can kill this little bastard at any time! Wang Mudan was scared and didnt know whether to say or not. At this moment, Wang Wu stood up and said calmly, They came by themselves. Its none of our business! Is that so? Who are you again? From the Seventh Kings residence. Ie to assist their tribe in herding the camels during this period! Wang Wu said. The leader knew that the Seventh King held no actual power now; it was only a title. So he didnt care about Wang Wu and said, Since you are from the Seventh Kings residence, as long as you cooperate with me, I will leave you alive. But I need you to tell me now, to which ce did the two criminals escape? I said I dont know! Wang Wu said, How can I tell you if I dont know! In that case, dont me us for being rude! What do you want? Wang Wu asked again. The order I received is that no matter whether I can catch the fugitives or not, I will ughter your tribe. So dont me me, me the two fugitives for hiding here, while none of you reported it. Everyone turned pale when they heard that the soldiers were going to ughter the vige. They all howled painfully. There were more than a hundred soldiers and all of them looked strong and professional. They only had Wang Wen, Wang Wu and Tarico here, leaving behind some old and weak women and children. They had no chance to win. Wang Wen stood up, If you want to catch the fugitives, then do so. Why are you ughtering the tribe? Whichw are you referring to and who gave the order? The leader sneered again, Of course, Im referring to thew of Great Qi Dynasty. The person who gave the order is the State Preceptor. Do you have any other questions? Even if there is, please go to the bottom of the Hell and ask the King of Hell! Everyone in the tribe was flustered and were holding together. They couldnt imagine what had just happened in a sudden. The leader raised his hand and was about to order the vige to be ughtered when someone rushed over. Father, I saw that woman. They fled to the desert! It was Dati, who shouted at Mahal. Mahal immediately reported to the leader, Someone saw them fleeing towards the desert. The leaders eyes turned cold. He casually ordered someone, You, follow me. Everyone else, kill all the vigers here! Then the leader and one of his soldiers rushed towards the desert. The remaining soldiers waved their knives, wanting to rush into the tribe. Tarico nced at the leader who went to kill Jin Xiaoyu, then looked at the people who were crying in groups. Finally, he chose to stay to fight against the soldiers. Wang Wen and Wang Wu also swung their knives at the soldiers. They would save as many people as they could. The only people who could fight were Squire Liu and the people from Xiao family: Xiao Tieshu, Xiao Tongshu, and Jia Zhenbo. But these people couldnt resist for long. One of the soldiers had already reached in front of Squire Liu. He waved his knife and was about to kill Squire Liu when Squire Liu was so scared that he sprawled on the ground However, he didnt feel the pain he had imagined. Instead, he heard a scream behind him. Apanied by this scream was the sound of hoof steps not far away. The sound of the hooves was so loud and rapid that it was enough to wake the dead. Xiao Baoshan rushed as he shot the arrows. After five or six soldiers were shot to death by him, the soldiers could not care about thesemoners anymore, so they turned to Xiao Baoshan. Chapter 305 - Little Ye was Kidnapped

305. Little Ye was Kidnapped

Trantor: ͷ Xiao Baoshan was an expert in riding and shooting. These soldiers couldnt avoid his attack and were instantly shot to death by him. Kills after kills, Xiao Baoshan and Little ck were fighting as if they were walking on tnd, instantly killing arge number of soldiers. When they saw Xiao Baoshan arrive and being so fierce, themoners were not afraid anymore. Everyone watched Xiao Baoshan and the others kill the enemy. The smell of blood permeated the air but it was the blood of the enemy. Many people were frightened earlier, but now they were not afraid to see the blood. They only felt that their hatred had been resolved. The previous screams came from them, but now the screams came from the enemy. Not too far away, Mahal and Dati were also stunned. They thought that they would see Tarico and the rest be killed, but didnt expect Xiao Baoshan to be so fierce. He was no longer a human, but an Aries. An hourter, the grass in front of the tribe was soaked in a river of blood and the corpse spread all across. After Xiao Baoshan killed these people, he didnt even take a breathe but started to look for Little Ye in the crowd. He nced around but didnt see her. Tarico knew that Xiao Baoshan was looking for Little Ye. He suddenly realized and hurriedly said, Big Brother Xiao, Little Ye took Miss Jin and fled towards the desert. There are two soldiers chasing after them. Go ahead and catch up! When Xiao Baoshan heard this, he couldnt care about others anymore. He asked the others to stay on the spot to clean up, and he immediately went toward Little Ye with Little ck. ...... Not far away, Mahal and Dati wanted to run away, but they were seen by the sharp-eyed Tarico. Tarico picked up the bow and shooted right at Mahals leg. Mahal fell to the ground with a scream and Tarico immediately went to catch him with Wang Wen and Wang Wu. After they were caught, they started to beg for mercy, saying that they were forced, pretending to be pitiful. No one believed their words. If Xiao Baoshan hadnt arrived in time, all the people from the tribe would have been killed. Tarico asked everyones opinion, How should we deal with these two people? Kill them! Kill their whole family! If he can bring a group of people today, he will bring another group of people next time. If we dont kill him, well always be on our nerves! Tarico didnt hesitate at all. He picked up a knife and killed the two people in an instant. Then he took some people to Mahals house to find Guri and killed her as well. ...... Ye Xiaoxians horse was slower and slower. She had been worrying about the tribe all the way. There were soldiers surrounding the tribe. What would happen if they couldnt catch Jin Xiaoyu and Little Xun? However, she couldnt bring Jin Xiaoyu back directly. For several times, she wanted to stop and hide Jin Xiaoyu in a patch of grass or on the hillside, but she was worried that they would be found out and killed. She wasnt good at riding, so she would always be slow whenever she came out. But she didnt dare to stop. Just like that, she passed the ming Mountains with Jin Xiaoyu and was ready to leave the desert. At this moment, the sound of hoof steps came from behind. Ye Xiaoxian was about to look back to see if the chasers had arrived, but the moment she turned her head, an arrow shed in front of her face. She was shocked. Thankfully, she tilted her head, or else the arrow would have hit her through the head. Only then did she realize she was scared. It was a group of soldiers chasing after them. These people killed without batting an eyelid. She had to take Jin Xiaoyu away and escape! However, her speed was still too slow after all. The leader and his soldier arrived in an instant. The leader rushed over and ordered, Hurry up and stop the horse, or Ill kill you right away! Ye Xiaoxian could only stop her horse. Coincidentally, Jin Xiaoyu woke up at this time. Jin Xiaoyu was ced on the horses back, tiltled. The road was bumpy, which made her stomach hurt, and after she woke up, she started to cough. What the...Where...Where is this? When she opened her eyes and realized that she was hung on the back of a horse like a sack while Little Ye was riding on a horse and that they were in the Gobi Desert, which was the only path to leave the desert, she was totally confused. Where is that bastard? The leader asked them. Jin Xiaoyu came down from the horse and turned to see the two soldiers. The soldiers were pointing at her with knifes. Little bastard? Dont act like a fool. I mean the grandson of the Prime Minister, where did you hide him? the soldier asked. At the same time, the soldier ced the knife on Ye Xiaoxians neck. Jin Xiaoyu knew Kung Fu, so she could have dealt with it. However, when she saw that Little Ye was also threatened by the knife, she was not sure if she could save her as well. She ignored the two soldiers and asked Little Ye, Why are we here? Tarico asked me to bring you out. Ah, that idiot! Jin Xiaoyu stomped her feet and said, This will implicate the tribes people. The leader sneered, Its toote. The people of your entire tribe have been killed already. As soon as he said this, Jin Xiaoyu and Ye Xiaoxian widened their eyes. All killed? Was it true? Seeing Jin Xiaoyu being uncooperative, the leader immediately put the knife on her neck. Tell me, where is that bastard? Otherwise, I will kill you too. Jin Xiaoyu pointed in a random direction. There. Go and chase in that direction. Looks like you wont surrender until you see the hell. Soldier, you kill that woman. Lets see if she will tell or not! The leader could tell that Jin Xiaoyu was lying, so he let his man kill Ye Xiaoxian. Wait! Jin Xiaoyu couldnt let them kill Little Ye. Hurry up and tell me! Whats there to say? Ill take you guys to him. As long as you dont kill her! The leader thought for a moment and said, Okay, then go! Jin Xiaoyu thought in her heart, where should she take them? How could she take Little Ye to escape? At this moment, there was the sound of hoovesing from behind. Upon closer inspection, it was another soldier. The soldier was struck by an arrow and was about to die. What happened? The leader quickly dragged him to ask while the soldier was still alive. The soldier spat out a mouthful of blood before saying, Our people... were almost all killed, we are not...able to fight him, escape...escape quickly. Who is it? Who has the courage to do so? But befoer the soldier could say anything, his pupils suddenly widened and he spat out another mouthful of blood and died. The leader was so angry that he suddenly waved his knife again, wanting to cut at Jin Xiaoyu, but on second thought, he still had to leave Jin Xiaoyu to lead the way. Therefore, he pointed the knife at Ye Xiaoxian. If he didnt kill someone today, there was no way to vent his anger. Jin Xiaoyu seeing the situation getting worse, she immediately said, You cant kill her! How could he not kill her? Jin Xiaoyu shouted, Shes Xiao Baoshans wife. You know Xiao Baoshan, the great general. If you kill her, Xiao Baoshan will never let you go. The leaders knife almost hit Ye Xiaoxians neck, but when he heard Jin Xiaoyus words, he suddenly stopped. Xiao Baoshan? Didnt he die? The leader asked. Jin Xiaoyu said, He didnt die. He was just injured. But now has almost healed his wounds and his martial art skills are still strong. He can kill you at anytime! After Jin Xiaoyu finished speaking, the soldier suddenlyid on the ground and stood up again. Leader, there seems to be someone behind us. The leader pondered for a moment before saying, Take the two of them with you. Well talk about it when we get out first! Jin Xiaoyu and Ye Xiaoxian were knocked out, then they were put on the horses back like sacks. The leader and his man quickly fled. ...... When Xiao Baoshan and Little ck caught up, they only saw the bodies of a soldier on the ground and a horse. The soldier was shot by Xiao Baoshans arrows. He must have fled here in chaos to report. Xiao Baoshan took a closer look at the ground and suddenly found an emerald hairpin. It was Little Yes! Little Ye must have been taken away by them. This whole area was the Gobi Desert and his vision was limited. He had to split up with Little ck. But after chasing for a long time, he still couldnt see Little Ye and the others. On the other hand, Little ck found two shadows in the direction of the desert when it was already dark. He quickly chased after them. The two shadows quickly fled into the desert. Little ck chased after them again. When he arrived, he found that it was two locals; the older one was a man, and the younger one was a boy. Please, dont kill us, we dont know anything! Mcginon was afraid of death and begged for mercy as soon as he was caught up. On the other hand, the little boy looked like he was not afraid of death. He looked at Little ck with his big eyes wide open. Who are you? Little ck asked. The little boy said, A brave man never changes his name. I am the person you want to capture, the grandson of the former Prime Minister, Little Xun. If you want to kill me, just do so. It has nothing to do with this brother next to me! Little ck listened and suddenly felt awkard. He asked, Do you know Xiao Baoshan? Im his friend, I wont kill you. Follow me back. All those bad guys have been killed by General Xiao. Of course, Mcginon and Little Xun knew Xiao Baoshan. They heard that he was Baoshans friend, so they followed Little ck out of the desert. Outside, they met Xiao Baoshan again. General Xiao, have you found yourdy? Little ck asked. Xiao Baoshan shook his head and sighed, looking very disappointed. Little ck didnt know what to say. Yourdy is blessed with great fortune. I believe she will be fine. Its dark now, why dont we go back first? Xiao Baoshan refused. He only let Little ck send Mcginon and Little Xun home first. The dead soldier also had a horse that could carry Mcginon and Little Xun. Xiao Baoshan continued to search nearby. ...... At the tribe. The moon had already risen and the evening breeze was very strong, blowing away the bloody smell of the day. The bodies of the soldiers had been taken away. People in the tribe dug a huge hole not far away and the bodies were all buried below. The tribe decided to move the next day to a ce closer to the base camp. After all, the terrain here was not so ideal. Back then, Mahal had specially selected thisnd for them. It was far away from the water source and it was not very t. It would be better to move near to the main camp. Chapter 306 - Being Kidnapped

306. Being Kidnapped

Trantor: ͷ In the tribe, men were responsible for handling the bodies while women were responsible for preparing food for them. After being so frightened during the day, they didnt have much appetite, so they simply made some pancakes with pickles. When Li Hongmei was about to eat, she was still very worried and kept on paying attention to the outside from time to time. Why isnt Little Ye back yet? Li Hongmei asked. She knew that Little Ye was with Jin Xiaoyu but both of them were gone. Would they be caught by the two soldiers. Would they be in danger? Seeing that Li Hongmei was worried, Wang Mudan advised her not to worry too much. After all, Baoshan had chased after them. Later, there was finally the sound of hoof stepsing from outside. Li Hongmei ran out in a hurry, only to see Little ck bringing back the Mcginon family and Little Xun. Wheres Baoshan? Why hasnt hee back yet? Li Hongmei and the rest asked. Little ck told them the truth. When she heard that Xiao Baoshan was still looking for Little Ye, Li Hongmei was even more worried and started to cry anxiously. What sin have we done that all of a sudden such a big disaster came, God! The crowd helped her to calm down. Seeing everyone like this, Little ck realized that the tribe had obviously became chaotic. Many things became a mess, so he could not help but hide behind Tarico. He felt that these things were all because of him. At first, Grandfather said that this was a game, but it was actually not. This was obviously a massacre, and many people used their lives to protect him. Tarico did not go home this afternoon; he was at the tribe to help the others. It had always been a cleannd in the tribe. Now that there were so many bodies, he was sad and felt sorry for the Gods in Tianshan Mountains. But seeing Little ck at a loss now, Tarico felt that he had to put away his sadness. He held Little cks hand and said to him, Little ck, you cant me these things on yourself. If you want to me someone, me those bad guys. They wont even let go of a child. What kind of motive did they have?! Little ck lowered his head and kept silent. ...... In the middle of the night, everyone fell silent and was ready to go to bed. At this moment, the sound of hoof steps rang again. It was Xiao Baoshan. Everyone was like a frightened bird. They would get up immediately if they heard anything. When they saw that Xiao Baoshan was the only one who came back, everyones mood became gloomy again. Wheres Little Ye? Cant you find Little Ye? Li Hongmei asked in a hoarse voice. Xiao Baoshan shook his head and got down from the horse. Li Hongmei cried again and so did everyone else. Little Ye had been with them for so long, and everyone had been together like a family. Now that she had suddenly disappeared, everyone felt like something bad must have happened. She...was she caught or killed? Li Hongmei asked in a hurry. Xiao Baoshan calmed down his huge sorrow and said calmly, Im not sure. I need to investigate again. I will leave the tribe tomorrow. I wonte back until I find her. The crowd couldnt help but be immersed in grief. ...... Xiao Baoshan was leaving the next morning. He left behind more than ten elites to guard the tribe. Tarico originally wanted to go find Jin Xiaoyu but he couldnt let go of Little Xun. Ever since yesterday, Little Xun had been silent, not speaking a single word, and his appetite was bad. Tarico was worried that Little Xun was too depressed, so he stayed with him all day. If Jin Xiaoyu suddenly came back and saw that Little Xun was not good, she would definitely me Tarico. Plus, Tarico was the tribal leader. After yesterdays incident, he had to stay behind and arrange for them to move the tribe to another ce. Otherwise, when everyone thought about how many bodies were buried on the hillside, they wouldnt live in peace. He still wanted to calm down the locals. Mahals family had been killed, so he had to tell the locals about his crimes. In short, he couldnt leave for the moment. When Xiao Baoshan left, Li Hongmei prepared a lot of dry food for him to eat on the road. Baoshan, you must find Little Ye. If you find her... Li Hongmei did not dare to say anything harsh, so she could only say, You have to know, Ive always treated her as my daughter. Ive raised her for so many years and watched her grow up. Xiao Baoshan said, Dont worry, I wonte back if I cant find her. No, you have toe back even if you cant find her. You cant let Mother lose her and you again, Li Hongmei wiped her tears. Xiao Baoshan said, I wont be in trouble. If I go far away, Ill get someone bring back the news. You have to bring back the news. Otherwise... s, otherwise I will be worried. ... After bidding everyone farewell, Xiao Baoshan and Little ck left. They followed the road yesterday. There were many stone paths on the side of the stall, so there were no traces of hoof steps and they could only specte on the path where Jin Xiaoyu and Little Ye might have been taken to. Those men were sent by the State Preceptor. Then, if they didnt return to the tribe, where would they go? The capital city? What was their purpose in escorting Jin Xiaoyu and Little Ye to the capital? Perhaps the purpose of kidnapping them was to protect themselves. As long as the two of them were in hand, the people chasing after them would not dare to kill them. Xiao Baoshan decided to look in the direction of the capital. It was a long way from here to the capital city. They would either travel through the desert or travel from one county to another from Daan county. It was also possible that they would walk through the official road, which was very nearby, but only those who had the identity of imperial court could do so. The two of them were from Zhongyuan Area and they definitely didnt have the courage to cross the desert. They could only go to Daan county first and then go towards the official road. So Xiao Baoshan led Little ck to Daan county. ...... By the time they reached Daan county, it was already dark. By this time, the city gates should be closed. However, when Xiao Baoshan and the others arrived, the city gates were open. A person guarding the city saw Xiao Baoshan and Little ck and unexpectedly came over to ask, Sir, are you Xiao Baoshan, General Xiao? Why do you know me? Xiao Baoshan asked coldly. The guard took out a letter to Xiao Baoshan, County magistrate told me to wait for you here. He has a letter for you. Xiao Baoshan took the letter and quickly opened it. There was only a line of words: If you want to see your wife,e to the State Preceptor residence in the capital. With the name signed below: Wan Shijie. Little Ye and the rest were indeed taken to the capital. Xiao Baoshans brow was slightly rxed. Although they couldnt see each other for the moment, at least they were still alive. Xiao Baoshan then said to Little ck, Our route is right, lets chase to the capital now. ...... At a ry station in the official road. Jin Xiaoyu and Ye Xiaoxian were tied up by chains. They could move and eat, but it was not easy to escape. Furthermore, Little Ye did not know martial arts. Even though Jin Xiaoyus martial art skills were very good, she could not save Little Ye while being tied up. Although Wan Shijie and his subordinate hated them, they did not curse and abuse them. They only tied them up and gave them food and necessities. That night, when themander came in to send food, Jin Xiaoyu couldnt help but ask, Why are you taking us to the capital? To threaten Xiao Baoshan? Isnt he a general? The crime of treason back then had been removed. What else could he do for you? Wan Shijie despised women, so he didnt bother to answer. He put the food down on the table and said, Just eat. Dont ask so much. Rest early after eating and we have to continue on our journey early tomorrow morning. Wan Shijie realized yesterday that the person who killed them all should be Xiao Baoshan. Apart from Xiao Baoshan, no one had such power. Although Wan Shijie was sorry that so many of his people were killed at once, those killed people were not his familiar colleagues or his rtives. They just worked on behalf of the imperial court and their job was to fight and kill, so they should have long expected that they would die someday. However, Xiao Baoshans role wasparable to a thousand of such soldiers. Wan Shijie worked for the State Preceptor. He knew the State Preceptors way of doing things and knew that Xiao Baoshan should be useful to him. If he could lure Xiao Baoshan over and let Xiao Baoshan work for the State Preceptor, he might not be used by the State Preceptor of the failure this time. ...... After Wan Shijie went out, Jin Xiaoyu and Ye Xiaoxian started eating. Because the chains were tied to their hands and feet, they would make a loud noise whenever they moved. Jin Xiaoyu felt very annoyed. She hated being restrained, and this feeling was not good at all. Ye Xiaoxian was a little calmer than Jin Xiaoyu. She picked up her chopsticks and took another bite of her meal. She thenmented on the dish, The rice is too dry. If they added a little more water it would taste better. This dish should havee from a big pot. After being fried for a long time, the leafe will turn yellow and the taste will be greatly reduced. Fortunately, there is meat in it and its smell can slightly offset the vegetables unfresh taste. Jin Xiaoyu asked, You still have the mood to eat now? Or what? Should I stay hungry? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Jin Xiaoyu asked repeatedly, Arent you worried about the tribe? Arent you worried about Bao... Xiao Baoshan would chase after us and get in danger? Arent you worried that State Preceptor would use Baoshan to do something that he doesnt want to do? Ye Xiaoxian asked as she ate, Is it useful to worry? What else can we do? Are you not worried even if its useless? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Little Ye said, Although I dont know the schemes and intrigues of the imperial court and I dont know what thismander wants to do, I am sure that the tribe is safe now because their people have been killed by Baoshan. Now its the time they should be worried about us, right? It makes sense, go ahead, Jin Xiaoyu said. The more they are worried about us, the more we have to eat and sleep well. We shouldnt let them worry. If one day we really get saved and go back like two skinny people, wouldnt they be more worried about us? They will think that we had nothing to eat, were abused, and would feel guilty for us. This is not what we want to see. Jin Xiaoyu said, There seems to be a point. Little Ye added, And the State Preceptor you mentioned. If he wants to use Baoshan, this is not something we can stop. Ive thought that if he asks Baoshan to do something outrageous, I wont allow it. I might... What? Jin Xiaoyu asked. Chapter 307 - The State Preceptors Residence

