《The Peasant Wife Is a Lucky Charm》
Chapter 1
Little Fat Girl Forced to Marry a Handsome Man
Qin Zhenzhen, who had experienced a severe car ident, reluctantly closed her eyes. Regret filled her heart as she realized she hadn¡¯t even had the chance to fall in love before her untimely demise.
If given another opportunity, she vowed to embrace love wholeheartedly.
Perhaps fate intended to grant Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s wish, for she regained consciousness in a dazed state.
However, before she could even open her eyes, she overheard the anxious voice of a little girl.
¡°Fifth Brother,e and see. Why isn¡¯t she moving? Is she dead¡?¡±
A little boy¡¯s voice followed suit.
¡°It¡¯s good if she¡¯s dead. It will solve a major problem for our third brother!¡±
¡°Will there be legal consequences if she dies in our house?¡±
¡°What legal consequences? She fell and identally killed herself!¡±
¡°But what if her brother uses us of pushing her?¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry. Everyone in the vige can vouch for us. She¡¯s so fierce. Usually, she¡¯s the one chasing and hitting us. How could we dare to push her?¡±
What on earth was happening?
Could she still be alive?
Qin Zhenzhen had been in a grave car ident, and logically, survival seemed impossible.
Baffled, she slowly opened her eyes and saw an eleven or twelve-year-old boy and an eight or nine-year-old girl crouched on the ground, examining her condition with keen interest.
What made it even more peculiar was that these two delicate yet undernourished children were dressed in tattered ancient garments.
¡°Little Sister, run! She¡¯s pretending to be dead!¡±
As Qin Zhenzhen regained consciousness, the boy swiftly grabbed the girl¡¯s hand and they dashed out of the courtyard, disappearing like nimble rabbits.
Qin Zhenzhen was left in a state of bewilderment. Where was she?
The first sight that greeted her was an old farmhouse. It resembled the kind she had only seen on television.
Within the yard stood a loquat tree, its branches reaching out. Two chicks busily pecked at the ground nearby. Green moss adorned the walls of the yard, lending it an ancient air.
Beneath the eaves, bamboo hats and raincoats hung, reminiscent of a bygone era. Outdated farming toolsy scattered in the corners.
When Qin Zhenzhen lowered her gaze, she noticed arge pool of blood on the ground. A sharp pain throbbed in her forehead.
Blood from her forehead still trickled down, prompting her to instinctively cover the wound with her hand.
Once she covered the wound, the bleeding seemed to abate, and the pain lessened.
However, she had no time to dwell on this inexplicable situation, as memories not her own flooded her mind.
It appeared she hade back to life and transmigrated!
Her original self shared the name Qin Zhenzhen and hailed from the Qin Family Vige in Datong Town. She was 15 years old, or rather, 14 and a half years old to be precise.
Three of her four brothers worked as butchers and bore thebel of troublemakers. They were all robust and sturdy.
As her family favored daughters, Qin Zhenzhen had been pampered by her parents and brothers from a young age. She grew up as an overweight girl,zy and ignorant, yet willful and impulsive.
The plump girl was fixated on appearances. When she encountered the handsome young man, Su Bin, in town, she was instantly captivated and insisted on marrying him.
The Qin family proposed the marriage, only to be rejected by Su Bin.
Refusing to surrender, the plump girl resorted to desperate measures. One day, she intercepted Su Bin on his way home and forcefully pushed him to the ground. In the process, her teeth inadvertently struck Su Bin¡¯s lips, causing them to bleed.
Infuriated, Su Bin¡¯s face turned a shade of green. He attempted to push her away, but in his haste, he ended up applying pressure to the wrong area.
A crowd had gathered to witness the spectacle. Blushing furiously, Su Bin found himself unable to defend his actions.
Capitalizing on their connection to someone in the county government office, the Qin family seized the opportunity to intimidate Su Bin. They threatened to report him for assaulting an innocent maiden and warned that his eligibility for the county examination would be revoked unless he agreed to marry the plump girl.
Chapter 2
Pain Neural on Strike
And so, the plump girl became Su Bin¡¯s wife, as stipted by the marriage contract.
However, from the day she entered the household, Su Bin had been away studying at West Mountain Academy, without returning home even once in the past two months. They had never shared a bed together.
The Su family, considered outsiders in the Qian Family Vige, had arrived when Su Bin¡¯s father married a girl from the vige and acquirednd there. They built a house and established connections before settling down.
The couple had six children¡ªtwo daughters and four sons. Unfortunately, their parents had passed away in an ident a year ago, leaving behind four underage children. Significant family decisions were made by the grandmother¡¯s family.
The arrangement of the marriage between the host and Su Bin was orchestrated by Su Bin¡¯s aunt, who had received benefits from the host¡¯s family.
Su Bin, as the third sibling, had an elder sister who was married, a second brother who was yet to be married, and three younger sisters.
Given the host¡¯s use of despicable methods to force the marriage with Su Bin, it was only natural for his siblings to harbor resentment towards her. They mocked and ridiculed her in various ways, intentionally making life difficult for her in hopes of provoking her enough to leave the Su family on her own ord.
Initially, the original host had put on a facade of being a virtuous person. However, it didn¡¯t take long for her true nature to emerge. She waszy, selfish, fierce, domineering, and imed everything good for herself.
On this particr afternoon, Su Cheng, Su Bin¡¯s fifth brother, had sneaked into her room and stolen all the pastries she had hidden. He shared them with his sixth sister, Su Ning.
The original host was infuriated. She chased after the siblings with a stick, threatening to beat them to death. In her rage, she swung the stick too forcefully, identally hitting a rock in the courtyard and losing her life in the process.
After receiving the memories of the original host, Qin Zhenzhen blinked. The original host had degraded herself for a man who didn¡¯t even love her, ultimately paying with her life.
However, Qin Zhenzhen believed that the host had brought this upon herself and there was no need for her to seek revenge.
Although Qin Zhenzhen found herself in the body of the chubby girl, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of joy. It was a blessing from God that she had been given a second chance at life with her memories intact.
She was determined to live a good life once again.
Furthermore, the current situation was not difficult to resolve.
All she had to do was call Su Bin back and immediately file for a divorce. Even if she would bebeled with a bad reputation, it was still better than spending the rest of her life with a man who didn¡¯t love her.
At that moment, Su Cheng and Su Ning cautiously approached and peered into the courtyard from the entrance.
Su Ning visibly sighed in relief upon seeing Qin Zhenzhen alive. A girl¡¯s heart was kinder, and she also worried about the trouble caused by someone dying in their house.
On the other hand, Su Cheng wore a look of disbelief. He muttered to himself, ¡°She¡¯s really resilient to survive after losing so much blood!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen knew that the siblings held deep hatred towards her. It was unrealistic to expect them to call a doctor and tend to her injuries.
She would have to rely on herself to get through this.
Observing Su Cheng and Su Ning retreat a few steps, ready to flee at any moment, Qin Zhenzhen understood their fear. They had experienced the fierceness of the original host firsthand.
However, in her present condition, shecked the strength to chase and strike them even if she wanted to.
Regardless, she needed to prioritize treating her wound first.
Qin Zhenzhen suddenly realized that the wound had stopped bleeding, and the pain hadpletely vanished. What¡¯s more, her head was no longer spinning.
She stood there in astonishment. It was truly extraordinary. Merely covering the wound with her hand had miraculously stopped the bleeding and alleviated the pain.
Could it be that the pain receptors in this body were no longer functioning?
Chapter 3
The Goldfinger
Puzzled, Qin Zhenzhen made her way to the room and intended to examine herself in the mirror to understand what was happening.
Her room used to belong to Su Bin, but now it served as their wedding chamber.
The wedding chamber was simply adorned.
Aside from recing old items with new ones, the wooden door and window paper were adorned with the word ¡°Happiness¡± in vibrant red.
The new bedding, pillows, cab, and a bronze mirror on the dressing table were all part of the dowry brought by the Host¡¯s family.
A plump face covered in blood greeted her reflection in the bronze mirror.
The wound near her left eyebrow, right by the corner of her eye, was sunken. It was the result of colliding with the edge of the stone. The wound ran deep and long, exining why the original host had lost her life.
If she were to visit a hospital, she would likely require four to five stitches.
Despite being a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t proficient in treating external injuries.
What should she do?
Though the bleeding had ceased, it was certain that a scar would be left behind.
Everyone valued their appearance, and Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t want such a noticeable scar. She brought her index finger and thumb together, attempting to close the wound, silently wishing for a pair of miraculous hands capable of smoothing it over.
A peculiar urrence unfolded before Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eyes. The wound, originally about a centimeter long, miraculously fused together. After releasing her finger, it remained sealed, no longer separating.
The previously deep trench on the skin¡¯s surface now appeared as a shallow scratch.
This was an improvement of several magnitudespared to getting stitches at the hospital!
Could it be that she truly possessed divine hands capable of healing external injuries?
Suppressing the astonishment in her heart, Qin Zhenzhen examined her fingers intently. She silently urged, ¡®Finger, oh finger! If you possess any magical powers, reveal them to me swiftly!¡¯
Just as she finished her plea, a tiny droplet of water materialized at the tip of her index finger.
She lifted the droplet to her nose and inhaled. It emitted a delicate, pleasant fragrance.
Was this celestial water? Capable of halting bleeding and pain, healing wounds, blending into the bloodstream, and even uplifting one¡¯s spirits?
She pondered how effective it would truly be.
Qin Zhenzhen stuck out her tongue and swallowed the water droplet without any hesitation. Instantly, a refreshing sensation washed over her.
So, it seemed that the mystical power resided in these small water droplets that materialized out of nowhere. This could very well be the legendary spiritual water.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter.
Ahahaha, what a remarkable substance!
Its effects, both externally and internally, were truly remarkable!
Furthermore, it was versatile. It would manifest promptly whenever she desired it, yet remain dormant and unspent when she didn¡¯t.
In her previous life, she didn¡¯t possess this miraculous substance, and it wasn¡¯t mentioned in the memories of the original host either. So, was this one of the fortuitous advantages of her random transmigration?
How lucky she was! With this enchanting element, the wound near her eye would undoubtedly leave no scar, even without stitches.
Moreover, she could employ this spiritual water to aplish countless feats and aid numerous people, ensuring a prosperous future for herself.
Qin Zhenzhen gleefully retrieved a handkerchief and moistened it with the water from the cup. She meticulously wiped away the blood stains from her face and hair.
Upon closer examination, this chubby face bore an astonishing resemnce to her appearance in junior high school¡ªabout 80% simrity!
This discovery brought even greater joy to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart.
So, not only did she share the same name as the original host, but she also possessed an identical physical appearance.
She was a natural beauty, untouched by the need for makeup in the modern world!
However, her chubby face hindered the full realization of her beauty.
And with her plump figure, she didn¡¯t quite achieve the cute and adorable look.
But once she managed to bring her weight down to below 50 kilograms, she would undoubtedly turn heads and captivate everyone¡¯s attention.
Observing Qin Zhenzhen through the window, Su Ning realized that she had regained consciousness and wasn¡¯t concerned about her dying anymore.
Yet, having stayed in the room for so long, curiosity got the better of Su Ning, and she couldn¡¯t resist the urge to take a closer look. However, she also feared the possibility of getting beaten for intruding.
Chapter 4
Why Did You Hit Them Again
As Su Ning anxiously waited, Qin Zhenzhen emerged from the room, her forehead now wrapped in a white gauze bandage.
The gauze had been discovered in the original host¡¯s belongings, and Qin Zhenzhen felt it necessary to cover the wound to avoid drawing attention to herself. She didn¡¯t want to be perceived as a monster in this parallel world simr to ancient Earth, even though mutants existed here.
With her wound treated and her chubby face clean, except for a small amount of blood staining the white gauze, Qin Zhenzhen appeared lively and in good spirits. The siblings were momentarily taken aback before quickly turning around and fleeing.
Had she really been that frightening?
Just as the siblings reached the courtyard entrance, they collided with a young man.
Qin Zhenzhen, equipped with the original host¡¯s memories, recognized him as Su Bin¡¯s second brother, Su Ping. At 18 years old, he bore a slight resemnce to Su Cheng and was considered good-looking among the younger generation in the vige.
Previously, he had learned some martial arts moves from a man. With his mediocre skills, he had sessfully made a group of scoundrels outside.
He did not do his job all day long, but he would asionally bring back a little money to provide for his younger siblings¡¯ living expenses. asionally, he would go hunting in the mountains to give his younger siblings a meal.
Today, he was going up the mountain to hunt, as he was carrying a wicker basket and a bow and arrow on his back.
Seeing the brother and sister running toward him in a panic, he looked up at Qin Zhenzhen and got instantly furious.
¡°Why are you hitting them again?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen retorted, ¡°When did you see me hitting them?¡±
¡°If you don¡¯t chase and beat them up, they will never run?¡±
When the siblings saw their second brother, they immediately stopped panicking.
That fat girl was still a little afraid of their second brother.
Su Cheng immediatelyined, ¡°Second Brother, she¡¯s lying. She just chased after Sixth Sister and me with a stick!¡±
Su Ning immediately rolled up her sleeves, revealing a greenish-purple spot. ¡°Second Brother, look, she hit me with a stick.¡±
She had run slowly just now and suffered a beating from the fat girl, which was very painful.
¡°My sixth sister is so young? How can you be so cruel? Don¡¯t think I won¡¯t hit a woman like you!¡±
As he spoke, he moved forward, trying to teach her a lesson.
Two months ago, he happened to be out of town with a group of unpleasant individuals. Seizing the opportunity, the Qin family exploited the situation and coerced his third brother into marrying an overweight girl whom he referred to disdainfully.
Had he been present at home, he would have never allowed them to have their way!
His third brother was not only tall but also exceptionally gifted. He was the family¡¯s hope, destined to achieve great things and reach remarkable heights. How could he be matched with this coarse and overweight girl? She simply wasn¡¯t deserving of him.
Refusing to let him intimidate her, Qin Zhenzhen responded coldly, ¡°Instead of assuming it was my fault without even asking, you should have inquired why I chased and confronted them. Is this your way of handling things?¡±
The original host had a fearless personality, primarily due to growing up with four bullying brothers.
¡°Why would she want to attack you? I demand the truth!¡±
Su Cheng could only provide an honest answer, ¡°Sixth Sister and I were so famished that we entered her room to take some pastries. In response, she cursed at us and chased us with a stick.¡±
His anger grew further. ¡°You¡¯re resorting to violence over mere food? Have you no humanity?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen countered, ¡°Taking something without permission is tantamount to stealing. If they start stealing needles now, they¡¯ll eventually steal gold when they grow up. I¡¯m educating them on your behalf!¡±
Fearing that he might resort to violence unless she presented a valid reason, Qin Zhenzhen chose not to engage in a fight with him just yet.
Chapter 5
A Forced Marriage
Qin Zhenzhen understood why he harbored such strong animosity towards her.
As the younger brother, Su Bin held a deep-seated belief that it was inappropriate for him to marry before his elder brother. Such a transgression would not only subject him to gossip and criticism but could also have serious implications for his future marriage prospects.
In addition to this societal taboo, Su Bin also felt a sense of injustice on behalf of his third brother.
Qin Zhenzhen continued to defend herself, insisting, ¡°I never intended to harm them fatally. I struck Su Ning because I lost my bnce and couldn¡¯t control the force.¡±
¡°If you doubt my words, feel free to ask them and verify the truth.¡±
Su Ping nced at the bandage wrapped around Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s head, observing the faint traces of blood. His gaze then shifted to the pool of blood on the floor, causing his brow to furrow.
¡°Did she truly¡ bleed?¡±
The sight of therge pool of blood was both rming and potentially life-threatening, yet Qin Zhenzhen acted as if it were inconsequential.
Su Ning nodded in affirmation. ¡°She was the one who bled. She had a fall.¡±
¡°As their third sister-inw, it is only fair for you to provide for their needs when they are hungry!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen immediately agreed, vigorously nodding. ¡°Absolutely! I¡¯ve always believed in that principle. However, they¡¯ve never treated me as the third sister-inw. Since they view me as an outsider, taking my belongings amounts to theft, wouldn¡¯t you agree?¡±
¡°I have been residing in your household for two months, and I have been responsible for purchasing all the food and items I have consumed. Su Cheng even went as far as hiding the salt in the kitchen.¡±
He struggled to find his words, his voice catching in his throat.
Su Ning¡¯s expression turned strained, her difort evident. What she had spoken was nothing but the truth. They had indeed treated Qin Zhenzhen as an outsider and stolen her pastries.
Su Cheng countered with a flushed face, ¡°You used our firewood and the water I fetched. You even took over my third brother¡¯s room!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded with a gentle smile. ¡°I¡¯ll convert those into mary value and repay you. Once Su Bin returns, we can proceed with the divorce.¡±
¡°After the divorce, how about we let bygones be bygones?¡±
¡°Are you certain about wanting a divorce?¡±
Putting it mildly, divorce was a challenging situation. It would be exceedingly difficult for a divorced woman to remarry, as respectable families were unlikely to consider marrying someone with a divorce in their past.
Furthermore, hadn¡¯t she forcibly married his third brother with the hope that he would achieve fame one day, granting her social status and prestige as a wife?
Who would believe that she would give up so easily!
Qin Zhenzhen nodded solemnly. ¡°I have considered it thoroughly. A coerced marriage can never be fulfilling. Why don¡¯t you send a message to Su Bin and ask him toe home for a divorce?¡±
He gazed at her intently for a while, still struggling to believe that she would give up so readily.
Su Cheng anxiously tugged at his second brother¡¯s clothes, whispering a reminder, ¡°She might have deceived Third Brother into returning home and forcefully engaging in intimate rtions. She is strong, and Third Brother might be at a disadvantage¡¡±
Su Ping had an epiphany, his expression filled with disdain as he looked at Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen found herself at a loss for words. Su Cheng, that brat, was truly asking for trouble. How could he misconstrue her intentions like this?
Ignoring Qin Zhenzhen, Su Ping unburdened himself of the basket on his back.
Observing that the basket didn¡¯t appear empty, Su Ning asked excitedly, ¡°What did Second Brother manage to hunt today?¡±
¡°Today was an unlucky day for me. I didn¡¯t catch anything,¡± Su Ping replied with a touch of disappointment.
Su Ning and Su Cheng shared in the disappointment.
It had been quite a while since theyst had meat to eat.
Their familycked the financial means to purchase pork, so they relied on the hope that Second Brother would bring back some game to fulfill their cravings. Even a small bird would have sufficed.
Sadly, Second Brother seldom ventured into the mountains, and most of the time he returned empty-handed.
¡°I¡¯ve set up a trap in the mountains. I¡¯ll head up there tomorrow. Maybe I¡¯ll find something,¡± Su Ping reassured his siblings softly, noting the dejected expressions on their faces.
Chapter 6
Transmigrated into a Book
Su Ning leaped up in sheer delight. ¡°That¡¯s fantastic! Second Brother is amazing! We¡¯ll have meat tomorrow!¡±
Her hopeful demeanor stirred a pang of guilt within him.
Normally, he didn¡¯t pay much attention to the family. He often fought alongside his brothers and squandered his earnings at the casino. While he could indulge in plenty of food, he rarely saved any money.
Even if they had money, they would spend it on food, drinks, and enjoying themselves with their brothers. In short, they seldom brought money home.
He lowered the basket andforted his sister. ¡°I didn¡¯t manage to catch anything, but I gathered a lot of fruits. They¡¯re incredibly sweet.¡±
It was autumn, and most of the wild fruits on the mountain were ripe. Some were sour, while others were sweet, and he had collected a variety of them.
Su Ning¡¯s eyes lit up as she saw the vibrant red wild fruits, instantly regaining her excitement.
¡°Wow, so many wild fruits!¡±
¡°Second Brother is the best!¡±
Just then, a youth of around 16 years old appeared at the courtyard entrance.
Qin Zhenzhen nced over and her eyes widened. The young man was dressed in a simple white cotton robe, exuding an air of schrly elegance. One could almost describe him as ethereal.
With a straight nose bridge, tightly closed thin lips, and slightly upturned eyes that emitted an air of reserved coldness, he possessed the appearance of a refined and aloof being.
Such a breathtakingly beautiful young man seemed like a heavenly creation, rarely seen in the mortal realm. No wonder the original host had been captivated by him.
Su Ning eagerly weed him. ¡°Third Brother! You¡¯re finally home!¡±
¡°It¡¯s been so long since west saw each other!¡±
It was all that shameless, overweight woman¡¯s fault for coercing a marriage with Third Brother. That was why he had been unwilling to return home for the past two months.
Su Bin¡¯s expression shifted, but he replied warmly, ¡°Ning¡¯er, I¡¯m d to see you¡¯re doing well!¡±
Ever since he got married, he had been staying at West Mountain Academy and hadn¡¯te home for two months.
He truly didn¡¯t want to face that plump girl at home.
However, this morning, he had received a message informing him that Sixth Sister was critically ill and bedridden. She was on the verge of death andcked the funds to call for a doctor.
Worried about Sixth Sister¡¯s condition, he had decided to take the ox cart back home.
But now, upon seeing that Sixth Sister wasn¡¯t ill at all, Su Bin began to piece things together.
This must have been the scheme concocted by the girl¡¯s brothers. They tricked him into returning home to settle scores with him, coercing him into sleeping with their sister.
Hmph! Even if he returned home, he would nevery a finger on that plump girl!
He had already moved his personal belongings to the study. From now on, whenever he came home, he would only sleep in the study.
If she dared to force a marriage on him, she had to be prepared to spend her life in an empty room!
Su Ning whispered to Su Bin, ¡°Third Brother, she just mentioned that she¡¯s willing to divorce you.¡±
Su Cheng immediately interjected, correcting him. ¡°Third Brother, I believe she¡¯s lying! She just asked Second Brother to send you a message toe home and get a divorce, but I suspect her true intention is to force herself upon you¡¡±
¡°Enough!¡±
Su Bin stared at Qin Zhenzhen with cold eyes.
Was she truly that desperate to sleep with him?
However, he soon noticed a change in her demeanor. In the past, she would shamelessly throw herself at him upon seeing him.
But now, she simply regarded him with a calm gaze. There was a glimmer of astonishment in her eyes, but her infatuation seemed to have faded.
Yet, he couldn¡¯t ignore the small piece of white gauze on her forehead, tainted with a hint of blood. How did she get injured?
¡®Who did this to her?¡¯
Disgust welled up within Su Bin as he turned his gaze away from her.
As he averted his eyes, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mind was thrown into chaos. She nearly froze in ce, petrified by the realization.
The coldness in his eyes¡ªit resembled the eyes of a viin!
Suddenly, it dawned on her that the current situation bore an uncanny resemnce to a time-travel novel she had read before!
Su Ping, Su Bin, Su Cheng, Su Ning¡ Their names even matched.
Yes! She had transmigrated into a book!
Su Bin, the beautiful viin of the story, was wicked and cruel. In the end, he met his demise at the hands of the male and female protagonists.
None of his siblings fared well in that story either.
Chapter 7
Why Should I Hide From Them?
Initially, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t fully immerse herself in the novel because the original character was merely a nameless cannon fodder. She had only used the Qin family as a substitute.
In the novel, the description of the viin¡¯s past was brief, as it wasn¡¯t the main focus of the plot.
Due to Su Bin¡¯s striking good looks, he had unfortunately caught the infatuated eye of Qin Shi when he was just 16 years old and was forced into marriage.
However, because he despised Qin Shi, he never consummated the marriage. He spent two months staying at the academy and didn¡¯t return home.
Qin Shi had gone back home and cried, prompting her four brothers toe up with a scheme. They fabricated a story that Su Bin¡¯s sixth sister was gravely ill, deceiving Su Bin intoing home to demand an exnation.
Unexpectedly, on the day Su Bin returned, Qin Shi identally died while kowtowing in the courtyard. Her four brothers happened to be present and concluded that she had been killed by Su Bin¡¯s family.
With the Qin brothers harboring intentions to avenge Qin Shi¡¯s death by killing Su Bin and burying him alongside her, Su Bin¡¯s second brother and younger siblings naturally stepped in to protect him.
In the ensuing chaotic confrontation, one of the Qin brothers suffered a life-threatening stab wound to the waist. He never regained his mobility and remained bedridden.
Fearing legal repercussions, Su Ping had no choice but to flee. In the end, he sought refuge in the mountains and became a bandit leader, leading his men in acts of arson, murder, and plunder. Ultimately, he met his demise at the hands of the male lead in the book.
The Qin family suffered significant losses, but they couldn¡¯t sessfully convict Su Bin. Their only option was to seekpensation for the damages incurred.
Su Bin waspelled topensate the Qian Family Vige with their house andnd, which he had to rent out. With his younger siblings, he relocated to a small rented house in the county.
Besides his studies at the academy, Su Bin had to engage in various odd jobs, such as copying books for bookstores and creating drawings for others, just to make ends meet and support his family. Their days were filled with financial constraints and hardships.
As for his fifth brother, Su Cheng, who used to enjoy farming, he found himself with no purpose in the county city after losing theirnd. In an unfortunate turn of events, he unwittingly became involved in theft and was caught, ultimately meeting a fatal beating.
Su Qing, their fourth brother, had been an apprentice in the county¡¯s opera troupe. While he was well-fed during his apprenticeship, he never received any wages. However, during the chaotic confrontation, Su Qing discovered that the Qin brothers had grievously injured him, causing permanent damage. This incident left him mentally unhinged, developing perverse tendencies.
Su Ning¡¯s situation was rtively better. With Su Bin¡¯s rise in power, she transformed into a wealthy youngdy.
However, in the novel, she yed the role of a lovestruck supporting character who became infatuated with the male protagonist¡¯s beauty and directly opposed the female protagonist. She faced severe torment and was subjected to a merciless beating by the female protagonist. In the end, Su Bin himself met his demise at the hands of the male and female protagonists, acting in unison.
As these thoughts flooded Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mind, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a growing sense of unease.
Amidst the tension and uncertainty, Qin Zhenzhen observed the situation unfolding before her. The original host¡¯s brothers were on the verge of arriving, which could potentially lead to a chaotic confrontation as depicted in the plot.
However, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s presence as the new host might alter the course of events. The probability of the brothers impulsively wanting to kill Su Bin would likely decrease now that they saw their sister alive.
Nevertheless, the fact that Su Bin had distanced himself from the original host after their marriage was a significant issue. If this matter were to escte, it could easily result in a confrontation.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mind raced, considering the best course of action. If a fight were to break out, the situation would undoubtedly spiral out of control.
In an instant, these thoughts surged through Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mind, and she understood the imminent danger.
Before Su Bin could enter the house, his fourth brother, Su Qing, rushed back in a panic.
Upon seeing Su Bin, Su Qing urgently grabbed his arm and pulled him aside. ¡°Third Brother, quickly retreat to the backyard and hide! Her four brothers and two sisters-inw are on their way here. I fear they might intend harm upon you!¡±
Knowing that his brother and sister-inw had never consummated their marriage, Su Qing deduced that their arrival was likely rted to this matter.
Su Bin forcefully shook off Su Qing¡¯s grasp, his expression darkening. ¡°Why should I hide from them?¡±
He had already allowed Qin Zhenzhen to join the Su family and granted her a certain status in order to preserve her eligibility for the county examination. What more did they want from him?
Chapter 8
The Brothers Who Spoiled His Sister Without Principles
Su Bin nced at Qin Zhenzhen once again, puzzled by her reluctance to go out and wee her brothers and sisters-inw. Why was this fat girl acting differently now?
Su Ping clenched his fists, showing his support for Su Bin. ¡°Exactly! With Second Brother here, Third Brother has nothing to fear! Whoever dares to attack Third Brother will have to deal with me!¡±
He seemed ready to start a fight.
Qin Zhenzhen nced at Su Ping, recognizing his violent nature. Among the siblings, he was the most uncontroble and aggressive. If a fight were to break out, he would be the most difficult to restrain.
Three of the original host¡¯s four brothers were known for their strength and had a reputation as troublemakers. Their martial prowess was not to be underestimated, and they werebeled as viins.
If Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t intervene, it was highly likely that a fight would erupt.
Realizing that she needed to remove therge pool of blood in the courtyard before her brothers noticed it, Qin Zhenzhen prepared to clean it up. However, it was toote.
The four brothers and two sisters-inw had already arrived at the entrance of the courtyard.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s elder brother, Qin Dalong, rushed to the front and his eyes widened as if he had made a significant discovery.
¡°Zhenzhen, why is your forehead bleeding? Did they hurt you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen quickly shook her head.
¡°Su Bin, you scoundrel! As a schr, you have the audacity to strike your wife!¡± Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s second brother, Qin Erlong, was even more incensed. He reached out to grab Su Bin¡¯s shirt, intending to teach him a lesson, but he was stopped.
¡°Stop spouting nonsense! My third brother just arrived from school and hasn¡¯t even entered the house yet. How could he have hit her!¡±
Third Brother Qin Sanlong¡¯s voice thundered, overpowering the others. ¡°If it wasn¡¯t Su Bin, could it have been you few? Who gave you the audacity toy a hand on my sister?¡±
Qin Silong clenched his fist, his anger evident. ¡°Su Ping, don¡¯t think that everyone will cower in fear just because you¡¯ve learned some insignificant martial arts! Let me tell you, our fists are not made of paper!¡±
¡°Then let¡¯s find out whose fist is stronger!¡± Su Ping retorted defiantly.
Qin Zhenzhen was at a loss for words. The original host¡¯s four brothers were indeed troublemakers. They seemed ready to fight as soon as they arrived.
Sensing the imminent sh, Qin Zhenzhen rushed over and pleaded, ¡°Second Brother, Third Brother, let¡¯s talk calmly. They didn¡¯t harm me. I identally bumped into a rock.¡±
However, Qin Erlong remained skeptical. ¡°Zhenzhen, are you trying to appease them? Are you too afraid to tell us that you were actually assaulted?¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry, you have nothing to fear. Regardless of who¡¯s right or wrong, if they dare toy a hand on you, we¡¯ll give them ten times the payback!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t know whether tough or cry at their overprotective nature.
She had witnessed siblings who doted on their younger sister, but never had she seen such blind affection from a brother.
Qin Zhenzhen reiterated once more, hoping to make them understand. ¡°I genuinely bumped into a rock identally!¡±
At that moment, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sister-inw, Wang Lan, eximed, ¡°Why is there so much blood here? Zhenzhen, did you hit this rock?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s brother and sister-inw hurried towards the stone and were taken aback when they saw the sizable pool of blood.
¡°Zhenzhen, did you bleed?¡± her eldest brother inquired anxiously.
Qin Zhenzhen was at a loss for words.
¡°It must be! This is human blood!¡± Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eldest brother¡¯s expression contorted. With years of experience in ughtering pigs, he could easily distinguish between human and animal blood.
¡°Zhenzhen, tell me the truth. Is this your blood?¡± The four brothers and two sisters-inw directed their gazes at her, awaiting her response.
Qin Zhenzhen could only confess guiltily, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s mine, but the wound is not severe. It has stopped bleeding. Look, there isn¡¯t much blood on my bandage, right?¡±
Chapter 9
I¡¯m Willing to Divorce
To promote peace, Qin Zhenzhen went as far as untangling the gauze and examining her brothers¡¯ wounds.
Upon seeing the wounds, the brothers were perplexed. The injuries seemed so superficial, yet there was an rming amount of blood. Did Zhenzhen use something like chicken blood to frighten Su Bin?
Despite their doubts, they ultimately felt reassured and decided not to pursue the matter further.
Although Su Bin hadn¡¯t seen the wound himself, he cast a nce at the pool of blood and found himself puzzled.
This plump girl was undeniably energetic. Even after losing so much blood, she disyed no signs of fatigue!
He had just discovered the cause of the injury on her forehead.
Based on her past behavior, she would undoubtedly have informed her brother about his fifth brother and sixth sister stealing her pastries.
However, she made no mention of it just now, almost as if she deliberately chose to conceal it for the sake of peace.
Was she attempting to change her approach to reform him?
Soon after, the Qin brothers pushed their sister-inw, Wang Lan, forward.
Wang Lan got straight to the point. ¡°Su Bin, we¡¯vee here today to ask you why you haven¡¯t consummated your marriage with our Zhenzhen.¡±
Confronted by the four intimidating brothers-inw, Su Bin remained unfazed. He responded coldly, ¡°I haven¡¯t finished my studies yet, so I don¡¯t want any distractions!¡±
At that moment, evening had arrived. The vigers had already finished their work and returned home. Upon hearing that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s family had arrived, they all gathered outside Su Bin¡¯s house to witness themotion.
As Wang Lan posed her question and Su Bin gave his answer, a collective chuckle arose in the hearts of the onlookers.
So it turned out that Su Bin and his wife had yet to consummate their marriage!
She had the audacity to bring her family along and stir up trouble.
But she was shameless, willing to do anything without hesitation.
Qin Dalong was furious as he shouted, ¡°This is clearly an excuse! Is it humane to marry my sister and leave her alone in an empty room?¡±
¡°Do you n to confine my sister to an empty room and then falsely use her before divorcing her?¡±
Su Bin maintained his cold gaze on Qin Dalong and remained silent.
His expression seemed to confirm Qin Dalong¡¯s suspicions.
Qin Dalong was livid. ¡°If that¡¯s what you want, then you¡¯ll have to get past my Pig ughtering Knife first!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t you dare harm my third brother! I swear I¡¯ll ughter you like a pig!¡±
¡°Look at how shameless you are! You used despicable means to force my third brother into this marriage. It¡¯s already a favor that you let him marry into your family, but now you have so many demands!¡±
Qin Erlong sneered, ¡°This matter concerns my sister and your brother. Why are you interfering?¡±
¡°You don¡¯t even have the ability to get married, yet you¡¯re scheming to create discord between your brother and sister-inw. I can¡¯t fathom your intentions¡¡±
¡°Enough! Just shut up!¡±
Su Ping¡¯s self-control wavered, and he was on the verge of lunging at Qin Erlong to teach him a lesson.
Not again! It¡¯s going to trigger the same old storyline!
Luckily, Qin Zhenzhen was prepared. She pushed her second brother aside and positioned herself in front of Su Ping. She yelled, ¡°Stop arguing! It doesn¡¯t matter if we share a room or not! I¡¯m willing to get a divorce!¡±
She couldn¡¯t bear the repetitive pattern where conflicts escted so easily.
If Su Ping didn¡¯t resolve the issue of sharing a room with her, the cycle of fights would continue.
However, Su Ping had no intention of agreeing to sleep with her, let alone stay married.
The only solution was a swift divorce.
Everyone was taken aback by her words.
She had gone to great lengths andpromised her pride to marry Su Ping, but now she wanted a divorce?
Qin Dalong was the first to react. He gazed at his sister with a mix of emotions, and realizing she wasn¡¯t joking, he turned his re towards Su Ping.
Chapter 10
They¡¯re Obviously at a Disadvantage
¡°Su Bin! My sister used to be deeply in love with you. Just two months ago, she would rather die than marry you. But now she has changed her mind and wants a divorce!¡±
¡°This can only mean that you did something horrifying to her. Su Bin, you call yourself a schr! Yet, you resorted to dirty tricks. I won¡¯t let you off the hook!¡± Qin Dalong eximed.
As he spoke, Qin Dalong pushed Qin Zhenzhen aside and lunged at Su Bin, ready to teach him a lesson.
It seemed inevitable that one of them would throw a punch, while the other would attempt to intervene. The situation was heading toward a full-blown brawl.
The three Qin brothers clenched their fists, prepared to join the fight at any moment. Su Qing and Su Cheng were no exceptions.
Meanwhile, Su Ning was frightened to the point of tears. ¡°Please don¡¯t fight¡ Please!¡±
Being just a young girl, she couldn¡¯t do much to help.
On the other side, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s family consisted of several strong and healthy individuals. It was evident that they had the advantage in a physical confrontation.
Unexpectedly, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s brother pushed her away, forcing her to resort to her trump card. She shouted, ¡°Brother, stop fighting! If you hit me again, I¡¯ll bang my head against the wall and kill myself!¡±
Actions required cooperation from both sides. If her brother heeded her words, there wouldn¡¯t be a group fight today.
As expected, Qin Dalong halted his attack.
Qin Erlong¡¯s heart pained as he turned to Qin Zhenzhen and asked, ¡°Zhenzhen, what kind of threat did someone impose on you? Please tell Second Brother.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I haven¡¯t been threatened. I¡¯ve simply done some soul-searching. A marriage that is forced upon me will never bring happiness, so I want a divorce!¡±
However, Qin Dalong was adamant, refusing to ept her decision. ¡°If you divorce, it may be difficult for you to find another marriage prospect. No respectable family will be willing to marry a divorced woman.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied firmly, ¡°I¡¯d rather face that uncertainty than spend my life with someone who doesn¡¯t love me.¡±
¡°Moreover, I no longer love him. Why should I hold on to him and suppress myself?¡± Qin Zhenzhen continued firmly.
A passing fortune-teller had predicted that Qin Zhenzhen would lead a prosperous life. It was foretold that her husband¡¯s status would bring fortune to her and even elevate her brothers¡¯ positions in society.
Believing the fortune-teller¡¯s words and their deep affection for their sister, the four Qin brothers had pushed for Su Bin to marry Zhenzhen after the previous incident. Their main objective was to ensure a bright future for their sister.
Now, witnessing their sister giving up, Qin Dalong¡¯s heart ached. Had they made a mistake?
¡°Zhenzhen, you im you were not threatened, yet you also admitted to not loving him anymore. Your bitterness is evident,¡± Qin Dalong said with a pained expression.
Qin Zhenzhen hurriedly responded, ¡°I have considered everything and made the decision on my own. I don¡¯t feel bitter because I have chosen to let go. If I were to remain in the Su family, I would be unhappy for the rest of my life.¡±
¡°Su Bin¡ If he never wants to sleep with me, I would not force him to do. So, I have thought it through. He is not the only man in the world.¡±
¡°In the future, I want to find a man whom I truly love and who loves me in return. Only then can I find true happiness.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words carried a genuine sincerity. She was determined to convince her four brothers to support her in getting a divorce.
The four Qin brothers cherished their sister immensely. Regardless of the situation, they would stand by her side and listen to her. However, divorce was a significant matter that required careful consideration before reaching a decision.
Qin Dalong spoke with a grim expression, ¡°Zhenzhen, if you truly want a divorce, I as the elderst brother will not object. But before you proceed, I must stand up for you!¡±
After all, the fault stilly with Su Bin! Who would marry a wife and live separately for two months?
Who could endure such a situation?
Qin Silong gritted his teeth and dered, ¡°We must teach him a lesson to avenge Zhenzhen!¡±
Qin Erlong echoed his sentiment, ¡°Absolutely right! He is a schr! He agreed to marry Zhenzhen but left her in an empty room. He has humiliated Zhenzhen like this! If I don¡¯t teach him a lesson, I won¡¯t be able to quell my anger!¡±
Chapter 11
Did You Crash Your Brain?
Qin Dalong did not object to the idea of physically harming Qin Zhenzhen. Instead, he turned to his wife and sister-inw, instructing them to protect Zhenzhen and prevent her from interfering with their n to teach Su Bin a lesson.
His intentions were clear. He wanted his sisters-inw to keep a close watch on Qin Zhenzhen and ensure that she wouldn¡¯t hinder them from carrying out their actions against Su Bin.
Initially, he suspected that his sister was feigning disapproval in order to gain favor with Su Bin.
Understanding his message, the two sisters-inw swiftly restrained Qin Zhenzhen from both sides.
Su Ping and his two brothers prepared themselves to retaliate.
¡°If you dare to touch my younger brother,e forward if you¡¯re not afraid of the consequences!¡±
Su Bin observed coldly, unable toprehend Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s motives.
Qin Zhenzhen found herself in a dilemma. She genuinely suggested a divorce, but was it impossible to avoid a confrontation?
It couldn¡¯t be. Was the storyline in this book so resistant to change?
Speaking of which, if they refrained from fighting, how could a tragedy ur? If Su Bin¡¯s siblings weren¡¯t subjected to such misery, how could Su Bin transform into a viin?
Qin Zhenzhen had no choice but to retract her statement.
¡°Forget it, I¡¯m not pursuing a divorce! I merely spoke out of anger!¡±
¡°Brother, please don¡¯t harm Su Bin either! Su Bin hasn¡¯t done anything wrong. With the uing exam in just two weeks, it¡¯s crucial to remain focused!¡±
¡°Sleeping in separate rooms for now is inconsequential. Considering our young age, it¡¯s actually more appropriate for us not to share a room.¡±
Everyone was taken aback. Was Qin Zhenzhen mentally unstable?
Moments ago, Qin Zhenzhen had expressed genuine intentions to divorce Su Bin, but now she was retracting her own words?
Su Bin¡¯s expression turned extremely sour.
When she initially mentioned the divorce, he had believed her wholeheartedly. He thought she was afraid of spending the rest of her life in an empty room. But who could have guessed that she had spoken out of anger!
He felt like Qin Zhenzhen was toying with him, making a fool out of him.
However, with her four brothers present and their imposing fists, he could only suppress his hatred for the time being.
Qin Zhenzhen had no time to concern herself with Su Bin¡¯s feelings. She quickly walked over to her brother¡¯s side and pulled him aside, speaking softly to exin herself.
¡°Big Brother, you¡¯re not helping me by shouting and being aggressive like this. You¡¯re only causing harm to me!¡±
¡°Using force against him will only make Su Bin resent me even more¡¡±
Qin Dalong asked with curiosity, ¡°Zhenzhen, did you hit your head or something?¡±
Just a moment ago, she had expressed a strong desire for a divorce, and now she was saying she didn¡¯t want one.
¡°That¡¯s not what you said two days ago. You wanted us to trick him intoing home. You even suggested beating him up, but avoid hitting his face,¡± Qin Dalong reminded her.
Qin Zhenzhen quickly replied, ¡°I said those things in a moment of desperation. Truthfully, I couldn¡¯t bear the thought of you hurting him.¡±
¡°Besides, I¡¯vee to realize that he¡¯s someone who can be persuaded but not coerced. We shouldn¡¯t resort to force in the future. I¡¯ll find a way to handle him.¡±
Qin Dalong wanted to say something, but hesitated. He wanted to tell his sister that Su Bin was a cold-hearted person, not easily swayed by either kindness or force. It was nearly impossible to tame him.
The only way might be to forcefully conceive a child with him. That might make things easier.
However, when he observed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s self-assured expression, he found it difficult to harm her.
Qin Zhenzhen seized the opportunity to persuade him once again. ¡°Eldest Brother, please take Brother and Sister-inw back with you!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry about me being at a disadvantage. Except for his second brother, who poses a slight challenge, no one else in his family can match me.¡±
The five of them had inherited their ancestors¡¯ teachings and possessed strength several times greater than ordinary individuals.
In a physical confrontation, he alone could handle three opponents.
ording to the original storyline, the Qin brothers wouldn¡¯t have lost if Su Bin didn¡¯t possess a sword.
Qin Dalong hesitated to leave just like that. ¡°We can¡¯t postpone the matter of separate rooms any longer¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen interrupted him. ¡°Let¡¯s set aside the issue of separate rooms for now. Su Bin¡¯s exam is in two weeks. We shouldn¡¯t pressure him. Besides, he¡¯s as thin as a monkey at the moment. We can sleep together after he gains some weight!¡±
Chapter 12
Forced Marriage
¡°Brother, I¡¯m begging you. Please go home quickly. Don¡¯t make Su Bin hate me even more!¡±
Unable to withstand his sister¡¯s pleas, Qin Dalong reluctantly agreed.
¡°Then we¡¯ll head back home for now. We can discuss the separate room matter after he finishes his exam. Just remember, don¡¯t let him take advantage of you at his house!¡±
¡°Yes, I promise I won¡¯t let him take advantage!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen saw her brothers and sisters-inw off, ensuring they left the premises.
Upon hearing the conversation between Qin Zhenzhen and her brother, the vigers couldn¡¯t help but discuss amongst themselves.
¡°There¡¯s something seriously wrong with that chubby girl¡¯s brain. She¡¯s shameless. Can she really not see that Su Bin isn¡¯tcking in flesh?¡±
¡°Haha, you¡¯re right. A man being thin isn¡¯t a bad thing. His bones won¡¯t hurt anyone, you know?¡±
¡°But the main point is that Su Bin isn¡¯t even that thin.¡±
¡°Compared to her, he must seem incredibly slim.¡±
¡°Hahaha¡ It¡¯s too hrious! We can¡¯t stopughing!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen paid no attention to the vigers¡¯ chatter and confidently walked into the house.
Once Su Binprehended the entire situation, he reprimanded his fifth brother and sixth sister with a stern expression. ¡°Stop taking her belongings without permission!¡±
The chubby girl cherished food so much that taking even a piece of her pastry was akin to taking her life. That¡¯s why she was so anxious that she ended up knocking her head against the stone.
Fortunately, she didn¡¯t perish from her kowtows. If she had, he wouldn¡¯t have had to take the exam.
If her four brothers didn¡¯t beat him to a pulp, they would beat him until he couldn¡¯t get up.
Su Ning and Su Cheng lowered their heads, acknowledging their mistake. ¡°We understand that we were wrong. We won¡¯t do it again.¡±
The young and old siblings fell into line. Qin Zhenzhen knew she had to listen to her third brother.
Su Bin questioned once more, ¡°Did she really lose all that blood?¡±
His doubts still lingered in his mind.
By all reasoning, with such a substantial amount of blood, the wound must have been deep. He might have even copsed from such an injury.
However, he paid close attention to the bandage on her head. There was only a small trace of blood, and he hadn¡¯t called a doctor to treat her. How did she manage to tend to her wound?
Furthermore, she seemed to be in aposed state of mind.
What made it even stranger was that she appeared to be a different person now. Her way of handling matters waspletely altered from before. He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was amiss.
Su Ning nodded. ¡°It was all her blood. Initially, I was worried she might have died. She looked as though she was on the verge of death. But after she went into the room and came out, she seemed to return to her usual self.¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but think she was some sort of monster for surviving after losing so much blood.
At that moment, Qin Zhenzhen entered the house and approached Su Bin directly. She locked eyes with him. ¡°I have something to discuss with you.¡±
Su Bin gazed back at her with cold indifference. ¡°What is it?¡±
It was those very eyes that had taken an interest in him. One day, he would extract those eyes from her!
¡°Let¡¯s talk in the study,¡± Qin Zhenzhen proposed.
Avoiding Su Bin¡¯s hateful re, she turned and headed towards the study.
A cruel glint shed in Su Bin¡¯s eyes.
What did she have in mind?
Even if she intended to force herself on him, going to the study was an inappropriate choice!
The siblings¡¯ minds raced in that direction, and their expressions turned grim.
Su Qing anxiously cautioned him, ¡°Third Brother, you shouldn¡¯t go to the study. I suspect she wants to use force¡¡±
However, Su Bin had already made his way to the study, wearing a dark expression.
He might fear her four brothers to some extent, but why should he fear her?
If that chubby girl dared toy a finger on him, he would use the inkstone to crack her skull!
She shouldn¡¯t assume he was powerless just because he appeared feeble!
Su Bin remained on guard the entire time. Unexpectedly, Qin Zhenzhen got straight to the point. ¡°Su Bin, let¡¯s get a divorce. I¡¯m being sincere!¡±
¡°The reason I changed my mind earlier was that I didn¡¯t want a confrontation between our families.¡±
¡°Truth be told, I¡¯ve already made up my mind. A forced marriage can never be sweet.¡±
¡°Furthermore, I don¡¯t love you anymore.¡±
She had already expressed this once, and now she reiterated it with even greater emphasis.
Chapter 13
What Is She Thinking of?
Su Bin¡¯s cold gaze narrowed as he stared at Qin Zhenzhen for a prolonged moment before firmly rejecting her plea. ¡°You want a divorce? No way!¡±
Regardless of whether Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s intentions were genuine or not, Su Bin would not entertain the idea.
With the exam just two weeks away, he refused toplicate matters further. This was a critical moment, and he couldn¡¯t let anything hinder his focus!
He had already endured humiliation and allowed her to enter the house to ensure it wouldn¡¯t affect his exam.
His only way out was through the imperial examination. He couldn¡¯t allow her to block his path.
Qin Zhenzhen quickly proposed apensation for his emotional distress. ¡°What if I offer you marypensation? Even if I have made mistakes in the past, I hope you can be magnanimous and let bygones be bygones after our divorce.¡±
She understood that changing the plot in the book would be challenging. The role of the viin was deeply ingrained. She had to think for the sake of the entire family and distance herself from Su Bin.
However, Su Bin, despite notprehending Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s motives, coldly rejected her once again. ¡°Stop dreaming!¡±
No amount of money could make up for the humiliation he had endured. He was determined to repay the humiliation she had inflicted upon him tenfold!
Qin Zhenzhen was puzzled. ¡°You don¡¯t like me. Why don¡¯t you want a divorce?¡±
In this world, the scales tipped heavily in favor of men. A divorced man could still achieve great sess, but a divorced woman faced significant societal barriers.
Su Bin contemted:
Even if Qin Zhenzhen was telling the truth, it would not be wise to pursue a divorce at this moment. Her four brothers would not let Su Bin off easily, and it would not be worth it if it affected his uing exam.
When she had wanted to marry him, she shamelessly resorted to force. Now that she no longer loved him, she wanted an immediate divorce. Did she think she was the Retired Emperor?
Hmph!
Once he had power and influence, he would make sure to torment and eliminate those who crossed him without attracting any legal consequences. He would definitely make her experience a life worse than death!
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin locked eyes, and she could sense the hidden intent to kill within his gaze.
For a moment, she was stunned. It turned out that the Host had already caused Su Bin unforgivable harm.
It became evident that the viin was on the brink of embracing his dark side.
¡°Listen carefully, if you provoke me, there will be no escape for you in this lifetime!¡±
Su Bin¡¯s response was filled with unmistakable hatred.
After a brief pause, he added, ¡°If you dare to interfere with my exam, I will strangle you to death!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen finally understood why Su Bin adamantly refused the divorce. Not only was he concerned about her brothers seeking revenge and jeopardizing his exam, but he also desired revenge against her!
He could keep her trapped, forcing her to live a deste existence in an empty room for the rest of her life. Alternatively, he could subject her to various forms of torture and torment.
He had just made it clear that if she provoked him, she would never escape from the consequences for the rest of her life!
This was how a true viin thought.
Qin Zhenzhen was still too naive to believe that she could resolve the conflict by taking the initiative to propose a divorce.
Well, for now, I won¡¯t provoke him any further.
Pretending not to notice Su Bin¡¯s desire for revenge, Qin Zhenzhen spoke to him, ¡°Alright then. We¡¯ll proceed with the divorce after you pass the Elementary Schr examination.¡±
In the next half month, she hoped to find a way to mend their rtionship and alleviate his hatred.
Perhaps by taking good care of his younger siblings.
With that thought in mind, Qin Zhenzhen calmly walked out of the study room.
Observing her departure, Su Bin fell into deep contemtion.
She seemed to have be more cunning, yet also foolishly unaware.
Couldn¡¯t she sense the deep-rooted hatred he harbored for her?
Su Cheng and the others, who had been eavesdropping outside the study, were equally puzzled.
What was she nning?
Su Ning¡¯s thoughts were more straightforward. She couldn¡¯t help but whisper, ¡°Our Third Brother is truly the cleverest. If we leave her hanging for two months, she won¡¯t be able to take it anymore.¡±
¡°But why didn¡¯t Third Brother agree to the divorce?¡± Su Cheng questioned.
Su Cheng snorted in response. ¡°Third Brother is concerned about the examination. Besides, it seems like she doesn¡¯t truly want a divorce. It appears she is strategically retreating to advance!¡±
Unconcerned with their bewildered expressions, Qin Zhenzhen headed straight to the kitchen.
Chapter 14
Our Third Brother Works Too Hard
Food was of utmost importance to people, and as a self-proimed ¡°fat girl,¡± Qin Zhenzhen was particrly hungry.
It was dinner time now, and she pondered what to eat for the evening.
Usually, the Su siblings would prepare arge pot of in porridge in the morning. They would have two meals of porridge for lunch and dinner. The dishes they cooked were in and simple, without any oil or vor.
Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t fond of the meals prepared by Su Cheng and the others, and they didn¡¯t offer her the porridge they cooked either.
Fortunately, the original host had dowry money, which allowed her to buy various pastries and keep them hidden. She also had rice, noodles, oil, and eggs in the room, giving her the freedom to cook whatever she desired.
She was an omnivore in the truest sense.
Qin Zhenzhen lifted the lid of the pot and discovered that there was still half a pot of cold in porridge remaining.
Su Ning had made extra porridge today since they were eating at home, which was sufficient for three people. However, with Su Bin and Su Qing present, this pot of porridge wouldn¡¯t be enough.
Qin Zhenzhen stirred the thin in porridge with a spoon and frowned. It was too watery, almost transparent. It was no wonder Su Cheng and the others looked so skinny¡ªthey only had this type of food.
Oh well, starting from tonight, she would be more generous and ensure that they could eat their fill. This would be the first step in improving her rtionship with the Su family.
It would be easier to discuss their divorce in the future when there was a better rapport between them.
Qin Zhenzhen returned to her room and took stock of the ingredients the original host had hidden away.
There was a small bag of rice, a small bag of white flour, twelve eggs, a full jar ofrd, a jar of honey, and a packet of sesame candy. The supplies were quite abundant, but the original owner had been reluctant to share them with the family.
However, Qin Zhenzhen was different. She had a generous nature and enjoyed sharing delicacies with others. As a popr food and therapeutic blogger with millions of followers, she particrly loved to share recipes that not only tasted delicious but also had therapeutic effects.
Her culinary skills were top-notch, and she derived great joy from seeing others savoring her creations.
With her decision made, Qin Zhenzhen swiftly gathered eggs, flour, andrd, intending to make fried eggs and pancakes for everyone.
Egg and vegetable pancakes were easy to make, requiring a simple process and filling the stomach. The texture was also delightful.
Pairing them with the in porridge would surely make for a satisfying meal.
Qin Zhenzhen carried the ingredients out of the room.
In the courtyard, Su Ning frowned. ¡°Fifth Brother, we have so many people here. What if there¡¯s not enough porridge for all?¡±
¡°There¡¯s no more rice in the rice jar. I can¡¯t cook another pot.¡±
ording to the settings in the book, Su Ning¡¯s culinary skills were very good, but a clever housewife could not cook without ingredients at all.
Su Cheng also frowned. ¡°I wonder if Qian Duoduo has any rice at home. I¡¯ll go borrow some.¡±
Qian Duoduo was his good friend and neighbor.
It was rare for Fourth Brother and Third Brother toe home. He could not let them go hungry tonight.
Her brothers weren¡¯t at home often. In fact, Su Cheng was the young master in this family when that happened.
Su Qing stopped Su Cheng. ¡°Don¡¯t borrow it. You still have to cook it anyway. Why don¡¯t you cook more packets of vegetables and eat them instead?¡±
The big and round bags of vegetables were nted by Su Cheng and Su Ning in the backyard of the house. Each of them weighed two to three catties.
Su Qing continued, ¡°Try not to borrow if you can. Don¡¯t belittle the vigers. Third Brother should have some money with him. You can buy the rice tomorrow.¡±
Third Brother¡¯s money was earned from copying books for the bookstore and selling paintings. Other than his own living expenses, the rest was always given to Su Cheng.
Su Ning¡¯s heart ached. ¡°Our Third Brother is working too hard. He has to study in the day and copy books at night¡¡±
Su Qing thought for a moment and took out the money bag in and put it into his arms ¡°This is a small tip from Fourth Brother. Fifth Brother, take it and use it.¡±
Su Cheng pushed the money bag back. ¡°Fourth Brother, keep it for yourself! You¡¯re all working with theater so there are many outfits you would need to buy.¡±
Chapter 15
Eggs and Vegetable Pies
¡°I still have some money for the rice. I¡¯ll sell those packets of vegetables the day after tomorrow on the market day. Then I¡¯ll have money too.¡±
Su Cheng would not want to take Fourth Brother¡¯s money no matter what.
Third Elder Brother strongly objected to Fourth Elder Brother going to the acting ss to learn acting. He felt that the money that an actor earned was not very clean.
That was why he did not dare to take Fourth Brother¡¯s money rashly.
¡°Then I¡¯ll give the money to Third Brother. I¡¯ll give it to you too.¡±
Su Qing roughly understood her fifth brother¡¯s concerns and took the money bag to the study.
Second Brother and Third Brother were both in the study room. He could show them his determination to learn acting.
Qin Zhenzhen stood there and looked at them quietly for a while.
These little characters were initially not inherently bad. It was only when they faced misfortune that their mindset underwent a change.
Their present life was filled with struggles, and even providing meals for themselves became a challenge. Their circumstances were undeniably pitiable.
This situation was opportune for her backup n. She needed to put in her best efforts to take care of them and cultivate their gratitude towards her.
Upon witnessing Qin Zhenzhen carrying the ingredients into the kitchen, Su Cheng hurriedly followed her and spoke in an unfriendly manner.
¡°We¡¯re in the middle of cooking. We need to use this pot!¡±
¡°Wait until we finish cooking!¡±
While saying this, Su Cheng blocked ess to therge pot, clearly indicating that he didn¡¯t want her to use it first.
The kitchen was spacious enough, with two stoves inside¡ªonerge and one small.
The small stove had a small pot on it, where in porridge had just been cooked and only needed to be heated.
On the clean wooden countertop, therey a sizable bag of washed vegetables awaiting chopping.
The abundance of vegetables in the bag could easily form a small mountain. Stir-frying them would undoubtedly require the use of arge pot.
In the past, the plump girl always prepared dinner ahead of them, but today was an exception due to her fall.
Su Ning also rushed into the kitchen, clearly indicating her reluctance for Qin Zhenzhen to cook first.
Qin Zhenzhen understood their misunderstanding and decided to exin herself.
¡°This pot of in porridge won¡¯t be enough for everyone. I thought of frying egg and vegetable pancakes so that everyone can have a satisfying meal.¡±
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words, Su Cheng couldn¡¯t believe his ears. Did he mishear?
Su Ning was equally astonished. ¡°You¡¯re using these ingredients to fry eggs and pancakes for us¡ for the entire family?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°That¡¯s correct! That¡¯s why you don¡¯t have to cook anymore. Tonight, we¡¯ll have egg pancakes, along with in porridge.¡±
In that moment, realization dawned upon Su Cheng. That plump girl must be trying to win over their third brother, so she was willing to share these ingredients.
Su Ning also arrived at the same conclusion.
As they gazed at the mouthwatering ingredients, they weren¡¯t foolish enough to decline. Instead, Su Ning took the initiative and suggested:
¡°Alright, I¡¯ll help you with the frying. Consider me your assistant.¡±
She didn¡¯t dare to praise the plump girl¡¯s culinary skills.
Su Ning had witnessed the plump girl¡¯s failed attempts at frying an egg pancake before. They would either end up burnt or shapeless.
It was obvious at a nce that it tasted terrible.
Su Ning was determined not to let these delectable ingredients go to waste.
Qin Zhenzhen could sense the siblings¡¯ thoughts and secretly scoffed. Let them misunderstand all they want! Their third brother may be the Host¡¯s favorite, but not her favorite!
¡°I¡¯ll handle it myself. You can assist me,¡± Qin Zhenzhen stated firmly.
It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t trust Su Ning¡¯s cooking abilities, but she wanted to showcase her own skills.
Qin Zhenzhen then rudely instructed Su Ning, ¡°Go to the backyard and fetch some green onions or garlic sprouts. Adding them will enhance the aroma.¡±
In modern times, she would use eggs, onions, flour, and seasonings to fry these egg and vegetable pancakes.
Since there were no onions avable, she would substitute them with green onions or garlic sprouts.
Su Ning opened her mouth to speak but then decided against it.
It seemed like the plump girl wanted to impress their third brother with her cooking skills.
That was alright too. With Su Ning¡¯s guidance, hopefully, nothing would end up burnt.
Chapter 16
Third Brother Is Really Influential
With that thought in mind, Su Ning instructed Su Cheng, ¡°Fifth Brother, go and fetch some garlic sprouts. I¡¯ll start cutting the vegetables. It¡¯ll be quicker that way.¡±
¡°Sure.¡±
Su Cheng left the kitchen and headed to the backyard.
In that moment, he no longer felt conflicted. If the plump girl wanted to show off her skills in front of their third brother, he would let her.
It would be a shame to waste the food!
After all, they weren¡¯t receiving a free meal. She had used their firewood and water, and even upied Third Brother¡¯s room!
Qin Zhenzhen found arge bowl and deftly cracked six eggs into it. She added water, salt, and flour, mixing everything evenly with chopsticks.
Her movements were as fluid as flowing water and clouds, clearly indicating her vast experience.
Su Ning¡¯s eyes widened.
How generous she was!
With so many eggs and such arge quantity of flour, they would have an abundance of egg pancakes!
Their third brother must have yed a significant role in this.
But why did Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s movements appear more nimble than before?
The ratio of batter to water was just right. There was no need for Su Ning to guide her at all.
Something seemed off. The plump girl seemed different from before.
Qin Zhenzhen nced up at Su Ning, noticing her slightly uneasy expression. ¡°I¡ I¡¯ll start cutting the vegetables.¡±
¡°Chop them, preferably into thin strips.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t hesitate to make the request. She knew that Su Ning had exceptional knife skills since she was young. The only notable aspect of her growth was her culinary prowess.
¡°I know, I¡¯ll cut them into thin strips.¡±
Su Ning divided the bag of vegetables in half and swiftly cut a pile of shredded vegetables.
Qin Zhenzhen observed the shredded vegetables andplimented Su Ning, ¡°You¡¯re actually quite skilled!¡±
At only nine years old, in the modern world, she would still be relying on her mother¡¯s care at that age.
Su Ning stared at Qin Zhenzhen in astonishment. Didn¡¯t she always call her an idiot?
Why was she praising her now?
Qin Zhenzhen then assigned a task to Su Ning.
¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough shredded vegetables. Help me light the stove and control the heat. I¡¯ll be done cooking soon.¡±
Ancient times were different from the present. In ancient times, controlling the fire was a skill in itself.
Having just arrived, she definitely wouldn¡¯t be proficient at it. It would be better to entrust the fire control to Su Ning.
In the meantime, Su Cheng washed the garlic sprouts and brought them into the kitchen.
Observing therge amount of batter, he couldn¡¯t help but mutter inwardly, ¡°What a wasteful act!¡±
Couldn¡¯t they just split the meals and cook them separately?
Why did she have to prepare such arge quantity in one go?
As Su Ning lit the fire and heated the pot, Qin Zhenzhen had already cut the garlic sprouts and mixed them with the shredded vegetables.
She even added a few drops of spirit water into the mixture as a special touch.
The aroma of the dish was enticing, and it seemed to have a delightful taste. Qin Zhenzhen believed it could serve as both a nutritious solution and a seasoning, enhancing the umami vor of the food.
She was still experimenting with the use of spirit water.
Qin Zhenzhen addedrd to the pot and spread it evenly, coating the pork throughout. Then, using a spoonful of paste, she spread it onto a small piece of tbread.
Su Ning skillfully controlled the fire, and Qin Zhenzhen worked swiftly. She flipped one piece of tbread and ced it in the pot, immediately adding another piece to the bottom.
Soon, therge pot was filled with tbread, filling the entire kitchen with its distinct aroma.
The enticing fragrance tempted Su Cheng, causing him to enter the kitchen multiple times to take a peek.
He didn¡¯t mind Qin Zhenzhen¡¯svishness now. After all, it was her own choice, so he didn¡¯t feel any heartache.
He just wanted to savor the pancakes as soon as possible.
Observing that the batter in the bowl was nearly used up, Su Cheng swiftly carried the heated porridge to the dining table, washed the bowls and chopsticks, and prepared for the meal.
Tonight marked the first time he had set up Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s bowl and chopsticks.
Witnessing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s skilled and rapid movements, Su Ning couldn¡¯t believe her eyes.
Not a single tbread was burnt, and each one was perfectly fried. Furthermore, they looked and smelled absolutely delicious.
Chapter 17
Don¡¯t Think If You Don¡¯t Want To
Su Ning had witnessed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cooking before, and it was nothing like what she was seeing now.
If it weren¡¯t for the fact that her appearance and figure hadn¡¯t changed, she would have suspected that the plump girl in front of her was a different person.
In the study, Su Bin was asked by his unreliable second brother, ¡°Do you want to divorce the plump girl?¡±
Su Bin calmly looked at him and replied, ¡°No.¡±
¡°Why?¡±
¡°If I don¡¯t want to, then I won¡¯t.¡± Su Bin didn¡¯t feel the need to provide further exnation.
¡°Are you afraid of offending her four brothers and it affecting your exams?¡±
Su Bin remained silent.