307. The State Preceptors Residence

Trantor: Bryan I wonder what the easiest way to die is. If I m my head against a wall, itll probably be very painful, and therell be a lot of blood. Maybe even my brain will spurt out. If I hang myself, my tongue will be hanging down on my chin, which sounds horrible. Drowning myself in a river should be better, but my corpse will swell if soak in water for too long. As for slitting my throat, I dont have the guts to do that... Ye Xiaoxian recalled those faithful wives shed seen in TV dramas, who would rather die than put their husbands in danger. It struck her that she could take her cue from them. Having lived for two incarnations, experienced different lives, and had won Xiao Baoshans affections, she believed she could die a regretless death. Jin Xiaoyu, amused by Little Ye, could barely keep fromughing. It surprises me youve thought so much about that. Since youre so afraid of death, why not stay alive? My death is certain, but before death, I should eat well and sleep well, because at least Ive earned it, havent I? Jin Xiaoyu found herself unable to contradict her. She sighed before saying, s, now I can see why so many people like you. It seems nothing can ever get you down. Although you have no martial art skills and are unable to protect others, I can never be angry with you when youre around. Little Ye smiled again. Jin Xiaoyu then picked up her chopsticks and said, Well, Ill stop being picky and eat whatever it is they offer me. Like you said, only by filling my belly will I have a good mood. Ive earned it. ...... After they passed the courier station, Ye Xiaoxian and Jin Xiaoyu were put into a carriage bound for the capital city. Most of the areas that the national road went through were mountainous, but the view was not very enjoyable. Still, Ye Xiaoxian was enoying it with obvious relish, asionally lifting the carriage curtain to look at the trees and flowers outside. After a bumpy ride of about half a month, they finally reached the capital city. Beihui City was the most prosperous ce Little Ye had seen since her transmigration, but it turned out that the capital city was several times more prosperous than Beihui City. Before they got to the city gates, they caught sight of a scene of hustle and bustle. There were vendors selling all kinds of stuff at the gateway, and cries of hawkers wereing from all directions. The local ent was a little different from that of the two of them, but they could understand them just fine. After entering the city, the carriage went through another busy street where the traffic was quite heavy. Ye Xiaoxian lifted the curtain to look at the pedestrains, who looked back at her. Jin Xiaoyu reminded Little Ye, Hey, I suggest you stop poking your head out. Ladies tend to stay indoors here, and even if when they have to go out, they always avoid being seen by others whenever they could, and yet youre doing quite the opposite. Little Ye asked Jin Xiaoyu, Am I ady? Well, about that... Jin Xiaoyu was unable to answer that question. Im just a countrywoman. Whats wrong with letting them see me? Ye Xiaoxian added, I should see all these right now, because Ill be dead soon. But you dont look like youll die soon. You seem to be starting a new life, Jin Xiaoyu chuckled with mixed amusement and annoyance. Little Ye also smiled, and then she began to ask questions, Whats that thing hes selling there? And whats that? And that? Jin Xiaoyu could answer some of her questions, but not all of them. When Jin Xiaoyu couldnt answer her question, Ye Xiaoxian would said to her, You used to be so rich and own arge inn, but you willingly let yourself cooped up in that desert when you could go out to see the world. I... Annoyed, Jin Xiaoyu giggled again, These things hold no appeal to me. How do you know they hold no appeal to you when you dont even know what they are? Maybe youll take a liking to them after tasting them and using them, who knows? Jin Xiaoyu rolled her eyes at Little Ye, I cant stand you anymore. I would have mistaken you for a tourist were it not for the chains. Well, when my death is imminent, I find that therere so many things in the capital. I need to see them. Jin Xiaoyu added, Well, suit yourself. Ill keep my mouth shut. But Little Ye pointed to a stall and asked, Whats that guy selling there? Instead of answering the question, Jin Xiaoyu asked, Little Ye, I suspect that after you stay in the capital for a while and get used to the prosperity here, you will lose interest in your husband. Will you transfer your affections to someone else? It depends! Little Ye said. Jin Xiaoyu rolled her eyes again and pretended to sleep, ignoring her. Wan Shijie and his subordinate, who were driving the carriage, had been listening to the chatter of the two women all along. These two women did not sound like captives at all. Any other woman would have wept, but these two had been talking andughing all the way here. They were so carefree that Wan Shijie suspected that Ye Xiaoxian was not Xiao Baoshans wife at all. But when he listened carefully, he heard them mention Xiao Baoshan from time to time, so he was sure he got the right person. ...... The carriage went through another couple of streets. The road was getting increasingly broader, but the pedestrains were getting fewer. There were hardly anymoners in sight. All they could see was pnquins and carriages. The houses were gettingrger too, with household guards and stone lions at the front gates, which suggested that this was the area where the court officials dwelled. Ye Xiaoxian was still watching in fascination. It struck her that this ce was similiar to the ancient towns she had traveled to in herst incarnation, but since she was now in ancient times, this city seemed more solemn than those ancient towns. Before long, the carriage drove into the State Preceptors residence. They entered through the back door. After gaining entry, the carriage took a couple of turns and then Wan Shijie instructed them to get out of the carriage. Little Ye got out of the carriage and saw that around them were some rear yards, in which servants were bustling around. There were so many servants here. Those sweeping the floor alone numbered over a dozen, and they were only responsible for cleaning this yard alone. The State Preceptor was so extravagant. In the normal course of events, only corrupt officials lived like this. Wan Shijie went inside to report. Shortly afterward, the two of them were brought to the ante-room. The closer to the ante-room, the more pavilions they could see, and the more precious the nts became, the more premium the servants liveries were. The further Ye Xiaoxian walked down the path, the more amazed she was. Given the luxury of this residence, the owner was definitely a corrupt official. However, she yearned for this ce. Had she had a mansion like this and so many servants serving her, she would wake up fromughing in her dream. It was a pity that her husband was no longer a general, otherwise the court might assign a residence like this to him, along with some servants, and the mansion would be at least half the size of this one. Thinking about this, Ye Xiaoxian kept walking forward and soon reached the ante-room. Mrs. Xiao, pleasee in! Surprisingly, after they got here, Wan Shijie began to address her as Mrs. Xiao, and his attitude was pretty respectful. Ye Xiaoxian thought to herself, What a hypocrite. He was cold to us throughout the journey, but now hes pretending to be respectful. In the middle of the ante-room sat an old man, whose face was rudy, and who was quite robust. Actually he did not constitute an old man. He was just a man who had passed his prime. At the sight of him, Ye Xiaoxian could not help but recall a famous character of a court official in a costume drama she had once watched. After entering, Wan Shijie dropped to his knees and said, Your Lordship, Ive brought Mrs. Xiao and her friend here. This is Mrs. Xiao, and the other one is the proprietress of the inn. She was the one who rescued the grandson of the former Prime Minister. Oh, is that so? The State Preceptor looked at Ye Xiaoxian first. Ye Xiaoxian was not afraid of him. Seeing that he was sizing her up, she looked back at him appraisingly without any fear in her eyes. Jin Xiaoyu was even bolder. She rolled her eyes when State Preceptor red at her. Surprisingly, the State Preceptorughed, Ha ha, do you have any misunderstanding against me? Why are you rolling eyes at me at our first meeting? Did my subordinate offend you? Then he said to Wan Shijie, Shijie, how could you put women in chains? Thats for animals. Wan Shijie hurriedly said, My apologies, Your Lordship. Ill untie them right now. This was the State Preceptors residence. There were people everywhere and this whole ce was heavily guarded. Even if there were no chains, the two of them would not be able to escape. Having been rid of the chains, Ye Xiaoxian felt much more rxed. Youre Mrs. Xiao, right? Take it easy. My subordinate brought you here not to make things difficult for you. I just invited you here to have a talk. By the way, have you been to this city before? Ye Xiaoxian said, Never. Well, I expect more from General Xiao. You two have been married for so long, but he hasnt even brought you to the capital city to see what its like. Instead, he had you flee to Baoning City like a refugee. You didnt deserve any of that. Why do you think men work so hard to pursue their careers? Is it not to give their wives and children a better life? But what did he do? At first he concealed his true identity, and then faked his death, which caused you to suffer a lot. But its okay now. Since youre in the capital city, you should stay in my residence for some time. When General Xiaoes, youll be able to see him. Ye Xiaoxian smiled faintly, Thank you, Your Lordship. State Preceptor was stunned. He had not bargained on Ye Xiaoxian being so poised, neither angry nor frightened. He said, Youre young and of humble birth, but I could tell that youre no less elegant than a highborndy. No wonder General Xiao cares so much about you. State Preceptor shifted his gaze to Jin Xiaoyu and asked, I heard that you saved the grandson of the former Prime Minister? Why did you flee to Baoning City after that? You even escaped to a tribe. Did someone tell you to go there? Jin Xiaoyu wasnt stupid. She naturally knew that the Sixth King and the Seventh King were both in the capital city. She said, No one told me anything. I found that ce by chance and met Little Ye. They kindly took us in. Oh? Did Li Chengru promise you anything? the State Preceptors then asked. Jin Xiaoyu yed dumb. Li Chengru? You mean the Seventh King? I remember when he was in our tribe during the festival. I wanted to strike up a rtionship with him, but he couldnt be bothered to even talk to me. You cant expect a prince to develop feelings for a woman living in a tribe, can you? The State Preceptor stroked his beard, his face thoughtful. Though he was skeptical, it seemed that questioning this was pointless now. Currently, Xiao Baoshan was the one he wanted to rope in the most. Once he got Xiao Baoshan, he would have nothing to fear from Yan Ziyan. The State Preceptor then ordered, These twodies have traveled a long way and must be tired. Make sure theyre settled in the best wing-rooms and have everything they need. Nobody should trifle with them. Not long after, a middle-aged maidservant arrived and took them out of the ante-room. A winding path led them to a secluded courtyard house, which was very quiet, and the rooms had been tidied up. It should be a veryfortable ce to live. Chapter 308 - How to Eat an Abalone

308. How to Eat an Abalone

Trantor: ͷ After they entered the courtyard, about ten maids came in as well. Some of the maids came to serve tea, some came to give them hot water for taking shower, and some came to give them clothes. They had not changed their clothes for the past ten days nor had they taken a shower. The weather in the capital city was hot, so when they arrived here, they felt that their bodies were sticky and ufortable, and desperately needed to take a hot bath. Ye Xiaoxian and Jin Xiaoyu were not prim at all. Along the way, Ye Xiaoxian repeatedly emphasized to live at the moment, to eat whenever there was food, to sleep when she had to, and to enjoy herself whenever she could. The two took a shower separately, changed into the clothes sent by the maid, and then rearranged their hair under the maids service. In front of the maid, Ye Xiaoxian started to discuss with Jin Xiaoyu, This is the mostfortable time for me in my life. There is a yard, a maid, and even someone tob my hair. This dress is also made of premium material. Jin Xiaoyu said, I think you would really forgot your identity if you stay any longer. How about you leave Baoshan behind then find a man in the capital city who would offer you a huge house and have maids to serve you? Well, as the case may be, if Im really used to such a luxurious life, I really dont want to go back to the tribe. I could only live in the yurt in the tribe. The sun was strong during the day, and the night was cold. If I stay for a long time, my skin will be rough. Jin Xiaoyu said angrily, Little Ye, do you really think so? Just because of these things, you dont want to be with Baoshan anymore? At this time, the maid was serving Little Ye with powder foundation. Little Ye did not say anything and only closed her eyes and mouth. After a long time, they were finally done packing up. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt help but pick up the mirror and look at herself. She continued, I havent been dressed for a long time. I feel like the woman I was before is now back. Then she turned to look at Little Ye. Little Ye also turned around and Jin Xiaoyu was suddenly stunned. This person... is Little Ye? So she could look so good! Little Ye was usually dressed in a tribes outfit without makeup. However, now that she had changed into the silk clothes of a woman in Zhongyuan Area, her hair wasbed again and she wore powder foundation. Now she looked like a fresh water lily, and her entire body was charming,pletely different from the vige woman she usually was. Why are you staring at me? Little Ye asked. You... look at the mirror yourself. Little Ye looked at the mirror. The mirrors of this era were made of bronze, so the view was not clear. She could only see a rough outline of herself. Little Ye couldnt see her in the mirror neither. Anyway, as long as Jin Xiaoyu thought she looked good, she must be looking good. No matter in which generation, people rely on their makeup, especially the older they are, the more they need to wear well, and only when they are well-dressed will they have a good temperament. Little Ye looked at herself for a while then turned to Jin Xiaoyu. Jin Xiaoyu used to dress up when she was managing Longmen Inn. At that time, she looked gorgeous. Later, she went to the tribe and wore the most ordinary clothes, which made her less outstanding but moremon. Now that Jin Xiaoyu was dressed well, Little Ye seemed to see Jin Xiaoyu as if it were the first time they met in Longmen Inn. You are also very beautiful, Little Ye said sincerely. Jin Xiaoyu said, Whats the use of being beautiful? No one looks at me. Little Ye smiled. Just embrace yourself ...... After they were dressed up, the housekeeper arranged for the maids to leave, but soon another batch of maids came. They were here to deliver food. Even though there were only two people eating, the maids sent seven or eight dishes that filled the small table. These were all expensive ingredients, abalone, edible birds nest, ginseng stewed chicken, and even the simple shrimp fried leeks was made with the best shrimps. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help but sigh again: how luxurious this was. It was the first time she had had such a luxurious life ever since she transmigrated. Even though her freedom was limited at this residence, if she was treated like this every day, she wouldnt mind being imprisoned for a few more days. Little Ye was about to eat when she picked up her chopsticks but suddenly felt inconvenient. This outfit was gorgeous, but it had very wide sleeves. It looked rude to roll them up. But if she didnt roll them up, she could only eat very carefully. Even she was drinking water, she could only use the other hand to gently block the lower end of the sleeves, or she would be stained with the soup in the dish. It was said that the ancient greatdies were elegant. But who wouldnt be elegant if she wore this? Little Ye cherished the clothes on her. She was worried that there would be no extra clothes to change if she got them dirty, so she could only eat their food very slowly. They were all precious ingredients, so she had to eat more slowly. As she ate, she also discussed which dish was good, which was stewed well, and which was slightly inferior. The chefs in the State Preceptors residence must be the best, but this was ancient time after all. Although the chefs were good at cooking expensive ingredients, there was not much to eat. Little Ye had a recipe for ancient food in the past, the so-called secret recipe from the court. She had made a few dishes ording to the recipe in it, but the result was just normal. It was not as delicious as the food in the future. She cherished these ingredients and wanted the chefs to improve the recipe, so she decided to get some paper and an ink brush. Every time she tasted a dish, she would write some suggestions and opinions, and then let the maid hand them to the kitchen. At first, the maid looked down on the two women. She thought they were just youngdies from the countryside. They should thank God for being able to eat these things. Now that they even gavements? Did they know who the chef is? In the past, he had served the previous emperor. But the emperor now had a different taste from the previous one, which was why this chef came to the State Preceptors residence to serve him instead. However, the State Preceptor had already told her that she had to serve these twodies well. If they had any requests, she could only follow their order. After Little Ye finished writing, she asked someone to send her opinion to the chef. The head chef in the residence was called Zhang Deshui. He was born in a culinary family and studied cooking skills since he was young. He was a famous chef in Great Qi Dynasty. He had served the previous emperor and was praised for his excellent cooking skills. He had worked for the imperial court for twenty years. After the new emperor Li Chengkun ascended the throne, he was rewarded by Li Chengkun to State Preceptor. State Preceptor also praised him for his good cooking skills and only ate his food. Today, he received an order to cook for the two new women and had to cook the same food that State Preceptor usually ate. He was reluctant to do so. He believed those countryside women didnt know how to admire cooking. If he let them eat his food, it would be a waste of the ingredients. It would be good enough that they could distinguish between beef andmb. However, not long after the meal was finished, a maid came over to deliver a message. She said that after Mrs. Xiao tasted his meal and she felt that it was not right and wrote some opinions to help him improve. Zhang Deshui was so angry that he almost tore the paper apart. What do these women know? They could only cook small dishes at home and stew some soup. Im afraid they havent even seen the ingredients I used! However, Zhang Deshui eventually didnt tear the paper apart. The main reason was that he found the handwritings on it were too ugly. The fact that a grand generals wife could have a handwriting like this was rare, one could tell that she had no education. The same as him. Zhang Deshui was a cook. His entire life was spent on cooking, and he had also never practiced his handwriting properly. The words he wrote were also in a mess, not better than Little Ye. Sometimes he couldnt even hold a pen. What was this called? Two peas in one odd pod? When Zhang Deshui saw these words, he felt so released that finally someone had an even uglier handwriting than he did. He took a closer look. It was better that he only nced at it, as he was shocked after he read it carefully... Not only did the Madam General know all the ingredients, she also knew what procedures these ingredients had gone through, such as marinating, soaking, and boiling. She listed her suggestions on the paper one by one, such as: The best way to keep the abalone fresh is...What kind of seasoning should abalone be with... Zhang Deshui was so annoyed that he was not convinced. The Madam General might just be a bit more knowledgeable and know how to cook, but her advice might not be the best. His culinary skills were passed down by his ancestors, different from those chefs outside. Just as he was about to throw the paper away, the suggestion seemed to be magical and deeply engraved in his mind. A cooks nature is to try every new cooking method, and then constantly improve until it reaches the best taste. The suggestions of the Madam General might work? ...... Zhang Deshui didnt care about it so much. Anyway, there were enough ingredients in the residence, so he would try. He tried the abalone. The abalone he originally made was steamed with some minced garlic. However, when Little Ye suggested that when cooking abalone, first use the raw oyster to make a sauce, that is, oyster sauce. Little Ye also provided a way to make the oyster sauce. Zhang Deshui started thinking, Oyster sauce? What the heck?! But seeing that there was a method to make it, and it was so detailed, he decided to have a try. It turned out that oyster was actually the overcooked juice produced by oysters when boiling them. There were a lot of ingredients in the residence, including fresh oysters. The method of making oyster sauce was notplicated. It only took Zhang Deshui one afternoon. At night, his oyster sauce was finally made. He continued to make minced garlic, drenched it in hot oil, added salt, and steamed with the abalone for a while. After it was cooked, he added a drizzle of oyster sauce. He originally wanted to try the taste, but someone called him just at this time and the abalone was still hot, so he left the kitchen without eating. Coincidentally, a subordinate of the State Preceptor came. The subordinate came to the kitchen to get snacks because State Preceptor had practiced martial arts for a while this afternoon and was hungry. After taking the desserts, he saw that there was a well-cooked abalone on the table. It looked like it was just ready, so he took it away. Zhang Deshui came back and saw that the abalone was gone. He hurriedly asked the servant, Who was here just now? The servant said, The chief steward was here. He said he was here to get the snacks for State Preceptor as he was hungry. What about the abalone? The servant looked around and said in a daze, I dont know. It was still here just now. Zhang Deshui was so anxious that he pped his thigh, Damn it! The abalone was just finished and I didnt had time to taste it yet. What if it isnt delicious? What if State Preceptor thinks were teasing him? The servant was very nervous. Then, lets go and chase after it. How could Zhang Deshui care so much? He led the servant and ran out. Chapter 309 - Why Are You Here?

309. Why Are You Here?

Trantor: ChowvanLee State Preceptor finished practising fighting technique and took another shower. When he came out, he saw two tes of food on the table. One was desserts, the other abalones. The desserts were the osmanthus-voured rice cakes he liked as always, while the abalones were cooked in a different method. This dish looked great, making ones mouth watering. He happened to be hungry, so he ate a piece of rice cake first, and then put a piece of abalone into his mouth. The moment the abalone was in his mouth, his eyes suddenly widened. ... Outside, Zhang Deshui and a servant came running to him, but were stopped by the chief steward. He asked, Why are you here? Zhang Deshui, out of breath, was so anxious, Sir, there was a te of abalone on the stove table, did you take it? Right, I took it. Whats wrong? The chief steward asked. Has State Preceptor eaten it? State Preceptor is bathing. Im not sure whether he has eaten it or not. Hurry up and make it clear. Is there any problem with that te of abalone? The chief steward asked. Zhang Deshui panted heavily, That abalone is... its a new dish that I just developed. I didnt try it, and I got that recipe of making the abalone from Madam Xiao. Who knows what shes trying to do? What if theres something wrong with that recipe? The chief steward heard this and patted his own head. You! Are you trying to kill me? Why didnt you say it earlier? I meant to tell you, but you had already taken the abalone away. The chief steward was afraid that it was toote. He galloped towards State Preceptors room, managing to take the abalone away before State Preceptor ate it. But when the chief steward pushed the door open, he saw State Preceptor was eating something. The te of abalone in front of him was empty and there was only one piece of osmanthus-voured rice cake left. Lord... Lord State Preceptor. The chief steward called nervously. Whats wrong? You look in a hurry. Is anything going wrong in this house? The chief steward hurriedly asked, No, Lord State Preceptor, its the abalone dish. You ate it? How does it taste? Are you feeling ufortable now? Its very good! State Preceptor said excitedly, I was just about to tell you. I figured that such a delicious abalone dish must be newly developed by Zhang Deshui. It is really fresh and tender. Tell Zhang Deshui to keep cooking the abalone in this way. The chief steward felt relieved. State Preceptor was a thoughtful man, so he immediately noticed that the chief steward was hiding something from him. He added, You have something to get off your chest? Tell me! The manager didnt dare to hide it any more. He said, Well, Zhang Deshui ran over just now and told me that this abalone was newly-developed indeed. But he made it ording to the recipe from Madam Xiao. Before he could try, I brought it here. He is worried that this abalone doesnt taste good and make State Preceptor unhappy, so he is kneeling outside. Oh? State Preceptor was surprised, Madam Xiao gave him the recipe? Yes. He told me that Madam Xiao gave him a few recipes but he had just tried the abalone one. State Preceptor couldnt help but smile, I didnt expect that Madam Xiao knows how to cook. If you think the abalone tastes good, then Madam Xiao is doing good at cooking. State Preceptor added, I do like the taste of this abalone. Since there are recipes for other dishes, then let Zhang Deshui make a few more dishes. If they taste good, you bring them over. I will have a try. I happened to have enough of the dishes he has made before. Yes! ... Outside, Zhang Deshui was still waiting anxiously. When he saw the chief stewarde out, he asked immediately, How is it? Did Lord State Preceptor eat that abalone? The chief steward deliberately kept him in suspense and said seriously, What do you think? Zhang Deshui felt like the world was going to end. Oh, no! Lord State Preceptor must have eaten it, or else you would bring the food out. My half-lifetime career as a chef will be cut off because of that woman... The chief steward said disdainfully, Look at you being so useless. A dish scares you like this. To tell you the truth, State Preceptor has already eaten the dish and thinks it very good... Really? Before the chief steward could finish, Zhang Deshui grinned excitedly. It seemed that both his life and his position as the chef had been saved. The chief steward said, I havent finished yet. Lord State Preceptor also said that since Madam Xiao gave you these recipes, you shall make more dishes ording to them. He happened to have enough of your old dishes, and its good to change the recipes. At this point, Zhang Deshui didnt know whether he should be happy or in self-pity. But since he escaped this time, he had to go back to the kitchen and carefully studied the recipes Ye Xiaoxian gave him, managing to make all the dishes. ... Xiao Baoshan made it through without being stopped all the way. No matter which city they arrived at, guards always let them pass. As such, he and Little ck reached the capital very smoothly. When they reached the gate of the capital, Xiao Baoshan and Little ck lowered the speed of their horses and slowly went into the capital. If he didnt guess wrong, someone was waiting for him at the entrance of the city gate. As expected, as soon as they arrived at the capital, they saw Wan Shijie who was here to pick them up. General Xiao, I have been looking forward to meeting you for a long time. When I was in Tianshan tribe, I didnt know that you were General Xiao Baoshan, the Ares of a great reputation. I was so blind not to recognize you. Xiao Baoshan said coldly, You are that salesman? Its my honor to be remembered by General Xiao. Wan Shijie said with a smile on his face. Xiao Baoshan didnt want to waste time with him. He asked, You caught my wife? General Xiao, you cant speak in this way. How can you say that I caught your wife? Im just amandant. How could I trap Madam Xiao here? Madam Xiao is at the State Preceptors house, and Lord State Preceptor treats her with delicious food and drinks. If you dont believe me,e with me and youll know. Little ck hinted with his eyes to stop Xiao Baoshan, but Xiao Baoshan pretended not to see it and said, Okay, Ill go with you! Wan Shijie looked happy, General Xiao, this way please! ... Xiao Baoshan went far away with Wan Shijie, while a servant rushed to the Sixth Kings residence. Li Chengyi and Li Chengru were still in the capital. The two of them had requested to go back to Baoning City twice, but they were both rejected by Li Chengkun. Li Chengkun said that they had been away from the capital for a long time and would forget what the capital was like if they didnt stay in the capital a little longer. Besides, soon after, the imperial n would hold a ceremony worshipping the ancestors. They, as brothers of the emperor, should show up at the ceremony in order to let the ministers know that the brothers of the imperial n were getting along well with each other. Li Chengyi and Li Chengru did not approve of holding the ceremony, as there was war in the north and the army needed the supply of fund and food from the national treasury. The ceremony would use up a lot of money andborers. However, Li Chengkun would not listen to them. The ceremony involved the royal familys reputation. They had to hold one, a grand one. A manservant arrived at the Sixth Kings residence and hurriedly reported to Li Chengyi, Your Highness, Xiao Baoshan is in the capital now. Oh? Where is he? He was picked up by Wan Shijie, and now he is on the way to the residence of the State Preceptor. As expected... Li Chengyi knew it would end up like this, but he couldnt stop it. Should I openly grab Xiao Baoshan from State Preceptor? Or should I ask Xiao Baoshan to not go to State Preceptors residence? Even if State Preceptor is willing to let him go, Xiao Baoshan wont leave his beloved Little Ye behind. ... Not long afterwards, Li Chengru came to him. The moment Li Chengru arrived, he said angrily, I heard that Xiao Baoshan is in the capital city now and everyone knows about this. Little Ye is in State Preceptors residence. They said she was invited, but everyone knows Little Ye was kidnapped. Li Chengyi said, State Preceptor wants to control the North with Xiao Baoshan. When Yan Ziyan wins, maybe... Li Chengru said, I dont know if Xiao Baoshan would yield to him. If Yan Ziyan wins, he will be the hero of Great Qi Dynasty. At that time, it will be ridiculous to let Xiao Baoshan fight against him! Who else will fight for Great Qi Dynasty then? Li Chengyi frowned. Li Chengyi then said to the servant, Go to guard the State Preceptors residence. As soon as Xiao Baoshanes out, you bring him to my residence. After all, everybody in the capital knows that Xiao Baoshan is close to me. ... Xiao Baoshan entered State Preceptors residence and State Preceptor was holding a banquet in the garden. Xiao Baoshan saw State Preceptor sitting in the pavilion, brightened. The stone table in front of him was filled with prime liquor, desserts, and thetest dishes developed by Zhang Deshui. Yo, General Xiao is here. Please forgive me for not weing you at the gate. State Preceptor stood up andughed, then gestured the cold-faced Xiao Baoshan to the pavilion. Xiao Baoshan sat down and said, State Preceptor dont need to be so polite. Im no longer a general, and even if I am a general now, your position is higher than mine. How could I be qualified to forgive you? State Preceptor poured a ss of liquor for Xiao Baoshan and said, Thats because you dont want to participate in political affairs. If you had done it, with your outstanding military service, your current position should definitely have been above me. Xiao Baoshan picked up the liquor and smelled it, but he didnt drink it. Then he asked, I heard that my wife is invited as a guest in your residence. Where is she now? You wife? She is fine. I wouldnt neglect General Xiaos wife, would I? But Im puzzled. When I first met your wife, she looked very shabby. Madam Xiao is a young girl and knows how to cook. How can you bear to let her suffer in the countryside and not to mention how isted and poor Baoning City is? You couldnt be more considerate with a beauty like her. Where is she? I want to see her. Xiao Baoshan repeated. Be patient. Ive already sent someone to invite her here. But, I wonder that it is rare for Madam Xiao toe to my residence. So its best if she stays here for a few more days and we can nurse her. Look at her thin figure, she doesnt look like a hostess of a family in the capital at all. On the contrary, she looks like a vige woman. Well, you should reflect on yourself. You refused the high position and great wealth and made your wife and mother suffer in the countryside. Why would you do that? As State Preceptor was talking, Xiao Baoshans eyes suddenly fixed on a certain ce, and then couldnt move away from it any more. Chapter 310 - She Can Be So Beautiful.

310. She Can Be So Beautiful.

Trantor: Ҽ When State Preceptor saw Xiao Baoshan looking behind him, he also turned around. Then just at that nce, State Preceptor was stunned too. It was Ye Xiaoxian and Jin Xiaoyu who were strolling gracefully over. Everyone knew Jin Xiaoyu as she was famous for her charm, yet what was astonishing was Little Ye. She changed into a pink dress, had makeup put on, andbed her hair, which made her look like a new person. She was as elegant as a water lily, and also as beautiful as a fairy who walked down from a painting. Xiao Baoshan stared nkly for a while, and the same was true for State Preceptor. Xiao Baoshan looked at Little Ye, because he never thought that his wife would have been such a beautiful and gracefuldy. As for State Preceptor, he seemed to see someone in Little Ye. How could it be... so alike? The present Little Ye looked like that person at the young age. When Ye Xiaoxian walked over from afar, she saw Xiao Baoshan and State Preceptor watching her. Come on, I just dress myself up. Is it really... that good? After she transmigrated, she had to admit that the original owner of this body was pretty beautiful. Yet, as time went by, no matter how good her appearance was, she was used to it. In addition, she had been living at the bottom of the society, so she gradually epted her identity as an ordinary citizen and a farmgirl. She had never expected to look so striking here in the capital city after dressing up. She couldnt help but feel regretful again. It was such a pity that she didnt transmigrate as a daughter born in an established family. Thinking about it, she approached Xiao Baoshan. After not seeing each other for so long, she naturally missed him. However, before she could reach the pavilion, she was stopped by Wan Shijie. Wan Shijie didnt let Little Ye get close to Xiao Baoshan at all. He only said, Madam, Im sorry. Its not the time for you to meet. If not, then why do you let us toe out to meet? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Xiao Baoshan also stood up and wanted to approach Ye Xiaoxian. But State Preceptor suddenly reached out to stop him. General Xiao, take it easy. I said that I will let you meet, so I will definitely not break my promise. But I also just said that Madam Xiao is still weak and needs to stay in the residence for some time, so I have to trouble you to wait patiently. Well, someone, take Madam Xiao back to her room first! Wan Shijie said to Ye Xiaoxian, Madam, please go back. What... I just saw him! He is my husband, and we even are not allowed to have a talk? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Wan Shijie said, Theres still time, and you two get plenty of chances to talk. Madam, dont worry! Of course, Ye Xiaoxian was reluctant to part with Xiao Baoshan, and Xiao Baoshan was also a little impulsive. At this time, there was a ruckus from the rooftops on all sides. When they looked at the roof again, there were archers and hundreds of arrows were aimed at them. No matter how powerful their martial arts were, there was no way to bring Ye Xiaoxian out of State Preceptors residence alive. How could Ye Xiaoxian not understand such a situation? With Wan Shijies intervening, she only said to Xiao Baoshan, Baoshan, Im fine here. Dont worry too much about me. Take care of yourself and do what you think is right! Wan Shijie said coldly to Ye Xiaoxian, Madam, you are talking too much. Jin Xiaoyu scolded, You never talk to your wife? Wan Shijie pointed a knife at Jin Xiaoyu. Jin Xiaoyu still scolded, Whats the meaning of bullying a woman? Ye Xiaoxian pushed away the knife in Wan Shijies hand and pulled Jin Xiaoyu over, Xiaoyu, it is a waste of breathing to talk with such a huge crap-weasel. He told us to go back, then lets just go back. A huge crap-weasel? What was it? Wan Shijie didnt know its meaning. However, Ye Xiaoxian did not pay much attention to it. After holding Jin Xiaoyus hand, she waved at Xiao Baoshan and walked back elegantly. ...... In the pavilion, Xiao Baoshan did not sat down until he couldnt see Ye Xiaoxian. At this moment, he started drinking. He picked up the ss in front of him and drank it up. State Preceptor smiled again. General Xiao, are you shocked when you see your wife? To be honest, I was also quite shocked. As a woman, she just should be pampered like this, being cared with delicious food and delicate clothes, so that she would look like a real woman. You used to make her work in the countryside, kill cows and sheep. You see, is that what a woman should do? Xiao Baoshan was silent. To be honest, he was still immersed in the shock just now. How could his woman be so beautiful! Therefore, he had some doubts about whether he had treated her unfairly over the past few years and didnt let her live a good day. State Preceptor added, Try these dishes again. Yourdy is very good at cooking. She also gave the recipe to my chef. ording to her recipe, the desserts and dishes that my chef made are verypatible with my appetite, especially the abalone and the ginseng chicken soup. However, these ingredients are very expensive. Yourdy knows how to cook them, but no matter how good she is at cooking, she can never cook without proper ingredients, what do you think? Xiao Baoshan also had some dishes on the table. They were indeed delicious. He had never eaten these dishes before. Seeing that Xiao Baoshan was willing to eat, State Preceptor said proudly, Since youre willing to eat, that means you agree with my idea, right? This time, I invite you over mainly because I need your help. State Preceptor, please tell me, Xiao Baoshan said. Actually, he had already guessed a bit. State Preceptor smiled and said, The north is currently at war, do you know? Xiao Baoshan said deliberately, Ive been recovering for the past two years, so actually, I dont know. The people who are fighting for our country now is a group of crooks. They used to be some desperados who were against the imperial court, but now they are on the border to fight. Its better if they could win. But if they lose, it would be embarrassing for imperial court. Xiao Baoshan asked, State Preceptor wants me to help. Of course I want you to help, but... State Preceptor suddenlyughed again, Its not now, but after a while, when they have almost exhausted the Northern Qing Army, you will pretend to be a troop from the Northern Qing Army, go out, and then... State Preceptor gesticte to kill someone. At this point, Xiao Baoshan suddenly felt frozen. This scene was really deja vu! Back then, they had spent a long time with the Northern Qing Army. Just when they were about to win, the Northern Qing Army suddenly increased their military strength and killed many of them by surprise. Then, in turn, who was the one who defeated the Northern Qing Army? Could it be a State Preceptors scheme? General Xiao, are you alright? Seeing that Xiao Baoshan suddenly didnt say anything, State Preceptor quickly asked him. Xiao Baoshan snorted coldly. Do you need time to think about it? State Preceptor asked, and then smiled, It doesnt matter. You have plenty of time to think about it. As long as you have made up your mind, you juste to reply me. Anyway, you have seen your Madam in my residence, she is well taken care of, but... if you think that you cant do it yourself, then I have to find someone else to do it. At that time, then she would not be treated like this. You are a smart person. I believe that you wont leave her alone, right? Xiao Baoshan stood up and said, Thank you for your treat today. I might as well call it a day and visit you next time. Thats ok, any time, you are weed, but dont let me wait too long. I dont have the patience to wait for someone, said State Preceptor. ...... No sooner than Xiao Baoshan and Little ck came out of State Preceptors residence had they been picked up by people of the Sixth King. In any case, it was already an indisputable fact that Xiao Baoshan and the Sixth King were friends. So this time, as Xiao Baoshan came back, it was not inappropriate to live at the Sixth Kings residence. As soon as he arrived at the Sixth Kings residence, after some necessary etiquette, Li Chengyi, Li Chengru and Xiao Baoshan sat in front of a small square table for tea. Li Chengyi asked, Did State Preceptor call you over because of the war in the north? Xiao Baoshan nodded and exined State Preceptors n with his fists in his hands. Then he said, I suspect that State Preceptor used this method to deal with the Fourth King and me. Thats why our Qi Army was wiped out in the northpletely at that time. How absurd! Li Chengru was so angry that he clenched his fists, If thats the case, then I really suspect that it is State Preceptor who did this. I think we should stop waiting. We might as well ambush and secretly kill State Preceptor. Then we rescue Little Ye and escape from the capital city. Thus, establish ourselves as a kingdom in the southwest! Seventh Brother, please dont be impulsive. This idea is very inappropriate. If we do this, we will likely end up with a charge of treason. Besides, we cant im the crown. This is a disgrace to the ancestors and will split the political branch. Can it be that we dont revenge for Fourth Brother? Li Chengru asked. Of course, we have to revenge but not now. Besides, we dont have any evidence. You know, killing State Preceptor is a small matter, but after killing him, it will definitely involve our wives and children as well as the citizens of Baoning City. How many people will die because of our actions? Li Chengru listened to Li Chengyis words and his anger slowly faded. But he was also filled with resentment towards State Preceptor. That old fart, dont fall into my hands! Otherwise, I would make your life suffer and beg for death! Seeing Li Chengrus anger go down, Li Chengyi asked Xiao Baoshan, Baoshan, what are you thinking now? Little Ye is indeed at State Preceptors mercy. If you dont follow him, then probably you also wouldnt be able to save her out either. Xiao Baoshan said, When I entered State Preceptors residence, State Preceptor had given me a disgrace. His residence is heavily-guarded, as he has raised many archers and men of sacrifice. The entire State Preceptor residence is quite impregnable. Even if there are more skilled masters like me, I cant save Little Ye. What should we do? Li Chengru asked, We cant just watch Little Ye die. Xiao Baoshan replied, It still needs to be discussed. It is best if we can find a way to get both the best. If we cant find it, I also cannot agree to State Preceptor. If I cant save Little Ye, I will die with her. ...... At the State Preceptors residence. State Preceptor was still drinking at the pavilion. After a few drinks, he ordered the general manager to bring Ye Xiaoxian over and only her alone. Half a quarterter, Ye Xiaoxian was brought here. Chapter 311 - The Left Envoy of the West General

311. The Left Envoy of the West General

Trantor: Bryan The State Preceptor turned to look at Ye Xiaoxian again. Her face was dainty, her eyes slightly nted. With rouge on her cheeks, her each and every move was gracious. Please take a seat, Madam Xiao. The State Preceptor pointed at the seat in front of him. Ye Xiaoxian noticed that Xiao Baoshan had left. And the bowl, wine cup and chopsticks he had used had been reced with new ones. It would seem the State Preceptor wanted to talk to her in private, presumably trying to convince her to be his lobbyist. Knowing that she had no other choice, she sat down without hesitation. Would you like some wine, Madam Xiao? said the State Preceptor, This is the Immortality Wine from the pce, top-of-the-line. Ye Xiaoxian took a sip. It was not very strong, but indeed much tastier than what they sold on the street. She nodded. It does taste good. They made it with early morning dew, right? Seeing that she had some acquaintance with wine, the State Preceptor said, It would seem Madam Xiao is an expert. I heard that youre from the countryside and used to own a restaurant. Thats true. No wonder. You mustve dealt with all kinds of people when running a restaurant, which is why youre pretty spunky. Thank you for yourpliment, State Preceptor. It seems that youve done a detailed background check on me. I only look into the Xiao family. The State Preceptor took a sip of wine and then asked casually, May I ask where your parents are, Madam Xiao? Theyre dead! Ye Xiaoxian said firmly. She knew nothing about the parents of the original owner of her body. ording to Li Hongmei, she had been purchased from a human trafficker. In this dynasty, there were people selling their children everywhere. A man could buy an underage girl to be his future wife at the price of two taels of silver. Given that the couple had sold the original owner of this body, they must be destitute and have little love for their daughter, so they were as good as dead to Ye Xiaoxian. Surprisingly, the State Preceptor asked, Dead? How did they die? Little Ye thought for a moment and said, Im not sure. I just know theyre dead. Maybe they drowned in a river, or maybe they got killed in a mudslide. The State Preceptor thought to himself, So its not her. Xiao Baoshans hometown was in Qinghe County which was very remote. His daughter could never have got that far. The State Preceptor then said to Little Ye, I heard from Zhang Deshui that your cooking skills are pretty good. The recipes for these side dishes are all from you. Where did you learn to cook? Who is Zhang Deshui? Hes one of my cooks. Little Ye said, Oh, his culinary skills are good, but not perfect. Many of these dishes could have been improved, such as the pork legs and the ducks gizzard. You like cooking? Of course, Little Ye replied curtly. Well, you may pay a visit to the kitchen and have a little cooking contest with Zhang Deshui when you have the time, so that Ill get to taste the food made by you. Little Ye said, No problem. There were so many precious ingredients in the State Preceptors residence, and she had plenty of leisure at hand, so why not practice with those ingredients? ...... At the imperial court. On this day, the State Preceptor specially brought a lunchbox to the court. After entering the pce, he handed it to his subordinate and instructed him to deliver the snack to the empress dowager for her to enjoy. After the court meeting, the State Preceptor specially visited the empress dowagers pce. The empress dowager was stroking her cat. At the sight of the State Preceptor, she asked, Ive tasted the snacks you had my men deliver to me in the morning. Theyre very delicious, more delicious than what the imperial cooks could make, to be honest. Theyre light and had the ingredients original vor. The pork legs were particrly tasty. Normally I have to gnaw when having pork legs, but the ones I ate in the morning were boneless. Theyre soft and glutinous and tender, and the vor was very lingering. I heard that that kind of stuff is very good for skin health. Is that so? Im d you like it. But do you know who cooked them? asked the State Preceptor. Who was it? Did you recruit a new cook? The former one... Zhang Deshui, I believe thats his name. He resigned? Zhang Deshui used to serve the former emperor, and the empress dowager had had the food he cooked before, which was why she knew his name. State Preceptor said, He did not resign. I have a young female visitor staying in my ce. Shes Xiao Baoshans wife. Her culinary skills are divine. Whats more surprising is that she bears some resemnce to what you looked like when you were younger. Oh? When I was younger? The empress dowager showed a disdainful expression. When I was young, I was the most beautiful woman in this country. Are you sure shepares to me? Of course she cannot hold a candle to you. She just looks a bit like you. Apart from anything else, shes from the countryside, and her temperament is different from you. The empress dowager was a little unhappy. Did you miss the younger version of me when you saw the girl who looked like me? All men like young women, and they dump old ones when they have younger alternatives. Thats not true. Youre not old. Your skin is still so delicate. Youre the woman I love the most, and also the only woman I love, said the State Preceptor, giving her cheek a yful tweak. Then why did you keep her in your house? To make Xiao Baoshan toe the line. Then the State Preceptor told her his n and added, Thats why I cant let Madam Xiao go for the moment. I need to put her under house arrest, otherwise her husband will refuse to do my bidding. The empress dowager heaved a sigh. Whats that sigh about? the State Preceptor asked. Im sighing because I wonder if you guys will ever get tired of scheming against each other, and because women always end up bing the victims. The empress dowager recalled how she had been sent into the pce. When she entered the pce, she was only sixteen years old and had just given birth to a daughter. At that time, thetest emperor was already more than sixty years old. Though in favor with the emperor, she was very unhappy. Every day, she had to figure out new ways to please thetest emperor, and she had to guard against tricks from his concubines in the harem. Fortunately, she had been extremely beautiful, and thetest emperor had been a lecher, and the State Preceptor had offered her a lot of constructive advice, which was why she had risen to the top of the hierarchy in the harem. The State Preceptor swept the empress dowager into his embrace and stroked her shoulder. I know you feel wronged, but look where you are now. Even the emperor now has to respectfully call you mother, let alone the others. And you have inexhaustible wealth and infinite fame. I just miss our daughter. I wonder if shes still alive. Come on, not again. The State Preceptor kissed her on the lips to stop her from saying anything else. Soon, the empress dowager was lying limply beneath the State Preceptor, unable to speak. ...... It was already evening and Li Chengkun was still dealing with memorials to the throne. When the first batch of memorials were handled, he asked the eunuch waiting on the side, Is the State Preceptor still in my mothers pce? I... I dont know, Your Majesty. Go find out. If hes still there, bring him to me. Yes, Your Majesty. The eunuch took his leave. About half an hourter, the State Preceptor arrived. Since he had been rolling on a bed, his clothes were rather dissheveled. Li Chengkun couldnt help frowning. State Preceptor, next time youe here, make yourself presentable. Yes, Your Majesty. Has Xiao Baoshan replied? Li Chengkun asked. Not yet, but his wife has been put under house arrest in my ce. I dont think hell wait for long. Besides, were not in a rush to make a decision. Messages from the north suggest that the war is still in a stalemate. Theres no telling if Xiao Baoshan is there to put out the fire or to add oil to it. Li Chengkuns eyes fell on the memorial in front of him. Yan Zijing and his men had been fighting in the north for over a month, and the eventual winner was indeed still unknown, but provisions were decreasing and the casualty number was rising by the day. Indeed, they had no idea whether Xiao Baoshan was going there to add oil to fire or to put it out. But no matter what, he had to go to the battlefield. Li Chengkun then asked the State Preceptor, We cant send Xiao Baoshan there for no apparent reason. And he needs a good cause to lead the army. Should we bestow a title upon him? The State Preceptor said, Well, about the title... He used to serve the Sixth King stationed in the south-west, so we might make him Left Envoy of the West General, and we send him north as backup. What about Qian Qi? Li Chengkuns then asked. Qian Qi will remain West General. But Xiao Baoshan is stronger than Qian Qi. Thats even better. Xiao Baoshan is clearly stronger but his rank is lower, so he will be sure as hell to feel unbnced, which means he will be on bad terms with Qian Qi, and they will not join hands. Li Chengkun looked at the State Preceptor, and sighed inwardly, Its true what they say, the tactics of experienced people are just ruthless. The State Preceptor added, We may have Qian Qi stay here for the time being. If you want to send someone north, it has to be Xiao Baoshan. Or, we may transfer Qian Qi back to Baoning City after some time. So Qian Qi will be our pawn used to hold Xiao Baoshan in check? The State Preceptor smiled, Exactly. Qian Qi is also a tough guy. At present, we have no goods on him in the capital city. It is very difficult to tie him down. If we order him to go north to put out the fire, he will almost certainly refuse. Besides, weve already sacrificed Qian Dong to make the big n work. If Qian Qi dies, the bloodline of the Qian family will be cut off for good. With that, the State Preceptor and Li Chengkun smiled at each other. In the past, Qian Qis big brother had been sent to put out the fire. Originally, afterpleting the task, he could have returned to the capital where he would be made a marquis, but as a member of the Qian family, he had been very stubborn. After quenching the mes, he had chosen to destroy the army of the Northan Qing Kingdom at the cost of his own life. Otherwise, they would not have got the chance to throw mud at Xiao Baoshan. ...... In the north. The war had been going on in full swing. As expected, Yan Ziyan was a born fieldmander and had what it took to be a general. Originally, there had not been many men in Ziyan Vi, but with the help of the fifty thousand men sent by the imperial court, they had managed to hold back the enemy until now. Moreover, under his leadership, the fifty thousand men had done what a hundred thousand men might not be able to do. The Northern Qing Kingdom had sent reinforcements three times in a row, but they were still unable to take Heihe City. The city used to be very vulnerable, but now, it was like an impregnable castle. The suprememander of the enemy was so angry that he almost vomited blood. They had lost several generals, all of whom had great fighting skills. However, Yan Ziyan and his men had never received any military training, and they never adopt any conventional tactics when fighting. Their strategies were erratic and ever-changing, and the enemy never knew what their next move might be. However, the Northern Qing Army did not have time to guard against it and thus started fighting back with no borately formted battle ns. They could only send in reinforcements repeatedly, intending to win the war with the outweight of numbers. Yan Ziyan and the others were fighting more and more fiercely, and thus the war continued without any rules. That night, they intercepted a group of Northern Qing soldiersing to attack the city, surrounded them and annihted them with hails of arrows. Chapter 312 - Roast Lamb