He didn¡¯t want to reveal that this was only one of the reasons.
Another reason was that he didn¡¯t want to let the plump girl off so easily!
If she provoked or bullied him, she would have to face his retaliation.
Taking Su Bin¡¯s silence as confirmation, his second brother patted his chest confidently.
¡°Two months ago, you were bullied by them because I wasn¡¯t home! Now that I¡¯m back, you don¡¯t have to fear them anymore. If you want a divorce, leave this matter to me!¡±
¡°My brothers are all skilled in martial arts. I can invite them over¡¡±
Su Bin interrupted him. ¡°I already said I¡¯m not getting a divorce!¡±
Then, he sternly warned him, ¡°Don¡¯t involve yourself in this matter!¡±
Su Bin understood what his second brother was implying. He wanted to invite his rowdy friends to the Qin family for a fight.
However, this matter couldn¡¯t be resolved with just a brawl.
Regardless of who emerged victorious or suffered defeat, who died or got injured, the consequences would escte and directly impact his exams.
Furthermore, Su Bin had clearly underestimated thebat prowess of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s four brothers. It remained uncertain who would end up dead or injured in a confrontation.
Even that infuriating plump girl possessed immense strength. When she knocked him down, he was utterly defenseless, resulting in his lips getting injured by her teeth!
His third brother had refused to help him. It was evident that he was hurt.
¡°If they don¡¯t cause any further trouble, let¡¯s leave it at that,¡± Su Bin¡¯s tone softened slightly.
¡°We can¡¯t solely focus on ourselves. We have to take care of our younger siblings. We must endure some anger for now and shoulder our responsibilities.¡±
He had already allowed the plump girl into their home. He had already been bullied. Getting a divorce at this point served no purpose.
Besides, he had kept Qin Zhenzhen alive to torment her in the future!
Of course, he understood what his brother was trying to convey.
Su Bin lowered his head slightly. ¡°Second Brother, I understand. I won¡¯t deliberately go to the Qin family to cause trouble.¡±
¡°Tomorrow, you should return to the academy and concentrate on your studies. For the next two weeks, I won¡¯t go out either. I¡¯ll protect our younger siblings at home and ensure the Qin family doesn¡¯t harass you anymore.¡±
As the second brother, he was supposed to be the pir of the family. He couldn¡¯t allow his siblings to go hungry any longer.
He couldn¡¯t risk engaging in a physical altercation. Third Brother was their family¡¯s sole hope, and he shouldn¡¯t do anything that might jeopardize his exams.
He would settle the score with the Qin family after his third brother achieved sess!
At that moment, Su Qing entered the study.
¡°Second Brother, Third Brother,¡± Su Qing called out.
He emptied the contents of a money bag onto the table. ¡°This is the tip I received from the troupe. I tried to give it to Fifth Brother earlier, but he refused to ept it. Third Brother, I know you brought back some money as well. Please give it to Fifth Brotherter.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s brows furrowed slightly. He had initially objected to Ling¡¯s decision to join an acting ss and pursue a career in acting. He viewed actors as belonging to a lowly profession.
However, it was the first time his fourth brother had defied his orders and secretly entered an opera troupe to study under a master.
Fourth Brother possessed a handsome appearance, and his gender was often indistinguishable. Moreover, he had a unique voice that could convincingly portray female characters.
Chapter 18
The Old Saying
When Su Qing was an apprentice, he often had the opportunity to perform on stage, but most of the time, he served as a tea-serving waiter in the theater.
Although there were no official rewards during the apprenticeship period, some generous or interested actors would asionally give him tips when he served them tea and water.
However, Su Bin didn¡¯t think much of Su Qing¡¯s tips. He held a disdainful view of actors in general.
¡°Fourth Brother, you should think carefully before entering the acting ss and pursuing a career as an actor.¡±
¡°A woman fears marrying the wrong man, and a man fears choosing the wrong profession.¡±
Su Qing tried to exin, ¡°Third Brother, I understand your perspective, but not everyone has the talent or means to pursue higher education. Besides, studying requires a significant amount of money.¡±
Su Bin coldly reminded him, his expression hardened, ¡°Actors are considered lower in statuspared to other professions!¡±
In his eyes, actresses were on par with the courtesans of the Yihong Brothel.
He didn¡¯t want to witness his fourth brother¡¯s future being ruined.
Su Qing immediately retorted, ¡°But I disagree! Moreover, I love singing opera! Father used to say that excellence can be achieved in any field. Why can¡¯t I pursue what I love in the theater?!¡±
Su Bin¡¯s anger red. ¡°You¡¯ll regret it!¡±
Su Qing firmly replied, ¡°I will never regret it!¡±
Su Bin sneered, ¡°It¡¯s your choice then!¡±
His expression seemed to convey to Su Qing that if he became an actor, he shouldn¡¯t address him as Third Brother anymore.
As tears welled up in Su Qing¡¯s eyes, he fought hard to hold them back, refusing to let them fall. Instead, he turned away from the study and made his way back to his room.
Su Ping followed him, attempting to offerfort. Although he also had reservations about Ling pursuing opera, hecked the means to provide a better alternative for him.
Meanwhile, Su Bin tightly clenched his fists, resisting the urge to strike the desk. He was enduring it all.
He had to secure a schrship. He had to change the current circumstances at home.
Once he attained a high-ranking position and wielded power, his siblings would unquestioningly follow his lead. Only then could they live with dignity, free from scorn.
Su Bin opened a book and swiftly immersed himself in its contents, channeling his frustration into his studies.
It wasn¡¯t until Su Cheng arrived to call him for dinner that he emerged from the study. The enticing aroma of egg, vegetable, and pancakes greeted him.
Seeing arge tter of golden pancakes on the dining table, a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. Ning¡¯er¡¯s culinary skills had once again improved.
Of all his siblings, it was his little sister who provided him with the greatest sce andfort.
He gazed at the egg pancakes, finding them particrly appetizing. His good mood, however, was dampened when he noticed that Qin Zhenzhen was seated at the same table as them. Hadn¡¯t they agreed that she would eat alone and not join them?
Although Su Bin didn¡¯t voice his displeasure, his previously uplifted spirits took a noticeable dip.
As everyone settled into their seats, Su Ning eagerly reached for a piece of the egg pancake and took a bite, her expression quickly transforming into one of disbelief.
How could these egg pancakes be so incredibly delicious?
It was a culinary delight she had never experienced before.
Despitecking a meat filling, they surpassed any pancake she had ever tasted in terms of vor.
If she hadn¡¯t witnessed it herself, she might have believed they were crafted by a master chef in the imperial pce.
Qin Zhenzhen remained silent, her understanding of the pancakes deepening after tasting them. The impact of the spirit water was undeniable.
Haha, her special ability truly worked wonders.
Even someone like her, who had savored countless delicacies, couldn¡¯t help but sigh in awe. These egg pancakes were truly extraordinary.
The expressions on the faces of the others mirrored Su Ning¡¯s astonishment.
They assumed Su Ning was the mastermind behind these delectable pancakes. Only Su Ning and Su Cheng were privy to the truth.
Chapter 19
Water
Su Ping couldn¡¯t help but inquire from Su Ning, ¡°Ning, what¡¯s in the tbread? How does it taste so amazing?¡±
Su Ning replied, ¡°It¡¯s made with eggs, flour, wrapped vegetables, shredded garlic sprouts, mixed with salt, and fried withrd. That¡¯s all.¡±
Su Bin nced at his energetic sister and remarked, ¡°Ning is bing more and more skilled. This is the best pancake Third Brother has ever had.¡±
Feeling a bit embarrassed, Su Ning rified, ¡°I didn¡¯t make the pancakes. Third Sister-inw made them herself. She also bought the flour and eggs. I only handled the cooking.¡±
It was the first time Su Ning referred to her as Third Sister-inw, all thanks to the delicious pancakes.
Upon hearing this, Su Bin was already devouring the second piece of pancake. Suddenly, he realized that the pancake in his mouth didn¡¯t taste as good as before, and his good mood was diminished.
Had he known that Qin Zhenzhen was the one who made it, he wouldn¡¯t have eaten it.
But not only did he eat it, he even imed it was the best thing he had ever tasted.
He struggled to control his emotions, determined not to spit out the pancakes in his mouth.
He didn¡¯t want to spit it out because he respected Qin Zhenzhen.
Initially, he had felt nauseated, but he suddenly realized that if he did vomit, it would dampen the mood of his siblings.
If he refused to eat it, they might refuse as well.
Besides, he had already praised the pancakes and acknowledged her cooking skills, so it wouldn¡¯t be the end of the world.
Su Ning appeared remorseful. ¡°Third Brother, I didn¡¯t mean to keep this from you. I just didn¡¯t have time to tell you¡¡±
Swallowing the pancake in his mouth, Su Bin reassured Su Ning. ¡°I am not upset with you. If you like it, you can have more.¡±
He nced at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s chubby face and couldn¡¯t help but make a judgment. No wonder she was overweight. Her cooking skills were undoubtedly excellent!
Qin Zhenzhen yfully met his gaze, noticing the shift in his expression.
She could sense the deep-seated animosity he harbored towards her. He despised her so much that he wanted to spit out the pancake in his mouth, but he forced himself to swallow it instead.
It was clear to her that he would be a cunning and sinister antagonist in the future. Even at a young age, he had already learned to be adaptable and restrained.
Aware that Qin Zhenzhen was the one who made the pancakes, Su Qing and Su Cheng dared not show their true feelings. However, like Su Cheng and Su Ning, they would never turn down a delicious meal.
Therge te of eggs and pancakes disappeared quickly as everyone devoured them.
Qin Zhenzhen noticed that Su Bin no longer reached for the pancakes upon discovering her involvement. Instead, he silently ate his porridge with his head lowered.
He was the first one to finish.
Deciding to retreat to the study and appear engrossed in a book, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t underestimate him. She knew that dealing with this boy would be challenging.
How could she dissolve his animosity towards her and convince him to agree to a divorce?
After everyone finished eating, it was Su Ning¡¯s turn to wash the dishes.
Qin Zhenzhen followed her into the kitchen, noticing the unwashed omelet pan. She believed in finishing what she started and felt that as an adult, she should contribute to the household chores.
However, Su Ning stopped her. ¡°Let me take care of it.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen assumed that Su Ning was expressing gratitude for the egg pancakes, prompting her to eagerly offer her assistance with the household chores. She spoke calmly, saying, ¡°Let me do it. I¡¯ll help with the housework from now on.¡±
However, Su Ning was anxious and quickly interjected, ¡°No, don¡¯t pour out the water from the pot. Put it in the bucket instead. We can use it to cook pig food tomorrow.¡±
They had a skinny pig at home, a frugal purchase made by Fifth Brother. He had mentioned that after the New Year, they would ughter it and have a sumptuous feast.
Chapter 20
Save My Fifth Brother
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but stifle augh.
She understood Su Ning¡¯s intention. There was still some oil left in the pot, and it shouldn¡¯t be wasted. It would be used for the pig¡¯s food.
She recalled reading about this concept of making use of every resource in a book, which taught her about life¡¯s ups and downs. At that time, she had found it amusing, but she never expected to face it firsthand.
Silently, Qin Zhenzhen washed the pot three times, ensuring that not a drop of water went to waste. Only then did Su Ning feel satisfied.
As Qin Zhenzhen was about to leave, Su Ning couldn¡¯t help but remind her, ¡°Aren¡¯t you taking the eggs and flour back to your room?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°No, let¡¯s use them to make breakfast tomorrow.¡±
With the rice tank empty, if she stored the ingredients, what would they eat for breakfast the next morning?
Su Ning was surprised. ¡°Really?¡±
But it quickly dawned on her that Qin Zhenzhen was trying to impress her Third Brother by making breakfast. She hadn¡¯t woken up early to prepare breakfast solely for Third Brother. She wanted to taste the eggs and pancakes to see if the ingredients she bought were exceptionally delicious.
¡°Is it true? Why would I lie to you?¡±
That night, as Qin Zhenzheny in bed, she pondered over the events in the book.
After the original host¡¯s demise, a violent conflict erupted between the Su and Qin families, resulting in the disability of the Qin Family¡¯s second son. Eventually, the Qin Family acquired the Su Bin family¡¯s house and fields, selling them for a substantial sum of money.
However, the Qin Family didn¡¯t meet a favorable oue.
The Qin Family¡¯s fourth son joined the military camp and swiftly climbed the ranks from a decurion to a centurion.
There was a particr incident when they ventured into the mountains alongside the deputy general to eliminate a group of bandits.
During that mission, all of theirrades were killed, except for one sworn brother.
Qin Silong disyed immense valor and was rewarded with a promotion to chiliarch. He requested leave and returned home to bring glory to his ancestors.
Unexpectedly, both Qin Silong and his sworn brother, who harbored deep resentment towards the Qin Family, incapacitated everyone in the Qin Family using perfume and executed them.
Three or four yearster, Qin Zhenzhen firmly believed that the most effective way to alter the fate of the Qin Family¡¯s extermination was to divorce Su Bin as soon as possible.
However, the prerequisite was that they couldn¡¯t offend anyone from the Su Family, particrly Su Bin.
She had a gut feeling that Su Bin¡¯s retaliation would be even more severe than that of his brothers.
*
The next day, Qin Zhenzhen overslept.
It wasn¡¯t her fault; it was simply a natural habit of her body. Once she fell asleep, she could sleep well into thete morning when the sun was high in the sky.
When Qin Zhenzhen finally woke up naturally, it was alreadyte morning.
Su Bin returned to West Mountain College, while Su Qing went back to the theater. Su Qing resumed his hunting activities in the mountains, while Su Ning and Su Cheng ventured out to gather pig feed.
Qin Zhenzhen woke up and freshened up.
Upon noticing the egg and pancakes in the pot, she couldn¡¯t help but smile.
People¡¯s opinions could change. If she treated them well, they would reciprocate.
Although the eggs and pancakes made by Su Ning didn¡¯t taste as good as hers, they were still satisfactory.
After breakfast, Qin Zhenzhen made up her mind to visit her mother¡¯s home.
She needed to persuade her four brothers to grant her a divorce.
To prevent the tragic events from unfolding, she had to change the ways of her four rowdy brothers.
As Qin Zhenzhen prepared to leave, she spotted Su Ning hurrying back home.
¡°Third¡ Third Sister-inw, can you save my Fifth Brother?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°What happened to your Fifth Brother?¡±
¡°My aunt undressed him and tied him to a tree!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt bewildered. ¡°Why did your aunt undress him and tie him to a tree?¡±
Su Ning proceeded to recount the events.
That morning, she and Fifth Brother went to the sweet potato field at the foot of the mountain to gather some pig feed.
They went early to cut the grass before other children could im it for themselves.
Chapter 21
Bad Aunt
But as they were cutting the weeds, they suddenly heard their aunt-inw, Ms. Lin, shouting from halfway up the mountain, ¡°It¡¯s that damned brat who stole my grains!¡±
¡°Stop! Don¡¯t you dare run away!¡±
¡°You can¡¯t escape! My Erhu is at the foot of the mountain!¡±
Ms. Lin yelled as she hurried down from the mountainside.
While she had been busy tending to the crops in the field, she discovered that someone had tampered with the grains at her house.
Her anger surged within her¡ªit must have been another family who had stolen her grains!
They had nearly emptied her home of all the grains!
How dare someone steal from her while she was working here! She was ready to teach the thief a lesson they wouldn¡¯t forget!
Upon hearing his mother¡¯s scream, Qian Erhu swiftly moved forward.
Ms. Lin and Qian Erhu confronted five or six children who were cutting pig grass, including Su Cheng and his sister.
¡°Tell me, who stole our grains?¡± Ms. Lin demanded.
All the children vigorously shook their heads. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t take anything!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s fierceness did not faze Su Ning or Su Cheng, as they knew they were not responsible for the theft in the valley.
However, they hadn¡¯t anticipated that it was Su Cheng¡¯s fault after all.
Ms. Lin and Qian Erhu proceeded to inspect each child¡¯s basket, meticulously searching for any trace of the stolen grains.
¡°Erhu, keep an eye on them. No one is allowed to leave. The thieves are among them! We must find them and punish them for their theft! Mom, go and assess how much has been stolen!¡±
Ms. Lin headed towards the farm to conduct her examination and discovered that five portions of grains were missing.
As she walked out, she cursed under her breath while scanning her surroundings.
The grains were not in their baskets, nor were they on the ground. They must have been hidden nearby, with the intention of taking them home when no one was around.
Before long, Ms. Lin discovered five grains concealed in the sweet potato field.
Coincidentally, the sweet potato field belonged to Su Ning¡¯s family, leading their aunt to firmly believe that it was Su Cheng who had stolen the grains.
Despite Su Cheng and his sister¡¯s attempts to deny the usation, they couldn¡¯t find any witnesses to vouch for their innocence. Moreover, they were no match for Ms. Lin and Qian Erhu¡¯s authority.
In the end, they forced Su Cheng to remove his clothes, leaving him tied to a tree wearing only his underwear.
Disregarding Su Cheng¡¯s protests, Ms. Lin instructed Su Ning, ¡°If you want to rescue your younger brother, go home and fetch one liang to secure his release!¡±
¡°If we don¡¯t receive payment, we¡¯ll strip him of his underpants and see how shameless he¡¯ll be in the future!¡±
Su Ning pleaded with tears streaming down her face. ¡°Aunt, please believe us! We did not steal your grains!¡±
Ms. Lin sneered. ¡°If you didn¡¯t steal them, why were they hidden in your sweet potato field?¡±
¡°There¡¯s no use defending yourselves. In fact, when I was in the mountains, I already knew that Su Cheng was the one who stole the grains. That¡¯s why I went straight to your sweet potato field to search for them!¡±
¡°I understand that your family is going through tough times, and you don¡¯t even have enough to eat. But everyone is facing hardships, and your uncle¡¯s family is also struggling!¡±
¡°Learning how to steal at such a young age is uneptable. This time, you must face the consequences for your actions and learn from it!¡±
¡°Consider it a lesson in honor of your deceased parents!¡±
Su Ning couldn¡¯t hold back her tears. ¡°We don¡¯t have one liang!¡±
Ms. Lin added, ¡°Your Third Sister-inw has it! She informed me that she possesses more than 10 liang in her dowries!¡±
¡°She is your guardian and responsible for your misconduct. She should pay the penalty!¡±
¡°If she refuses to pay on your behalf, then remove your underwear and bring the vige chief here to administer the punishment ording to the vige rules!¡±
Chapter 22
Pitiful
With no other options, Su Ning had to return and plead for help.
Her brothers were not at home, and Qin Zhenzhen was the only person she could turn to.
¡°Third Sister-inw, will you help save my Fifth Brother?¡±
¡°I promise to treat you well in the future!¡±
Fifth Brother was already 12 years old, a grown boy. Having his pants taken off would bring longsting humiliation.
Qin Zhenzhen locked eyes with Su Ning. ¡°How do you propose I save him?¡±
Su Ning couldn¡¯t hold back her tears.
¡°The best oue would be if you can prove my Fifth Brother¡¯s innocence. If that¡¯s not possible, could you please lend me one liang to secure his release? We will definitely repay you!¡±
Their immediate goal was to ensure Fifth Brother wasn¡¯t humiliated. They would figure out the rest once Second Brother and the others returned.
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯tpletely trust Su Ning¡¯s words.
ording to the records, Su Cheng was portrayed as a thief.
Although the book mentioned that he fell into thieving due to bad influence, the possibility of having the ¡°thief genes¡± lingered.
That¡¯s what the book imed.
However, after carefully observing Su Ning, Qin Zhenzhen noticed no signs of deception.
¡°You truly didn¡¯t steal the corns?¡±
¡°No, I swear!¡±
Witnessing Su Ning¡¯s desperation and realizing she wasn¡¯t lying, Su Ning raised her hands in distress.
¡°If I¡¯m lying, I¡¯ll marry the ugliest man alive!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. She hadn¡¯t expected Su Ning to make such a drastic oath.
In the book, Su Ning¡¯s fixation on appearances made it the most severe vow imaginable for her.
Qin Zhenzhen believed her about 60%.
Regardless of whether Su Cheng had stolen the corns from their aunt¡¯s home or not, she nned to visit him anyway.
After all, she was their Third Sister-inw!
Her goal was to mend their rtionship.
Qin Zhenzhen was determined to meet Su Cheng¡¯s troublesome aunt.
If Su Cheng hadn¡¯t stolen the corns, she would find a way to prove his innocence. If he had, she would prevent him from being stripped naked.
On the way, Qin Zhenzhen asked Su Ning for more details.
There were other children present who were also cutting the grass, and some of them resembled Su Cheng.
Su Ning recounted the whole story to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Qian Duoduo is the only one who looks like my Fifth Brother.¡±
¡°When we were cutting the grass, we were all scattered. I can¡¯t think of anyone suspicious.¡±
¡°Qian Duoduo and my Fifth Brother have a close rtionship. He¡¯s the only one who stood up for my Fifth Brother.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Was Qian Duoduo with you at that time?¡±
Su Ning shook her head. ¡°Not together, but he was nearby.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen took note of that information.
However, since the story wasn¡¯t written in the book, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t determine who the true thief was.
They remained uncertain whether Su Cheng had actually stolen the corns.
They soon arrived at the scene of the incident.
By this time, there were already seven or eight children gathered, observing the spectacle, while a few adults were pointing fingers.
Ms. Lin¡¯s narrative had changed as well. She imed to have witnessed Su Cheng stealing the corns in the mountains andter discovered five stolen corns in Su Cheng¡¯s sweet potato field.
He was caught red-handed, and he had no choice but to confess.
Su Cheng kept swearing and crying.
¡°I didn¡¯t steal the corns! I didn¡¯t steal yours!¡±
¡°I swear, if I were the thief, may I suffer a dreadful death!¡±
¡°That scoundrel must have hidden the corns in my field! Come out and confess!¡±
¡°May you meet a terrible demise and have no descendants!¡±
His voice was hoarse, and his eyes were bloodshot. He appeared truly pitiful.
Chapter 23
Money
Fearing the humiliation of having his pants taken off, Su Cheng fought desperately to clear his name.
He resented his unreasonable aunt and cousin, as well as the person who had nted the corns in his home.
Yet, Ms. Lin and her son remained distrustful of Su Cheng.
None of the other children stood up for him either.
He felt a deep sense of despair.
The thought of being exposed to the public was so unbearable that he wished he could disappear.
Seeing his sister and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s arrival gave him a glimmer of hope.
He hoped that their Third Sister-inw could prevent the removal of his pants.
He vowed that once he was safe, he would find the person who had nted the bag in his field and give them a thorough beating!
From that moment on, he no longer considered his uncle¡¯s family as his own.
Observing Su Ning¡¯s arrival with Qin Zhenzhen, Ms. Lin smirked.
She believed that the plump girl would easily fall into the trap in order to ingratiate herself with the Su family.
Ms. Lin made an outrageous demand, requesting 100 penalties, knowing well that the chubby girl had money and would surelye to redeem Su Cheng.
Ha, getting one liang would be a piece of cake!
However, what Ms. Lin hadn¡¯t anticipated was that Qin Zhenzhen had visited them beforehand.
And now, she returned calmly, reaching out to untie Su Cheng.
Ms. Yuezheng interjected, ¡°Give the money first, then you can untie him!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen gazed at Ms. Lin, amusement evident in her eyes. ¡°Why should I give you any money?¡±
Angrily, Ms. Lin red at Su Ning. ¡°How did you manage to inform your Third Sister-inw?¡±
Su Ning confidently replied, ¡°I am speaking the truth! I told Third Sister-inw that my Fifth Brother didn¡¯t steal any corns. He was framed by you!¡±
Su Ning¡¯s eyes gleamed with anticipation for what Qin Zhenzhen would do next. She hoped that Qin Zhenzhen would help prove Fifth Brother¡¯s innocence.
¡°You wretched child, how dare you deny your actions!¡± Ms. Lin seethed with anger and was tempted to strike Su Ning.
Qin Zhenzhen intervened, pushing Ms. Lin away and issuing a warning. ¡°Keep your mouth shut. They may have lost their parents, but you have no right to speak like that!¡±
Her words served as both a caution to Ms. Lin and an attempt to make her reconsider her actions.
ording to the book, once Su Bin gained power, he retaliated against his uncle¡¯s family, who had schemed against him. He not only refused to provide them with any assistance but also exposed their wrongdoings, leading to his uncle and two cousins being imprisoned.
Observing how Ms. Lin and her son handled the situation, Qin Zhenzhen believed that they deserved their fate.
Su Cheng and his family were already burdened with the sorrow of losing their parents. Yet, his uncle and aunt failed to care for them and even attempted to sabotage their livelihood, trampling upon their dignity.
As Qin Zhenzhen pushed Ms. Lin, thetter staggered back, nearly losing her bnce. She was filled with anger and anxiety, feeling deeply humiliated.
Ms. Lin, aware that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s four brothers were known for their bullying behavior, didn¡¯t dare to antagonize her.
Raising her voice, Ms. Lin asserted, ¡°I am their aunt-inw and a senior member of the family. I have the right to offer guidance!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen sneered in response, ¡°Guidance? What you¡¯re doing is humiliation, not guidance! You, as a senior, are trampling on the dignity of your juniors!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words carried an air of dominance.
Su Ning¡¯s eyes gleamed with admiration. Even her Second Brother didn¡¯t dare to speak to their uncle like this, yet Qin Zhenzhen did. She had developed a fondness for her strong-willed Third Sister-inw.
Chapter 24
Crazy About Money
Under the scrutiny of the crowd, Ms. Lin became flustered and shouted, ¡°Fine! I am an outsider, and you are his senior. He stole my cornss, and you shouldpensate me!¡±
¡°You will be fined one liang for the theft!¡±
A passerby couldn¡¯t remain silent, feeling the need to interject some fairness into the situation.
¡°Ms. Lin, how can you say that? I¡¯ve heard that the punishment for theft is ten times the value. Besides, he is your own nephew!¡±
Another woman chimed in, ¡°Yes, one liang is excessive. We can offer a maximum of 100 wen aspensation.¡±
The surrounding children also joined the chorus, criticizing Ms. Lin.
¡°You are too fixated on money!¡±
¡°Five cornss wouldn¡¯t fetch 10 wen, let alone one liang!¡±
¡°You are worse than an outsider!¡±
Among them, a boy shouted the loudest, ¡°Let¡¯s call the vige chief to be the judge. There¡¯s no such thing as 100 penalties for stealing!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen turned her attention to the boy. It was Qian Duoduo, Su Cheng¡¯s close friend, who appeared to be of simr age and appearance.
Qian Duoduo took the lead in defending Su Cheng, earning a grateful look from him.
Su Cheng had a simple n. He intended to ask the vige chief to intervene and pass judgment. He would swear before the vige chief that he hadn¡¯t stolen anything, hoping to clear his name.
However, Qin Zhenzhen found Qian Duoduo¡¯s behavior strange. When their eyes met, he seemed panicked.
Recalling Su Ning¡¯s previous statement, Qin Zhenzhen suspected that there was something amiss with this boy.
She decided to remain vignt and keep a close eye on him.
Overwhelmed by the voices of the people using her of greed, Ms. Lin let out a sigh of relief and said, ¡°Fine then, we will pay half a liang, or we will take off the pants and expose you to the public!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen asserted with authority, ¡°I won¡¯t give you a single coin!¡±
She proceeded to untie Su Cheng, ignoring Ms. Lin¡¯s attempts to intervene. This time, Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t as gentle as before and pushed her to the ground.
Ms. Lin threw a fit,ining, ¡°Ouch! How dare you assault senior family members!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen remained undeterred, showing no fear.
As Qian Erhu helped his mother up and attempted to intervene, Qin Zhenzhen had already freed Su Cheng from his restraints.
Su Ning assisted her Fifth Brother in putting on his clothes.
Su Cheng¡¯s eyes were still teary, but like his sister, he held hope in his heart for Qin Zhenzhen.
Qian Erhu¡¯s voice turned fierce. ¡°You stole our cornss, and you think you can just walk away? Not so fast!¡±
¡°If you don¡¯t pay us, we will report him to the authorities! He¡¯s a corns thief, a repeat offender!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen remained unperturbed. ¡°That may be true, but before someone can be deemed a thief or a repeat offender, there must be evidence.¡±
Realizing that more and more people were watching the scene unfold, Ms. Lin raised her voice even louder.
¡°I personally witnessed Su Cheng turning over the cornss and running away. I even discovered the corns in your sweet potato field. We have all the evidence and witnesses. You must admit it!¡± Ms. Lin eximed, trying to bolster her im.
Qin Zhenzhen responded with an amused expression, ¡°If you truly saw Su Cheng on the mountain, why didn¡¯t you call out his name? Instead, you hurled insults at him!¡±
¡°That suggests you¡¯re lying! You never actually saw who it was!¡±
Ms. Yuezheng struggled to find an answer. However, she argued, ¡°I wanted to save face for him, so I refrained from calling out his name!¡±
¡°But he not only refused to admit his guilt, he even hid the cornss in the sweet potato field, intending to take them home once we left. He shows no remorse, so I decided to punish him!¡± Ms. Lin exined her reasoning.
Qin Zhenzhen maintained herposure. ¡°Very well, you have your reasons, and I have mine!¡±
¡°You im to have witnessed Su Cheng stealing the cornss, but I possess evidence proving that Su Cheng did notmit the theft!¡±
Chapter 25
ck-jack Grass
Ms. Lin¡¯s voice grew louder. ¡°What evidence do you have?¡±
Five or six vigers watched with keen interest, eager to see how the confident girl could prove Su Cheng¡¯s innocence.
The news of Su Bin¡¯s disdain for Qin Zhenzhen and the animosity between her and her siblings had already spread throughout the vige.
Curiosity piqued as they witnessed Qin Zhenzhen stepping up to defend Su Cheng.
Qin Zhenzhen calmly responded, ¡°Firstly, you are not a credible witness.¡±
¡°Secondly, our sweet potato field is the only route for corn thieves to escape. Anyone could have hidden in the field in the sweet potato field.¡±
¡°In other words, if this matter were to be taken to the governmental office, Su Cheng would not be convicted!¡±
¡°If you resort to force, we are not ones to be easily bullied.¡±
¡°Qian Erhu, you should consider whether you can defeat me or not!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen believed that evil should be met with equal force.
Threatened by a woman, Qian Erhu seethed with anger. However, he also recognized that he stood no chance against Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s four brothers, let alone Qin Zhenzhen herself.
Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°I am not unreasonable. I possess a few pieces of evidence that prove Su Cheng¡¯s innocence.¡±
¡°Firstly, I just examined the surroundings. Your field is damp, and the soles of your shoes and your mother¡¯s shoes are wet, as are mine. However, the soles of Su Cheng¡¯s shoes remain dry.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded and gestured for Su Cheng to show the soles of his shoes.
Qian Erhu was taken aback, realizing he had overlooked this crucial detail. His family had recently irrigated their corn fields, resulting in damp soil.
Had they wrongly used Su Cheng?
Driven by doubt, Qian Erhu couldn¡¯t help but examine the shoes of the group of boys. To his surprise, he discovered that three of them had wet soles.
Qian Duoduo¡¯s shoes were also wet, but he vehemently protested.
¡°Are you singling us out just because our shoes are wet? Are you that clueless? You¡¯re being easily led!¡±
The other two boys expressed their anger as well.
¡°I just came from the stream, so my shoes are wet.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t know why the soles of my shoes are wet, but I came straight from home, and my basket is still empty. How could I have hidden anything?¡±
Most of thend at the foot of the mountain was dry, so the majority of children¡¯s shoes remained dry.
Qian Duoduo shot a nce at Su Cheng before turning to Qin Zhenzhen, using her.
¡°Third Sister-inw of the Su Family, it¡¯s understandable that you want to clear Su Cheng¡¯s name and make him like you. But you shouldn¡¯t go against your conscience and consider wet shoes as suspicious!¡±
The other two boys red at Qin Zhenzhen, while the onlookers expressed their support for evidence-based judgment.
¡°Please, Vige Chief,e and handle this!¡±
¡°Evidence is crucial; let¡¯s not make false usations.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen closely observed the reactions of the three boys.
While the other two boys seemed to respond normally, Qian Duoduo¡¯s words made her feel as if he had been caught off guard.
Her suspicions about Qian Duoduo grew stronger.
Qin Zhenzhen locked eyes with him. ¡°I merely stated that the shoes were not suspicious, not that they were wet. Why are you so nervous?¡±
Then she turned to Qian Erhu and continued, ¡°You have ck-jack grass growing in the field, and both you and your mother have ck-jacks on your pants. As for me, I have them too, but Su Cheng¡¯s pants are free of them.¡±
Qian Erhu suddenly grasped the meaning behind Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words.
¡°There really is ck-jack grass in our field!¡±
Chapter 26
Not That Easy
¡°Mom,e and check who has ck-jack grass on their pants!¡± Qian Erhu eximed, his memory clear that only his family had ck-jack grass in their field.
Ms. Lin realized the implications and hurriedly went to inspect their pants.
The children, not wanting to be suspected, couldn¡¯t help but check themselves as well, relieved to find no traces of the grass on their trousers.
The two boys let out sighs of relief. ¡°My shoes might be wet, but there are no ck-jacks on my pants!¡±
¡°Same here. No ck-jacks on my pants, which proves we haven¡¯t been in the farnd.¡±
Qian Duoduo turned to examine his pants, and his face changed dramatically upon discovering the ck-jacks stuck to his trousers.
The others immediately crowded around him, and Qin Zhenzhen watched the scene unfold with amusement.
Su Cheng regarded Qian Duoduo with a mix ofplex emotions.
He had never expected that Qian Duoduo would turn out to be the primary suspect. If Qian Duoduo had indeed stolen the cornss and hidden them in the sweet potato field, and if it was Qian Duoduo who had nearly exposed his pants, then he must have been blind to befriend him.
Qian Duoduo began to panic. Many people had already guessed that he was the culprit who stole the cornss.
Qian Erhu red at him. ¡°So, you¡¯ve been to my corns field?¡±
Qian Duoduo tried topose himself. ¡°I¡¯ve never been there! Don¡¯t use me! There is ck-jack grass behind my house, and the ck-jacks on my pants must have stuck to the back of the house!¡±
¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, you can take a look behind my house!¡± Qian Duoduo insisted, hoping to prove his innocence.
ck-jack grass was a warm, bitter herb with non-toxic properties. It had medicinal value, known for its ability to remove heat, detoxify, alleviate bruising and swelling, and treat digestive issues like diarrhea and enteritis.
Although the ck-jacks were prickly and could stick to clothes, they were not easily eliminated and even allowed to grow in some households¡¯ front and back areas.
Qian Duoduo did have ck-jack grass behind his house, which made him feel increasingly confident in his defense.
However, he hadn¡¯t anticipated that Qin Zhenzhen had already honed in on him and was systematically exposing his involvement.
Qin Zhenzhen examined the five cornss, noticing how the outeryers had been peeled off, revealing the golden kernels. Most of the tendrils had been torn off as well.
The thief had evidently wanted to reduce the size and weight of the stolen cornss, making them easier to conceal in the straw basket.
ncing at Qian Duoduo¡¯s basket, Qin Zhenzhen alerted Qian Erhu, ¡°The person who stole the cornss must have initially hidden them in the straw basket and then transferred them to the sweet potato field after the theft was discovered.¡±
¡°Look, the outer skin of the corn has been peeled off, and some of the silks have been ripped off but notpletely. We might find some additional evidence in the pig grass hidden in the field!¡± Qin Zhenzhen suggested.
Qian Erhu, who had been anxious about theck of evidence, quickly seized Qian Duoduo¡¯s basket and carefully examined its contents. He soon discovered three strands of corn silks
Qian Duoduo was about to offer an exnation when Qin Zhenzhen presented another point.
¡°Your fields are wet, and the footprints should be quite distinct. You canpare the footprints with his shoes!¡±
Qian Duoduo regretted not returning home and instead remaining to witness the unfolding events. He was tempted to flee, but Ms. Lin intercepted him.
¡°You think you can just run away? Not so fast!¡±
Qian Erhu proceeded to remove his shoes. If they matched the footprints, Qian Duoduo¡¯s defense would crumble.
Chapter 27
Friends
Seeing that he couldn¡¯t escape, Qian Duoduo reluctantly admitted his guilt. ¡°Please, don¡¯t take off my shoes! I confess, I stole the corn.¡±
The shoes he wore were his only pair of cloth shoes. If they were taken away, he feared he would be left without any footwear.
¡°You little rascal! You stole it yourself and now you¡¯re trying to frame Su Cheng!¡± Qian Erhu eximed, his hand ready to strike, but Ms. Lin intervened just in time.
¡°Stop! Don¡¯t hit him! If you do, he might go back on his confession, and we won¡¯t receive anypensation!¡± Ms. Lin cautioned.
Qian Duoduo¡¯s father was not someone to be trifled with. While stealing a hundred yuan was beyond belief, stealing even a single yuan would result in a punishment ten times worse. Ms. Lin had to make sure they got something out of it.
Angry and sorrowful, Su Cheng confronted Qian Duoduo, ¡°Why did you hide the corn in my sweet potato field? Were you intentionally trying to frame me?!¡±
Qian Duoduo guiltily exined, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to. I had nowhere else to hide it, and I never expected it to implicate you. I even tried to defend you¡¡±
Interrupting him with anger, Su Cheng retorted, ¡°No matter how much nonsense you spout, it doesn¡¯t excuse you from owning up to your actions!¡±
¡°I considered you a friend, but what about you?¡±
Moments ago, Su Cheng had almost been humiliated. Qian Duoduo knew Su Cheng was innocent, yet he still failed to confess.
Blushing, Qian Duoduo lowered his head in shame.
At that moment, the vige chief, Qian Guangcai, arrived with two men trailing behind him.
Qian Guangcai, who earned two liang a month as the vige chief, was responsible for managing the vige¡¯s affairs.
Ms. Lin was a troublemaker in the vige, and Qian Guangcai¡¯s mood would sour every time he encountered her.
He asked with a stern expression, ¡°What is going on here, Ms. Lin? I heard you were nning to publicly humiliate your nephew by taking off his pants?¡±
Ms. Lin put on a fake smile. ¡°Vige Chief, it was just a misunderstanding. I was merely trying to scare him.¡±
Then, Ms. Lin recounted the incident, conveniently leaving out her wrongdoing towards Su Cheng.
However, Su Cheng stood up and courageously told the truth, not caring if it offended his aunt.
The young boys took turns testifying, supporting Su Cheng¡¯s ount.
The vige chief¡¯s face turned dark. ¡°Ms. Lin! You are the most troublesome and unreasonable person in this vige! Consider this your final warning. If such an incident urs again in the future, I will personally ensure you receive 30shes!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had no interest in witnessing how the vige chief would handle the stolen corn situation. She turned around and headed home.
¡°Fifth Brother, let¡¯s not watch any longer. This is just bad luck!¡± Su Ning hastily pulled Su Cheng along and followed Qin Zhenzhen home.
Despite being exonerated, Su Cheng couldn¡¯t find happiness in the oue. Qian Duoduo had been his only friend in the vige, but this friend had nearly subjected him to humiliation.
To say that he wasn¡¯t angry would be a lie.
To say that he wasn¡¯t saddened would be a lie as well.
Su Ning expressed his disdain for Qian Duoduo as they walked along.
¡°I never expected Qian Duoduo to be like this!¡±
¡°Fifth Brother, let¡¯s not y with him anymore. There¡¯s definitely something wrong with his character!¡±
¡°If it weren¡¯t for Third Sister-inw¡¯s intervention today, Aunt would have stripped off your pants!¡±
¡°In such a situation, Qian Duoduo didn¡¯t have the courage to confess. I can forgive him, but he shouldn¡¯t have hidden the corn in our sweet potato field!¡±
¡°Right next to us is Qian Shan¡¯s family¡¯s sweet potato field, but he chose to hide it on our side. I suspect he did it on purpose!¡±
¡°He knew we were clearing the annual ragweeds nearby, making it easier for Aunt and others to misunderstand us!¡±
Su Cheng felt a deep sadness but remained silent.
Chapter 28
Worthy
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t be bothered to express her opinion;ziness got the better of her.
Even Su Ning could see through such obvious logic, so there was no reason why Su Cheng couldn¡¯t.
Qin Zhenzhen knew that Qian Duoduo was up to no good, yet she couldn¡¯t control Su Cheng¡¯s desire to remain friends with him.
As the three of them departed, the vigers around them engaged in lively discussions.
¡°Didn¡¯t they say that the chubby girl beats and scolds Su Cheng and his sister? But I saw how much she cared for them. The moment she arrived, she untied Su Cheng and did her best to protect his dignity.¡±
¡°That¡¯s right. People say Qin Zhenzhen is stubborn, reckless, domineering, and fierce, but I think she¡¯s reasonable and intelligent.¡±
¡°She didn¡¯t say a word, yet with just a few sentences, she cleared Su Cheng¡¯s name. Many men wouldn¡¯t have been able to do that, but she did.¡±
¡°That¡¯s why rumors can¡¯t be trusted!¡±
*
In the vige, there was a family who owned a rice shop in town. They kept a supply of rice in their house for the convenience of the vigers, allowing them to purchase or exchange it for other goods.
Qin Zhenzhen headed straight to their house, intending to buy some rice.
Due to the dy caused by Su Cheng¡¯s incident, it was alreadyte, so she decided to have lunch before returning to her parents¡¯ house in the afternoon.
She recalled Su Ning mentioning that there was no more rice left in the rice jar.
Su Cheng and Su Ning found it puzzling.
How did she know they were nning to buy rice?
Su Bin had given Su Cheng his living expenses the day before, so he was prepared to purchase ten catties of rice.
However, Qin Zhenzhen took out half a liang and said, ¡°I want to buy 50 catties of rice.¡±
Thedy boss smiled warmly and responded, ¡°Alright, alright, I¡¯ll weigh it for you right away.¡±
Both Su Ning and Su Cheng were taken aback. Why was she buying such arge quantity?
How long did she n on eating alone?
Qin Zhenzhen reached out to Su Cheng for the rice bag. ¡°Give me the bag.¡±
Su Cheng was torn. ¡°We need rice too. I want to buy ten catties.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen looked at him. ¡°I bought 25 kilograms. You don¡¯t have to buy it now. You can get someter.¡±
Su Ning quickly pulled on Fifth Brother¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Give the rice bag to Third Sister-inw.¡±
If she heard correctly, the 25 kilograms of rice bought was for the whole family.
Although she felt like the impossible had happened, Su Ning was delighted.
Qin Zhenzhen walked steadily, shouldering the 50 catties of rice.
The vigers couldn¡¯t help but discuss when they saw this.
¡°It¡¯s worth it for Su Bin to marry such a capable girl. Instead of needing a dowry, she brings one.¡±
¡°I heard her dowry alone is worth more than ten taels of silver.¡±
¡°What matters more is that she¡¯s willing to use her family¡¯s money now. Su Ning and Su Cheng won¡¯t go hungry anymore.¡±
¡°She¡¯s also so strong. She¡¯s no less capable than any man when ites to farming.¡±
¡°And she genuinely cares for her husband¡¯s younger siblings. She protects Su Cheng as if he were her own brother.¡±
News of Qin Zhenzhen clearing Su Cheng¡¯s name had already spread throughout the vige.
The vigers were simple-minded, believing that rumors couldn¡¯t be trusted. As a result, they reevaluated their perception of Qin Zhenzhen.
Su Ning and Su Cheng had mixed expressions upon hearing the vigers¡¯ments.
If Qin Zhenzhen truly changed for the better, it wasn¡¯t that they couldn¡¯t ept it. The main concern was their older brother¡¯s reaction.
Upon returning home, Qin Zhenzhen poured the rice into the rice jar.
Su Ning disyed more familiarity and closeness towards Qin Zhenzhen than before. She sought Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s opinion, asking, ¡°Third Sister-inw, should we still make porridge for lunch?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t surprised by Su Ning¡¯s behavior. She had already promised to treat Su Ning well when Su Ning pleaded with her.
She didn¡¯t expect this girl to keep her word.
Haha, since this girl was being kind to her, she would reciprocate the kindness.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°Let¡¯s cook rice, stir-fry some cabbage, fry some eggs, and fill our stomachs.¡±
Chapter 29
Why Would I Lie to You?
Su Cheng couldn¡¯t help but mutter, ¡°This is too extravagant. Considering our family¡¯s financial situation, we can¡¯t afford to eat rice¡¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen insisted, ¡°You and Su Ning are still growing. If you eat in porridge every day, you¡¯ll be malnourished. Without proper growth, you might even fall ill.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll cover the cost of the rice from now on.¡±
Su Cheng was taken aback. ¡°Are you not joking?¡±
Yesterday, she was so generous because their older brother was home. She wanted to impress him.
Now that their older brother had already left for the academy, she was still willing to spend money to help them?
One had to understand that taking care of a poor family was difficult. It required a significant amount of money to support him and his sister. After all, her dowry had its limits.
Yet, he saw Qin Zhenzhen nod. ¡°I¡¯m serious. We can eat rice for the next half month, and I can still afford to pay for it.¡±
She handed him another half a liang.
¡°I¡¯ll go to the vige this afternoon to buy some eggs. We may not be able to afford meat for now, but we must have eggs to maintain our nutrition.¡±
She was too good to them! Su Cheng and Su Ning exchanged nces.
Su Ning couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°If¡ if my older brother doesn¡¯t sleep with you¡ if he doesn¡¯t sleep with you, should I return this money to you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t know whether tough or cry.
¡°Don¡¯t worry! I¡¯m kind to you not because I want you to persuade your older brother to sleep with me. I want to divorce your older brother!¡±
¡°But regardless of the oue, I won¡¯t ept the money back!¡±
Su Cheng and Su Ning were dumbfounded.
The thought of Qin Zhenzhen wanting to divorce their older brother left them in disbelief.
Su Ning suddenly felt a pang of reluctance, not wanting Qin Zhenzhen to leave their home.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s culinary skills were so impressive that Su Ning even considered her as her mentor.
¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. We¡¯ll have rice for lunch, and I¡¯ll handle the cooking,¡± Su Ning assured.
Su Ning¡¯s eyes sparkled with curiosity. She wondered just how skilled Qin Zhenzhen was in the kitchen.
¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go steam the rice!¡±
¡°Fifth Brother, go and gather the vegetables.¡±
¡°Take a rest for a while, Third Sister-inw. I¡¯ll call you when the vegetables are ready.¡±
*
Su Ping didn¡¯t return for lunch.
Despite having only two dishes for lunch, Qin Zhenzhen and the siblings were thoroughly satisfied. The white rice, stir-fried cabbages, and fried eggs with chives were all delicious.
Su Ning looked at Qin Zhenzhen with growing admiration. She couldn¡¯t help but make a request. ¡°Third Sister-inw, can I learn cooking from you? The dishes you make are too tasty!¡±
¡°I tried making egg and vegetable pancakes this morning, but they didn¡¯t turn out as good as yours.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t hesitate to agree. ¡°Of course. If you want to learn, I¡¯ll be happy to teach you.¡±
Apart from having the advantage of spirit water, Qin Zhenzhen had decent cooking skills to begin with.
In the book, Su Ning was portrayed as exceptionally talented in cooking. Taking her in as a disciple would be the first step in improving her rtionship with the Su family.
¡°Thank you, Third Sister-inw!¡± Su Ning couldn¡¯t contain her joy.
After Qin Zhenzhen returned to her room, Su Ning whispered to Su Cheng about something peculiar.
¡°Not only is she skilled at stir-frying, but she also used the water used to wash the pot to cook food for the pigs. And then, all the piglets disappeared. Don¡¯t you find it strange?¡±
Su Cheng was taken aback. ¡°Are you serious?¡±
¡°I swear! Why would I lie to you?¡±
¡°Do you think she put something good in the food?¡±
Su Cheng pondered and replied, ¡°Well, what else do you think she released?¡±
Su Ning shook her head. ¡°I really can¡¯t guess, so I asked you.¡±
Su Cheng¡¯s expression turnedplex. ¡°I can¡¯t guess either, but I feel like she¡¯s a different person now!¡±
¡°If only she had been like this from the beginning.¡±
Chapter 30
Fish in the Water
Su Cheng couldn¡¯t help but rey in his mind how Qin Zhenzhen had helped him clear his name. Her protective demeanor and intelligence were nothing like the Qin Zhenzhen they had known before.
Could a person truly change so drastically?
Su Ning nodded in agreement, remaining silent.
¡°She does seem like apletely different person. I believe she genuinely wants to divorce Third Brother.¡±
Despite it being autumn, the afternoon sun was still scorching.
Qin Zhenzhen decided to go out when the sun began to set, or perhaps she would return to her parents¡¯ house the following morning. She wasn¡¯t in a rush.
She decided to take a nap after lunch.
The old-fashioned house provided a cool respite from the heat. With no fan or air conditioning, one could still sleep soundly.
Qin Zhenzhen felt an overwhelming wave of drowsiness enveloping her body.
In the courtyard, Su Ning pleaded with Su Cheng in a soft voice.
¡°Fifth Brother, let¡¯s go fishing too. I really want to eat some fish. It¡¯s been so long since we had any meat.¡±
Su Cheng shook his head. ¡°Catching fish in the river isn¡¯t easy. Even if we¡¯re lucky, we might only catch a few small ones after waiting for hours. And if luck isn¡¯t on our side, we might not catch anything at all.¡±
¡°You know how unlucky we are. We always return empty-handed. So, let¡¯s not go. It¡¯s better not to waste our time.¡±
Trying to console his sister, Su Cheng continued, ¡°Our second brother went hunting in the mountains. Maybe we¡¯ll have some meat tonight.¡±
But Su Ning remained reluctant. ¡°What if Second Brotheres back empty-handed again?¡±
After all, the chances of their second brother sessfully hunting prey were quite slim.
¡°I have a feeling that luck is on our side today. Look, Aunt and the others tried to frame you, but Third Sister-inw proved your innocence.¡±
¡°So, I believe we can catch some fish today.¡±
Su Ning¡¯s desire for meat was strong.
However, Su Cheng remained uninterested. ¡°I need to water the vegetables in the backyardter. They¡¯ve been drying in the sun.¡±
Su Ning couldn¡¯t hide her disappointment, but she understood not to push further.
¡°Fine, I won¡¯t go then.¡±
Su Cheng suggested, ¡°Why don¡¯t you call Qian Xiaohua to join you? I taught you how to fishst time.¡±
Su Ning pouted. ¡°Qian Xiaohua and her brother have already gone!¡±
She only felt motivated to go fishing when she saw Qian Xiaohua and her brother doing it.
However, she couldn¡¯t be unreasonable if Su Cheng had to water the vegetables.
¡°Forget it. If I go alone, I probably won¡¯t be able to catch anything since I haven¡¯t learned properly.¡±
Even her mentor couldn¡¯t catch fish, let alone her.
She asked Su Cheng to apany her because she had hope.
But going alone was out of the question, as she might be aughingstock.
Seeing his sister¡¯s unhappiness, Su Cheng relented. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go with you. We¡¯ll both shower the nts when wee back.¡±
Su Ning happily jumped up. ¡°Hehe, Fifth Brother, you¡¯re the best! We can shower the nts together when we get back.¡±
The siblings headed to the river with excitement to catch fish.
By the time Qin Zhenzhen woke up, the sun was already setting.
The disappointed siblings returned from their fishing trip.
¡°Fifth Brother, I just don¡¯t understand. Why can they catch fish while we can¡¯t?¡±
Su Cheng replied, ¡°Maybe our fishing skills aren¡¯t as good. Fishing requires technique.¡±
¡°When I sell the cabbages, I¡¯ll buy fish for you, okay?¡±
Su Ning shook her head. ¡°No need. We should save the money from selling the cabbages. Plus, cabbages aren¡¯t easy to sell, and they¡¯re not expensive.¡±
Then, she smiled again. ¡°I¡¯ll wait for Second Brother toe back and see if he managed to hunt any rabbits!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart skipped a beat. The fish in the river were known to be exceptionally delicious, especially in ancient times when there was no pollution. The freshness of the river made the fish even more vorful.
Chapter 31
Fish
There was another thought in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mind. She wanted to test whether the fragrance of the spirit watering from her fingers would be particrly attractive to animals.
At noon, she intentionally dripped two drops of spirit water into a pot of water. Surprisingly, the piglet, who had lost its appetite, suddenly devoured the pig¡¯s food with gusto, its belly bing round as it kept eating.
This made Qin Zhenzhen wonder if adding spirit water to the bait would have a simr effect on fish. She wanted to give it a try.
Qin Zhenzhen stopped Su Ning. ¡°You went fishing earlier, right? Did you catch any fish?¡±
Su Ning nodded. ¡°No, we didn¡¯t catch anything.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and said, ¡°Do you really want to eat fish? We can go fishing again.¡±
Su Ning¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Do you know how to fish too?¡±
She had been disappointed before, but upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words, she regained hope.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°When I was young, I often went fishing with my brother. I even caught fish by myself.¡±
In the original host¡¯s memories, she had indeed gone fishing frequently with her brother.
In Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s modern life, she had also apanied her grandfather on fishing trips. She had acquired the knowledge and skills of fishing.
Su Ning eagerly said, ¡°Third Sister-inw, wait for me. I¡¯ll go dig for earthworms!¡±
She had prepared more than ten raw earthworms and two small sweet potatoes roasted in the fire as bait.
However, Su Cheng had used them all, and he hadn¡¯t caught a single small fish.
Su Ning quickly dug up more than ten earthworms from behind the house and wrapped them with mud in banana leaves.
¡°Third Sister-inw, let¡¯s go!¡±
Su Ning grabbed a small fish basket, hoping that they would be able to catch a fish to put in it.
Meanwhile, Qin Zhenzhen pondered for a moment and decided to bring a wooden bucket with her. If they managed to catch multiple fish, it would be better to keep them in water to ensure their survival.
Seeing Qin Zhenzhen with the wooden bucket, Su Cheng couldn¡¯t help but roll his eyes inwardly. Did she think they were fishing in a pond? However, he restrained himself from mocking her since she had helped him clear his name.
He simply reminded his sister, ¡°Don¡¯t stay out toote, and be careful!¡±
He didn¡¯t have time to waste watching Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s antics. He needed to go and harvest the vegetables.
Su Ning giggled. ¡°I understand, Fifth Brother. We¡¯ll definitely catch a fish!¡±
Her perception of her third sister-inw hadpletely changed. She now regarded her as a valuable treasure.
The confidence radiating from Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face was contagious, and Su Ning believed that they would indeed be able to enjoy a fish for dinner tonight!
Most of the boys in the vige only went fishing by the river during the noon break from their farm work. They saw it as a form of leisure rather than serious fishing.
When Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning arrived at the river, there were no other boys fishing. Instead, they were met withughter and mockingments from the boys who had gathered there.
¡°Hehehe, look at that! A housewife trying to fish!¡±
¡°She¡¯s just azy farmer!¡±
¡°Yeah, she¡¯s someone else¡¯s wife, but she doesn¡¯t do any work andes here to fish. She¡¯s shameless!¡±
¡°I bet they won¡¯t catch a single fish!¡±
The boys were skeptical about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ability to catch fish, especially since they themselves struggled to catch any.
Qian Xiaohua, who had been observing the situation, also found it strange. Su Ning had previously despised her third sister-inw and even wished her harm. But now, they were chatting andughing together while fishing. It left Qian Xiaohua puzzled.
¡°I will see if Su Ning has got her head injuried.¡± She approached Su Ning and pulled her aside.
¡°What¡¯s going on with you? Weren¡¯t you filled with hatred for her? Why are you suddenly so close to her?¡±
Chapter 32
I¡¯ll Try Too
Su Ning spoke in a hushed tone, exining, ¡°That was in the past, not now! She has improved since then, and I must treat her well.¡±
¡°Just because she helped your fifth brother clear his name?¡± Qian Xiaohua sneered. ¡°I find it hard to believe she¡¯s capable¡¡±
Su Ning interrupted her. ¡°I will exin everything to you in detailter. Right now, I don¡¯t have the time.¡±
With that, Su Ning hurried back to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s side, not wanting to keep her sister-inw waiting for too long.
Upon reaching the river, Qin Zhenzhen found a suitable spot and began baiting the hook.
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s familiarity with the task, Su Ning¡¯s hope grew.
¡°At noon, there were so many people. They were making so much noise that it scared away the fish.¡±
¡°Now, it¡¯s much better. It¡¯s just the two of us, and it¡¯s so peaceful.¡±
¡°I think we can catch some fish!¡±
Su Ning encouraged Qin Zhenzhen with enthusiasm.
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and nodded. She added a few drops of spiritual water onto the bait and lowered the hook into the river.
After a while, a remarkable sight unfolded. The floating fish indicator suddenly plunged beneath the water¡¯s surface. It seemed like arge fish had taken the bait!
Qin Zhenzhen swiftly lifted the fishing rod, and a two-cattie carp emerged from the water.
Su Ning cheered, ¡°We caught a big fish! We caught a big fish! Third Sister-inw, you¡¯re amazing!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen calmly ced the carp on the riverbank. Su Ning hurried over, held it down, removed the hook, and carefully deposited the fish into the wooden bucket.
The wooden bucket was already filled with river water, but therge carp with injured lips sshed in the bucket.
Su Ning couldn¡¯t stop smiling. When she looked at Qin Zhenzhen again, she had already ced the hook in the river. After a while, another big carp was caught.
Qin Zhenzhen caught six fish in one go, four big ones and two small ones.
Su Ning¡¯s ecstasy was indescribable.
She couldn¡¯t help but ask softly, afraid that her words might scare away the fish in the river, ¡°Third Sister-inw, do you think we were lucky to stumble upon a school of fish?¡±
It would be hard for anyone to believe that they had caught six fish in a row.
But she had witnessed it with her own eyes.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°It¡¯s highly possible. Why don¡¯t I give it a try?¡±
¡°Let me have a go too!¡± Su Ning eagerly took hold of the fishing rod.
As expected, with the addition of spirit water as bait, the fish in the river eagerly fought for it. Naturally, the smaller fish couldn¡¯tpete with therger ones, so Su Ning caught more big fish and fewer small fish.
When Su Ning sessfully reeled in two big fish and a small one, her face flushed red with excitement.
She hadn¡¯t expected that she would be able to catch such sizable fish!
This stroke of good luck was undoubtedly brought about by her third sister-inw.
However, Qin Zhenzhen decided to stop there and refrain from adding more spirit water to the bait.
Nine fish were sufficient. Any more would raise suspicions.
Su Ning changed the bait twice in a row but failed to catch any more fish. She handed the fishing rod to Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Third Sister-inw, you take over.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and replied, ¡°Okay!¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen found herself in the same predicament. The changed baits did not work either.
¡°Third Sister-inw, do you think the fish have escaped, and that¡¯s why we¡¯re not catching any more?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen suppressed herughter. ¡°Perhaps.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s pack up and head home. These nine fish should be enough.¡±
Su Ning had no objections and happily gathered her fishing gear.
¡°Alright! Time to pack up and head home!¡±
Su Ning selected two fish to cook for dinner and ced them in the fish basket, lightening the load of the wooden bucket.
After all, she nned to cook them in the evening, so she wasn¡¯t concerned about their survival.
Qin Zhenzhen made no attempt to stop her. Carrying the wooden bucket, she effortlessly followed behind.
Chapter 33
When Are You Coming Back?
As they walked, Su Ning couldn¡¯t resist the urge to show off. Whenever she spotted someone, she called out to them, beckoning them toe and see the fish.
¡°Did you catch all these fish with your third sister-inw?¡±
The little girls looked on with envy.
The little boys wore expressions of disbelief.
Su Ning took the opportunity to exin, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right! It happened under the big tree by the river. Maybe we got lucky and stumbled upon a hungry school of fish. As soon as we baited the hook, they eagerly took it!¡±
¡°After a while, we ended up catching nine fish.¡±
The little boys saw the fish in the wooden bucket with their own eyes, finally believing Su Ning¡¯s ount.
Curiosity took hold, and they started bombarding her with questions.
¡°Su Ning, what did you use as bait?¡±
¡°Was it roasted sweet potatoes or earthworms? Or something else delicious?¡±
¡°Did you use arge piece of sweet potato or a small one?¡±
¡°Did you use a whole earthworm or just half?¡±
Su Ning generously answered all their questions at once.
¡°My third sister-inw said that we didn¡¯t need a lot of bait. The key was to entice the fish with its scent. So, we used a small piece of earthworm as bait each time.¡±
The little boys exchanged nces. It didn¡¯t seem like a fancy fishing technique, but they couldn¡¯t deny the fact that they had caught so many fish.
Was it possible that there were truly hungry fish in the river?
It was better to err on the side of caution.
So, the little boys, who were eagerly yearning for some meat, abandoned their farm work and hurried home to fetch their fishing rods before rushing to the river.
Qin Zhenzhen was at a loss for words, but she couldn¡¯t deny the existence of fish in the river.
*
When they returned home, they were astounded by the abundance of fish.
Su Ning excitedly recounted the entire process.
Su Cheng gazed at his sister, his disbelief evident. ¡°You actually caught three fish too?¡±
Su Ning nodded enthusiastically. ¡°Yes! I caught three fish all by myself. Isn¡¯t that impressive?¡±
¡°But Third Sister-inw is the true champion. She picked the perfect spot, used just the right bait, and taught me the best techniques!¡±
Su Cheng still struggled toprehend it all.
How could something so magical happen?
If only he had known, he would have gone with them to witness this extraordinary phenomenon.
Su Ning cheerfully transferred the seven fish from the bucket into the water tank.
The tworge fish in the fish basket would be prepared for dinner.
¡°Third Sister-inw, I was thinking of making goldfish soup and half-frying themon carp. What do you think?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Sounds good.¡±
¡°It would be even better if you could cook. I¡¯ll assist you.¡±
Su Ning had developed trust in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cooking skills.
However, Qin Zhenzhen surprised her by saying, ¡°No, cook it yourself. I¡¯ll be going back to my parents¡¯ houseter.¡±
¡°Huh?¡± Su Ning was taken aback.
Why was Qin Zhenzhen going back to her parents¡¯ house?
Was she nning to convince her brother to divorce their third brother?
Su Ning didn¡¯t want Qin Zhenzhen and her third brother to separate. What should she do¡
¡°When¡ when will you being back?¡±
Su Ning was genuinely worried that Qin Zhenzhen might not return.
Qin Zhenzhen casually replied, ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±
Su Ning felt even more disheartened.
She really didn¡¯t want her third brother and Qin Zhenzhen to divorce¡
However, Qin Zhenzhen misunderstood Su Ning¡¯s intentions and reassured her, ¡°You can still eat the rice I bought. Even if I¡¯m not at home, you can eat it. You don¡¯t need to return it.¡±
Realizing the misunderstanding, Su Ning stammered and exined, ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant¡ I meant that Fifth Brother and I are still young and need an adult at home¡¡±
¡°With adults present, we won¡¯t be bullied.¡±
Just like this morning when her uncle¡¯s family had bullied her fifth brother.
¡°My second brother can¡¯t stay at home.¡±
Chapter 34
How Thick-Skinned
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. Wasn¡¯t this little girl¡¯s attitude towards her changing too quickly? From wishing her dead to now not wanting her to leave?
Well, she had to admit that she could indeed provide them with a sense of security and ensure they wouldn¡¯t go hungry.
Recalling how Su Cheng had been mistreated by their aunt and couldn¡¯t fight back, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but empathize. ¡°Then I¡¯lle back tomorrow.¡±
Su Ning let out a sigh of relief and suggested happily, ¡°Third Sister-inw, take these fish back. We won¡¯t be able to finish so many.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll take two big ones.¡±
She had already nned to bring tworge fish back for her family.
As she spoke, she headed to her room to pack her belongings. She wanted to make sure she had a change of clothes with her.
¡°I¡¯ll grab some straws,¡± Su Cheng offered, taking the initiative to help.
He skewered the fish with a few straws, making it easier to carry.
However, when he reached the door, he saw Ms. Lin approaching with a basket filled with five ears of corn.
Su Cheng¡¯s heart filled with anger at the sight of the corn. These were the stolen goods that had been confiscated earlier that morning!
Su Ning was equally annoyed as she couldn¡¯t close the door in time.
¡°What a persistent meddler!¡±
Their aunt must have overheard that they had caught severalrge fish and now wanted to take advantage of their good fortune.
Thinking about how she had mistreated her younger brother earlier that day, Su Ning wished she could drive their aunt away with a broom!
However, she was their aunt, so she did not dare to be disrespectful to her.
¡°Ning¡¯er, Cheng¡¯er.¡±
Ms. Lin greeted them warmly, but the siblings were not in the mood to engage with her.