312. Roast Lamb

Trantor: ChowvanLee When they were sweeping up the dead bodies on the battlefield, Yan Ziyan and the rest were overjoyed, especially Wang Meng. Wang Mengughed out loud, Hahaha, Northern Qing Kingdom is just a paper tiger. It looks mighty. In fact, it cant withstand a single blow. They have dispatched one troop after another but none of them is powerful. The Emperor and State Preceptor didnt dare to send armies to fight against them, and indicated that our country had no strong generals. It doesnt make sense. I think we are very strong! In my opinion, they are not capable of managing people. They found some useless men in charge of the army. No wonder they lose every time. Yan Ziyan didnt dare to hold a victory party at this point. After all, this battle was not over and as long as the Northern Qing Kingdom did not surrender, they had to stay here with the enemy. They had not been defeated yet, but if they kept wasting time here, Yan Ziyan was afraid that the soldiers would give up one day. Wang Meng then said to Yan Ziyan, When the Northern Qing Kingdom surrenders, the Heihe City and the Linglong County will be our territory. Hahaha! At that time, we should call you Marquis Yan. Yan Ziyan immediately became serious. Dont talk nonsense. We have not yet won the battle. If we act too arrogant, the imperial court will definitely wipe us out. Its not up to them. Were going to do our job alone. If they wont ept us, then we will directly attack the capital city and change an emperor. At that time, Brother Yan, you will be the emperor! Yan Ziyan saw that Wang Meng was getting more and more ridiculous, so he scolded him, Wang Meng! If you continue to talk such nonsense, I will punish you with militaryws. Wang Meng gave up and dared not go on this subject. ... In the capital. Xiao Baoshan was once again appointed as a general. He was just appointed as a Right General. Strictly speaking, he was only a fifth rank official and was not qualified to be distributed a residence. Qian Qi was a third rank official and had a residence. One day, they gathered at the Sixth Kings residence, including Qian Qi, Xiao Baoshan and Li Chengru. The moment Qian Qi arrived, he said to Xiao Baoshan, General Xiao, are you unwilling to be appointed as the Right General? Xiao Baoshan smiled, State Preceptor and His Majesty wanted to split us up in this way. Actually, I never want to be a general. I just want to get my job done. Besides, I never care about what my title is. Qian Qi agreed, I have seen it clearly these days. This is who they have always been. They suppress loyal officials and let thempete with each other. As such, they will be addicted to plotting and wrangling each other and have no energy to do things for the imperial court. This will only produce more parasites for the imperial court. Everyone nodded and agreed with Qian Qi. Li Chengyi looked to Xiao Baoshan and said, The result of the battle in the North is uncertain. I assume State Preceptor will not send you out for the time being, so we have toe up with an borate n on how to save your wife. Qian Qi asked, What next once we seed? What about it? Baoshan had already been granted a general. If his wife is out, would he be able to sessfully resign from his position and flee with his wife? Li Chengyi said, Theres always a solution. As long as Baoshan is willing to give up the opportunity to be an official in the capital. Xiao Baoshan said right away, I have never been long for the prosperity of the capital city. I just want to live a poor but peaceful life with my wife. ... The ceremony of worshipping the ancestors in the pce was about to begin. This kind of ceremony was usually handled by the Ministry of Rites. Since it involved the royal family, the harem was also in charge of a part, such as the royal banquet after the ceremony. The Empress was responsible for this banquet, and because this was not a small matter, Empress Dowager would be the supervisor. The Empress had delivered the process of the royal banquet to Empress Dowager early. The Empress Dowager had no problems with it except that she advised on the dishes. This banquet will invite all the royal descendants and their family members. Who is responsible for the dishes? The Empress Dowager asked. The Empress replied, The cooks in the pce. Do they have enough people? It should be enough. The cows and sheep used for the ceremony will return to the dinner table. Our cooks will be responsible for theter processing. The Empress said. The Empress Dowager said, Im afraid its not enough. How about this, you send an order to the Ministry of Rites. If they need more people, they can figure out a way to mobilize these servants. This ceremony is rted to the prosperity of the next year. We must take it seriously. Yes! The Empress received the order and left. The Empress was twenty-six this year. As the female leader of this country, she had to look after everything in the harem. She would be questioned if there were anypses. She also had to evade covert attacks from the concubines. As such, she was younger than the Empress Dowager, but looked more haggard than her. Ever since the Empress came out of the Empress Dowagers pce, she had been feeling annoyed. The process has been clearly set up. Its so detailed that all thenterns for the banquet are carefully selected. The Empress Dowager is so picky. Isnt she looking for bones in an egg? The maid serving the Empress Dowager consoled her right away, Your Majesty, dont be angry. The Empress Dowager is that sort of person. She was unwilling to run affairs when she was in your position. Now she is the Empress Dowager, what she will do is only to give an order. Please try to do whatever she wants, and dont make her angry! The Empress said, Alright. Inform the Ministry of Rites and let them check the numbers again in case there are not enough cooks. Also, we must ensure that the ingredients are fresh, so as not to eat stale meat at night. ... The Ministry of Rites paid great attention to this ceremony, so they sped up. The ceremony in the capital was far moreplicated than in the Tianshan tribe. Tianshan tribe only used cows and sheep in ceremonies, while the imperial family used six different domestic animals. Besides, when the ceremony was over, the meat would be made into dishes for the imperial familys descendants to eat, so they must ensure fresh ingredients. The Ministry of Rites had appointed some of the imperial chefs, but it was not enough, so they had to take some of the chefs from the ministers residence. As the former head of imperial chefs, Zhang Deshui was naturally a member of the team. The ceremony was going to start in three days. The Ministry of Rites had prepared all the ingredients, but Zhang Deshui and the other chefs had not yet decided on the menu. The ceremony was held every year, so they were supposed to know how to cook these ingredients used for the festival. However, the Ministry of Rites had changed the minister this year. It was said that this minister had travelled many ces and eaten prime roastmb and roast whole suckling pigs, so he had a high standard on the taste. This ceremonys dishes of beef,mb, pork, and dog meat, must be in line with his tastes, otherwise, chefs had to make new dishes until he was satisfied. Zhang Deshui and the others had already roasted seven suckling pigs, eight sheep, and nine dogs. However, the minister of the Ministry of Rites wouldnt let them pass, which made the group of chefs very exhausted. Apparently, the newly-appointed minister wanted to show off in front of the Emperor. He wanted the descendants of the imperial family and the ministers to enjoy the meal. When these chefs failed again, they couldnt help but scream in pain. This minister only cares about the taste, but he doesnt know the recipes. He is making things difficult for us! Exactly, this is how we cook the meat every year. His Majesty has never judged on the taste. Besides, the imperial family wont eat much at a banquet. Its just a tradition. The minister is too picky. If he goes on like this, we will find our heads on the street. It wont happen. If we cant finish this work, the minister is responsible as well. I just hope that he can figure it out sooner and dont torment us anymore. ... Zhang Deshuiined, too. He nearly spitted saliva into the ingredients. Somehow, he thought of Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian had been studying ingredients, and Zhang Deshui heard that she had been in a tribe. I assume that she have seen roasted beef and sheep in the tribe. What if she has the recipe? Zhang Deshui immediately left the pce and returned to the State Preceptors residence. Then he went to the backyard to visit Ye Xiaoxian. ... Ye Xiaoxian was bored to death these days. Apart from cooking asionally, what she could do was staying in her room and did nothing. She even learned to embroider flowers with Jin Xiaoyu. They were embroidering mandarin ducks. Jin Xiaoyu embroidered the mandarin duck into a cartoon duck while Little Ye embroidered it into a goose. Then theyughed at each other. At this point, the old maid said that Zhang Deshui was here for Little Ye. Little Ye put the needle and thread down and went out. She and Zhang Deshui had been exchanging cooking skills for the time being. They had met many times and no one stopped them. After all, State Preceptor liked to eat the dishes she made. When Zhang Deshui saw Little Ye, he hurriedly gave the desserts taken out from the pce to Little Ye and said, These are pce desserts. Usually, only the Empress and imperial concubines can eat them. I take some out today. Madam Xiao, please have a try. Little Ye asked curiously, You even entered the pce? Yes. Zhang Deshui chuckled. Little Ye took the dessert box from Zhang Deshui. Then she opened the lid, took out a small cookie and had a bite. It is good. Little Ye asked again, How can you enter the pce? Is it easy to enter the pce? Its not easy. I havent been selected to enter the pce for a long time. But there will be a ceremony in the pce worshipping the ancestors in a few days. There is ack of chefs, so I am recruited too. Hehe. What did you do in there? Ye Xiaoxian asked again. Jin Xiaoyu went out at this time. She saw those cookies and picked one up. Then she sat down to listen to what Little Ye and Zhang Deshui were talking about while she was eating this cookie. Zhang Deshui said, I have to cook six domestic animals, such as roastmb and suckling pigs. Basically, these kinds of meat are all roasted. Jin Xiaoyu said, Oh, thats simple. Little Ye knows how to make roastmbs. They are the best roastmb Ive ever eaten. Really? Zhang Deshuis eyes glowed. What are you gonna do? Little Ye cant get into the pce. Jin Xiaoyu said. Zhang Deshui asked Little Ye right away, Madam Xiao, how do you make roastmbs? I want to refer to your recipe. The new minister of the Ministry of Rites is too picky and is unsatisfied with what we roasted. I want to try your recipe. Previously, no matter what recipes Zhang Deshui wanted, as long as he asked Little Ye for the recipes, Little Ye would tell him. But this time, Little Ye didnt tell him right away. How about this. Ill roastmb first. You can try its taste before you decide whether you want this recipe. If you like it, Ill tell it to you. Chapter 313 - Snatching for Food

313. Snatching for Food

Trantor: ChowvanLee Okay. Zhang Deshui said hurriedly. Then you have to prepare ingredients for me. Ye Xiaoxian added, and then gave Zhang Deshui a piece of paper that listed detailedly what she needed. Without further ado, Zhang Deshui went to prepare ingredients for her. ... Usually, when State Preceptor came back from the court, he would practise martial art for a while as a way of stretching his body. When the chief steward brought him snacks, he asked as usual, Is everything ok in this residence today? Nothing special. Everything is under control. Chief steward answered. Okay, good then. Since there was nothing happened, the State Preceptor didnt care much. He liked to practise martial art when he came back home from the court every morning. Sometimes, he would y with the crested myna he raised. He had a wife and three sons. His wife was the same age as him. When he was young, he listened to his family and married her. After she gave birth to three children, he feels nothing for her. Apart from have-to-go family dinners, he hardly dined with his wife. His three sons grew up and held positions above fifth-rank in the imperial court. They had had their own residences and moved away from them. So he was living an unrestrained life. By the way, Lord State Preceptor, Zhang Deshui went look for Madam Xiao again. Probably for recipes. He has been working in the Ministry of Rites recently and might be having difficulty. I heard that the newly-appointed minister is quite picky, and he isnt satisfied with the dishes made of the six domestic animals. State Preceptor said while practising, A neer. Its normal that he wants to satisfy the Emperor and the Empress Dowager. Thats understandable. The chief stewardughed. So, Zhang Deshui is forced to ask for help from Madam Xiao. It seems that Madam Xiao isnt good enough to help him out. She is good at makingmon dishes and desserts, as for the six domestic animals... I think its beyond her capability. Zhang Deshui is in a hurry to seek solutions. He just asked me to buy beef and and pork, saying that Madam Xiao needs these. Just leave it. Madam Xiao is bored in the residence anyway. The State Preceptor said. Mmm, I feel the same way, so I agreed to buy the ingredients. ... Little Ye got the ingredients but didnt go to the kitchen of the State Preceptors residence. Instead, she cooked in the kitchen of her small yard. She first made roastmb and roast suckling pig. She wouldnt let Zhang Deshui study and emte by her side and only let a few of her maids assist her in the kitchen. Zhang Deshui was so anxious that he asked Little Ye to let him in several times, but she refused. Little Ye said, Im a guest of the State Preceptors residence. Youre a male cook. It is inappropriate if we make food in one kitchen. It would have a negative effect on my reputation. Zhang Deshui had to stay in the yard. He walked around with his hands behind his back. After a while, he asked the maid guarding the door, Whats going on inside? The maid went in and took a look. Theyre wiping something on the sheeps body. That is marination. Zhang Deshui said roughly. After a while, Zhang Deshui asked again, What about now? The maid checked and said, They are roasting the sheep on the fire. How? Zhang Deshui asked. Just... over the fire? Zhang Deshui was so mad. Of course its on the fire. Could they roast it in the water? What Zhang Deshui meant was whether it was a fierce fire or a small fire or it was grilled? Did they roast it on a broiler? He asked a question, and the maid gave an answer. He became more and more anxious. He wanted to break in, but was stopped by the maids. They told him he couldnt get into the kitchen. He could hardly wait to see what was going on. Ye Xiaoxian had told him all the ingredients, but chefs knew that the usage of ingredients was very important. It was of great importance to put them in at the exact time and quantity. ... The sheep and pig were being roasted all day. At night, people were supposed to go to bed, but the wind was strong. When the wind blew, the smell of roasted meat spread all over State Preceptors residence. Many people were unable to fall asleep because of the smell of the roasted meat. The State Preceptor couldnt sleep, either. He called the chief steward and asked when the meat would be ready. If it was done, he would have a te of it. Even the State Preceptors wife couldnt sleep. Mrs. State Preceptor had been neglected for years. To save face, she disguised herself as a person who believed in Buddhism. By doing so, other people thought that she didnt care about State Preceptor, too, so no one would think that she was unwanted. However, when she smelled the roasted meat, she wanted to taste it. Therefore, she sent an old maid to take a look. She asked her to bring a te of meat back in her name if the meat was ready. The people in Ye Xiaoxians yard were unable to sleep. Because of the smell of the meat, people came over from time to time to ask if there was anything they could help with. In fact, they just want to get the meat of this roastmb and roast pig. Later, all wings sent servants over, but Little Ye didnt let them in. She told them that the meat would have to roast for a while longer, so those people were waiting outside. The chief steward was surprised when he saw Mrs. State Preceptors maid. Why are you here? Did Madam send you here? Yes. Madam said the meat smells good, so she asked me toe over and get some to eat. But Madam is a vegetarian, she wouldnt eat it. The chief steward didnt want to expose her. Actually, she was exposing herself. The chief steward already knew that Madam ate meat and she had eaten chicken drumsticks secretly many times. Zhang Deshui had been walking around outside the kitchen. The smell of roastmb made him fretful. Every now and then, he asked the maid what was going on in the kitchen. Eventually, the maid was annoyed and shut the door. Jin Xiaoyu got into the kitchen to see what Little Ye was doing, and went out to check the situation in the courtyard. Then she was amused by this scene. Little Ye, when is the meat done? There are many people outside, holdingnterns and waiting for your roastmb. Little Ye was absolutely strict with dishes. As long as she felt it not done, she wouldnt take the meat out no matter who was here. After fifteen minutes, she started sprinkling sesames on the meat. And then she let out a long sigh. Alright. Lets take it out. Usually, the courtyard was quiet but now it was lit up by more than tennterns. People swarmed over Ye Xiaoxian when they heard the meat was ready. When Zhang Deshui saw the roastedmb and roast suckling pig, he couldnt help but sighed, The color, the texture. They are so good. Dont know how they taste. Ye Xiaoxian was distributing the roastmb and roast pig. She intentionally cut the meat into small pieces to ensure that everybody could have some. The chief steward and Mrs. State Preceptor left right away after getting the meat. Ye Xiaoxian gave the remaining part to her maids after people from other wings were gone. Although they might not have enough meat, she had to make sure that everyone had some. She was grateful that they had stayed here for such a long time. Besides, they had to serve Little Ye when she bathedter. At this moment, she smelled like roasted meat all over her body. Chapter 314 - He Found a Savior

314. He Found a Savior

Trantor: ChowvanLee Zhang Deshui got the meat. Other people started eating the meat as soon as they got it, but Zhang Deshui wasnt like them. Instead, he first smelled it hard for a while, and then put a piece in his mouth. The moment he tasted the meat, his eyes lit up. Thembskin was very crisp. The meat was very tender and tasty but didnt have the stink of sheep. The roast pig was the same. Not only was it mixed with the fragrance of various ingredients, but it also preserved the original taste of pork. He cried as he ate, Little Ye is better than us. The minister will definitely be satisfied this time. When Zhang Deshui finished the meat and wanted a little more, he found that the roastmb and roast pig had been divided up, nothing left. I got the ingredients, but the people in this residence take the meat away for granted. Do they think this is a midnight snack for them? ... The chief steward also brought the meat back to the State Preceptor. He got a whole roastedmb leg. Of course, State Preceptor couldnt finish it. Older people paid attention to health and had to eat less at night. He had just wanted to have a try, but in the end he ate more pieces than he had thought. He remembered that he couldnt eat much at night so he stopped and gave the rest to the chief steward. The chief steward was waiting for this moment. Even though it was a little cold, its taste didnt change at all. The chief steward wolfed it up. ... In the meantime, Mrs. State Preceptor was eating the meat, too. She closed the door to her yard in case anyone could find she was eating meat. While eating, she was feigning to scold the old maid. Why are you always so voracious? You can find everything you want in the State Preceptors residence. Why do you go for a bit of roasted meat in the middle of the night? Youre such a foodie. Later, Ill find a sheep and ask Madam Xiao to roast it for you. If you cant finish it, donte back. The old maid replied, You are right, madam. I was wrong. I wont do this any more. After the old maid finished, Mrs. State Preceptor started eating the meat. Mrs. State Preceptor also got amb leg. She was gluttonous and had eaten half of it before she realized. ... Zhang Deshui finished his meat. He asked Ye Xiaoxian, Madam Xiao, Im not bragging about you. The roastmb far surpasses those made by the chefs in the pce. However, they require us to prepare the meat the previous night. They will bring it to the ceremony the next morning, and they wont eat it until the royal dinner begins. I wonder if the meat could keep fresh and maintain its taste after a long day? Ye Xiaoxian said, Its okay. As long as you dont steam the meat, you can heat it by roasting it again or you can change the cooking method. Change the method? How? Zhang Deshui asked. Remake the seasoning and heat the meat by boiling it with the seasoning. This is suitable for people who like strong vors. Zhang Deshui chuckled, Then...could you tell me the recipe now? Why? Ye Xiaoxian asked. Zhang Deshui shouted, You told me that If I like the roast meat, you will give me the recipe. Thats what you said. I only said to have a try. I dont know if I can seed. Heavens! Madam, Im running out of time, so please, dont make fun of me. Give me the recipe so that I can finish my job. Otherwise, I might end up being beheaded. Ye Xiaoxian said indifferently, It was you who got killed. Its none of my business. Madam, how about I kneel down for you? Zhang Deshui begged again. Ye Xiaoxian said, Youre embarrassing me if you kneel to me. What... what should I do? Zhang Deshui was about to cry, but he couldnt rush up and strangle Ye Xiaoxian to death if he couldnt get the recipe. Ye Xiaoxian smiled, Unless you rmend me to be a chef of this ceremony. Then I can enter the pce. I have never entered the pce in my life. Im curious about what the pce looks like. ... Zhang Deshui opened his mouth, You want to enter the pce? ... Little Ye took a shower again. She and Jin Xiaoyu chatted in her room while drying her hair. Jin Xiaoyu couldnt fall asleep because she had eaten too much this night. Jin Xiaoyu asked Little Ye, Do you really want to enter the pce? Why? Are you trying to escape? Or are you really curious about the pce? Ye Xiaoxian asked, Of course thetter. You think we can get away from here? What if Baoshanes to rescue us? If we can enter the pce, it means that the State Preceptor is smart. Obviously, He will keep an eye on Baoshan and arrange for people to follow us along the way. Baoshan will not take this risk. Ye Xiaoxian didnt think too much of it. She really wanted to see the pce. And she knew that Xiao Baoshan couldnt be so bold in the capital. Even if he could take her out of the capital city, there were soldiers behind them and they wouldnt be able to escape. At the same time, she thought that if she couldnt run away and would die in the end, it would be worth it to see the pce. After all, she was unable to see what the real pce looked like in the modern world. Jin Xiaoyu thought differently. She didnt want to see the pce. She just wanted to leave the State Preceptors residence. However, it was hard to get out of the State Preceptors residence. She felt depressed. ... Zhang Deshui didnt know how to persuade Little Ye to hand over the recipe. The ceremony would start soon. He was not able to figure out how to make the roast meat ording to the list of ingredients Little Ye had given him. So what he could do was to ask the State Preceptor for help, hoping that he could let Little Ye enter the pce. Enter the pce? The State Preceptor was ying with a big round stone in his hand. Because the ceremony was about to begin, so ministers could take a rest at home in the next few days. Yes. We will continue to make roastmbs and roast pigs today. Im worried that we still cant meet the ministers requirements. If so, were gonna... No, it doesnt matter what we would be, but the ceremony has to be perfect. The State Preceptor thought of the roastmb he atest night. It was so delicious. He had never eaten such delicious roastmb in his life. If the Empress Dowager and the Emperor eat it, they would love it, too. Let Ye Xiaoxian enter the pce? Actually, she could enter the pce. Where she can go in the pce is only the kitchen. What she can only do is to cook in the kitchen. The pce was heavily guarded. She is unable to escape. Its nearly impossible for Xiao Baoshan to rescue her in the pce. The State Preceptor thought for a while and said, Okay, you can bring her into the pce, but only her. Jin Xiaoyu cant go with her. Zhang Deshui was overjoyed. Anyway, as long as Ye Xiaoxian can satisfy the minister of the Ministry of Rites, I will be okay. ... Finally, Ye Xiaoxian could leave the State Preceptors residence. Even though she had toe back at night, it was good that she could go to other ces. They deliberately made Jin Xiaoyu stay at the State Preceptors residence to prevent Ye Xiaoxian from escaping. They could never escape and leave theirpanion behind. That was their spirit. Ye Xiaoxian entered the pce by carriage. There were many people around her, probably all kungfu masters in the State Preceptors residence. This flock of people attracted many peoples attention along the way. It looked as grand as the State Preceptoring out of the residence. With the State Preceptors handwriting, they entered the pce smoothly. The carriage stopped at the designated position and then they had to walk to the kitchen. Little Ye had been impressed by the size of the State Preceptors residence when she first saw it. She entered the pce at this point and was even more impressed. This ce was like a small city with pces scattered regrly. The style of these pces looked simr. One was very easy to get lost if he wandered around it. There were many servants in the State Preceptors residence, but even more in the pce. And many guards were walking back and forth in a standardized way, very powerful. Little Ye looked around and walked slowly. Zhang Deshui reminded her, Madam Xiao, there are rules in the pce. You cant look around like this. This will vite the rules. Cant I at least look? Ye Xiaoxian thought in her mind, Even though the pce isrge, if I live in here meticulously for a while, I would go mad. The State Preceptors residence is better. Although the State Preceptor is a dangerous man, Im living a luxurious and unrestrained life there. That kind of life is the best. Little Ye walked for a long time and finally smelled the strong fragrance of the food, heard the nging and crashing of pots and bowls. At the moment, Zhang Deshui told her, The kitchen is here. The kitchen was in the pce, but it wasnt an imperial kitchen. It was temporarily set for chefs to cook. It was said that the imperial kitchen was more than twice its size. Ye Xiaoxian sighed again, A kitchen in the pce could be bigger than half a city block. Zhang Deshui led Ye Xiaoxian in. The ingredients for today were ready. The bodies of sheep, pigs and cows were all cleaned up, and the chefs were here too. The chefs all looked sullen, perhaps because they had been tortured by the minister of the Ministry of Rites for a long time. They thought it must be another day in vain. But Zhang Deshui was very excited. As soon as he entered the kitchen, he said to them with a happy face, Bros, Ive found a savior for us today. With her, I promise that the minister will be satisfied with us and wont be picky anymore. Everyone looked at Zhang Deshui and found that there was only a woman beside him. Little Ye dressed up for this day. Her hair was rolled up and she was in a maids clothes. It was convenient for her to work in this way. Otherwise, the big sleeves of those beautiful clothes would annoy her to death. So, the chefs regarded her as Zhang Deshuis attendant. Savior? They didnt see any Savior. Zhang Deshui saw that everyone was looking towards his back, but not Little Ye. He couldnt help but cry, Where are you looking at? Huh? This person next to me is the savior. She can roast sheep, roast pigs, and the meat is far more delicious than us old fellows. Everyone looked shocked. They started to look Little Ye up and down. Little Ye looked quite young, 20-odd years old at most. In addition, her outfit made her delicate, but she didnt look like a cook at all. Each chef looked warmly shiny and greasy with a potbelly. But look at Little Ye. She was quite skinny. Chapter 315 - Becoming the Head Chef