Trying to control herself, Ms. Lin adopted a more subdued tone. ¡°Where is your third sister-inw?¡±
Su Ning reluctantly responded, ¡°My third sister-inw is in her room. She¡¯s heading back to her parents¡¯ houseter.¡±
Ms. Lin frowned. ¡°Why is she going back so soon? She just returned the day before yesterday!¡±
She had heard that Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning had gone fishing by the river and had a stroke of luck, catching nearly tenrge fish at once. Many people had witnessed it.
She had seized the opportunity toe and take advantage of the situation, thinking it wouldn¡¯t be a bad deal to exchange five ears of corn for a few big fish. Qin Zhenzhen was probably nning to send the fish back to her family.
Luckily, she had arrived promptly!
Noticing that Qin Zhenzhen hadn¡¯t left her room, Ms. Lin proceeded to exin the purpose of her visit. ¡°I¡¯vee here to apologize to you.¡±
¡°I understand that you can¡¯t be satisfied with just porridge. I couldn¡¯t bear to eat these five corns, so I came to give them to you as a gesture.¡±
Su Cheng¡¯s face turned cold. ¡°We don¡¯t want the corn! Take them back!¡±
Ms. Lin pretended not to hear him and ced the corn on the table. ¡°Consider it a small gift from your aunt. Don¡¯t be shy.¡±
Su Ning muttered under his breath, ¡°How shameless!¡±
¡°It¡¯s all my fault for misjudging the situation. Qian Duoduo is also to me. He wanted to frame Su Cheng, and I fell for it.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t me me. My family hasn¡¯t eaten meat for a long time, so my eyes are a little blurry.¡±
Ms. Lin rolled her eyes and shamelessly imed that she hadn¡¯t eaten meat in a long time.
Unfortunately for her, no one bothered to respond. Nobody was willing to give her any fish.
But she had the audacity of a thick-skinned person and walked towards the water tank.
¡°I¡¯m feeling thirsty. I¡¯ll have some water.¡±
In reality, she had overheard themotion near the water tank.
Then, she eximed in surprise, ¡°Wow! Where did you get so many fish? Which fish farm did you catch them from?¡±
Su Ning could only reply, ¡°No, Third Sister-inw and I went to the river and caught them!¡±
Chapter 35
Help
¡°Ha, then you¡¯re too lucky! You can¡¯t finish so many fish. I as the aunt can bring some and let your grandmother taste it.¡±
Ms. Lin said as she went to fetch the biggest fish in the water tank.
Su Ning quickly intervened. ¡°Aunt, you can¡¯t touch these fish. My third sister-inw wants to take them back to her family!¡±
She was correct. Ms. Lin raised her voice in excitement. ¡°She can only bring two back, but there are so many more in the water tank!¡±
Su Ning grew anxious. ¡°You have to ask my third sister-inw first. She caught these fish!¡±
Ms. Lin expressed her displeasure. ¡°Do you really need to ask? It¡¯s not for me, it¡¯s for your grandmother. As a younger generation, you should show filial piety to your elders, understand?¡±
Su Cheng exposed Ms. Lin¡¯s falsehood. ¡°You¡¯re lying. grandmother is visually impaired, and you stopped giving her fish a long time ago. You imed that you were afraid she would choke on the bones!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Your grandmother can¡¯t eat the fish, but she can have fish soup!¡±
¡°I brought these fish back to make soup.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t bear to listen any longer. She emerged from the room with her bag.
She would never give the fish to Ms. Lin.
Even if she had to release the fish back into the river, she wouldn¡¯t hand them over to Ms. Lin!
Standing in front of Ms. Lin, Qin Zhenzhen spoke firmly:
¡°There¡¯s no need to take the fish back, and there¡¯s no need for you to go through the trouble of cooking the fish. Su Ning and the others are nning to make fish soup tonight. When the timees, just pack a bowl for their grandmother.¡±
Su Ning immediately chimed in, ¡°Exactly! I¡¯ll bring a bowl of fish soup to grandmother. I¡¯ll even remove the fish bones and add the meat. You don¡¯t need to trouble yourself, Aunt.¡±
Ms. Lin grew infuriated. ¡°Qin Zhenzhen, with so many fish, why can¡¯t you take one to show filial piety to your grandmother? Let us judge her. Is she being insensitive? She¡¯s not even respecting her elders, yet she wants to take all the fish home!¡±
¡°Have you forgotten that you¡¯re already part of the Su family as a daughter-inw?¡±
Onlookers had gathered at the courtyard entrance, observing themotion.
Qin Zhenzhen responded with amusement, ¡°How are we not showing filial piety to our elders? Su Ning just said she will prepare a bowl of fish soup for grandmother, with the bones removed and the fish meat added. I guarantee it will be served to you better than anything you could do.¡±
¡°You¡¯re the one being insensitive, aren¡¯t you? You¡¯re the one who wants to satisfy your meat cravings but is using grandmother as an excuse!¡±
¡°I¡¯ll go back to my parents¡¯ house and bring two fish. Su Ning and the others will only cook two tonight, but the rest of the fish won¡¯t be given to you for nothing!¡±
¡°Do you really think you can exchange five measly corns for fish? Dream on!¡±
The vigers who had gathered burst intoughter at the scene.
Ms. Lin burst intoughter, her face turning red.
¡°I¡¯m still your elder! Even if I didn¡¯t bring corn, it¡¯s not too much to ask for a fish from you!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen mocked her. ¡°Since the moment you mistreated Su Cheng and tried to remove his pants, you ceased to be our elder. You¡¯re not worthy!¡±
Ms. Lin sneered. ¡°Whether I am your elder or not is not for you to decide!¡±
Su Ning and Su Cheng stood boldly beside Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Our third sister-inw is right! You¡¯re not deserving of being our elder!¡±
¡°Everyone witnessed what happened this morning. Let them be the judge. How can you call yourself an elder!¡±
The surrounding vigersughed once more.
Ms. Lin pointed at Qin Zhenzhen in anger and scolded, ¡°You ungrateful woman!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found it amusing. ¡°What have you ever done for me?¡±
Ms. Lin raised her voice. ¡°If it weren¡¯t for me giving you the idea, would you have been able to marry Su Bin?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen, with the memories of the original host, vividly recalled that Ms. Lin had encouraged the original host to strike Su Bin¡¯s face and had aided her in the process.
Chapter 36
Grandma with a Story
Ms. Lin¡¯s intention behind bringing up that matter was now clear.
She wanted to take credit for it!
Qin Zhenzhen became furious and pointed at Ms. Lin, scolding her.
¡°It¡¯s because of your foolish idea and your scheming that I ended up doing something so foolish. I¡¯ve already restrained myself from seeking revenge against you, and yet you still expect me to repay your supposed kindness?¡±
¡°And because of that, you even demanded two liang ofpensation from my family!¡±
¡°I know exactly what you¡¯re thinking. Ever since I married Su Bin, you shamelessly used our inw rtionship as an excuse to get discounted pork from my brother!¡±
Su Ning and Su Cheng finally realized the truth.
It was their aunt who had caused this whole situation!
¡°We need to inform our Third Brother about this!¡±
The surrounding vigers burst intoughter.
¡°Is this really happening?¡±
¡°Ms. Lin, you have no shame!¡±
¡°You truly don¡¯t deserve to be the elder of the Su siblings!¡±
Ms. Lin left the Su Family in anger, taking the five corns with her before she departed.
*
Qin Zhenzhen carefully carried the two big fish skewered with a straw back to her hometown, the Qin Family Vige.
Upon reaching home, she found that her brothers, sisters-inw, and even her parents had not yet returned from their work in the fields. Only her blind grandma was present.
In the original host¡¯s memories, her blind grandma was a person with a mysterious past.
However, her own family members were unaware of the details of her story.
Qin Zhenzhen knew only fragments, understanding that her grandma had originallye from a wealthy family. Due to her blindness and inability to secure a good marriage in the city, she had no choice but to marry into the countryside.
Her dowry had been substantial, enough to sustain her for the rest of her life. The Qin family had also reaped benefits from it.
Despite her blindness and inability to contribute physically, her grandma had never suffered neglect. On the contrary, herte grandfather had always been devoted to her.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s parents, siblings, and their spouses treated her grandma with equal care and respect. They made sure shecked for nothing.
However, ever since her grandma married into the countryside, she never spoke about her maternal family. She never returned to her maternal home, nor did any of her rtives visit her.
ording to her, all her family members had passed away. The dowry she had brought with her was the result of selling off her family¡¯s assets.
As for the circumstances surrounding her maternal family¡¯s demise, she refused to discuss it, and her family dared not pry, fearful of reopening old wounds.
Qin Zhenzhen quietly entered her grandma¡¯s room, finding Grandma Qin sitting serenely in front of the bronze mirror, her gaze tranquil.
In the original host¡¯s memories, her grandma often sat in this manner, remaining still for hours on end. Qin Zhenzhen wondered what thoughts upied her mind during those moments.
¡°Grandma, I¡¯m back,¡± Qin Zhenzhen softly announced her presence, approaching her grandma¡¯s side.
¡°Yeah,¡± Grandma Qin responded, her body unmoving.
In truth, she had already detected Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s return through her heightened senses and had been aware of themotion outside.
Qin Zhenzhen scanned her grandma¡¯s room, observing that despite her blindness, everything was neatly organized. Behind the bed, a small wooden box held her grandma¡¯s cherished possessions.
The original host had once stumbled upon the contents of that box, discovering a few books and handwritten manuscripts. Within those pages were special recipes incorporating medicinal herbs, each apanied by annotations.
Initially, Qin Zhenzhen had suspected that her grandma possessed knowledge of food therapy, much like herself. However, her grandma had never hinted at such expertise.
Desiring to examine the books and notes herself, Qin Zhenzhen mentioned, ¡°I brought fish back.¡±
Grandma Qin remainedposed. ¡°I know.¡±
She could perceive the distinct scent of fish and even identify the fragrance ofrge carp. She was aware that Qin Zhenzhen had already been in the kitchen, likely storing the fish there.
Chapter 37
Cooking Is Exhausting
Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°It¡¯s your favorite carp. I¡¯m going to use it to make soup.¡±
Grandma Qin didn¡¯t say anything this time, but she was listening very carefully.
This granddaughter of hers seemed to be different from before.
In the past, she rarely entered her room and rarely spoke to her, let alone tell her what to cook.
Qin Zhenzhen probed again, ¡°Grandma, I remember that carps are good for energizing the spleen, reducing swelling, clearing heat, and detoxification. They also have the function of circting and getting milk through.¡±
¡°If you want to double the effect of hydration and swelling, you have to add another medicinal herb to cook together, right?¡±
Grandma Qin became alert. ¡°Where did you hear that from?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen made up a lie. ¡°I read about it in a book, but I forgot what herbs to add. Grandma, do you remember what herbs to add?¡±
¡°I¡¯ve already bought barley. I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s right.¡±
Grandma Qin was stunned for a moment, but she quickly regained herposure. ¡°I don¡¯t understand these things.¡±
¡°But I remember you had a book on it, Grandma.¡±
Grandma Qin suddenly looked at Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°You flipped through those things?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve seen them.¡±
Grandma Qin¡¯s fingers were trembling, and her voice was very stern. ¡°How dare you look at them!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt perplexed. ¡°I only read it out of curiosity. It¡¯s not a forbidden book. Why are you so upset, Grandma?¡±
Grandma Qin¡¯s sudden outburst startled her. ¡°Leave! Don¡¯t enter without my permission in the future!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen stood there in shock. Her intention had been to confirm whether her grandma possessed knowledge of food therapy, seeking an exnation for her own proficiency in the subject. It was a way to avoid arousing suspicion among most people.
Yet, judging by her grandma¡¯s reaction, it seemed that Qin Zhenzhen had unintentionally touched upon a sensitive topic, exposing her grandma¡¯s hidden pain.
Filled with regret, Qin Zhenzhen apologized, ¡°Grandma, I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to upset you¡¡±
She quickly exited her grandma¡¯s room, avoiding eye contact with the face that had remained unchanged for countless years but was now flushed with agitation.
Well, she would simply state in the future that her dietary therapeutic knowledge was acquired from themon folk. As for the efficacy of the medicinal herbs she knew, she could attribute it to her study of medicinal books.
This was all thanks to the original host¡¯s father, who was a schr. Although he had only achieved Elementary Level and did not pass the Cultivated Talent test, he had instilled a love for knowledge in his four sons and one daughter, ensuring they had a goodmand of words.
Qin Zhenzhen proceeded to the kitchen and cleaned the two fish. She nned to make a pot of wet crucian carp and barley soup.
In the humid climate of the southern region, the asional dampness could affect people¡¯s well-being.
Word spread to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s parents that she had returned with two fish, prompting them to rush home.
Upon seeing Qin Zhenzhen washing the pot, Ms. Yang hurriedly intervened.
¡°Zhenzhen, my precious daughter, you have returned your mother¡¯s home. You should rest, and I¡¯ll take care of the cooking!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and replied, ¡°Mother, are you worried that I won¡¯t know how to cook and might waste the fish?¡±
Ms. Yang quickly reassured her, saying, ¡°I¡¯m not concerned about you wasting the ingredients! If you want to learn how to cook, I¡¯m more than happy to guide you, even if it means preparing a delicate dish.¡±
¡°As long as it¡¯s cooked by you, I guarantee that there won¡¯t be any dregs left. I¡¯ll eat it all.¡±
¡°But I¡¯m afraid it will tire you out.¡±
¡°Cooking is also a tiring job.¡±
Hahaha, the original host¡¯s mother really doted on her daughter!
She did it in a better way than her four brothers.
Qin Zhenzhen was in a good mood. ¡°In that case, let me try out these two fish tonight.¡±
¡°I¡¯m going to cook fish soup with carps. I¡¯ll fry the carp first before braising it and seasoning it with sweetness, sourness, and spices.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t move yet. Let me take a look at your wound.¡±
Ms. Yang checked Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s wound and was relieved to see that it was indeed very shallow.
Chapter 38
Things Have Deviated From Her n
Ms. Yang nced at the two cleaned fish, concerned that Qin Zhenzhen might waste them since she had never cooked at home before. However, since she had already given her permission, she couldn¡¯t take it back now.
With the thought that her daughter would eventually learn how to cook, Ms. Yang nodded happily. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll assist you.¡±
With her mother¡¯s guidance, it wouldn¡¯t be aplete waste.
Qin Shan waited for them to finish their conversation before asking Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Where did you get these two fish?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen told the truth. ¡°Su Bin¡¯s sister, Su Ning, and I caught them in the river in Qian Vige.¡±
Both Ms. Yang and Qin Shan were surprised. ¡°We didn¡¯t know that Su Ning is such a skilled fishergirl.¡±
They were well aware of their daughter¡¯s capabilities. She had gone fishing with her brothers before, but that was mainly for fun, and she rarely caught anything.
Qin Zhenzhen found it difficult to exin the whole situation, so she responded vaguely, ¡°Fishing is actually quite simple.¡±
However, Qin Shan disagreed. ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. Fishing requires a lot of knowledge.¡±
Ms. Yang couldn¡¯t help but ask again, her curiosity piqued. ¡°But you told us before that the girl treated you as an enemy and constantly targeted you. So why would she bring the fish back to our house? Did you forcefully take them from her?¡±
Ms. Yang knew her daughter well. It was not umon for Qin Zhenzhen to take things forcefully from others. She sighed, feeling like her efforts to teach her daughter had been in vain once again.
Qin Zhenzhenughed awkwardly and quickly rified the situation. ¡°I went fishing with her. She caught some fish, and I caught some too. I brought two big ones back to our house, but I still have seven more fish at home!¡±
¡°In fact, she was the one who suggested that I bring the fish back to our family. They even helped me skewer the fish with a straw to make it easier to carry.¡±
Ms. Yang still seemed unconvinced. ¡°Are you really getting along so well with them now?¡±
Just the day before yesterday, when Qin Zhenzhen came back, she was seething with anger when talking about her sister-inw and brother-inw. Now, things seemed to have changed so quickly.
Qin Zhenzhen continued to exin, hoping to rify the situation. ¡°Perhaps because I intervened and stopped my brothers from fighting, our rtionship has improved a bit.¡±
Ms. Yang became emotional upon hearing this. ¡°I¡¯ve always said that people can change their minds. If you treat them well, they will treat you well in return. Mother wasn¡¯t wrong, was she?¡±
When her sons returned yesterday, they shared what had happened with her. She had disagreed with them beating up their son-inw and pressuring their daughter into consummating the marriage. She believed such actions would only harm her daughter.
Fortunately, her daughter listened to her and stopped the fight.
¡°That¡¯s the right thing to do. If you can establish a good sibling-like rtionship with them, the young master will surely see your virtues.¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t want to dwell on the topic any longer. She felt that the situation had deviated from her original n.
Qin Zhenzhen had returned to her family with the intention of persuading them to agree to her divorce from Su Bin. She didn¡¯t want to disclose that her rtionship with Su Bin¡¯s siblings had improved.
By the time Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s brothers and sisters-inw arrived home, the barley crucian carp soup she had prepared was already cooked. The soup exuded a mouthwatering aroma, with its milky white color.
Ms. Yang couldn¡¯t help but ask Qin Zhenzhen repeatedly, ¡°Did Su Ning teach you how to cook fish?¡±
She had just tasted a small sip of the fish soup, and it was so delicious that it almost made her tongue dance with joy.
It was simply incredible!
Her daughter, who had never cooked at home, managed to skillfully prepare such a delectable pot of fish soup.
Qin Zhenzhen casually replied, ¡°Yes, if you say so.¡±
¡°In reality, I havee across the recipe for this fish soup in books before. I just haven¡¯t had the chance to practice it until now.¡±
Chapter 39
Actually Solving a Case
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s family was arge one.
Her eldest and second brothers were already married but still lived together. Her eldest brother even had a two-year-old son.
With Qin Zhenzhen, her grandma, and her parents, the total number of family members was eleven.
The dining space was a bit cramped, with one main table and an additional low table. The two sisters-inw and the two-year-old nephew sat at the low table, but they didn¡¯t mind.
The food spread across both tables, showcasing the family¡¯svish dinner. There were dishes like pig feet and pig ears.
All three of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s brothers worked as butchers. They owned two pork stalls and a beef stall in town, ensuring a steady supply of meat in the household.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s brother and sisters-inw were astonished as they sipped her fish soup and savored the braised carp.
¡°Mother, did Zhenzhen really cook this fish soup and carp, not you?¡± they asked in disbelief.
Ms. Yang proudly confirmed, ¡°Yes, Zhenzhen cooked it herself! It¡¯s a delightful surprise. Zhenzhen is so talented and resourceful that she can amaze everyone with her first-time cooking.¡±
¡°Mother, you were the one who gave Zhenzhen pointers, right? But mother¡¯s fish cooking wasn¡¯t this delicious at all.¡±
¡°Is this called the student surpassing the master?¡±
¡°Hahaha, that must be it!¡±
Other than Grandma Qin, the entire familyughed happily.
Qin Zhenzhen observed her grandma closely, noting her reaction as she took a sip of the fish soup. Her hands trembled briefly, but she continued to drink without showing any other sign of emotion.
Curiosity consumed Qin Zhenzhen. What kind of experiences had her grandma gone through in the past?
Ms. Yang also wore a smile and inquired with genuine concern, ¡°Mom, how is the fish soup?¡±
Grandma Qin maintained her calm expression. ¡°It¡¯s eptable.¡±
Ms. Yang¡¯s happiness grew even more.
Her mother-inw was known for being meticulous about food, so for her to deem it eptable was quite rare.
Ms. Yang proudly added, ¡°Actually, I didn¡¯t teach Zhenzhen how to cook. It was Zhenzhen¡¯s sister-inw, Su Ning, who taught her. But it wouldn¡¯t be possible without Zhenzhen¡¯s own understanding and remarkable talent in cooking!¡±
The family eagerly showered Qin Zhenzhen with praise.
¡°This is the most incredible fish soup I¡¯ve ever had. The fish meat is simply exceptional!¡±
¡°Zhenzhen¡¯s cooking skills rival those of professional chefs in top-tier restaurants!¡±
¡°I dare say it¡¯s on par with the delicacies prepared by royal chefs!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel ted. The recognition from her family brought her immense joy.
She had deliberately showcased her culinary prowess to demonstrate her capabilities as a self-sufficient woman who could lead a fulfilling life without relying on a man. Her intention was to persuade her family to support her in pursuing a divorce.
However, before she could utter a word, Qin Dalong interjected.
¡°We bumped into Qian Erniu. He had something to tell us about Zhenzhen.¡±
Ms. Yang¡¯s curiosity was piqued. ¡°What is it? Please, do tell!¡±
Qin Dalong appeared perplexed. ¡°Zhenzhen, didn¡¯t you inform Mom and Dad about what happened?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I haven¡¯t had the chance to discuss it yet. It¡¯s just a minor issue.¡±
Ms. Yang grew increasingly anxious. ¡°What happened? Tell me right away!¡±
She worried about her daughter mistreating others, but she was equally concerned about her daughter being mistreated by others. Even if it was a minor issue, she wanted to know the details.
Qin Dalong proceeded to recount the incidents involving Ms. Lin¡¯s mistreatment of Su Cheng, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s efforts to prove Su Cheng¡¯s innocence, her fishing trip with Su Ning, and her rejection of Ms. Lin¡¯s proposal.
Ms. Yang was left speechless with astonishment.
¡°Zhenzhen, my precious daughter! You¡¯re truly remarkable! Solving a case like this requires the skills of a seasoned detective!¡±
¡°No wonder you have such a close bond with your sister-inw and brother-inw. So many extraordinary things have taken ce!¡±
Chapter 40
You Have a Special Fragrance
In this way, the son-inw¡¯s opinion of you will surely undergo a significant change.
¡°Haha, I¡¯ve already mentioned how fortunate our Zhenzhen is. When the timees¡¡±
Ms. Yang was about to continue, but Qin Shan pulled at her clothes.
¡°Let¡¯s eat. We can discuss thister.¡±
Ms. Yang noticed her mother-inw¡¯sck of enthusiasm and decided not to continue.
However, she found it quite peculiar. Her mother-inw had never meddled in her children¡¯s marriages before.
Her mother-inw had no objections to Zhenzhen marrying her son-inw.
There was no customary rule in their family against talking during meals.
So why was she unhappy?
Everyone noticed Grandma¡¯s displeased expression.
Consequently, everyone ceased their conversation.
After dinner, Grandma Qin suddenly summoned Qin Zhenzhen to her room.
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t ponder much on it. Whatever happens, she would face her grandma¡¯s scolding, at most.
Regardless, when the original host was reading the book, it was because she hadn¡¯t ced it in the box. It wasn¡¯t a banned book, so taking a nce wouldn¡¯t constitute a serious offense, right?
Grandma Qin deviated from her usual seating position and instructed Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Close the door!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shut the door.
Grandma Qin¡¯s room was expansive and profound. They conversed from behind the door, ensuring their conversation remained unheard by anyone outside.
¡°Who are you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was momentarily taken aback by her grandma¡¯s sudden question. She replied, ¡°Grandma, are you joking? It¡¯s me, Zhenzhen! Who else could it be?¡±
¡°You may deceive others, but you can¡¯t deceive me!¡±
Once again, Qin Zhenzhen was shocked.
It was said that blind individuals possessed the keenest sense of smell, but she had only undergone a soul switch, while her body remained the same. How could her grandma detect it?
¡°I¡¯m unsure why you¡¯ve suddenly made such a remark, Grandma. Could it be that the fish soup I prepared for the first time was so delectable that it raised suspicions of me being someone else?¡±
She truly desired to exin that her parents, brothers, and sisters-inw were not visually impaired. How could they fail to recognize her if she were a different person?
However, considering her grandma¡¯s blindness, it was inconvenient to mention such things.
Therefore, she shifted her approach to validate herself.
¡°Grandma, have you ever heard that culinary prowess stems from innate talent?¡±
¡°I believe that¡¯s the case for me.¡±
¡°I never cooked while I lived in my mother¡¯s house, but that doesn¡¯t mean I haven¡¯t studied the art of cooking. In fact, I quite enjoy reading books on the subject.¡±
¡°In the two months since I married into the Qian Vige, I have personally prepared three meals a day. It was during this time that I discovered my exceptional talent for cooking. The dishes I prepare are particrly mouthwatering.¡±
Nevertheless, Grandma Qin gazed at Qin Zhenzhen with eyes that held no sight.
¡°To achieve such a mastery in cooking fish soup, it would require at least a decade of dedicated effort!¡±
¡°Furthermore, there is a distinct aroma lingering around you. Although it¡¯s subtle, it doesn¡¯t escape my sense of smell!¡±
In other words, the original host never possessed such a fragrance before.
Qin Zhenzhen had an epiphany.
It seemed that grandma had detected the scent of the spiritual water!
Combining her culinary skills with this revtion, Grandma deduced that she wasn¡¯t the original Qin Zhenzhen.
Her grandma¡¯s sense of smell was truly extraordinary!
Qin Zhenzhen had no intention of admitting her reincarnation or confessing about the spiritual water on her finger.
She chuckled. ¡°Grandma, you have such a delightful sense of humor. Do I really have a distinctive fragrance? I can¡¯t seem to detect it myself.¡±
¡°By the way, my mother mentioned that after getting married, women gradually acquire a more feminine essence. Perhaps the fragrance you perceive is that of a woman.¡±
Chapter 41 - 41: Thoughts
Chapter 41: Thoughts
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Grandma Qin snorted, dismissing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words as nonsense.
However, Qin Zhenzhen remained serious and said, ¡°Grandma, please don¡¯t worry. If I were an imposter, my parents would have noticed by now.¡±
¡°You can inform my parents about this and have them confirm whether or not I am their daughter.¡±
Grandma Qin fell silent, realizing that Qin Zhenzhen had a point. She considered the fact that she could discern the authenticity of Qin Zhenzhen based on the aroma of the fish soup and her overall demeanor, which was not entirely convincing.
Her voice sounded the same, her scent matched, and her appearance seemed identical. That¡¯s why Qin Zhenzhen was so confident.
Yet, Grandma Qin couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Qin Zhenzhen was somehow different, despite the simrities.
Out of the blue, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°Grandma, do you remember how you used to enjoy cooking delicious meals, especially those infused with medicinal herbs and therapeutic effects?¡±
¡°Leave now!¡± Grandma Qin¡¯s breathing quickened as she waved her hand, signaling Qin Zhenzhen to go.
In confusion, Qin Zhenzhen exited the room.
Ms. Yang, who had been standing guard outside, breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing Qin Zhenzhen.
She discreetly pulled Qin Zhenzhen aside and whispered, ¡°What did your grandma want from you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen knew she couldn¡¯t reveal the truth.
¡°I tried exining everything to Grandma,¡± she replied.
Ms. Yang felt a sense of relief.
However, Qin Zhenzhen halted her, saying, ¡°Mom, I need to discuss something with you.¡±
Her words made Ms. Yang¡¯s expression darken.
Her sons had informed her that Zhenzhen had considered divorcing her husband due to his neglect.
But they had managed to convince her otherwise.
Was that what Zhenzhen wanted to discuss?
¡°Bring your father and brothers here,¡± Zhenzhen requested.
In the living room, everyone gathered except for Grandma.
Qin Zhenzhen spoke with utmost seriousness, ¡°Dad, Mom, Elder Brother, Second Brother, Third Brother, Fourth Brother, I have made up my mind want a divorce.¡±
Shock rippled through the room.
Qin Silong¡¯s fists clenched tightly. ¡°Zhenzhen, you keep insisting on a divorce. Did Su Bin do something to you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°No, he didn¡¯t do anything. I havee to this decision on my own. A forced watermelon doesn¡¯t taste sweet.¡±
Qin Dalong tried to persuade her, ¡°Zhenzhen, a woman who is divorced by her husband¡¯s family will be ridiculed for the rest of her life and may struggle to find a good match in the future.¡±
But Qin Zhenzhen countered, ¡°I am not a woman who needs to rely on a man for my livelihood. I don¡¯t care if I never get married.¡±
The entire family voiced their objections. ¡°That¡¯s not eptable!¡±
¡°I can support you at home, but a woman¡¯s life is iplete without marriage and children,¡± someone added.
Ms. Yang also attempted to persuade her, saying, ¡°Zhenzhen, Young Master¡¯s siblings are treating you well. If he sees that you are standing up for his siblings, he will treat you well too.¡±
Qin Erlong took a more direct approach. ¡°The fortune-teller predicted that you were destined for wealth, and Su Bin will undoubtedly rise to the top. Don¡¯t jeopardize your own destiny.¡±
¡°And besides, you would rather die than marry him. So why are you giving up now?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen stood her ground. ¡°I have made my decision after careful consideration.¡±
¡°Let me reveal the truth to you. Su Bin¡¯s second brother is a ruthless individual. He associates with viins in the martial world and carries a deadly knife with him at all times.¡±
¡°Yesterday, you witnessed his fearlessness towards you because he wields that knife.. He has nothing to fear!¡±
Chapter 42 - 42: Bad Plan
Chapter 42: Bad n
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The four Qin brothers spoke in unison, ¡°Zhenzhen, you underestimate us. Even with ten knives, he can¡¯t defeat us!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen patiently exined, ¡°I¡¯m just concerned that if he fails to defeat you, he might be so enraged that he seeks revenge through his dangerous acquaintances. ¡±
¡°All of his friends are skilled knife-wielders. If a confrontation ensues, someone might end up losing their life. It¡¯s not ideal for us to be at a disadvantage or for casualties to ur.¡±
Qin Silong came up with an idea. ¡°What if we have our Uncle find a way to incriminate him and have him thrown into prison?¡±
Their brother-inw held a position at the county office and had a team of guards under hismand.
But Qin Zhenzhen interrupted him. ¡°Don¡¯t do that! If we take such action, he will retaliate by finding someone to harm us!¡±
Ms. Yang agreed. ¡°Zhenzhen is right. I am against resorting to violence, but I also oppose Zhenzhen¡¯s divorce.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s not provoke him or force him. Let nature take its course.¡±
¡°Yesterday, your brothers mentioned that when you proposed the divorce, your husband remained silent. I believe he trulv does not want a divorce.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen turned to her mother, knowing that her mother understood Su Bin well.
Su Bin was so vengeful that he wouldn¡¯t easily agree to a divorce. He intended to torment her.
However, Ms. Yang added, ¡°That¡¯s because hecks a strong family background. Without achievements, it would be difficult for him to find another spouse.¡±
¡°Zhenzhen is already officially married to him, and a divorce must be reported to the government office. If your uncle makes some discreet moves, Su Bin might never be able to take the imperial examination, which would be a more severe consequence than harming him physically.¡±
¡°Moreover, our Zhenzhen is beautiful, and she is devoted to taking care of her siblings at home. Now that she has be skilled in cooking, it¡¯s incredibly challenging to find a wife with such qualities.¡±
Hearing Ms. Yang¡¯s words, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of amusement and exasperation.
She didn¡¯t feel embarrassed at all when her mother praised her.
Anyone who married the original host would have experienced misfortune.
Qin Shan, who had remained silent, reached a conclusion.
¡°Your mother is right. The four of you should never go to Young Master¡¯s house to confront him.
¡°Zhenzhen, you can¡¯t be so stubborn. Listen to me and hold off on the divorce for now.¡¯
¡°You have been doing an excellent jobtely. Treat your brothers and sister well, and he will definitely see your value.¡±
Reluctantly, the four brothers nodded in agreement. ¡°We will follow your lead. As long as the Su Family doesn¡¯t mistreat Zhenzhen, we won¡¯t take any action against Su Bin.¡±
Ms. Yang grasped Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hands. ¡°Zhenzhen, what do you think?¡± All eyes turned to Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen turned to her four brothers. ¡°I promise not to divorce Su Bin for the time being, but you must promise me not to force him to sleep with me. We have to let things unfold naturally.¡±
¡°Also, let¡¯s try to avoid any conflicts with him.¡±
ording to the book, Su Ping was a character who attacked others with knives. After bing a bandit, he did whatever he pleased.
He was also portrayed as an indestructible cockroach, always managing to escape death.
In the end, after living for seven or eight years, he was killed by the male and female protagonists.
Before they had the ability to eliminate him, they should never provoke such a dangerous person.
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s decision to postpone the divorce, everyone felt relieved and happy.
Divorce was indeed not a good idea.
Qin Shan and Ms. Yang also urged the four brothers not to provoke Su Bin.
Finally, Qin Zhenzhen felt a sense of reassurance..
Chapter 43 - 43: You Are Back
Chapter 43: You Are Back
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen devised a n to mend her rtionship with the Su Family first. Her strategy involved waiting until Su Bin became a Cultivated Talent and was in a good mood before discussing divorce with him.
If he was in high spirits, there was a chance he might agree.
So far, it wasn¡¯t too difficult to improve her rapport with Su Cheng and Su Ning.
The real troubley with Su Bin and Su Ping.
Based on the book¡¯s portrayal, Qin Zhenzhen had developed a strong aversion to Su Bin when he exterminated the Qin Family.
There was no denying that Su Bin¡¯s character in the book was cunning, sinister, and vengeful.
The original host had humiliated him greatly, and he held no forgiveness in his heart.
However, Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯tpletelycking in confidence.
She was well-versed in the plot. She could help the Su Family avoid some of the misfortunes destined for them, and she could assist Su Bin in evading the schemes devised against him, enabling him to take a smoother path.
As long as she provided him with enough assistance, she believed she could persuade him to let her go.
Qin Zhenzhen enjoyed a peaceful sleep in her own room.
The next day, she decided to have lunch before heading back to Qian Vige.
Qin Zhenzhen refrained from cooking as she didn¡¯t want to upset her grandmother.
Grandma stopped probing her with further questions.
Ms. Yang doted on her daughter and prepared steamed glutinous rice soft cakes for Qin Zhenzhen to bring home for Su Bin¡¯s brother and sister to enjoy. She believed it would help them grow closer.
In truth, whenever the original host visited her maternal grandmother¡¯s house, Ms. Yang always made delicious food for her.
In truth, whenever the original host visited her maternal grandmother¡¯s house, Ms. Yang always made delicious food for her.
But she couldn¡¯t bring herself to share them with anyone else.
She always kept them hidden for her own enjoyment.
Ms. Yang remained unaware of this.
In the afternoon, Qin Zhenzhen returned to Qian Vige.
From a distance, Su Ning spotted her and hurried over to greet her.
The young girl was clearly excited. ¡°Third Sister-inw, you¡¯re back!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback and casually asked, ¡°Anything happened at home?¡±
Su Ning nodded eagerly. ¡°Yes!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen paused. ¡°What happened? Is it good or bad?¡±
Su Ning tugged her into the house. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you once we¡¯re inside.¡±
They entered the room, and Su Ning proceeded to share the events that had unfolded.
After Qin Zhenzhen left her mother¡¯s home the previous day, their Second Brother returned from hunting in the mountains, bringing back a rooster.
Su Ning and her brother informed Second Brother about Ms. Lin¡¯s mistreatment of Su Cheng.
Enraged, he took his siblings to their uncle¡¯s house to confront the situation.
They demanded that Ms. Lin and Qian Erhu apologize to him in front of the entire vige.
Tensions escted, and the two families engaged in a heated argument.
If it hadn¡¯t been for someone summoning the vige chief, Second Brother and their uncle might havee to blows.
However, their uncle and aunt had already expressed their intention to sever ties with the family.
Furthermore, their uncle went as far as to dere that he would repay the 10 liang he owed to their uncle¡¯s family, or he would use the remaining fields to settle the debt.
When their parents passed away, they had borrowed 30 liang from their uncle¡¯s family, using the fields as coteral. However, since they were unable to repay the debt, their uncle ended up selling the fields.
Although they had sold thend for 100 liang, their uncle insisted that it was only 30 liang, which was the exact amount needed to clear the debt, leaving them with nothing more.
Earlier in the spring, when Fifth Brother fell severely ill, they had no money to afford a doctor. Desperate, they had to borrow 10 liang from their uncle¡¯s family to save Fifth Brother¡¯s life. Their uncle¡¯s family agreed to lend the money only when they used thend contract as coteral.
Yet, less than six monthster, their uncle demanded a repayment of 20 liang, iming that 10 liang was the interest, and they intended to use the remaining fields as further coteral.
The value of their remaining fields amounted to at least 60 liang, but thend contract was in the possession of the vige chief. If they failed to repay the money, their uncles would not hesitate to sell off thest of their fields.
Moreover, they would falsely state that they had sold thend for a mere 10 liang..
Chapter 44 - 44: Loan
Chapter 44: Loan
Trantor:?Henyee Trantions??Editor:?Henyee Trantions
¡°Second Brother became so enraged that he yelled at our uncle, dering that he would repay the money to him!¡±
¡°Then this morning, Second Brother left early, saying he was borrowing money from a friend. He hasn¡¯t returned yet.¡±
¡°This morning, Aunt and Cousin came to our house, demanding payment. We wanted to keep the fish for you to cook, but they took everything, iming it was a fraction of the interest owed.¡±
¡°Fifth Brother and I tried to stop them, but Fifth Brother was pushed to the ground and injured his knees.¡±
¡°I¡¯m so scared with no adults around. I¡¯m afraid Aunt will take away the 25 kilograms of rice you bought the next time shees.¡±
Su Ning burst into tears, looking utterly pitiful.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s anger ignited as well.
Ms. Lin and her family had gone too far!
And they were their own rtives¡ªuncles and aunts!
They were akin to bandits!
Qin Zhenzhen tried to console Su Ning. ¡°Don¡¯t cry. They can¡¯t take anything away from me!¡±
However, Su Ning continued sobbing. ¡°I¡¯m worried that if Second Brother can¡¯t gather the money, Uncle will forcefully sell our fields, and Second Brother will fight against them¡
¡°You¡¯re concerned that your Second Brother won¡¯t be able to overpower them.
But hasn¡¯t he learned martial arts before?¡±
¡°No, I¡¯m worried that Second Brother might harm them and end up facing legal consequences. I don¡¯t want him to be taken away by the authorities because of Uncle, which would doom him forever.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. She hadn¡¯t expected Su Ning to have such worries at such a young age. Even some adults might not possess the same level of foresight as her.
¡°Simr to the other day when you stopped your brother and my brother from fighting because you were concerned about hurting them, right?¡± Qin Zhenzhen developed a newfound admiration for Su Ning.
¡°So, you want me to help you?¡±
Su Ning nodded earnestly. ¡°You¡¯re the only one who can assist us at this moment.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen maintained herposure as she asked calmly, ¡°How do you want me to help?¡±
Could it be that Su Ning was interested in her dowry?
Did they want her to use her dowry to pay off the debt?
Unaware of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s detached demeanor, Su Ning exined her thoughts.
¡°I want you to help us negotiate with Uncle and his family to reduce the interest owed. You¡¯re not as impulsive as my Second Brother, and I believe you have the capability to handle my uncle and his family.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded coolly, ¡°And?¡±
Su Ning continued, ¡°Then your family can lend us the money to repay the debt. Don¡¯t worry, we won¡¯t borrow withoutpensation. We can offer you interest, and we¡¯ll provide thend contract as coteral to your family.¡±
¡°If we¡¯re unable to repay the loan in the future, the fields will belong to your family. This way, your family won¡¯t be at a disadvantage.¡±
That sounded more reasonable.
Qin Zhenzhen looked at Su Ning with genuine interest. ¡°You¡¯re just a young girl, and you don¡¯t have the authority to make such decisions. Your brothers will handle the problem, so why are you worried?¡±
Anxiously, Su Ning exined, ¡°No, this is the n Fifth Brother and I devised. My Second Brother won¡¯t be able to borrow any money, and my Third Brother is about to be a Cultivated Talent soon. We don¡¯t want to distract him, and my Fourth Brother won¡¯t be able to do much either.¡±
¡°Uncle has only given us three days, which is why I¡¯m begging you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen ced her hand on Su Ning¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, maybe your Second Brother can recover some money.¡±
¡°By that time, we can just ask the vige chief for justice.¡±
Su Ning was shocked. She had not expected that her Third Sister-inw would not be convinced.
Qin Zhenzhen opened the bag. ¡°I have brought glutinous rice and soft cakes home. They are still hot, sweet and fragrant. Ask your Fifth Brother to join us to eat them together..¡±
Chapter 45 - 45: Change of Mind
Chapter 45: Change of Mind
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Cheng was watering vegetables in the backyard when he heard themotion in the room, indicating Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s return.
Curious about how his sister and Third Sister-inw were faring, he entered the room.
¡°Third Sister-inw, you¡¯re back!¡±
Su Cheng¡¯s tone sounded slightly awkward, showing that he wasn¡¯t ustomed to interacting with Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen responded naturally, ¡°Yes, I just arrived home, and I brought some glutinous rice soft cakes. Would you like to have some?¡±
Su Cheng hesitated for a moment before epting one of the glutinous rice cakes.
The siblings exchanged a nce and headed to the backyard with their treats.
Whispering to Su Cheng, Su Ning said, ¡°Fifth Brother, I informed Third Sister-inw about our discussion.¡±
¡°Did she agree to help?¡±
Su Ning shook her head. ¡°She didn¡¯t give a definite answer.¡±
¡°She only mentioned that Second Brother might be able to recover some money. She even mentioned seeking justice from the vige chief.¡±
¡°But since the vige chief and our uncle are from the same family, they will likely be biased in their favor. Otherwise, we would have received at least one liang when the fields were soldst time.¡±
Su Cheng finished his glutinous rice cake in silence.
Then, he squatted down, covering his head with his hands, murmuring in distress. ¡°1 don¡¯t want to sell the fields anymore. These are the properties our parents left for us. I want to hold onto them. Without them, how will we sustain ourselves?¡±
¡°After we sell the fields, Uncle and the others will set their sights on our house.
If one of us falls ill, we won¡¯t be able to protect our home¡¡±
¡°If Third Brother can be a Cultivated Talent this year, and if he can be a Rmended Man next year! ¡±
In that way, nobody would dare to bully them anymore.
They would no longer have to endure such poverty.
Qin Zhenzhen, observing the interaction between the siblings from the window, overheard their conversation.
ording to the book, Su Bin was destined to be disqualified and unable to be a Cultivated Talent this year due to a setup.
As a result, his family encountered misfortune, and his brothers and sisters faced hardships.
These were the direct causes that led Su Bin to turn towards evil.
Su Cheng added, ¡°I have some savings, and with the half liang that Third Sister-inw gave me, I have a total of one liang. However, it¡¯S far from enough to repay our debt to Uncle¡¯s family.¡±
¡°If we had treated Third Sister-inw kindly from the beginning, and if Third Brother had treated her like any other spouse, she might have been willing to assist us.¡±
¡°Not necessarily. Didn¡¯t she express her desire to divorce Third Brother? I don¡¯t think she will help us.¡±
¡°We can harvest and sell the vegetables tomorrow, so we can earn some additional money.¡±
Su Ning furrowed her brow. ¡°But there are already many people selling bags of vegetables, and they can¡¯t fetch good prices. Besides, there isn¡¯t much demand.
What should we do?¡±
¡°But we have to sell them; otherwvise, they¡¯ll rot in the fields and go to waste.¡±
Su Cheng murmured as he went to fetch some water.
Qin Zhenzhen felt her heart soften. It pained her to witness this scene.
Su Ning and Su Cheng were incredibly understanding individuals.
They should not have been subjected to unfair treatment at such a young age.
She resolved to find a way to save them before they strayed further down the wrong path.
However, if she forcefully altered the book¡¯s plot, would it trigger a chain of unforeseen consequences?
Could it potentially lead to a bacsh against her?
Upon transmigrating into the book, Qin Zhenzhen had already altered the original plot, which would inevitably create a series of butterfly effects.
She would have to face the repercussions.
Considering this, Qin Zhenzhen had a change of heart.
She resolved to help them!
There was no need for her to borrow money from her maternal family. She still possessed over 10 liang worth of dowry, and she could assist the Su Ning siblings in earning additional ie, which should be sufficient to repay the debt.
As for Ms. Lin¡¯S demand to double the interest, 20 liang instead of 10 liang, that would depend on their ability to negotiate and secure a better oue..
Chapter 46 - 46: Dry Banana Leaves
Chapter 46: Dry Banana Leaves
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Knowing that they had to rise early the next day to take advantage of the market, Su Cheng and his sister began preparing the vegetables they nned to sell. They removed the outer leaves, thoroughly washed them, and ced them in a wicker basket.
Meanwhile, Qin Zhenzhen was already preparing to cook. Although the fish had been consumed, there remained a bowl of wild rooster.
Curious, Qin Zhenzhen asked Su Ning, ¡°You stewed roosters yesterday, so why do you still have some left?¡±
Weren¡¯t they craving meat?
A rooster wasn¡¯t veryrge, and a bowl of meat would be required.
Su Ning exined, ¡°We kept it for you since we knew you wereing home today.¡±
She added, ¡°Chicken is better than pork.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled gratefully. ¡°Thank you!¡±
Feeling the weight of Su Ning and her brother¡¯s concerns, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but engage in conversation.
¡°I imagine they won¡¯t sell for much, right?¡±
Su Ning nodded. ¡°Yes, primarily because they¡¯re inexpensive, and few people buy them. Additionally, many families in our vige alone cultivate vegetable bundles. There are at least four or five households nning to sell vegetable bundles tomorrow.¡±
¡°Including those from neighboring viges, there will be even more!¡±
¡°But Fifth Brother insisted that we must sell them, even if it¡¯s difficult, to prevent the fields from going to waste. We also desperately need the money.¡± Su Ning was testing Qin Zhenzhen to gauge her willingness to help.
Pretending not to notice, Qin Zhenzhen made a suggestion, ¡°What if we chop the vegetables and make them into vegetable pancakes to sell?¡±
Su Ning¡¯s eyes sparkled. ¡°Like the pancakes you made the day before yesterday?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Yes, exactly like that. I have a shop in town, and there¡¯s a cooking area behind the store that we can borrow.¡±
Datong Town was a bustling and sizable town.
It was situated within arge basin surrounded by mountains.
In addition to the prominent vige located outside the mountains, there were numerous small viges scattered throughout the surrounding hills.
The trading system in the countryside during ancient times revolved around taking advantage of market days.
Every three, six, and nine days of the month were designated as market days, meaning there would be one market every three days, with thest day being a fourth day.
During market days, the town woulde alive with bustling activity.
People from the mountains would gather their goods and head to town to sell them, while also purchasing essential items to bring back home.
The journey to town was often long, and they would typically set out before dawn. Then, they would have their midday meal at the town market.
Some more generous individuals would dine at restaurants, while those who were more frugal would either bring their own dried food or purchase affordable meals from food stalls to satiate their hunger.
When the adults returned from town, the children eagerly awaited them by the roadside. It was customary for adults to bring back snacks for the children, such as candies, pancakes, or steamed buns.
In ancient times, this act was referred to as an ¡°equal road.¡±
Essentially, it was a way for people to convey their love and care through small treats.
The egg and vegetable pancakes they were nning to make were inexpensive, filling, and served as perfect ¡°letter notes¡± for this asion.
Qin Zhenzhen possessed spiritual water, ensuring that her pancakes were exceptionally delicious.
If the price was set reasonably, they should be able to earn some money from selling the pancakes.
Su Ning had mixed emotions as she asked, ¡°Are you exerting yourself too much?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°With your help, it won¡¯t be too challenging.¡±
¡°It¡¯s a deal then. Tomorrow, we¡¯ll set up the stall and sell the egg and vegetable pancakes!¡±
¡°Okay!¡±
Su Ning pulled Su Cheng along to gather dried banana leaves.
During ancient times, there were no food-grade bags or affordable oil paper avable. However, dried banana leaves were a cost-effective and practical alternative. They were easy to obtain, durable, and perfect for wrapping the egg and vegetable pancakes.
If they purchased arge quantity, they could wrap the pancakes in big banana leaves and carry them in their bags. If they bought only a small portion, they could wrap it in a smaller banana leaf and enjoy it on the go, ensuring the pancakes wouldn¡¯t be too hot to handle..
Chapter 47 - 47: Something to Do
Chapter 47: Something to Do
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In their backyard, a multitude of banana trees flourished. With a sickle in hand, the brother and sister skillfully severed the withered banana leaves. Su Ning took charge of removing the leaves from the stems.
The siblings worked harmoniously, their efforts in sync.
In a hushed tone, Su Cheng asked his sister, ¡°Do you think we can make some money tomorrow?¡±
A glimmer of excitement danced in Su Ning¡¯s eyes. ¡°Absolutely! Remember how delicious those egg pancakes were? I can¡¯t get the taste out of my mind!¡±
¡°I¡¯m willing to bet that once someone takes a bite, they¡¯ll want a second, a third, and even a fourth piece!¡±
¡°But I worry that we won¡¯t have enough to sell,¡± Su Cheng confessed, his mouth watering at the memory of the previous day¡¯s egg pancakes.
¡°Don¡¯t fret, I¡¯ll lend a hand. We¡¯ll manage,¡± Su Ning assured him.
After a while, Su Cheng inquired, ¡°So, does this mean she agreed to help us reim the contract?¡±
Su Ning pondered for a moment. ¡°I¡¯m not certain yet, but let¡¯s set that aside for now. Let¡¯s focus on how much money we can make tomorrow.¡±
She had already calcted their potential earnings in her mind.
Fifth Brother¡¯s vegetables remained unsold; no one showed interest in buying them for 2 wen per 500 grams. They might have to lower the price to 1 wen per 500 grams.
However, if they took one bag of vegetables andbined it with 500 grams of flour, a few eggs, and somerd, they could fry dozens of vegetable pancakes.
They could easily sell each pancake for over 100 wen.
And the initial investment would only cost them 20 wen.
What a lucrative opportunity it turned out to be!
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s matter was resolved satisfactorily.
If they started early in the morning and had a sessful day of sales, they could acquire at least 10 kilograms of flour.
The profit margin would be around three liang.
In addition to their initial investment, they had an extra two liang.
Even more significant was the fact that they had discovered a path to financial stability for Su Ning and her brother.
Su Ning had exceptional culinary skills, and now that she had separated from Su Bin, they could set up a food stall every day, escaping their previously miserable existence.
But there was an underlying motive driving Su Ning as well.
She intended to sell various seasonings alongside their food.
The following morning, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning gathered the necessary items to disy on their stall.
Su Cheng had a backup n in mind.
If the vegetable pancakes didn¡¯t sell well, he would continue selling packets of vegetables. However, if the pancakes turned out to be popr, he would be there to assist them.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s family owned a pork store, which served as her own business establishment. Qin Dalong and Qin Erlong, upied with selling pork, were taken aback to see them.
¡°Zhenzhen, what are you doing? Are you selling vegetables for them?¡± Qin Dalong asked, surprised.
¡°The prices for vegetables are quite low nowadays, and they¡¯re being sold everywhere on the streets. You don¡¯t have to put yourself through this,¡± Qin Erlong added.
¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about money. I¡¯ll give you some pocket moneyter,¡± Qin Dalong assured her.
Qin Zhenzhen was deeply moved.
Her brothers treated her with such kindness. What was even more remarkable was that her two sisters-inw treated her well too. Even if she didn¡¯t contribute much at home, they never gave her a hard time.
Being the only girl in the family, she was cherished by everyone. The whole family believed that she was destined to lead her own family to prosperity.
Hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s brother¡¯s words, Su Ning and Su Cheng felt a bit embarrassed.
Qin Zhenzhen proceeded to share their n with her brothers. However, Qin Dalong was the first to object.
¡°No, that would be too exhausting for you! You shouldn¡¯t be exposing yourself like this, and the earnings wouldn¡¯t be substantial either.¡±
¡°Do you need money? If you do, just tell me. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll give you some pocket money,¡± he insisted.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not in need of money. I still have my dowry.¡±
¡°I just want to find something to do and earn money to prove that I¡¯m capable of anything..¡±
Chapter 48 - 48: Selling Watermelons
Chapter 48: Selling Watermelons
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Erlong also voiced his objections. ¡°Zhenzhen, please listen to me. You won¡¯t earn much money, and it¡¯s not worth the trouble.¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen remained firm, determined to persuade her brother to agree.
¡°Are you afraid I¡¯ll create a mess in the kitchen?¡± she quipped.
Su Ning and Su Cheng telt disappointed, but eventually Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s elder brother and second brother relented.
¡°Fine, you can give it a try!¡±
¡°Sometimes, you have to learn from your mistakes!¡±
¡°Just make sure you don¡¯t start a fire. Your sister-inws will being to prepare breakfastter.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry, brother, there won¡¯t be any fire!¡± Qin Zhenzhen assured him, beaming with excitement.
She cheerfully took the necessary items to the back of the store.
She even promised her brothers, ¡°You can rely on me for breakfast. Eggs and pancakes will suffice!¡±
The cooking area at the back of the store resembled a typical kitchen found in rural households, equipped with all the essentials.
The water tank was full, and there was an ample supply ofrd.
An abundance of firewood awaited their use for the day.
Qin Zhenzhen turned to Su Ning and said, ¡°I¡¯m going to buy flour and eggs. Meanwhile, you can prepare the vegetables and garlic sprouts. I¡¯ll be back shortly.¡±
¡°Okay!¡± Su Ning and Su Cheng replied enthusiastically.
Qin Zhenzhen was familiar with the ces to purchase flour and eggs, so she swiftly procured the necessary ingredients and returned home.
Of course, she started with a cautious amount, not daring to buy too much initially.
They purchased 1.5 kilograms of flour and 20 eggs.
Since it was still early and there weren¡¯t many people around, Qin Zhenzhen decided to make a few more batches of pancakes.
The three of them worked together, filling the kitchen with the enticing aroma of eggs and pancakes.
Qin Zhenzhen arranged a te with freshly cooked pancakes and said to Su Ning and her brother, ¡°I¡¯ll take these to my brother, and you should enjoy them while they¡¯re still warm.¡±
¡°But make sure to keep an eye on the pancakes in the pot and remember to flip them,¡± she added.
¡°Sure, go and help your brother!¡± Su Ning replied, not in a hurry to eat the pancakes herself. Instead, she diligently flipped the pancakes in the pot.
While she considered herself fast, she couldn¡¯t help but acknowledge that her Third Sister-inw was even better at pancake flipping.
Su Cheng, on the other hand, ate a pancake with one hand while tending to the fire with the other.
Observing his sister busy with her tasks, he held a pancake up to her mouth and said, ¡°Take a bite. It tastes just as good as the ones from the day before yesterday.¡±
He had been concerned that the pancakes might taste different, but now he felt reassured and filled with h0De.
If the pancakes proved to be popr and they could sell them every day, they would soon earn enough money to repay their uncle¡¯s family. Although their uncle¡¯s family had given them a three-day grace period, they could still borrow some money from them. After all, Third Sister-inw¡¯s brother would likely be willing to lend them the funds.
Su Ning took a bite of the pancake her brother offered, and as she savored it, she wore a contented expression. ¡°It¡¯s delicious!¡±
¡°I¡¯m going to learn how to season it myself!¡± she dered.
Although the ingredients were prepared by Third Sister-inw, the vor of the pancakes remained consistent and delightful.
That particr skill involved the art of ingredient blending.
However, unbeknownst to Su Ning, Qin Zhenzhen had a secret ingredient of her own¡ªa touch of spiritual water.
Qin Zhenzhen possessed a remarkable talent for crafting ingredients.
Carrying the steaming hot pancakes, Qin Zhenzhen arrived at the pork store.
¡°Elder Brother, Second Brother,e and taste the pancakes I¡¯ve made. I guarantee you¡¯ll be full of praises,¡± she beckoned.
Qin Dalong chuckled. ¡°Zhenzhen, since when did you be such a bragger?¡±
Qin Erlong joined in theughter. ¡°You¡¯re justplimenting yourself!¡±
However, as the tempting scent of egg and pancakes wafted through the air, they couldn¡¯t resist grabbing a pancake and taking a bite.
Their expressions grew even more delighted than when they had finished the barley crucian carp soup..
Chapter 49 - 49: Not Helper
Chapter 49: Not Helper
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Dalong couldn¡¯t believe it and proceeded to eat another piece.
Although he had enjoyed the delicious fish soup the day before and knew that Qin Zhenzhen had a talent for cooking, the soup contained meat, while the pancakes were packed with vegetables. The fact that vegetarian pancakes could taste so incredible was beyond belief.
¡°Zhenzhen, did you make these pancakes yourself, or did your sister-inw help?¡± Qin Dalong inquired.
Qin Zhenzhen pouted yfully. ¡°I made them all by myself! But Su Ning¡¯s taste is just as good as mine!¡±
Qin Erlong also took a second bite, unable to contain his praise. ¡°They¡¯re incredibly delicious! I almost bit my tongue earlier!¡±
An auntie who hade to purchase pork burst intoughter, unable to stand straight.
¡°You two brothers, if you want topliment your sister, there¡¯s no need to be so exaggerated. I almost choked on myughter when I first heard it. Are you trying to make meugh?¡± she eximed.
Qin Dalong replied earnestly, ¡°Third Auntie, we¡¯re not exaggerating. The pancakes truly are this tasty. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can give them a try!¡± With that, he handed her a piece of pancake.
Third Auntie initially hesitated, not wanting to ept the pancake. However, the irresistible fragrance enticed her taste buds. ¡°How can I ept this? It¡¯s as if I¡¯m purposely saying this just to get a free one.¡±
Qin Dalongughed. ¡°To be honest, my sister fried these and put them up for sale. If you find them delicious, you can help spread the word. But if you don¡¯t like them, that¡¯s fine too.¡¯
Third Auntie lived in town and had a wide circle of acquaintances. If she spread the word, more people woulde to buy Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s pancakes.
¡°If this is your first attempt, then I¡¯ll give them a try,¡± Third Auntie agreed.
Upon hearing Qin Dalong¡¯s words, she epted the pancake and began to eat.
A look of astonishment adorned Third Auntie¡¯s face. She hadn¡¯t expected much from the pancake, but she couldn¡¯t deny its incredible taste.
¡°What are the ingredients?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shared, ¡°It¡¯s a mixture of eggs, flour, vegetables, garlic sprouts, salt, and water.¡±
¡°That¡¯s impossible!¡± Third Auntie eximed, finding it hard to believe.
¡°How can such simple ingredients create such delicious pancakes? They¡¯re even better than meat pancakes!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°So, Third Auntie, you¡¯re saying the pancakes are genuinely tasty?¡±
Third Auntie took another bite and nodded. ¡°They¡¯re incredibly delicious! I¡¯ve never had pancakes this good before. How much does one pancake cost?¡± Qin Zhenzhen responded promptly, ¡°They¡¯re not expensive, just 2 wen each.¡±
¡°Do you have any avable now? Give me 20 pieces. I want to share them with my husband, children, well, the entire family.¡±
Being well-off, a few dozen wen wouldn¡¯t break the bank.
Qin Zhenzhen was pleasantly surprised. ¡°Certainly, please wait a moment. I¡¯ll get them for you right away!¡±
Haha, the first customer was a significant deal!
What a fantastic start!
Those who didn¡¯t know might assume that Third Auntie was being paid to promote the pancakes.
Qin Zhenzhen hurried to the back of the store and shared the exciting news with Su Ning and her brother.
There were a man and a woman buying pork, and they nced at Third Auntie in a peculiar manner, thinking that she was intentionally acting as a promoter.
Being straightforward, Third Auntie noticed their misunderstanding and asked loudly, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m being paid to advertise?¡±
Though they disagreed with the insinuation, their expressions betrayed a hint of doubt.
Third Auntie grew anxious and eximed, ¡°Qin Dalong, stop eating and give them thest piece. Charge them 2 wen. I¡¯ll show them that I¡¯m not being paid to do this!¡±
Qin Dalong chuckled and handed the final pancake to the two individuals..
Chapter 50 - 50: Too Busy
Chapter 50: Too Busy
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The man and woman felt a tad embarrassed, but the surrounding crowd cheered them on, urging them to give the pancakes a try.
Eager to taste the pancakes, they quickly finished their portions and reached for their wallets.
¡°We¡¯ll take 10 more pancakes! They¡¯re incredibly delicious!¡±
They then turned to the people nearby and dered, ¡°We¡¯re not hired promoters! If you don¡¯t believe us, try them for yourself!¡±
¡°Well, then I¡¯ll buy some too.¡±
Qin Dalong set aside the pork and hurried to the back of the store.
¡°Zhenzhen, how many are ready? Someone wants to purchase 30 pancakes!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had just shared the news of selling 20 pancakes with Su Ning and her brother, and they were all filled with excitement.
Especially Su Ning, who swiftly helped Qin Zhenzhen wrap up the requested 20 pancakes.
Upon hearing her elder brother¡¯s words, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s joy overflowed. She even hummed a tune as she diligently wrapped each pancake.
¡°Elder Brother, please assist us by taking them out and handling the money.
We¡¯re a bit busy at the moment!¡±
They hadn¡¯t anticipated such a high demand for the pancakes, so they continued making more while it was still early.
Qin Dalong beamed with happiness. ¡°Sure, sure! Just focus on what you need to do, and I¡¯ll help with the sales once they¡¯re ready.¡±
With that, he retrieved the pancakes, and Qin Zhenzhen and the others resumed their work.
This particr type of pancake was rtively thin. It required flipping twice at the bottom of the pot and sticking to the pot to ensure quick cooking.
Soon, Qin Dalong reentered the scene.
¡°Zhenzhen, you¡¯ve sold them all!¡±
¡°Elder Brother has a suggestion. Add some pork to your pancakes, and they¡¯ll undoubtedly taste even better.¡±
¡°Two wen for eggs, three wen for pork.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was busy making pancakes, Su Cheng tended to the fire, and Su Ning diligently chopped vegetables into shreds.
¡°That sounds good, but we¡¯re currently swamped with work.¡±
¡°If we add pork, it needs to be minced. Additionally, cooking the pancake with pork requires a longer frying time.¡±
Qin Dalong chuckled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, your two sister-inws will be here soon. They always help prepare breakfast for us.¡±
¡°We can ask them to assist you, and we can even set up another stove. We have two pots here anyway.¡±
¡°Alternatively, we can borrow another pot from the neighboring store.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen alsoughed. ¡°Thank you, Elder Brother!¡±
Su Cheng whispered to his sister, ¡°But will we run out of food this way?¡±
Su Ning calmly smiled at him. ¡°We can buy more ingredients. They¡¯re not expensive, after all.¡±
Su Cheng smiled in agreement. ¡°Yeah, I was being silly!¡±
Qin Dalong stood there dumbfounded, observing Qin Zhenzhen diligently making pancakes.
So, this was what his sister looked like when she was focused on work.
They say that hardworking women are the most beautiful. He truly believed his sister looked stunning in that moment.
Noticing Qin Dalong watching her work, Qin Zhenzhen reminded him, ¡°Elder Brother, go and sell the pork. Second Brother can¡¯t handle it alone.¡±
¡°You said you were selling pancakes for us, right?¡±
¡°Yes, yes, I will go out now.¡±
Qin Dalong swiftly relocated a low table to the side of the pork store.
The pancakes made by Qin Zhenzhen and the others were ced in arge bowl, and the torn dried banana leaves wereid out.
Qin Dalong began to call out, ¡°Come and buy the pancakes! They¡¯re delicious and affordable, just 2 wen each. Take as many as you want!¡±
Since they had raw pork in their hands, it was best not to handle the pancakes directly.
At that moment, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s two sister-inws arrived.
Both of them were taken aback to see Qin Zhenzhen selling pancakes..
Chapter 51 - 51: A Good Wife
Chapter 51: A Good Wife
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s two sister-inws¡¯ eyes widened in delight after tasting the pancakes.
¡°These are so delicious!¡±
¡°Let¡¯s go inside and see how she made them!¡±
Observing the two sister-inws entering to offer their assistance, Qin
Zhenzhen greeted them with a smile and said, ¡°Today, I¡¯ll treat you both.¡± The elder sister-inw and the second sister-inw chuckled. ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to treat us. Just teach us how to make these pancakes.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen agreed, ¡°No problem, I¡¯ll teach you.¡±
She had already devised a n. She would create a unique seasoning blend and incorporate the essence of spiritual water.
Rather than selling snacks, she intended to market her seasonings.
Before venturing into selling seasonings, however, they needed to establish a reputation.
With the help of the two sister-inws, the process became twice as efficient as before.
Qin Zhenzhen took charge of mixing all the ingredients together, adding a touch of spiritual water.
In the meantime, she also assisted Su Cheng in selling the pancakes.
The town was already bustling with activity.
The demand for pork was increasing, keeping her two brothers upied with sales, leaving little time for them to assist Su Cheng.
Qin Zhenzhen portioned the pancakes into bite-sized pieces for customers to sample.
This approach yielded the quickest results. Almost everyone who tasted them wanted to buy more.
Praise for her pancakes spread rapidly, and satisfied customers even began promoting her product for free. Word of mouth spread like wildfire, attracting a growing number of buyers.
They sold as many pancakes as they possibly could.
When the vigers from Qian Vige caught wind of the delicious pancakes, they flocked to have a taste, eagerly offering money to purchase them.
Curiosity piqued, they couldn¡¯t help but inquire of Su Cheng, ¡°Who made these delightful pancakes?¡±
With pride, Su Cheng replied, ¡°It was my Third Sister-inw! She, along with my sister and her two sister-inws, made them in the kitchen!¡±
Some gossipmongers, unable to resist their curiosity, ventured inside to take a peek. Inside, they saw the four individuals bustling about, engaged in lively conversation andughter.
The once-rumoredzy and chubby girl diligently flipped the pancakes, her head adorned with a bandana concealing a wound she had suffered earlier.
The vigers couldn¡¯t help but discuss Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s pancake-making skills.
¡°I can¡¯t believe this chubby girl is so talented!¡±
¡°Look at the smiles on the faces of the Su siblings. They¡¯repletely different when they¡¯re with their Third Sister-inw.¡±
¡°Of course! Third Sister-inw, you¡¯re hardworking, capable, and generous. Who wouldn¡¯t like you?¡±
Many witnessed Qin Zhenzhen carrying a hefty 25 kg bag of rice home that day.
¡°Now that¡¯s what you call changing people¡¯s perceptions.¡±
¡°Before, everyone said the chubby girl wasn¡¯t good enough for Su Bin. But in my opinion, Su Bin has found a treasure without spending a single coin. He¡¯s gotten himself such an incredible wife for free.¡±
Unbeknownst to Qin Zhenzhen, she had be a respected daughter-inw figure in the eyes of the vigers.
She had already asked Su Cheng to buy flour twice, and she had gone out to purchase cabbage as well.
After lunch, the crowd gradually dispersed, heading home.
Qin Dalong¡¯s pork was nearly sold out, except for a few pork bones andrd.
Qin Sanlong, who had been keeping watch at the neighboring pork stall, approached with the remaining pieces of meat.
Aware that Qin Zhenzhen was selling pancakes, Qin Sanlong had even indulged in her pancakes for breakfast.
The three brothers assembled and eagerly awaited the lunch prepared by their elder sister-inw and second sister-inw.
However, they found themselves surprisingly not hungry, having sumbed to the irresistible temptation of devouring numerous pancakes..
Chapter 52 - 52: Profit
Chapter 52: Profit
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Dalong and the others reserved a sizable portion of pork and pig offal that remained unsold.
Since the pork hadn¡¯tpletely sold out, they nned to continue selling it in the afternoon. Typically, they would have lunch at the stall.
However, as they were going to fry pancakes, lunchtime was postponed. Despite the dy, they found themselves not yet hungry.
Qin Zhenzhen finished thest few slices of pancakes, stretched her body, and let out augh. ¡°We¡¯re finished with work! We¡¯ve conquered the whole day!¡±
They had used a total of 20 kg of flour.
There were two varieties of pancakes avable: egg and meat.
They had generated a turnover of almost 10 liang!
The prices in this era were nearly on par with modern times.
One liang could buy 50 kg of rice, equivalent to approximately 300 yuan in present times.
Ten liang meant 3,000 yuan.
The costs came to about one liang.
The profits were substantial, but the endeavor was undeniably exhausting.
The five of them had been incredibly busy.
As they counted the money, Su Ning and Su Cheng couldn¡¯t conceal their happiness.
They hadn¡¯t determined how to divide the money yet, but it was certain they would receive more than from selling vegetables.
Third Sister-inw might even use the money to help them pay off their debt.
If Third Sister-inw truly intended to assist with the debt, they would dly entrust the contract to her.
The siblings grew even happier at the prospect.
While they counted the money, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s elder sister-inw and second sister-inw had already prepared lunch. Three dishes and a soup were steaming hot, with a generous amount of meat.
The spread included stir-fried cucumbers with meat slices, stir-fried pig intestines with pickled vegetables, chopped green onion meat slice soup, and a te of steamed meat pie with preserved vegetables.
Su Ning and her brother, who hadn¡¯t seen pork in a long time, couldn¡¯t help but salivate. They thought to themselves, ¡°No wonder Third Sister-inw is so plump; her cooking is absolutely delicious!¡±
Everyone acknowledged that Third Sister-inw married their third brother at a prominent position, not a lowly one.
Indeed, Third Sister-inw had undergone a remarkable transformation.
Before dinner, Qin Zhenzhen handed over the money to her two sister-inws.
¡°Here is your sry, 5 liang each, and we¡¯ll take into ount the cost ofrd and firewood.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s elder sister-inw refused to ept it.
¡°You¡¯re working for your sister-inw, and yet you have to pay? People willugh at us!¡±
Qin Dalong spoke generously, ¡°Zhenzhen, keep the money for now. They don¡¯tck pocket money. However, I¡¯ve heard that you¡¯ve been eating porridge every day, so you can use this money to buy some rice for home.¡±
Previously, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sister had never contributed any dowry to support the Su Family. She believed that the Su Family were ungrateful and incapable of being properly raised. It was like feeding meat buns to a dog¡ªno matter how much she offered, she wouldn¡¯t receive anything in return. It seemed like a waste of her kindness.
Qin Dalong agreed with his sister¡¯s sentiment.
However, Su Ning and her brother seemed to be appreciative individuals. Moreover, the Su Family had collectively earned the money.
He hoped his sister would stop being so stingy. If she could prevent the Su Family from going hungry, she should also prevent them from starving.
Qin Dalong and his brothers had been unjustlybeled as bad people by the original author, but in reality, they were straightforward and generous individuals.
After all, the Su Family was their sister¡¯s family.
Su Ning couldn¡¯t help but speak up on behalf of Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Third Sister-inw already bought 25 kg of rice yesterday. She said we should have proper meals with rice.¡±
Qin Dalong smacked his forehead. ¡°Look at my memory. I heard about it yesterday, but it slipped my mind.¡±
In truth, he hadn¡¯t actually forgotten. He had suspected that Qin Zhenzhen had bought the rice and hidden it away, intending to keep it for herself.
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t want to dwell on the matter too much. She insisted onpensating her two sister-inws.
Then she addressed everyone, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s eat; we¡¯re all getting hungry..¡±
Chapter 53 - 53: Evil People
Chapter 53: Evil People
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After a satisfying lunch, the sun began its descent, signaling the approaching end of the day.
Su Ning and her brother started to pack up, ready to head home.
Qin Dalong pulled out a piece of meat for Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°I saved this for you.
You¡¯ve worked so hard for so long. You deserve a reward.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t refuse his gesture but replied, ¡°Thank you, Elder Brother. However, you should weigh it first, and I¡¯ll pay you ording to the market price. ¡±
Qin Dalong chuckled. ¡°Great! My sister is so capable that I don¡¯t have to worry about collecting payment!¡±
Whenever Qin Zhenzhen brought meat back to the Su Family, she never gave them any money.
Qin Dalong and his brothers weren¡¯t stingy, but they appreciated their sister¡¯s initiative to offer money. It showed that she had be responsible.
Qin Zhenzhen pointed at the bones and added, ¡°Please give me 500 grams of these as well. It¡¯s hot in autumn, and they can be used to make turnip soup.¡±
She had heard that in ancient times, no one wanted pork bones. They were considered undesirable.
Poor families would only consume meat asionally, and when they did, they preferred cuts that were fatty and lean.
Who would spend money on bones like these?
Moreover, people in ancient times didn¡¯t know how to make soup with pork bones.
As a result, no one cared about pork bones.
The price of bones gradually dropped, almost to the point of being given away for free.
Qin Dalong tied two pork ribs together with straws.
¡°The bones don¡¯t count as money. If you like them, you cane and get them every day. Consider it a small bonus.¡±
¡°They¡¯re not worth anything anyway,¡± Qin Dalong remarked nonchntly. asionally, when no one wanted them, they would toss the bones for the dogs to consume.
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t insist on paying but simply chuckled. ¡°Come to the Su Family this afternoon and try my turnip soup. It¡¯ll make you realize that bones are not worthless.¡±
They used pig fan bones to make radish soup, which turned out to be exceptionally vorful. If they added a few drops of spiritual water, they would im it was so delicious that it made their tongues dance with joy.
Qin Erlongughed. ¡°If you¡¯re making radish soup, we¡¯ll definitely drop by.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°The turnip soup is just a bonus. Actually, I need your help with something.¡±
Su Ning¡¯s eyes sparkled. She tugged at Su Cheng¡¯s clothes and whispered,
¡°Third Sister-inw is definitely going to help us¡¡±
As expected, Qin Zhenzhen recounted the instances of Ms. Lin and her family mistreating the Su Family.
The Qin brothers were filled with anger upon hearing this. ¡°How outrageous! How can there be such wicked people in this world!¡± It was even worse than forcing Su Bin to marry their sister! ¡°Borrowing 10 liang and returning 20 liang? Are they trying to rob us?¡±
¡°Uncle! Rtives like him should be disowned by the family!¡±
How dare they steal the Su Family¡¯snd? In essence, they were stealing their sister¡¯snd!
They couldn¡¯t let this slide.
¡°Zhenzhen, don¡¯t worry. Leave this to me!¡±
Qin Erlong was a hotheaded man, ready to apany Qin Zhenzhen to Qian Vige right away.
However, Qin Sanlong intervened. ¡°Second Brother, we¡¯re covered in filth and smell like pork. Let¡¯s go home, wash ourselves, and change into clean clothes so we won¡¯t embarrass Zhenzhen.¡±
He added, ¡°Also, we should gather all four brothers to apany us. We can even bring our fourth brother along to make a stronger impression.¡±
¡°The Su Family still owes them 10 liang, correct? We need to prepare ourselves and retrieve the contract,¡± Qin Erlong asserted.
Qin Zhenzhen replied confidently, ¡°I have the money. My dowries and the proceeds from selling the pancakes are sufficient to repay them.¡±
The three brothers turned their attention towards Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Using your dowries? Are you truly willing to do that?¡±
She hadn¡¯t even used any of it to purchase rice, and now she was willing to offer everything?
Chapter 54 - 54: Su Bin’s Father
Chapter 54: Su Bin¡¯s Father
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Dalong was once again taken aback. ¡°You¡¯re willing to use your dowries to pay off their debt?¡±
It was unlike their sister to make such a decision.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded firmly. ¡°They said I can keep the contract.¡± With that assurance, the Qin brothers felt a sense of relief.
Qin Zhenzhen, Su Cheng, and Su Ning headed home ahead of time.
Once they were back, Qin Zhenzhen pointed at the weighty money bag and said to Su Cheng and Su Ning, ¡°Organize the money, and when my brother arrives, he will settle the debt.¡±
¡°Okay!¡±
Su Cheng and Su Ning eagerly began counting the money.
Most of their earnings from selling the pancakes were in the form of copper coins.
Each copper coin was worth one wen, and 1,000 wen equaled one liang.
They nned to string the coins together to facilitate counting.
Meanwhile, Qin Zhenzhen went to fetch the pork bones.
She quickly nched them in boiling water before simmering them in a pot.
Adding a few slices of ginger to the bone broth, Qin Zhenzhen then proceeded to the backyard to pick the turnips.
The backyard spanned about 400 to 500 square meters. Apart from some fruit trees, the space was predominantly used for growing vegetables.
It was evident that the vegetable fields had been repurposed from the flowerbeds, as traces of stone foundations remained. Along the wall, there were several beautiful roses and Chinese roses.
ording to the book, Su Ting, Su Bin¡¯s father, was not an ordinary person.
He had once been the heir of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion in the capital. However, he began to suspect that his mother¡¯s death was rted to his father¡¯s favorite concubine, prompting him tounch an investigation.
However, when Su Ting presented the evidence to his father, his father, blinded by his favoritism towards the concubine, refused to believe him.
To make matters worse, Su Ting¡¯s maternal family chose to suppress their anger due to the Marquis¡¯ family¡¯s influence and power.
At the age of 16, Su Ting was in the prime of his youth. Fueled by anger, he made a drastic decision.
He publicly announced that he and his father were no longer father and son, effectively severing ties with the Su Family.
He resolved to embark on a solitary journey, intending to travel the world alone.
¡®ITO yearster, ne arrived at (n Family Vige and encountered a girl wno captured his heart. This encounter led him to abandon his ns of wandering and instead decided to marry and settle down in Qian Family Vige, where he started a family.
Using the money they brought with them, they purchased fields in Qian Family Vige, built a spacious house, and acquired stores in town.
They were living afortable life.
Initially, Su Ting harbored ambitious dreams. He aspired to establish his own sect through his own efforts and nurture exceptional children. It would be even more satisfying if he could attain an official position in the court and defy the Marquis¡¯ Mansion.
However, reality proved to be cruel. As more children were born, he found himself selling stores and fields one by one to sustain their family¡¯s livelihood. Furthermore, except for Su Bin, the other children struggled academically.
Su Ting could only pin all his hopes on Su Bin.
Yet, he remained firm in his resolve. He did not disclose his true identity to his family, informing the children that all their rtives in the capital had passed away, and their other distant rtives had distanced themselves from them
Su Ting contemted that if Su Bin achieved sess, he would eventually reveal the truth to his family. However, if even Su Bin couldn¡¯t aplish it, he would never disclose the truth.
However, he had never anticipated that his father¡¯s favored concubine would take malicious action against them.
It turned out that three years after his mother¡¯s passing, his father made the concubine his official wife.
As the official wife, she naturally desired more influence and control.
But her own son couldn¡¯t inherit the title of heir.
Feeling remorseful because of his ipetent sons, Su Ting¡¯s father, driven by guilt, dispatched individuals to search for Su Ting far and wide.
When his wife discovered this, she grew anxious and sent her own men to search for him as well..
Chapter 55 - 55: I Want to Learn
Chapter 55: I Want to Learn
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
However, the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion dispatched her men to the Su Family ahead of others, all because of a single jade pendant.
Unfortunately, by the time they arrived, Su Ting and his wife had already met with a tragic ident and passed away.
With Su Ting deceased, and his children raised in the countryside posing no threat to their position, the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion believed the matter was resolved.
However, she soon learned that Su Bin bore a striking resemnce to the Marquis and had gained recognition among schrs in the college. It was highly likely that he would make a name for himself through the imperial examination.
Fearful of the potential threat that Su Bin¡¯s return to the capital and reunion with the Marquis could pose to her own children, the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion devised a n.
She didn¡¯t want Su Bin and his family to enter the capital, as it could jeopardize her children¡¯s inheritance of the mansion¡¯s assets.
Yet, the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion didn¡¯t dare to eliminate Su Bin¡¯s family directly.
Instead, she first sought to ruin Su Bin¡¯s path to the imperial examination.
Encouraging the Qin Family to force her daughter to marry Su Bin, she aimed to create conflict between Su Bin and the Qin Family, thereby obstructing Su Bin¡¯s journey to the imperial examination.
However, to her surprise, Su Bin endured the humiliation and allowed the chubby girl into the family, helping her be a Cultivated Talent.
Even after the chubby girl¡¯s passing, the subsequent changes within the household failed to deter Su Bin¡¯s determination to be a Cultivated Talent.
Faced with Su Bin¡¯s unyielding perseverance, the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion waspelled to devise a new n.
Thus, one day before the Cultivated Talent examination, she orchestrated a scheme to frame Su Bin and disqualify him from the examination.
Subjected to numerous setups, Su Bin gradually realized that someone was plotting against him.
However, after one year, he finally managed to gather evidence exposing those who had framed him. As a result, he was reinstated and allowed to participate in the following year¡¯s examination.
Contemting Su Bin¡¯s twisted destiny, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of sympathy.
Su Bin possessed exceptional intelligence, and it seemed he was destined to survive against all odds.
He was manipted all the way to the capital, where he ultimately rose to the position of the Primus.
Discovering the truth about his lineage and the plot orchestrated by the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion, Su Bin found himself in a dire situation. His sister, niece, and fifth brother had all perished, while his fourth brother had be morally corrupt and his second brother had turned to banditry.
Refusing to reim his title as the Young Master of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion and rejecting any reunion with the Marquis, Su Bin even pushed the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion and her children onto a path of no return, deeply infuriating the Marquis.
From that point onward, Su Bin fully embraced his darker side, bing the ruthless viin depicted in the book.
He held onto every grudge from those who had mistreated him in the past and showed no mercy to those who disrespected him in the future.
All these choices were born out of the misfortunes he had endured.
Now that Qin Zhenzhen had transmigrated into this world and possessed knowledge of the plot, she was determined to assist Su Bin in avoiding those hardships.
She viewed this as a bargaining chip for the divorce.
Walking around in the backyard, Qin Zhenzhen observed the diverse variety of crops in the fields.
Near the wall, there was a small pool that may have once been used for ornamental goldfish but was now repurposed to water the vegetables.
However, for the sake of Su Cheng and Su Ning, she had to undertake such arduous farm work at such a young age. She was almost solely responsible for their well-being.
Qin Zhenzhen plucked the turnips from the ground, washed them in the sink, and carried them home. Once there, she peeled and sliced the turnips before adding them to the boiling bone soup.
Just as she was engrossed in her cooking, Su Ning entered the kitchen. ¡°Third Sister-inw, Fifth Brother is stringing the money together. Let me assist you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°So, you want to learn how I make the bone soup, hm?¡±
Caught in the act, Su Ning confessed honestly, ¡°Yes, Third Sister-inw, I want to learn how to cook.¡±
If she could acquire this skill, she could prepare meals for her brothers, and perhaps even set up a snack stall to earn money like they did today.
No longer would they have to rely on porridge as their main sustenance, and her Third Brother wouldn¡¯t have to toil so hard to earn a living..
Chapter 56 - 56: Seasonings
Chapter 56: Seasonings
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen whispered to Su Ning, her voice barely audible. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you a secret. The reason the food tastes so amazing is because of a special seasoning I add to it!¡±
¡°Oh, really?¡± Su Ning eximed, her eyes widening in realization.
It had always puzzled her how the pancakes made by her, her sister-inws, and Qin Zhenzhen all turned out equally delicious. She had suspected that Qin Zhenzhen had added something special to enhance the vor, and now her suspicions were confirmed.
Unable to contain her curiosity, Su Ning eagerly asked, ¡°Third Sister-inw, can you teach me how to make this seasoning?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head regretfully. ¡°This seasoning was taught to me by an expert, and I promised her not to divulge the recipe.¡±
Disappointed yet understanding, Su Ning replied, ¡°I see. Thank you, Third Sister-inw.¡±
Although she felt a twinge of regret, Su Ning respected Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s decision to keep the secret.
Having ess to such seasoning would be wonderful.
¡°Third Sister-inw, do you have enough of the seasoning?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen answered solemnly, ¡°I¡¯ve used up all the seasoning I had prepared.¡±
¡°But don¡¯t worry, tomorrow I¡¯m nning to venture into the nearby mountains to gather the necessary ingredients. They should be avable there.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words sounded sincere and genuine.
Excited by the prospect, Su Ning offered, ¡°I¡¯ll apany you. I¡¯m quite familiar with the mountains around here.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled, her eyes gleaming with mischief. ¡°Sure, I also have knowledge of medicinal herbs. I can teach you how to harvest them and sell them to the pharmacies in town.¡±
¡°It¡¯s much easier to make money that way than by selling vegetables.¡±
Su Ning looked puzzled and asked, ¡°But isn¡¯t selling pancakes an easy way to earn money?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen exined patiently, ¡°Selling pancakes isbor-intensive and exhausting. Besides, we don¡¯t have our own permanent store.¡±
She could borrow a store once or twice, but it wouldn¡¯t be a sustainable solution.
Consideringbor and store fees, their profit margin would be limited.
Qin Zhenzhen shared her n. ¡°The main reason I wanted to sell pancakes was to introduce and sell the seasonings.¡±
Understanding dawned on Su Ning. ¡°Ah, I see what you mean, Third
Sister-inw!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen spoke confidently, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, selling seasonings is much more profitable than selling pancakes. And it¡¯s not as difficult as it seems.¡±
If she pursued selling seasonings, she wouldn¡¯t have to rely solely on pancakes.
The four brothers of the Qin Family arrived in the Qian Vige, dressed neatly and catching the attention of the vigers.
Whispers and murmurs filled the air.
¡°Look, it¡¯s Su Bin¡¯s wife¡¯s brothers again!¡±
¡°Why are they here this time, after insisting on Su Bin marrying the chubby girl?¡±
¡°I bet they¡¯re here because Uncle Su Bin wants to sell their fields!¡±
¡°Yes, that must be it. Last time, they sold their fields because of the mistreatment they faced. But now these four formidable individuals havee to their aid. It¡¯s going to be quite a spectacle!¡±
Word of the Qin brothers¡¯ arrival reached the ears of Ms. Lin¡¯s family, prompting them to gather and discuss potential solutions.
Ms. Lin trembled with fear. ¡°What do we do? Those four intimidating figures are not to be taken lightly!¡±
Were they expected to hand over the fields they were about to obtain?
Qian Dashan, maintaining a sense ofposure, reassured them. ¡°What¡¯s there to fear? They have to repay their debt or provide coteral. That¡¯s only fair!¡±
¡°I don¡¯t believe the Qin Family will actually help them pay off the debt!¡±
¡°If they doe to repay us, we¡¯ll insist it¡¯s 20 liang, iming it was a verbal agreement.¡±
¡°The contract is with the vige chief, who happens to be our ally.. We just need to offer him some benefits, and he¡¯ll undoubtedly side with us!¡±
Chapter 57 - 57: 20 Liang
Chapter 57: 20 Liang
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Upon the arrival of the four Qin brothers at the Su Family, Qin Zhenzhen instructed Su Cheng and his sister to fetch the vige chief, Qian Youcai.
Su Ning and her brother exined that theirnd contract was kept at the vige chief¡¯s residence, as he had served as the guarantor when their uncle lent them money.
As the sun began to set, the vigers returning home from the fields indicated that it was an opportune time to find the vige chief at home.
However, Su Cheng and his sister returned empty-handed, unable to secure the vige chief¡¯s presence.
Qin Zhenzhen pondered for a moment and came to a realization.
The vige chief and Su Bin¡¯s uncle¡¯s family belonged to the same sect. When Su Bin¡¯s parents passed away, these individuals with the Qian surname joined forces to bully them.
If even their own uncles were so terrible, it was no wonder others harbored jealousy towards Su Bin¡¯s family.
¡°Brother, let¡¯s go to the vige chief¡¯s house together,¡± Qin Zhenzhen suggested.
She believed that with the presence of her four brothers, they would be able to persuade the vige chief to assist them.
Upon reaching the vige chief¡¯s residence, they found Su Cheng and his sister still pleading with the vige chief.
¡°Uncle Vige Chief, we¡¯re telling the truth. My Third Sister-inw is wealthy and wants to redeem the contract,¡± Su Cheng pleaded earnestly.
The vige chief seemed reluctant to hand over the contract.
Qian Dashan¡¯s family had even made arrangements with the buyers of the fields. Qian Dashan imed that they would receive a portion of the profits after the sale.
¡°You¡¯re just children, what do you know? They¡¯ve fooled you with mere words.¡±
¡°Your Third Sister-inw was forced into your family, and your Third Brother doesn¡¯t even like her. So she¡¯s just a stranger to you.¡±
¡°The safest option is to keep the contract with me, Uncle Vige Chief.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen and her brothers listened attentively to their conversation.
The presence of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s four imposing brothers made the vige chief feel increasingly embarrassed and fearful.
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°Su Bin and I have a legitimate marriage contract, and we are a family. How can we be considered strangers?¡±
The vige chief stumbled over his words as he tried to exin himself. ¡°It was
Su Bin who entrusted the contract to me. In principle, I only recognize Su Bin.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen sneered. ¡°I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ve already sold the fields before Su Bin¡¯s arrival. ¡±
¡°Don¡¯t think I¡¯m unaware of your actions. You¡¯ve already made contact with the buyers. It¡¯s the He family from Dahe Vige, and they¡¯ve agreed to inspect the fields tomorrow. Just likest time, they¡¯ll pay the money and secure thend contract without the Su Family¡¯s knowledge.¡±
¡°What?!¡± Su Cheng and Su Ning eximed in shock. Wasn¡¯t the deadline three days away?
They were nning to sell thend within just one day!
¡°Third Sister-inw, you have to retrieve the contract for us!¡± Su Cheng pleaded urgently.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded, giving them a reassuring look.
The vige chief couldn¡¯t fathom how Qin Zhenzhen had learned about their arrangement with a reputable buyer.
However, he refused to admit it. ¡°There¡¯s no truth to what you¡¯re saying! Where did you hear this? Or did you simply make assumptions?¡±
Qin Dalong sneered. ¡°No one needs to inform us about this! We are good people, and the truth always finds its way to us!¡±
¡°My sister is married into the Su Family, and she is an integral part of it. You will not secretly sell her family¡¯snd!¡±
¡°We have already prepared the owed amount. We will pay the debts and retrieve the contract!¡± Qin Dalong stated firmly.
Fearful of provoking Qin Dalong and his brothers, the vige chief reluctantly took the contract and agreed to apany them to Qian Dashan¡¯s home.
Qian Dashan and his family had no choice but to face the impending confrontation.
Qin Zhenzhen retrieved 12 liang.
¡°This is the 10 liang I borrowed from your family, and the remaining 2 liang is the interest.¡±
Ms.. Lin shouted indignantly, ¡°I told you that 2 liang should have sufficed, and
20 liang should have been enough!¡±
Chapter 58 - 58: Redeeming the Deed
Chapter 58: Redeeming the Deed
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen maintained herposed demeanor as she retorted, ¡°You might as well resort to robbery! However, even if you wanted to, you wouldn¡¯t be able to take anything from them.¡±
¡°I am offering you the highest interest rate in the market, which is 2 liang. I won¡¯t give you a single coin more than that.¡±
A crowd had gathered by this point, observing the confrontation.
Ms. Lin continued her outburst, ¡°When we lent them money, we were also penniless. It was our husband who provided the loan, and we have been paying back the interest every month. After half a year, we have already earned over 10 liang!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen patiently waited for Ms. Lin to finish before extending her hand.
¡°In that case, show me the loan receipts.¡±
Ms. Lin had nothing to present.
Nevertheless, she persisted in her tantrum. ¡°Why should I show them to you? You have no authority to make decisions for the Su Family!¡±
Su Cheng and Su Ning interjected, ¡°Our Third Sister-inw has the authority to make decisions for the Su Family!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smirked in agreement. ¡°As long as I am still married to Su Bin, I will undoubtedly be the mistress of the Su Family!¡±
¡°You im to have borrowed money from loan sharks, yet you have no proof. You need to provide evidence to substantiate your ims. Then, you can present all the evidence to the local government office and let them decide the appropriate interest to be paid.¡±
The vige chief was taken aback.
The involvement of the government office was unexpected.
He was aware that the Qin Family had an uncle who served as an enforcer in the government office. He was practically the right-hand man of the County Magistrate, wielding significant authority.
It was due to this uncle¡¯s influence that Su Bin agreed to ept Qin Zhenzhen into the family.
He did not want to jeopardize his own position over some meager profits.
Contemting the situation, the vige chief spoke in a businesslike manner, ¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife is correct. As a member of the Su Family, she has the right to redeem the contracts on behalf of the family.¡±
¡°Qian Dashan, when you borrowed the money, you mentioned interest, but you did not specify that it was acquired from a loan shark. If it indeed involved a loan shark, then provide us with the evidence.¡±
Qian Dashan cursed the vige chief inwardly.
However, he could discern that the chief wanted to avoid any trouble.
In truth, Qian Dashan was also afraid.
Dealing with the government office was an intimidating prospect.
Well, he might as well admit that he was unlucky to have crossed paths with the Qin Family!
He red at his wife and feigned magnanimity. ¡°My wife forgot to mention that we borrowed money from loan sharks, but we have already repaid the debt, and all the receipts were destroyed.¡±
¡°The interest certainly exceeds 2 liang, but considering that we are rtives of the Su Family and they have no parents, as their uncle, I will regard the interest aspensation.¡±
¡°You pay us 12 liang, and we will agree.¡±
As Qian Dashan concluded his statement, the surrounding vigers burst intoughter.
¡°He¡¯s the one who¡¯s profiting, yet he pretends to be innocent!¡± ¡°He¡¯s taking advantage but acts as if he¡¯s helping them!¡±
¡°He bullied his nephews, and now he ims to be their savior!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen retorted in kind, returning the favor to Qian Dashan. ¡°In that case, I will drop the matter. Consider the fish you pilfered from my home as interest for your usury!¡±
Laughter erupted once again among the onlookers.
Qian Dashan gritted his teeth but could not conceive of any effective rebuttal.
Ms. Lin, still unconvinced even as the situation neared resolution, went to the inner room to seek support from Su Bin¡¯s grandmother.
¡°Mother-inw, I don¡¯t mean to sound disrespectful, but Qin Zhenzhen married into the Su Family under duress, and everyone in the Su Family regards her as an outsider. By taking the contract, she intends to hand it over to the Qin Family!¡±
¡°Su Cheng and Su Ning are young, and they are easily deceived. It is safest if you hold onto the contract!¡±
Grandma Wang may not have been adept at judging character, but she understood the situation clearly.
If she retained the contract, it would ultimately end up in the hands of her son and daughter-inw. She wasn¡¯t willing to engage in such foolishness.
She knew how her son and daughter-inw treated her grandchildren following the demise of her daughter and son-inw..
Chapter 59 - 59: Oath
Chapter 59: Oath
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Grandma Wang tried to reason with her son and daughter-inw, but they were difficult to deal with. Instead, they scolded her, taking advantage of her poor eyesight and fragile health. She had no choice but to submit to their whims and eat ording to their mood.
Gradually, she became numb to the mistreatment.
However, she had no intention of assisting her daughter-inw.
Summoning Su Cheng and Su Ning, she instructed them, ¡°Good children, you should keep the contract!¡±
¡°I am growing old, and your memory is not the best. It would be troublesome if you forget where you¡¯ve put it.¡±
Ms. Lin cursed, ¡°What are you talking about, mother-inw? You have a terrible memory! Are you afraid that the Qin Family wille after you, so you refuse to take responsibility?¡±
Grandma Wang emphasized, ¡°I fear nothing. I¡¯m simply concerned that someone might steal thend contract!¡±
Laughter erupted among the vigers once again.
Ms. Lin turned red with embarrassment.
Qian Dashan red at her. ¡°You¡¯re so meddlesome!¡±
Didn¡¯t they notice the fierce res from the Qin brothers?
Hadn¡¯t they heard that Qin Zhenzhen intended to report the matter to the governmental office?
Was she truly considering selling off the Su Family¡¯snd? Was she tired of living?
Qin Zhenzhen decided not to waste any more time. She left the money and departed with the contract.
The turnip soup was still simmering on the stove.
At dinner, the Qin brothers savored the delicious turnip bone soup and the vorful braised pork, feeling content and satisfied.
¡°Zhenzhen, it would be wonderful if you were still unmarried. We could enjoy such delicious food every day as brothers.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°Let me share a secret with you. It¡¯s not that I¡¯m an exceptional cook; I add some special seasonings to enhance the vors!¡±
¡°Really?¡±
The four Qin brothers found it hard to believe. ¡°Where did you get these special seasonings?¡±
¡°I made them myself!¡±
¡°Who taught you the recipe?¡±
¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I made a promise not to disclose the form or reveal who taught it to me.¡±
The four Qin brothers exchanged nces, genuinely clueless about the source.
Qin Silong suddenly pped his forehead. ¡°Zhenzhen, I think I¡¯ve figured it out! Is it¡
Qin Zhenzhen interrupted him. ¡°Fourth Brother, you shouldn¡¯t make wild guesses!¡±
¡°What if your guess is correct and word spreads? It would mean that I¡¯ve broken my promise. What if my promise remains unfulfilled?¡± Qin Zhenzhen knew exactly whom her Fourth Brother was alluding to.
He would likely assume that it was their grandmother!
The original host had read cooking books from Grandma¡¯s box, and her brothers could have done the same.
Furthermore, the previous night, after Grandma drank the delicious fish soup, she had asked Qin Zhenzhen to go into the room and close the door for a while. Given these circumstances, her brothers might suspect their grandmother.
As long as her brothers didn¡¯t reveal the secret, and she didn¡¯t confirm it personally, it was none of her concern.
Qin Silong held back his words and refrained from revealing his suspicion.
The other three brothers also had their grandmother in mind.
Curiosity got the better of them as they asked Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°What kind of oath did you make? Is it something serious?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen struggled to suppress herughter. ¡°It¡¯s not exactly an oath. I simply said that if I were to disclose this secret, I would spend the rest of my life alone!¡±
The four brothers were taken aback.
¡°Ah! Ah! Ah! Zhenzhen, how could you make such a vow? What if you identally let it slip?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen reassured them, ¡°I promise I will never reveal it to anyone.¡± ¡°If you happen to figure out who it is, just pretend that you don¡¯t know anything. Don¡¯t ask me about it.¡±
The four Qin brothers nodded in agreement. ¡°We understand..¡±
Chapter 60 - 60: Third Brother’s Change
Chapter 60: Third Brother¡¯s Change
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The four brothers of the Qin Family were all thinking that Grandma must have given the seasonings to Zhenzhen.
When Zhenzhen was at home, she had never left their sight. If she had met some otherworldly expert, they would have known about it.
She was not familiar with the Qian Vige, and she spent most of her time at her mother¡¯s home, so she did not know anyone who would give her the form.
But why did Grandma want Zhenzhen to make such an oath?
Oh yes, the whole family knew that their grandma had a story.
The old books in Grandma¡¯s box were about how to use medicinal herbs and ingredients to cook delicious and therapeutic food.
But grandma had never taught any of them how to cook.
They had also guessed that it was Grandma¡¯s secret.
Now that Grandma gave them the recipe for seasonings and asked Zhenzhen to keep it a secret, it was not difficult to understand.
The four brothers of the Qin Family had dinner at the Su Family before heading home.
After her brothers left, Qin Zhenzhen gave the contract to Su Cheng and his sister.
¡°Keep them safe.¡±
Su Cheng and Su Ning were both very surprised. ¡°Third Sister-inw, didn¡¯t we agree to keep it with you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled. ¡°No need, I don¡¯t care about the contracts.¡±
¡°Also, I am not the only one paying for the 12 liang.¡±
¡°In addition to all expenses, we have 7-5 liang left from selling the pancakes.
We will share it equally, 2.5 liang for each.¡±
¡°So the two of you offered 5 liang as well.¡±
Hearing what Qin Zhenzhen said, Su Ning waved her hands. ¡°Third
Sister-inw, we are just helping you, not sharing!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen maintained her smile. ¡°That is fine, but I am at the Su Family, and the money I earn belongs to the Su Family.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry, I don¡¯t care about the money.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen stated this because she wanted to establish a good rtionship with Su Ning and her brother, hoping to resolve the grudges between her and
Su Bin.
Su Ning and Su Cheng expressed their gratitude to Qin Zhenzhen.
However, Qin Zhenzhen reminded them, ¡°Don¡¯t give the contract to your
Second Brother.¡±
Su Ping had a reckless nature. He often disclosed information about the martial world and sold items whenever he ran out of money.
Their father had two jade pendants, one for the eldest son and the other for Su
Bin, who had the highest chance of seeding.
Su Bin¡¯s jade pendant was well-protected.
But Su Ping had already sold his own jade pendant.
Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion discovered that they were in the Qian Vige and initiated a series of schemes.
Otherwise, Su Bin¡¯s family would not have faced such misery.
Someone as irresponsible as Su Ping would likely sell the fields after selling the jade.
Su Cheng and Su Ning were taken aback and nodded in agreement. ¡°Okay!¡± The siblings decided to hide the contract in Su Cheng¡¯s room.
¡°Fifth Brother, Third Sister-inw is right. We need to be cautious about
Second Brother selling the fields.¡±
¡°Yes.¡±
Su Cheng nodded in agreement.
Their Second Brother had always been irresponsible, and that was why they often struggled.
Their Third Brother was capable, but he was fully upied with his studies and had little time to take care of them.
Fourth Brother had managed to support himself, which wasmendable enough.
However, it was their despised Third Sister-inw who brought them a sense of security.
But to their surprise, Third Sister-inw kept expressing her desire to divorce
Third Brother.
Su Ning tried to console her brother. ¡°Fifth Brother, don¡¯t worry about anything else. Third Sister-inw has changed so much for the better, perhaps Third Brother will have a change of heart.¡±
¡°If Third Brother has a change of heart, I¡¯m sure Third Sister-inw will reconsider the divorce..¡±
Chapter 61 - 61: Wild Yam Field
Chapter 61: Wild Yam Field
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning agreed to venture into the mountains the next day.
Early in the morning, Su Ning informed Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°My Fifth Brother will join us. He¡¯s going to gather firewood.¡±
¡°Alright,¡± Qin Zhenzhen agreed without objection.
She had intended to explore the mountains to identify the herbs growing there. She had even fabricated the story about collecting seasonings to share with Su
Ning.
After having breakfast, the three of them set off.
Curious vigers couldn¡¯t help but inquire, ¡°Su Ning, are you three going to gather firewood in the mountains?¡± Su Ning nodded, ¡°Yes.¡±
¡°Then why are you carrying a basket?¡±
¡°We¡¯re gathering wild fruits.¡±
¡°Haha, you three seem so rxed!¡±
The Su Family¡¯s water fields had been rented out to her uncle¡¯s family for cultivation since there were no adults at home. The rent was not substantial.
Su Ning and her brother cultivated the remaining drynd, nting soybeans and peanuts in spring and sweet potatoes in autumn. Sweet potatoes served as their main source of sustenance.
Observing that Qin Zhenzhen had no intention of providing further exnation, Su Ning decided not to press the matter.
Actually, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s main purpose was to dig medicinal herbs, which required her to carry the basket.
As the vigers watched them leave, they began discussing among themselves. ¡°That¡¯s quite strange. Doesn¡¯t the chubby girl look like a different person now?¡±
¡°She used to be sozy. I heard she would eat and sleep all day, and when she slept, she wouldn¡¯t eat anything. That¡¯s why she became so fat.¡± ¡°But now, she can fish, fry pancakes, and even set up stalls to earn money.¡±
¡°And now we have to go into the mountains to fetch firewood.¡±
¡°But that¡¯s not all! Have you noticed that she has lost weight recently? Her waist has be smaller, and her face looks better.¡±
¡°It¡¯s not just her. Su Ning and Su Cheng have also gained weight and their faces look healthier. ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but smile to herself.
Indeed, Su Ning and Su Cheng had visibly gained weight.
And she had lost some weight herself in recent days.
All thanks to the spiritual water on her fingers.
Spiritual water was truly miraculous and versatile.
It could help with weight loss and weight gain.
When they reached the mountain, Su Cheng started gathering firewood while Qin Zhenzhen spotted a yam vine on the opposite side.
Excitedly, she told Su Ning, ¡°I¡¯m going over there. I saw many yams!¡±
Su Ning looked puzzled. ¡°What are yams?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen exined, ¡°Yams are a type of medicinal herb. They are root nts that grow underground.¡±
¡°Look, there are small mounds of medicinal grains on the vines. Those are yam vines.¡±
Su Ning noticed the vines too and asked with curiosity, ¡°Are yams valuable?¡±
Seeing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s excitement, she assumed those herbs must be quite expensive.
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°If we dig them up and dry them at home, they can fetch a good price.
It¡¯s more profitable than selling them directly.¡± Su Ning became eager. ¡°Then let¡¯s go dig them!¡± She regretted only bringing one small iron hoe in the basket. She wished she had brought two.
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°You can start picking the yams now. We can continue digging tomorrow. ¡±
In reality, Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t very optimistic about selling yams directly. It would involve hard work, and Su Ning and Su Cheng were still young. Her n was not to make immediate money from this venture.
Instead, she intended to enlist the help of the vigers to harvest the yams, and then she would purchase them. Later, she would find arger buyer in town to make a substantial profit.
For now, she wanted to create some samples.
Upon hearing the possibility of making money, Su Ning grew even more excited. She called out to Su Cheng, ¡°Fifth Brother, Third Sister-inw and I are going to the opposite mountain to dig yams.. Join us when you¡¯re done with the firewood!¡±
Chapter 62 - 62: Good Luck
Chapter 62: Good Luck
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Cheng asked, ¡°What are yams?¡±
Su Ning replied, ¡°I¡¯ll exinter. I don¡¯t know what they look like or their benefits, but Third Sister-inw says they can fetch a high price!¡±
This news delighted Su Cheng, and he said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll join you soon.¡±
He picked up the firewood at a quicker pace, eager to see what yams were like.
Then, Su Cheng remembered something and called out to his sister, ¡°Go check if there are any wild animals caught in the traps Second Brother set up.¡± They knew the chances were slim, but it wouldn¡¯t take long to have a look.
¡°Okay, I¡¯ll do that,¡± Su Ning responded.
The trap was ced near the water in the ditch. It wasmon knowledge among hunters that animals were more likely to be found near water sources.
Qin Zhenzhen had a sudden idea.
After all, her water was supposed to enhance the taste of food. What if she used the spirit water on nts that animals liked to eat? Maybe she could attract wild rabbits.
The thought of braised rabbit meat made Qin Zhenzhen even more interested.
¡°I¡¯lle with you,¡± she said.
Su Ning chuckled. ¡°What if there are wild rabbits? Your family wouldn¡¯t dare to catch them.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled confidently. ¡°You underestimate me! If we do find rabbits, I¡¯ll catch them for you to see!¡± ¡°Okay, I will wait and see!¡±
The two of them went to the trap happily.
On the way, Su Ning kept reminding Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Be careful not to fall into the trap.¡±
¡°There are several traps by the water, all dug by people from the vige.¡±
¡°Second Brother¡¯s trap is the biggest, but we rarely catch animals. Fifth Brother and Ie to check it out every few days.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled.
What was the point of traps?
It was useless if they could not hunt animals.
She decided to give her spirit water a try and see if she could eat braised rabbit meat tonight.
Qin Zhenzhen picked some tender leaves that rabbits loved to eat.
Su Ning was confused. ¡°What are you picking these for?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled mysteriously. ¡°I will tell youter!¡±
The two of them went to the trap, which was still disguised. Su Ning was very disappointed.
¡°I don¡¯t think we have any animals.¡±
The purpose of putting a disguise on the trap was to let animals that came to drink water step into it.
But Su Ning was not convinced. She unveiled the leaves and soft grass and got a clear look.
There was nothing inside the trap, which was 1.23 meters deep and 1.23 meters wide.
Su Ning was really disappointed.
¡°There is nothing inside.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had already dripped a few drops of spiritual water on the tender leaves she had picked.
She put the tender leaves into the trap, and then lifted the camouge on the trap and put it aside.
Su Ning found that strange. ¡°Third Sister-inw, you want to use these tender leaves to lure wild rabbits down to eat?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°True¡±
Su Ning couldn¡¯t help but contain herughter.
She wanted to mention that wild rabbits weren¡¯t foolish enough to jump into such arge pit.
However, she kept her thoughts to herself.
Despite her doubts, Su Ning couldn¡¯t deny that her Third Sister-inw seemed to have an uncanny streak of luck.
From the astounding sess of her pancakes to her Fifth Brother¡¯s endearing innocence, remarkable things seemed to happen around her.
And who could forget their fishing expedition? The way they effortlessly caught those big fish felt almost surreal when Su Ning reflected upon it..
Chapter 63 - 63: Understanding
Chapter 63: Understanding
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
More importantly, she and her Fifth Brother went fishing again. Equipped with the same rod and the same earthworms, they had hoped for a sessful catch of small fish. However, luck seemed to elude them as they returned empty-handed.
Their disappointment was not unique. The children of the vige also faced a simr fate, unable to reel in any fish.
Amidst the chatter in the vige, everyone attributed their misfortunes to the supposed good fortune of their Third Sister-inw, who seemed to possess a magical touch when it came to carp fishing.
Another belief circted that the tender leaves she picked had an uncanny ability to attract wild rabbits, coaxing them to willingly enter traps. The vigers entertained the thought of relishing a braised rabbit feast that night.
Amidst these thoughts, Su Ning didn¡¯t intervene as Qin Zhenzhen pursued her own tasks.
Upon their return home, Su Ning would perhaps discreetly rece the real grass with a fake substitute.
As they reached the yam field on the opposite mountain, Qin Zhenzhen assigned Su Ning the task of gathering the yam fruits while she dug for the roots.
Digging yam roots proved to be a challenging endeavor.
In the modern world, yam nts were engineered to facilitate easy harvesting of their roots. However, wild yam roots were a different story altogether. They grew long and thin, often vertically instead of horizontally. Extracting them intact required deep and careful digging.
Yet, Qin Zhenzhen remained in good spirits, disying remarkable patience. As she dug, she took the opportunity to educate Su Ning about the various beneficial effects of yams.
¡°Yams possess fifteen notable effects,¡± she exined.
¡°Firstly, they nourish the body and help slow down the aging process.¡±
¡°Secondly, they can aid in weight loss and serve as ingredients for cosmetics and skincare products.¡±
¡°Thirdly, yams contribute to kidney health and can alleviate symptoms of frequent urination.¡±
¡°Fourthly, they act as a natural remedy for treating diarrhea and enhancing the digestive and absorptive functions of the body. They can also alleviate loss of appetite and indigestion.¡±
¡°Fifthly, yams provide an energy boost, help strengthen the qi, and effectively treat coughs and shortness of breath.¡±
When Qin Zhenzhen finished exining the fifteen effects, Su Ning was left in awe.
¡°Third Sister-inw, you have such extensive knowledge!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°Of course. I have been studying and memorizing medicinal herbs since I was a child. I¡¯vemitted the effects of many herbs to memory.¡±
Admiration shone in Su Ning¡¯s eyes.
¡°Third Sister-inw, could you teach me too?¡±
¡°Certainly, I can teach you how to use medicinal herbs and ingredients to create delicious dishes that also have healing properties.¡±
¡°That¡¯s fantastic! Thank you for agreeing to teach me, Third Sister-inw!¡±
Su Ning felt a mix of happiness and concern. ¡°But won¡¯t it take a long time to learn all of this?¡±
She worried that Third Sister-inw and Third Brother might end up divorcing each other.
Third Brother had never shown much fondness for Third Sister-inw, and Third Sister-inw had confessed that her feelings towards Third Brother had changed as well.
Qin Zhenzhen understood Su Ning¡¯s concerns and smiled reassuringly. ¡°As long as I am part of the Su Family, I will do my best to teach you. Your progress will depend on your own dedication and a bit of luck.¡±
Su Ning¡¯s spirits dampened slightly.
No matter how intelligent a person was, it was impossible to learn everything at once.
If her Third Sister-inw and Third Brother divorced, she would lose the opportunity to learn from her altogether.
She silently hoped that Third Sister-inw and Third Brother would stay together, for it would be a great loss to never have her as a mentor again.
Pondering over her thoughts, Su Ning mustered up the courage to ask, ¡°Third
Sister-inw, you used to have such strong feelings for my Third Brother. Why did you decide to divorce him?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled gently. ¡°Have you ever heard the saying, ¡®Hold your hand open, and let go if it¡¯s not warm enough¡¯? People change, and if you can¡¯t change them, sometimes it¡¯s better to let go.¡±
Su Ning remained in a state of surprise for a long while, contemting Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words. It was clear that she intended to convey a vital message to Su Ning.
Indeed, it was true that one could have deep affection for another person, but they couldn¡¯t force that person to reciprocate those feelings. It was essential to recognize that if the other person didn¡¯t have the same intention, it was better to release them as soon as possible. Clinging to someone who didn¡¯t share the same sentiments would only bring trouble and turmoil to oneself and their family.
Qin Zhenzhen hoped to guide Su Ning towards a different path, as in the original story, Su Ning had been portrayed as a stubborn girl who repeatedly delved into darkness. If only Su Ning had heeded her advice, perhaps she could have changed her unfortunate fate..
Chapter 64 - 64: Change of Look
Chapter 64: Change of Look
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ning was taken aback by the unexpected attempt of Qin Zhenzhen to enlighten her. She pondered over Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words, ¡°Cover your hands, let go if they are not hot, and change people¡¯s hearts. If you can¡¯t change them, give up.¡±
Unable to contain her curiosity, Su Ning voiced her skepticism, ¡°But you haven¡¯t even started wearing the gloves yet, how can you be certain they won¡¯t get hot?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was initially taken aback by Su Ning¡¯s response, but then she chuckled and said, ¡°Do you really think there¡¯s a chance between your Third Brother and me? You¡¯re just kidding yourself!¡±
¡°Your Third Brother is incredibly talented and destined for greatness. He¡¯s handsome and proud, so how could he possibly have any interest in someone like me?¡±
While Su Ning agreed with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s perspective, she couldn¡¯t help but offer a counterargument, ¡°Third Sister-inw, you¡¯re underestimating yourself! You¡¯re capable, fortunate, and beautiful!¡±
¡°Third Brother simply doesn¡¯t know you well enough, and he¡¯s unaware that it was Aunt who pushed you when you identally stumbled towards him. Once he learns the truth, his opinion of you will undoubtedly change.¡±
Why give up without even putting up a fight? Why belittle yourself?
Qin Zhenzhen dismissed the topic with a wave of her hand, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s not dwell on this. You¡¯re still young and inexperienced when ites to understanding adults, and you¡¯re not your Third Brother, so you can¡¯t possibly fathom his thoughts!¡±
As the original book revealed, Su Bin held the highest official position, but he had never married.
Haunted by the tragedy that Qin Shi had brought upon him, he had grown averse to thepany of women. His disdain for them was so profound that he couldn¡¯t tolerate any woman within three feet of him.
Except for his own sister.
If any woman happened to touch him identally, he would be irritable. Eventually, even Su Ning found it impossible to bridge the emotional gap between them.
There was one royal princess who had developed an interest in Su Bin and attempted to arrange a meeting with him at a banquet.
However, just as the princess approached him, Su Bin abruptly moved away, observing as the princess stumbled and fell to the ground.
He disyed no fear in offending even the Emperor himself.
This peculiar behavior left everyone questioning if he suffered from some sort of mental illness that fueled his aversion towards women.
It was evident that the original host, responsible for Su Bin¡¯s emotional scars, was the root cause of his affliction. The original host had caused him immense pain, to the point that he would find satisfaction in her demise once he attained power.
Su Ning refused to believe that Su Bin would ever fall in love with her.
Moreover, she had no interest in him whatsoever.
The most desirable oue for them would be an agreement and subsequent divorce.
Although Su Ning refrained from directly contradicting Qin Zhenzhen any further, she had devised a n. As soon as her Third Brother returned home, she intended to personally inform him of everything his Third Sister-inw had been up totely.
Their Third Brother was an understanding individual, and Su Ning was certain that he would alter his opinion of his Third Sister-inw upon learning the truth.
Just as it had happened with her and her Fifth Brother. Two months ago, they harbored wishes for Third Sister-inw¡¯s demise, but within a few days, they had grown reluctant to see her leave their household.
Su Cheng didn¡¯t pause to gather firewood. With nothing suitable on the ground, he climbed up a tree to cut branches.
Before long, he managed to secure four bundles of dry firewood, selecting the tworgest ones for himself and leaving the two smaller bundles for his sister. Third Sister-inw would carry the basket.
They were all engaged in digging yams, confident that they would fill the baskets, as mentioned by Third Sister-inw. Little did Su Cheng know that those yam vines held medicinal properties.
Eager to assist them, Su Cheng hurried along the path. However, his thirstpelled him to seek water, leading him to a nearby ditch.
As he approached, he suddenly heard the continuous cries of a wild boar. He halted, realizing that the sound emanated from the trap his Second Brother had set.
What? A wild boar trapped in there?
Su Cheng couldn¡¯t help but quicken his pace.
Meanwhile, Su Ning and Qin Zhenzhen also caught wind of the wild boar¡¯s cries..
Chapter 65 - 65: A Wild Boar
Chapter 65: A Wild Boar
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ning harbored suspicions and voiced her concern, ¡°Third Sister-inw, do you hear that? Is it the sound of wild boars?¡±
The noise seemed to originate from the direction of the trap.
Qin Zhenzhen set aside the iron hoe she was holding. ¡°Indeed, those are wild boar sounds. I¡¯m going to check if a wild boar has fallen into the trap!¡±
She couldn¡¯t hide her excitement. The wild boar must have been lured by her spiritual water, and now the ravenous creature had unwittingly be ensnared!
Chuckling to herself, she attributed the furious noises to the wild boar¡¯s unsessful attempts to escape the trap.
Su Ning ced her basket down. ¡°I¡¯lle along and have a look!¡±
Both of them hastened their steps towards the trap.
En route, Su Ning heard Su Cheng¡¯s enthusiastic shout, ¡°Third Sister-inw, Sixth Sister, there¡¯s a wild boar caught in Second Brother¡¯s trap!¡±
Upon hearing the news, Su Ning couldn¡¯t contain her excitement. ¡°How big is
¡°Probably around 150 kg!¡±
Su Ning grew even more ted. ¡°Third Sister-inw, you¡¯re incredibly fortunate! The leaves you gathered truly attracted the wild boar!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen tried to suppress herughter. ¡°I was merely testing it out. Wild boars are so foolish, and we¡¯re fortunate too.¡¯ ¡°Then we¡¯re all lucky, Third Sister-inw!¡±
The two of them arrived at the trap.
Sure enough, a sizable wild boar weighing approximately 150 kg was captured within.
Su Cheng couldn¡¯t stop grinning.
Su Ning proceeded to inform Su Cheng about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s leaf-picking method.
Su Cheng¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Does that really work? It¡¯s unbelievable!¡±
Su Ning nodded in agreement. ¡°Absolutely true, but it¡¯s still hard to believe! Third Sister-inw, you¡¯re not only lucky, but also clever with plenty of ideas!¡±
Su Cheng gazed at the captured wild boar. ¡°Third Sister-inw, how do we go about dealing with this wild boar?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°First, we need to kill it, and then we can drag it back. ¡±
It seemed obvious that they couldn¡¯t bring the wild boar home without first dispatching it.
Su Ning expressed her concern. ¡°Third Sister-inw, do you know how to ughter pigs?¡±
Neither she nor Fifth Brother possessed such knowledge.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not familiar with the process.¡±
Even if she did know, a sickle wouldn¡¯t be sufficient to kill a wild boar.
ughtering pigs required the assistance of several individuals, let alone dealing with a wild boar.
In her previous life, she wouldn¡¯t have dared to confront a wild boar alone.
Su Cheng sighed regretfully. ¡°If only Second Brother were here.¡±
¡°What if I go back to the vige and seek help?¡± Qin Zhenzhen shook her head.
¡°Let¡¯s go to my home and fetch my brothers.¡±
¡°It¡¯s not far from here, and it¡¯s still early.¡±
The two viges were in close proximity to each other.
Qin Vige was closer to the town, but it also had close ties to Qian Vige.
Su Ning chimed in. ¡°Yes, we should go and fetch Third Sister-inw¡¯s brothers.¡±
¡°The vigers here don¡¯t know how to ughter pigs.¡±
Moreover, if they sought assistance from the vigers, they would likely demand a portion of the wild boar aspensation.
Su Ning made up her mind to share the wild boar with Oin Zhenzhen¡¯s brothers.
After all, Third Sister-inw¡¯s brothers had been incredibly helpful the day before.
Su Cheng also recognized this and agreed. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll head there right away!¡± Qin Zhenzhen reminded him, ¡°Don¡¯t bother collecting firewood, just go back empty-handed.¡±
¡°Got it!¡±
Su Cheng, ustomed to traversing the mountains, swiftly disappeared from sight.
Qin Zhenzhen turned to Su Ning. ¡°You stay here and keep watch. I¡¯ll gather the yams and load them into the basket. Then I¡¯ll join you in standing guard.¡±
Since the wild boar couldn¡¯t escape the trap, it oscited between fury and panic. It aimlessly wandered within the enclosure, using its snout to dig around.
The mor created by the wild boar¡¯smotion could attract people from nearby, so it was essential for them to remain vignt..
Chapter 66 - 66: Robbing
Chapter 66: Robbing
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ning thought of the same thing. ¡°Third Sister-inw, you can take care of it. I will fetch the yams.¡±
¡°I am worried that I won¡¯t be able to deal with them.¡± Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°Let me do it. I am stronger.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry, if anyonees, just shout for me toe.¡± ¡°As long as I am here, I will not let anyone steal the wild boar.¡±
Su Ning nodded. ¡°Thene home as soon as possible.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen grew increasingly concerned that people from nearby viges might venture onto this public mountain.
If they encountered individuals from their own vige, they could simply exin that their Second Brother had set the trap.
However, if they came across outsiders, she wouldn¡¯t be able to handle the situation as easily.
Qin Zhenzhen swiftly went to retrieve the yams, relieved that they weren¡¯t too far away.
When Qin Zhenzhen carried the yams to the trap, two men from other viges came.
¡°Hurry up, the sound of wild boar ising from the ditch.¡± ¡°He must have fallen into the trap!¡±
¡°No matter who set up the trap, it must belong to us if we see it!¡±
¡°Of course, we are so lucky!¡±
¡°Hahaha, we got one wild boar instead of the rooster!¡±
Su Ning got nervous. ¡°Third Sister-inw, what should we do? They are two grown men!¡± Qin Zhenzhen consoled her. ¡°I am here, you don¡¯t have to be afraid.¡±
¡°I am not afraid.¡¯
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s confident demeanor, Su Ning felt a bit more reassured.
Indeed, Third Sister-inw¡¯s four brothers were not to be underestimated, and they might not dare to steal from them.
Soon, the two men arrived at the trap, appearing surprised to see Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning.
One of the men reacted quickly and chuckled, ¡°You two girls, do you find wild boars so captivating?¡±
¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that the wild boar will climb up and attack you?¡±
Su Ning snorted. ¡°It can¡¯t climb up!¡±
The man¡¯s smile faded. ¡°So you¡¯re guarding the wild boar and hoping to im a share? Sorry, we dug the trap, and even if you spotted the wild boar first, you won¡¯t get a portion!¡±
Another man chimed in, ¡°Wang Er, let¡¯s not be stingy. We can offer them a few kilos of wild boar meat in return for helping us keep watch.¡±
Su Ning grew furious. ¡°Stop spouting nonsense! It was our Second Brother who set the trap! Fifth Brother and I were assisting him!¡±
The two men exchanged a look between themselves.
Wang Er said, ¡°Girl, don¡¯t talk nonsense. It was us who set the trap!¡±
¡°The wild boars are ours!¡±
¡°My Second Brother set the trap! Many people in our vige can testify that!¡± Su Ning was so anxious that she almost cried.
But Wang Er said unreasonably, ¡°We set the trap, and we can turn to the vigers to prove that!¡±
As long as they gave some benefits to the vigers, there would definitely be someone who could testify for them.
Also, as long as they got the wild boar first, it did not matter if they had any witnesses.
Su Ning turned to Qin Zhenzhen worriedly. ¡°Third Sister-inw, what should we do if they want to rob us?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen fearlessly faced the two men, wearing a confident smile. ¡°Your names aren¡¯t inscribed on the trap. How did you dig it?¡±
Wang Er rolled his eyes. ¡°Well, your names aren¡¯t on it either!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°Exactly! This is a public mountain, shared by people from multiple viges.. Even if the trap isn¡¯tbeled, does the wild boar automatically belong to whoever spots it first?¡±
Chapter 67 - 67: Kung Fu
Chapter 67: Kung Fu
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Realizing that he had been tricked by Qin Zhenzhen, Wang Er sneered. ¡°Don¡¯t think that you can take our wild boar as your own!¡±
¡°If you know what is good for you, get out of the way. When we kill the wild boar and drag it home, we can share some good wild boar meat with you.¡±
¡°If you don¡¯t listen to us, we will teach you a lesson!¡±
The other man decided to steal them all.
¡°Get out of the way!¡±
As the wild boar¡¯s cries grew increasingly piercing, it was certain that more people would flock to the scene upon hearing themotion.
If they didn¡¯t act swiftly, there was a risk that the wild boar could be imed by others.
Recognizing the urgency, Qin Zhenzhen instinctively shielded Su Ning, pulling her behind for protection.
¡°If you want to steal our wild boar, you have to beat me!¡±
Wang Erughed. ¡°You want to fight with us?¡±
¡°You can¡¯t even turn around, don¡¯t embarrass yourself!¡±
The other man was a little anxious.
¡°Wang Er, don¡¯t talk with her. She wants to wait until her helper arrives.¡±
¡°She might think that we don¡¯t dare to hit women!¡± He was about to push Qin Zhenzhen into the pit.
What a vicious man!
Qin Zhenzhen already had a wooden stick in her hands. ¡°You can try and see if it is difficult to turn around!¡±
¡°Wang Er, let¡¯s go together!¡±
¡°Okay!¡±
The two audacious men were on the verge ofunching an attack on Qin Zhenzhen simultaneously.
However, they were taken aback when they realized that the stick in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hands seemed to possess a mind of its own, precisely aimed at their acupoints.
As a Chinese medicine doctor, Qin Zhenzhen possessed a deep understanding of acupoints.
Being a devoted martial arts enthusiast, she was far from being a novice, far surpassing the abilities of an average woman.
It was only now that the two men realized they had provoked someone they shouldn¡¯t have.
¡°Ouch! It hurts! This plump girl is definitely skilled in martial arts!¡±
¡°Ah¡ please stop! We surrender!¡±
Su Ning was initially startled, but soon she pped her hands and cheered.
¡°Well done, Third Sister-inw! Well done!¡±
Before long, Qin Zhenzhen sessfully subdued the two men, pressing them to the ground.
¡°Who exactly are you?¡±
¡°Have you studied martial arts before?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied with aposed demeanor, ¡°I am Qin Zhenzhen, married into Qian Vige!¡±
The two men were very surprised. ¡°You are Qin Dalong¡¯s sister? You are married to Su Bin from the Qian Vige?¡±
Su Ning rushed to answer. ¡°True! Let¡¯s see if you dare to talk nonsense and say that you set the trap!¡±
The two men suddenly realized that Qin Zhenzhen was the sister of Qin Dalong.
The four brothers of the Qin Family were known for their exceptional strength, despite never formally studying martial arts. They possessed natural fighting abilities.
However, it was evident that this seemingly plump girl had received martial arcs trammg.
Wang Er wore a smile. ¡°Just give each of us 5 kilograms of wild boar meat¡¡± Another man chimed in. ¡°Wild boars in the mountains belong to everyone!¡± Qin Zhenzhen regarded them as if they were fools.
¡°You want 5 kilograms of wild boar meat? Did you even consider if I want it?¡±
¡°I spared you earlier, but if you want to try your luck, I can give you a few more beatings!¡±
Only then did the two men reluctantly acknowledge their misfortune and departed.
However, four more individuals arrived¡ªSu Ning¡¯s uncle, aunt, cousin Qian Erhu, and another man from Qian Vige.
They hade upon hearing the cries of the wild boar..
Chapter 68 - 68: Wild Boar in the Public Mountain
Chapter 68: Wild Boar in the Public Mountain
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Dad, hurry up!¡± ¡°Dashan, hurry up!¡±
¡°What a huge wild boar!¡±
Ms.Lin and her family were so happy to see wild boars in the trap.
They did not care about Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning¡¯s presence at all.
Ms.Lin gave the chopper to Qian Dashan. ¡°Just kill the wild boar and drag it home with us!¡±
Qian Dashan nervously nced at the wild boar¡¯s long and menacing tusks before timidly asking, ¡°Can we kill it with the sickle?¡±
Ms. Lin, unconcerned, nodded eagerly. ¡°Of course we can! And if it doesn¡¯t die, we¡¯ll strike it a few more times!¡±
¡°As long as it¡¯s injured, it¡¯ll bleed out eventually!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s mouth watered at the thought of braised wild boar meat, and Qian Dashan¡¯s fear evaporated.
The other man didn¡¯t want to be outdone and joined forces with Qian Dashan.
Qin Zhenzhen coldly regarded them. ¡°Let¡¯s see who dares toy a hand on our wild boar!¡±
Ms. Lin raised her voice defiantly. ¡°How amusing! Why should the wild boar in the public mountains belong to you?¡±
¡°It¡¯s my Second Brother¡¯s trap! We discovered it first, so it¡¯s rightfully ours.¡±
Qian Erhu tugged at his mother¡¯s clothes. ¡°Mom, it¡¯s Brother Su¡¯s trap!¡±
Ms. Lin shrugged off her son¡¯s grip. ¡°Regardless of who set the trap, the wild boar belongs to everyone on this public mountain. Whoever manages to kill it will have it!¡±
The man brandishing a chopper chimed in. ¡°Exactly! Whoever kills the wild boar will im it!¡±
They believed that Qin Zhenzhen would be unable to kill the wild boar.