315. Bing the Head Chef

Trantor: ChowvanLee It seemed that nobody believed him, so Zhang Deshui pointed to Little Ye and said, You guys dont believe me, do you? You dont believe me... fine, Ill let her roast anothermb for you. Someone said, There is no point even if we like it. We have to satisfy the minister. Someone elseughed, Zhang Deshui, are you grasping at straws? You even find such a little brother... No, shes a little girl, right? Zhang Deshui, we old fellows dont have the time to fool around with you. Youre from State Preceptors residence. Even if your dish cannot satisfy the minister, the State Preceptor will save your life. But we are not like you. If we cant do it well, who will save us then? ... Everyone was muttering, but no one believed Zhang Deshui. Zhang Deshui didnt want to persuade them anymore. He said, Forget it! You roast your meat, and we roast ours. Lets see whose final product is more attractive! Zhang Deshui took Little Ye to his stove, then called a few chefs who were responsible for assisting him. He said to them, Today, we will listen to Little Ye. We shall do whatever were asked to. The few chefs suspected that Zhang Deshui was trying any method at any crisis when they heard that he would listen to Little Ye. We have to listen to such a little girl? Or is it because the minister is pushing so hard that he just give up? s, since we have been training every day, just listen to Zhang Deshui. If he wants us to listen to the little girl, then listen to the little girl. Ye Xiaoxian didnt say a word. She had known their reaction. The people here were older than her, otherwise they wouldnt be able to be imperial chefs. The older people liked to put on airs in front of the younger generation and act like masters. As a saying goes, You can never teach an old dog new tricks. It doesnt matter, her dishes would talk. She was very strict about cooking. Once she started working, she would easily forget about where she was. She started to distribute tasks to everyone in an orderly manner. Some were responsible for picking up the ingredients, some for pickling the meat, and others for starting a fire stove and controlling the fire. Everything was meticulously arranged. These chefs saw that Little Ye looked quite simr to the kitchen. Their doubt on Zhang Deshui lessened. Anyway, there was nothing else they could do, what if it really worked? Themb was roasted for the whole afternoon and the pork was the same. The requirements for beef and dog meat were not as high as the former ones, as they had to be reprocessed after being boiled. Chicken would be boiled and then mixed with sauces. After the six domestic animals were ready, the chefs were sweating profusely. They put their own dishes on the table carefully, and then they were so tired that theyy on the ground to rest while wiping their sweat. Obviously, they would observe what other people had made. Zhang Deshui and Ye Xiaoxians dishes attracted the most attention. They wanted to see what kind of dishes Zhang Deshui and Little Ye could make. Zhang Deshui put their dishes on the table with assistants. Ye Xiaoxian was tired. She found a long bench and wiped her sweat while sitting on it. It was extremely hard to be a chef, especially for a woman. It was summer and Ye Xiaoxian was not in a modern kitchen, so couldnt enjoy the coolness brought by the air conditioner. Even if the kitchen was well ventted, it was still as hot as a stove. Ye Xiaoxian only expected that the minister would be here soon so that she could leave the pce as soon as possible. ... At dusk, the minister finally arrived. The minister, in his forties, looked quite young. He looked very serious with a ck beard. When he came in, his expression was not very good. When the chefs saw him, they could not help but stand up respectfully. Little Ye saw that everyone stood up, so she could only stand up and look at the minister. Are you done? Are there any improvementspared with what you made yesterday? The minister asked. Someone boldly said, Well, yes... I added some spices. Another person said, I cooked it once before I roasted it. When I roasted it, there was oil flowing out, as if it had been cooked twice. ... Everyone demonstrated the improvements they had made, which were quite useless. Its all nonsense! The minister got angry. In the end, he looked towards Zhang Deshui, whoughed, Minister, we added spices, changed the process, even changed the head chef. Im not the head chef today, thisdy is. The minister looked at Ye Xiaoxian and cursed, Nonsense, its all nonsense! Zhang Deshui hurriedly exined, Minister, this is Madam Xiao. She used to live in the tribe for two or three years. She cooked all themb and beef in the tribe. Only then did the minister look closely at Ye Xiaoxian. Zhang Deshui added, She is General Xiao Baoshans wife. Oh? The minister looked at Ye Xiaoxian with curiosity. Ye Xiaoxian bowed but didnt say anything. Women of this era, especially women with status, were rather silent. Besides, Ye Xiaoxian was afraid she would say something wrong. Anyway, whether her dish was delicious or not, the minister would know after a taste. Zhang Deshui hurriedly cut a small piece of meat from amb leg, handed it in a te to the minister, and then respectfully said, Minister, please have a try. Its very delicious. State Preceptor had tasted itst night, and the people of State Preceptors mansion all praised her for her good cooking skills. The minister took a piece of meat into his mouth with a half-believing expression. Unexpectedly, once the roastmb entered his mouth, his eyes instantly lit up. Cest bon! Many years ago, when the minister was wandering around all over the world, he had eaten roastmb of this vor. He never expected that he would eat it again in the pce. It was exactly the same taste, the taste from memory. One piece of meat wasnt enough for the minister, so he ate the second, the third... The people next to him believed that the food Little Ye made was really good when they saw the minister had eaten so much and looked very satisfied. The minister was a serious person, but now his mouth was covered with meat oil and he even didnt spare a second to wipe it off. Is it really that good? The chefs also wanted to have a taste. The minister ate seven or eight pieces of roastmb in a row, then went to the roast pork and tasted a piece. He looked surprised, too, and went on eating the roast pork. The minister didnt take out the handkerchief to wipe his mouth until he was satisfied. He asked Ye Xiaoxian, Where did you learn this skill? Little Ye thought for a while and made up, I met amoner chef a few years ago. He taught me. s, she wouldnt tell the minister that she had studied in the New Oriental cooking ss in modern times for a long time, and then she had studied it herself for a long time before she could be an expert. The minister was very satisfied with her answer. Ive tasted this before. Thatmoner chef must be your master, right? Little Ye said, My master never tells me his name. Then it must be him. When I ate this dish at that time, he told me that he was a wanderer and wouldnt settle down in a fixed ce. I believe you must be his apprentice. I didnt expect that he would pass on his skills to a woman. However, he obviously has his reasons for doing this. In short, as long as his skills can be passed down, thats great. Ye Xiaoxian thought this minister was so imaginative and had made up a good story. If there really was such a person, he was probably a time-traveller like her. However, she probably had no chance to meet him. The minister finished his presentation, and decided on the spot that Little Ye would be in charge of the roastmb and roast pork on the day of the ceremony. He had no intention to try the dishes made by other chefs. The chefs didnt buy this arrangement. This little girl was so young that they doubted if the dishes she cooked would be so delicious. The minister noticed their dissatisfaction, so he said, You dont believe me? Alright, then you should try it too. Have a try andpare what she made with what youve roasted! You can call yourself an imperial chef? How embarrassing! When the chefs got the permission, they rushed to try the roast meat. Even though different people favored different tastes, no one disliked Little Yes roast meat. Only then did everyone realize that Zhang Deshui wasnt fooling around, and Little Ye was an expert. And they remembered that Zhang Deshui said that Ye Xiaoxian was Xiao Baoshans wife. They heard that Xiao Baoshan married a vige woman, but they didnt expect this vige woman to be so good at cooking. Perhaps, she could only make roastmb and roast pork, and couldnt cook any other kinds of dishes. After all, these were the only ingredients she could find in the vige. Since the minister had confirmed Ye Xiaoxian to be the head chef who made roast pork and roastmb, he stopped wasting his time with other chefs. He asked other chefs to leave first, leaving only Little Ye and Zhang Deshui. Because he had some details to discuss with Little Ye. The minister asked Little Ye, Madam Xiao, will youe on the day of the ceremony? Or... are you going to pass on the cooking skills to Zhang Deshui and he will roast the meat for the ceremony? When the minister was speaking, Zhang Deshui stared at Little Ye. He wished that Little Ye would immediately pass on her cooking skills to him. Although he knew the process today, he still couldnt grasp some details. He needed Little Yes guidance. Otherwise, he couldnt make the same vored meat, and he still couldnt survive in the end. Unexpectedly, Little Ye said, This cooking skill belongs to my master. Without his permission, how can I pass it on to others? Thankfully, the minister mentioned her so-called master before, or else she wouldnt have had an excuse to refuse him. The minister epted her excuse, so he said, Thats right, it has to be agreed by your master. However, if Madam Xiao cant pass it on to Zhang Deshui, then you have to personally roast the meat. Can you handle it that day? Little Ye said, As long as I have enough assistants, I can do it. The minister decided, Well, then on the day of the ceremony, Madam Xiao will be the head chef. At that time, all the imperial chefs in the pce will be at your service. ... The news about Ye Xiaoxian spread throughout the pce. She be popr inside and outside the pce. The minister of the Ministry of Rites appointed Ye Xiaoxian as the head chef of the ceremony and then told this message to the Empress. The Empress was half-doubted if Ye Xiaoxian waspetent, but she heard that the minister had been dissatisfied with the dishes for a long time. Now that he finally found a chef he liked, so the Empress agreed. Chapter 316 - They All Stared at Little Ye

316. They All Stared at Little Ye

Trantor: Some of the ministers outside the pce were very surprised to hear that the head chef was Xiao Baoshans wife. They had always heard that Xiao Baoshan had gone back to the vige to marry a vige woman after the defeat a few years ago. They didnt expect this vige woman to cook so well that she could even outshine the imperial chefs! State Preceptor couldnt say anything about it. Since it was rted to the ceremony, there was no reason for him not to let Little Ye go. Even if he still kept Little Ye at his ce, he still had to let Little Ye leave as she was appointed as the head chef of the ceremony. However, he still told Wan Shijie to keep an eye on Little Ye. Also, he ordered Jin Xiaoyu to be kept at his residence as a hostage. ...... Xiao Baoshan now lived in Qian Qis former residence. After all, he was now Qian Qis subordinate. Since his official position was not as high as before, he didnt need to go to court. He had nothing to do in the capital unless he was really needed. He also heard about Little Ye bing the head chef. Although Xiao Baoshan had known that Little Ye was good at cooking, he never thought that her cooking skill could reach such an extent. He was a rough man and didnt have high requirements for food as long as he could be well-fed. A few years ago, when he was a general, he also entered the pce and ate at a royal banquet. He felt that it was just a litttle more delicious than the usual food. Only now did he know that Little Yes cooking skills were top-notch. He also heard that Little Ye was going to be the head chef of the ceremony. He also thought about secretly snatching Little Ye away while she left the State Preceptors residence. However, he was not confident enough to save Little Ye from the State Preceptor residence, not to mention from the royal pce. Whats more, he was not qualified to participate in the ceremony with his current position. Moreover, he knew that State Preceptor was guarding against him and would definitely keep Jin Xiaoyu in his residence. Once Little Ye escaped, Jin Xiaoyu would definitely lose her life. He didnt want to save ones life but at the cost of anothers. He could only wait anxiously every day. ...... The ceremony finally began. The day before the ceremony, Little Ye and Zhang Deshui entered the pce to prepare and check the ingredients. Thest time she entered the pce, Little Ye was surprised by therge number of servants in the pce. She was more shocked when she came to the pce this time. Arge group of imperial physicians were sent only to check the ingredients. They would carefully examine even a single piece of green onion in case there was poison on it. Thinking about some movies and TV dramas she had watched before, Little Ye thought that it was really dangerous to live in the pce. It was so dangerous for assassins to poison the food. If they were caught, their whole family would be killed. In addition to the imperial physicians, there were also maids and eunuchs who came to help wash vegetables and clean up. Ye Xiaoxian could tell they were trained in a strict way, as they could perform neat and unified movements even they worked inrge number. Whether they came or left, their steps were in unison. At first, Ye Xiaoxian worried that she would be overwhelmed by her work, but she didnt expect that she only needed to give instructions. Her assistants would quicklyplete the task ording to her instructions. Therefore, she was less tired than thest time before. She didnt have to do everything personally. On the first day, she had to make the seasoning, marinate the meat, and then roast them at midnight. In order to ensure the freshness of the ingredients, she could not mix the roastmb and pork with seasonings immediately. She should roast them after the ceremony. Therefore, Little Ye didnt need to go out that night. She stayed in the pce. ...... An old maid who was from the Empresss pce came to arrange amodation for Little Ye. When the old maid came to the kitchen to pick up Little Ye, she did not say anything. She only took Little Ye to the harem. Little Ye had to stay in a chamber room, which was the same as where the maids lived. After all, Little Ye was not the real head chef. She was just a temporary helping hand. It was good enough for her as she could live in the harem. However, Little Ye received better service than others. She could live in a single room, and the old maid arranged for two maids to serve her. It was midnight and everyone was tired and sleepy, so was the old maid. She said to Little Ye while yawning, If you need anything, just name it. Also, the harem is where the concubines live. Please dont wander around. If you offend an imperial concubine, you will be punished. Little Ye said, Ive been busy for a whole day. Moreover, its midnight. Im too tired to wander around. I just want a bucket of water to take a bath. The old maid asked the two maids there to prepare water for Little Ye. Little Ye was too sleepy. When she was soaked in warm water, she almost fell asleep. The two maids who were serving her were also sleepy. Later, one of them felt that something was wrong. Opening her eyes, she saw Little Ye sleeping in the bucket. She quickly woke Little Ye up, and helped her get dressed. Little Ye fell asleep while lying on her stomach after she got dressed. The next day, the two maids woke Little Ye up. After a night of rest, they looked very energetic. Since Little Ye looked young, they designed Little Yes hair into the same style of a young girl. There were also prepared clothes for Little Ye to change. When Little Ye finished washing and changing clothes, the two maids suddenly froze and both looked at her in surprise. Little Ye was confused and quickly asked, Why are you looking at me? You look like... One of the maids spoke but was interrupted by the other one. Stop! Its rude to say that... The maid had to shut up. A momentter, the old maid came as well. The moment she saw Little Ye, she was also stunned for a while. You... She couldnt say anything. She came to pick Little Ye uptest night with antern, so she didnt take a closer look at Little Ye. Now Little Ye had cleaned her up and changed the clothes, the old maid was surprised to see her looked like this. Little Ye actually looked like... the Empress Dowager? However, the people in the pce were cautious and didnt dare to speak in front of Little Ye, so the old maid also stopped talking. Feeling that they were so boring, Little Ye was unwilling to ask them. She took a close look at the mirror to make sure that there were no pox on her face and her makeup was fine, then she felt relieved. With the guidance of the old maid, she walked towards the imperial kitchen. On the way out, she bumped into some of the concubines sedan chairs. As soon as she saw them, the old maid quickly pulled Little Ye to one side and bent down. They could only move on after the concubines sedans had passed. Little Ye didnt feel tired when she was busy in the kitchen, but now she was exhausted by bending time and time again. After walking forward for a while, Little Ye suddenly heard someone call her, Little Ye? Turning around, she caught sight of Li Chengru. It also surprised Li Chengru to see Little Ye. The old maid recognized Li Chengru and wanted to pull Little Ye down to bow. Li Chengru stopped her, You dont have to be that polite. I just want to talk to Little Ye. The old maid hesitated for a moment. Li Chengru asked, Shes my friend. Is it inappropriate for me to chat with her? The old maid had no choice but to step aside, but she still stared at them vigntly and wanted to eavesdrop their conversation. Li Chengru didnt care about the old maid and just stared at Little Ye. Little Ye asked, Whats wrong? I noticed that all of you have been staring at me. Do I have something on my face? Li Chengru did not say frankly as the old maid was alongside him. He only said, No, I just think you seem to have changed a lot. Perhaps it is because of this hairstyle and clothes. Have I be uglier, or more beautiful? Ye Xiaoxian joked. Of course you have be more beautiful. When Li Chengru first met Little Ye, she was an ordinary woman who was running a small restaurant in the county and was badly dressed. Later on, she was often on her way to seek refuge, so she could only wear dirty clothes. When she reached Tianshan tribe, she was dressed as a local. Now she arrived at the capital city, she changed a lot just because she dressed up a little. In the past, Li Chengru vaguely felt that Little Ye looked like a certain person but couldnt remember. When he saw her dressing now, he finally knew the answer. However, that person was too powerful. Ordinary people dared not discuss her in public. Ye Xiaoxian thought that she must be dressed properly since Li Chengru praised her. She was really afraid that she would offend someone in the pce if she wore the wrong clothes. The Seventh King, why are you in the pce? Isnt this the harem? How did youe in? Li Chengru smiled and said, My mother is still in the pce. Im here to visit her, so naturally I can enter the pce. Oh, Li Chengrus mother should be the a Queen Dowager now. Li Chengru then asked, I heard that you are appointed as the head chef of the ceremony. That is great. I havent eaten your food for a long time. Tonights dinner must be delicious. Ye Xiaoxian smiled embarrassedly, Im d you like it. I heard that the people in the pce are picky eaters. They just like delicious food. The food you made is exactly delicious. Ye Xiaoxian smiled again. Li Chengru asked, How are you recently? General Xiao always wants to see you, but he cant. Very good, tell him not to worry about me. I have received good service in State Preceptors residence, Ye Xiaoxian said seriously. Alright, Ill pass your words to him after I see him. Looking at Li Chengru again, Ye Xiaoxian said, I want him not to worry about me, which also means I want him not to care about me when he makes decisions. He should do what he thinks is right without the restraint of me. If he does something to be ashamed of because of me, I will definately hate him. I do not want to be a sinner like this! Li Chengru looked at Ye Xiaoxian withplicated expression on his face. After a while, he said, Okay, I will also tell him your words. Ye Xiaoxian continued, Its gettingte. I should go to work. There are still a lot of things waiting for me to do in the kitchen. The ceremony is about to begin. Hurry up and prepare. By the way, if you have food that you cant finish tonight, you can bring some to Baoshan so that he can taste it. Li Chengru nodded. Little Ye turned to leave and walked to the kitchen with the old maid. Li Chengru quickly left as well to avoid doing anything that could arouse suspicion. Chapter 317 - The Empress Met Little Ye

317. The Empress Met Little Ye

Trantor: ChowvanLee The ceremony was about to begin. The Emperor and his concubines and the ministers were all present. Everyone stood in their positions and looked solemn. The six domestic animals for worship were put on the tform, very solemn and grand. The Department of Astronomy arranged for some wizards to do the sacred ritual, where the wizards were singing and dancing. In short, it was a ceremony to pray for the peace of the nation. The sun was so hot that everyone was sweating, but no one dared to move. Ye Xiaoxian was busy in the kitchen room. After the ceremony, there was a banquet for the imperial family and the ministers. In addition to the meat for the worship, chefs needed to prepare little dishes and desserts. Obviously, these would be made by other chefs. She was only in charge of the meat used for worship. ... The ceremonysted until the afternoon. Everyone standing outside was drowsy and sweating. When the ceremony was over, they went back to their amodation respectively, took a bath and prepared for the banquet in the evening. When the Empress returned to her ce, she came across the old maid who had been sent out to watch Little Ye. The Empress summoned her over and asked, Was everything going wellst night? That youngdy didnt make any trouble? And then the Empress regretted to ask. Ye Xiaoxian is an ordinary woman, what kind of tricks could she y? Im just finishing the task of the Empress Dowager, otherwise I wouldnt care about her at all. the Empress thought inwardly. The old maid knelt down and replied, Everything was all right. She came back for sleep in the middle of the night and went to the kitchen again this morning, but... But what? The Empress asked. The Empress became impatient when she saw the old maid mumbling. Hurry up and tell me. I have to shower and get dressed after this. I have no time wasting in this. The old maid said, The original surname of Madam Xiao is Ye. I think she looks like... like the Empress Dowager. Like the Empress Dowager? The Empress was surprised. There were plenty of maids and concubines in the pce. Most of them came from all over the country. asionally, people could find one resembled another. It was quite normal. When thete Emperor was alive, he loved his Empress very much. So after thete Empresss decease, he specifically searched for women who looked like the Empress. Otherwise, the current Empress Dowager would not be so favored at that time. However, few people looked like Empress Dowager. People might be able to find one or two all over the country. The current Empress Dowager had been the number one beauty in the country when she was young. Despite her current old age now, her charm still remained. If Madam Xiao looks like the Empress Dowager, does it mean that she is a top beauty? Do you mean that Madam Xiao is very pretty? The Empress asked again. The old maid replied, Her look is in. I cantpare her with the beauty of Empress Dowager. But there is indeed some simrity between the Empress Dowagers eyes and hers. Your Majesty, not only do I think they look simr, but also the two maids who served herst night feels the same. Oh right, there is one more... the Seventh King. The Seventh King? The Empress looked a little out of control. She added, The Seventh King have also entered the pce? He said that he was here to visit his mother. He chatted a little while with Madam Xiao. He looked quite familiar with her. He seemed a little surprised when he saw Madam Xiao today. Maybe he hadnt connected Madam Xiao with the Empress Dowager before, but today he saw her, he found their resemnce. The Empress smiled. It cant be possible. They didnt look like each other before, but now do? Hearing the Empresss words, the old maid didnt dare continue. So she said, Its possible... I misjudged him. The Seventh King didnt mean that. The Empresss face changed again when the old maid mentioned the Seventh King. The Empress said, How about this? Before the banquet, you go and see if Madam Xiao is in the kitchen. If so, call her to my ce and let me see what she looks like. Yes, Your Majesty! The old maid said and went to deliver the order. ... The banquet was about to start and Little Ye was so busy at the kitchen. It wasnt that she got a ton of things to do, but everyone was nervous. It seemed that they were about to lose their heads if anything went wrong, so she was nervous, too. Therefore, she had to be cautious. It wasnt until tes of roastmb and roast pork were carried out that she let out a sigh of relief. After the banquet started, Little Ye had her dinner with the chefs in the backyard. She could leave the pce after finishing her dinner. After a busy day, she was sweaty. She was not in a good appetite and only ate some snacks and desserts. She was about to leave the pce with Zhang Deshui when the old maid she sawst night came to her again. The old maid saw Little Ye, and she said in a hurry, Thank God, you are still here. Are you not in a hurry to leave the pce now? Ye Xiaoxian asked, Ive got time. Whats wrong? The Empress wants to see you. Follow me. It wont be long. The old maid answered. Ye Xiaoxian was surprised. The Empress wants to see me? What is it? Little Ye asked. She just wants to meet you. Its not a big deal, the old maid said tly. Ye Xiaoxian wiped off the sweat on her forehead. Im all sweaty. It wont be rude to see the Empress in this way, will it? Its fine, please follow me. The old maid looked very demanding because it was the Empresss order. Ye Xiaoxian could only let Zhang Deshui wait for a while and then followed the old maid. The night fell and Ye Xiaoxian followed the old maid through the pce. Even though she had already walked this path once in the morning, she really couldnt figure out when she should turn left, and when to turn right, or which pce was which. She really wanted to ask the old maid how to distinguish these paths. However, the old maid walked very quickly, obviously in a hurry. Finally, they reached the outer wall of a pce and the old maid stopped. Ye Xiaoxian asked her, Why do you stop here? The old maid said, You wait here. Not everyone can enter the Empresss pce. Ye Xiaoxian thought, Isnt the Empress wanting to see me? Why does she forbid me from entering her pce? So I have to wait on the way? Sure enough, she waited for about a quarter before a sedan appeared in front of her. The old maid pulled Little Ye down and ordered her, Dont move! Ye Xiaoxian could only kneel down. Even though she was Xiao Baoshans wife and was temporarily serving as a head chef, everyone knew that Xiao Baoshan was a pawn in the imperial familys game. And as his wife, she was just like a prisoner. And in this pce, she was even nothing. When the Empresss sedan approached, the old maid shouted, Your Majesty! Ye Xiaoxian was about to raise her head when the old maid stopped her. She said to the Empress, Your Majesty, I brought her here. After a while, Ye Xiaoxian heard the Empresss superior voice, Stand up, let me look at you. Ye Xiaoxian looked towards the old maid. She didnt know what she should do. She dared not move until the old maid asked her to. The old maid said to Ye Xiaoxian, The Empress asks you to stand up. Come on, stand up! ... Ye Xiaoxian stood up. Thepany of the Empress were carryingnterns with them. After Ye Xiaoxian stood up and looked at the Empress, a maid lifted antern to light up her face. Her vision was blurred and she vaguely saw ady dressed in luxurious clothes sitting on a sedan. The gold ornaments on her head and body shimmered under the light ofnterns. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt see clearly what the Empress looked like, but the Empress saw Ye Xiaoxians face clearly. Ye Xiaoxian felt very ufortable shone by thentern, so her face was slightly tilted. But the Empress saw her clearly. Ye Xiaoxian did look like the Empress Dowager. Although she wasnt as good-looking as the Empress Dowager, she was young and had the simr charm of the Empress Dowager. After seeing Ye Xiaoxians face clearly, the Empress did not say anything to Ye Xiaoxian. She only told the eunuch in front of her, Lets go! After thentern in front of Ye Xiaoxian was moved away, her vision was still slightly blurred. What happened just now? First, she was shone by antern, then the Empress left without saying a word. Ye Xiaoxian felt like she was being looked down upon and stepped on under the mud. But then, she thought to herself that ever since she transmigrated, she had been a farmer. She had been living in small county cities, but now she was in the capital city and could even meet the Empress. When she went back and let Xiao Tieshu and Xiao Tongshu know what she had seen, they must be so jealous. Madam Xiao, its gettingte. If you have got things to do, then you can leave the pce now! The old maid said politely to Little Ye. Ye Xiaoxian said, Okay, its time to leave! At the same time, she let out a long sigh. ... It was a grand and splendid banquet. The lights in the pce were shining brightly. The royal family were sitting in the center front of the room, while the ministers were sitting aside. When Li Chengkun raised his ss and announced that the banquet officially started, everyone also raised their sses. Li Chengkun was very satisfied with this scene. He sat in the most honorable seat with people worshipping him below. Every time he saw such a scene, he felt that the Great Qi Dynasty was prosperous and the greatestpared to other countries. The Empress sat next to Li Chengkun and was very satisfied with the scene, too. At this moment, she was the Mother of the Nation and everyone had to address her as the Empress. She felt that her life was meaningful. However, there was a trace of regret on her face when she saw Li Chengru sitting below. However, Li Chengru never looked at her back in her eyes. The dishes came up one after another. Of course, the first dish toe up were roastmb and roast pork. The servants cut the roastmb and the roast pork and distributed them into everyones te, then respectfully filled everyones ss, everything in good order. Then Li Chengkun took the lead in eating the first bite. Normally, people didnt care about the dishes on pce banquets. After all, they didnt intend to get filled on the banquet. They just needed to have a taste of the dish. After all, no one dared to swallow up on pce banquets. However, after Li Chengkun took the first bite, he looked satisfied. He couldnt help but praise, This roastmb is really delicious, better than anymb in previous years. The Ministry of Rites has done a great job this time. Someone sent Li Chengkuns words to the minister of the Ministry of Rites, and he was overjoyed. Others heard Li Chengkuns praise about the roastmb, and they tried it, too. Chapter 318 - Childhood Sweethearts