But they were determined to prove themselves!
Qin Zhenzhen remained silent. She skillfully tied the thick vines into a slipknot, seizing the opportunity to secure the wild boar¡¯s head.
The wild boar emitted a final shriek before sumbing to unconsciousness.
Qin Zhenzhen hadn¡¯t intended to kill the wild boar in this manner.
They needed to bleed the animal first to ensure the meat would be visually appealing and vorful.
However, wild boars belonged to those who could sessfully take their lives.
If they believed she was incapable of killing the wild boar, then she wouldn¡¯t waste any more time engaging in futile discussions with them.
Qian Dashan and the others were astounded by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s fierce and skilled actions.
Ms. Lin quickly grasped the situation and eximed, ¡°Wild boars in the public mountains, anyone?¡±
The three of them were present, which meant they could each im a portion.
Another man chimed in, ¡°Absolutely, wild boars in the public mountains!¡± He wasn¡¯t being greedy; he merely sought one portion.
However, Qin Zhenzhen waved the wooden stick in her hands. ¡°I won¡¯t be giving any to you! If you want to share our wild boar meat, you¡¯ll have to pry this stick from my hands!¡±
She didn¡¯t mind sharing a few kilograms of wild boar meat with them during a blind date scenario.
But they were bullying her and Su Ning! She wouldn¡¯t be generous without gaining anything in return!
Su Ning¡¯s worries evaporated.
She had witnessed her Third Sister-inw¡¯s capabilities.
If Third Sister-inw could drive away the two outsiders, she could certainly handle Uncle and the others.
Ms. Lin, ovee with frustration, lunged at Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Go ahead, kill me if you dare!¡±
¡°I wouldn¡¯t want to dirty my hands with someone like you!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen swiftly pushed Ms. Lin aside and confronted Qian Dashan and the other man with her stick.
Before long, Qian Dashan and the other man were both subdued by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s skillful strikes.
They stared at her as if she were a monstrous being.
¡°Have you learned martial arts before?¡± they inquired, astonished..
Chapter 69 - 69: Old Ancestor’s Rules
Chapter 69: Old Ancestor¡¯s Rules
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qian Dashan and the others were finally driven away by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s resolute actions.
Ms. Lin continued to mutter curses as she walked away.
¡°I¡¯ve never seen such a fierce woman!¡±
¡°A real tomboy!¡±
¡°It serves you right that Su Bin doesn¡¯t like you!¡±
¡°And it serves Su Bin right for not sharing a room with you!¡±
¡°I¡¯m going to fetch the vige chief and others. Wild boars on the public mountain are meant for everyone. Don¡¯t even think about iming them all for yourselves!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen dismissed Ms. Lin¡¯s ramblings as nonsensical. She was already far away and Qin Zhenzhen had no desire to engage further.
Su Ning discreetly observed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expression and breathed a sigh of relief when she saw that she was unharmed.
However, Su Ning couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of regret.
Did Third Sister-inw truly not care anymore because she had given up on Third Brother?
Qin Zhenzhen resolved to carry out one task ¡ª bleeding the wild boar before itpletely lost consciousness. This would ensure that the taste of the meat remained unaffected.
She took the sickle and made a deep cut on the wild boar¡¯s neck. Then, using the thick vine in her hand, she tightened it until the wild boar met its demise.
Su Ning stood there in astonishment.
Qin Zhenzhen had imed to not know how to ughter pigs, yet here she was, sessfully killing a wild boar.
Qin Zhenzhen was undeniably fierce. She could fight men and take down wild boars.
But with each passing moment, Su Ning found herself growing fonder of her Third Sister-inw.
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning had diligently stood guard at the trap until the arrival of Su Cheng and the four brothers from the Qin Family.
Qin Dalong couldn¡¯t help but express his disappointment upon seeing the wild boar trapped.
¡°It¡¯s such a shame to waste the blood of a wild boar. It has many uses.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen recounted the events that had transpired.
¡°If I didn¡¯t kill the wild boar, they would havee to steal it. If we drove them away, more people would have arrived. If there were too many, I¡¯m afraid I wouldn¡¯t have been able to handle them all.¡±
Qin Silong cursed, ¡°Your uncle¡¯s family is shameless!¡±
Su Ning added, ¡°Yes, they¡¯re shameless! But Third Sister-inw managed to drive them away!¡±
Qin Erlong chuckled, ¡°Zhenzhen, you¡¯re amazing!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded proudly, ¡°We¡¯re quite strong.¡±
Qin Dalong inspected the wound and became even more surprised.
¡°Zhenzhen, you know how to ughter pigs!¡±
¡°That¡¯s impressive. The de was positioned perfectly.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen tried to stifle herughter. ¡°I learned from observing my brothers¡¯ practices!¡±
With the Qin Brothers taking turns to carry the wild boar, weighing 150 kilograms, they soon transported it to the Su Family¡¯s location.
Su Cheng and his sister promptly boiled water to scald the pig¡¯s fur.
The Qin Brothers had brought their pig ughtering tools with them.
After the wild boar was washed, they immersed the fur in boiling water to facilitate its removal.
Wild boars had long and challenging fur to remove, but for the Qin Brothers, who were experienced in this task, it presented no difficulty.
Once the fur was removed, they proceeded to open the wild boar¡¯s belly and cut the meat into manageable pieces.
Ms. Lin, still unconvinced, arrived at the Su Family¡¯s location with a group of people in tow.
¡°We¡¯ve also encountered wild boars! Wild boars in public mountains must be shared by everyone; it¡¯s a rule!¡±
The individuals apanying her chimed in, emphasizing, ¡°Indeed, this is a rule passed down by our ancestors for thousands of years!¡±
¡°Qin Zhenzhen, you can¡¯t break the rules established by our ancestors!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded firmly, ¡°I understand the rules. If they are reasonable, I am willing to share. However, they have no right to im ownership over the pork! ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen recounted how Ms. Lin had attempted to steal the wild boar.
¡°If I hadn¡¯t been strong enough to drive them away, they would have taken this wild boar!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯spanions turned to her, questioning if it was true.
Initially, Ms. Lin denied the allegations. However, when Su Ning stepped forward as a witness, Ms. Lin had nothing left to say in her defense..
Chapter 70 - 70: Credit
Chapter 70: Credit
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Second Brother Su Ning dug the trap, and we even baited it to attract the wild boars. We were the ones who discovered that the wild boars had fallen into the trap.¡±
¡°We also killed the wild boar and brought it home.¡±
¡°Logically speaking, it¡¯s simr to us going into the mountains to hunt.¡±
¡°But Ms. Lin and her family clearly came here to steal. They failed to obtain the wild boar from the mountains, and now they¡¯re trying to im it based on the rules set by our ancestors.¡±
¡°Let me ask you, Ms. Lin and her family are not qualified to share the pork!¡±
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words, Ms. Lin¡¯spanions began to me her.
¡°We were deceived by you!¡±
¡°How dare you bully them! You¡¯re their aunts! Shame on you!¡±
Feeling humiliated, Ms. Lin departed from the Su Family.
Qin Zhenzhen was pleased. Not everyone from Qian Vige was unreasonable.
But that didn¡¯t mean Ms. Lin and her family could bully her either.
This was a world of reason.
The four Qin brothers divided the lean wild boar meat, which looked incredibly appetizing.
Wild boar meat was known to be more nutritious than that of domestic pigs, and itmanded a higher price in the market.
However, many people were curious about the price.
¡°The wild boar is so substantial, and the meat seems quite robust. What¡¯s the price?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen generously replied, ¡°The vigers won¡¯t charge you too much. If you¡¯re interested in buying, you can have it for 30 percent less than the market price. ¡±
Offering a 30 percent discount would effectively bring the price in line with regr pork.
However, wild boars had a significant amount of lean meat, making it an obvious value for customers.
ording to the original book, Su Bin¡¯s family had a strained rtionship with the Qian Vige. After Su Bin attained power, he refused to assist anyone from the Qian Vige, going as far as relocating his parents¡¯ graves.
His uncle¡¯s family did not receive any benefits, only facing punishment instead.
As a result, the people of Qian Vige were apprehensive about seeking help from Su Bin, fearing humiliation.
The Qian Family¡¯s aversion to outsiders wasrgely influenced by Su Bin and his sister. Su Bin was viewed as a troublemaker who had offended many in the vige. He held himself in high regard and seldom interacted with the vigers.
When Su Qing joined the troupe, she was looked down upon, her social status even lower than that of a poor farmer.
Due to the actions of their uncle¡¯s family, Su Cheng and Su Ning were cautious around the vigers.
In the eyes of most vigers, they were not particrly favored individuals.
These circumstances were the precursors to Su Bin¡¯s dark side.
Qin Zhenzhen saw an opportunity to forge closer connections with the Su Family and the vigers.
Unbeknownst to her, she had already begun saving Su Bin and his family.
The vigers were ted upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s proposition.
Those with money readily produced it to purchase the pork.
¡°Give me 1 kilogram of the most exquisite cuts, ensure they¡¯re expertly sliced!¡±
As the saying goes, the pork should be visually appealing, and funds should be readily avable.
With cash in hand, one could obtain what they desired.
However, the situation was different for those who wished to purchase on credit.
Those without immediate funds began selecting their desired cuts, fearing that the most attractive portions would be imed before they could return.
¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife, I don¡¯t have any money on me right now. I promise to pay youter.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled warmly. ¡°Alright, no problem. Even if we run short on funds, we can put it on credit for now.¡±
The vigers without immediate funds felt encouraged.
¡°We can put it on credit? In that case, I¡¯ll have some wild boar meat too!¡±
¡°The harvest season is approaching, and I won¡¯t be indebted for long. Give me one or two kilograms..¡±
Chapter 71 - 71: Not Moved
Chapter 71: Not Moved
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen nodded with a warm smile. ¡°Okay, okay. We¡¯re from the same vige, I trust you.¡±
This gesture endeared Qin Zhenzhen to the majority of vigers, altering their perception of her.
Everyone praised Su Bin¡¯s wife for her generosity, eloquence,petence, and propriety.
She proved herself to be a responsible sister-inw and a resilient woman who refused to be bullied. She possessed the qualities necessary for building a strong family.
Su Bin was indeed fortunate to have married her.
Considering that people from the same vige had limited purchasing power, it was clear that a 150 kg wild boar couldn¡¯t be sold out within the vige alone.
After having lunch at the Su Family¡¯s residence, the Qin brothers nned to sell the wild boar meat in town.
¡°Zhenzhen, regardless of the sales, we will give you the proceeds. You won¡¯t need to pay a single penny.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded earnestly, ¡°That won¡¯t do. You¡¯ve already spent a day carrying the wild boars, ughtering them, and selling the meat. You deserve to bepensated.¡±
¡°Remember to keep some of the exquisite cuts for yourselves as well. It will serve as a gesture of filial respect towards our parents and grandmother.¡±
Qin Dalong chuckled. ¡°Great, great, great! Our sister truly understands. We¡¯ll certainly reserve some of the wild boar meat for our parents and grandmother, but we won¡¯t charge them.¡±
¡°Working for your sister and still expecting payment? That¡¯s quite the joke!¡±
¡°Furthermore, such opportunities don¡¯te by often. Half the time isn¡¯t much to ask.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen feltpletely at ease entrusting the wild boar meat to her brothers for selling in town. She had full confidence in them.
Su Ning and Su Cheng had no words to express their gratitude. Without Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s intervention, they would have been unable to protect the wild boar. They might not have even received half a kilogram of wild boar meat.
Now, they had enjoyed a satisfying lunch of wild boar meat and pig offal. Qin Zhenzhen even set aside a piece of wild boar meat weighing over 5 kg, suggesting they marinate it and slowly savor it as dried meat.
Thus, even if the proceeds from selling the wild boar were given to Qin Zhenzhen, they had no objections.
In the evening, Qin Zhenzhen prepared arge pot of yam pork bone soup using the wild boar bones. She also nned to fry a te of pig intestines. There was even a bowl of braised pork left, making the dinner truly sumptuous.
However, she hadn¡¯t anticipated the return of Su Bin and Su Ping.
Qin Zhenzhen refrained from questioning them about their whereabouts. They didn¡¯t seem to have borrowed any money, but Su Bin appeared worried about his uncle¡¯s family potentially selling their fields. Upon learning this, they hastily rushed home.
Qin Zhenzhen turned to Su Ning and said, ¡°Go to the backyard and pick some chili. Tonight, we¡¯ll make a dish of twice-cooked pork and another of chili fried meat.¡±
Su Ning cheerfully responded, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be there shortly!¡±
But instead of rushing to pick the chili, Su Ning and Su Cheng took the opportunity to inform their Second Brother and Third Brother about the events of the past few days.
They praised and expressed gratitude towards Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Third Brother, Third Sister-inw is different now!¡±
Upon hearing their words, Su Bin fell into deep contemtion.
Was she truly different from before?
In fact, he had observed subtle changes during his previous visit.
However, he hadn¡¯t expected Qin Zhenzhen to undergo such a significant transformation.
If his siblings were not lying, then Qin Zhenzhen must not be the same person she used to be.
Yet, her physical appearance, voice, and smile had remained unchanged.
It seemed unlikely that she had been reced by someone else.
The most usible exnation was that the plump girl had encountered a mentor who guided her and influenced her transformation.
Regardless of the changes she had undergone, the strategies she employed, or her stroke of luck, he would never allow himself to be swayed by her!
Chapter 72 - 72: Not Easy to Change
Chapter 72: Not Easy to Change
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin¡¯s perspective shifted as he let out a sigh of relief upon hearing that the contract had been redeemed and entrusted to his Fifth Brother for safekeeping.
He couldn¡¯t help but express his happiness, saying, ¡°I have misjudged you,
Third Sister-inw. You are truly a good person!¡± Su Bin nced at him coldly, questioning, ¡°Did you get swayed that easily?¡± His words struck a chord of embarrassment within him.
Just a few days ago, he had confidently dered his intention to help his Third
Brother break off the engagement. And yet, here he was, defending her instead.
Moreover, she was his Third Sister-inw, and his Third Brother was responsible for her well-being.
Su Ning chimed in, saying, ¡°Third Brother, Third Sister-inw is making progress!¡±
Su Bin responded calmly, ¡°I understand.¡±
But he added, ¡°A couple of good moments doesn¡¯t necessarily indicate overall improvement.¡±
With that, Su Bin retreated into the study without uttering another word.
Meanwhile, Su Ning pulled Su Cheng along to harvest vegetables.
Su Ning had a hidden agenda¡ªshe wanted her Third Sister-inw to impress Third Brother. Turning to Qin Zhenzhen, she suggested, ¡°Third Sister-inw, I¡¯m not skilled in making double-cooked pork or stir-frying meat with chili. How about you take charge of tonight¡¯s cooking?¡±
¡°Fifth Brother and I will assist you; you just need to handle the frying.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t question Su Ning¡¯s intentions and agreed with a nod.
¡°Alright.¡±
Her goal was to gain favor with Su Bin, not because she wanted him to like her, but because she aimed to end their rtionship amicably, paving the way for a peaceful breakup.
As the dishes were prepared, the table soon became adorned with a variety of delectable offerings.
Su Ping¡¯s senses were captivated by the enticing aroma of wild boar meat. He cast a nce toward the kitchen, where Qin Zhenzhen stood confidently with a spat in hand. His anticipation grew.
They were all eager to experience Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s culinary prowess. Rumor had it that she cooked like a skilled chef, as their brothers had previously imed. Su Ning rushed to the study and called out to Su Bin, ¡°Third Brother, it¡¯s time to eat!¡±
¡°Understood.¡±
Su Bin closed the book he was engrossed in and rose from his seat.
Unable to contain herself, Su Ning couldn¡¯t help but share, ¡°Third Brother,
Third Sister-inw prepared all the dishes tonight!¡±
Su Bin nced at Su Ning, silently implying that there was no need to emphasize this fact.
Su Ning stuck out her tongue and muttered to herself, ¡°I¡¯m just afraid you¡¯ll be embarrassed and im you¡¯ve never tasted such delicious food before.¡±
As he stepped out of the study andid eyes upon the table adorned with mouthwatering dishes, Su Bin was taken aback.
Noticing everyone¡¯s gaze upon him, he calmly picked up his chopsticks and began savoring each dish, one by one.
With each bite, he couldn¡¯t help but be moved.
They had never expected the vors to be so exquisite!
He had never tasted twice-cooked pork or braised pork before.
No wonder she had such a plump figure¡ªher culinary skills were exceptional!
But so what if she was a talented cook?
He wasn¡¯t someone who merely sought to satisfy his appetite.
Moreover, the humiliation she had inflicted upon him couldn¡¯t be resolved with a few dishes alone.
As he finished each dish, he found himself increasingly motivated.
Fifth Brother and Sixth Sister hadn¡¯t deceived them. Third Sister-inw¡¯s culinary skills were truly exceptional.
She could surpass the abilities of three men and was more than capable of supporting her siblings.
With Third Sister-inw looking after Fifth Brother and Sixth Sister at home, Third Brother could focus on his studies without any worries, while he himself could venture into the outside world with peace of mind.
However, the condition for all this was that Third Brother had to ept Third Sister-inw.
Su Ping stole a nce at Su Bin, fully aware that his brother wouldn¡¯t change his stance so easily.
Unlike him, Third Brother didn¡¯t indulge inrge portions. He only took a small taste of each dish..
Chapter 73 - 73: Redeeming the Jade
Chapter 73: Redeeming the Jade
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After dinner, Su Bin requested Qin Zhenzhen to apany him to the study.
Curiosity stirred within Qin Zhenzhen, wondering if the young man intended to express gratitude for her assistance in redeeming the contract.
If that were the case, perhaps she could bring up the topic of divorce as well.
However, to her surprise, Su Bin pointed to the money on the desk and stated,
¡°This money is for you¡ª12 liang should be sufficient.¡±
His Second Brother had informed him about the deadline imposed by their uncle¡¯s family.
Neither his Second Brother nor himself could borrow such arge sum of money.
Yet Su Bin was determined to prevent their uncles from selling their fields at a low price, as had happened before.
The only option was to pawn the jade pendant for 15 liang.
His n was to use that amount to redeem thend contract and subsequently sell the fields to the buyer, thereby reiming the jade pendant.
He couldn¡¯t bear to part with thest piece of jade left behind by their father.
Selling their family¡¯s fields was also out of the question, but without money, he felt trapped.
He had managed to save some money for the living expenses of his Fifth Brother and Sixth Sister.
However, he needed funds for the uing examination, and the costs were not insignificant.
Firstly, they needed to secure a five-person insurance policy, with each individual contributing 2 liang to engage an agent. Then there were registration fees, examination paper fees, sealing fees, and other expenses. The total expenditure for a Cultivated Talent examination would amount to almost 10 liang.
Ordinary impoverished schrs wouldn¡¯t dare to apply for the Cultivated Talent title without being certain of sess¡ªthey couldn¡¯t afford to lose money.
Su Bin found himself in a simr predicament.
Cultivated Talent examinations took ce only once a year. Although he could have taken the exam at the age of 14, his father had advised him to study for an additional year to ensure sess and avoid wasting 10 liang.
Su Bin¡¯s attempts to dissuade his father had been in vain. However, tragedy struck their family soon after.
The previous year, when Su Bin had finally gathered enough funds to pursue the Cultivated Talent title, he had achieved first ce in the county examination, gaining recognition throughout West Mountain College.
However, during the examination, he fell ill with gastroenteritis after consuming contaminated food. He suffered from severe diarrhea and was left too weak to even stand. It was a close call, and he nearly lost his life, causing him to miss the examination.
This year, Su Bin was determined not to miss any of the three examinations.
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°Did you borrow the money?¡±
Su Bin responded coldly, ¡°That¡¯s none of your business!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen remained unperturbed. ¡°Fine, it¡¯s none of my business. But you should take the money back.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s voice grew colder. ¡°Don¡¯t assume that I¡¯ll ept you as part of my family just because you helped me redeem the contract!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but retort, ¡°I told you before that I don¡¯t want to be part of your family anymore!¡±
¡°I¡¯m assisting your family in redeeming the contract not because I want you to like me. I simply don¡¯t want to see your brother and sister deprived of their basic needs without the fields!¡±
Su Bin¡¯s pride took a hit, but he raised his head defiantly. ¡°I couldn¡¯t care less about your money!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen cursed inwardly¡ªthis young man was suffering due to his reputation!
ording to the book, he once faced a predicament and pawned the jade. However, the Madam of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion had schemed against him and acquired the jade, leaving him without even thest token.
This time, if her assumptions were correct, he must have pawned the jade again.
She needed to prevent the Madam of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion from taking away the jade.
In an effort to persuade Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen tried to maintain herposure.
¡°You may not need my money, but you must confront reality.¡±
¡°If the money came from pawning your jade, I strongly suggest you retrieve the jade..¡±
Chapter 74 - 74: Sharing Money
Chapter 74: Sharing Money
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin maintained a calm facade, but inwardly, he felt a sense of unease.
How did she know that he had retrieved the jade?
Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°I heard from your siblings that your Second Brother¡¯s jade has already been sold. You wouldn¡¯t want to sell your own jade, would you?¡±
¡°My brother mentioned that the pawnshop in town has a questionable reputation. Whenever theye across valuable items, they try to deceive their customers.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words were clear, and Su Bin understood what she was implying.
Even if he were to sell the fields, he couldn¡¯t sell them all at once. If he dyed the process for a few months, he could continue to generate profits during that time, and the pawnshop might even sell his jade.
Seeing Su Bin¡¯s hesitation, Qin Zhenzhen made another attempt.
¡°Furthermore, I must inform you that I wasn¡¯t the only one who contributed to redeeming the contract. Your siblings and I earned the money by running a stall. ¡±
¡°As for the wild boar today, he helped set the traps and made a contribution as well. Once we sell the wild boar meat, we¡¯ll have a substantial amount of money. If you¡¯re short on funds for the examination, I can lend you some.¡±
¡°You don¡¯t have to pawn the jade unless it¡¯s absolutely necessary.¡±
¡°You should think carefully about what you want to do.¡±
With those words, Qin Zhenzhen left the study.
Su Bin remained silent until Qin Zhenzhen had returned to her own room.
Su Ning, who had been listening outside the study, whispered, ¡°Third Brother, did you really consider pawning the jade?¡±
Still, Su Bin said nothing.
Su Ning burst into tears. ¡°Third Brother, that¡¯s the only memento our father left behind. Are you nning to sell it?¡±
Annoyed, Su Bin reassured his sister, ¡°I promise you, I will not sell the jade!¡±
Su Ning smiled warmly. ¡°I trust you, Third Brother!¡±
Unlike their Second Brother, he was different.
Blushing with a mix of embarrassment and determination, he retreated to his own room.
If a simr situation arose again, he would never consider selling the jade.
He had sold it before because he was desperate for money, wanting to treat his friends to meals and drinks.
Reflecting on it now, he realized what a foolish decision it had been.
But his brother and sister had never med him for it. They still regarded him as their elder brother, especially his sister, who held great expectations for him.
Perhaps he should consider how to fulfill the role of a good Second Brother.
That night, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s Elder Brother and Fourth Brother personally delivered the money to the Su Family.
Aside from the amount Qin Zhenzhen had forced her Elder Brother to contribute, she had a total of 5-5 liang.
In order to avoid any conflicts between her Elder Brother and Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen hurriedly sent them home.
¡°Elder Brother, Fourth Brother, as I mentioned before, we should wait until he bes a Cultivated Talent,¡± Qin Zhenzhen reminded them.
She then proceeded to divide the money.
She handed him one liang first. ¡°You set up the traps in the mountains, so consider this as payment.¡±
He initially refused to ept the money.
¡°I¡¯ll leave the money with you. I heard from Fifth Brother that you bought all the rice for the family. You¡¯ll need it to take care of your brother and sister at home, and you¡¯ll require money in the future.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was genuinely surprised by his selflessness.
If that was what he truly believed, then he was being sincere.
However, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t harbor any positive feelings toward him. She responded calmly, ¡°You can give it to me if you want to retrieve the contract.¡± Qin Zhenzhen proceeded to divide the money into three equal portions.
¡°The three of us discovered and captured the wild boar together. We guarded it as a team, so we will split the money equally, with each of us receiving half..¡±
Chapter 75 - 75: Not Completely Stubborn
Chapter 75: Not Completely Stubborn
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ning and Su Cheng waved their hands in refusal.
¡°Third Sister-inw, the money is yours. We don¡¯t want it! Without your help, we wouldn¡¯t have been able to defend the wild boar!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and responded, ¡°I divided the money so clearly because I want your Third Brother to understand that I¡¯m not the sole contributor for redeeming the contract, and he doesn¡¯t need to repay me.¡±
Though her voice wasn¡¯t loud, it carried to the study.
Su Bin¡¯s face revealed a mix ofplex emotions. He couldn¡¯t focus on the book in his hands any longer.
Did she do this because she didn¡¯t want him to sell the jade?
Was it truly not part of a new strategy?
Regardless, when he returned to town, he intended to retrieve the jade.
Qin Zhenzhen handed all the money to Su Ning.
¡°Ask your Third Brother if he has enough money for the examination. If he doesn¡¯t, you can use it for now.¡±
Happily, Su Ning carried the money to the study.
Before she could say anything, Su Bin pushed her away. ¡°Return the money to her. Third Brother has enough funds for the examination!¡±
He didn¡¯t want to ept Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s assistance in redeeming the contract. If he needed her to pay for the examination, he would rather forgo taking it this year.
Early the next morning, Qin Zhenzhen woke up to find that Su Bin had already left for the town.
He hadn¡¯t taken the money, yet he hadn¡¯t insisted on returning it either. It appeared that he had listened to her advice.
This boy wasn¡¯tpletely stubborn.
It seemed like her n was working out well. She intended to make him owe her a favor until his animosity towards her family was resolved.
They went their separate ways.
Su Bin would y the role of the viin, while she would portray the wealthy girl.
Su Ning asked, ¡°Third Sister-inw, are we still going to dig for yams today?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Yes!¡±
Su Ning and Su Cheng chimed in, ¡°We¡¯lle with you!¡±
If they were lucky enough to apany Third Sister-inw, they might encounter another wild boar like the previous day, or perhaps even a wild hare today!
Su Cheng had already prepared the seedlings.
However, Qin Zhenzhen had decided not to use the spiritual water to lure animals into traps. It was enough as it was.
But she didn¡¯t object to Su Cheng bringing the sweet potato seedlings.
After all, the leaves she gathered could entice wild boars into the pit, and the sweet potato seedlings were undeniably more enticing.
Su Bin pondered for a moment and decided to join them on the mountain.
He also wanted to learn about yams.
Qin Zhenzhen was a plump girl, and his Fifth Brother and Sixth Sister were just children. How many yams could they gather?
He wanted to see if he could assist her.
In his own way, he was expressing gratitude to Qin Zhenzhen for retrieving the contract for him.
As they made their way up the mountain, Qin Zhenzhen noticed a few boys from the vige who were carrying sweet potato seedlings, heading up as well.
Undoubtedly, those boys must have had the same idea as Su Cheng¡ªto use sweet potato seedlings to lure animals into the pit.
The news of Qin Zhenzhen using leaves to entice wild boars had spread throughout the entire vige.
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled to herself but didn¡¯t oppose them.
They could give it a try. If they failed a few times, they would likely stop.
If luck was on their side, they might even manage to attract wild rabbits.
However, Qin Zhenzhen had no intention of using the spiritual water to lure animals.
Instead, she nned to make them believe that she had simply been fortunate enough to attract a wild boar the previous day.
Once they reached the mountains, Su Cheng ced the sweet potato seedlings in the traps and began gathering firewood.
After collecting four bundles of firewood, he joined Qin Zhenzhen to dig for yams.
Winter was approaching, and soon the mountains would be nketed with heavy snow. It was crucial to gather enough firewood during this time.
Su Cheng had heard from his sister that digging yams was no easy task. Even after half a day¡¯s effort, they would only fill one basket to bring home. Therefore, he and his sister didn¡¯t need to carry yams back for Third
Sister-inw..
Chapter 76 - 76: Your Third Brother’s Decision
Chapter 76: Your Third Brother¡¯s Decision
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ning and Qin Zhenzhen went directly to the yam field.
Recalling what his sister said to him, Su Cheng smiled.
Before he left, Su Ning reminded him. ¡°Fifth Brother,e and pick yam beans with me! ¡±
¡°The yam beans we ate this morning were steamed and tasty, better than sweet potatoes.¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw also said that she is going to make yam bean candied haws for us tonight. It will definitely be delicious!¡±
The candied hawthorns sold on the market were luxurious things for rich children. Su Cheng remembered that his parents had the chance to eat such things when they were alive.
She had not expected that her Third Sister-inw knew how to make this.
Then they were going to get some more home.
So Su Cheng picked up the firewood even faster.
But he saw his Second Brother.
He knew that Qin Zhenzhen was near the trap he had set previously.
Su Cheng was very surprised. ¡°Second Brother, what are you doing here? Are you hunting in the mountains?¡±
Su Ping shook his head. ¡°Second Brother, help me with the firewood. It is winter soon, and the firewood is more important than the hunting¡¡± More importantly, he could not hunt animals.
He used to think that he was very good at shooting wild roosters.
Although the probability of him hitting a wild rooster was very small, he was still proud of it. He bragged about it in front of his friends, telling them how good his archery was.
But right now, he found himself a little funny.
Third Sister-inw killed one wild boar and drove away four or five men with a stick, but she did not brag to the vigers.
He was a man, what was he so proud of?
Hearing that, Su Cheng smiled happily. ¡°I put sweet potato seedlings in the trap. If we are lucky, we can lure wild rabbits to jump down and eat them!¡±
¡°Even if Second Brother doesn¡¯t hunt, we still have meat to eat!¡±
¡°Yeah.¡±
He felt a bit saddened when he realized that he was not as good as that chubby girl.
¡°You are right. I am the most useless person in the family. Even if I go into the mountains, you might not have any meat to eat.¡±
¡°But when I did not go into the mountains yesterday, you also hunted a big wild boar.¡±
Su Cheng consoled his second brother. ¡°Second Brother, don¡¯t say that. You are strong and you know martial arts. You are the one who dug the wild boar trap, how can you be the most useless one in the family?¡±
¡°We got the wild boar yesterday because of Third Sister-inw. That is why we are so lucky.¡±
Su Cheng did not say anything more. He climbed onto the tree and cut off the dry twigs, whilst Su Cheng cleaned up the mess.
In this way, they were in a double-time speed.
Soon, Su Cheng tied up six bundles of dry firewood.
Second Brother picked the bigger ones, and he and his sister picked the smaller ones.
Su Cheng asked quietly, ¡°Second Brother, can you tell Third Brother that Third Sister-inw is actually a very nice person¡¡¯
Like his sister, he did not want his Third Sister-inw to leave.
Su Ping shook his head. ¡°He is the only one who can make the decision.¡± Su Cheng had nothing to say.
Second Brother was right. Only he could make the decision for Third Brother. Before helping Qin Zhenzhen to dig yams, Su Cheng went to check up the trap
first.
But apart from the sweet potato seedlings, there were no other animals in the trap.
Seeing the dried wild boar blood in the trap, he could not help but ask Su Cheng, ¡°How did your Third Sister-inw kill the wild boar?¡±
Su Cheng recounted the scene vividly.
He fell into deep thought.
Did Qin Zhenzhen really learn martial arts?
Qin Zhenzhen was surprised. ¡°You are here to hunt?¡±
Su Cheng answered for his Second Brother. ¡°My Second Brother is here to pick firewood and help to dig yams..¡±
Chapter 77 - 77: Eaten
Chapter 77: Eaten
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
With his help, the digging of yams became much faster.
He soon understood the key parts about digging yams. He was an adult man with great strength and endurance. He should be much faster than Qin
Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen only had one iron picker with her, so she went to pick yam beans.
They ate lunch in the mountains too.
Under the shade of the tree, they sat together, talking andughing, eating cakes and steamed yam beans.
Su Cheng and Su Ning felt so happy and satisfied. They hoped that they could live like this forever.
But Third Brother¡¯s attitude towards Third Sister-inw had not yet changed.
He suddenly felt that it was not a bad thing for a family to live together like this.
If his future wife could be like Third Sister-inw, who could keep his brother and sister fed, and the whole family could talk andugh, he would be very satisfied.
But he was not as good-looking as his Third Brother, who was very popr among girls.
He was not as lucky as his Third Brother to have a girl like Third Sister-inw, who forced him to marry her.
In order to see if there were any wild rabbits in the trap, Su Cheng had already gone to fetch water twice.
Su Ningughed. ¡°Fifth Brother, you have to stay calm. We can check it out when we are done with work. Maybe there will be one!¡±
Su Cheng smiled too. ¡°Sixth Sister, you are right. I was too anxious. If a wild rabbit falls into the trap, it won¡¯t be able to escape. I don¡¯t need to go and check it out all the time.¡±
The three of them picked the yam beans quickly. When they were about to go home, they had already picked a lot of baskets.
Qin Zhenzhen looked at the pile of yams, which weighed more than 50 KG. She started to get worried.
She tied the long yam roots into two bundles with thick vines and carried them away easily.
Su Cheng said, ¡°Second Brother, don¡¯t pick the firewood, just bring the yams home.¡±
But Su Ping said, ¡°Tie the yam roots into my two bundles of dry woods, and I will pick them home together.¡±
¡°I did try to pick 100 KG.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen said nothing, and Su Ning and Su Cheng did not object. Their Second Brother was very strong.
When they returned to the vige, it was getting dark, and no one noticed that they had brought back so many yams and yam beans.
The following day, they went to dig yams again.
They came home early, and the vigers stopped them. ¡°What are you digging this for? Is it edible?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°This is called yam. It is edible and has many benefits.¡± Then she narrated the benefits of eating yams.
Some vigers did not believe that. ¡°Can it really be eaten? If it can be eaten, why didn¡¯t our ancestors notice it?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen exined. ¡°Yams are medicinal herbs first, and then ingredients. They are not everywhere, so it is not strange that you don¡¯t know that they can be eaten.¡±
¡°But they are edible.¡±
Some people did not believe that. Some even tried to persuade Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°As the saying goes, medicine is 30% poisonous. Su Bin¡¯s wife, you should stay calm. Don¡¯t feed it to the family, and don¡¯t ask them to dig it out for you.¡± ¡°If the poison is too strong, we will be in trouble if we die!¡±
Someone else confirmed. ¡°I know that even animals don¡¯t dare to eat them. They must be poisonous.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was speechless. She had told everyone that yams could be eaten, but she was still suspected that she was causing trouble around.
She had wanted to exin that yams were like taros. Some people would have allergies when they came into contact with the outer surface, and so would animals. That might be one reason why animals did not eat them.
But she felt that there was no need to exin at the moment..
Chapter 78 - 78: Selling to County
Chapter 78: Selling to County
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Time would reveal whether yams posed a potential danger to people.
Qin Zhenzhen saw no point in wasting her breath.
Su Ning and Su Cheng remained unfazed, showing no concern about the possibility of poisonous yams.
For three consecutive days, they consumed yam beans without any issues. Qin Zhenzhen even prepared lean meat soup using yam roots for them.
Qin Zhenzhen joined them in consuming the yams, experiencing no adverse effects. Her energy levels remained high.
On the third day, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning decided to visit the local pharmacies.
Since the owner of the pharmacies was acquainted with Su Bin¡¯s father, Qin Zhenzhen wished to inquire if they epted sundried yams.
When they couldn¡¯t find the owner, they approached the pharmacy manager instead. Qin Zhenzhen presented him with slices of sundried yams and yam beans.
Directly questioning, she asked, ¡°Uncle Lin, do you buy these items?¡±
Manager Lin¡¯s eyes lit up, and he nodded, saying, ¡°We can buy the yams, but not the yam beans. Where did you obtain these?¡±
Upon hearing that they could sell them and make money, Su Ning couldn¡¯t contain her excitement and hastily replied, ¡°We found them in the mountains
behind our vige! There are plenty ot them!¡±
He tugged at her sister, understanding what her younger brother meant.
Su Ning added, ¡°However, digging them up is quite challenging. The roots are deeply buried. ¡±
¡°We have to wash and slice them, soak them in vinegar and salt, and then sundry them before they resemble this. It requires a lot of effort.¡±
Manager Lin chuckled, saying, ¡°You¡¯re quite clever. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll offer you a fair price.¡±
¡°But we don¡¯t have a lot to sell,¡± Su Ning replied, sounding somewhat disappointed.
This news left Manager Lin slightly disheartened. He had been hoping to tap into his newfound strength in digging yam roots and earn some money for his siblings. He had envisioned a better life ahead.
However, Manager Lin continued, ¡°If you have arge quantity, you can sell it to the county.¡±
¡°The county¡¯s major pharmacy is involved in the herbal business as well. They have numerous branches, including one in the capital.¡¯
¡°If you need it, I can provide you with a rmendation letter.¡±
Su Ping smiled gratefully and replied, ¡°Thank you, Uncle Lin, but we have enough for now.¡±
Curiosity got the better of Manager Lin, and he asked, ¡°Who taught you how to sundry yams?¡±
He knew that if yam slices were not soaked in vinegar and salt for a certain period, they would undoubtedly turn ck. Such knowledge was typically possessed only by pharmaceutical workshops. How could they be aware of it? Quickly thinking on her feet, Su Ning responded, ¡°It was taught to us by our sister-inw.¡±
Manager Lin turned his attention to Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen had no choice but to fabricate a lie, saying, ¡°I read about it in books.¡±
To show her gratitude to Manager Lin, Qin Zhenzhen offered him the yam beans.
Manager Lin was delighted and promptly wrote the rmendation letter on the spot.
As they walked out of the pharmacy, both parties were filled with joy.
Manager Lin offered them a price of 30 wen for 500 grams of yams.
It was a favorable price, as 500 grams of yams could be exchanged for 1.5 kilograms of rice.
The entire family could dig up 50 kilograms of yams in a day, which, after sundrying, would amount to 25 kilograms. Earning one and a half liang was indeed a straightforward task.
However, the pharmacies only required 100 kilograms of yams.
They realized they needed to find a way to sell the remaining yams within the town.
Qin Zhenzhen had a different perspective on the matter.
She didn¡¯t want to exhaust herself by venturing away from home to sell the yams elsewhere.
Instead, she came up with an idea. She wanted to act as the intermediary, buying the yams and earning a profit from the price difference.
In doing so, she could also assist individuals from nearby viges, providing them with an additional means to earn money..
Chapter 79 - 79: Yam Beans
Chapter 79: Yam Beans
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen shared her perspective with the others.
Su Ping couldn¡¯tprehend. ¡°Why do we need everyone to be involved in the digging? We can handle it ourselves, right? I have the strength!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen questioned him in return. ¡°Yes, you are strong, but do you have the time? When your friends ask you to go out, will you still be willing to stay at home and dig yams?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s question left him speechless.
He was known for his loyalty. If a friend asked for his assistance, he would even prioritize them over his own siblings, let alone digging yams.
Qin Zhenzhen inwardly sighed.
As the saying goes, the mountains and rivers may be easy to change, but one¡¯s nature is not. He couldn¡¯t alter his personality of prioritizing his own interests over the family¡¯s.
Despite him digging yams for her these past few days, his mind was still preupied with his own career aspirations.
Qin Zhenzhen had no intention of saving him, even if he ended up bing the leader of bandits and engaging in theft.
Her main focus was to prevent the Qin Family and the Su Family from bing enemies. She was determined to work hard and assist the Su Family.
This way, the Qin Family wouldn¡¯t face annihtion.
Qin Zhenzhen added, ¡°Moreover, I have other means of earning money.¡±
Su Ning tugged at her Second Brother¡¯s sleeves and whispered softly, ¡°Second Brother, Third Sister-inw is right. She wants to sell seasonings, which can provide us with a faster source of ie. We can even earn money more quickly by setting up a stall to sell pancakes, rather than solely relying on digging yams. ¡±
This only deepened his disappointment.
In just a few days, Qin Zhenzhen had already surpassed his position within the family.
In the hearts of his siblings, his Third Sister-inw held greater importance than himself, their Second Brother.
If this went on, she might even lose her Third Brother¡¯s position.
That made him feel better.
Before the yam market opened up, Qin Zhenzhen kept the fact that yams could be sold for money a secret from the vigers.
What if the town pharmacies refused to ept them?
They couldn¡¯t distribute the entire 100 kilograms to the vigers.
There simply wasn¡¯t enough to share.
However, the yams they had gathered didn¡¯t even amount to 100 kilograms. So Su Ping took it upon himself to continue digging the yams alone, while Qin Zhenzhen, together with Su Ning and Su Cheng, washed and dried the yams.
Qin Zhenzhen even began experimenting with making seasonings. The seasonings had a savory taste and resembled the seasoning powder packets found in modern instant noodles.
The ingredients were simr as well.
She dried and ground shrimp shells to create a powder,bined it with small amounts of salt and sugar, which were also ground. She also included stir-fried rice noodles, and most importantly, spirit water.
She put considerable effort into grinding all the ingredients into a fine powder, but she was determined enough to aplish the task.
She contemted purchasing a small hand-turned grinding tool to producerger quantities of seasoning.
Once the seasoning was ready, she stored it in a sealed jar to prevent moisture from affecting its quality.
Qin Zhenzhen had already tasted the seasoning. While it wasn¡¯t as good as adding spirit water directly, it still had a decent effect in enhancing the vor.
She nned to wrap the seasonings in paper and sell them for 10 wen.
If she bought a substantial amount, she might even consider including a small sealed porcin bottle as an additional option.
Qin Zhenzhen remained true to her word. She steamed a batch of yam beans and enlisted the help of Su Ning and the others to string the ripe yam beans onto bamboo sticks.
Next, Qin Zhenzhen filled a pot with water, added an appropriate amount of malt sugar, and boiled it into a syrup.
Once the syrup reached the desired consistency, they would dip the yam beans into the pot, coating them with the sugary syrup.
In this way, they transformed into delectable sugar-coated yam beans, resembling traditional candied haws.
After Su Ning and Su Cheng had a taste, their faces lit up with delight.
The yam candied haws proved to be even more delicious than hawthorns.
They decided to bring some to their grandmother first.
Their grandmother had always cared for them.
However, due to her deteriorating eyesight and fragile health, she was no longer able to provide the same level of care..
Chapter 80 - 80: Seasoning
Chapter 80: Seasoning
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In town, it was customary for there to be a market every three days, and it would take four days for the market toplete its cycle.
Since Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s arrival in this world, it was already the third market day.
On the first market day, she had set up a stall with Su Ning and Su Cheng to sell pancakes.
However, on the second market day, they didn¡¯t continue selling pancakes because they needed to focus on digging yams and sun-drying them.
Since Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s pancakes had gained considerable poprity on the previous market day, some individuals became jealous and attempted to imitate her pancakes to sell.
However, these imitations fell short inparison to the taste of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s original pancakes.
Consequently, many people approached Qin Dalong and his brother, inquiring, ¡°Why isn¡¯t your sister selling pancakes?¡±
Qin Dalong ryed what Qin Zhenzhen had told him.
¡°My sister mentioned that the reason her pancakes taste so good is because she incorporates a special seasoning into them.¡±
¡°This seasoning has the ability to enhance the freshness of any dish it is used in.¡±
¡°She isn¡¯t selling pancakes because she wants to focus on making this seasoning.¡±
The exnation made sense to the curious individuals.
They understood that when they had limited resources, simply adding salt to their dishes would suffice. It was only the affluent individuals who would invest in using various seasonings during cooking.
They continued their questioning.
¡°Isn¡¯t itborious to make this seasoning?¡±
¡°Considering the time your sister invests in making it, does she produce a significant quantity?¡±
¡°Is she nning to sell the seasonings?¡±
Qin Dalong chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right. My sister genuinely wants to sell affordable seasonings. She believes that good things should be shared.¡±
The curious individuals responded, voicing their concern, ¡°That sounds wonderful, but will the seasonings be expensive?¡±
¡°We won¡¯t be able to afford them if they¡¯re too costly. If they¡¯re reasonably priced, we can definitely consider it.¡±
Qin Dalongughed reassuringly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my sister assures me that they will be very affordable!¡±
¡°For real? You can¡¯t deceive us!¡±
It was amon belief that only pce chefs or prestigious restaurants could create high-quality seasonings, which consequently made them quite expensive.
Qin Dalong ced his hand on his chest and made a solemn promise.
¡°Why would I lie to you? I, Qin Dalong, never lie. But let the truth speak for itself. If you find the seasonings to be reasonably priced, we would appreciate your support. If you believe they¡¯re expensive, we¡¯ll drop the idea altogether.¡± On the third market day, Qin Zhenzhen and herpanions continued selling pancakes, yams, and yam bean candied haws.
However, this time, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t intend to make as many pancakes. Selling the yam bean candied haws and vegetable pancakes served as secondary objectives. Her primary focus was on selling the seasonings.
With Qin Dalong¡¯s assistance in advertising, a crowd quickly gathered around their stall as soon as they set it up.
Qin Zhenzhen decided to be even more generous this time. She sliced the pancakes into small pieces and offered them to the onlookers to taste.
She also shared valuable information about the price of the seasonings, rmended usage quantities, and storage instructions.
¡°Take a look, it only costs 10 wen, and one package can be used up to 30 times.
That means you can use it three times for just 1 wen.¡±
¡°It¡¯s incredibly easy to store. Just keep it in a dry ce, away from moisture. If it¡¯s a rainy day, simply store it in a sealed jar.¡±
¡°And even if it identally gets wet and you forget to store it properly, it can still be used as long as itsts for a while.¡±
Hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s instructions, the guests began discussing among themselves.
¡°This is amazing. The pancakes here are identical to the ones elsewhere, but they taste so much better.¡±
¡°There¡¯s simply noparison!¡±
¡°Could her seasonings truly be that magical?¡±
Chapter 81 - 81: Treat Them Better
Chapter 81: Treat Them Better
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Isn¡¯t it amazing? Let¡¯s buy it and give it a try!¡± ¡°Yes, it¡¯s quite reasonably priced.¡¯
¡°What if we all chip in and buy a pack together?¡±
¡°Sure, the three of us will buy a pack together.¡±
While they were still deliberating, Third Aunt-inw approached and purchased 20 pancakes. She squeezed in and eximed, ¡°Sister Qin, give me a packet of seasonings!¡±
¡°I¡¯m going to use the seasonings to make breakfast at home. If they¡¯re truly delicious, I¡¯ll buy ten packets in one go!¡± ¡°Alright, thank you, Third Aunt-inw!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen epted the money and handed her a bag of seasonings.
Before Third Aunt-inw left, she jokingly remarked to the others, ¡°Don¡¯t think I¡¯m doing this for your sake! I¡¯m telling you, I¡¯m not!¡±
Everyone burst intoughter.
Another man stepped forward and pulled out money. ¡°Give me a bag of seasonings.¡±
Someone recognized him and asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you the owner of the porridge shop? Are you nning to use the seasonings in your porridge?¡±
The man nodded and replied, ¡°Yes, if you want to taste it,e to my porridge shop. ¡±
Their porridge offerings ranged from expensive to affordable.
They served individual portions of porridge cooked in a small pot, with fresh meat rolled into it after seasoning. This option was rtively expensive, priced at 15 wen per pot.
Therge pot of porridge, made with pig bones and slightly superior to in porridge, was sold at a more affordable price of 2 wen per bowl.
Someone visited the porridge shop, but all the customers who tasted the porridge returned and immediately bought Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s seasonings without hesitation.
Even Third Aunt-inw made aeback, rushing over to ensure she didn¡¯t miss out on the seasonings. She shouted from a distance, ¡°Qin Dalong, tell your sister to save 10 packs for me!¡±
Qin Dalong chuckled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, they¡¯re not sold out yet!¡±
Third Aunt-inw happily purchased 10 packets of seasonings and said, ¡°We should share good things! I¡¯ll have my rtives try one packet.¡±
Another person chimed in, ¡°By the way, Qin Family girl, will you always sell seasonings like this?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Yes, I n to continue selling these seasonings for a long time. Even if I¡¯m not personally at the stall, I¡¯ll have my brother sell them on my behalf.¡±
Third Aunt-inw felt reassured and said, ¡°That¡¯s great! I¡¯ll save some for myself in case I need themter.¡±
At this point, more and more people flocked to buy the seasonings.
The novelty and affordability of the product sparked an unprecedented desire to purchase among the customers.
Soon, hundreds of bags of seasonings were sold out.
Those who missed out on buying were filled with regret.
Qin Zhenzhen happily assured them, ¡°We will definitely have more in stock for the next market day!¡±
In the following days, Qin Zhenzhen nned to produce arge quantity of seasonings.
After the seasonings sold out, the remaining yam bean candied haws quickly followed suit. Qin Zhenzhen decided to stop frying more pancakes.
She patted Su Ning¡¯s shoulders and addressed the siblings, ¡°I¡¯ll take you shopping and see what you want to buy. I¡¯ll get it for you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s initial intention was to make the Su Family indebted to her, so that she could establish a favorable rtionship with them.
However, after spending numerous days with her brother and sister, Qin Zhenzhen realized that they were not bad people. In fact, they had been helping her selflessly, without expecting anything in return.
This realization made her determined to treat them better.
But when Qin Zhenzhen offered to take them shopping, Su Ning and Su Cheng responded in unison, ¡°We have nothing to buy.¡±
Their greatest desire was not for material possessions but rather to have three meals a day and asional meat to eat.
Now, both of these desires had been fulfilled, and they were genuinely content and satisfied..
Chapter 82 - 82: Deserved
Chapter 82: Deserved
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ning and Su Cheng initially assumed that Qin Zhenzhen was simply nning to buy them some snacks. However, their expectations were surpassed when Qin Zhenzhen pulled Su Ning aside and said, ¡°Then I will buy clothes for you first.¡±
¡°What?¡± Su Ning and Su Cheng were both taken aback.
Children from impoverished families could only hope for new clothes during the New Year. Some families were so destitute that they couldn¡¯t even afford new clothes for the New Year celebration.
Su Ning and Su Cheng had never had new clothes for the New Year.
A child without a mother was considered insignificant, and a child without both parents was regarded as even less than that.
Su Cheng¡¯s clothes were hand-me-downs from his older brothers, and Su Ning¡¯s clothes were previously worn by her elder sister. They were worn-out and patched up.
¡°Third Sister-inw, buying clothes costs a lot of money¡¡±
Although Su Ning longed for new clothes, she still felt the need to remind Qin Zhenzhen of the expense.
Qin Zhenzhen generously replied, ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about not having enough money. We can earn more once we¡¯re done. We have multiple ways to make money.¡±
¡°Girls should be well-dressed, and boys should be well-dressed too.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen eagerly took Su Ning to buy clothes, with Su Cheng quietly trailing behind them.
He felt a rush of excitement at the thought of having new clothes. It wasn¡¯t even the New Year, yet his Third Sister-inw was buying clothes for them. It filled him with immense happiness.
However, it also felt somewhat unreal.
He hadn¡¯t experienced such joy for a long time since his parents passed away.
While Su Ning and Su Cheng were busy trying on clothes at the garment store, Su Cheng, who had been following them, quietly turned around and left.
Su Ping didn¡¯t go up the mountain that day, nor did hee to assist Qin Zhenzhen and the others.
Qin Zhenzhen had made it clear that she only required the assistance of Su Ning and Su Cheng, not arge group of people.
Su Ping could discern that his Third Sister-inw was deliberately excluding him.
She was willing to treat his brother and sister well, but she didn¡¯t want to have any further interactions with him.
Perhaps that¡¯s why he had wanted to fight with her brothers the other day¡ª because he had been defending his own brother.
As he observed Qin Zhenzhen selling seasonings, pancakes, yams, and candied haws, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a deep sense of shame.
He was their second brother and the eldest son of the Su Family, yet he had never bought any clothes for his brother and sister.
He realized that he needed to take action.
He decided to head into the mountains and dig yams.
He made up his mind to purchase a new set of clothes for his brothers and sister as a gesture of love and care.
Qin Zhenzhen used all the money earned from selling the seasonings to purchase two sets of clothes for Su Ning and Su Cheng respectively. The siblings couldn¡¯t believe their luck as they returned home, clutching their new clothes and feeling like they were in a dream.
As they made their way back to the vige, they encountered a group of gossiping women. Eager for information, they bombarded Su Ning with questions. ¡°What are you holding? New clothes? Whose new clothes are they?¡±
Su Ning answered honestly, ¡°Our Third Sister-inw bought us two sets of new clothes each.¡±
The women were taken aback. ¡°It¡¯s not even the New Year, why would she buy them new clothes, and two sets at that?¡±
Even if she wanted to curry favor with Su Bin¡¯s brother and sister, there was no need to spend so much money!
Qin Zhenzhen spoke frankly, ¡°I buy them new clothes with the money I earn.
They have helped me tremendously, and they deserve it.¡±
The vigers couldn¡¯t help but shower in Zhenzhen with praise.
However, amid the des, some couldn¡¯t help but feel a tinge of jealousy.
Why weren¡¯t they as fortunate as Qin Zhenzhen?
Why hadn¡¯t they encountered any experts who could teach them how to create and sell sought-after seasonings?
News of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sessful seasoning venture had already spread throughout the vige, creating a buzz of excitement and intrigue..
Chapter 83 - 83: A Life in Dream
Chapter 83: A Life in Dream
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The other children felt a twinge of envy as they saw Su Ning and Su Cheng unting their new clothes.
They yearned to have a sister-inw like Qin Zhenzhen!
They were even willing to do the same work that Su Ning and Su Cheng did. After all, why were they being treated differently when they were all doing the same tasks?
Back at home, Su Ning busily took charge of cooking. ¡°Third Sister-inw, take a break. I¡¯ll handle lunch today.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had left some seasonings at home, and she had even bought pork and pork bones. So Su Ning intended to showcase her cooking skills.
Meanwhile, Su Cheng ventured into the backyard to gather vegetables.
Qin Zhenzhen, on the other hand, didn¡¯t idle around either. She carried the yam roots she had dug up the previous day to the backyard pool to wash them.
After the meal, Qin Zhenzhen began drying shrimp shells and grinding them into powder using a small stone mill. Su Ning assisted her, while Su Cheng cut yams in the yard.
Soon, Su Cheng approached Qin Zhenzhen and said, ¡°Third Sister-inw, your Fourth Brother is here.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found it peculiar. What was Fourth Brother doing here?
On market day, Eldest Brother ughtered a pig, and Second Brother and Third
Brother jointly dealt with a bull. By the time she lett the town, the pork and beef were almostpletely sold out.
Eldest Sister-inw, Second Sister-inw, and Fourth Brother hadn¡¯t participated in selling meat at the polder since they were upied with farm work.
At this point, Eldest Brother and the others should have finished selling meat and returned home.
So why did Fourth Brothere to her instead of tending to the farm?
Qin Zhenzhen exited the kitchen and found Qin Silong waiting for her in the living room.
¡°Zhenzhen¡¡±
Qin Silong¡¯s face disyed a mix of sadness, guilt, and worry. His emotions wereplex and difficult to decipher. Sensing his troubled state, Qin
Zhenzhen directly inquired, ¡°Fourth Brother, is something wrong at home?¡±
Shaking his head, Qin Silong responded, ¡°I¡¯m fine at home.¡±
Relieved, Qin Zhenzhen let out a sigh and pressed further, ¡°Then why do you look so troubled? Did something happen to you personally?¡±
She tried to recall the events from the book. Before Qin Silong joined the army, nothing significant urred.
Qin Silong¡¯s expression became even more intricate.
¡°Zhenzhen, can we talk privately?¡±
Growing increasingly confused, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°What is it?¡±
Approaching Qin Zhenzhen, Qin Silong whispered, ¡°Have you had a long dream recently?¡±
Startled, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°What do you mean?¡±
Was it possible that Qin Silong already suspected her true identity?
Had their grandmother disclosed the truth to him?
That didn¡¯t make sense. If it was their grandmother who had revealed everything, he wouldn¡¯t be asking about her dreams. He would have questioned her directly about her true identity!
Qin Zhenzhenposed herself, realizing that as long as she didn¡¯t admit to recing their sister, no one would ever discover the truth.
She had not only taken over her sister¡¯s body but also inherited her sister¡¯s memories. How could she expose that?
Qin Silong led Qin Zhenzhen to the study and closed the door, speaking in a hushed voice. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t had those vivid dreams, how would you know so much?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen possessed knowledge and skills in cooking and making seasonings. Additionally, she had reached a sudden realization and made the decision to divorce Su Bin.
Attempting to exin, Qin Zhenzhen began, ¡°Didn¡¯t I mention that someone taught me how to make seasonings¡¡±
Before she could finish her sentence, Qin Silong interrupted her, warning, ¡°Zhenzhen, don¡¯t lie to Fourth Brother because he also had a vivid dream!¡± Qin Zhenzhen was once again taken aback. ¡°What kind of dream did you have?¡±
Qin Silong locked eyes with Qin Zhenzhen and replied, ¡°I lived through my entire life in that dream, until I met a tragic end!¡±
¡°What?¡± Qin Zhenzhen nearly stumbled backward.
Could it be that Qin Silong had dreamt about his past life?
Chapter 84 - 84: How Should She Respond
Chapter 84: How Should She Respond
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong took a step closer, urging Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Zhenzhen, tell Fourth Brother, did you have the same dream?¡±
Feeling apprehensive, Qin Zhenzhen hesitated to answer.
She carefully observed Qin Silong and noticed a significant change in him. He appeared more mature and his aura seemed to exude a sense of danger.
Recalling his role as a chiliarch in the book, she understood that he must have in numerous enemies on the battlefield, which could have heightened his current murderous intent.
Qin Zhenzhen no longer had any doubts. She realized that Qin Silong must have been reborn.
Specting that his rebirth urred today and that he had be suspicious of her peculiarities, he sought her out without dy.
If Qin Silong truly experienced rebirth, he must be aware of their sister¡¯s recent death, which had urred ten days ago.
Yet he still posed the same question to her.
Was he suspecting that she was not their real sister? Would he resort to killing her once his suspicions were confirmed?
She knew she stood no chance against Qin Silong, who had once been a chiliarch.
In the face of his unwavering gaze, Qin Zhenzhen devised a n. ¡°Fourth Brother, I am incredibly frightened. I am uncertain if it was a dream, but I did go through a real death..
Qin Silong inquired, ¡°What did you dream about? How did you die?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s palms grew mmy as she forced herself to continue, ¡°I fainted after hitting my forehead. Then, I dreamt that I died and became a wandering ghost¡¡±
Qin Silong became visibly anxious. ¡°And then? Can you see what happens next?¡±
Observing the disappearance of the murderous look in Qin Silong¡¯s eyes, Qin Zhenzhen began to sympathize with herte sister. Sheposed herself and continued to fabricate her story.
¡°I became a ghost. I could see and hear everything, but no one could see or hear me,¡± Qin Zhenzhen continued, her voice filled with anguish. ¡°I could strike anyone, but they would feel nothing. I could pass through walls and other objects, floating around aimlessly, but I was powerless to intervene¡¡±
¡°I witnessed what happened next. You intended to avenge me by attacking Su Bin, triggering a chaotic battle between the two factions. Second Brother was stabbed and fell to the ground, and Su Qing¡¯s life was tragically cut short by your hand..
¡°I tried to stop you, but my efforts were in vain. You were still stabbed¡¡±
In an attempt to make the story appear authentic, Qin Zhenzhen pretended to have tears in her eyes, projecting distress and sorrow.
Qin Silong, ustomed to doting on his sister, felt his heart ache. He pulled Qin Zhenzhen into his embrace.
¡°Zhenzhen, let it go. Fourth Brother also dreamt of what transpired next¡
¡°Zhenzhen, it is our brothers¡¯ fault. We should never have forced you to marry su Bin!¡±
¡°We caused you and your entire family immense pain!¡±
¡°I will never forgive that wretched man!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen, unustomed to being held in a man¡¯s arms, even if it was her own body¡¯s brother, felt a sense of unfamiliarity.
Though she had been embraced by her brothers many times in her childhood, it was her previous self, not her current existence.
¡°Fourth Brother, when did you have this dream? Why are you asking me now?¡± Qin Zhenzhen pushed away from Qin Silong.
Qin Silong spoke truthfully, ¡°I came to you the moment I woke up from my afternoon nap!¡±
¡°I dreamt that as I rose through the ranks in the army and became a chiliarch, I was ultimately in by that scoundrel and his bandits..
Chapter 85 - 85: Revenge
Chapter 85: Revenge
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong paused, hesitating to disclose the cruel fate that awaited their family in the dream, fearing it would overwhelm his sister.
However, Qin Zhenzhen remained remarkablyposed. ¡°I saw everything you mentioned,¡± she calmly admitted.
Qin Dalong was taken aback. ¡°You witnessed the annihtion of our family?¡± Qin Zhenzhen nodded, her expression filled withplex emotions.
¡°I wandered in that dream for a long time. I even found myself in the pce, where I learned cooking from imperial chefs, the art of making seasonings, and martial arts from the imperial guards¡¡±
Qin Silong was even more astonished. ¡°So you dreamt for longer than I did. No wonder you possess such extensive knowledge.¡±
¡°Fourth Brother¡¯s dream only epassed four years. He was fully immersed in military service and had no time for marriage or starting a family.
Fortunately, he was still unmarried; otherwise, the consequences would have been even more dire.¡±
Qin Silong¡¯s heart ached as he thought of his deceased nephew and family in the dream.
Suddenly, a serious expression clouded his face. ¡°Zhenzhen, you were supposed to have died prior to the dream, so how did youe back to life upon waking
He had considered the possibility that his sister possessed the ability to foresee the future through her dreams. However, he couldn¡¯t fathom how she had managed to cheat death.
Qin Zhenzhen had already formted an exnation.
Before providing an answer, she inquired of Qin Silong, ¡°Fourth Brother, did you experience regret in the moments before your death in the dream?¡±
Qin Silong nodded. ¡°Yes, as I was stabbed by the bandits, I didn¡¯t die immediately. I was losing consciousness.¡±
¡°When I was injured and unable to move, I desired nothing more than to exact vengeance upon him. But before my demise, my final thoughts were that if we could have another chance, we would never be enemies with the Su Family!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen concurred, ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right.¡±
¡°When I was a ghost, I despised the Su Family as well. However, after some time, I began to regret forcing myself to marry Su Bin.¡±
¡°I thought that if given another chance, I would never subject myself to
marrying Su Bin again.¡±
¡°God granted me that second chance when I woke up after marrying Su Bin.¡±
Qin Silong had a moment of realization. ¡°I understand now. That¡¯s why you tried to prevent our conflict after waking up. You don¡¯t want to witness the events from the dream unfolding once more.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in agreement. ¡°Yes!¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t have the courage to share this with you initially, fearing that you would view me as a monster. However, since you¡¯re experiencing the same thing, I feltpelled to confide in someone.¡±
Qin Silong replied, ¡°You¡¯re foolish to think that way! You¡¯re our sister, and no matter what you¡¯ve been through, we will always love you!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen inwardly chuckled.
He spoke so kindly, yet she knew he had once harbored a murderous gaze.
If he had known that a foreign soul had taken over his sister¡¯s body, she doubted he would have uttered suchpassionate words.
Curious about his intentions, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°Brother, what are your ns now? Do you intend to kill him?¡±
Qin Silong affirmed his unwillingness to forgive Su Bin.
¡°Absolutely! I will kill him first! He will transform into a bandit, capable of doing anything he pleases. He might even annihte our entire family. If I don¡¯t seek revenge, I will be filled with utter humiliation!¡±
Gritting his teeth, Qin Silong disyed unwavering determination.
¡°Oh, have you considered how to exact your killing?¡±
Chapter 86 - 86: Not Dead
Chapter 86: Not Dead
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Oh, have you considered how to deal with him?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt a headacheing on.
Qin Silong¡¯s deep-seated hatred towards Su Bin had derailed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s original n.
Her initial intention was to mend the rtionship with the Su Family, help Su
Bin escape the trap set by the Marquis¡¯ Mansion, and eventually agree to a divorce.
But the situation had changed now.
If Qin Silong was determined to kill him, it would likely involve assassination. However, Qin Silong might not possess the necessary skills for such an act, being more of a lucky individual.
There was also the possibility that Qin Silong would be killed before he could exact his revenge, leaving Qin Zhenzhen to continue with the events described in the book.
If his brother killed Su Bin with the assistance of their uncle, it would only escte tensions between the Qin and Su families.
The story would unfold as written in the book.
Qin Silong shook his head. ¡°I haven¡¯t yet considered the specifics of how to kill him, but I am resolved to eliminate him to prevent future troubles.¡±
Qin Silong had also contemted the same possibilities as Qin Zhenzhen.
Having experienced rebirth and subsequent death, and having undergone the baptism of the battlefield, he was not one to act impulsively.
He would thoroughly prepare himself before taking any action.
Qin Zhenzhen suddenly remembered something and asked Qin Silong, ¡°Fourth Brother, I recall that you crippled Su Qing, rendering him unable to be a man, which led him down a deviant path..
Qin Silong awkwardly replied, ¡°I didn¡¯t intentionally cripple him. It was just a result of the fight; I didn¡¯t exert much force.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°After bing a pervert, he married his uncle¡¯s daughter, but he tormented her in every way possible, clearly seeking revenge.
Someone like Su Qing should be eliminated as well, shouldn¡¯t he?¡±
Qin Silong looked at Qin Zhenzhen with surprise. ¡°Su Qing is not a bad person. There¡¯s no need to kill her, is there?¡±
¡°He¡¯s fine now, and I didn¡¯t cripple him. He won¡¯t be a pervert, will he?¡±
¡°If he was a normal person, he wouldn¡¯t have tortured his wife.¡±
¡°By that time, we will prevent him from marrying Uncle¡¯s daughter!¡±
Qin Silong shook his head. ¡°In any case, he¡¯s different from Su Ping. It was I who let him down first. He doesn¡¯t deserve to die.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen observed Qin Silong quietly.
Qin Silong suddenly understood what Qin Zhenzhen was implying. ¡°Zhenzhen, are you saying we shouldn¡¯t kill him?¡±
¡°He didn¡¯t stab Second Brother, and he doesn¡¯t need to flee like a bandit, right?¡±
¡°If he hadn¡¯t be a bandit, he wouldn¡¯t have done those things. I wouldn¡¯t have pursued him, and he wouldn¡¯t have sought to exterminate our entire family, correct?¡±
¡°Is that right?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not certain. But I do know that it won¡¯t be so easy to kill him at this point. Shouldn¡¯t we consider dying his demise?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen then exined her concerns to Qin Silong.
Finally, Qin Silong understood his sister¡¯s perspective.
God had given them a chance to start anew. He wanted them to abandon their past wickedness and prevent history from repeating itself.
Qin Silong understood that, but he wasn¡¯t ready to let him off so easily.
He could spare everyone from the Su Family, except for him!
However, his sister was right. They could wait until the right opportunity arose to ensure his demise.
Qin Zhenzhen let out a sigh of relief, pleased to see that her Fourth Brother was able to grasp the bigger picture.
She wasn¡¯t attempting to dissuade her brother from seeking his revenge, but she believed that their actions should carry a weight of significance..
Chapter 87 - 87: Accompanying
Chapter 87: Apanying
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
He was a noble young master from the Marquis¡¯ Mansion.
Qin Silong did not know about this until his death, because Su Bin did not acknowledge the Marquis¡¯ Mansion at all.
If Qin Silong really killed him, and if Su Bin found out the cause of his death, he would definitely punish the Qin Family.
Qin Zhenzhen felt that it was necessary to tell her Fourth Brother about this.
¡°Fourth Brother, to tell you the truth, when I was a ghost, I could not help but pay attention to Su Bin. I know everything about him.¡±
¡°Su Bin¡¯s father is actually the Young Master of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion¡¡±
Hearing what Qin Zhenzhen said, Qin Silong¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Is that true?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded affirmatively. ¡°Yes! Do you remember that Su Bin ate the wrong thingst year when he was taking the Cultivated Talent examination, and he was disqualified this year?¡±
Qin Silong said, ¡°I remember clearly! Su Bin was set up by a prostitute from
Yihong Courtyard and got disqualified from the Cultivated Talent examination. It took him almost one year to prove his innocence.¡±
¡°So someone was worried that Su Bin would steal his first ce, so they bribed a prostitute to set him up.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°No, that is just an illusion. The real culprit is
Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion!¡±
After hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s story, Qin Silong understood everything and understood Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s concern.
If that was the case, he needed to think about whether he could kill him.
¡°Let¡¯s take a break before killing him!¡±
¡°Zhenzhen, are you going to tell Su Bin who they are?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°We should not tell them about this before the conflict between the two families is resolved. Also, if we tell him about this, I will not be able to exin how I know about this.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t want him to know what happened in the dream. Apart from Fourth Brother, I won¡¯t tell anyone else.¡±
Qin Silong agreed. ¡°That is what I am thinking too. We should never tell anyone else about this, especially the family, in case we frighten our parents, or our brothers get impulsive and things go out of control.¡±
He wished he could kill him the moment he woke up.
Now that he understood what was at stake, he was not going to do anything stupid.
Qin Silong turned to Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°So you are going to stop the prostitutes from setting up Su Bin?¡±
Qin znenznen noaaea again. ¡°Yes, 1 am going to tne county m a rew aays to make sure Su Bin can take the examination smoothly. I will also go to the county pharmacies to promote the cutting of yams.¡±
¡°If this deal can be done, the vigers nearby will have one more way to make money.¡±
Qin Silong sighed inwardly ¨C his sister was more enlightened than he was, and she cherished the chance to start over. Her strategy was to do good deeds.
She believed that evil would be rewarded, and good would be rewarded.
Qin Silong said, ¡°I will go with you in a few days. It is not very convenient for a girl to travel.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen did not object. ¡°Okay, thanks, Fourth Brother!¡±
With her Fourth Brother by her side, she felt even more assured.
Qin Silong was about to leave. ¡°That is a deal. I will go home first, and I won¡¯t be at your ce for dinner.¡±
In case he could not help but hit Su Ping.
Qin Zhenzhen was worried about this as well. So she did not dare to keep Fourth Brother for dinner.
Seeing that Qin Silong was gone, Su Ning and Su Cheng let out a sigh of relief.
For some reason, Qin Silong kept chatting with his Third Sister-inw in the study for so long.
Could it be that he was trying to get Third Sister-inw to divorce Third Brother?
They wanted to eavesdrop, but their voices were too small to be heard clearly..
Chapter 88 - 88: Thanks, Third Sister-in-law
Chapter 88: Thanks, Third Sister-inw
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen left the study and resumed her tasks, while Su Ning couldn¡¯t contain her curiosity. She questioned, ¡°Third Sister-inw, you and your Fourth Brother were just¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded straightforwardly, ¡°We were discussing something, and my Fourth Brother has agreed to divorce me and your Third Brother.¡± Su Ning and Su Cheng¡¯s expressions darkened upon hearing this news.
¡°Third Sister-inw, can¡¯t you just¡ divorce our Third Brother?¡± Su Ning¡¯s voice was filled with sadness.
Qin Zhenzhen took the opportunity to impart some wisdom. ¡°Remember what I told you before? You should hold on to what warms your heart and let go of what doesn¡¯t. People¡¯s feelings change, and if you can¡¯t win them back, you should let go. Don¡¯t stubbornly fight for a man who doesn¡¯t love you.¡±
¡°Forced rtionships are never fulfilling. You¡¯ll understand that when you experience it yourself.¡±
¡°So, don¡¯t follow in my footsteps in the future. You¡¯ll regret it if you do.¡±
Su Ning was taken aback by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words, but soon enough, she grasped the message behind them.
She had a penchant for attractive men, much like Qin Zhenzhen. She even had certain criteria for choosing a partner, prioritizing looks over financial stability, hoping for good-looking children as a result.
She noticed that Qin Zhenzhen seemed to have perceived her thoughts. Was she trying to give her a subtle reminder?
Su Cheng, too, voiced his concern. ¡°Third Sister-inw, when do you n to divorce Third Brother?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°After your Third Brotherpletes the examination.¡±
Su Ning questioned further, ¡°If my Third Brother bes a Cultivated Talent, will you still go through with the divorce?¡±
She didn¡¯t want to be the wife of a Cultivated Talent, did she?
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and replied, ¡°If your Third Brother bes a Cultivated Talent, I will divorce him even more. The gap between us will grow wider, and he might be even more arrogant, you know?¡±
¡°What?¡± Su Ning was taken aback by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s response.
Qin Zhenzhen continued, half-jokingly, ¡°But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m treating you well because you treat me well. It¡¯s called changing someone¡¯s heart. Besides, your Third Brother is destined for sess in the future. If he treats you well, he might return the favor.¡±
Su Ning contemted the situation. She and her Fifth Brother would surely do everything in their power to prevent the divorce between their Third Brother and Third Sister-inw.
It was getting dark, and he was not back yet.
Su Ning and Su Cheng already went to the yard for the umpteenth time.
Qin Zhenzhen found that strange too. Did he go out again?
But why didn¡¯t he tell his family about this?
Look at how worried his brother and sister were.
¡°Third Sister-inw, it is sote and our Second Brother is not home yet.
Could something have happened to him in the mountains?¡±
¡°Are you sure that he is in the mountains and not wandering about on the street?¡±
Su Ning and Su Cheng said in unison, ¡°He must have gone into the mountains to dig yams!¡±
¡°Second Brother said that he is not going anywhere these days. He is going to dig yams and leave all the money to us.¡±
¡°Also, if he goes out, he will definitely tell us.¡±
In his brother and sister¡¯s eyes, this hooligan was a good second brother no matter what.
Qin Zhenzhen consoled them. ¡°In this case, don¡¯t worry. Let¡¯s wait and see. If he doesn¡¯te back, we can go and find him together.¡±
Su Ning and Su Cheng asked together, ¡°Are youing with us?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°It would be dangerous for you two to go into the mountains at night alone.¡±
Su Ning was so grateful that her eyes turned wet.. ¡°Thank you, Third
Sister-inw!¡±
Chapter 89 - 89: Money Together
Chapter 89: Money Together
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
At this moment, he returned with tworge bundles of yams, weighing more than 75 kilograms.
He had been standing at the door for a while and overheard everything Qin Zhenzhen said.
Was Third Sister-inw still willing toe to him in the mountains?
Had he been mistaken in thinking that Third Sister-inw didn¡¯t reject him?
Su Ning hurriedly approached. ¡°Second Brother, what took you so long? We were so worried!¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw said she wasing with us to the mountains to find you!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was rendered speechless. How could Su Ning lie like that?
Su Ping chose not to expose his sister¡¯s lie. He set down the yams and smiled.
¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be fine.¡±
Su Ning went to fetch some water.
¡°Second Brother,e and clean up. We¡¯re waiting for you to eat.¡±
¡°Second Brother, don¡¯t bring so many home in the future. You can split it into two trips.¡±
¡°Don¡¯te home sote. We all get worried.¡± It was clear that Su Ning treated all her brothers well.
Her brothers all adored their sister.
Su Bin was no exception.
He knew that the male lead didn¡¯t like Su Ning, but she persisted in pestering him and trying to set up the female lead. Nevertheless, Su Bin turned a blind eye.
Another market day arrived.
Su Cheng borrowed a cart from the vige and loaded it with 150 kilograms of sundried yam slices, preparing to take them into town.
The people from Qian Vige gathered around, curious about the spectacle.
¡°What¡¯s that? Where is it going?¡±
¡°Oh, that¡¯s the yam you dug before. Are you selling it in town?¡±
Su Cheng nodded. ¡°Yes, we can sell them at the pharmacies in town.¡±
The vigers were taken aback. ¡°Do the pharmacies in town really buy such things?¡±
Su Ning chimed in, ¡°No need to doubt. We¡¯ve already talked to the pharmacy manager. We can sell dried yam slices for 30 wen per 500 grams!¡±
¡°That¡¯s a lot of money!¡±
¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell us about this earlier?¡±
¡°We¡¯re all from the same vige. Let¡¯s make money together!¡±
Some people appeared displeased.
Qin Zhenzhen retorted, ¡°Weren¡¯t you worried about starving to death before? If
I had told you earlier, you wouldn¡¯t have believed me.¡±
A few vigers hurried back home and headed into the mountains to dig for yams.
Su Ning couldn¡¯t help but remind them, ¡°The pharmacies in town don¡¯t need arge quantity. They only require 150 to 200 kilograms. That¡¯s one reason why Third Sister-inw didn¡¯t mention it.¡±
¡°Oh¡¡¯
The vigers who were nning to dig for yams became disappointed.
However, Qin Zhenzhen assured them, ¡°The pharmacies in town don¡¯t need that much, but therger pharmacies in the county might buy them without a
limit.¡±
¡°But I¡¯ll have to go to the county to inquire about the specifics.¡±
¡°If the county pharmacies can purchase inrger quantities, I¡¯ll tell you the digging and drying process.¡±
The vigers perked up, and some of them decided to search for yams in the mountains.
Qin Zhenzhen cautioned them, ¡°If the county pharmacies aren¡¯t interested, there¡¯s not much we can do.¡±
¡°So let¡¯s wait until I¡¯ve spoken with the pharmacies in the county before taking any action.¡±
The vigers anxiously asked Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°When are you going to the county?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°I¡¯ll be going tomorrow.¡±
The vigers cheered in response.
¡°That¡¯s fantastic!¡±
¡°If the deal goes through, we must thank Su Bin¡¯s wife!¡±
¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife, do you know someone at the county pharmacies?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had to rify, ¡°The pharmacy manager provided us with a letter of rmendation..
Chapter 90 - 90: New Clothes
Chapter 90: New Clothes
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Are you going alone or with your brother?¡±
She nced at him, noting the hopeful expression on his face, and informed the others, ¡°I¡¯ll go with my brother because we¡¯re heading to Uncle¡¯s ce.¡±
She was worried that he might insist on going together, but she would definitely choose her fourth brother as herpanion.
Su Ping¡¯s expression darkened.
Third Sister-inw had decided to go with her brother, prioritizing buying yams for him after the deal waspleted.
It was Su Ping who had introduced Third Sister-inw to Manager Lin, and it was Manager Lin who had written the rmendation letter for their family¡¯s benefit.
Yet, Third Sister-inw seemed to be keeping the benefits for her own family.
His anger simmered, but he refrained from exploding right then and there, considering how well Third Sister-inw treated Su Ning and Su Cheng.
Fuming, he briskly pulled the cart, walking ahead at a fast pace.
Su Ning and Su Cheng were left at the back, their assistance no longer required as the wheels spun rapidly.
¡°Second Brother, please slow down. You must be exhausted!¡± Su Ning called out, understanding why their brother was so upset.
They didn¡¯t see anything wrong with Third Sister-inw giving the yam-buying business to her brother.
Qin Zhenzhen caught up with them, sensing the need to provide an exnation.
She hoped to prevent him from confronting her brother directly, as it would likely lead to an argument between the two of them.
¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand me. I am going to the county with my Fourth Brother, but I won¡¯t delegate the task of buying yams to him.¡±
¡°If we strike a deal with the county pharmacies, we¡¯ll need someone to purchase the yams.¡±
He paused and turned towards Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°Buying yams is a simple task, and Su Cheng and his sister can handle it.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s exnation cleared things up for everyone.
Su Ping was a straightforward individual. Feeling remorseful, he apologized,
¡°I¡¯m sorry, Third Sister-inw. I misunderstood you.¡±
¡°But if you do decide to assign the task to your brother, I don¡¯t mind. After all, you¡¯re the one who knows the value of selling yams.¡±
He had thought it through.
However, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but suppress augh.
She wasn¡¯t certain if he was genuinely a good person.
Upon reaching the town, Qin Zhenzhen went to sell seasonings, while the three of them focused on selling the yams.
He was ted to have earned nine liang.
Qin Zhenzhen mentioned that the yams were dug by Su Ning and her brother, so she didn¡¯t need the money.
Taking his brother and sister by the hand, he eximed, ¡°Let¡¯s go! I¡¯ll buy you new clothes!¡±
Su Ning and Su Cheng hesitated. ¡°Third Sister-inw just bought us two sets of new clothes. Why are you buying more?¡±
But Su Ping remained steadfast. ¡°Yes, Third Sister-inw bought them, but I want to buy them differently. I worked hard to dig those yams because I wanted to purchase a new set of clothes for each of you!¡±
¡°As your Second Brother, I¡¯ve never bought clothes for you, whereas Third Sister-inw has. How can I ept that?¡±
Hence, Su Ning stamped her foot in frustration. ¡°Second Brother, why are you so stubborn? Fifth Brother and I are still growing, and the clothes won¡¯t fit us properly in six months.. Isn¡¯t it a waste to buy three sets all at once?¡±
Chapter 91 - 91: Earning Money with Her Brothers
Chapter 91: Earning Money with Her Brothers
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°You can give the money to Fifth Brother as our living expenses.¡± ¡°In this way, Third Brother won¡¯t have to copy so many books.¡±
¡°Also, we should give the money to Third Sister-inw!¡±
It was the first time for Su Ning to speak with her Second Brother so loudly, so everyone was looking at him.
Su Cheng was trying very hard to talk him out of it.
¡°Second Brother, Sister is right. We should save the money, in case we need it urgently. We don¡¯t have to use the contract as coteral likest time!¡±
Su Ping felt a bit embarrassed seeing his brother and sister who were more sensible than him.
¡°Then¡ let¡¯s just leave the money for now.¡±
¡°But Second Brother will continue to dig yams.¡±
¡°Second Brother said that he would buy you new clothes, and he will.¡± Su Ningpromised. ¡°Okay, we can buy them when Second Brother earns more money.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen set up a table next to Elder Brother¡¯s pork store, continuing her efforts to promote the seasonings and yams. She passionately exined the various ways to enjoy yams and highlighted their numerous benefits. ¡°We have a wide array of options when ites to eating yams!¡±
¡°We can prepare vorful yam pork bone soup or a lean meat soup using yams.¡±
¡°They can be roasted or steamed for a delightful twist.¡±
¡°And once sliced and sundried, they can be ground into a powder that adds nutrition to rice paste, benefiting children¡¯s digestion and strengthening their spleen. ¡±
¡°Manager Lin from the pharmacy shared this information with me. You can also ask him about it.¡±
As more people gathered, discussions sparked among them.
¡°Can it truly be that effective?¡±
¡°This can¡¯t be a mere fabrication, can it?¡±
Some individuals even went to the pharmacy to inquire and were reassured by hearing the same information. Consequently, they joined the ranks of yam buyers.
Pork bones, which were previously challenging to sell, were suddenly in high demand and sold out swiftly.
The crowd grewrger, with some being potential buyers and others simply curious observers.
However, the number of people purchasing seasonings surpassed the previous levels.
Qin Zhenzhen quickly sold out all the seasonings.
The two bundles of yams were alsopletely sold out.
Qin Dalong couldn¡¯t contain his joy; he was even happier than when he sold all his pork.
Qin Zhenzhen counted the money and had a conversation with her Elder
Brother. ¡°Elder Brother, I will sell the seasonings on your behalf, and you will receive payment.¡¯
Qin Dalong waved his hands dismissively. ¡°You are my sister. What need is there forpensation?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen spoke earnestly, ¡°Brothers should keep a clear ount. I have been selling them for quite some time, and I am investing mybor and using the store. We are all earning money together.¡±
Qin Dalongughed appreciatively. ¡°Alright, thanks to you, my dear sister, we can earn some extra pocket money!¡±
His happiness was palpable.
After getting married, his sister underwent a remarkable transformation fromziness and greed to apletely different person.
She became industrious, capable of making money and efficiently managing the family affairs. Most notably, she exhibited reasonableness in her actions.
It seemed that the fortune-teller¡¯s predictions wereing true.
At this rate, even if Su Bin couldn¡¯t achieve a top-ranking position, his sister had the potential to be a wealthy woman, leading their family to great sess.
She even started involving her brothers in earning some pocket money.
Thanks to her sister¡¯s popr seasonings, more people flocked to buy pork than ever before.
Since his sister also taught them how to make pork bone soup, they could sell out the bones as well.
Pork became such a hotmodity that they needed to reserve some in advance, or else there would be none left even at home.
Before returning to their mother¡¯s home, Qin Zhenzhen decided to treat her brothers to lunch in town.
Inside her basket, she carried dried yam slices to deliver to the county pharmacies..
Chapter 92 - 92: Wrong Medicine
Chapter 92: Wrong Medicine
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ning and Su Cheng approached Qin Zhenzhen and handed her half of the money earned from selling yams.
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you to give all the money to your Second Brother?¡±
Su Ning exined, ¡°Second Brother insisted on taking only half. He intends to use the other half to buy clothes for Third Brother and his family. Third Sister-inw, please ept the money.¡±
¡°You¡¯ll need a significant amount of money in town!¡±
¡°We¡¯re heading back to work in our hometown and eagerly await good news from you in town!¡±
With that, Su Ning pressed the money into Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hands and left with Su Cheng.
They were concerned that she might refuse their money.
Qin Dalong was astonished. ¡°Your brother-inw and sister-inw are good people! Despite being poor andcking money, they are selfless. They give you what they need themselves.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen stowed away the money, reflecting, ¡°They truly are kind-hearted individuals.¡±
¡°I treated them well during this period, and in return, they treated me well too.¡±
¡°Elder Brother, Elder Sister-inw,e out and let me prepare lunch for you.¡±
Qin Dalong beamed with delight. ¡°Alright!¡±
¡°What kind of meat would you like? Just let me know, and I¡¯ll cut it as you prefer. ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°I won¡¯t be having pork today. I¡¯m growing tired of it. I¡¯ll head to Second Brother¡¯s ce to cut some beef and buy vegetables.¡±
Qin Dalong chuckled. ¡°Go ahead!¡±
Her culinary skills were improving, and she was preparing more diverse dishes.
They weren¡¯t particrly fond of beef due to its peculiar taste.
In fact, the townspeople were not fond of beef either due to its expensive price. Beef was only avable on market days, and even then, it was limited to two or three times a month.
Qin Zhenzhen headed straight to her Second Brother¡¯s beef stall.
Although they had a store in the area, it had been rented out to someone else, so the beef stall was situated right beside it.
As Qin Zhenzhen approached, she overheard an argument between Second Brother and Fourth Brother.
She hurriedly intervened.
A thin man hade to purchase their beef but seemed to be seeking trouble.
First, he imed the beef was overpriced, then he questioned its freshness, even insinuating that it might be dead meat.
The two other brothers, Erlong and Sanlong, were ready to teach him a lesson on the spot, but in Silong stopped them.
Frightened, the thin man quickly fled.
Qin Erlong frowned at Qin Silong. ¡°Fourth Brother, what¡¯s gotten into you today? That man was clearly being unreasonable, yet you stopped me from giving him a piece of my mind?¡±
Qin Sanlong shared the same sentiment. ¡°Fourth Brother, have you lost your mind? Usually, you¡¯re the first one to throw a punch, but now you want us to be cowards?¡±
Qin Silong patiently exined, ¡°If I hadn¡¯t intervened, things could have taken a turn for the worse.¡¯
¡°Sure, you could have beaten him up, but what if you identally crippled him?
Or what if he recovered and brought his brothers back for revenge?¡±
Qin Sanlong and Qin Erlong replied confidently, ¡°No matter how many people there are, they can¡¯t defeat us!¡±
In a hushed voice, Qin Silong whispered to them, emphasizing, ¡°No one dares to cross the four of us, but what about our family? We have young and old members. If we encounter someone ruthless who can¡¯t confront us directly, they may target our family in secret.¡±
Erlong and Sanlong were taken aback when they noticed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s presence.
¡°Zhenzhen, what brings you here? Second Brother mentioned that your seasonings and yams are selling like hotcakes. Have they all been sold?¡± ¡°Yes, they¡¯repletely sold out. I¡¯vee here to cut some beef for lunch.¡±
¡°Alright, alright, feel free to cut as much as you need..¡±
Chapter 93 - 93: Who Sent You
Chapter 93: Who Sent You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen pointed to a specific portion of the meat. ¡°These parts have unique patterns. We¡¯re having hot pot today, and I have all the necessary ingredients.¡±
Qin Erlong¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Is it the same method you mentioned before? Thinly slicing the meat, nching it in boiling water, and then dipping it in sauce?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Exactly.¡±
Qin Erlong assisted her in cutting the beef.
Curious, Qin Zhenzhen inquired about the issue they had disagreed on earlier.
Qin Erlong recounted the entire incident.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. Perhaps her Fourth Brother¡¯s rebirth wasn¡¯t such a bad thing after all.
She had been concerned about turning her four brothers into troublemakers, which would have caused her headaches.
Unexpectedly, fate had given her a helping hand.
With Fourth Brother¡¯s presence, she was certain that he would positively influence the other three.
Reflecting on it, her four brothers were not as bad as she initially thought.
After having lunch in town, Qin Zhenzhen even assisted her brothers in selling pork and beef before returning to her mother¡¯s home alongside Fourth Brother.
Upon arriving home, Qin Zhenzhen was called into a room by her grandmother.
Despite the situation, Qin Zhenzhen did not feel burdened.
Grandma harbored suspicions regarding her true identity, prompting her to interrogate Qin Zhenzhen once again.
Qin Zhenzhen might have been fearful that if her secret were exposed by her grandmother, she would be treated as a monster by her own family.
However, with the rebirth of her Fourth Brother, she no longer harbored fear.
Grandma Qin instructed her to close the door.
After a brief silence, Grandma Qin posed a question, ¡°What is your purpose in pretending to be my granddaughter?¡± Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback.
What possible purpose could she have?
What was Grandma concerned about?
¡°Grandma, I am truly Zhenzhen!¡±
¡°How many times must I assure you before you believe me? If I were an imposter, wouldn¡¯t my parents and brothers see through me? Is that even possible?¡±
Even Grandma Qin was bewildered.
Qin Zhenzhen was correct. If she were an imposter, she would have undoubtedly revealed some inconsistencies.
However, the unease Grandma felt was not entirely baseless.
As someone gifted in the culinary arts, Qin Zhenzhen possessed an acute sense of smell.
Even if she were blindfolded with 100 different ingredientsid out before her, she could urately identify each one.
There was something about the girl standing before her that she had never encountered before. That much was certain.
Regardless, she couldn¡¯t sever her ties with her own granddaughter.
Grandma Qin attempted topose herself.
¡°Then tell me, have you experienced any fortuitous encounters recently?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded straightforwardly, ¡°Would dreaming count?¡± ¡°What kind of dreams?¡±
¡°Someone taught me how to cook and make seasonings, for example¡¡± Qin Zhenzhen began, but before she could finish her sentence, Grandma Qin grew visibly excited, pointing at her with trembling fingers.
¡°Who sent you?¡± Grandma Qin demanded.
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°Who sent me here?¡±
Realizing that she had misspoken, Grandma Qin mmed up, but her agitation was palpable.
Qin Zhenzhen understood.
She couldn¡¯t believe that her grandmother didn¡¯t have any secrets of her own.
Taking the initiative, Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°Grandma, you¡¯re always so suspicious, which makes me suspect that you¡¯re hiding a significant secret from us.
Grandma Qin persistently asked her about any secrets she might be keeping, as if she were determined to uncover them.
Grandma Qin waved her hands dismissively.. ¡°You may leave now! ¡°
Chapter 94 - 94: Elder Uncle’s Visit
Chapter 94: Elder Uncle¡¯s Visit
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen emerged from Grandma¡¯s room, only to be stopped by Qin Silong. ¡°What did Grandma say to you?¡±
¡°She asked me who taught me how to make seasonings,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied.
¡°And what did you tell her?¡±
¡°Last time, Grandma asked me the same question repeatedly. So this time, I told her that I learned it in a dream.¡±
Qin Silong fell into deep thought.
¡°We aren¡¯t as perceptive as Grandma, who seems to see through everything.¡±
¡°Since that day, you¡¯ve bepletely different.¡±
¡°You lied to us before, iming that an expert taught you the seasonings. Was that an attempt to mislead us into thinking that it was Grandma who taught you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen blushed and smiled. ¡°That was the only way I could handle it.¡±
Qin Silong¡¯s eyes glimmered. ¡°Did you uncover Grandma¡¯s secret during all those years?¡±
Considering Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ability to uncover Su Bin¡¯s background, it was possible that she had also discovered Grandma¡¯s secret.
Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have misled them to believe that it was Grandma who taught her.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I have never discovered Grandma¡¯s secret.¡±
¡°But Grandma must have a secret.¡±
¡°However, she has managed to conceal it very well.¡±
¡°Moreover, the secret seems to be rted to cooking.¡±
¡°Grandma doesn¡¯t appear to want us to know her secret, so let¡¯s refrain from probing further.¡±
Qin Silong nodded in understanding. ¡°I agree.¡±
Early the next morning, Qin Zhenzhen and Fourth Brother rented a wagon to the town.
Ms.Yang had many presents for her two uncles.
Eldest Uncle¡¯s family was a smallndlord. They had many children, but they did not need to worry about food and clothing.
His younger uncle, Yang Gan, was the arrester of the county office, and he worked for County Magistrate. He had dozens of guards working for him.
When Su Bin was forced to marry Qin Zhenzhen, the four brothers of the Qin Family mentioned Yang Gan¡¯s name.
They threatened that if Su Bin did not marry Qin Zhenzhen, he would be sued
for molesting a civilian girl, and he would be disqualified from the examination eventually.
The Yang Family was not rich any more, because of Yang Gan.
At that time, the Qin Family was very well-off, which made Ms.Yang be willing to move from the county to Datong Town.
When they arrived at Elder Uncle¡¯s home, Elder Uncle Yanggang was very enthusiastic.
¡°Silong, Zhenzhen, what are you doing here?¡±
¡°We are here to see you, uncles.¡±
Qin Silong was a reborn version man so he turned very sweet-tongued.
Yang Gangughed.
¡°What¡¯s the purpose of bringing so many presents?¡±
Qin Silong responded, ¡°They¡¯re just dried meat, nothing extravagant. Elder
Uncle understands that we can¡¯t sell all of them. Mom will use them to make smoked pork and sweet beef jerky.¡±
Yang Gangughed once again.
¡°I know, I know! Your mother is incredibly skilled at making dried meat. Your uncle and I have enjoyed it countless times, and it¡¯s always delicious!¡±
¡°It¡¯s a rare asion for you to visit the town, and Elder Uncle must ensure you are treated well.¡±
Yang Gang then asked, ¡°How are your parents and Grandma doing?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chimed in, ¡°Mom, Dad, and Grandma are all in good health, as are my brothers, sister-inw, and nephews.¡±
Yang Gang continued, ¡°Oh, Zhenzhen, have you adjusted well after marrying into the Su Family?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°It was a bit challenging at first, but I¡¯ve be more ustomed to it.¡±
Since her arrival in this world, the significant events she had orchestrated hadn¡¯t reached the county yet.
Therefore, she decided not to boast excessively..
Chapter 95 - 95: Yihong Courtyard
Chapter 95: Yihong Courtyard
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
She then politely greeted her cousins and rtives.
Qin Zhenzhen could sense that her cousins were all looking at her with peculiar expressions. They must have noticed that she was different from before.
Perhaps it was due to the original host¡¯s forced marriage to Su Bin that these cousins looked down on her.
However, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t let their judgment affect her. The original host deserved to be looked down upon by her cousins.
While she was in the restroom, she overheard her cousin Yang Lan whispering to her sister.
¡°Everyone knows she¡¯s here to see her stolen husband, but she ims she¡¯s here to see our father. How shameless of her!¡±
Yang Cui quickly silenced her sister.
¡°Stop it! She might confront you if she hears this. You know our father spoils her because of Aunt¡¯s sake.
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback¡ªwas the original host really so confrontational?
Then she heard Yang Lan say, ¡°Yeah, even her father and uncle didn¡¯t stop her from stealing that handsome man.¡±
¡°I heard she even used Uncle¡¯s name as a threat to marry into the Su Family.¡±
¡°She¡¯s not worthy of him, just look at her in appearance!¡±
Yang Cui grew furious. ¡°Enough! It¡¯s already a done deal, why are you defending him?¡±
¡°If outsiders hear this, they might even think you like him too!¡± Yang Lan defended herself. ¡°I don¡¯t like him! It¡¯s Sister Jing who likes him!¡± Before she could finish her sentence, Yang Cui covered her mouth.
¡°Say another word and I¡¯ll p you. Otherwise, you¡¯ll get Sister Jing into trouble! ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen frowned.
It appeared that these cousins were well-acquainted with Su Bin and held a favorable opinion of him. They were defending him for marrying Qin
Zhenzhen.
Sister Jing was likely Uncle¡¯s daughter, Yang Jing.
In the original storyline, after Su Bin gained power, he married Yang Jing and subjected her to torment until her death. However, the book didn¡¯t mention these cousins having any particr fondness for Su Bin.
Nevertheless, none of this was of great significance to Qin Zhenzhen. As long as she and Su Bin were divorced, these cousins would no longer have any connection to him.
After lunch, Qin Silong and Eldest Uncle informed them that they were heading to Heren Store for a business deal.
Upon hearing the whole story, Yang Gang praised Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Zhenzhen, you¡¯re keeping something from us!¡±
¡°Hahaha, at this rate, you¡¯ll soon be able to purchase fields and hire servants with your remarkable speed in making money!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nced at Yang Lan, who shot her a disdainful look. She didn¡¯t believe what her Fourth Brother had said.
After all, she was just a young girl, and they had no time to argue with her.
Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong headed to Heren Store first.
Coincidentally, they encountered Manager Wang in the pharmacy.
Qin Zhenzhen then presented the samples and the letter to Manager Wang.
Manager Wang read the letter, inspected the yams, and provided his response.
If the sundried yams matched the samples precisely, they could purchase an unlimited amount at the same price offered by the pharmacies in town: 30 wen per half a kilo.
With the yam business sessfully negotiated, the siblings proceeded to Yihong Courtyard.
Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Fourth Brother, is the brothel where Su Bin was framed located in this Yihong Courtyard?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had no prior knowledge that Su Bin had been set up by a prostitute.
But Qin Silong was aware of the details. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s the one. The woman¡¯s name is Honglian, and she¡¯s the top courtesan in the Yihong Courtyard..¡±
Chapter 96 - 96: No Worry
Chapter 96: No Worry
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
It was noted in the book that one morning before the Cultivated Talent examination, a prominent courtesan from the brothel arrived at West Mountain College in a wagon, presenting a copy of the Analects to the gatekeeper.
She imed that she had been entrusted by her sister to return the book to its rightful owner and promptly left the college premises.
Upon examining the book, it was discovered that Su Bin¡¯s signature adorned the second page. He had purchased the book a year prior, but it had been stolen a few days ago.
Unexpectedly, it had ended up in the possession of a woman from the brothel.
Word spread quickly once the book¡¯s signing and handwriting were confirmed.
West Mountain College upheld stringent regtions, strictly forbidding students from engaging with establishments such as brothels. Vition of this rule would result in immediate expulsion.
To make matters worse, the ¡°good sister¡± of Honglian, the courtesan, had recently taken her own life. Rumors circted that she had saved a significant sum of money, only to be deceived by her lover, leading to her tragic demise from poison consumption.
Honglian returned the book to Su Bin, openly dering him as the fortunate lover of the deceased courtesan.
Soon, the entire county became aware of this scandalous revtion.
This presented a grave predicament. The County Magistrate receivedints and contemted disqualifying Su Bin from the examination in an attempt to rectify the situation.
At West Mountain College, despite Su Bin¡¯s attempts to exin himself, the teachers and some students demanded his disqualification.
Su Bin proceeded to the county office, seeking to confront Honglian. However, he was informed that she had taken leave two days prior and had been taken away by an unknown visitor.
As a result, Su Bin¡¯s examination spot was nullified.
Two dayster, news surfaced of Honglian¡¯s tragic demise, allegedly due to drowning in the water.
In this manner, Su Bin¡¯s hopes of qualifying for the examination seemed to be dashed.
This had been the n of the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion.
However, what the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion had not anticipated was Su Bin¡¯s unwavering determination to pursue the imperial examination. He was willing to go to great lengths, even risking his life, to remove the obstacle obstructing his path.
Over the course of nearly a year, with the assistance of a loyal friend, Su Bin expended substantial resources and effort to prove that he had been framed.
The me was ultimately ced on a jealous fellow student who had envied Su Bin¡¯s talent.
To safeguard Su Bin from further misfortune, Qin Zhenzhen and the others needed to locate Honglian and prevent her from taking any action the following day.
Qin Silong disguised himself and entered the Yihong Courtyard, pretending to be a guest and inquiring about Honglian. However, he was informed that Honglian had been reserved by another guest and was not receiving any visitors.
Furthermore, Honglian was not present at the Yihong Courtyard.
Qin Silong ryed this information to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°What should we do now? Without finding Honglian, we cannot find the book, nor can we inform Su Bin about the conspiracy involving the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen assured, ¡°Do not worry.¡±
¡°One way or another, Honglian will undoubtedly appear at the gates of West Mountain College tomorrow.¡±
¡°Tomorrow morning, you will keep watch at the entrance of Yihong Courtyard, and I will do the same at the entrance of West Mountain College.¡±
¡°I do not believe that both of usbined cannot prevent her from causing any trouble.¡±
¡°Unless absolutely necessary, we must not provoke the Madame of the
Marquis¡¯ Mansion, as that may endanger all of us.¡±
Qin Silong nodded, expressing his agreement with his sister¡¯s n.
Later in the evening, upon returning to their Elder Uncle¡¯s home, they encountered their youngest uncle, Yang Gan, who had just arrived from the government office.
Yang Gan looked tall and fierce, and he was wearing a murderous look on his face.
Qin Zhenzhen thought to herself that her Fourth Brother looked a bit like this uncle of hers, and her nephew looked a lot like her uncle.
¡°Uncle, greetings!¡±
¡°Hi, Uncle.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen followed her Fourth Brother and addressed this man..
Chapter 97 - 97: Double Compensation
Chapter 97: Double Compensation
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The next day, the brother and sister embarked on their respective paths.
One headed towards Yihong Courtyard, while the other made their way to West Mountain College.
As the examination day drew near, the atmosphere around the gate of West Mountain College was serene. Students were engrossed in their studies, making a final push before the big day.
At around 11 a.m., a wagon with pink curtains came to a halt in front of West Mountain College.
Qin Zhenzhen remained vignt, keeping a close watch on the wagon.
A young woman, adorned with cosmetics, stepped out of the wagon, cradling an object in her arms covered with a cotton cloth. With delicate steps, she made her way towards the college gate.
Qin Zhenzhen focused her attention on this woman.
Based on her affected appearance, it was evident that she was not of good character. Qin Silong had described Honglian¡¯s appearance and demeanor to Qin Zhenzhen, and this woman seemed to match the description.
Furthermore, the bag in her hands resembled that of a book.
Qin Zhenzhen took action. She approached the woman and identally caused her to drop the items she was holding.
The woman with cosmetics cursed, ¡°Are you blind? How could you bump into someone so big?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen quickly apologized, ¡°Sister, please forgive my clumsiness. It was because you are so stunningly beautiful that I identally collided with you.¡±
¡°Do you really think I¡¯m beautiful?¡±
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ttery, the woman¡¯s mood lifted, and she ceased her cursing.
¡°Beautiful? Of course?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen continued with her pretense. She helped the woman collect her belongings and purposely jostled the package, causing the book to fall out. It was indeed an Analects bag.
¡°I apologize for staining your book. Let me help you clean it up.¡±
While picking up the book, Qin Zhenzhen seized the opportunity to nce at the second page, where she saw the name ¡°Su Bin¡± written in an extravagant manner.
Books held great value in ancient times, and students took great care to keep them neat and well-preserved. To prevent theft, students would often inscribe their names on the second page of their books.
Supporting the woman on her back, Qin Zhenzhen retrieved the damp handkerchief she had prepared and intentionally rubbed the name ¡°Su Bin.¡±
In ancient times, ink wasmonly used for writing, and when smeared with a wet handkerchief, the ink would be smudged and illegible.
However, Qin Zhenzhen believed that this was not enough, so she exerted more force and tore the DaDer slightly.
Now, Su Bin¡¯s name was unrecognizable.
Atst, Miss Honglian became aware that something was amiss. She snatched the book from Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s grasp.
Witnessing the destruction of Su Bin¡¯s name, Honglian¡¯s face turned green with anger. ¡°Who asked you to help? Look at what you¡¯ve done to the book¡ªit¡¯s ruined!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen suppressed herughter and feigned embarrassment. ¡°I apologize. I am rather rough, and I used too much force. I didn¡¯t expect the book to be so fragile¡¡±
¡°Shut up! You must have done it deliberately!¡± Honglian fumed, her anger driving her to strike out at Qin Zhenzhen.
Swiftly evading the blow, Qin Zhenzhen pleaded, ¡°Please, sister, don¡¯t hit me! I didn¡¯t mean to cause harm. I am willing topensate you for a new book!¡±
Faced with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s offer topensate her, Honglian¡¯s rage subsided slightly.
¡°You can¡¯t afford it! I will beat you to death!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen disyed arger sum of money. ¡°Look, I can afford it. I am willing to pay you double the amount. Will that suffice?¡±
As the scene unfolded, passers-by and curious onlookers began to gather around, drawn by themotion. Among them were the college students who had just finished their sses and were preparing for lunch. They emerged to see what was unfolding before them..
Chapter 98 - 98: Shameless Woman
Chapter 98: Shameless Woman
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The crowd of onlookers and students grew more curious, eager to learn the details of the unfolding drama. Witnesses among them began recounting the entire incident, shifting me onto Qin Zhenzhen.
Voices rose in criticism:
¡°Why would you use a wet handkerchief to wipe a book?¡±
¡°You should have been more careful and not used so much force!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen maintained her innocent facade, feigning ignorance of the consequences of her actions.
¡°I was sweating, and I absentmindedly used the handkerchief to wipe it. But the more I wiped, the worse it became¡¡±
Honglian, frustrated and angry, realized that she had to go all-in to salvage the situation. She spotted the arrival of two men and knew she had to act swiftly.
With the growing crowd¡¯s attention on her, she eximed, ¡°If you want topensate, ask the owner of the book!¡±
She turned to address everyone, sharing her side of the story.
¡°I was entrusted by my dear sister to return this book to its rightful owner. Since the owner is a student of West Mountain College, I intended to deliver it to the gatekeeper instead.¡±
¡°But I never anticipated that this reckless girl would cause such a mess.¡±
¡°I can only leave this worthless book with the gatekeeper, or you can bring out the owner to settle this matter.¡±
Honglian handed the book over to the gatekeeper, and one of the two men present inquired, ¡°Youngdy, who is the owner of this book?¡±
It was these two men who paid Honglian to do this.
They were here to help her.
Honglian added. ¡°The second page of the book has the name written on it, and
Su Bin is the name. This book belongs to him!¡±
At this moment, some people recognized Honglian and started to whisper among themselves.
¡°She seems to be the most popr girl at Yihong Courtyard, Honglian!¡± ¡°Not seeming like it. It is her for sure!¡±
¡°No wonder she doesn¡¯t look like someone with a proper background!¡±
¡°Wait, she said that she gave the book to her good sister, so her good sister is also a girl from the Yihong Courtyard?¡±
¡°How can a poor schr like Su Bin have the money to go to such a ce?¡±
¡°West Mountain College explicitly prohibits students from visiting brothels. She is trying to set up Su Bin, isn¡¯t she?¡±
So someone asked Honglian, ¡°Who is your good sister?¡±
Honglian said sadly, ¡°I won¡¯t say the name. She passed away a few days ago, don¡¯t mention my scars any more¡¡±
Honglian squeezed out two drops of tears and was about to leave in the wagon.
¡°What is going on?¡±
Everyone started to gossip between themselves.
Qin Zhenzhen seemed startled at first, but then she questioned Honglian loudly.
¡°What did you say just now? You said that Su Bin¡¯s name was written in this book?¡±
Honglian nodded. ¡°Yes, that was Su Bin¡¡¯
Qin Zhenzhen pped her angrily. ¡°Nonsense! The two words written in the book were not Su Bin!¡±
¡°Those two words are written like dog¡¯s bite. I didn¡¯t even see what they were!¡± The onlookers were all very surprised, wondering why this chubby girl was so excited.
¡°How dare you hit me!¡± Honglian was suddenly pped, and the left side of her face swelled up. She rushed forward and wanted to give it back to Qin
Zhenzhen.
¡°I am hitting a shameless woman like you!¡± Qin Zhenzhen pped her on the right cheek again.
Honglian¡¯s cheeks became swollen.
The two men had asked Honglian to leave, but the chubby girl still hit her.
They were definitely going to help Honglian in this way..
Chapter 99 - 99: Not Mine
Chapter 99: Not Mine
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The two men were at the verge of attacking Qin Zhenzhen. Seeing that someone was defending her, Honglian rxed and decided to make some crying sound instead.
Qin Zhenzhen was not afraid either. She believed that these two men should be working for Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion, but they would not disclose their true identities.
At that moment, Qin Silong forcefully inserted himself into the scene, his expression icy and determined.
¡°I will see who dares to bully my sister!¡±
Su Qing and Su Qing quickly followed suit, joining themotion.
¡°Third Sister-inw, what¡¯s happening?¡±
The brothers had overheard the entire story, though they were still uncertain about the full picture.
However, they were well aware that if their third brother¡¯s book was indeed found in the possession of a prostitute, it would be a highly unfavorable situation.
Realizing that Qin Zhenzhen was outnumbered, the two men exchanged nces with Honglian and motioned for her to leave. They quietly departed from the crowd.
Honglian attempted to slip away, but Qin Zhenzhen firmly pulled her back. ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere until everything is rified!¡±
Honglian erupted into a fit of tantrum, copsing to the ground and sobbing. The two men who had previously left returned,pelled by a sense of justice.
¡°You can¡¯t bully a defenseless girl like this!¡±
¡°She returned the book out of kindness.¡¯
The two men had already recognized Qin Zhenzhen and her family, yet they couldn¡¯tprehend how this chubby girl had single-handedly unraveled the entire situation.
Was it merely a coincidence, or¡.
But they truly would not reveal their own identities. Their job was to help Honglian.
Qin Zhenzhen snorted in response. ¡°Kind? She¡¯s evil! I believe she¡¯s trying to frame my husband! ¡±
The students from West Mountain College erupted into a frenzy of discussions.
¡°Is she Su Bin¡¯s wife?¡±
¡°What is she doing here?¡±
In that moment, Honglian had a sudden realization that this chubby girl standing before her was indeed Su Bin¡¯s wife.
Seizing the opportunity, she countered, ¡°Ah, I see now. You knew I had Su Bin¡¯s book, so you deliberately knocked it down and erased the name. You were afraid your husband would be involved with a woman from a brothel, jeopardizing his standing in the college¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s voice grew even louder. ¡°Ah, I understand! You¡¯re here to sabotage my husband¡¯s chances of sess!¡±
¡°My husband has no ill will towards you. Who put you up to this?¡±
¡°My husband¡¯s future is at stake, and we will report this to the authorities!¡±
Honglian, flustered by her own mistakes andcking the eloquence of Qin Zhenzhen, felt the secret on the verge of being exposed. Sensing this, the two men red at Honglian and discreetly departed from the scene.
Qin Silong chose not to follow them, aware that their presence would certainly draw attention.
He and Zhenzhen maintained their facade of ignorance.
At that moment, Su Bin was summoned forward, his expression cold andposed.
He had already grasped the situation. It was clear to him that someone was deliberately orchestrating events to prevent him from taking the examination.
A realization struck himst year, someone had likely spiked his food withxatives, causing his diarrhea.
Who was behind these attempts to obstruct his path towards bing a Cultivated Talent?
When Su Bin emerged, he understood the implication behind Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words.
Without acknowledging Qin Zhenzhen, he proceeded to examine the book in question.
The onlookers inquired, ¡°Su Bin, is this your book?¡±
Su Bin carefully turned to the second page and let out a sigh of relief when he realized that his name was illegible.
¡°No, this book does not belong to me.¡±
Only a fool would confess to owning the book under these circumstances!
The teachers collectively exhaled in relief.
Su Bin, being the most exceptional student in their college, was someone they desperately wanted to protect from disqualification.
Just then, Yang Gan received the news and arrived with his guards.
After acquiring an understanding of the situation, they all headed to the county office, apanied by the book..
Chapter 100 - 100: County Magistrate’s Case 1
Chapter 100: County Magistrate¡¯s Case 1
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
County Magistrate attached great importance to the reputation of West Mountain College, so he started the interrogation.
Su Bin was involved, so he went to the county office together. The dean of the college thought highly of him and asked one teacher and two students to keep himpany.
County Magistrate asked what was going on.
Honglian panicked when she did not see the two men. But she still insisted on what she said before.
¡°Officer, I am Honglian from Yihong Courtyard. My good sister asked me to return one book of the Analects to a student from West Mountain College.¡±
County Magistrate¡¯s eyes were burning. ¡°What is your sister¡¯s name? Where is she from?¡±
¡°She is my sister at the Yihong Garden. Her name is Hongzhu, and she has been sold since she was a child. She doesn¡¯t even know where she is from. Also, she passed away five days ago.¡±
¡°Who can prove that?¡±
Honglian had to tell them the names of the two girls from Yihong Courtyard.
County Magistrate gave them a token. ¡°Bring them to Yihong Courtyard for interrogation!¡±
Honglian felt even more anxious seeing County Magistrate¡¯s thorough investigation.
She had no choice but to continue with the confession.
¡°But I didn¡¯t expect that the book would be ruined by this girl. The name in the book can¡¯t be seen clearly, but I remember that the two words are definitely Su
Bin. ¡±
¡°Iter learned that this girl is Su Bin¡¯s wife.¡±
¡°Maybe she knocked down the book identally, but when she saw the name in the book was her husband, she erased the name in the book so her husband would not be implicated.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded to the County Magistrate¡¯s question withposure.
¡°I am Qin Zhenzhen, and I came here with my Fourth Brother to visit my husband.¡±
¡°I wanted to inquire if I could prepare food for him during the examination. I was concerned that he might fall ill from consuming the food and miss the examination, as happenedst year.¡±
Su Bin observed Qin Zhenzhen as she spoke and noticed that she had lost weight, herplexion had improved, and he detected a cunning gleam in her eyes.
¡°I had been waiting at the gate of West Mountain College, hoping someone
would fetch him after ss. However, I identally knocked over the items in this woman¡¯s hands.¡±
¡°While assisting her in picking up the book, I noticed it was soiled. I used a handkerchief to clean it, but instead of bing clearer, the words grew darker and illegible.¡±
¡°At that point, I considered wiping off the ink and rewriting the text, which would have resulted in damage to the book.¡±
¡°But I refrained from doing so because she imed to recognize the two words.¡±
¡°However, truthfully, those two words resembled dog bites, and I couldn¡¯t discern their meaning. If I had been able to identify them as ¡®Su Bin,¡¯ I would never have imagined the gravity of the situation.¡±
¡°If I had foreseen this oue, I would have destroyed the entire book or fled with it.¡±
Honglian¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You¡¯re lying! Anyone who can read would recognize those two words!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen held her ground. ¡°I may not know many words, but I cannot mistake my husband¡¯s handwriting for Su Bin¡¯s. It is not my husband¡¯s handwriting at all!¡±
The County Magistrate and the Strategist exchanged a meaningful nce, privately contemting that the chubby girl appeared to be truthful. It was highly probable that the woman from the brothel was the one fabricating the story.
Perhaps the name written in the book was indeed Su Bin¡¯s, but it had not been penned by Su Bin himself..
Chapter 101 - 101: County Magistrate’s Case 2
Chapter 101: County Magistrate¡¯s Case 2
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Only now did the County Magistrate ask Su Bin, ¡°Is this book yours?¡±
Su Bin shook his head calmly. ¡°No.¡± ¡°What makes you so sure?¡±
¡°I have two reasons to support my im.¡±
¡°Firstly, on the second page of my copy of the Analects, there are two words written by me ¨C Su Bin.¡±
¡°Secondly, my argument was still present in the book three days ago, and I have witnesses to confirm this. Additionally, this girl¡¯s alleged good sister passed away five days ago, which suggests that she gave this book to her before her passing.¡±
Honglian felt a cold sweat break out on her forehead. Her confession was riddled with inconsistencies.
Young Master Lin, Su Bin¡¯s roommates, as well as Old Master Wang, provided testimony supporting Su Bin¡¯s alibi, affirming that they had seen Su Bin with his book three days ago.
¡°Where is your book now?¡±
¡°It disappeared three days ago.¡±
¡°Was it stolen?¡±
¡°Yes.¡±
At West Mountain College, students who were financially well-off had the option of having a single room. However, those who couldn¡¯t afford it shared a room with up to six people. The doors were rarely locked when they went to eat, bathe, or attend sses. Only those who were particrly cautious locked their personal belongings in a box.
During that time, Su Bin was perplexed as well.
Schrs took great pride in their possessions, and it was rare for someone to steal another person¡¯s books. Additionally, it was customary for schrs to inscribe their names on the first few pages of their books.
So this show was waiting for him here.
Soon the two girls from Yihong Courtyard arrived.
The two girls appeared visibly frightened.
Without prior notification from Honglian, they told the truth.
¡°Sister Hongzhumitted suicide five days ago.¡±
¡°She chose to end her life after being deceived by a man named Wang, who took her savings. She left behind a suicide note, expressing her belief that all men are heartless.¡±
¡°Sister Hongzhu felt she was getting too old to remain with her sisters. She thought she would eventually be sold and desired a carefree life.¡±
¡°If it weren¡¯t for her suicide note, no one would have known about her decision.¡±
After the County Magistrate concluded his questioning, he struck the wooden stick.
¡°How dare you lie about being Hongzhu¡¯s good sister, Honglian!¡±
¡°Tell me, where did you obtain the book?¡±
¡°Sister Hongzhu gave it to me. She asked me to return it to the students at West Mountain College.¡±
¡°She didn¡¯t mention the name of the books owner when she gave it to you?¡±
Honglian, now filled with fear, changed her statement. ¡°No, she didn¡¯t mention a name. She simply instructed us to pass the book to the gatekeeper. Officer, I am not very literate, and the two words were written in cursive. I must have misread them..
The County Magistrate struck the wooden board once more. ¡°That contradicts your previous statement!¡±
Honglian kowtowed and pleaded, ¡°Officer, I was too arrogant¡
The County Magistrate snorted. Before resorting to torture, this girl was already revealing her true colors.
Having just learned from the strategist that Su Bin was the son-inw of Constable Yang, and this chubby girl was the niece of Constable Yang.
Constable Yang did not personally ask the County Magistrate for help, but he had confided in the strategist about their rtionship. As colleagues, they felt obligated to take Su Bin¡¯s side.
Another reason the scales tipped in favor of Su Bin was his exceptional performance as a student at West Mountain College.
Su Bin had secured the top position in the county examinationst year, only to miss the subsequent examination due to an unfortunate incident involving the consumption of improper food.
If Su Bin were to achieve a top 10 ranking in this year¡¯s examination, it would bring great honor to the county. As the County Magistrate, it would also reflect positively on his own aplishments.
Given these factors, it was imperative for them to protect Su Bin, especially when it was ringly obvious that he was being set up..
Chapter 102 - 102: County Magistrate’s Case 3
Chapter 102: County Magistrate¡¯s Case 3
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
County Magistrate was poised to resume Honglian¡¯s interrogation when a discreet note was discreetly passed to him. The delicate parchment held the handwriting of his beloved wife, containing merely six words: ¡°Release her for 1,000 liang.¡±
For County Magistrate, those words carried an undeniable allure. Furthermore, he pondered that without rescinding Su Bin¡¯s qualifications, allowing Honglian to depart was not an insurmountable issue.
Thus, County Magistrate excused himself and withdrew to the inner hall, seeking answers from his wife. ¡°Who is safeguarding her?¡± he inquired.
His wife responded in hushed tones, ¡°It is her guest, the proprietor of Yihong Courtyard. Su Bin has little to lose, and Honglian is simply mistaken. She bears no grudge against Su Bin and harbors no intention to falsely use him. Just grant her release!¡±
County Magistrate furrowed his brow. ¡°But what if he is being framed?¡±
With unwavering conviction, Madame assured him, ¡°That is highly improbable. There exists no substantial evidence. Consider it a case of mistaken identitybined with the urgency of her family¡¯s financial situation. How about extending some benefits to Su Bin?¡±
¡°Let us conclude this matter promptly; the primary concern is not to dy Su Bin¡¯s examination.¡±
¡°But what if the book truly belongs to Su Bin?¡±
County Magistrate nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Very well.¡±
And so, County Magistrate, who had initially intended to administer punishment to Honglian, dered, ¡°Honglian, while your intentions were not malicious, your actions have already sullied Su Bin¡¯s reputation. As rpense, we shall impose 30shes upon your back.¡±
Upon hearing this, Honglian nearly copsed. ¡°Officer, I implore you! Thirtyshes will surely be the end of me¡¡±
County Magistrate added, ¡°Given your timely admission of guilt, you may offset the punishment by paying 50 liang. This sum shall be awarded to Su Bin aspensation for the damage to his reputation.¡±
Honglian prostrated herself. ¡°Thank you, County Magistrate!¡±
She was a delicate and cherished young woman, and subjecting her to 30shes would undoubtedly result in her demise. The recovery would require at least six months, and yet she willingly offered 50 liang aspensation. With a note of 50 liang in hand, she swiftly exited the county office.
The strategist personally handed the money to Su Bin.
The County Magistrate showed no concern for Su Bin¡¯s well-being, issuing the order to dismiss the court.
Su Bin had already pondered the repercussions of pursuing the investigation
further.
He couldn¡¯t fathom who was hindering his path to bing a Cultivated Talent.
However, he was acutely aware that this individual had meticulously orchestrated his downfall for two consecutive years.
Even if Honglian revealed the instigator¡¯s identity, Su Bin knew it wouldn¡¯t be the true culprit.
Perhaps it would be best to quell the entire matter and address it after the examination.
He was fortunate to have escaped disqualification.
Nheless, Su Bin admonished himself to exercise utmost caution.
By the time they exited the county office, lunchtime had long passed.
Two students and one teacher from the college hade to the governmental office to testify on behalf of Su Bin, and he felt obligated to treat them to a meal.
With the 50 liang inpensation, he was generous with his spending.
They chose a nearby restaurant.
Su Qing even suggested inviting Yang Gan to join them for dinner.
As a student of drama, Su Qing possessed finesse in dealing with people.
She smiled at Yang Gan. ¡°Uncle, we are aware that my Third Brother owes his safety to your assistance. He asked us to reserve a seat for you over there.¡±
¡°I am busy!¡±
Yang Gan inwardly sneered¡ªwhy should he go when the host was absent?
Before Su Qing could persist, Yang Gan retorted coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t you know that those affiliated with the governmental office should distance themselves from the case?¡±
The two brothers had an epiphany.
¡°That is truly unexpected..¡±
Chapter 103 - 103: Lucky Star
Chapter 103: Lucky Star
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Yang Gan couldn¡¯t resist interjecting, ¡°In fact, you should express your gratitude to my niece!¡±
If it weren¡¯t for Zhenzhen¡¯s intervention, Su Bin would have struggled to defend himself.
They pondered who Su Bin had managed to offend!
It seemed that even his aspirations of bing a Cultivated Talent were being thwarted.
Su Bin wondered if he would suffer the same fate as the previous year and fail to achieve his goal.
Yet, he had the audacity to look down upon Zhenzhen.
After Yang Gan departed, the two brothers exchanged nces.
¡°Second Brother, is he implying that we mistreat Third Sister-inw?¡±
Su Ping corrected his younger brother. ¡°He believes that your Third Brother mistreats your Third Sister-inw.¡±
The entire family had embraced Zhenzhen as one of their own.
Su Ping proceeded to recount Zhenzhen¡¯s recent actions to his younger brother, leaving him astonished. ¡°If that¡¯s true, then I will ept her as my
Third Sister-inw!¡±
Only the Third Brother remained silent, withholding his thoughts.
He had traveled to the county to sell yams, bringing along money to support his brother for tomorrow¡¯s examination.
After the county examination, they still had to proceed with another round of tests. Food and amodation required funds. He didn¡¯t want his Third Brother to endure another bout of diarrhea from eating street food due to financial constraints, as had happenedst year.
He first visited his Fourth Brother, then the two brothers arrived to provide financial support to Su Bin. They hadn¡¯t anticipated such a turn of events.
Su Qing chimed in, ¡°Third Sister-inw is a harbinger of good fortune for Third Brother. Without her, he would have fallen into that trap set by the woman of ill repute.¡±
Although he possessed a rough exterior, he wasn¡¯t dim-witted. He clearly understood that his brother must have offended someone who was now scheming against him.
¡°You¡¯re absolutely right, Third Sister-inw is our lucky charm!¡±
¡°But who could be behind this plot against Third Brother?¡±
Su Ping spected, ¡°Could it be fellow students from the same college?¡±
¡°Consider this, our county is vast, and every year, thousands of individuals participate in the examination, but only a hundred can secure a spot.¡± ¡°Third Brother was disqualified, which means there was one additional vacancy.¡±
Su Qing yfully patted Su Ping¡¯s head. ¡°Have you lost your mind?¡±
¡°There were a hundred spots! Did you go through all this trouble just to secure one less spot?¡±
Su Qing elucidated, ¡°I¡¯m not finished yet. What I mean is that after this person harms Third Brother, they might secure the first ce!¡±
Achieving first ce would bring rewards within the county!
Moreover, Cultivated Talents who ranked in the top ten for three consecutive examinations were honored as Best Performers.
Best Performers not only gained fame but also received a monthly stipend from the governmental office.
¡°That¡¯s a possibility!¡±
The two brothers returned to their seats at the restaurant, ready to enjoy the meal.
Su Ping addressed Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Fourth Brother and I wanted to invite your uncle for a conversation, but he wishes to avoid suspicion.¡±
Su Bin nced at his brother. Was he subtly indicating that he had epted Qin Zhenzhen as their ¡°Third Sister-inw ?
He had never contemted his own emotions before!
Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°We should have insisted, or I would have invited him to join us. My uncle has been immensely helpful today.¡±
Despite the incident with the pancakes on their first encounter, Su Liang hadn¡¯t received any other benefits from Qin Zhenzhen. Yet, he had developed a favorable impression of her based on his Second Brother¡¯s descriptions.
He smoothly referred to her as Third Sister-inw.
¡°Third Sister-inw, we owe a debt of gratitude to your uncle and to you.. If you hadn¡¯t intervened with that woman, the consequences would have been dire¡¡±
Chapter 104 - 104: Bad Luck
Chapter 104: Bad Luck
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After dinner, Su Bin and the others hurriedly made their way back to the college. The county examination was scheduled for the next day.
Su Bin contemted for a moment and took Qin Zhenzhen aside for a private conversation.
¡°I don¡¯t need you to prepare food for me tomorrow.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and replied, ¡°Okay!¡±
She wouldn¡¯t insist on providing him with food if he didn¡¯t require it.
Su Bin was somewhat taken aback. She hade all the way to prepare meals for him, yet she gave up so easily?
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cold demeanor, Su Bin felt a twinge of difort.
After a brief hesitation, Su Bin expressed his gratitude. ¡°Thank you for what you did today.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen calmly responded, ¡°It was merely a coincidence. There¡¯s no need to thank me.¡±
¡°Fortunately, I understand some words, and I know that the book belongs to you. However, I¡¯m not foolish, and I can discern that the woman wasn¡¯t sincere. If others were to learn that your book was in her possession, it would undoubtedly tarnish your reputation.¡± Su Bin retorted angrily, ¡°She must have been bribed!¡±
Yet, hecked the means to prove it.
He handed 50 liang to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Could you ask your uncle to investigate this matter for me?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen declined the money. ¡°You can keep the money. I will inform my uncle about the truth. I won¡¯t ask you for any funds until I have some leads.¡±
¡°It would be beneficial for you to keep the money. There are three examinations ahead, and there are various expenses to consider. While you have amodations in the county, when you travel to the province, you¡¯ll not only need to eat but also find lodging.¡±
¡°Remember to eat at some high-ss restaurants, so we can avoid idents.¡±
She sounded just like an old mother who nagged.
Su Bin felt very ufortable hearing that.
With the money in his hands, he hurried back to the college.
The words that Qin Zhenzhen was the lucky star of their family kept ringing in Su Bin¡¯s head.
Was she his nemesis or his lucky star?
Who was going to stop him from taking the examination?
That person started to set him upst year. How much hatred did that person have for him?
Most annoyingly, they were in the dark and he was in the light.
He had wanted to ask Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s uncle for help, but he stopped himself.
Seeing his brother leaving, he said, ¡°Third Sister-inw, I need to leave now. I have something to do!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen knew what he was going to do.
Most of the friends he was hanging out with were living in the town.
At the gate of West Mountain College, Qin Zhenzhen saw two men who seemed to be very friendly with him.
¡°Are your friends following Honglian?¡±
Su Ping nodded and said with a small voice, ¡°We can¡¯t make a big fuss about this, and don¡¯t tell my brother about this.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found that funny. She was going to say that she had already said that.