318. Childhood Sweethearts

Trantor: ChowvanLee After the ministers and the generals tasted the roastmb, they praised its taste in unison. Its very delicious! Before this, they heard that the minister of the Ministry of Rites was bold in using neers. He had summoned Xiao Baoshans wife into the pce as the head chef and everyone was looking forward to seeing what would happen. They wanted to know if the Ministry of Rites would be making a joke or could surprise them. If the minister of the Ministry of Rites was making the wrong decision, he would definitely be fired. If he could satisfy the diners, then it would be obvious that Xiao Baoshans wife was really good at roasting meat. As everyone picked up their chopsticks, whispers were like little hissing fires at the banquet. The people who were attending the banquet as a routine actually looked at each other and whispered, This roastedmb is really good. This skin is so crisp, and there are sesame seeds on it. Its very tasty. It doesnt have the stink of sheep either. Thats something. Last years meat was too chewy. I cant even swallow it, ... Everyone praised thembs delicacy. Then they turned to roast pork, which got the samements. ]Next was beef. The beef was cut and made in boiling water. It was a pity that there were very few chili peppers in the capital city, so it was not cooked in a spicy way. But with the addition of ginger and pepper, its taste was not inferior to ordinary boiled beef with chili. The next dish was the in boiled chicken. This time, the chicken was much crisper than before. Dog meat was not on the table. Due to custom, dog meat was a taboo for some ministers, but if anyone wanted to eat dog meat, they could let eunuchs add it to them. At the banquet, everyone was having the meat happily and the atmosphere was much better than before. Seeing that everyone was eating meat, Li Chengkun felt a little deste, but then he had second thoughts. I invite them to dinner just to let them enjoy themselves. Its alright as long as they like it. Besides, he liked the meat, too, and ate a lot unknowingly. For a moment, the smell of meat floated everywhere. ... What Li Chengkun and others never expected was that while they were enjoying delicious food and liquor, Yan Ziyan in the north had lost the battle on this day. This time, Yan Ziyan and his army were badly injured. The Northern Qing Army suddenly attacked and destroyed a battalion of men. They almost lost the city gate. They managed to guard their base in the end, but had massive casualties. That night, Yan Ziyan sent a letter to the capital city and asked the Emperor to send another troop to assist them. ... At the end of the banquet, the ministers stroked their bulging bellies and exited the pce. After this banquet, they kept talking about the meat and were interested in Ye Xiaoxian. Xiao Baoshans wife is pretty good at cooking. She can actually make roastmb and roast pork so delicious. Other dishes are good, too. Agree, Ive never eaten this much before. Is there an expert teaching her so that she could cook such delicious dishes? I heard from the minister of the Ministry of Rites that she does has a master. No wonder... Li Chengru and Li Chengyi also came out from the banquet. Li Chengru asked Li Chengyi to leave first. He had to wait a little longer. He just asked a eunuch to help pack some leftovers so that he could bring them back to Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan couldnt see Ye Xiaoxian, but he could temporarily relieve his lovesickness by eating Ye Xiaoxians food. Li Chengru followed the eunuch out of the ante-room, waiting for the eunuch under an apricot tree. And coincidentally or not, the Empresss sedan would pass by him. After the banquet, the Empress looked at Li Chengkun expectantly, hoping that Li Chengkun coulde to her pce or rest at her pce. But Li Chengkun wasnt going to do that at all. Once the banquet ended, he said that he was about to get drunk and wanted to go back to his pce. The Empress was disappointed and could only go back to her pce. She didnt expect to meet Li Chengru here. Li Chengru saw the Empress, too. He took a step back quietly to let the Empresss sedan pass first. The Empress stopped the sedan, then the maid helped her off. She greeted Li Chengru, Chengru, why are you here? Seeing that the Empress got off the sedan, Li Chengru bowed at her and answered, Empress, Im waiting for someone. She called him Chengru, but he called her Empress. The Empress smiled awkwardly and asked, Who are you waiting for? One eunuch, I ask him to pack some food for me and Ill bring it back to General Xiao. Are you very close to General Xiao? He is just an acquaintance. Li Chengru said tly. Then... what about Madam Xiao? The Empress asked again. Li Chengru frowned and continued, The Empress has asked too much. Please forgive me, I dont want to answer it. Then I wont ask again. the Empress added, Since youre taking food, I have a lot of snacks in my pce. You can take some back to General Xiao. They are... apricot cakes made by me when I was free. When the Empress mentioned Apricot Cake, she specifically observed Li Chengrus expression. However, Li Chengru was expressionless and rejected, Empress, that wont be necessary. I will be leaving soon. Very soon, the eunuch came over with a big food box. Li Chengru took it, first asked the eunuch to leave, then he bowed to the Empress and said, Empress, Im leaving first. The Empress smiled bitterly again before returning to her sedan. She felt a heart-piercing pain inside. Back then, when apricot flowers started to bloom, they were childhood sweethearts. She called him Brother Chengru and he called her Sister Apricot. She was two years older than him, so she always took care of him. When he knew about love, he told her he wanted to marry her as her husband. But in the end, she chose to marry Li Chengkun, who was a lot older than her. She told him it was because of her familys choice, but she didnt struggle before she ept that decision. He gave up and ever since then he just took her as his sister. Since his sister was married, he couldnt be sad for too long and what he could do was only to congratte her. Now that she was the Empress, he was certain that she was happy. He didnt want to mention their past at all. The Empress returned to her pce and the maids helped her take off her heavy essories before she changed into her nightgown. When she was in bed, she asked the personal maid who had been serving her all the time. Jinyi, do you think Im happy? The maid didnt know why the Empress asked her this question out of nowhere. She was startled. She thought she had done something wrong, so she knelt down right away and said, The Empress is definitely happy. Your Majesty... Why do you say that? The Empress saw the maids scared face; she couldnt help but shake head. She was noble, but no one would care about her from heart. Not to mention people who could speak the truth to her. Li Chengkun married her, made her the Empress because of her familys influence. But Li Chengkun had never liked her! He never liked any woman in the pce. His heart only belonged to politics and power. If she had chosen Li Chengru back then... The Empress didnt dare think about this question, but she couldnt help herself. The more lonely she was, the more she couldnt control herself to think about the beautiful past. The more she thought about it, the more she regretted her decision. Chapter 319

319. Baoshan Went out on His Expedition

Trantor: ChowvanLee Li Chengru got into the carriage, went to the generals residence with the food box, and handed it to Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan stayed in the residence for some carefree days. He practised martial arts, read books, and went to bed at the same time each day like when he was in the tribe. When Li Chengru arrived, Xiao Baoshan was ready to go to bed. However, when he heard that Li Chengru brought food made by Ye Xiaoxian, he put on clothes again to meet Li Chengru. Li Chengru said straightforwardly, Theres no need to prepare dishes for me. I got full in the pce. Tea is fine. Xiao Baoshan paused. What, no tea? Li Chengru asked. Xiao Baoshan asked, Only water, is it okay? Xiao Baoshan was a rough man, and now he lived alone. He always grabbed anything he had to drink. So how could he boil water for tea? Li Chengru said, I specifically bring you food. And thats how you treat me? Well, forget it, I can live with water. Xiao Baoshan went to get the kettle, but after touching the edge of the kettle, he asked Li Chengru, Cold water, is it okay? Li Chengru was speechless, Your residence look deserted, but you do have a servant, right? Xiao Baoshan said, Maybe they are busy. The generals residence is veryrge, but only a few servants were responsible for its cleanup. It was already hard enough for them to sweep the courtyard every day. Xiao Baoshan didnt want to add to theirbours. Li Chengru shook his head. Sure enough, people wont be nice to honest people. Alright, Ill drink cold water. Im used to living a hard life, so Im not picky. But the dishes I bring you might be cold. You might want to find someone to heat it up for you or you heat it up yourself? Xiao Baoshan asked, This is from Little Ye? Yes, I saw her in the morning. She asked me to bring some food back to you and she also got you some words. What? asked Xiao Baoshan. Li Chengru pointed to the food. You eat this first. Usually, Xiao Baoshan didnt eat anythingte at night, but since it was made by Little Ye, he picked up the meat right away. It was still warm. Although it was less tasty than when it was hot, the texture was still very good. Moreover, it tasted exactly like what he had eaten when the Tianshan tribe was eating meat to celebrate their festival. He hadnt seen Little Ye for a long time, and missed her so much. Now he could eat the meat she cooked, and he felt like she was by his side. He would think of how she looked when she was making roastmbs, how she was busy shuttling through the grass field, and how she came to his yurt, shyly. Is she fine? Xiao Baoshan asked Li Chengru while eating. She looks good, very energetic, Li Chengru took a sip of cool water and said seriously. She has some words to me. What is it? Li Chengru told him what Little Ye had said, She said that you dont need to worry about her. No matter what you do, you have to do it out of your own inner voice. If you do something outrageous for her, she wont forgive you. She doesnt want the future generations to curse her. In short, she doesnt want to be the source of cmity. Xiao Baoshan was silent. Li Chengru added, She also said that with food and liquor in State Preceptors residence, shes living afortable life now, so dont miss her too much. Xiao Baoshan ate silently. Seeing this, Li Chengru knew that he was not in good mood, so he patted Xiao Baoshan on the shoulder, Alright, the food is here, and you know her words, too. What to do next is your business. Xiao Baoshan did not send Li Chengru off. He just stared at the dish in front of him. ... The next day. Li Chengkun lost his temper in the pce. He didnt expect they had just held the ceremony yesterday with all the ministers and imperial concubines together to pray for the peace of the nation. And today, they got the news that his soldiers lost the battle in the north. Bastards, what bastards! Yan Ziyan is really useless. He actually lost at this time. Isnt this deliberately hitting me, Li Chengkun, in my own face? What made it even worse was that Li Chengkun had announced that they would take a day off today because the ceremonyst night ended toote. The ministers didnt have to go to the court in the morning, so he couldnt find anyone to discuss it now. Li Chengkun sent his personal eunuch for State Preceptor and let State Preceptor enter the pce as soon as possible. The eunuch went to the State Preceptors residence and told the gatekeeper that the Emperor was urgently calling State Preceptor. However, he only saw Mrs. State Preceptor. Mrs. State Preceptor asked, What? State Preceptor? State Preceptor didnte backst night. He didnte back? The eunuch was surprised. Suddenly, he patted his head. What a fool I am! I should have been more cautious and gone to Empress Dowagers pce first. Perhaps State Preceptor now is at Empress Dowagers pce because he drank too muchst night. The eunuch told Mrs. State Preceptor, State Preceptor may be too tiredst night and slept in another courtyard. I will go somewhere else to look for him. After the eunuch left, Mrs. State Preceptor couldnt help but scold, Ugh, what other courtyard? How could this old man live there for no reason? He must go to find THAT WOMAN in the pce. ... When the eunuch found State Preceptor, he was still in the bed with the Empress Dowager in his arms. He was annoyed when being suddenly woken up. Who was that bold toe to Empress Dowagers pce to disturb him? Then he learned that it was the Emperor who called him urgently. He got up right away, put on clothes and freshened up. He ran out in a hurry without having breakfast. When State Preceptor reached the imperial study, Li Chengkuns face was so dark with anger. Your Majesty! After paying respects, State Preceptor asked again, Your Majesty, what happened? Li Chengkun threw the document to State Preceptor. Take a look for yourself. State Preceptor scanned it through and asked, Yan Ziyan lost the battle? It was the first time Yan Ziyan had lost a battle. State Preceptor pondered for a moment and said, Your Majesty, it might not be a bad thing. We can send Xiao Baoshan to support Yan Ziyan and let Xiao Baoshan kill him. In this way, our aim will be achieved. This is what we have been nning. Li Chengkun asked, Have you persuaded Xiao Baoshan? His wife is in my residence. I dont need to talk with him, unless he wants to get rid of his wife. If he doesnt obey the order and doesnt kill Yan Ziyan, then we will kill his wife. If he wins the battle andes back, we will provide a position for him. As time goes by, people will forget his achievements and we can find a reason to kill him. In this way, no one can threaten us. Besides, if Xiao Baoshan wins, the Northern Qing Kingdom will suffer huge losses. They cantunch a battle again within five years. Li Chengkuns expression became less serious. In fact, he had the same thought. However, he didnt want to make this decision by himself. Since State Preceptor said these words, it would appear that these things were nned by State Preceptor. At that time, if things were revealed, then it would be State Preceptors fault. Otherwise, Li Chengkun wouldnt have indulged State Preceptor like that. Li Chengkun said, Alright, then Ill leave it to State Preceptor. How many soldiers and supplies will Xiao Baoshan need, and when will he start off? Its all at your disposal. State Preceptor said, Yes, I will go and arrange it now. At the same time, State Preceptor thought to himself, Well, you have to depend on me at the most crucial moment. Li Chengkun, you are too weak! ... State Preceptor came out of the pce and went straight to Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan wasnt friendly when he saw State Preceptor. After State Preceptor sat down, he poured a cup of water for him. State Preceptor was thirsty, took a sip but couldnt help but spit it out. Why is this hot water? You dont have tea in your generals residence? What about the servants here? Are they reluctant to make a pot of tea for you? State Preceptor scolded. Xiao Baoshan didnt say anything. State Preceptor looked around. There were indeed few people in the generals residence. He couldnt help butugh. Oh, this is too shabby. As a general, you are too poor. You dont have enough servants and maids. Its better for your wife not live in your residence. If she lives here, how could she endure such a poor life? General Xiao, I have to tell you one more time, you need to think about your wife. Xiao Baoshan said tly, State Preceptor, you dont need to worry about that! I have something to worry about right now. Last night, our soldiers in the north encountered a sneak attack from the Northern Qing Army and lost the battle. The Emperor hopes that you can support them and... you remember what I told youst time, right? State Preceptor paused so Xiao Baoshan said, Kill Yan Ziyan and his bandit soldiers. State Preceptor said with satisfaction, Its good that you remember it. Think about your wife. Shes a talented and good-looking woman. Beautiful, with outstanding cooking skills. Even though she didnt show up yesterday, her cooking skills were already well-known throughout the city. A woman like her is a perfect match for you. If she was gone, where are you going to find such a wife? Am I right? Xiao Baoshan smiled and asked, When can I lead my men to Heihe City? State Preceptor was a little surprised. He didnt expect Xiao Baoshan to agree so soon. He said, As soon as possible. Ill let the Ministry of War prepare supplies for you now. Go and muster your troops now. The sooner you go, the better. State Preceptor believed that Xiao Baoshan could win this battle. ... The news of Xiao Baoshan going out on his expedition again spread throughout the capital. This news like a spring breeze brought the people in the capital a hint offort. After all, apart from the crushing defeat a few years ago, Xiao Baoshan was an invincible general. People in the Northern Qing Kingdom were terrified of him. The North had been safe and sound because of him and Qians family. Also, it was long said that their nation had no generals, now there he was! Xiao Baoshan hade back. Two dayster, Xiao Baoshan set off with 70,000 soldiers. The troops passed through the street and then went out from the northern gate. When the onlookers saw Xiao Baoshan riding on a tall horse, they couldnt help but sigh. Wow, so tall! So energetic! Look at how powerful he is. This is a real general. I feel that as long as he takes action, he has won half. Right! ... Chapter 320 - She is a Good Woman

320. She is a Good Woman

Trantor: ChowvanLee However, some officials knew that Xiao Baoshan was forced this time. Ye Xiaoxian, Xiao Baoshans wife, showed her good cooking skills at the ceremony and she was well-known in the capital city. Many people heard that Mrs. Xiao, as a guest, was kept in State Preceptors residence at this moment. Of course, this was a euphemism. She actually was imprisoned. With Mrs. Xiao as a bargaining chip, Xiao Baoshan didnt have a choice. The ministers could only pray that Xiao Baoshan could win this battle and Mrs. Xiao coulde back to him as soon as possible. ... Li Chengyi and Li Chengru were sitting in a teahouse on the second floor, watching Xiao Baoshan leave the city. They were insiders and knew that Xiao Baoshan got an underlying task. Li Chengyi asked Li Chengru, What do you think, will Xiao Baoshan do it? Would he listen to State Preceptor? Li Chengru smiled, We have known Xiao Baoshan for a long time. We know what he is like. He agrees to fight, which means he is serious. After all, he once lost to the Northern Qing Army. He must win this battle. As for other... he knows what he should do. Li Chengyi sighed, Unfortunately, we cant rescue Little Ye. Li Chengru thought about how calm, optimistic, and confident Little Ye was on the day he met her. He smiled again, Little Ye, she is a good woman, the best woman Ive ever seen in my life. ... Little Ye, your husband Baoshan went to war, do you know that? Jin Xiaoyu walked around the State Preceptors residence and heard about this news. Ye Xiaoxian was stunned first, then she said, Oh, no wonder we received a lot of gold, silver, jewelry, and beautiful clothes in the past two days. It turns out that Baoshan is going to war. State Preceptor feels guilty andpensates us. Jin Xiaoyu asked anxiously, Why are you so calm? Dont you know that people will die in war? Arent you worried about him? Ye Xiaoxian looked at Jin Xiaoyu meaningfully. Jin Xiaoyu realized that she was being too impatient. It seemed like she was Xiao Baoshans wife. Jin Xiaoyu immediately exined, Ah, I dont mean anything by it. Because we are friends. If it were someone else, like Tarico and Jia Zhenbo, if they are going to go to the battlefield, I will be worried too. Ye Xiaoxian smiled again, Well, I know. I know that people would die on the battlefield and it would be very dangerous, but this is Baoshans wish. He is born for the battlefield. The person on the battlefield might be the real him. Ye Xiaoxian thought about Xiao Baoshans frowns, his perennial worries, and the nights when he read about military tactics in the yurt. She knew that he would return to the battlefield sooner orter. The tragedy many years ago left him with a heavy burden. He needed to go back to the battlefield to prove himself and avenge his deadrades. As his lover, shouldnt I support him unconditionally? Jin Xiaoyu added, But he has tasks on the battlefield. State Preceptor asked him... He wont! Before Jin Xiaoyu could finish her words, Ye Xiaoxian interrupted her, He wont do it. He couldnt do it before, and he wont do it now. And I wont let him do that. Jin Xiaoyu suddenly felt sad. So, you are sure youll die, right? Ye Xiaoxian looked at Jin Xiaoyu, I just didnt expect this will involve you. How about this, State Preceptor wont kill us for the time being, so we have to find an opportunity to send you out of this ce first. Jin Xiaoyu yelled immediately, Why save me? I am not a coward! I have been muddling along without an aim in my life. But when I meet you, I feel that my life bes valuable. You can sacrifice yourself for justice. Why cant I? Otherwise, why do I save Little Xun? Ye Xiaoxian listened and looked at Jin Xiaoyu, moved. Then she held Jin Xiaoyus hand and said, Xiaoyu, I have no siblings in my life, but I think you are like my sister. In this lifetime. I will treat you as my biological sister. Jin Xiaoyu asked, I dont want to be your elder sister. Did I look that old? Ye Xiaoxian smiled, Then Ill be your elder sister. You call me elder sister. Arent you taking advantage of me? This wont do and that wont do. How about this, you call me brother! Haha, how can you be like this... Another afternoon passed when they were messing around. ... In the North. When Xiao Baoshans troops arrived at Heihe City, Yan Ziyan and the rest were still discussing how they should treat Xiao Baoshan and his men. They wondered whether they should go to wee Xiao Baoshan or just wait in the city. They didnt know if Xiao Baoshan came to help or kill them. After all, they had just lost a battle. Even if Xiao Baoshan was here to help, if Xiao Baoshan won the next battle, then it would be Xiao Baoshans credit. The imperial court would not agree to the terms that Yan Ziyan had proposed before. Yan Ziyans army started to give their opinions one after another. Yan Ziyan said, Ive heard of Xiao Baoshan before. He has never lost a battle before except the one he fought against the Northern Qing Kingdom a few years ago. He was called a traitor then. The subordinates of Yan Ziyan also knew about Xiao Baoshan. They were unhappy about the imperial court, so they believed that there must be a conspiracy about Xiao Baoshans defeat. They supported Xiao Baoshan and did not believe that Xiao Baoshan was a traitor. Ive heard of General Xiao before. He is definitely not a traitor. Hmph, the current imperial court is juggling ck and white! But we have to be on guard. If Xiao Baoshan really has a connection with the Northern Qing Kingdom, then he will undoubtedly help them to do evil this time. I dont think so. If he is really a traitor, the Emperor and State Preceptor in the capital city would never let hime here... ... Anyway, opinions varied. In the end, they asked Yan Ziyan to be careful. Yan Ziyan was a broad-minded person. Otherwise, there wouldnt be so many people following him. He forced a smile, I think wed better go out to wee General Xiao. If he colluded with the Northern Qing Kingdom, with hisrge troops and our small army, we will die anyway. But if he is not, he must be our aid. No matter what, we have to fight hard. Soldiers felt that Yan Ziyans words made sense, so they went out of the city to wee Xiao Baoshan. ... Xiao Baoshan and the others waited outside the city for two hours and the city gate was still closed. The vicemander was angry. This Yan Ziyan just lost a battle. He knows that reinforcements are here but he doesnt immediately open the city gate. Is he looking down on us or he doesnt need reinforcements? Xiao Baoshan looked calm, Just wait, they will open the door. Other soldiers were also a little annoyed. They all felt that Yan Ziyan really crossed the line and did not put them in their eyes. After a long time, the city gate finally opened. To their surprise, at least a hundred people came to wee them. The leader of the group rode in front of Xiao Baoshan and apologized, You are General Xiao Baoshan? I have been looking forward to meeting you for a long time. Please forgive me for noting here early. Xiao Baoshan said tly, Its not a big deal. I was held up just now, and opened the city gatete. Have you been waiting for a long time? The vicemander was about to speak when Xiao Baoshan stopped him. Xiao Baoshan said, Its not too long. Xiao Baoshan knew very well that although Yan Ziyan and his army had lost, they still were on the alert about Xiao Baoshan. They hoped that the imperial court sent reinforcements to support them, but they wished it was an ordinary army but not General Xiao Baoshan. They had two reasons. Firstly, Xiao Baoshan was once questioned as a traitor. If he was a traitor, he would definitely cooperate with the Northern Qing Kingdom and kill Yan Ziyan. Secondly, if Xiao Baoshan was not a traitor, then he was very likely to take the credit of Yan Ziyan. If so, Yan Ziyan had no reason to guard Heihe City and Linglong City. Therefore, they had to discuss first and then opened the city gate. Eventually, Yan Ziyan opened the city gate, which meant that although he had a little grudge towards Xiao Baoshan, he could tolerate him no matter which way he chose. Yan Ziyan and his soldiers were not serious enough when they first met Xiao Baoshan, but Xiao Baoshan looked like he didnt care at all. And, as Xiao Baoshan looked strong and reliable, it made Yan Ziyan favored Xiao Baoshan a little. General Xiao, the ce has been cleared for you. You can set up your camps in the city now. Xiao Baoshan then led his subordinates into the city. ... On the same day, Xiao Baoshan and Yan Ziyan discussed the recent battles in a camp. Including how they fought each battle and why they lost thest battle. Yan Ziyans soldiers were worried that Xiao Baoshan would hurt him, so they even sent a few people into the camp to protect Yan Ziyan, and Wang Meng was one of them. However, Xiao Baoshan didnt care at all. Apart from discussing tactics and their situation on the battlefield, he didnt ask anything else. Yan Ziyan and his soldiers used to be bandits. They were afraid that people from the imperial court would have a bias towards them, such as asking them how they got together, how their life was like in the mountains before the war. But Xiao Baoshan did not ask anything. He treated Yan Ziyan and the others kindly and equally. Xiao Baoshan also told Yan Ziyan his opinions about the reason for the defeat that night. Yan Ziyan and the rest also agreed with him. Wang Meng and other soldiers were no longer standing on the side and participated in the discussion. Xiao Baoshan was kind to Wang Meng and the rest like the way he treated Yan Ziyan. He answered every question they asked with patience, so the soldiers had a good impression about him. When they finished discussing tactics and came out of the camp, Wang Meng and the rest had already called him Big Brother Xiao. ... Yan Ziyans army suffered a great loss that night, so did the Northern Qing Army. Therefore, the Northern Qing Army also needed to make some adjustments and asked for reinforcements, too. Xiao Baoshan and his army arrived first. On the second day, they gave the Northern Qing Army a surprise attack. The Northern Qing Army was seriously injured again and was almost destroyed. Chapter 321