But she could not help but remind him.
¡°Honglian is a woman with fireworks. She knows many people, and people like her are always protected by evil forces.¡±
¡°When you¡¯re following her, you better be safe.¡±
But Su Ping did not care. ¡°Third Sister-inw, don¡¯t worry, we are not made of mud!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen did not say anything more. She had already told them what they ought to do.
If he was going to get himself killed, it would be exactly what his brother wanted anyway.
Qin Zhenzhen had seen how her Fourth Brother looked at him. It was not a very friendly position.
After he left, Su Qing said goodbye to her. ¡°Third Sister-inw, I am going back to the theater.¡±
When only Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong were left alone at the moment, Qin
Silong said, ¡°That bastard, if he doesn¡¯t let go of Honglian, he will be doomed..¡±
Chapter 105 - 105: Different
Chapter 105: Different
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong¡¯s spirits were high as he realized he could eliminate his adversaries from his past life without lifting a finger.
Qin Zhenzhen also shared his upbeat mood.
She paid no mind to any suspicions that Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion¡¯s n might raise.
She intended to seek assistance until the very end.
If Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion still sought to harm Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen had no qualms about exposing the secret.
Once Su Binpleted the county examination, she nned to negotiate with him. Together with her Fourth Brother, they would aid him inpleting the three examinations in exchange for a divorce letter. In doing so, they would have nothing to lose.
Upon returning to her uncle¡¯s residence, Qin Zhenzhen found herself surrounded by her cousins.
¡°Cousin, could you please enlighten us about what transpired?¡±
¡°Are the two words written in the book not your name, cousin?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had no choice but to lie. ¡°Of course not! I can recognize Su Bin!¡±
¡°The matter is crystal clear. There is no need to question me further, as Honglian made an error.¡±
Although her cousins were deceived, some remained skeptical.
They eavesdropped, suspecting that Honglian had been given specific instructions. The County Magistrate must have divulged something important. They yearned to uncover the truth from Qin Zhenzhen.
However, Yang Gan returned and red at them. ¡°Are you itching to experience punishment?¡±
These audacious brats were bing increasingly daring. How dare they question the County Magistrate¡¯s judgment!
The two cousins dared not inquire any further.
Yang Gan beckoned Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong with a wave. ¡°Come here, I have something to ask you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen knew that even if she could keep this hidden from everyone else, she couldn¡¯t hide it from her ever-watchful uncle.
As expected, Yang Gan straightforwardly questioned Qin Zhenzhen,
¡°Zhenzhen, tell me the truth, did you recognize the two words in the book?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen decided to be honest. ¡°Actually, I recognized it as Su Bin¡¯s Essays, and those two words were signed by Su Bin.¡±
Yang Gan fixed his gaze on Qin Zhenzhen. What had gotten into his niece?
¡°How did you know that the book would harm Su Bin?¡±
When did his niece be so astute?
Qin Zhenzhen countered with a question. ¡°If I told you I impulsively damaged the book out of anger, would you believe me, Uncle?¡± ¡°I only realized the gravity of the situationter on.¡±
Yang Gan softened his probing gaze.
¡°Are you certain that Honglian was instructed to frame Su Bin?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded.
¡°We simplyck sufficient evidence.¡±
¡°Then why didn¡¯t you question the County Magistrate¡¯s decision?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen retorted. ¡°Uncle, you must have noticed that the County
Magistrate made the decision after receiving a note.¡±
¡°That note must be more valuable than money. We don¡¯t possess any money, so how can we suspect the County Magistrate?¡±
¡°Furthermore, even if we persist, we can¡¯t guarantee that Su Bin won¡¯t be affected during the examination.¡±
¡°That¡¯s why Su Bin denies the book is his and chooses not to pursue the matter for now.¡¯
Hearing this, Yang Gan snorted. ¡°I don¡¯t think so!¡±
Su Bin¡¯s second brother had already started tailing Honglian.
They publicly acknowledged the County Magistrate¡¯s decision, but privately, they investigated Honglian.
Qin Zhenzhen understood her uncle¡¯s concerns.
He feared that they would uncover the truth and expose the fact that the County Magistrate had epted bribes..
Chapter 106 - 106: Consequences
Chapter 106: Consequences
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen refrained from addressing her uncle¡¯s concerns directly.
Throughout history, officials protected one another, and her uncle needed to show respect for the County Magistrate.
If anything were to happen to the County Magistrate, he would be the first to face repercussions.
Yang Gan persisted in his questioning. ¡°If Honglian is acting under someone¡¯s orders, do you have any suspects in mind?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head.
¡°Uncle, do you intend to inform the County Magistrate about this?¡±
Yang Gan smiled. ¡°You¡¯re too naive. Do you think the County Magistrate is unaware of the truth?¡±
¡°The County Magistrate is highly observant. He knows that both you and Su Bin are lying. He¡¯s also aware that Honglian acted upon orders.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found it hard to believe.
Yang Gant s expression turned serious. ¡°The County Magistrate made that decision not because he epted bribes, but because he wanted to set a trap to catch the mastermind.¡±
¡°Honglian was released, but we had someone tailing her.¡±
¡°Instead of returning to Yihong Courtyard, Honglian went back to the house she purchased and left behind a suicide note.¡±
From the start, Qin Zhenzhen knew that trailing Honglian would be futile.
If they were willing to buy off Honglian, they surely had a means to sever all connections.
Those individuals were trained by a wealthy family, leaving no traces behind.
Honglian was undoubtedly going to meet her demise.
However, the news of Honglian¡¯s death came as a surprise to them.
¡°She confessed to all her sins?
Yang Gan nodded. ¡°She imed that Wang Lin stole Su Bin¡¯s book and instructed her to fabricate a lie to frame him. Wang Lin was concerned that Su Bin would surpass him and take the top spot.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen realized that Wang Lin had be the scapegoat for Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion.
However, just a year ago, he was still the scapegoat himself.
Should she intervene and try to save him?
¡°Uncle, why are you telling us all this?¡±
Yang Gan replied, ¡°Both you and Su Bin are intelligent individuals. Uncle doesn¡¯t need to instruct you on what to do.¡±
¡°If we expose this to the public and Su Bin denies the book is his during the public examination, it might lead to his disqualification.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen wanted to defend Su Bin. However, since the book was broken and the name was missing, it was understandable that they didn¡¯t recognize it as her book. How could that be considered a crime?
In the end, she restrained herself and gave up.
¡°And as for you, making a false confession in court, do you understand the consequences?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen cursed internally¡ªwere they going to punish her again?
¡°What about Wang Lin?¡±
¡°A prostitute¡¯s one-sided ount is insufficient to convict him. However, since the jade is in Honglian¡¯s possession, we have the evidence we need.¡±
So that¡¯s how they framed Wang Lin.
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t dare to deny the weight of so-called witnesses in ancient times.
¡°If Wang Lin can find a witness to prove that his jade was stolen and raise doubts about Honglian¡¯s will, the case will beplicated, and more individuals will be implicated.¡±
¡°I¡¯m afraid that both Wang Lin and Su Bin won¡¯t be able to take the examination.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt that her uncle was a cunning old fox, continually luring her into traps.
¡°Should we convict Wang Lin now?¡±
Yang Gan looked at Qin Zhenzhen meaningfully. ¡°What do you think? Should we convict him?¡±
From her uncle¡¯s tone, Qin Zhenzhen could infer that he had already informed the County Magistrate that Wang Lin wouldn¡¯t be convicted..
Chapter 107 - 107: What Do You Want
Chapter 107: What Do You Want
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After being urged to make a decision, Qin Zhenzhen pondered for a moment and chose to do a favor.
¡°I understand your intentions, Uncle. As long as Su Bin remains unharmed, we won¡¯t cause any trouble.¡± Yang Gan let out a sigh of relief.
¡°It¡¯s good that youprehend.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen cursed internally¡ªshe had better grasp the situation!
Being an official made it easy to amass wealth. Young Master Wang¡¯s family would require a significant sum of money to support their son¡¯s career.
In the evening, Young Master Wang approached Qin Zhenzhen and informed her, ¡°Tomorrow, I will deliver the letter to my family and inform the vigers about the sessful yam business.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t question the motive behind it but instead discussed the pricing with him.
¡°We should inform the vigers that we need to pay for the yams upfront. Additionally, we¡¯ll need to allocate manpower for quality checks and transportation to the county. Let¡¯s set the price at 25 wen per half a kilo, ensuring it meets the required standards.¡±
¡°If someone believes the price is too low and wishes to sell the yams themselves, that¡¯s eptable too.¡±
Su Ping nodded. ¡°I will ry your message.¡±
After contemting for a moment, he informed Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Yesterday, my friend and I followed Honglian to a house.¡±
¡°She never emerged from the premises. One of my friends and I stayed nearby, while the other sought assistance to capture Honglian and interrogate her.¡±
¡°But before nightfall, the guards stormed into Honglian¡¯s house, iming she was dead.¡±
¡°If my friends and I hadn¡¯t reacted swiftly, we might have been apprehended by the guards.¡±
¡°We¡¯ve been unfortunate to lose the lead!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen offered some constion. ¡°We are fortunate that your Third
Brother hasn¡¯t been disqualified.¡±
¡°My brother will definitely excel in the examination!¡±
¡°In case anyone tries to frame my brother again, I¡¯ve made up my mind to apany him until the end of the examination.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°How much will it cost?¡±
He had friends in the county, and they could even stay with Su Qing. However, once they reached the province, they would need to cover expenses for food and amodation. and the examination wouldst a considerable amount of time.
The county examination would span one day, with the rankings announced three dayster. The top 100 individuals would qualify for the provincial examination.
The provincial examination would take ce ten dayster, with rankings released three days afterward. Only those listed on the rankings would officially be Elementary Level students and qualify for the examination.
The examination itself would span three consecutive days, with only Cultivated Talents appearing on the ranking.
If they wanted to stay with Su Bin throughout this period, they would need to spend a month in the province.
It would be quite costly to sustain this arrangement for a month.
¡°After my third brotherpletes the examination, I will go and dig yams to earn more money. I can stay at the store and eat to my heart¡¯s content¡
Qin Zhenzhen interjected. ¡°You¡¯re not nning to bathe for a whole month?¡±
¡°I can clean myself by the river during the day,¡± Su Ping nonchntly replied. Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but exim, ¡°Let¡¯s discuss thister!¡±
Once Su Ping departed, Qin Zhenzhen sought out her fourth brother for a conversation.
¡°Su Bin should be participating in the county examination tomorrow. My concern lies with the subsequent rounds.¡±
¡°The situation has changed. They haven¡¯t harmed Su Bin, and they won¡¯t give up easily.¡±
¡°Should we apany Su Bin to the province?¡±
¡°Following them to the province would incur significant costs. It¡¯s not feasible.¡± ¡°Moreover, we¡¯re unaware of their intentions, so we¡¯re in a passive position.¡±
¡°I believe the best course of action is to expose the identities of Su Bin and the others and inform the Marquis about his wife¡¯s actions.¡±
Qin Silong agreed with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s suggestion.
¡°What do you propose we do?¡± he asked..
Chapter 108 - 108: Better Life
Chapter 108: Better Life
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°I have an idea, and I¡¯ll need your assistance, Fourth Brother¡¡± Qin Zhenzhen shared her n with Qin Silong, who nodded in agreement. ¡°That¡¯s a good idea!¡±
Not only would it help Su Bin and the others learn about their backgrounds, but it would also make Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion feel uneasy.
Most importantly, they wouldn¡¯t reveal the secret that had been leaked by the siblings, ensuring they wouldn¡¯t be punished for offending Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion.
Early the next morning, a crowd gathered at the entrance of the examination hall.
Simr to the modern-day college entrance exams, many parents and rtives came to see off their children and loved ones.
Once inside the examination hall, Qin Zhenzhen constantly reminded Su Bin and the others to stay calm during the examination to avoid poor performance.
The first day of the county examinationsted only one day, but she still brought lunch for them.
Due to the previous year¡¯s bout of diarrhea, Su Bin didn¡¯t have any side dishes with him; he only had a bowl of rice.
However, he was already waiting at the entrance of the examination hall.
Spotting him from a distance, she hurried over. ¡°Third Brother, this is for you!¡±
Su Bin unwrapped the egg and coriander cake enclosed in lotus leaves and caught a familiar scent. ¡°Did she make these?¡±
Su Ping nodded. ¡°Yes, Third Sister-inw did!¡±
Su Bin handed back the pancakes and snapped, ¡°I told her she didn¡¯t have to make them! ¡±
No matter what she did, he refused to acknowledge her as his wife.
Su Ping felt a bit embarrassed.
¡°Third Sister-inw didn¡¯t make these for you. She, along with her cousins and Second Brother, are selling them at the stall. I bought them from her for breakfast.
Su Bin was taken aback. This woman had expanded her business to the county?
Su Ping continued, ¡°Third Sister-inw is an excellent cook. But what¡¯s even more impressive is the seasonings she creates.¡±
¡°I asked her about it, and she said that selling pancakes is secondary. Her main goal is to establish a market for her seasonings in the county.¡±
¡°So she sells egg and coriander pancakes alongside the seasonings. They have been attracting a lot of customers, and I don¡¯t think they can keep up with the demand.¡±
¡°The seasonings are selling exceptionally well too. If she can sell her seasonings throughout the county, it would be more profitable than digging yams!¡±
Su Ping had noticed that the ingredients his Third Sister-inw used and her preparation method were simple, yet the end result was unique and vorful seasonings.
¡°If this continues, our family will undoubtedly have a better life.¡±
His siblings would no longer go hungry, and he wouldn¡¯t have to worry about his brother¡¯s school fees.
They might even persuade their brother to leave the entertainment industry and return home to join the yam business.
A bright future awaited their family.
However, his Third Brother hadn¡¯t changed his attitude towards his Third Sister-inw.
Su Bin understood what his Second Brother meant. He didn¡¯t want the egg and coriander pancakes.
He opened Su Bin¡¯s food basket and saw only a bowl of rice, which infuriated him.
¡°I know you don¡¯t want to owe Third Sister-inw any favors, but you need to think about yourself. It¡¯s just one bowl of rice, and it¡¯s not enough to provide proper nutrition. If you¡¯re not properly nourished, how can you have the energy toplete the examination?¡±
¡°You¡¯ve been studying for so many years to be a Cultivated Talent and rank at the top, right?¡±
¡°If you don¡¯t have enough food to eat, you¡¯ll end up crying in despair!¡±
Su Bin was startled. His Second Brother had never scolded him like this before.
Then, he ced the pancakes into Su Bin¡¯s basket.
¡°Just consider it as Second Brother buying these pancakes for you to eat. You don¡¯t owe anything to Third Sister-inw.. You owe it to Second Brother!¡±
Chapter 109 - 109: 30% Share
Chapter 109: 30% Share
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about getting diarrhea from eating the egg pancakes. I saw many people buying them for their children who were rushing to the examination. They only purchased them after trying them.¡±
¡°The food is cold, what if it doesn¡¯t taste good and affects the appetite?¡± He was fretting like a worrisome mother.
Annoyed, Su Bin entered the examination room with the food basket.
He could simply put the food inside and not eat it.
Seeing that Su Bin passed the examination, Su Ping stood outside the examination hall, feeling reassured.
There were many others waiting outside the examination hall, just like him.
Throughout the years, there would always be individuals who left early during the examination.
Some were caught cheating, some fainted during the test, and some experienced various health issues that prevented them from continuing.
No parent wanted any of these misfortunes to befall their child, but there was no guarantee they wouldn¡¯t happen. All they could do was wait outside the examination hall.
If someone encountered such an unfortunate incident, they could promptly take care of their child.
Parents were always so caring.
Of course, Su Ping didn¡¯t want his brother¡¯s examination to end prematurely.
But he knew that even if he were present, he might not be able to do much.
He could only pray that Third Sister-inw could bring good luck to Third Brother.
They had experienced two years of unfortunate circumstances.
Third Sister-inw had already started bringing good fortune to the family, and he hoped this time would be no exception.
Qin Zhenzhen informed her Elder Uncle and Elder Aunt that she intended to set up a pancake stall.
Her Elder Uncle¡¯s family fully supported her.
Prior to this, Qin Zhenzhen had cooked for her Elder Uncle¡¯s entire family, receiving high praise. Even the cousins who had previously been indifferent towards her now looked at her with newfound admiration.
Eldest Uncle gestured to his son and daughter-inw, instructing them to assist Qin Zhenzhen and her brother. Additionally, her two cousins volunteered to lend a hand.
Qin Zhenzhen hadn¡¯t anticipated that as soon as she set up the pancake stall, the tantalizing aroma attracted arge number of people.
Some couldn¡¯t help but sing its praises.
In no time, their stall was surrounded by customers, many of whom were purchasing for their children.
When someone inquired about other ways to use the pancakes, Qin Zhenzhen seized the opportunity to promote her seasonings.
One person tried the seasoning by putting it on their hand and tasting it, and immediately proceeded to make a purchase.
Others followed suit.
Before long, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s flour and eggs were exhausted, and the seasonings were sold out.
She announced, ¡°Apologies, but we¡¯re closing for now.¡±
They inquired, ¡°When will you be selling pancakes again?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°I only sell them for one day since I don¡¯t reside in town.¡±
¡°In truth, these egg and vegetable cakes are quite simple to make. As long as you have the seasonings, I guarantee the taste won¡¯t differ much.¡±
¡°My seasonings will be avable at my cousin¡¯s store. If you need anything, you can purchase them there.¡±
¡°My cousin¡¯s store is located next to Feihong Theater. Look, this is my cousin.¡±
Some individuals had already recognized him.
¡°Yes, he¡¯s Mr. Yang!¡±
¡°He¡¯s a renowned businessman.¡±
¡°We needn¡¯t worry if he¡¯s willing to sell the seasonings in his store!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen hadn¡¯t anticipated her cousin¡¯s poprity.
Upon returning to her uncle¡¯s home, Qin Zhenzhen beamed with joy.. ¡°Cousin, after the seasonings are sold, I¡¯ll give you a 30% share of the profits!¡±
Chapter 110 - 110: The Truth
Chapter 110: The Truth
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°That won¡¯t work. 20% is sufficient,¡± objected Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cousin, Yang Hong.
¡°Your seasonings are sold in my store, and it doesn¡¯t require much space. I have to manage the store anyway, so thebor costs are minimal,¡± Yang Hong exined.
Qin Zhenzhen persisted, ¡°This is a long-term business, and the profits should be generous to ensure a fruitful cooperation in the future.¡±
Yang Hong had his own n. ¡°Cousin, how about we sign a contract? You will exclusively sell your seasonings to us, and the profits will still be 20%.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled. Her cousin was indeed a shrewd businessman.
However, making seasonings wasn¡¯t overly difficult. Moreover, she needed her cousin¡¯s assistance to expand their business in the county, and she wanted everyone to earn a fair share. That was the best way to coborate.
¡°Cousin, even if you hadn¡¯t mentioned it, I would have willingly signed the contract with you, and the profits would still be 30%.¡±
¡°But let¡¯s make it clear that I¡¯m granting you exclusive rights in the county, not elsewhere.¡±
Yang Hongughed. ¡°Okay, okay! It¡¯s a deal. I can¡¯t leave the county for the time being.¡±
¡°But Cousin, I have one request. If you have any other innovative products to sell, please consider giving me exclusive rights in the county first.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right. I n to make soy sauce, and if it turns out well, I¡¯ll offer you the first opportunity.¡±
¡°That¡¯s a deal!¡±
Su Bin remained at the stall until he finished his examination. He stayed there from morning until evening, only having two slices of pancakes for lunch, and now his stomach was growling in hunger.
Spotting his brother emerging from the examination hall, Su Ping approached him with delight.
¡°Third Brother, did anything noteworthy ur?¡±
Su Bin wore a rare smile.
¡°I¡¯m out of the examination hall, what could go wrong?¡±
Su Ping grinned in response. ¡°Was the paper challenging?¡±
¡°It wasn¡¯t difficult. If you have a good grasp of the knowledge from the books you¡¯ve studied, you can secure a ce on the rankings.¡±
The county examination wasn¡¯t overly arduous; otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t select 100 candidates each year.
The real challengesy in the prefectural examination and the academy examination.
This reassured Su Ping even more.
Memorization wouldn¡¯t pose a problem for Third Brother.
Suddenly, Su Bin turned his attention to his Second Brother. ¡°Second Brother, have you been here the whole time?¡±
Su Ping nodded. ¡°Not even for lunch?¡±
¡°Yes¡¡±
However, his rumbling stomach betrayed him.
¡°Second Brother, let¡¯s go grab a meal and find Fourth Brother.¡±
Su Bin suppressed his emotions. He knew that his Second Brother must have skipped lunch, so he refrained from mentioning it.
But he suggested, ¡°We should express our gratitude to Constable Yang at his home. Without him, things wouldn¡¯t have gone so smoothly.¡±
Su Bin didn¡¯t want to go. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say we should avoid raising suspicion?¡±
She intended to meet Qin Zhenzhen at the Yang Family¡¯s residence.
To outsiders, it might seem as though he was visiting his wife!
¡°That¡¯s different from going to a restaurant. We¡¯re visiting rtives at the Yang Family, so there¡¯s no need to be so cautious.¡±
Su Bin still resisted the idea.
He yed his trump card. ¡°Did you hear that Honglian is dead?¡±
Su Bin remained unfazed. He responded calmly, ¡°I anticipated that.¡±
Su Ping attempted to entice him. ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know who framed you?¡± Su Bin was intrigued. ¡°Who knows the truth?¡±
¡°I believe Third Sister-inw should know. Constable Yang informed her,¡± he recounted to Su Bin.
¡°I informed Third Sister-inw about Honglian¡¯s death, and she didn¡¯t seem surprised at all, just like you. It indicates that she already knows about Honglian¡¯s demise, and it won¡¯t affect your examination any further..¡±
Chapter 111 - 111: Thanks
Chapter 111: Thanks
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin was persuaded and eventually bought some presents to the Yang Family.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s Elder Uncle Yang Gang received them warmly, but Yang Gan went out after dinner without meeting them.
Su Bin had to ask Qin Zhenzhen for information.
¡°I have something to ask you, can we step outside for a moment?¡± Qin Zhenzhen instantly understood what he wanted to ask.
¡°Okay, I will apany you outside for a while.¡±
They reached the riverside and stopped at the same time.
Qin Silong and Su Ping were watching them from a distance.
The two of them ran into each other every now and then. Qin Silong looked as if he were going to eat him up, and turned away in disdain.
That made him drop the idea of trying to get close to them.
He was a hot-blooded man, and he was not going to give them the cold shoulder.
Also, he felt that Qin Silong was too stingy.
He had offended them verbally because he was defending his brother. But they did not get into a fight, and no one was hurt.
He had forgiven the Qin Family for trying to kill his Third Brother.
The other three brothers of the Qin Family were his enemies, except for Qin Silong.
What a stingy person!
Do you think I am your enemy? Do you think I am your brother?
So he did not want to talk with Qin Silong.
The two of them turned away.
On Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s side, Su Bin asked bluntly, ¡°Did your uncle tell you the truth about the woman¡¯s death?¡±
¡°Yes, she left a suicide note,¡± Qin Zhenzhen confirmed.
She proceeded to ry the information shared by Yang Gan to Su Bin.
A frown appeared on Su Bin¡¯s face. ¡°No wonder Wang Lin seemed to bear a grudge against me.¡±
¡°But I¡¯m certain he¡¯s not trying to frame me!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen turned to him. ¡°What makes you think so?¡±
Su Bin hesitated for a moment before confessing, ¡°Even if I fail the examination, he won¡¯t be the top scorer!¡±
¡°They must have chosen him as a scapegoat because of his wealth.¡±
¡°The ones who might surpass mee from impoverished families.¡±
A sudden realization struck Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Wang Lin must have saved a significant amount of money to secure his qualification for the examination.¡± ¡°If he wasn¡¯t involved, he would have been annoyed by your insult.¡±
Su Bin awkwardly exined, ¡°I have never offended anyone. If I am intelligent, then there¡¯s nothing to say!¡±
What an egotistical antagonist!
Qin Zhenzhen responded casually, ¡°I know.¡±
Su Bin turned to her. ¡°You know? Do you know who set me up?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Today¡¯s events were merely coincidental. ¡±
Observing the worry in Su Bin¡¯s eyes, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but console him. ¡°The truth is now revealed, and you are prepared. They might not dare to employ any further tactics.¡±
Su Bin turned away, gazing at the river, seemingly unwilling to say anything more. He sensed that Qin Zhenzhen was withholding something from him. Qin Zhenzhen, no longer desiring to remain with him, prepared to depart.
¡°I told you everything I know.¡±
¡°I will go home with Fourth Brother tomorrow morning.¡±
Su Bin could not help but turn around to look at her. ¡°I will return after the results are released.¡±
¡°Okay!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen turned and left the spot.
¡°Thank¡ thank you!¡±
Su Bin uttered the words, eventually.
Qin Zhenzhen turned around and teased him. ¡°How are you going to thank
She now realized that this viin was not that scary after all. Maybe it was because he had not reached the turning point yet..
Chapter 112 - 112: Men Should Protect the Country
Chapter 112: Men Should Protect the Country
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin was taken aback by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s unexpected question. His expression darkened, and he pressed his lips tightly, refusing to utter a word.
He hadn¡¯t anticipated that she would use this as an excuse!
Oin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°Actuallv, I iust want vou to write me a divorce letter!¡± Watching Qin Zhenzhen walk away, Su Bin felt a mix of emotions.
Did she truly want to divorce him?
His hatred for her had diminished somewhat.
He even began to acknowledge that she had her redeeming qualities. Fifth Brother and Sixth Sister had mentioned that she tripped him identally while their aunt pushed her from behind.
Besides, he identally touched her inappropriately. A girl¡¯s reputation was of utmost importance, which was the primary reason why the Qin Family forced him into marriage.
Initially shocked and furious at realizing his mistake, Su Bin now felt a burning sensation on his face.
Shaking his head, Su Bin redirected his focus. What was the point of dwelling on this?
His main goal was to cultivate his talents!
After Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong departed, Su Bin left the riverside with them.
He bid farewell to Su Bin at West Mountain College and proceeded to Su Qing¡¯s residence.
Deciding to return home early the following morning to harvest yams, he nned to apany his brother to the provincial examination.
That night, he suggested to Su Qing, ¡°Why don¡¯t you go back home to dig yams with Second Brother?¡±
¡°Well, your Third Sister-inw has assigned the task of buying yams to Fifth
Brother and Sixth Sister. I¡¯m afraid they¡¯ll be too upied with that.¡±
¡°Second Brother is embarking on a long journey in a few days, and he intends to apany your Third Brother until hepletes the examination.¡±
Su Qing was very hesitant. ¡°But I still prefer singing.¡±
He really liked to sing operas, not because he felt that farming was a difficult thing.
So he dropped the topic.
The next morning, Su Bin returned to Datong Town.
After breakfast, Qin Zhenzhen and Fourth Brother headed to town and arrived at Yang Hong¡¯s store.
Yang Hong had alreadyid out arge bag of seasonings for them.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mood brightened as she witnessed the group of people making purchases.
Qin Silong was also in high spirits.
¡°Fourth Brother, you can assist me in making the seasonings. I¡¯ll be making soy sauceter, and if it sells well, I¡¯ll definitely establish a workshop. At that time, I¡¯ll hand over the management of the workshop to you, and we can split the profits evenly, 50-50.¡±
Qin Silong shook his head. ¡°I can help you for now, but when the recruitment begins next spring, Fourth Brother will still be joining the army!¡±
The memories of the battlefield from their previous lives were still fresh in his mind.
As a man, it was his duty to protect home and country.
In his past life, he had be a chiliarch. In this life, he aimed to rise even higher, perhaps even to the rank of a general.
¡°You can rely on Elder Brother and the others to help manage the business and earn a significant amount of money, ensuring that our family lives without worries. Fourth Brother will earn renown in the military camp. In this life, Fourth Brother must bring honor to our family.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°Alright, Fourth Brother, I support you! My goal isn¡¯t just to make money; I want to expand my business to the capital!¡±
Qin Silong couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°I¡¯m looking forward to it! By then, no one will look down on us, and those who once looked down on us will never be able to reach our level!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen could sense that her Fourth Brother was indirectly referring to Su Bin, but she didn¡¯t want to bring it up.
In his previous life, Fourth Brother had died prematurely, so he was unaware of Su Bin¡¯s ruthless methods. He also didn¡¯t know that Su Bin was superior to everyone else.
How could anyone im that Su Bin wasn¡¯t good enough for her?
Chapter 113 - 113: Not Injured
Chapter 113: Not Injured
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen and Fourth Brother were on the verge of heading home when they witnessed a handsome young boy rushing out of the Feihong Theater.
A group of boys, around 11 or 12 years old, hurriedly made their way to Yang Hong¡¯s store.
¡°Mr. Yang, please save your cousin¡¯s brother-inw, Su Qing! They¡¯re going to beat him to death!¡±
Yang Hong was taken aback. ¡°Who are you talking about?¡±
¡°The brother-inw of your aunt¡¯s daughter in Datong Town¡ the brother of Su Bin, who had awsuit the other day¡¡±
The Feihong Theater was situated right next to Yang Hong¡¯s store, but due to Su Bin¡¯s disapproval of Qin Zhenzhen, Su Qing had refrained from establishing a rtionship with the Yang Family.
The Yang Family had no knowledge that Su Qing was working as an apprentice in this troupe.
However, it was now a matter of life and death.
Without hesitation, Yang Hong and the boy swiftly entered the theater to rescue Su Qing.
Upon hearing what the boy had ryed, Qin Zhenzhen turned to Fourth Brother. ¡°We must save Su Qing!¡±
But Qin Silong had already dashed into the theater before her.
As Yang Hongid eyes on the siblings, he felt a sense of relief. He had worried about his ability to save Su Qing alone.
¡°Cousins, what are you doing here?¡±
¡°Fourth Brother and I were strolling around town, nning to inform you about this, but we stumbled upon this situation!¡±
They had unintentionally stumbled upon the theater.
The sound of the boy¡¯s cries and the constant thwacks of the whip against his body echoed through the air.
¡°Who do you think you are? You¡¯re not allowed to enter!¡±
Qin Silong forcefully pushed them aside one by one, causing them to fall to the ground, their faces upturned.
¡°Don¡¯t dare to stop us if you value your lives!¡±
The remaining two men couldn¡¯t help but retreat.
Qin Zhenzhen and the others reached the backyard unhindered.
Two young men were taking turns mercilessly whipping Su Qing.
The troupe¡¯s owner sat atop the master¡¯s chair, observing everything from his elevated position, while a man stood behind him.
¡°Continue beating him until he begs for mercy!¡±
Over 20 troupe members stood around, but none of them dared to intervene.
Su Qing buried her face in the ground, crying out in pain.
¡°I didn¡¯t steal¡ I didn¡¯t steal¡¡±
However, the two men seemed unaffected by her words. The whip had already left bloody marks on Su Qing¡¯s hands and feet.
¡°Do you understand what you¡¯ve done wrong? Beg for mercy!¡±
¡°No¡ No, I won¡¯t!¡±
¡°Stop!¡±
Qin Silong rushed forward, shoving the two men aside.
He exerted less force this time, yet the two men still stumbled a few steps before regaining their bnce.
¡°You bastards¡¡¯
Realizing that Qin Silong and the others were not part of the troupe, the two men cursed and raised their whips, preparing to strike Qin Silong.
¡°Wait!¡±
The troupe owner intervened, stopping the two men from attacking further.
Qin Zhenzhen and Yang Hong had already arrived at the scene.
Qin Silong helped Su Qing up from the ground and inspected his injuries. ¡°Apart from your hands and feet, are you hurt anywhere else?¡±
Then, Qin Silong couldn¡¯t help but nce at Su Qing¡¯s groin.
Concerned that Su Qing might endure a simr fate as in their previous lives due to injury in that area, Qin Silong had rushed faster than anyone else.
Ever since he had the dream, the mention of Su Qing¡¯s name would trigger memories of his past life, and Qin Silong felt an overwhelming sense of indebtedness towards him.
He naturally wanted to protect andpensate for what had happened in their previous lives.
Tears welled up in Su Qing¡¯s eyes as he shook his head. ¡°You arrived just in time. I haven¡¯t sustained injuries anywhere else..¡±
Chapter 114 - 114: Unconvinced
Chapter 114: Unconvinced
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong observed Su Qing for a moment and believed his words.
He recalled the memory of kicking Su Qing in the groin during their previous life, causing him to fall to the ground in agony.
Qin Zhenzhen approached Su Qing and inquired, ¡°Su Qing, why did they attack you?¡±
Angrily, Su Qing replied, ¡°They used me of stealing the props!¡±
Just then, the troupe owner, who had been seated in the master¡¯s chair, coughed twice, capturing everyone¡¯s attention.
¡°Su Qing, we have witnesses and evidence against you. Your defense won¡¯t hold!¡±
¡°Wang Si, tell these people what happened. You can spare Su Qing, but the stolen items must be returned!¡±
Wang Si proceeded to recount the incident.
Due to Su Qing¡¯s gender, his master had intended for him to take on a female role.
Old Master Zhang had a fondness for Su Qing and had personally financed the creation of a set of genuine jewelry for him.
Unexpectedly, driven by greed, Su Qing had secretly made arrangements for a fake set of jewelry.
During the rehearsal the day before, Boss Zhang had attended and specifically requested Su Qing to wear the real jewelry. He had praised Su Qing¡¯s performance wholeheartedly.
However, when Su Qing was removing his makeup, he stole the authentic set of jewelry.
On the morning of the shoot, they discovered that the genuine jewelry had been reced with counterfeits.
They had no idea where Su Qing had disappeared to, and their search had been fruitless.
Su Qing¡¯s second brother had been present at the theater the day before, and it was possible that he had already taken Su Qing away.
Su Qing swore vehemently, ¡°I swear, if I had stolen those ornaments, may I die a terrible death!¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw, you have to believe me. I did not steal any ornaments!¡±
The troupe owner, a fat middle-aged man, looked at Su Qing and scoffed, ¡°Su Qing, you¡¯re too naive to think that swearing will work!¡±
¡°We have all the evidence, and you can¡¯t deny it!¡±
At that moment, Yang Hong whispered to Qin Zhenzhen and her brother, ¡°Mr.
Zhang is a pervert. He has harmed more than one boy¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen understood.
Boss Zhang must have developed an interest in Su Qing, despite his unattractive appearance. However, it seemed that Su Qing had rejected his advances.
Subsequently, Boss Zhang and the troupe owner had conspired to set up this trap, attempting to force Su Qing into submission.
This revtion made things clearer.
Qin Zhenzhen inquired with purpose, ¡°How much are the ornaments worth?¡±
Proudly, the troupe owner replied, ¡°They are worth 200 liang!¡± Pretending to be shocked, Qin Zhenzhen eximed, ¡°That much?¡±
¡°So, are you suggesting that wepensate you if we cannot retrieve the jewelry?¡±
The troupe owner exuded an air of self-assuredness. ¡°Of course!¡±
¡°What if we don¡¯t have the money?¡±
Thinking he had the upper hand, the troupe owner shook his head and started to sing, ¡°Then you¡¯ll have to sell yourselves as ves!¡± Su Qing became so enraged that he felt like vomiting.
¡°You¡¯re framing me! I will report this to the authorities!¡±
The troupe ownerughed dismissively. ¡°Go ahead and make your report. But don¡¯t me me if you end up losing everything!¡±
But then someone informed him, ¡°Boss, Mr. Yang is Officer Yang Gant s nephew¡¡±
¡°What?¡±
The owner of the troupe felt a headacheing on.
¡°What is their rtionship?¡±
¡°Su Qing¡¯s third brother, Su Bin, married Yang Gan¡¯s niece.¡±
¡°Su Bin would have been disqualified for the examination, but thanks to Yang Gan, he was saved¡
The troupe owner regretted not have looked into Su Qing¡¯s background, before he agreed to help with Boss Zhang¡¯s request.
But when he thought of the payment Boss Zhang gave him, he could not help but feel another motivationing up in his heart..
Chapter 115 - 115: Goodness
Chapter 115: Goodness
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The troupe owner¡¯s tone shifted.
¡°There are alternative options!¡±
¡°Su Qing, if you truly desire to keep the outfit, you can ask for forgiveness from
Boss Zhang, and the payment can be made in installments.¡±
¡°Boss Zhang is the most reasonable person to talk to.¡±
Su Qing¡¯s face turned red. ¡°I¡¯ve already told you that I will never be alone with Boss Zhang again!¡±
He turned towards Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Third Sister-inw, do you believe me? I swear!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°There¡¯s no need to swear. I trust you.¡±
She would be a fool not to see through the troupe owner¡¯s poor attempt at acting.
In the original storyline, it was mentioned that Su Qing became perverse due to humiliation during a performance.
It was likely that he had been manipted by Boss Zhang, leading to his humiliation.
However, now that Qin Zhenzhen had transmigrated and caused a butterfly effect, Su Qing didn¡¯t want to experience that humiliation, and they had time to prevent it.
Whether Su Qing could avoid humiliation at the hands of Boss Zhang would depend on Qin Zhenzhen.
Su Qing¡¯s eyes lit up. He asked hopefully, ¡°Third Sister-inw, will you help me win thewsuit?¡±
Second Brother had told him about how Fifth Brother had been falsely used of stealing corn, and Third Sister-inw had effortlessly proven his innocence.
He wished to be as fortunate as Fifth Brother.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded once more. ¡°As long as you don¡¯t have those stolen items, I can certainly help you win the case, because good will triumph over evil!¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw, I will go with you to beat the drums to make an appeal.¡±
The troupe ownermanded his men to prevent Qin Zhenzhen from leaving. ¡°Su Qing is not allowed to leave the troupe until the items are returned!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°Well, let¡¯s discuss this and allow everyone to analyze whether you have any valid reason to detain Su Qing.¡±
¡°Firstly, Su Qing handed over the items to you yesterday. Why didn¡¯t you inspect them then?¡±
¡°But this morning, you suddenly imed they were fake. That is clearly a false usation!¡±
The troupe owner defended himself. ¡°After Su Qing handed over the items, I trusted him and locked them in a box. The key was always with me¡¡¯
Qin Zhenzhen sneered. ¡°Exactly. We will report you for theft and frame Su
Qing, forcing him to sell himself as a ve. That¡¯s two crimes!¡±
The owner scoffed. ¡°Reporting this to the authorities requires evidence. Where is your evidence?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen calmly replied, ¡°We don¡¯t need witnesses. We just need victims.
We won¡¯t only report you, but also Boss Zhang. We will set a trap for you!¡±
¡°I heard from my uncle yesterday that several people have used Boss Zhang of orchestrating a plot to torture the boy to death. They are gathering evidence, and he may face multiple charges at once!¡±
¡°We shall see if you can stop us!¡±
Her Fourth Brother had been a chiliarch in his previous life and had experienced the battlefield. Even dozens of men in the troupe were no match for him.
Moreover, she possessed superpowers.
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen reveal Boss Zhang¡¯s wicked deeds and mention the county office gathering evidence, fear gripped the troupe owner.
He was pondering what to do next when one of his men rushed over and whispered something into his ear.
¡°Boss Zhang has sent word, instructing us to release Su Qing. We must not get trouble with the Yang Family!¡±
The owner of the troupe changed his face and pped the underling right on the face.
¡°You brats! You should have checked before making up such a story!¡±
Chapter 116 - 116: Falling in Love with Third Sister-in-law
Chapter 116: Falling in Love with Third Sister-inw
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Then the troupe owner smiled at Su Qing.
¡°Su Qing, I apologize, but they im to have verified that the items are indeed genuine, and you did not switch them.¡±
Su Qing let out a sigh of relief.
Unexpectedly, the boss surrendered so quickly when Third Sister-inw took action!
Second Brother was right. Third Sister-inw truly was their lucky star.
The troupe owner continued with his theatrics. He took Su Qing¡¯s hands and spoke sincerely,
¡°Su Qing, I have always held high hopes for you! I handpicked the best master to train you, and I will ensure your proper development.¡±
¡°I nearly misjudged you just now. To make it up to you, I hereby announce that from today onward, you are officially part of our troupe!¡±
¡°You can try out the leading role in advance and will receive monthly bonuses, as well as year-end bonuses!¡±
¡°Are you happy? Excited?¡±
Hearing this, the other apprentices couldn¡¯t help but feel envious.
Su Qing had only been learning acting for half a year.
In contrast, the others would need to study for at least two years before being considered for a leading role. Only then would they receive a monthly allowance and be the backbone of the show, entitled to dividends.
However, Qin Zhenzhen turned to Su Qing. ¡°Do you still want to stay here?¡±
If Su Qing still wished to remain in the troupe, Qin Zhenzhen would respect his decision.
Fortunately, Su Qing wasn¡¯t foolish.
He understood that no matter how much he loved acting, he couldn¡¯t stay here and subject himself to humiliation.
If he had to endure such disgusting things for the sake of the show, he would rather abandon it and return home to focus on farming.
He spoke coldly to the troupe owner, ¡°No one would want to stay here any longer!¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw, wait for me. I¡¯ll pack up and go home with you!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen let out a sigh of relief.
¡°Fourth Brother, apany him.¡±
¡°If anyone doesn¡¯t understand the situation, let them taste your fist!¡±
Qin Silong chuckled. ¡°Absolutely!¡±
Su Qing expressed his gratitude. ¡°Thank you, Fourth Brother Qin.¡±
Qin Silong patted his shoulder. ¡°No need to thank me. We¡¯re family.¡± Then he felt somewhat embarrassed.
¡°Never mind, I was mistaken. My sister is divorcing your Third Brother.¡±
Upon hearing that, Su Qing felt a pang of suffocation.
If only Third Sister-inw didn¡¯t divorce Third Brother.
If only Third Brother were like him, not wanting Third Sister-inw to leave¡
Soon, Su Qing finished packing and emerged with Qin Silong.
The troupe owner didn¡¯t dare utter a word. He handed 10 liang to Su Qing. ¡°That¡¯s for medical expenses¡ I truly didn¡¯t intend to harm you!¡±
Su Qing turned to Qin Zhenzhen, and she replied, ¡°You¡¯ve been injured by him. It¡¯s only right that hepensates you!¡±
Even with the money in hand, Qin Zhenzhen still issued a warning to the troupe owner before departing.
¡°Don¡¯t think that I¡¯ll let you off the hook just because you¡¯re retreating!¡±
¡°God is watching over you, and you will face the consequences if you engage in any wrongdoing! ¡±
Even if they couldn¡¯t be immediately punished, it was satisfying to know that they wouldn¡¯t be able to sleep peacefully at night.
The troupe owner broke out in a cold sweat.
It was market day in town, and when Qin Zhenzhen and the others returned, it was already past lunchtime. Qin Dalong and the others had already eaten.
Qin Zhenzhen went to buy rice noodles and cooked them herself. She prepared lean meat and tommy noodles, garnished with scallions and spiritual water.
The aroma and taste were indescribably delicious.
Witnessing this, Su Qing realized he didn¡¯t want Qin Zhenzhen to leave their home.
He resolved to discuss with his brother and sister how to make their Third Brother fall in love with their Third Sister-inw.
He believed that if Third Brother expressed his feelings, Third Sister-inw would surely stay.
After all, Third Sister-inw held such deep affection for their Third Brother that nothing else seemed to matter..
Chapter 117 - 117: Applied
Chapter 117: Applied
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
present. The olddy informed him that they had gone into the mountains to dig yams.
Restless, Su Qing felt the urge to go to the mountains and speak with his brother and sister.
Qin Zhenzhen nced at his injured feet. ¡°You¡¯re injured and you want to climb the mountain? Do you expect your Second Brother to carry you down?¡± ¡°No¡¡± Su Qing felt a twinge of embarrassment.
Both of his feet were marked with whip scars, and the wounds had be swollen.
He could manage to walk on t ground, but once they ventured into the mountains, the wounds would inevitablye into contact with twigs. At that point, it might be difficult for him to descend.
¡°Just stay at home and don¡¯t trouble your Second Brother. I will gather some herbs for you to apply.¡±
Su Qing was taken aback. ¡°Third Sister-inw, you know how to treat injuries?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°I know how to handlemon wounds.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry, after applying the herbs, you¡¯ll definitely feel better. Perhaps you can go to the mountains tomorrow.¡±
With that, she headed to the field outside to find Mbar plum.
Mbar plum possessed hemostatic and anti-inmmatory properties. Combined with the spiritual water on her fingertips, it would surely aid in Su Qing¡¯s healing.
Mbar plum trees were abundant in the field, and Qin Zhenzhen quickly gathered a sizable amount.
Some vigers spotted her and greeted her from a distance, disying their friendly demeanor.
This was because she had discovered the yams and opened up a market for them.
The vigers from nearby viges now had an additional means of earning money.
In the eyes of the vigers, Qin Zhenzhen was akin to the God of Fortune.
¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife, what are you looking for them for?¡± a viger inquired.
Qin Zhenzhen proceeded to exin, ¡°This is Mbar plum, which can halt bleeding and reduce inmmation. It¡¯s often useful for minor cuts on the hands and feet, and it¡¯s the quickest remedy for stopping bleeding.¡± The vigers gathered around, curious to see.
¡°Really? It grows everywhere in the field. Isn¡¯t it easy to obtain?¡±
One viger identally cut his finger, causing it to bleed profusely.
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s advice, he instructed hispanions to fetch some Mbar plum.
Qin Zhenzhen provided them with instructions. ¡°Wash the Mbar plums and rub them until they release a ck medicinal juice. Then apply it to the wound and apply pressure. If the wound is deep, tie the plum to the affected area.¡± The man followed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s guidance, and the bleeding ceased. The vigers were ted. ¡°It¡¯s truly miraculous! It stops bleeding!¡±
¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife, you¡¯re so knowledgeable!¡±
¡°Yes, do you know about other medicinal herbs?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m familiar with many medicinal herbs. When Ie across them in the mountains, I¡¯ll inform everyone to gather them together.¡±
She had already discovered another medicinal herb in the mountains¡ªHairy Fig.
The roots of the Hairy Fig possessed properties that resisted grains, reduced inmmation, aided digestion, and cleared the liver and galldder.
Wine made from Hairy Figs could invigorate blood cirction, relieve bruises, moisturize the intestines, and alleviate coughs and wheezing.
Soup made with the nt and meat had the effect of enhancing the spleen, rxing the tendons, and soothing the nerves.
However, there was only a small quantity of the herb, and Qin Zhenzhen assured them that she would inform them when they were finished digging yams.
Grateful for Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s promise, the vigers smiled warmly.
¡°That would be wonderful!¡±
¡°Thank you, Su Bin¡¯s wife. You truly are our lucky charm!¡±
Upon returning home, Qin Zhenzhen washed the Mbar plum, chopped it into juice, and added a few drops of spiritual water to the medicinal extract.
¡°Just find a clean chicken feather, dip it in the medicinal juice, and apply it to the wound.¡±
¡°Repeat the application a few more times, and you¡¯ll recover faster..¡±
Chapter 118 - 118: Who Teached You
Chapter 118: Who Teached You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Qing was taken aback by the remarkable effectiveness of the herbs that Qin Zhenzhen had found for him. The swelling in his feet hadpletely disappeared after applying the herbs for the second time. It seemed almost magical to him.
In the midst of preparing dinner, Qin Zhenzhen received Su Qing¡¯s assistance. As he observed her, admiration for her grew within him, giving rise to a sudden glimmer of hope.
¡°Third Sister-inw, would you consider epting me as your disciple?¡± he asked earnestly.
Thinking he was joking, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°What is it that you wish to learn
Su Qing¡¯s expression was resolute as he responded, ¡°I want to learn the art of herb identification and the skill to save lives.
Qin Zhenzhen smiled, her tone gentle yet firm. ¡°Saving lives is not an easy task. It requires a great deal of effort. Besides, I am not a trained physician.¡±
In her previous life, she had primarily focused on physiotherapy and food therapy rather than traditional medicine.
Witnessing Su Qing¡¯s disappointment, Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°However, if you are interested in learning about medicinal herbs, I can certainly assist you. I can also teach you physiotherapy and food therapy.¡±
Anticipating that their true identities might be exposed, leading to their separation upon returning to the Duke Mansion, Qin Zhenzhen no longer concerned herself with Su Qing¡¯s thoughts at present.
A young man known for his ostentatious disys suddenly underwent a change of heart, surprising everyone.
Yet Su Qing¡¯s earnestness remained unwavering. He inquired, ¡°Third Sister-inw, could you exin what physiotherapy and food therapy entail?¡± Qin Zhenzhen turned towards Su Qing, her eyes filled with hope.
Initially, Qin Zhenzhen had refrained from borating, considering Su Qing¡¯s unpredictable nature and his possible fickleness. However, to her surprise, he persisted, pleading, ¡°Third Sister-inw, could you please enlighten me?¡± ¡°I had the opportunity to study at Cultivated Talent Wang¡¯s residence for two years, and even Cultivated Talent Wang himself acknowledged my intelligence,¡± Su Qing asserted confidently. ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry, I will grasp the concepts.¡±
¡°Alright.¡±
¡°Physical therapy, also known as nursing treatment, employs supplementary methods to achieve specific therapeutic effects on human ailments. It epasses various techniques such as massage, acupuncture, Qigong, guided treatments, and water therapy, all derived from traditional Chinese medicine.¡±
Su Qing listened attentively, absorbing the information. ¡°Third Sister-inw, do you possess knowledge of all these techniques?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded, her excitement evident. ¡°Indeed, I do!¡±
¡°Eating therapy, or food treatment, utilizes the inherent characteristics of food to regte bodily functions, promoting health and preventing illness. It employsmon foods in our daily lives, skillfully matched and meticulously prepared to maximize their natural effects.¡±
¡°The key aspect of food therapy lies in its ability to aid the body and stimte its self-healing capacities, thereby fostering holistic well-being from within.¡± ¡°Food is of utmost importance to humans. While we rely on consuming diverse foods for survival, we are also susceptible to illness. Food therapy distinguishes itself by not only treating ailments but also satiating hunger.¡±
¡°This concept aligns with the adage that ¡®food and medicinee from the same source.¡±¡®
Though Su Qing couldn¡¯t retain all of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s lengthy exnations, he grasped the underlying principles and admired her even more.
¡°Third Sister-inw, you possess extensive knowledge, do you also engage in reading?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen did not deny that. ¡°My father is an Elementary Level student, and my four brothers and I have been learning from him since we were young. I can read most books.¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw, I think you are better than a real doctor, but who taught
you all of these?¡±
Chapter 119 - 119: Hit
Chapter 119: Hit
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°If I tell you that the person that taught me doesn¡¯t allow me to reveal his name, would you believe me?¡±
Su Qing was startled. Then he said, ¡°I believe you. I shouldn¡¯t have asked this question.¡±
But then he asked worriedly, ¡°Third Sister-inw, does he have a rule that forbids you from teaching others?¡± Qin Zhenzhen smiled. ¡°No.¡±
Su Qing heaved a sigh of relief.
¡°That is great! Third Sister-inw, as long as you ept me as your disciple, I will definitely be able to learn it!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen said casually, ¡°I already said that if you want to learn, I will definitely teach you.¡¯
But what she had not expected was that Su Qing wanted to kneel on the ground and greet her.
Qin Zhenzhen helped him up.
¡°You don¡¯t have to give me this kind of greetings.¡±
She was a modern person and she was not interested in this kind of manners.
¡°Why?¡±
Su Qing suddenly thought of the reason why Third Sister-inw wanted to divorce Third Brother. So he asked.
¡°Third Sister-inw, is it because you want to divorce Third Brother, so you don¡¯t want to ept me as the disciple?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°That is not the reason. But I want to ask you one thing. You liked acting, didn¡¯t you? Why did you suddenly change your mind?¡±
She didn¡¯t like young people who were always fickle.
¡°Actually, there is more than one theater in the world. The owners of the troupes are not all disgusting people.¡±
Oh that was the reason¡. As Su Qing thought.
¡°Since I was a child, my dream has always been to study medicine.
Unfortunately, my family couldn¡¯t afford it, and neither could I,¡± he said.
¡°At the age of 10, I became enamored with opera,¡± he continued.
¡°There was a traveling troupe that set up a tent in our town to perform operas. We boys were invited to sing on stage, and the troupe owner praised my voice and looks, saying I had great potential to be famous in the world of opera.¡±
¡°But back then, I didn¡¯t have the courage to leave home, and my parents wouldn¡¯t have allowed it either. Otherwise, I would have left with the opera
pany.¡¯
¡°After my parents passed away, our family¡¯s financial situation got worse, and that¡¯s when I decided to join Feihong Theater, thinking that I could easily earn money by acting.¡±
¡°However, I never expected to run into something like this. Boss Zhang offered me a lot of money if I followed his instructions, but I refused toply.¡± ¡°I thought that by turning down Boss Zhang, everything would be fine. But he set me up for money¡¡±
¡°Now I understand why Third Brother didn¡¯t want me to join the acting ss, and I will never consider it again.¡±
¡°He¡¯d rather I stay at home and do farm work,¡± he added with determination. Qin Zhenzhen nodded understandingly, saying, ¡°I see.¡±
It seemed that he had learned his lesson the hard way. And that was because he had a very pretty face.
¡°In any case, if you truly want to learn, I will be more than willing to teach you.
However, I won¡¯t ept such grand gestures of greeting.¡±
At that moment, the three siblings gathered yams and headed back home.
With that, Qin Zhenzhen concluded the conversation.
Seeing Fourth Brother return home, Su Ning ran over with joy.
¡°Fourth Brother, what brings you here?¡± she asked.
However, her joy quickly turned to shock when she noticed the bloodstains on Su Qing¡¯s hands and feet, causing her to scream, ¡°Ah! Fourth Brother, who did this to you?¡±
Su Qing had to apply medicinal juice to the wounds, and as a result, her pants and sleeves were rolled up high, making the injuries visible to Su Ning.
Su Cheng and Su Qing also came to see what was happening.
Not wanting her siblings to know the real truth about what happened, Su Qing decided toe up with a lie. ¡°I got pped by someone while I was acting. They used a bit too much force.¡±
Su Ning felt a mix of heartache and anger.. ¡°How could someone dare to hit you like that?¡±
Chapter 120 - 120: One Way
Chapter 120: One Way
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Qing exined, ¡°He just wants to make the acting appear more realistic¡¡±
Seeing Su Ning¡¯s tears, she couldn¡¯t bear it. ¡°So, you have to endure being beaten during your performances. Fourth Brother, why don¡¯t you just quit the show?¡±
Third Brother didn¡¯t approve of it, but Fourth Brother was determined to pursue acting.
Su Qing nodded. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve decided not to return to the theater.¡±
Su Ning smiled in relief. ¡°Really? That¡¯s wonderful!¡±
However, Su Cheng could sense that something was still bothering Su Qing, so he asked her to join him in the study.
¡°Fourth Brother, what¡¯s really going on?¡± he inquired.
Su Qing proceeded to recount the whole story.
Hearing this, Su Ping¡¯s anger ignited, and he mmed the table with fury as if he could spit fire.
¡°That despicable scoundrel! How dare hey a finger on my Fourth Brother!¡±
¡°I¡¯ll find someone to teach him a lesson by chopping his manhood off!¡±
¡°And the troupe¡¯s owner too!¡±
But Su Qing tried to persuade him. ¡°Second Brother, don¡¯t act impulsively. Zhang is aware that many people wish him harm. Whenever he goes out, he¡¯s surrounded by over ten thugs, and he hasyers of guards at his home. If we seek revenge, it might put you at a disadvantage.¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw said she won¡¯t forgive those two wicked individuals!¡±
¡°The county office is gathering evidence of their crimes, and they will be punished.¡±
Gradually, Su Ping managed to calm himself down.
If it had been Qin Zhenzhen who told him about this, he would have believed her and agreed not to seek revenge privately. He wasn¡¯t sure if he could seed in taking revenge, and he realized he had been quite foolish in the past, thinking he was capable of anything.
He realized that he wasn¡¯t as skilled at teaching people a lesson as Qin Zhenzhen, even when dealing with someone like Qin Silong, who treated him as an enemy.
Su Qing mentioned that Qin Silong could take down one thug from the troupe without caring about the dozens of other men in the group.
Su Ping patted his fourth brother¡¯s shoulders reassuringly. ¡°That¡¯s a good decision! You can let go of the idea of joining the troupe. It¡¯s for the best!¡± Then, Su Qing shared what Qin Zhenzhen had said about finding herbs for him.
Finally, Su Qing exined his n.
¡°I want to learn from Third Sister-inw, and she has agreed to teach me.¡± Su Ping showed a surprised smile. ¡°She really agreed?¡±
Su Qing nodded. ¡°Yes, but she doesn¡¯t want to ept any gift from me. I¡¯m worried that after she divorces Third Brother, our families will be estranged..
¡°Second Brother, do you have any ideas to make Third Brother keep Third Sister-inw?¡±
This question gave him a headache.
¡°The problem is that not only does your Third Brother dislike Third Sister-inw, but she also dislikes him!¡±
They seemed to harbor mutual animosity, and it was challenging to find a solution.
But Su Qing had an idea. ¡°Don¡¯t tell Third Brother about me leaving the troupe. I¡¯ll tell him that if he treats Third Sister-inw well, I¡¯ll leave the show voluntarily!¡±
Su Ping shook his head. ¡°That won¡¯t work! You know your Third Brother well.
He doesn¡¯t respond well to threats.¡±
¡°If you approach it that way, he might misunderstand that Third Sister-inw made some deal with you.¡±
¡°And with anger in mind, he might divorce your Third Sister-inw immediately.¡±
Su Qing had no choice but cry out.
¡°I will talk with Fifth Brother and Sixth Sister and see if they have any other ideas.¡±
Su Ping convinced him. ¡°We can talk about this after your Third Brother finishes the examination.¡¯
¡°If your Third Brother makes it to Cultivated Talent, I am sure he will be grateful to your Third Sister-inw..¡±
Chapter 121 - 121: Tales
Chapter 121: Tales
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°By then, let Sixth Sister and the others tell Third Brother how much luck and prosperity Third Sister-inw has brought to our family. Let¡¯s see how Third Brother reacts,¡± Su Ping suggested, concerned that Su Qing might inadvertently spoil the n.
He wasn¡¯t entirely sure how to handle the situation, but he was convinced that Third Brother wouldn¡¯t consider divorcing Third Sister-inw until after the examination.
In half a month¡¯s time, anything could happen, and Third Brother¡¯s perspective might change just as theirs had.
Su Qing agreed, saying, ¡°Okay!¡±
Having promised his Second Brother, Su Qing still felt the need to have a lengthy discussion with his siblings.
In the end, the three siblings decided to persuade Third Brother to keep Third Sister-inw at home.
The next morning, Su Ning and Su Cheng headed to the mountains to dig yams.
Qin Zhenzhen had gone to the town, leaving Su Ning and Su Cheng with arge patch of yam fields to take care of.
They began by cutting away the yam vines and clearing the area of other vegetation. Even though it was a public mountain, nobody would dare steal the yams when the vines were cleared.
Some vigers who heard about it early, like Su Ning and the others, targeted the areas with more yams and richer soil for easier digging.
The vigers who arrivedter had to venture further away.
Su Ning and Su Cheng had a n. After digging the yams, they would rent the yam beans on the yam vines, as Qin Zhenzhen had exined that they were the seeds for future yams.
Wild yams could only be dug after three or four years, but those they nted themselves could be harvested in just two or three years.
If possible, they could even start nting herbs in the surroundings.
Although Second Brother could not stay at home for a long time, Fourth Brother was no longer in the theater. When Fourth Brother¡¯s legs recovered, they would have one more helper.
As long as they were willing to work hard, their life would definitely get better and better.
Thinking of this, Su Ning felt so happy that she did not feel tired at all.
The swelling on Su Qing¡¯s feet had subsided, but Qin Zhenzhen still asked him to stay at home.
¡°You have not fully recovered from the wound on your leg. You should stay away from the mountain.¡±
Actually, Su Qing had a lot of things to do at home. He needed to wash the yams he dug back, slice them and dry them.
He stayed at home and worked, thinking that he could ask Third Sister-inw about medical treatment.
When Qin Zhenzhen returned from the town, she bought many raw materials for seasoning.
As Qin Zhenzhen was busy making seasonings, she couldn¡¯t go into the mountains with the others.
Qin Silong hade to help with the seasoning production, as per Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s request, and he also brought the pork.
Since they had other tasks to attend to and were already engaged in the seasoning business with equal profits, they decided not to join the yam digging.
Before renting the workshop, Qin Zhenzhen had initially thought about bringing the raw materials back to her mother¡¯s home. However, she worried that her grandmother might inquire too much, so she sought help from her Fourth Brother at the Su Family.
Qin Zhenzhen had already made ns for her future. Before divorcing Su Bin, she intended to establish her own workshop for making seasonings, soy sauces, and various sweet, spicy, sour, and salty sauces.
Once the workshop was ready, she could either move in or live nearby, making it easier for her to stay at the Su Family and avoid conflicts with her grandmother.
She didn¡¯t want her grandma to be so suspicious of her, so she tried to find ways to maintain a harmonious rtionship.
However, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s actions in the town became more and more legendary, and her reputation spread throughout Datong Town.
Grandma Qin rarely left home, but she seemed to know everything that was happening..
Chapter 122 - 122: The Su Family
Chapter 122: The Su Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Grandma Qin was feeling extremely anxious. While Qin Zhenzhen was already running a sessful food business in town, her expansion into the seasoning business had been even more prosperous, reaching the county level.
She heard from her fourth grandson that Qin Zhenzhen was going to make arge amount of seasonings, and she even asked her fourth brother to rent a
workshop for her.
Soon, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s seasonings would go further and further, and sooner orter, she would reach the capital and attract the attention of people there.
That was not what Grandma Qin wanted to see.
The past that had been locked inside her head for more than 40 years was still vivid in her mind.
Grandma Qin was deeply concerned about her children and grandchildren getting involved in any inhumane schemes. She desperately wanted to talk to Qin Zhenzhen about her expanding seasoning business, but circumstances prevented them from meeting in person.
Initially, Grandma Qin had thought about asking her fourth grandson to bring Qin Zhenzhen back home, hoping to dissuade her from continuing with the sale of seasonings. However, she was unsure about how to approach the conversation and convince Qin Zhenzhen to reconsider her ns.
As for whether to reveal the past events to Qin Zhenzhen, Grandma Qin was still undecided and chose to keep that burden to herself for the time being.
Meanwhile, Qin Silong had been assisting the Su Family for two consecutive days. On their way home one evening, Qin Silong asked Qin Zhenzhen in a hushed voice, ¡°What about tomorrow¡¯s n?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded with determination, reassuring him, ¡°We will do as we agreed!¡±
In the original book, after Su Bin¡¯s disqualification, he became increasingly desperate, searching everywhere for evidence to clear his name. Unfortunately, during this time, a series of misfortunes befell him.
In a separate storyline, Su Bin¡¯s brother-inw, Wang Yizhi, had be a Cultivated Talent studying in the prefectural city. He found favor with the plump daughter of a rich businessman due to his good looks and literary talent. However, being financially challenged, Wang Yizhi intended to marry the wealthy businessman¡¯s daughter so he could continue his studies without worry.
The situation took a dark turn when the rich businessman¡¯s daughter asked Wang Yizhi to divorce his wife first. In response to this demand, Wang Yizhi devised a vicious n. He used his wife, Su Lan, of having an affair with a man from the same vige, which tragically led her to hang herself.
When Su Bin and his sister rushed to the scene from the county, they were devastated to find that it was already the next day, and Su Lan was lying in her coffin. Tragically, their niece, a four-year-old, had also drowned in an ident on the same day as her mother¡¯s death.
Upon discovering the truth behind these events, Su Bin sought vengeance, not only against his brother-inw¡¯s family, who had gained positions as county officers, but also the children of rich businessmen. As a consequence, they were exiled andter beheaded, leaving no one behind.
Su Bin¡¯s motive was painfully straightforward. At that time, the rich businessman¡¯s family was well aware that Wang Yizhi had a wife and daughter, yet callously disregarded their lives and still sought to secure a connection with the family.
This heartless pursuit was a grave sin, and while the book did not provide detailed descriptions of these plots or specify exact dates, Qin Zhenzhen knew that these events urred after Su Bin¡¯s disqualification.
Fortunately, Qin Silong¡¯s rebirth granted him clear memories of past events in the nearby viges. He vividly recalled the date and time of Su Lan¡¯s tragic death, which was set for the 10th of August, the following day.
Upon discovering that Su Lan was framed for having an affair, the n hinged on Qin Zhenzhen and the others arriving at the Wang Vige the next morning to prevent this dreadful tragedy.