321. The Greedy Mrs. State Preceptor

Trantor: ChowvanLee After this battle, Yan Ziyan and the rest were genuinely convinced by Xiao Baoshans talent. They believed that he was not a traitor and really wanted to work for the Great Qi Dynasty. The Northern Qing Kingdom was defeated again. They heard that Xiao Baoshan was here. Their first reaction was that Xiao Baoshan was once their defeated opponent but then they remembered that Xiao Baoshan was once a warlord. The Northern Qing Army couldnt look down on him and sent someone called Jing Feng. That year, Xiao Baoshan was defeated by Jing Feng. Jing Feng, about the same age as Xiao Baoshan, was also a General with many military sesses. He was good at military tactics and psychological tricks. After Jing Feng arrived, he sent a small group of soldiers to shout in front of the city gate, Xiao Baoshan, your brother Jing Feng is here to ask you. Do you remember him? Do you remember that crushing defeat back then? Someone reported this to Xiao Baoshan. Xiao Baoshan clenched his fists, but he had no response. He only said, Let them shout, nobody shall move without my order. Xiao Baoshan didnte out and didnt respond, so Jing Feng let them change the words, Xiao Baoshan, have you forgotten our agreement? We were a team, but just because you didnt be the emperors son-inw of our country, you wouldnt recognize this? If you surrender now, you can still be the emperors son-inw. This was a provocation. The Northern Qing Kingdom wanted to provoke Xiao Baoshan by repeating the rumor that Xiao Baoshan had been wrongly used as a traitor. However, Xiao Baoshan remained unmoved and continued to study the map on the table, ready tounch the next round of attacks at any time. ... At the imperial pce. Ever since Xiao Baoshan went to support the North, good news came one by one. Li Chengkun could be at ease again. Even the ministers sighed in relief. This time, they didnt need to worry that the Northern Qing Army would make their way down south and threaten their life. Everyone was worried about their own safety except a few cared about Xiao Baoshans personal safety. From time to time, Jin Xiaoyu would go out to inquire the servants of the State Preceptors residence about the situation in the North. She had stayed in the residence for a long time and was almost familiar with the people inside. Even the most serious guards with stern faces would asionally talk to her. After finding out about the situation in the North, Jin Xiaoyu would excitedlye back and tell Ye Xiaoxian, Little Ye, have you heard about it? Armies in the North has been winning. I heard that no matter what method the Daqing country uses, they cant beat your Baoshan. Your Baoshan is as reliable as Mount Everest. Ye Xiaoxian smiled, I know. How did you know? I exchanged the recipe for the news with Zhang Deshui, and I know more details than you. Zhang Deshui is like a storyteller, and he described it to me in graphic detail. Jin Xiaoyu was a little disappointed. Ah, you already knew. If I knew that, I wouldnt have gone out for the news this morning. Okay, then tell me what details Zhang Deshui told you? Ye Xiaoxian smiled, Zhang Deshui told me that the Northern Qing Kingdoms general is called Jing Feng, and he is particrly cunning. Sometimes, he spread the news in the camp that Baoshan was a traitor, andter he said that Baoshan once wanted to marry their princess. He wanted to provoke Baoshan, but Baoshan was not fooled. Well done, Baoshan! Jin Xiaoyu could not help but shout, Little Ye, dont me me for liking your man. Your man is good-looking, brave, and is good at fighting. Every woman likes that kind of man. Otherwise, in the tribe, I wont keep advising you not to be so reserved or else other women would get him. Ye Xiaoxian didnt mind Jin Xiaoyus words. She smiled, Its impossible. He said that he only likes me. Im jealous. Thats great. ... Mrs. State Preceptor had been wandering in the backyard recently. As she strolled around, she walked over to Ye Xiaoxians ce. Mrs. State Preceptor frowned when she heard theughtering from inside. She asked the old maid by her side, Is Madam Xiao living in here? Yes, Madam Xiao and her friend, the one with good cooking skills. Her husband goes to war on the front line. Well, shes not worried at all. Could it be that she is sofortable at the State Preceptors residence that she forgets that her husband is fighting on the battlefield? The old maid knew that Mrs. State Preceptor had high moral standards. She not only had strict requirements for herself but also was strict with others. So the old maid said, Thats right, if it were someone else, they should cry all day. They are really heartless. Mrs. State Preceptor sighed, Thats why people think women from the countryside are shallow. Ah, poor General Xiao, he is fighting for them! After saying that, Mrs. State Preceptor ordered the old maid, By the way, isnt Madam Xiao very good at cooking? You let her cook some food for me when shes free, meat or vegetables. The old maid thought, Didnt you look down on her because shes from the countryside? You just scolded her for being shallow and now want to eat her food. Isnt this a contradiction? The old maid did not dare to say it out loud. Anyway, she would do whatever Mrs. State Preceptor ordered. ... When the old maid arrived at Ye Xiaoxians yard, they were still chatting andughing, so she coughed at the door. An old woman serving Ye Xiaoxian came out and saw her, and quickly invited her in. The old maid didnte in and said, I wont go in. Ie here to deliver Mrs. State Preceptors order. It is said that Madam Xiao is good at cooking. Mrs. State Preceptor wants her to make a few dishes and send them to her yard. They can be meat or vegetables. The old woman was embarrassed. Well... State Preceptor had told her to serve Madam Xiao well and let her rest. Madam Xiao should not do any job unless she was willing to. The old maid asked, What, are you not listening to Mrs. State Preceptors words? Arent you too bold? The old woman could only say, Yes! The old maid ordered again, Also, remind Madam Xiao that her husband is currently fighting on the battlefield. It is a matter of life and death. If she gets time, let her pray for her man. She should abstain from eating meat, and recite more scriptures. Dont y all day. A wife should focus on her husband. The old woman thought, How do you know that she isnt worried about her husband? Even if she is worried about him, does she have to show a sad face every day? But she replied, Yes, I will go and remind Madam Xiao right now. ... In the house. After the old woman told Ye Xiaoxian what the old maid said, Ye Xiaoxian and Jin Xiaoyu couldnt help butugh. Ye Xiaoxian asked Jin Xiaoyu, I cant cry. What should I do? Jin Xiaoyu said, We can do whatever we want. Does it have anything to do with her? That State Preceptor doesnt prohibit us from crying orughing, and now his wife wants to do so? Ye Xiaoxian agreed, Well, next time shees, tell us in advance that we wontugh. Then, she went to prepare the ingredients. Jin Xiaoyu asked, What, do you really want to cook for her? Of course, do I have the right to reject it? Ye Xiaoxian said, We are living in her house. The hostess of this house asks me to cook some dishes. Its simple. I can not reject her. Ye Xiaoxian didnt care if she would be tired or not. Anyway, she got plenty of time to kill. Sometimes, she could use the excuse of cooking for the hostess to get some precious ingredients so that she and Jin Xiaoyu could enjoy. In addition to cooking, she also practised martial arts with Jin Xiaoyu in her spare time. Of course, she couldnt be an expert in martial arts. She only learned some skills to defend herself, which could keep her weight from increasing rapidly. Mrs. State Preceptor had been eating Ye Xiaoxians dishes for the past few days, like ginseng soup, fried shrimp balls, etc. They were all made of rare ingredients. Delicious food kept her in a good mood. However, she had been pretending that she didnt eat meat. Every time the old maid brought food over, she had to pretend to be angry, Why are you eating meat again? Are wecking that little money for meat? Do you have to get meat from other courtyards? The news quickly spread to State Preceptor, saying that Mrs. State Preceptor often asked Little Ye to cook for her and she only ate dishes cooked with good ingredients. Besides, she ate a lot of meat. State Preceptor listened and only said one sentence, Ugly people are often more contentious! Then he said, Go and give orders to Madam, ask her not to bother Madam Xiao. Madam Xiao is now of great importance to our country. Also, isnt the Madam believing in Buddhism? The smell of meat is not appropriate in her courtyard. And now there is a war in the North. As the wife of State Preceptor, she should pray for soldiers and recite scriptures more. She should stop eating meat and her servants cant eat, too. Mrs. State Preceptor was angry to death as soon as she heard the order. She had always been vegetarian. It had just passed a few days since she started to eat some meat, and now State Preceptor asked her to stop. She was irritated. She asked the old maid, Who spread the news that I ate meat at my yard? Who is it? The old maid answered, It must be that... that little bitch, Jin Xiaoyu. I had often seen her chatting with different people in the courtyard. It was only a matter of time for State Preceptor to know this. Madam, lets forget about it. Dont let Madam Xiao cook anymore. Even though Madam Xiao is a prisoner, Lord State Preceptor thinks she is of great use. If she is sick or something, Lord State Preceptor will punish you again. Mrs. State Preceptor couldnt do anything but take it. Mrs. State Preceptor just ate the food Ye Xiaoxian cooked for a few days, but now she felt that something was missing in the dishes cooked by other chefs. It seemed that Ye Xiaoxians food was as intoxicating as Marijuana, and now she couldnt quit. ... Ye Xiaoxian didnt need to cook for Mrs. State Preceptor and she was free and easy again. She smiled and asked Jin Xiaoyu, How do you spread the news of me cooking for Mrs. State Preceptor to State Preceptor? Jin Xiaoyu smiled, Thats easy. There are many people in the residence. I just went out and talked to someone. One person knows, then State Preceptor will naturally know. Even though it was not a difficult task for Little Ye to cook for Mrs. State Preceptor, Jin Xiaoyu was not willing to let her do that. Whats more, she believed Mrs. State Preceptor did not deserve to eat food made by Little Ye. Chapter 322 - The Old Story of Apricot Cake

322. The Old Story of Apricot Cake

Trantor: 299Summer Jin Xiaoyu was indignant, so she pretended to be innocent and leaked out the news that Ye Xiaoxian was cooking for Mrs. State Preceptor, which was how the word got to the State Preceptor. Ye Xiaoxian thanked Jin Xiaoyu and said, We dont have to cook now. What is left to do are just some martial art practice and embroidery work. Isnt that wonderful? Look at you. At first, the Mandarin Duck you embroidered is nothing like a mandarin duck, but a crow. But now it is much better, at least you can tell its a mandarin duck, although it still looks like an ordinary duck a little bit. Ye Xiaoxian smiled. Its fine as long as I am making progress. After I finish this, I will ask for some needles and threads from the servant. I have to embroider this mandarin duck sessfully. Jin Xiaoyu asked, Is it embroidered for Baoshan? Well, I have to leave something to him for memory! Ye Xiaoxian said. Great news kepting from the north, which showed that the war was going to end soon and Xiao Baoshan had to make a choice. Ye Xiaoxian knew so him well that she knew he would definitely follow his conscience, and she would be the one who sacrificed. She also thought, Only If I could have a baby for him back then. On second thought, thankfully, she didnt give birth to a baby for Baoshan. Otherwise, the baby would be suffering, living without a mother. She would rather leave without any concerns. As for him, wouldnt it be the best oue for him to marry another woman and have their own children? ...... After the situation in the north stabilized, Li Chengru and Li Chengyi did not have to stay in the capital anymore. Furthermore, both of them had been in the capital for so long and they never crossed the line. They did not form cliques, nor did they walk around, showing that they were no threat to Li Chengkun. Therefore, When Li Chengyi proposed to go back to Baoning City, Li Chengkun agreed without hesitation. Now, as long as Li Chengkun had a general like Xiao Baoshan, he could stabilize the northern side. Li Chengyi and Li Chengru would be a burden if they stayed in the capital. After Li Chengyi and Li Chengru got the approval of returning to the capital, they packed up and prepared to leave the city. Li Chengyi had no one to worry about. His wife and children were all in Baoning City. Li Chengrus mother was still in the pce, so he had to enter the pce to bid farewell. Imperial concubines in the harem had to pick a day to meet their son. If a prince who had set up a home outside the pce wanted to entered the pce, he could only make it on a fixed date. The day Li Chengru entered the pce was the day before the mid-autumn. When Li Chengrus mother, the concubine heard that Li Chengru was going to leave, she felt grieved, It is so hard for us to be united. Why are you leaving again? Li Chengru said, I am sorry, mother, but I have something to do. Please forgive me for the unfilial behavior. Li Chengrus mother sighed, Mother knows that you have always been a very independent-minded person and hate to be restrained. If you are kept in the capital city, Im afraid you wont be happy. Since you have your own business to do, go ahead and do it. Its just that mother feels unreconciled on thinking that you, as the prince, with royal status, yet are living like a traveller who wanders in every corner of the world. When will you be able to get married, have a son and enjoy the family happiness? Li Chengru said, As a descendant of the imperial family, no matter how many wives and children we have, we wil not be safe. The concubine sighed again. Thats true. Since you already made a choice in mind, then you do whatever you want. Just follow your heart. ...... As the mother and son were griefly saying goodbye to each other, a voice came from outside suddenly, Herees the Empress! Hearing that the Empress was on the way, Li Chengrus mother quickly got up and pulled Li Chengru up. Chengru, lets wee the Empress together. Li Chengru was confused, Why would shee to mothers pce? She oftenes. She said it was for the old times sake. After she finished her words, the Empress came in. The Empress saw Li Chengru and pretended to be surprised. You are here? What a coincidence Li Chengrus mother, the concubine said, Yes, he will go back to Baoning City with the Sixth King tomorrow. He is here to bid me farewell. The Empress asked the maid behind her to bring a food box in front of the concubine and said, What a coincidence. I personally made some apricot cakes and some green bean cakes personally. You two have a taste. I remember that Chengru liked apricot cakes when he was small. Thanks, Your Highness. The concubine was touched and said to Li Chengru, The Empress has been taking good care of me all these years. Li Chengru said in a neutral tone, I appreciate all the help offered by the Empress and I am sorry for the trouble caused. The Empress smiled and said, Never mind. When I was young, I liked to go into the pce to fool around. Your mother also took good care of me back then. Since you arent in the capital city, I should take care of her. The Empress then asked Li Chengru, Why dont you stay in the capital for some more time? Tomorrow is the Mid-autumn Festival. Why dont you wait until you have some mooncakes? Theres a banquet in the pce tomorrow, which is for descendants of the imperial family only, therefore others wont be there. Li Chengru said, There is no need to wait. For years, I never attend the Mid-autumn banquet. Besides, Ive been away from the capital for a long time, so its awkward for me to go there. I dont want to cause any trouble for His Majesty and Your Highness. The Empress felt embarrassed. Li Chengru checked the time again, then he said to his mother and the Empress, Your Highness, mother, its gettingte. Chengru should get out of the pce. You two can take your time to chat. I wille back to visit you whenever I have the opportunity. The Empress was a little disappointed. So soon? How about you bring these snacks and eat on your journey? The concubine also asked Li Chengru to bring some sancks along, worring that he would suffer on the journey. Li Chengru refused, Mom, your son is no longer a child who would cry for desserts. These desserts should be left to you. After all, it shows the Empresss kindness. Seeing him say this, the mother and Empress no longer tried to persuade him. They could only watch him say goodbye and leave the pce. The Empress watched Li Chengru leave in a daze. The concubine didnt know why. She thought the Empress was disappointed so she exined for Li Chengru, This child has grown up. He now has his own personality and is strong-minded. I cant control him. If he was impolite towards you just now, I hope Your Highness could forgive him. The Empress smiled slightly. I didnt me him, and I will not me him. However, in my eyes, he is still the child back then. ...... Before returning to Baoning City, Li Chengru still wanted to see Ye Xiaoxian and bid her farewell. Therefore, he went to the State Preceptor residence and exin the reason why he came. Li Chengru was the brother of the Emperor after all, so State Preceptor did not make things difficult for him. He let him in, but State Preceptor sent Wan Shijie to keep an eye on him. After Ye Xiaoxian came out, she saw Li Chengru and saw so many people guarding her. She knew she couldnt say too much. She only smiled slightly and asked Li Chengru, Are you going back to Baoning City? Li Chengru nodded, Yes, so Ie over to say goodbye. Well, then you can go back. I have a good life here. After you go back, tell my family that I am safe, and that Baoshan and I have a good time in the capital. If there is a chance, I will pick them up to the capital. Li Chengru smiled, Thats for sure. Then, they had nothing more to say. After all, it was inconvenient since they were young man and woman. If they were too close, others would gossip on that. Ye Xiaoxian saw that the atmosphere was awkward, so he asked, Is there anything else you need? Li Chengru was obviously reluctant to leave, so he continued, Do you have anything want me to bring to them? Its some gold and silver jewelry bestowed by State Preceptor, and some clothes. I wonder will it cause too much trouble to ask you to bring those things to them? I want to give them to my mother, Baozhu and the others. Li Chengru nodded, Of course. Theres no trouble. Thanks, your Royal Highness! Ye Xiaoxian smiled again, looking very calm. Then... Ill leave, Li Chengru said. Ok, be careful on the way! Ye Xiaoxian urged. Li Chengru nodded, You take good care of yourself. I will. ... The two chatted for a while. Then Li Chengru left State Preceptors residence and Ye Xiaoxian returned to the backyard. However, Ye Xiaoxian was a little sad on the way back. Li Chengru was one of her few friends. Could this be thest time they met? She sighed and felt that she couldnt bring the sorrow back, so she picked some flowers in the garden. An old maid came over to remind her, Madam Xiao, you cannot pick the flowers in this courtyard! Ye Xiaoxian suddenly looked at her angrily. Really? Why didnt you say it earlier? Im from the countryside, I dont know the rules. The old maid paused. She even thought that she had met someone else just now other than Madam Xiao. Ever since the first time Madam Xiao had entered the residence, she had always been friendly and had a smile on her face, but just now, she appeared extremely fierce. She had never been so fierce before! The old maid then let Ye Xiaoxian back to the yard with arge bundle of chrysanthemums. ...... Li Chengru came out of State Preceptors residence and left the capital with Li Chengyi that day. The two of them brought some guards when they arrived, and now they left with the same group of people. After they left the capital city, they went to the official road. However, not long after they hit on the official road, they changed their way to the small road. There were not many of them and they had juste out of the Imperial City. They had to be careful at this moment. They especially worried about being assassinated. They wouldnt pose any threaten to Li Chengkun as long as they returned to Baoning City, but what if Li Chengkun was too petty and kept on guarding them? In history, it was not rare for the brothers of the emperor to be assassinated. ...... In the pce. The Empress listened to her subordinate reporting Li Chengrus departure. Has he left the city? Yes, Your Highness. Who did he see before leaving the city? He only went to the State Preceptors residence to meet Madam Xiao. He went in with empty hands but came out with some gold and silver, which might be brought back to Baoning City. How long has he stayed in the State Preceptors residence? The Empress asked again. Not long, just a quarter. Alright, I know! The Empress said. After her surbodinates left, the Empress sat quietly in the room. This time, Li Chengru only said goodbye to his mother and Ye Xiaoxian, so Ye Xiaoxian must means a lot to him. Otherwise, when he was about to leave, he could just send someone to State Preceptors residence to deliver a message. Why would he bother to go there personally? What kind of person is this Ye Xiaoxian? ...... Next was the Mid-Autumn Festival. During Mid-autumn Festival, the capital was bustling withnterns, firecrackers, and mooncakes everywhere. In the pce, all the ministers received mooncakes, and the descendants of the imperial family gathered together to enjoy the flowers and moon, and wrote poems and couplets, which was quite pleasant. Chapter 323

323. The Pce Banquet

Trantor: Florea Ye Xiaoxian was also making mooncakes in the backyard. The mooncakes she made were quite different from which of the age where she was living now. She would put in a lot of fillings, such as red bean paste, lotus-seed paste, and mixed nuts. And the mooncakes made by her were even more exquisite than the ones made by Zhang Deshui. When Zhang Deshui heard that Ye Xiaoxian had made mooncakes, he came over early, wanting to ask her for some to eat. Ye Xiaoxian was not mean and gave him some mooncakes of each vor. Tasting the mooncakes, Zhang Deshui felt each one had a wonderful vor, even better than those in the pce. Ye Xiaoxian made a lot and also gave some to the maids who served her. Coming from the modern era, she had an opinion that everyone is equal. And she didnt have a prejudice against the maids; everyone could taste her mooncakes. When the young and old maids tasted her mooncakes, they could not help but feel grateful. Actually, they could have mooncakes in their residence, but those mooncakes werent as delicious as the ones made by Ye Xiaoxian. So Ye Xiaoxian made a favorable impression on them. ...... Li Chengyi and Li Chengru also celebrated the mid-autumn festival. The Mid-autumn Festival was one of the most important festivals, so they must celebrate it even though they were on their way. They were returning home by boat. There was a small square table on the boat and a dish of mooncakes ced on the table.They started to appreciate poems as the moon rose above the river. Such as the bright moon is rising above the sea, everyone far away enjoys the same moment. and so on. After that, they had some mooncakes and wine, talking about the things happened in the imperial court. No matter what, they were out of danger this time. And they could soon return to Baoning City. ...... While the situation in the north was different. It was harmonious all over the imperial court and every house was full ofughter. But the battle raged in the north. On the day of the Mid-autumn Festival, Xiao Baoshanunched a renewed attack, forcing the army to retreat 25 km, causing many casualties. Northern Qing army would be forced to surrender if they couldnt fight back, or if they didnt have the back-up. ...... After the festival, it was peaceful in the capital. Li Chengkun was very happy with the reports of new victories from the north. Even the empresses and concubines in the pce benefited greatly. Some of the curiosities paid by the tributaries were sent to them. When the empress counted all the curiosities, she thought about holding a small banquet to invite those officials and their families to attend since she got so many of them. And she would reward those curiosities to the ministers as the banquet was over. The empress suddenly thought of Ye Xiaoxian when she was sorting the name list. Last time when she saw Ye Xiaoxian, she only found that Ye Xiaoxian looked like the Empress Dowager. And it was just a quick nce and the empress didnt remember much. She didnt know what kind of person Ye Xiaoxian was and she could be admired by Li Chengru. She knew that Li Chengru rarely made real friends. The person he admired must be someone who had the smarts. Also, Ye Xiaoxian looked like the Empress Dowager. Coincidentally, the empress and the Empress Dowager werent getting along. And the empress had been hoping that rumours could circte about Empress Dowagers problem and it would destroy her reputation. If the empress invited Ye Xiaoxian toe into the pce, other officials wives would definitely say behind her back, which would have the State Preceptor involved. After all, Ye Xiaoxian was living in State Preceptors residence, and the State Preceptor and Empress Dowager was having an affair. They might think Ye Xiaoxian was the daughter of the State Preceptor and the Empress Dowager. What the empress wanted was that Ye Xiaoxian and the Empress Dowager could get into the trouble at the same time. With that thought, the empress added Mrs.Ye, Xiao Baoshans wife on the list. Anyway, Xiao Baoshan was currently fighting on the battlefield to perform meritorious service. And it was right and proper to invite his wife over. ...... In the State Preceptors residence, his wife and Ye Xiaoxian received their invitations. The State Preceptor didnt think much about it. He only asked Wan Shijie to give the invitation to Ye Xiaoxian. Now that Xiao Baoshan was not in the capital as well as Li Chengyi and Li Chengru had gone back, no one would think of kidnapping Ye Xiaoxian. And Ye Xiaoxian wouldnt be able to escape as long as State Preceptor sent one or two Kongfu masters to keep an eye on her. Besides, Jin Xiaoyu was still in the residence and she also couldnt go anywhere. Jin Xiaoyu was so angry at this. She didnt care about going to the imperial pce, but why was she the one who stayed behind every time? She had been in the State Preceptors residence for a long time and she found it boring staying here. Since she couldnt follow Ye Xiaoxian to go to the imperial pce, she went to the State Preceptors garden angrily, picking up some flowers and putting them in the vase. The butler and the old maid in the residence told her not to mess around, while she wouldnt listen. She only cared about her mood and said, Im from the rural area. I dont understand the rules here. The butler and the old maid were angry, but they couldnt do anything to her as the State Preceptor ordered that they should treat her and Ye Xiaoxian well. ...... Ye Xiaoxian must freshen up as she would go to the pce. The casual dress was not suitable on this asion. She had to be in formal clothes ording to the standard of the pce. Taking a shower was a must. And after that, she had to do the hair removal on her legs and hands. And she even needed to have her eyebrows plucked. She also had to wear her hair in a bun ording to the standard of the pce. The empress probably knew that Ye Xiaoxian didnt have many clothes and essories, so she gave her some and asked someone to send them to the State Preceptors residence in advance. Ye Xiaoxian deserved to ept all these as she was now the wife of the general. And they were just some clothes and jewellery, which wouldnt cause jealousy of those officials wives. After freshening up, the maid helped Ye Xiaoxian put on the clothes and jewellery rewarded by the empress. Putting on the jewellery, Ye Xiaoxian felt heavy all over. The jewellery only on her head was about two or three kilograms. Plus the jewellery on her hand, neck and clothes, she thought that they would weigh more than five kilos. These clothes looked light, but she felt a little ufortable in the clothes, which were with jewellery. Apart from the clothes and jewellery, her makeup was also different. The imperial family of Great Qi Dynasty had a rule that the women of the officials have to wear court makeup on formal asions. For example, they had to put on bitten lips make-up, which looked a bit modern. And only half of their eyebrows had to be filled in. After finishing her makeup, Ye Xiaoxian looked like the maiden in a painting. She looked in the mirror and almost couldnt recognize herself. The woman in the mirror was charming, but she seemed to be wearing a mask, covering up her true self. In short, it was a heavy feudal makeup. Jin Xiaoyu had always been making fun of this ugly makeup. How could a normal woman put on this? Ye Xiaoxian was demure when wearing this makeup, but it made her look like a woman who should get off her high horse. After the makeup, two maids helped Ye Xiaoxian out. One supported her while the other helped her with her dress, all looked serious. Leaving the residence, Ye Xiaoxian saw that there were two carriages outside. The maid told her that one of the carriages was for the State Preceptors wife and Ye Xiaoxian had to wait for her to get in first since thedy hadnte out yet. Ye Xiaoxian could only wait in the doorway. Within a quarter of an hour, thedy slowly came over. Actually, it was the first time for Ye Xiaoxian to meet thedy although she had been living in the residence for so long. Thedy looked like in her forties. She was in good shape, her beauty appearing ageless. While she didnt have a pleasant face and she looked a little mean, as if she had stored upints for long. These days she heard on the grapevine that the State Preceptor and his wife were not in love with each other and their marriage was never consummated. His wife burned incense and prayed before Buddha all the year round, not caring other things. However, Ye Xiaoxian felt that she didnt look like a woman who burned incense and prayed before Buddha for a long time. Because a buddhist would be the one with a kindly face or the one who was ascetic. And it was obvious that thisdy was actually having his own desires. Thedy also saw Ye Xiaoxian at the time. She had always heard that Ye Xiaoxian was from the rural area and was a great cook. So Ye Xiaoxian in her eyes should be an ordinary rural woman with a dark skin and a plump shape, just like Zhang Deshui. She didnt expect Ye Xiaoxian to be stunned when she got closer to look at her. She did not look like a chef at all. How could she look like... a coquette? In fact, thedy knew much gossip although she had always pretended to be praying before Buddha heartily. And she knew that the State Preceptor and the Empress Dowager had an affair. She had a portrait of the Empress Dowager. And she would take it out to have a look at it when she was depressed. Every time she saw it, she felt that the woman in the paiting was a coquette. She would take her men to strip off this womans clothes and throw her to the street if it wasnt for her status as the Empress Dowager. The Empress Dowagers portrait was gathering around her head as soon as she saw Ye Xiaoxian. How could they look so simr? They got the same makeup, same gorgeous clothes, just exactly the same as that coquettes face. Could it be that there may be some other reason for the State Preceptor to trap Madam Xiao in the residence? Or could it be that the State Preceptor and the Empress Dowager had children before? Impossible! She heard that the Empress Dowager was introduced to the previous emperor by the State Preceptor. If she had given birth to a child before, wouldnt the previous emperor be aware of that? No matter what, the State Preceptors wife felt that it was sordid, so when she came to Ye Xiaoxian, she just looked at Ye Xiaoxian and snorted. Ye Xiaoxian was speechless and wondering why. Did she do something to offend thedy unconsciously? Was it because that she didnt cook for the State Preceptors wife after the State Preceptor knew it? The State Preceptors wife got into her carriage without saying a word, and then Ye Xiaoxian, helped by the maid, got into the carriage behind the State Preceptors carriage. Wan Shijie followed the carriage with a group of guards. Then the carriages started on their way slowly. ...... When they reached the pce, Ye Xiaoxian was helped to get off the carriage and then she got into the sedan chair. She felt that she had been treated much better than she wasst time. She walked all the wayst time. And now her feet were almost off the ground. Ye Xiaoxian was not allowed to enter the living area of the imperial concubines when she came herest time, but this time she went directly into it in the sedan chair. The further they walked inside, the more gorgeous things they saw: all kinds of rockery and pavilions, flowers and trees as well as the busy maids and eunuchs. The ce where the empress lived was called Ziyun (Purple Cloud) Pce, which was even more exquisite than the State Preceptors residence. As it was a ce where women lived, there were more flowers and nts inside than the State Preceptors residence, with chrysanthemums and China roses of all colors, decorating the garden like an immortal pce. After a while, Ye Xiaoxian was also brought to the inner hall. The crowd didnt roar although it was a banquet. The offficials wives were sitting in the hall, two by two at a table. The State Preceptors wife was brought to the front seat. Ye Xiaoxian was arranged to sit in the back row with an assistant ministers wife because of her identity. Those were still small square tables and there was nowhere to sit. She had to sit on her knees. Chapter 324 - They Look the Same

324. They Look the Same

Trantor: 299Summer For some reason, after sitting down, Ye Xiaoxian found that many people were looking at her. She got strange looks, surprised looks, astonished looks. It seemed she always got looks like this every time she went out, even the State Preceptors wife who she just met when she went out gave her that look . She had no idea what was going on, so she just smiled at those officials wives who were looking at her. However, those wives didnt stop. After giving her that look, they whispered to each other for a while. Ye Xiaoxian could only ask the Vice Ministersdy who was sitting beside her, Why are they looking at me? Do you know whats going on? The Vice Ministersdy said bluntly, Madam Xiao, you look a little like the Empress Dowager. The Empress Dowager? Ye Xiaoxian was surprised. She had never heard about the affairs between the Empress Dowager and the State Preceptor, but since others said she looked like the Empress Dowager, she was confused. She looked like Empress Dowager. Would that cause any trouble? Was the Empress Dowager old? The Vice Ministersdy carefully examined Ye Xiaoxian and continued, The more I look at you, the more you look like her, especially the makeup the clothes you are wearing today, which are all the same styles that the Empress Dowager likes. She also likes to wear clothes with blue lotus leaves. Ye Xiaoxian thought to herself, This dress is given by the Empress. Did the Empress give me these clothes on purpose? Her intuition told her that she might be in trouble. She might be punished for being disrespectful to the Empress Dowager. ...... The Empress also came out at that time. After the Empress arrived, she sat down on the masters sit and nced at the people below. Everyone rushed to pay respects to the Empress, and Ye Xiaoxian followed them. The Empress looked dignified. She said, Since everyone is here, lets officially begin. Today, I invite you toe mainly because there are a lot of rare and interesting items handed in from various ces. On the one hand, I hope you can admire these curiosities with me. On the other hand, I will reward somedies whose husbands have rendered meritorious service in the government with some of these. Because only when you manage your family well, can the men focus on the state affairs. Then the Empress added, Tonight, we have a few new faces. Let me introduce them to everyone. The first is thedy of Director of the Ministry of Rites, who just got married. Her name is... It was the first time that thisdy had the opportunity to attended such an event. Clearly, she was a little nervous, but she was not panicking at all. She bowed to the Empress alone, and then to the other officials wives. The Empress then introduced Ye Xiaoxian to others, This is General Xiaos wife. As everyone knows, we are winning in the north. It is General Xiao who is fighting at the front to protect the country, so Mrs. Ye contributes a lot as well. This time, everyone looked at Ye Xiaoxian unscrupulously. Ye Xiaoxian imitated thedy of Director of the Ministry of Rites, standing up to greet others in the room one by one. At this moment, after Ye Xiaoxian finished her curtsey, one of thedies present finally couldnt help but say, I look at Madam Ye and find out she looks like a person we know, that is our Empress Dowager! After she says this, the rest of them could not help but agree. Yeah, they do look the same. Isnt Madam Xiao looks just like the twin sister of our Empress Dowager? I noticed that before, which surprised me a lot. ... That was exactly what the Empress wanted. Seeing that she had achieved her goal, the Empress also said, I havent noticed it if you didnt mention it. But now I do agree that Madam Xiao does look like Mother, the Empress Dowager. Could they knew each other in previous life? Another person added, Im afraid they didnt know each other in previous life. It is possible that Madam Xiao is actually the Empress Dowagers lost sister? Then someone asked Ye Xiaoxian where she lived originally. They knew that the Empress Dowager was from Jiangnan area and she got in the pce twenty years ago. Ye Xiaoxian could only answer, I am from Qinghe County, in the southernmost area. Everyone then felt that Ye Xiaoxian has nothing to do with the Empress Dowager. They just looked like each other. The empress tried to draw everyones attention back and said Look at you! Though Madam Xiao and Mother look like each other, it must be a coincidence. Theres no rtionship between them. Dont be suspicious anymore. Next, we will enjoy our tributes while eating our food. The dishes were served with some royal snacks and drinks. In Ye Xiaoxians eyes, these foods were not that good. It was just that they were all ced in exquisite saucers, which made the food looked luxurious. Next was the tributes, and the first one was a ss vase. There were five kinds of decorative marking pattern on the vase, which made the vase look glorious when the patterns were put together. Everyone who saw this vase was amazed, saying that this vase was really valuable. Only Ye Xiaoxian didnt think it was a big deal. It was just ss. They thought it valuable just because ss vase was umon in that era. In modern society, this was just a bottle that could not be any more ordinary. The bottle was given to thedy of a minister by the Empress. Thedy couldnt help but smile when she got the bottle. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help but sigh. This vase was seriously worthless. The emerald bracelet which served as the second tribute made Ye Xiaoxian feel surprised. Even if she was not an expert in jade, she could tell that this one was pure and nice. On wearing it on the hand, one could immediately feel the jade be the same temperature as the body. This kind of jade was pretty valuable in modern society. However, the otherdies obviously got used to such material. They did not act like it was a precious thing. At that time, the emerald was pure and had various types. They must have got used to it. Ye Xiaoxian couldnt help sighing in her heart, It is apparent that we are from different eras, since we have different values. Later, somebs made of pure sheep horns and some rare luminous pearls were served. During the banquet, the Empress asked the servant to bring up a delicate box. She asked, Guess what is it in this box? This box wasnt transparent. Who would have guessed what was inside? Even so, a group of people still spoke one after another, expressing their views . I guess it must be a treasure! It is definitely something extraordinary. Thats right, after all, its the grand finale. ... The Empress smiled. This is the lotus of Tianshan Mountains from Tianshan tribe of Baoning City. The Tianshan Mountain lotus grows on an extremely coldnd, at the mountainside of the Tianshan Mountains. It only blooms once in five or six years. It is a panacea for females. Even though it is true that there are enough Tianshan Mountain lotuses in our Imperial pce, but we can only see dried ones. However, this lotus flower is fresh which was sent over with ice. It is extremely rare! After finishing her words, the Empress opened the delicate box. When everyone looked at it again, they found that there was indeed a fresh Tianshan Mountain lotus lying inside. The Empress added, I want to give this Tianshan Mountain lotus to Madam Xiao as a award, as General Xiao is so hardworking to fight in the front, so only Madam Xiao can enjoy this glory. Ye Xiaoxian had seen Tianshan Mountain lotus in Tianshan tribe. She didnt actually regard it as a treasure. First of all, the lotus should be used to treat illness and she was not sick. Secondly, although the lotus at the present was fresh, it still had to be brought to the imperial physicians operation room to dry out if anyone wanted to use it as medicine. She actually would rather have that green emerald bracelet. However, as it was bestowed by the Empress, she had no choice but to ept it. And there was no way that she could exchange it with other gifts in private. Otherwise, this kind of action would be a serious crime. Ye Xiaoxian went up to get her reward. As she walked forward, everyone stared at her again, and then someone started to gossip. They really look the same! Exactly, even their ways of walking are very simr. Apart from Madam Xiao is not as enchanting as the the Empress Dowager, they look exactly the same. Ye Xiaoxian ignored everyones gossip and went to get her reward. When she got the box from the Empress, she saw the Empress reveal a mysterious smile at her. Her smile made Ye Xiaoxians heart tremble for a bit. She felt that the Empress was plotting something behind. In ancient times, especially in the imperial pce, as long as there were many women, there would be conspiracies. Ye Xiaoxian had always felt that if she had traveled through time and space and had be an imperial concubine in ancient times, she probably wouldnt outlive the time of an episode of a TV y. She now had this feeling of fear. ...... The banquet went on and it was 8 or 9 clock in the evening, people at that time were used to sleeping early. Many of thedies were already yawning at this point. The Empress had bestowed most of her treasures to others, so she let everyone go home. When Ye Xiaoxian was also about to leave, the Empress stopped her. Madam Xiao, wait for a moment. There are still some things I want to say to you. Ye Xiaoxian was confused, so she temporarily stayed. Her intuition told her that the Empress was up to something awful. Almost everyone else had left. There were only the Empress and Ye Xiaoxian in the pce, and the servants waiting beside the Empress. The Empress appeared to be friendly, Madam Xiao, you dont have to be nervous. The reason why I keep you here is that I think that your husband is fighting in the front, and I, as the Empress, should take good care of the generals family, nothing more. Thank you, Your Highness, Ye Xiaoxian said. The Empress added, Have you been living in the State Preceptors residence recently? In fact, you could have lived in the generals mansion. Why did you stay in the State Preceptors residence the whole time? Ye Xiaoxian sneered, I have no idea. This is arranged by the State Preceptor. Oh? the Empress clearly acted like she was confused when she exactly knew what happened. The Empress smiled again. Are you used to living in the State Preceptors residence? I have got used to it. As long as youre used to it, it is great. Im afraid you wont get used to it. If you need anything, you can also ask someone to pass a message to me. As long as it is something that I can get, I will help you. The Empress was suddenly so enthusiastic that Ye Xiaoxian was very confused. Is the everyones character in the pce so unpredictable? Ye Xiaoxian could only say, Thanks for your concern, Your Highness. Then the topic was brought to the Tianshan tribe. The Empress asked Ye Xiaoxian, I heard that youve been in Baoning City for a while, right? Ye Xiaoxian nodded. Its been two or three years. How is the environment over there? The Empress asked. After being trapped for so long, Ye Xiaoxian naturally missed the life there. She said, There is Tianshan Mountains, water, and cows and sheep weeping on the grass. People are happily riding horses on farms, and life isfortable. The Empress suddenly sighed and said, That exins a lot. Ye Xiaoxian was confused. Ye Xiaoxian didnt understand why the Empress would say that. The Empress asked again, When you were there, did you often see the Sixth King and the Seventh King? Ye Xiaoxian was confused and thought that the Empress was trying to prey for their gossip, so she said, We dont meet often. We only see each other once a year or so, during the Kaisheng festival, when the Seventh King woulde over to ride horses and do some archery. Chapter 325 - The Lost Daughter

325. The Lost Daughter

Trantor: ChowvanLee The Empresss eyes lit up. Oh? The Seventh King can ride horses and do archery? He must be very good at these, right? Yeah, hes pretty good at them. Ye Xiaoxian caught that the Empresss eyes were shining when she mentioned Li Chengru. Were they on good terms before? The Empress then asked her about the tribe. Ye Xiaoxian told her some trivial matters and didnt mention their Camel Team or Little Xun. After about an hour, the Empress asked someone to send Ye Xiaoxian back to the State Preceptors residence. ... The next day. Empress Dowager didnt get up till noon. She was already Empress Dowager, so she didnt have to waste time to do those tricks anymore. She only cared about herself now, doing some skincare and exercise. However, some imperial concubines would stille to tter her, trying to win the Emperors favour through her. Well, as soon as she got up, she heard that a few imperial concubines were waiting outside to greet her. They came over to visit her and Empress Dowager naturally wouldnt refuse it. It was always a good thing for her to have someone to talk to. So, after Empress Dowager finished washing up and a whole set of skincare procedures, she came out to meet these imperial concubines who were younger than her. After imperial concubines sent their regards to Empress Dowager, they started to tter her, Your Majesty, youre bing younger and younger. Our younger generation is not as good as you. If one doesnt know our rtions, he would say youre the same age as us. Could you teach us some skills for skincare, Your Majesty? Im afraid Empress Dowager is born this way and cant be taught. ... Everyone was ttering her, and Empress Dowager was also very d to hear it. Who didnt likepliments? She wished that those imperial concubines could line up to give her good words every day. Everyone surrounded Empress Dowager and came to chat with Empress Dowager. Besides telling stories, they were also talking about rumours in the pce. And then they talked about the banquet the Empress arrangedst night. One imperial concubine surnamed Chen said, Last night, I saw a lot of treasures, the lotus from Tianshan Mountains and the ss bottles. They were rare. The Empress gave these to the wives of ministers. Imperial concubine surnamed Li said, Right, but we dontck these things. The Empress is virtuous and is kind to the wives of ministers. Imperial concubine surnamed Zhang said, By the way, Xiao Baoshans wife was presentst night. Everyone said... Imperial concubine surnamed Zhang paused and subconsciously nced at Empress Dowager. Empress Dowager asked, What did they say? It is rted to me? Imperial concubine surnamed Zhang didnt dare to say anything. Empress Dowager knew imperial concubines should be discreet in the pce. After all, shed been through numerous conspiracies and survived. She saw the imperial concubine surnamed Zhang mumbling and mocked, If you dont want to say it, you wouldnt have started it just now. Just say it. Imperial concubine surnamed Zhang had no choice but to say, Everyone says that Madam Xiao looks like you, Empress Dowager, the younger you. Imperial concubine surnamed Li added, But Madam Xiao isnt as beautiful as you, Empress Dowager. She just looks like you, but isnt as charming as you. Imperial concubine surnamed Chen also said, Madam Xiaoes from the countryside and her charisma isnt as good as you, Empress Dowager. She is just a little younger. Empress Dowager was silent. State Preceptor had said that Madam Xiao looked simr to her, and now people in the pce said the same. Could it be... Before this, she thought that State Preceptor was a yboy. He trapped Madam Xiao in his residence because Madam Xiao looked like her and he could take advantage of Madam Xiao. At the same time, she could curb Xiao Baoshan. State Preceptor had sworn to her that he had no feelings about Madam Xiao and only thought they were a little alike. Empress Dowager asked imperial concubine surnamed Zhang, How old is Madam Xiao? She answered, Probably eighteen or neen. She wont be more than twenty. Empress Dowager was startled. Her age was actually matched. She asked again, Where does shee from? Imperial concubine surnamed Zhang replied, The Empress asked her. She said that she was from Qinghe County, the southernmost of Daqi fief. Then the Empress said that it is her good fortune to look like you. Empress Dowager thought for a moment and pretended to be calm. I also want to see Madam Xiao someday, see if she is really simr to me. Actually, she was wondering in her mind if Madam Xiao was... her long-lost daughter. ... That day, State Preceptor went to Empress Dowagers Pce again. Empress Dowager had just finished a shower and changed into a thin dress. She looked nothing like an old woman but a beautiful girl. State Preceptor couldnt help but want to hug Empress Dowager. However, he was pushed away by Empress Dowager. Whats wrong? Why so cold? Its not easy for me to find opportunities to meet you. We can only meet two times a month, yet you still refuse me? State Preceptor asked. Empress Dowager was a little impatient, Dont be so rush. I need to talk to you. Its urgent. Urgent? What urgent business is there between us? Isnt the most urgent thing... that? State Preceptor came to hug Empress Dowager again. Empress Dowager was serious this time. She pushed State Preceptor away and said, Im serious. Okay, then tell me, State Preceptor said. Empress Dowager straightened her messy clothes and said, A few days ago, the Empress invited Madam Xiao to the banquet. Do you know about this? Of course. I was sending someone to watch her. She had no chance to run! State Preceptor looked confused. Empress Dowager rolled her eyes at him. I didnt mean that. Thats not the point. The point is that many people say she looks like me. State Preceptor was confused, Didnt I tell you about this before? The first time I saw her, I didnt feel she looked like you. Later, when she put on some beautiful clothes, she really looked like you! It was weird. Empress Dowager said, I heard she is about 20 years old. Yeah, shes quite young. Why do you care about this? State Preceptor swore to the heavens, Do you suspect that I like young girls again? Hmph. Im busy all the time and Im not in the mood to waste my time on her. Normally, I dont even want to see her! Sigh, I dont know what to say about you. You guys are just too thoughtless. What I mean is that Madam Xiao... Empress Dowager looked around and then dismissed the maids. When there were only them left in the pce, Empress Dowager continued, Dont you think that Madam Xiao might be our long-lost daughter? Ah? State Preceptor asked with surprise, Why do you think so? I asked in the first ce. Madam Xiao is from Qinghe County. She has parents, and she grows up with his husband. How could she be our daughter? What about her parents? Have you seen them before? Empress Dowager asked. State Preceptor answered. How could I meet her parents? Im the State Preceptor of this country. Who are they? Empress Dowager rolled her eyes at State Preceptor again. Is this the time topete with them? I mean, you should go check her background and figure out if shes our biological daughter. State Preceptor asked, This is... impossible? She is the one I used to curb Xiao Baoshan. If she is our daughter, how could this be done? You... Empress Dowager was so angry that she said, Ive said it so clearly. Why dont you understand? How can you not care about our daughter at all? Hmph, youre so selfish. You have a wife and many children but Ive given birth to this only child in my life. All these years, Ive thought of her and missed her but you only treat her as a tool for your schemes. Not only our daughter, but also me is your tool, too! Empress Dowager was irritated and State Preceptor was a little nervous. He quicklyforted Empress Dowager, I dont mean that. Then what do you mean? I mean, if she really is our daughter, then I will definitely... not treat her as a tool, but do you think this is possible? Empress Dowager said, True or false, we have to investigate it first! Then Ill send someone to her hometown to investigate? Im not sure if her family is still in Qinghe County, but I heard that they went to Baoning City because of famine. Empress Dowager suddenly remembered something. You dont have to go to the Baoning City. I remember that when our daughter was born, there was a red mole on her back. Let someone see if there is a mole on Madam Xiaos back. State Preceptor asked, At which position of the back? Empress Dowager pointed on the centre of State Preceptors back. Here, I remember that the red mole was popped out, not a spot. If it was a spot, it might fade, but if it was a mole, it wouldnt disappear. Itll still be there even if she grows up. State Preceptor hurriedly said, Okay, I will let an old maid take a good look at her back after I go back. Is that okay? Empress Dowager was satisfied. There you go. State Preceptor added, What if she really has a red mole on her back, what do you n to do? You are Empress Dowager. If others know that you gave birth to a daughter before you entered the pce, then you disrespected the Emperor. You must be beheaded. Empress Dowager said, I definitely wont let anyone know, but I will make up for the regret I have been feeling over the years. I want to bring her into the pce and treat her well. State Preceptor shook his head, This cant work. People will be suspicious. Empress Dowagers calming mood was waving again. I cant do this and I cant do that. Can I just watch my daughter appear in front of me, but do nothing? You dont know how much Ive missed her over the years. Empress Dowager cried after she finished. State Preceptor was helpless and said, You dont know the conclusion yet. Well talk about it after I go back and do some investigation. Empress Dowager urged him, Then go back quickly. But I just came here. We havent done... that yet. State Preceptor said pitifully. At such a moment, how could you still think about that? Do you care about my feelings? Empress Dowager was angry again. State Preceptor didnt dare to mess with Empress Dowager, so he left pettishly. ... At State Preceptors residence. As soon as State Preceptor returned to his residence, he sat down to drink half a pot of tea. While drinking tea, he thought about Empress Dowagers words and Ye Xiaoxian. Ye Xiaoxian is really my long-lost daughter? If its true, then what should I do? As Empress Dowager said, he actually didnt want any daughter at all. If it wasnt for Empress Dowagers unexpectedly pregnancy, he wouldnt let her give birth to that child. The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!