To avoid arousing suspicion, they were well-prepared and had acquired this knowledge beforehand. They carefully nned to reveal Wang Yizhi¡¯s conspiracy at the right moment when Su Lan faced false usations.
The oue wouldrgely depend on Su Lan¡¯s response. If she dared to divorce her family, it would greatly ease their efforts to bring her back to the Su Family..
Chapter 123 - 123: Su Bin’s Right Wife
Chapter 123: Su Bin¡¯s Right Wife
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong couldn¡¯t sleep well that night, his mind burdened with thoughts that kept him awake. Consequently, he rose early in the morning.
After breakfast, they set off for Wang Vige.
Upon arriving, Qin Silong found Su Ping and his siblings already busy digging yams in the mountains. To his surprise, even Su Qing had joined them, and his wounds had fully healed.
Meanwhile, Qin Zhenzhen remained alone at home, which was what they had discussed previously. Qin Silong knew he couldn¡¯t let the hot-tempered man apany them; it would onlyplicate matters. He also decided that Su Qing, Su Ning, and Su Cheng should not go along as they would only be a hindrance. They would have to wait until everyone was in the mountains before they could address the situation and craft a usible story.
After some time, Qin Zhenzhen and Fourth Brother hurriedly made their way to Wang Vige.
As they reached the vige, a chatty woman from the neighborhood warmly greeted Qin Zhenzhen and inquired, ¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife, are you going back to your mother¡¯s home with your brother?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°No, I¡¯m not going to my mother¡¯s home. I have some business to attend to in Wang Vige.¡±
The gossiping woman¡¯s curiosity piqued even more at the mention of Wang
Vige. ¡°Are you going to Su Lan¡¯s house in Wang Vige?¡±
As neighbors, they all knew about the marital arrangements of every family, and this chatty woman was no exception. She clearly remembered that Su Lan had married into the Wang Family, and her husband had be a Cultivated Talent, continuing his studies in the prefecture. Rumors had it that Su Lan worked diligently at home, embroidering at night and saving all the money she earned for her husband.
Su Lan continued to smile, still dreaming about bing the wife of an officer.
Qin Zhenzhen confirmed, ¡°Yes, Fourth Brother and I are going to Su Bin¡¯s elder sister¡¯s home in Wang Vige.¡±
The gossipingdies couldn¡¯t resist the allure of gossip. One of them asked,
¡°You¡¯re going with your Fourth Brother? Did something happen?¡±
This was precisely the response Qin Zhenzhen had hoped for. She began fabricating a story, ¡°Yes, something happened, and we need to go and check on it. ¡±
The gossipingdies were eager for more details, so one of them probed, ¡°What happened? Can you tell me what¡¯s making you so anxious? Maybe I can help with some ideas.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen dly obliged and started sharing the story, ¡°Last night, Fourth Brother overheard that Su Bin¡¯s brother-inw had returned home, and they had a heated argument. Things escted, and the brother-inw even hit Su Bin¡¯s sister.¡±
The gossiping woman was taken aback, ¡°What? Are you saying you¡¯re standing up for Su Lan?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded firmly, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s true.¡±
¡°I¡¯m not sure how serious the situation is, and all the brothers are in the mountains, so it will take time to get them back. That¡¯s why I want to go there first and assess the situation.¡±
¡°But my Fourth Brother is worried that I, being a woman, might be vulnerable, so he wants to apany me for protection.¡±
¡°In any case, we¡¯re on our way there now.¡±
¡°Please, keep this information to yourself; we don¡¯t want it spreading identally.¡±
The gossiping woman assured her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Su Bin¡¯s wife, I understand! I won¡¯t say a word!¡±
As Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong walked away, the gossiping woman quickly found another woman to share the story with, and soon enough, the news spread throughout the vige.
¡°Su Bin is lucky to have such a capable wife!¡±
¡°That¡¯s right. She used her dowries to benefit the Su Family and helped the entire vige make money.¡±
¡°Now, when she heard about her elder sister being mistreated by her brother-inw, she rushed to help immediately..¡±
Chapter 124 - 124: Rescue at the Wang Village
Chapter 124: Rescue at the Wang Vige
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Around lunchtime, the news of the incident had spread to the mountains where the brother and sister were working.
Hearing everything, tears welled up in Su Ning¡¯s eyes, and he asked, ¡°Is that real?¡±
Su Ping replied with anger, ¡°I¡¯m afraid it is true!¡±
When their brother-inw first married their Elder Sister, he treated her kindly. However, as time passed, she aged prematurely from theborious work she endured without any time for personal care. Their brother-inw began to look down on her, even going to the extent of sleeping in separate beds, iming she distracted him from his studies. This information came from their four-year-old niece.
Su Ning couldn¡¯t contain his emotions and broke into tears. ¡°Our Elder Sister toils in the fields every day and embroiderste into the night, all to earn enough money for her husband¡¯s education. But instead of appreciation, she receives beatings and scolding from him!¡±
Su Ping could not stand that any more. He started to pack the yams home.
¡°I will go and take a look at Elder Sister¡¯s home. If that happens¡ I will not allow Elder Sister to be bullied for nothing!¡±
Though Qin Silong looked at him as if he were his enemy, yet he was willing to support his sister with Third Sister-inw, which made the rumor even more true!
Elder Sister must have been beaten so badly that the news was spread all the way here.
Qin Silong was there, and as the younger brother, he should be there, too. Su Qing also put away the yams. ¡°Second Brother, I will go with you!¡±
¡°Okay!¡±
Su Ping did not object. He told Su Ning and Su Cheng about these as well.
¡°You two, don¡¯t follow us. You won¡¯t be of any help. Be careful and don¡¯t stay outside for too long. Dig more yams and we will call it a day. Just wait for our news at home¡±
Su Ning nodded obediently. ¡°Got it.¡±
¡°Second Brother, Fourth Brother, you have to protect Elder Sister!¡±
After Qin Zhenzhen had made the announcement, she and her Fourth Brother set off for Wang Vige.
She estimated that the rumor would reach the mountains by lunchtime.
Yam digging was aborious task, and one adult could barely manage to dig 50 KG in a day. To save time, they all brought rations for lunch and continued working in the mountains.
By the time they arrived at the Wang Vige, she and her brother would have saved Su Lan.
To avoid being recognized, Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong donned bamboo hatsmonly worn by farmers. These hats covered half of their faces when lowered.
Upon arriving at Wang Vige, Qin Zhenzhen used the original host¡¯s memory to find Wang Yi¡¯s home but kept some distance from it.
Qin Silong informed her that Wang Yizhi¡¯s neighbor was a bachelor in his 40s who had no family and only had to support himself. He was unpopr in the vige due to his unattractive appearance and hooligan behavior. He was known to frequent brothels.
Wang Yizhi had schemed with this man to set up a n. He tricked Su Lan into borrowing something from the hooligan¡¯s home, and then the man tried to take advantage of her, leading to Wang Yizhi and the vigers catching them in the act. This incident apparently led Wang Yizhi to write the divorce letter in anger.
However, Wang Yizhi probably hadn¡¯t anticipated that Su Lan would hang herself at the Wang Family¡¯s home or that their daughter would drown.
Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong were hiding near that hooligan¡¯s home.
After a while, they saw Su Lan arriving at the door of that hooligan¡¯s home.
¡°Brother Wang, do you have a hammer at home? Can I borrow it?¡±
Chapter 125 - 125: Our Private Matters
Chapter 125: Our Private Matters
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Lan stopped in front of the hooligan¡¯s home. ¡°Brother Wang, do you have a hammer at home? Can I borrow it for my man?¡±
The hooligan answered from inside the room. ¡°Yes, juste in and get it.¡±
Su Lan hesitated for a moment but eventually decided to step into the hooligan¡¯s home.
At the same time, Qin Silong had already climbed over the wall and walked into the hooligan¡¯s home. Qin Zhenzhen followed quietly behind Su Lan.
Hearing the approaching footsteps, the hooligan hid behind the door, realizing that Su Lan had entered.
Believing that Su Lan was a weak woman and no match for him, the hooligan nned to cover her mouth, ce her on the bed, and undress her before Wang Yizhi arrived, catching them in the act.
Filled with anticipation, the hooligan waited for Su Lan toe closer.
¡°Brother Wang, where is the hammer?¡± Su Lan asked as she slowed down.
¡°The iron hammer is inside,e and get it yourself,¡± the hooligan replied, suppressing his excitement.
Su Lan, unaware of her husband¡¯s deal with the man, did not suspect anything. As she approached the door, the hooligan suddenly lunged forward, covering her mouth.
Terrified, Su Lan couldn¡¯t call for help and struggled in vain as the hooligan restrained her. However, just as the hooligan was about to drag her onto the bed, Qin Zhenzhen appeared and delivered a swift kick to the hooligan¡¯s groin.
¡°Ah¡¡± The hooligan screamed in agony, doubling over in pain.
Qin Zhenzhen took the opportunity to pull Su Lan over to her side.
Su Lan was still in shock. She was about to run out when Qin Zhenzhen stopped her.
¡°Elder Sister, are you going to drop it when you are bullied by him?¡± Only now did Su Lan realize that it was Qin Zhenzhen who saved her.
¡°Third Sister-inw, what are you doing here?¡±
Su Lan listened intently to what her Third Sister-inw had done. She used to despise Qin Zhenzhen, but now she felt grateful for her timely intervention.
If Qin Zhenzhen hadn¡¯t appeared when she did, the consequences would have been unimaginable.
Qin Zhenzhen exined, ¡°I came here to look for you and saw you entering this room.¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t know why you wanted to enter, but my Fourth Brother warned me that the man in this room has a bad reputation. I was worried for your safety, so I followed you in.¡±
Stammering, Su Lan responded, ¡°I came to borrow the iron hammer for your brother-inw. But he¡
Understanding the situation, Qin Zhenzhen interrupted, ¡°I know. Fourth
Brother knows him well. He¡¯s up to no good!¡±
She was about to kick the hooligan again, who had just recovered from the pain. Seeing her intent, he quickly defended himself.
Su Lan pulled at Qin Zhenzhen, urging, ¡°Third Sister-inw, let¡¯s go outside¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen called out to the door, ¡°Fourth Brother,e in!¡±
Qin Silong appeared before them.
Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°Fourth Brother, this man tried to bully our Elder Sister, but I arrived just in time. You should teach him a lesson!¡±
Qin Silong rolled up his sleeves. ¡°Alright!¡±
The hooligan backed away in fear. ¡°I¡¯ve already been kicked by her¡ It¡¯s our private business. What does it have to do with you?¡±
He thought that Wang Yizhi would bring some people in. If he imed that he and Su Lan had a secret rtionship, he believed Wang Yizhi would pay him a substantial amount of money..
Chapter 126 - 126: No Proof
Chapter 126: No Proof
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen acted as if she hadn¡¯t heard the hooligan¡¯s words.
¡°What did you say? I don¡¯t understand!¡± she replied, pretending to be clueless.
Unfazed, the hooligan repeated fearlessly, ¡°I¡¯m telling you, you¡¯ve got it all wrong! Su Lan and I have been together for a long time. If you know what¡¯s good for her, you better act like you don¡¯t know anything. Otherwise, things might turn ugly for her¡¡¯
He had overheard that one of them was Su Lan¡¯s sister-inw, and the other was her brother.
Though uncertain about why these two individuals suddenly appeared, the hooligan aimed to deceive them for the time being. He hoped that when Wang Yizhi and his aplices arrived to catch them in the act, everything would work out in his favor.
Initially confused, Su Lan began toprehend the hooligan¡¯s words, pointing a trembling finger at him. ¡°You¡ you¡¯re talking nonsense!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry, Elder Sister. We won¡¯t believe a word he says!¡± Qin Zhenzhen reassured her, exchanging a knowing look with her Fourth Brother.
Qin Silong barked angrily at the hooligan, ¡°Who gave you the audacity to spew such lies?¡±
¡°Do you really think we¡¯d fall for this nonsense? Even if you had some secret rtionship with Su Lan, you wouldn¡¯t dare to meet like this in broad daylight!¡±
¡°Now, tell me, who put you up to this foolish act?¡±
Realizing that time was of the essence, Qin Silong devised a tactic to deal with the captive who refused to tell the truth.
He firmly restrained the hooligan and applied pressure to a sensitive area, causing the hooligan immense humiliation and pain. He wanted the hooligan to divulge the truth.
Feeling as if Qin Silong were pulling at his internal organs, the hooligan¡¯s screams were stifled by the rags Qin Silong had stuffed into his mouth.
The intense torture nearly pushed the hooligan to the brink of unconsciousness. Seeing this, Qin Silong ceased the torment momentarily.
Drenched in sweat and writhing in agony, the hooligan couldn¡¯t help but plead with Qin Silong, promising to speak the truth, fearing another round of torture.
The hooligan was desperate to avoid any further torture. Qin Silong¡¯s methods were excruciating, and he knew he couldn¡¯t endure more.
Upon hearing that hooligan¡¯s confession, Su Lan couldn¡¯t believe her ears. She lunged at him, attempting to silence him.
¡°You¡¯re crazy! My husband is not like this! Stop spewing nonsense!¡± Su Lan shouted, her emotions running wild.
Tears streaming down his face, the hooligan insisted, ¡°I¡¯m telling the truth. Wang Yizhi is marrying a wealthy woman, and he intends to leave you. He¡¯ll catch you in the act and divorce you on the spot¡¡¯
The shocking revtion almost made Su Lan faint.
Qin Zhenzhen helped her up and retrieved a small ck pill-like object. ¡°Fourth Brother, give this to him. If he dares to challenge Wang Yizhiter, let him experience the torture again.¡±
¡°Alright!¡± Qin Silong agreed.
Taking hold of the hooligan¡¯s chin, Qin Silong forced the pill into his mouth, then tapped his neck to make sure the pill went down.
The hooligan¡¯s face turned pale in fear.
At that moment, footsteps could be heard approaching from outside.
¡°Mom, are you sure you saw Su Lan entering this room?¡± It was Wang Yizhi¡¯s voice.
¡°Yes, I saw her with my own eyes. I can¡¯t believe what she¡¯s doing in there. She was looking around anxiously before entering, as if she feared being caught.. ¡® Su Lan recognized her mother-inw¡¯s voice.
A gossipy woman¡¯s voice chimed in, ¡°So you¡¯re saying Su Lan¡¡±
The woman¡¯s sentence was left unfinished, but she had already assumed that Su Lan and the hooligan were having an affair.
¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense without evidence!¡±
That was Wang Yizhi¡¯s voice.
At this moment, Su Lan understood everything.
Her husband, Wang Yizhi, had asked her to borrow the hammer from this ce, but he pretended that he had no idea where she was!
Chapter 127 - 127: Struck to Death
Chapter 127: Struck to Death
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
What Hooligan said was true!
She had worked tirelessly for her husband¡¯s family, but look at her situation now!
Su Lan couldn¡¯t bear it any longer. She closed her eyes, feeling like she was about to copse, when Qin Zhenzhen rushed to her side and caught her.
¡°Elder Sister, you must stay strong. You have Xiaoyu to take care of,¡± Qin Zhenzhen urged, referring to Su Lan¡¯s daughter.
Thinking of her daughter, Su Lan opened her eyes and nodded determinedly.
¡°Yes, I need to raise my daughter¡¡±
At that moment, Wang Yizhi and a few others entered the room.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s uncle was the first to ask, ¡°Hooligan, are you at home?¡±
Qin Silong, who was nicknamed ¡°Hooligan,¡± weakly answered, ¡°Yes¡¡±
The group of people filed in, including Wang Yizhi, his mother, and two men and two women.
Wang Yizhi was taken aback upon seeing Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong. He recognized them both.
Curious as to why the siblings were there, he spoke out, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±
Amidst the tension, Su Lan¡¯s mother-inw suddenly lunged at her with intentions of pping her.
Qin Zhenzhen swiftly pushed the old woman¡¯s hands away and retorted,
¡°Watch yournguage! Show some respect!¡±
The old woman demanded angrily, ¡°Who are you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied calmly, ¡°I am Su Bin¡¯s wife, and he is my Fourth Brother. This woman here is our Elder Sister.¡±
The old woman scoffed dismissively and decided to put on a dramatic performance, making a scene on the ground.
¡°How dare you! My daughter-inw is a home-wrecker, and now your sister-inw is backing her up with her brothers! How humiliating! I don¡¯t want to live any more!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle as she watched the old woman putting on a show.
It was no surprise that Su Bin had shown no mercy to Wang Yizhi¡¯s family after gaining power; they seemed to have their fair share of faults.
Wang Yizhi, being a sessful schr who made it to Cultivated Talent, was far from stupid. He was determined to find out why Qin Zhenzhen and her brother were present.
However, his mother¡¯s anxiety prevented any immediate action.
Wang Yizhi observed Hooligan, who sat there lethargically, as if they had discussed this situation before.
Deciding to start with Su Lan, he asked coldly, ¡°Why are you in his room?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen held Su Lan¡¯s hands firmly,forting her. ¡°Elder Sister, don¡¯t be afraid. Just tell the truth; you still have us!¡±
Recalling Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words and thinking of her daughter, Su Lan summoned the courage to defend herself. Nheless, a woman who had endured mistreatment from her husband¡¯s family for so long remained fragile.
Before she could reply, Su Lan began to cry.
¡°You asked me to borrow the iron hammer from his home, and now you¡¯re pretending as if nothing happened. Are you trying to set me up?¡±
In a fit of anger, Wang Yizhi raised his hand as if to strike Su Lan. ¡°You bitch, what are you talking about?¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t about to let him get away with it.
Before he couldy a hand on Su Lan, Qin Silong stepped in, pushing Wang Yizhi away.
Qin Zhenzhen pointed at Wang Yizhi, her voice sharp. ¡°You call yourself a man, yet you would hit a woman? Shame on you!¡±
¡°Do you really think I don¡¯t know that my Elder Sister make money on embroidery for your sake? Instead of showing any gratitude, you have the audacity to raise your hand against her. Aren¡¯t you afraid of divine retribution, being struck to death by lightning?¡±
Wang Yizhi felt his face burn with embarrassment as Qin Zhenzhen scolded him.
The other four men and women who were called to apprehend the alleged adulterous couple exchanged bewildered nces, taken aback by the situation.
Wang Yizhi turned on hooligan, his anger apparent. ¡°Hooligan, tell me the truth! Did you do something shameful with Su Lan?¡±
Su Lan, now in tears, felt an overwhelming urge to retaliate against Wang
Yizhi¡¯s usations.. ¡°Wang Yizhi, you¡¯re asking for divine punishment!¡±
Chapter 128 - 128: Unreasonable
Chapter 128: Unreasonable
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Wang Yizhi¡¯s mother helped her son up from the ground. ¡°Su Lan, you traitor!
The Wang Family is going to divorce you!¡±
To Wang Yizhi¡¯s surprise, the hooligan then offered him five liang.
¡°I don¡¯t want your money. I refuse to assist you in doing anything immoral,¡± Wang Yizhi firmly stated.
The four individuals who hade to catch the alleged adulterer were taken aback.
Wang Yizhi, feeling panicked, asked, ¡°What on earth are you talking about? Have you gone mad?¡±
The hooligan replied, ¡°I¡¯m not talking nonsense, nor am I mad. I¡¯ve simply developed a conscience and won¡¯t take part in your vile ns.¡±
The hooligan proceeded to share the details of his earlier discussion with Wang Yizhi, revealing everything.
Just then, the three brothers arrived.
Su Qing hade with Su Qing, but upon returning home, Su Bin was already back from the county.
Su Bin joyfully informed the family that he had achieved first ce in the county examination, prompting a celebration.
Su Bin recounted how Qin Zhenzhen and her brother had gone to his sister¡¯s home.
Upon hearing the hooligan¡¯s revtions, Su Bin and the others grasped the situation clearly.
They then inquired about Su Lan¡¯s well-being and, unable to contain his anger,
Su Bin pped Wang Yizhi. ¡°You despicable scoundrel! You are no schr!¡±
Nobody intervened, as even Qin Silong believed that Wang Yizhi deserved the punishment.
However, as Wang Yizhi was a Cultivated Talent, beating him could result in awsuit.
Despite his swollen face, Wang Yizhi threatened, ¡°I am a Cultivated Talent, and you dare to hit me without knowing the full story?¡±
¡°So what if you are a Cultivated Talent? I don¡¯t care!¡± Su Bin walked over and also pped Wang Yizhi.
Su Bin had contemted the situation carefully. His elder sister couldn¡¯t stay with the Wang Family any longer. They were an unscrupulous bunch, conspiring to frame his sister. If they seeded, the distress might drive her to suicide.
Wang Yizhi, still covering his swollen face, retorted, ¡°I am your brother-inw! How dare youy a hand on me¡¡±
Before he could finish speaking, Su Qing pped him as well. ¡°You are not worthy! You are worse than a beast!¡±
For some inexplicable reason, Su Lan found the courage to p her husband¡¯s face too.
Observing her son getting beaten, Wang Yizhi¡¯s mother appeared ready to retaliate, but Qin Zhenzhen and her brother stopped her.
The old woman snapped, ¡°How dare you hit a Cultivated Talent¡¯s brother-inw? Don¡¯t think that we won¡¯t report this to the authorities just because you are rted!¡±
Su Bin looked at them coldly. ¡°Go ahead, report this to the authorities! We¡¯ll see what happens!¡±
He was confident that with Qin Zhenzhen and her brother¡¯s support, they had a good chance of prevailing.
He refused to believe that Wang Yizhi¡¯s Cultivated Talent status would protect him once this matter was brought to light.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s mother grew fearful upon seeing the determination in Su Bin¡¯s eyes. She swallowed the harsh words she had been about to utter.
The four people Wang Yizhi had brought to catch the alleged adulterers exchanged nces among themselves. They were hesitant to believe this turn of events.
However, the hooligan¡¯s offer of money was undeniable evidence.
As themotion in the room escted, more onlookers gathered to witness the unfolding drama.
Upon learning the truth, the crowd started discussing among themselves.
¡°Wang Yizhi is despicable!¡±
¡°Their n was to set up Su Lan in this way! Aren¡¯t they afraid of driving her into a dead end?¡±
¡°He does all of these just for his own sake! When your conscience is gone, you can do anything you want!¡±
Chapter 129 - 129: My Daughter’s Proof
Chapter 129: My Daughter¡¯s Proof
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
However, the vigers didn¡¯t directly confront Wang Yizhi.
Having a Cultivated Talent in the vige was a rare privilege. If he advanced to be an Advanced Schr, he could potentially be an officer, bringing honor to the vige and benefiting everyone.
With this in mind, Wang Yizhi managed topose himself and angrily used the hooligan, saying, ¡°How dare you set me up like this!¡±
Then he turned to his mother. ¡°Mom, get the vige chief here to deal with this!¡±
Since they were both descendants of the same great-grandfather, the vige chief would undoubtedly support him.
As long as he didn¡¯t admit to asking Su Lan for the hammer and instead imed that the hooligan had framed him, he might be able to turn the situation in his favor.
A man informed him, ¡°The chief is here.¡¯
The vige chief arrived with four men from his family, ready to protect Wang Yizhi.
¡°What¡¯s happening here?¡± inquired the vige chief, a man in his 50s who carried an authoritative aura despite not holding an official position.
Qin Zhenzhen and the others didn¡¯t bother responding, knowing the vige chief would listen to Wang Yizhi first.
Sure enough, the vige chief asked Wang Yizhi. ¡°Yizhi, you go first.¡±
As expected, the vige chief asked Wang Yizhi, ¡°Yizhi, you speak first.¡±
Wang Yizhi vehemently denied asking Su Lan to borrow the hammer from the hooligan¡¯s home, spinning a web of lies.
He continued, ¡°It¡¯s nearly lunchtime, and Su Lan isn¡¯t home to prepare lunch. My daughter was crying, so I asked her where your mother was. She cried back, saying she was at Uncle Wang¡¯s house, and she didn¡¯t want her there because she found her bothersome!¡±
¡°When I realized that the ¡®Uncle Wang¡¯ my daughter mentioned was the hooligan, I became furious. After all, everyone in the vige avoided him!¡±
¡°But Su Lan encouraged the child to call him uncle, and she even went to his home alone. It seems they have a special rtionship!¡±
¡°You¡ you!¡± Su Lan lost control and was about to strike Wang Yizhi.
However, Qin Zhenzhen intervened, saying, ¡°Elder Sister, let the vige chief conduct the interrogation one by one. If you ask him now, just wait until he finishes.
Qin Zhenzhen sensed that Su Bin and his brothers supported the divorce; otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have pped Wang Yizhi.
He urged Wang Yizhi to continue fabricating lies, wanting Su Lan to see his
true character. The more lies Wang Yizhi concocted, the more likely Su Lan would be to give up on him.
Only when her heart was shattered would Su Lan be willing to seek a divorce.
A divorce was the only way to salvage Su Lan¡¯s miserable life.
Su Bin and his brothers shared the same perspective as Qin Zhenzhen, so they didn¡¯t stop Wang Yizhi from continuing.
Wang Yizhi shamelessly carried on with his fabrications.
¡°I was so furious that I confronted Su Lan about it. My mother had just returned from work and told me that Su Lan had been in the hooligan¡¯s room.¡±
¡°I became so angry that I came here with my mother and the others to see what was happening. And there I found Su Lan, disheveled clothes, messy hair ¨C she must have done something terrible!¡±
Wang Yizhi¡¯s mother supported his version of events as well.
Subsequently, the vige chief questioned both Su Lan and the hooligan.
Su Lan told the truth, and the hooligan, fearing torture, also confessed honestly. With the five liang on the table, the evidence was conclusive.
Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong corroborated what had urred.
Despite this, the vigers remained silent, merely observing the situation.
No one used Wang Yizhi of framing the hooligan.
The vige chief found himself in a predicament, not wanting to me Wang Yizhi directly, yet also reluctant to offend Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong.
He was well aware that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s uncle held a position as a constable in the county office. If this matter were to be reported to the governmental office, Wang Yizhi¡¯s status as a Cultivated Talent could be at risk.
After contemting the situation, the vige chief subtly nced at Wang
Yizhi and asked, ¡°Yizhi, could there be some misunderstanding?¡±
Confused by the chief¡¯s question, Wang Yizhi believed he still had a chance of winning, especially since the vigers had remained silent.
¡°No, there¡¯s definitely no misunderstanding! I can even have my daughter serve as a witness!¡±
Chapter 130 - 130: Ojn Zhenzhen’s Abilities
Chapter 130: Ojn Zhenzhen¡¯s Abilities
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°It must be because Su Lan and the hooligan are in a rtionship and want to be together forever. They concocted this story about me making a deal with him, hoping to tarnish my reputation and strip me of my title!¡± Wang Yizhi believed he was clever enough to counter their ims.
At that moment, Wang Yizhi¡¯s sister entered the room with her four-year-old daughter, Xiaoyu.
Wang Yizhi and his sister had devised a n. His sister coerced Xiaoyu into lying, iming that she had witnessed her mother and the hooligan in each other¡¯s arms. She threatened the little girl, saying she wouldn¡¯t feed her or her mother and even considered whipping her if she didn¡¯tply. To entice Xiaoyu to go along with her story, she gave the child a piece of candy.
Despite being just four years old, Xiaoyu was not naive. With the candy in her mouth, she knew not to say anything negative about her mother.
Wang Yizhi grabbed his daughter¡¯s hand and tried to coax her. ¡°Come on, sweetie, tell us what you told daddy earlier.¡±
Feeling a bit afraid of her father, who had a history of hitting her, Xiaoyu asked hesitantly, ¡°Dad, what should I say?¡±
Wang Yizhi red at her. ¡°You told me that you saw your mother with this uncle¡¡¯
Hearing what Wang Yizhi said, the vige chief couldn¡¯t help but cough, wanting to offer him an opportunity to retreat.
Xiaoyu was no fool. If she said anything incriminating about Wang Yizhi, he wouldn¡¯t be able to protect himself.
The vige chief swiftly intervened, taking Xiaoyu away from Wang Yizhi and gently stepping on his foot. ¡°Yizhi, she¡¯s only four years old. She doesn¡¯t understand adult matters. Don¡¯t put her in a difficult position.¡±
Finally, Wang Yizhi grasped the vige chief¡¯s intention.
He looked around. The vigers were all looking at him with disdain.
Xiaoyu took the opportunity to run to Su Lan¡¯s side.
Su Lan bent down and picked up her daughter.
Xiaoyu whispered into Su Lan¡¯s ears, revealing that her father and aunt had threatened her.
Hearing her daughter¡¯s words, Su Lan¡¯s heart sank, and she nced sadly at her brothers.
¡°Brother, if your sister, me, is wrongfully convicted, can you take Xiaoyu home to raise her?¡± Su Lan¡¯s heart was heavy with concern. The Wang Family had always favored boys over girls, and they had never shown much affection for her daughter. If anything happened to her, she feared Xiaoyu would not be treated well within the Wang Family.
Su Bin interjected firmly, ¡°We are here for you. They cannot wrong you.¡±
Su Lan found a glimmer of hope and asked again, ¡°If I get divorced, can I take Xiaoyu home?¡±
The three brothers answered in unison, ¡°Of course! You can stay with us for as long as you want. We are family!¡±
Su Bin continued, ¡°Sister, we all support you in getting a divorce!¡±
Overwhelmed with emotion, Su Lan burst into tears.
Qin Zhenzhen passed her a handkerchief, offeringfort. ¡°Elder Sister, please don¡¯t cry. We need evidence for everything. Their usations alone are not enough to convict you!¡±
Qin Silong added, ¡°But your brother is right. Instead of staying at the Wang Family and being manipted by them, you should divorce and lead a wonderful life with Xiaoyu!¡±
Su Lan turned to Qin Zhenzhen and asked, ¡°Third Sister-inw, you won¡¯t object to me living with you, will you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled warmly. ¡°I have no objections! You and Xiaoyu can live with us, and I will support you both. Together, we will show the world that women can live fulfilling lives without men.¡±
Encouraged by the support, Su Lan wiped away her tears with her sleeves.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but look at Qin Zhenzhen, reflecting on her words: women can live a wonderful life without men?
It sounded unusual to him, but he saw felt that Qin Zhenzhen might be able to reach it.
No matter what, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s encouragement meant the world to Su Lan, and Su Bin felt deeply grateful to her..
Chapter 131 - 131: The Wang Family
Chapter 131: The Wang Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
All eyes turned to Qin Zhenzhen, who seemed to hold a certain influence in the room.
The vige chief cleared his throat, capturing the attention of the vigers once again.
¡°Yizhi, I believe there must be some misunderstanding here. Su Lan has always been honest and hardworking; she would never do something like this.¡±
¡°The fault lies with this hooligan!¡±
The vige chief gave a stern look at the hooligan. ¡°Tell the truth, hooligan.
Who put you up to this? Did someone instruct you to frame Yizhi?¡±
Terrified, the hooligan began to cry. ¡°I¡¯ve already told you everything! I didn¡¯t set up Wang Yizhi! He paid me to do this for him, promising me 20 liang once it was done!¡±
The vige chief waved his hand dismissively. ¡°Tie him up! This hooligan is always causing trouble for food; he¡¯ll do anything for money!¡±
The four men behind him immediately rushed forward, subduing the hooligan.
Su Bin stood up, his voice cold as ice. ¡°Vige Chief Wang, are you trying to protect us?¡±
Hearing this, the hooligan turned pale and struggled to break free, to no avail.
He called out to Su Bin and the others, ¡°Come and save me! I will testify against Wang Yizhi in court!¡±
Though his surname was Wang, he had few rtives who were on good terms with him. In fact, no one in his n would dare offend the vige chief to defend him. He was a despised figure in the vige, disliked by everyone.
If the vige chief were to kill Wang Yizhi to protect him, the vigers would not object.
However, the hooligan did not want to die.
The vige chief exined to Su Bin, ¡°We¡¯re not going to kill a mad dog, but this is a family matter, and outsiders should not interfere.¡±
As a schr, Su Bin understood the implications of the vige chief¡¯s words.
Taking down Wang Yizhi would not be an easy task as they were up against a
powerful family.
The vige chief didn¡¯t intend to kill the hooligan, but he nned to administer medicine to make him mentally impaired, ensuring the n retained the only Cultivated Talent they had. If Wang Yizhi advanced to be an Advanced Schr, they would enjoy tax exemptions, making it worth sacrificing the hooligan.
¡°Don¡¯t worry, as I said before, Su Lan is not capable of such deeds. She would never do something like this, so she is innocent.¡±
¡°Both of you were hit, and the hooligan¡¯s face is still swollen. Let¡¯s drop this; it¡¯s all a misunderstanding.¡±
The vige chief gave Wang Yizhi a look. ¡°You should make a statement as well.¡±
Reluctantly, Wang Yizhiplied without wanting to disobey the chief¡¯s order, ¡°Su Lan, perhaps I misunderstood you. Everything is fine now. Take your daughter home.¡±
As long as Su Lan didn¡¯t push the matter further, he would be safe.
However, Su Lan responded coldly, ¡°Wang Yizhi, let¡¯s get a divorce. I will take Xiaoyu with me!¡±
Wang Yizhi was startled. He was about to say yes, when the vige chief stopped him.
Her unexpected proposal startled Wang Yizhi. He was about to agree when the vige chief intervened.
¡°Yizhi, can¡¯t you see that your wife is speaking out of anger? Anyone who faces suspicion from their own spouse would react this way!¡± The vige chief suspected that Wang Yizhi had read many useless books and thus devised this devious n to get rid of Su Lan, even using their daughter as a false witness.
Now, Su Lan was considering a divorce.
The vige chief realized that he needed to handle the situation carefully. If he could calm Su Lan and offer her hope, she might be willing to drop the matter.
If he agreed to divorce Su Lan, she might even want to report this to the governmental office!
He was confident that he could win thewsuit, but thewsuit would cost a lot of money, and the Wang Family could not afford that..
Chapter 132 - 132: Correct
Chapter 132: Correct
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Only now did Wang Yizhi attempt to console Su Lan.
¡°Lan, I am deeply sorry. It¡¯s all my fault. We won¡¯t go through with the divorce. Once I achieve a high ranking position, you will be recognized as the official¡¯s wife¡¡±
Su Bin shot a fierce look at Wang Yizhi.
¡°Stop manipting my sister!¡±
¡°If you don¡¯t want us to report this to the authorities, write the divorce papers!¡±
Su Bin had pondered the situation. Wang Yizhi had the backing of his influential family, and winning in court would be extremely challenging. So, he decided to have his sister initiate the divorce, just in case Wang Yizhi schemed against them once again.
As for revenge, he knew it wasn¡¯t toote.
He never imagined it would take another ten years before he could seek retribution.
Upon hearing Su Bin¡¯s words, the vige chief reconsidered. He turned to Su
Lan. ¡°Are you absolutely certain about the divorce? Your husband is a Cultivated Talent! ¡±
Su Lan nodded firmly. ¡°I will definitely divorce him!¡±
She couldn¡¯t bear to see Wang Yizhi any longer.
She regretted her blindness and devotion to a man who turned out to be so heartless!
The vige chief still appeared concerned. ¡°Are you sure you won¡¯t report this to the authorities?¡±
Su Bin responded coldly, ¡°Are you afraid of us reporting you?¡±
The vige chief retorted, ¡°Why should I be afraid of you reporting me?¡± Qin Zhenzhen stood by Su Bin¡¯s side and confronted Vige Chief Wang.
¡°You know very well whether you should be afraid or not! You must have heard about what happened to those who tried to frame Su Bin; they got what they deserved. I don¡¯t think you¡¯re luckier than the woman from the brothel!¡±
¡°So, if you want us to drop the case, you¡¯ll need to pay 100 liang aspensation, in addition to the divorce!¡±
The chief¡¯s and Wang Yizhi¡¯s faces immediately changed upon hearing the amount.
¡°100 liang? That¡¯s a robbery!¡± eximed Wang Yizhi.
Qin Zhenzhen responded with arrogance, ¡°And what if it is?¡±
¡°Wang Yizhi, don¡¯t think that no one knows about your deeds in the province. You¡¯ll have to face the consequences!¡± she added confidently.
Wang Yizhi was shocked and furious, wondering how she could be aware of his actions in the province. If she wasn¡¯t, she wouldn¡¯t be so certain that he had the money.
If she had not known about this, she would not have been sure that he had so much money with him.
A rich businessman¡¯s fat and ugly daughter fell for him. He also fell for the rich businessman¡¯s family¡¯s wealth. And he had not got a son.
He could not wait to hook up with the daughter of a rich businessman. That woman was very generous and offered 100 liang whenever she was pleased..
But the woman also made it clear that he was going to get rid of his wife at home, or she was going to teach him a lesson.
The day before he returned home, the woman told him that she was already pregnant with his child.
Realizing that he couldn¡¯t dy any longer, he sought the help of hooligans toe up with a n.
If Qin Zhenzhen exposed this information, it would ruin his future. Regardless of whether she knew the truth or not, he was willing to spend some money to make the problem disappear.
Wang Yizhi clenched his teeth. ¡°Su Lan, I¡¯ll write the divorce papers and get the money! You asked for this, don¡¯t regret it in the future!¡± he dered with bitterness before turning around and storming back home.
Everyone present was left in shock. Had they heard correctly?
Even the vige chief and Wang Yizhi¡¯s mother couldn¡¯t believe it. Wang Yizhi had agreed to provide 100 liang, but where did he suddenly get the money?
Qin Zhenzhen was equally surprised. She hadn¡¯t anticipated that Wang Yizhi would agree to her proposition. Her intentions were simr to Su Bin¡¯s ¨C she knew going to the authorities would be futile, so she aimed to protect Su Lan first and deal with Wang Yizhiter.
She was aware of the wealthy woman who had taken a liking to Wang Yizhi; she had both money and influence. If awsuit were filed, her family would likely bribe the County Magistrate with a substantial amount of money..
Chapter 133 - 133: No More Words
Chapter 133: No More Words
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Wang Yizhi hurried home to write the divorce paper, fearing that Su Lan would change her mind.
He only had one thought in mind ¨C as long as he divorced Su Lan, he would be able to exin everything well to the rich woman.
His mother and sister followed up behind him.
¡°Yi, are you really giving 100 liang to that bitch?¡± ¡°Elder Brother, where did you get the 100 liang? Don¡¯t give it to her!¡±
¡°Your sister is right. Just give 10 liang at most!¡±
Wang Yizhi gave his mother and sister a warning look.
¡°Don¡¯t say anything more, and leave me alone in this!¡±
The two women exchanged a look between themselves, but still followed her into the room.
Su Lan was here with Xiaoyu to pack the bags.
Qin Zhenzhen reached out. ¡°Xiaoyu,e here, let Aunt-inw carry you.¡±
The girl answered obediently, ¡°Okay.¡±
Strangely, she fell in love with this aunt-inw right away.
¡°Xiaoyu is going to live at Uncle¡¯s ce, right?¡±
The three uncles nodded at the same time. ¡°Yes, Xiaoyu, don¡¯t be afraid.¡±
¡°I am not afraid of living at Uncle¡¯s ce.¡± Xiaoyu felt assured and smiled.
Qin Zhenzhen said to Su Lan, ¡°We will go with you.¡±
Su Lan said gratefully, ¡°Thank you so much, Third Sister-inw and Uncle-inw!¡±
If they had not arrived at the right time, she would have killed herself.
Su Bin looked at Qin Zhenzhen with mixed feelings.
He owed Qin Zhenzhen more and more, and he couldn¡¯t help but wonder if he should let her go if she truly wanted a divorce. The desire to keep her and make her suffer, which had once consumed him, was no longer as strong as before. The gossiping vigers followed them all the way to Wang Yizhi¡¯s home, and the drama was far from over.
Many people found it hard to believe that Wang Yizhi could actually offer 100 liang. They could see the difficult life Su Lan was leading, not even willing to spend a penny on herself, as she hadn¡¯t bought new clothes for years.
The vige chief had a few men tie up the hooligan and ce him in the ancestral hall before heading to Wang Yizhi¡¯s house.
Su Lan and her daughter didn¡¯t possess many belongings¡ªjust a few shabby clothes and one bag in total. Su Bin and the others felt a profound sense of sadness.
They knew it was their brothers¡¯ fault that their sister had endured so much bullying from the Wang Family for so long.
Wang Yizhi was quick to write the divorce papers and handed 100 liang to Su Lan.
¡°Su Lan, you wanted a divorce, so don¡¯t me me,¡± he said coldly.
¡°I¡¯ve fulfilled your request. A friend loaned me 100 liang for next year¡¯s examination.¡±
¡°I¡¯m giving you the money now, but I hope you remember that we used to be husband and wife, and we are indebted to each other¡¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t bear to listen any longer. He red at Wang Yizhi and cut him off. ¡°Cut the crap!¡±
Wang Yizhi¡¯s face turned red with embarrassment. ¡°Su Bin, we are all schrs, and we can¡¯t go back on our words. I havepensated you, but you don¡¯t want it either¡¡±
This time, it was Su Lan who interrupted him firmly. ¡°We are living separately now. Don¡¯t meddle in our lives any further, and we won¡¯t cause you any more trouble. I will consider my daughter¡¯s father as good as dead!¡±
Despite the huge insult, Wang Yizhi decided to tolerate it.
He understood Su Lan well enough to know that she wouldn¡¯t go back on her word. If she said she wouldn¡¯t report him to the authorities, she meant it. The fact that he was Xiaoyu¡¯s father would never change.
¡°Brother, Third Sister-inw, Uncle Qin, let¡¯s go!¡± Su Lan dered firmly, holding the money and divorce papers in her hands as she left the Wang Family without hesitation..
Chapter 134 - 134: Scare
Chapter 134: Scare
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
But Su Lan was stopped in her tracks by Wang Yizhi¡¯s parents.
¡°Xiaoyu is our flesh and blood; you can¡¯t take her away!¡± they protested.
Su Lan clutched her daughter tightly. ¡°Wang Yizhi has agreed to let me take Xiaoyu with me!¡±
Wang Yizhi was about to interject, but the vige chief intervened first. ¡°Yizhi, we can¡¯t let the Wang Family be abandoned like this!¡±
The vige chief was subtly hinting to Wang Yizhi that he should keep his daughter with the Wang Family to prevent her from reporting their actions to the authorities.
Unable to bear it any longer, Qin Zhenzhen rolled up Xiaoyu¡¯s sleeves, revealing whip marks on her arms and feet.
¡°Are you going to keep Xiaoyu and continue to abuse her?¡± she confronted the vigers and the vige chief.
The shocking sight left everyone in disbelief. How could such a young girl suffer such cruelty? Those who didn¡¯t know better might think she was adopted.
Enraged, Su Lan turned her gaze towards Wang Yizhi. ¡°Are you going to honor your promise?¡±
¡°If you insist on keeping our daughter, then I won¡¯t leave. I¡¯ll suffer and die right here at your Wang Family! I don¡¯t believe that you¡¯ll be able to lead a peaceful life even if I sacrifice my own!¡± she dered, on the verge of tearing up the divorce papers and throwing away the money.
Fearing the situation escting further, Wang Yizhi flushed with panic and rushed to stop Su Lan. ¡°Stop it! You can take our daughter with you!¡±
But Qin Zhenzhen had already restrained Su Lan¡¯s hands and pushed Wang
Yizhi away. ¡°Stay away from my sister, you beast!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen then tried to console Su Lan. ¡°Sister, don¡¯t be impulsive. We have a hundred ways to deal with them, and death is thest resort!¡±
Wang Yizhi, realizing he had no choice, assured Su Lan, ¡°I agree to let you take our daughter away!¡±
With a cold nce at his family, he asserted, ¡°I have the right to decide whether my daughter should stay or leave!¡±
His family had always relied on him for food and clothing, leaving him hesitant to challenge his own statement.
Unbeknownst to them, it was the vige chief¡¯s idea in the first ce.
Wang Yizhi was fully aware of the vige chief¡¯s involvement, but this time, he refused to heed his counsel.
Having alreadye to an agreement with Su Lan, who promised not to cause any further trouble, he yearned for a peaceful existence.
The vige chief appeared embarrassed, silently cursing ¨C if they didn¡¯t keep one hostage, they wouldn¡¯t be able to exact revenge whenever they pleased.
Qin Zhenzhen and the others bid farewell to Wang Vige.
As they left, the vigers couldn¡¯t help but chatter amongst themselves, marveling at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s capabilities.
¡°I never imagined Qin Zhenzhen was so skilled!¡±
¡°Indeed! I thought her actions at the county office were just rumors. Now I see she¡¯s braver than most men!¡±
¡°True, Wang Yizhi may be a Cultivated Talent, but he lost 100 liang due to her words!¡±
¡°But let¡¯s not forget, Su Lan has been working hard for them all these years and didn¡¯t get 100 liang for free.¡±
During their journey, they took turns carrying Xiaoyu, who seemed delighted whenever Qin Zhenzhen held her.
Su Bin approached Qin Zhenzhen to have a private conversation, seeking her advice on something important.
Noticing the unspoken exchange between the three siblings, Su Lan and Su Xiao quickened their pace.
Su Qing, in turn, turned to Qin Silong. ¡°Brother Silong, I need to ask you something.¡±
He halted Qin Silong so he could look after his sister while they spoke in private.
With no one else around, Su Bin inquired quietly, ¡°Do you really have evidence of what Wang Yizhi did in the prefecture?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not entirely sure. I was bluffing him.. I never expected he would give me 100 liang!¡±
Chapter 135 - 135: Marrying Another Good Man
Chapter 135: Marrying Another Good Man
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°But the hooligan already mentioned that Wang Yizhi has a wealthy girl in the prefecture who is fond of him, and that¡¯s why he wants to divorce you.¡± ¡°Fortunately, Fourth Brother and I intervened and saw through his scheme.¡± Feeling cheerful, Qin Zhenzhen began to share more details.
As Su Bin observed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s side profile, he noticed she was bing even more beautiful. He then nced down and noticed her slimmer waist. Gone was the plumpness she had before; she now carried Xiaoyu swiftly, her energy unfaltering.
When Qin Zhenzhen turned to look at him, Su Bin averted his gaze and extended his hand. ¡°Xiaoyu,e and let me carry you.¡±
¡°Okay, Aunt must be tired after holding you for so long.¡±
After taking Xiaoyu in his arms, Su Bin asked Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Could you recount the events one more time?¡±
This made Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart skip a beat. Why did she have to repeat herself? She had already narrated everything once, and he seemed to have been paying close attention.
Was Su Bin trying to find inconsistencies and growing suspicious of her?
Feigning confusion, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°Are you trying to gather evidence against Wang Yizhi to sue him mercilessly?¡±
Intentionally staying silent, Su Bin didn¡¯t rify his actual intentions. In truth, he did have some doubts about Qin Zhenzhen.
For instance, when Qin Zhenzhen and her Fourth Brother arrived at Wang Vige, he understood that she wanted to change him and ensure good treatment for her sister.
However, if her goal was to ensure her sister¡¯s well-being, she should not have spread the news throughout the vige about Wang Yizhi beating her sister. Such an act would be humiliating for her.
Unless Qin Zhenzhen had already decided her sister should divorce Wang Yizhi and intentionally spread the news to expose his actions and motivations for the divorce.
Regardless, Su Bin couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that Qin Zhenzhen and her Fourth Brother had nned their visit to Wang Vige meticulously.
He decided to scrutinize the details again, searching for any potential loopholes.
Believing that Su Bin was onboard with her n, Qin Zhenzhen began exining her approach.
¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to sue Wang Yizhi on your sister¡¯s behalf.¡±
¡°As you can see, the entire Wang Family is protecting him, making it challenging to bring him to justice.¡±
¡°Our priority is to rescue your sister from this dire situation and make Wang Yizhipensate her financially. We can seek revenge at a more opportune time.¡±
¡°Revenge cer.¡±
¡°With the 100 liang, your sister will gain more confidence when she returns to Qian Vige. She won¡¯t feel like she¡¯s living under someone else¡¯s mercy. Continuing to endure such pressure wouldn¡¯t be beneficial for her physical and mental well-being.¡±
Unbeknownst to Qin Zhenzhen, she had almost forgotten that Su Bin was the viin in the book. In her mind, he was simply a 16 -year-old boy in need of her help.
Surprised, Su Bin questioned, ¡°So you¡¯re seekingpensation for my sister?¡± Qin Zhenzhen nodded, confirming his suspicion. ¡°Yes!¡±
¡°Mental well-being is crucial for a woman abandoned by her husband¡¯s family, on the verge of death. If she¡¯s penniless and your brothers treat her kindly, she might feel like a burden to you.¡±
¡°However, if she has money, it changes the situation. At least she won¡¯t consider herself a burden to you. Besides, you treat her well, and with time, her wounds will heal.¡±
¡°Perhaps she might find happiness again soon.¡±
¡°Happiness?¡±
¡°Meaning marrying another good man!¡±
Su Bin fell silent, realizing that Qin Zhenzhen wanted a divorce to have a fresh start with someone else.
She was definitely capable enough to find a man to marry after the divorce.
The more Su Bin thought about this, the more ufortable he felt..
Chapter 136 - 136: Wrong Strategy
Chapter 136: Wrong Strategy
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Seeing Su Bin¡¯s silence, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t resist asking, ¡°What¡¯s on your mind? Did I say something wrong?¡±
Su Bin nodded slightly. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±
¡°Thank you and your Fourth Brother for saving my sister¡¯s life.¡±
He could imagine the dire fate his sister would have faced if she had been trapped by Wang Yizhi¡¯s scheme.
yfully, Qin Zhenzhen teased him, ¡°How do you n to express your gratitude this time? You won¡¯t just talk and make empty promises likest time, will you?¡±
Su Bin stopped and asked, ¡°How do you want me to show my gratitude?¡±
Without hesitation, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°It¡¯s simple. Give me a divorce paper.¡±
Su Bin felt uneasy. Qin Zhenzhen seemed truly determined to end their rtionship, and he was now certain it wasn¡¯t a ploy.
He no longer hated her, nor did he want to keep her around for future torment, but he wasn¡¯t ready to let her go either.
He wanted to understand why she had undergone such a significant change, and why she had provoked him in the first ce only to leave now.
Su Bin,ing up with the theory of an antagonist, responded to Qin
Zhenzhen calmly. ¡°We¡¯ll discuss this once my name is on the list.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen misunderstood his intentions, replying happily, ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll divorce when you be a Cultivated Talent.¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but correct her, ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. The Cultivated Talent List isn¡¯t a name on the golden list. Everyone says you¡¯re our lucky star, so let¡¯s see if you can secure a spot on my golden list.¡±
With that, he walked ahead, not allowing Qin Zhenzhen a chance to reply.
Qin Zhenzhen was startled. What did she just hear?
Su Bin did not want to stop him from bing a Cultivated Talent, but now he wanted her to wait until he made it to the top of the list?
After Su Bin became a Cultivated Talent, he had ns to advance further and aim for the title of Advanced Schr the following year. Only after achieving that milestone would he be eligible to participate in the imperial examination the year after that.
There were still two or three years ahead before Qin Zhenzhen could obtain the divorce paper. She had to wait for this time to pass before she could officially sever ties with Su Bin.
Following the plot, Su Bin missed the Cultivated Talent examination this year, but he excelled in the three subsequent examinations, earning the prestigious title of a special student. He also became the first Advanced Schr of his year.
On the other hand, Qin Zhenzhen participated in the imperial examination during the third year, securing the top position yet again. Subsequently, she took part in the imperial examination and earned the esteemed title of Primus, chosen personally by the emperor.
During this period, Su Bin faced various challenges. He lost three of his family members, and his second brother fled while his fourth brother became a eunuch. Fully aware of his background and the Marquis¡¯ Mansion¡¯s ns, he decided to counteract the Duke Mansion¡¯s schemes. By that time, Su Bin would have almost turned evil.
Qin Zhenzhen stomped her feet.
How could Su Bin be like this?
He did not like her. Then what was the point of keeping her?
She had helped them so much, but she could not even get one divorce paper!
Was her strategy wrong?
Qin Silong, who was walking behind, had been paying attention to his sister and Su Bin.
Seeing his sister so angry, he could not help but quicken his pace. ¡°Zhenzhen, what happened? Did Su Bin bully you again?¡±
Su Qing rushed to rify, ¡°Brother Silong, there seems to be a misunderstanding. My Third Brother is actually grateful to Third Sister-inw, and he would never mistreat her!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen recounted the conversation with Su Bin to her Fourth Brother, exining, ¡°Su Bin thanked me earlier, so I inquired about how he nned to show his gratitude.¡±
She then shared Su Bin¡¯s response with Qin Silong.
Understanding the situation, Su Qing¡¯s face lit up with joy as he hurried ahead.
He was eager to inform her Second Brother about this turn of events..
Chapter 137 - 137: Cultivated Talent
Chapter 137: Cultivated Talent
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Fourth Brother, is our strategy wrong?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt incredibly frustrated. Should she continue ying the role of the original host to secure the divorce paper quickly? She was now regarded as the fortunate wife of the Wang Family, and even Su Bin¡¯s siblings were against her leaving. It seemed like a self-defeating move.
Qin Silong pondered for a moment and offered his perspective, ¡°Our strategy seems sound. If we bring bad luck upon Su Bin¡¯s family, he might harbor resentment and direct his anger towards you. He might seek revenge once he¡¯s capable enough, starting with you and our family.¡±
¡°You can¡¯t just remain passive in this situation, can you?¡±
Feeling worried, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°What should we do now?¡±
Qin Silong reassured her, ¡°Su Bin isn¡¯t in a dire situation right now. After all, he doesn¡¯t hate you anymore. His siblings are all grateful to you, and he isn¡¯t rushing to divorce you. Perhaps he genuinely hopes you can excel and reach the top of the list.¡±
¡°Then you can wait a couple of years before you divorce him,¡± suggested Qin Silong.
Qin Zhenzhen became even more worried. ¡°What if he still doesn¡¯t want to divorce us after two years?¡±
She had observed the way Su Bin looked at her, a look she had never seen before. She wasn¡¯t willing to reveal all her secrets to him just yet. What if Su
Bin refused to agree to the divorce until he had unraveled her true background?
Marriagews in this country were biased towards men. When a man and woman got married, a marriage contract would be issued by the governmental office. If a man wanted to divorce his official wife, he had to report it to the governmental office and provide a valid reason.
However, if the woman initiated the divorce and the man disagreed, there was practically no chance of obtaining it.
¡°Then¡¡± Qin Silong had no idea what to do.
In his dream, Qin Silong would have supported Qin Zhenzhen if he had note to destroy the Qin Family. So he even had the thought of bringing down
Su Bin.
If Su Bin made it to the top of the county, he would definitely be a Cultivated Talent.
Didn¡¯t Zhenzhen say that Su Bin became the Grand Secretary in the end, ordingly?
But Qin Silong did not want to be inws with his dream enemy. He even wanted to kill him for revenge, ordingly.
He consoled his sister. ¡°Zhenzhen, don¡¯t think too much about this. We will take it one step at a time.¡±
By the time they returned to the Qian Vige, the sun was already setting.
As the vigers saw Su Bin, they congratted him on his achievement. The news of him ranking at the top of the county would soon reach the governmental office, as notices were posted at the county office and circted to different viges.
However, Su Bin didn¡¯t appear very excited. He offered only a rare smile in response to the vigers¡¯ congrattions. He had achieved the top rankingst year as well, and back then, he had been ecstatic. But something unexpected had happened during the second examination, leaving him anxious about potential tricks awaiting him this time.
He couldn¡¯t help ncing at Qin Zhenzhen, who was holding Xiaoyu. If there was indeed a conspiracy this time, would she be there to support him and help him ovee it, as she had done in the past?
Meanwhile, when the vigers spotted Su Lan returning with her daughter, they approached her with concern.
¡°Lan, are you bringing your daughter back to your mother¡¯s home to celebrate your third brother¡¯s sess?¡±
Su Lan responded calmly, ¡°Yes, but I¡¯m actually returning to my mother¡¯s home with my daughter because I have divorced the child¡¯s father..¡±
Chapter 138 - 138: Rich Life
Chapter 138: Rich Life
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°What? You¡¯re divorced? Why?¡± The vigers were surprised as they had already heard about Su Lan¡¯s husband being abusive and how Qin Zhenzhen and her brothers had defended her.
In the countryside, unfortunately, it wasmon for women to experience abuse from their husbands. So, the question arose, why did Su Lan choose to divorce?
Remainingposed, Su Lan calmly replied, ¡°If we can¡¯t live together harmoniously, then it¡¯s better to get a divorce. It¡¯s not a big deal. Thankfully, my brothers don¡¯t object to me staying with them at home.¡±
That was all she needed to say; she chose not to spread rumors about Wang Yizhi¡¯s actions.
Qin Zhenzhen admired Su Lan¡¯s attitude and said, ¡°Sister, you¡¯re amazing! Stand tall and be strong!¡±
Feeling reassured, they had initially worried that Su Lan would take a long time to recover from the trauma, but now it seemed she was determined and didn¡¯t need their concerns.
Su Lan blushed and expressed her gratitude, ¡°Third Sister-inw, you gave me the courage, and you also saved my daughter¡¯s life. Thank you, Third
Sister-inw, from now on, you¡¯re my sister, and I¡¯ll protect you with my life!¡±
¡°If my Third Brother dares to mistreat you, I¡¯ll give him a whipping first!¡± Su Lan sounded like an elder sister, speaking fiercely in defense of Qin
Zhenzhen.
Feeling a little embarrassed, Qin Zhenzhen attempted to exin, ¡°Sister, you don¡¯t have to say that. Su Bin and I are going to¡¡±
But Su Lan interrupted her with a warm smile, ¡°You and my Third Brother will grow old together!¡±
Having just learned from her two brothers about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s recent actions and her desire for a divorce, Su Lan understood that her Third Brother¡¯s opinion of Qin Zhenzhen had changed after everything that happened.
As the elder sister, she decided to intervene and try to bring them back together.
Speaking highly of Qin Zhenzhen, Su Lanplimented, ¡°You are so capable and wonderful. My Third Brother won¡¯t easily find a wife like you.¡±
Feeling even more embarrassed, Qin Zhenzhen tried to exin, ¡°Sister, you don¡¯t know the whole story¡
But Su Lan interrupted her, saying, ¡°I know. My Third Brother neglected you due to his studies. Don¡¯t hold it against him. He will surely make it up to you.¡±
Su Bin was embarrassed too. ¡°Sister¡¡±
He did not want to divorce Qin Zhenzhen, not because he already recognized her as his wife, but because he wanted to find out her secret!
His sister must have misunderstood him.
Su Lan nced at him instead. ¡°Just shut up!¡±
Then, Su Lan proceeded to praise her third brother, ¡°Actually, my Third Brother is quite remarkable too. He¡¯s handsome and talented in literary pursuits. If he bes a Cultivated Talent this year, he might advance to Advanced Schr next year and even top the list. It won¡¯t be hard for him to achieve sess.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback by Su Lan¡¯s confidence in Su Bin. If she hadn¡¯t saved Su Lan before, she might have suspected her sister-inw had experienced a rebirth.
Feeling unable to refute the praise, Qin Zhenzhen smiled self-mockingly, ¡°But I¡¯m not that fortunate.¡±
Su Lan stopped her, asserting, ¡°What are you saying? You are destined for greatness! I heard from a fortune teller that you will have a prosperous future!¡±
Chapter 139 - 139: Celebration
Chapter 139: Celebration
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen was left speechless. She didn¡¯t feel the need to argue with Su Lan since she was already going through with the divorce from Su Bin.
Surprisingly, Su Bin didn¡¯t counter his elder sister¡¯s matchmaking efforts either. They were almost home when Su Ning and Su Cheng, who had been waiting at the door, rushed over to greet them.
¡°Third Sister-inw, Elder Sister, Xiaoyu, Third Brother, Second Brother,
Fourth Brother!¡±
¡°You¡¯re back!¡±
Upon learning that their elder sister had been mistreated by her brother-inw, Su Ning and Su Cheng were so concerned that they decided not to continue working and came down the mountain early.
The siblings were discussing whether to visit their elder sister¡¯s home when they saw her and their third brother returning together. Seeing howposed their elder sister appeared, they felt reassured that she hadn¡¯t suffered severe harm.
Su Ning then cheered for another piece of good news and enthusiastically hugged Su Bin¡¯s arm.
¡°Third Brother, you¡¯re amazing! We knew you¡¯d make it to the top of the list!¡±
Su Bin smiled and replied, ¡°My whole family is amazing!¡±
Meanwhile, Second Brother, who had been absent all day, decided to stay home and stop wandering. He had been busy digging yams in the mountains every day.
Even Fourth Brother, who was stubborn and hard to convince, chose to skip the acting ss and opted to learn from Qin Zhenzhen instead.
Their sister, whom they had worried wouldn¡¯t be able to endure the situation, had proven to be unexpectedly strong.
And as a result of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s actions, their uncle¡¯s family, who had been causing trouble for them, no longer dared to harass them.
It was all because of Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen had indeed been a true savior for the family. She saved their
fields, helped Su Bin¡¯s siblings avoid starvation, and even safeguarded his qualifications for the examination. It was no exaggeration to call her the fortunate wife of the family, and it was no wonder her brother and sister were so reluctant to see her leave.
After putting down the things, Su Lan started to make dinner.
Su Cheng told them happily, ¡°I caught a big fat rabbit in the trap Second Brother dug. Let¡¯s eat rabbit meat to celebrate for Third Brother tonight!¡±
Su Pingughed. ¡°Wonderful!¡±
Su Ning exined proudly, ¡°Third Sister-inw taught us a good method! Fifth Brother brings sweet potato seedlings to the trap every day, and today, we finally caught one gluttonous fat rabbit!¡±
Su Bin turned to Qin Zhenzhen. It was her idea again.
Why had he not heard about putting food in the trap to lure animals into it before?
Su Lan was very happy too. She seemed to have forgotten what happened just now. She asked Su Qing and Su Qing to get the rabbits to her.
Then she took out some money and asked Su Cheng to buy some chickens from the vige.
¡°We have to eat chicken tonight to celebrate your Third Brother¡¯s victory!¡± ¡°And to celebrate your sister¡¯s escape from the Wang Family¡¯s misery!¡±
Su Lan had saved up the money and had not yet given it to Wang Yizhi.
Only now did Su Ning and Su Cheng realize that their sister had divorced their brother-inw.
Thinking of how her Elder Sister suffered all those years and how she was almost driven to death by her brother-inw, Su Ning burst into tears again and threw herself into Su Lan¡¯s arms.
¡°Sister, you have suffered much! Brother-inw¡ he is not a human being!¡±
Su Lan smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t cry, I won¡¯t suffer any more.¡±
Su Cheng did not want Su Lan¡¯s money. ¡°Sister, save your money, we have money to sell yams.¡±
But Su Lan insisted.
When the work was done, Su Lan said to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Third Sister-inw, you are our hero, just take a break. You don¡¯t have to do anything for dinner, just me and Su Ning will do.¡±
Su Ning added. ¡°Yeah. Third Sister-inw, you can watch me tonight! MV rabbit meat tastes so good!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen did not argue with them.
¡°Okay, leave Xiaoyu to me then.¡±
Su Lan added. ¡°Third Brother, you and Zhenzhen can keep Xiaoyupany..¡±
Chapter 140 - 140: Same
Chapter 140: Same
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The dinner was very sumptuous. There was chicken, rabbit meat, and braised pork.
They had been in a good mood, before Ms.Lin and Qian Dashan arrived.
Ms.Lin and Qian Dashan could not help but drool seeing so much meat on the table.
But they were not yet hick-skinned enough to sit there and start to eat.
They could not wait to tell them what they were here for.
¡°We received the news toote, and by the time we went up to the mountains, the yam fields were already taken over.¡±
¡°We were hoping you could share some with us, considering you have so much.¡±
Su Cheng was quick to object, ¡°No way! We don¡¯t even have enough for ourselves!¡±
They weren¡¯t asking for yams to be dug up for them; they intended to im thend for themselves. The plot was not only fertile but also conveniently close to the vige.
Su Cheng had a n in mind. Once all the yams were dug up, he intended to rent the entire hill.
Ms. Lin raised her voice when her request was turned down. ¡°You only have two children at home, how much can you dig? Are you going to give them away to others? Why not give them to us? After all, we are your uncles and aunts!¡±
Su Cheng replied, ¡°Who says it¡¯s only my sister and I who can do the digging?
Ms. Lin¡¯s voice grew louder. ¡°Of course not! Your Second Brother has his mind set on leaving, and he said he¡¯ll be gone in a few days. Your Fourth Brother needs to do the theater, Third Brother needs to study, and your Third Sister-inw needs to stay home and buy yams, am I right?¡±
Su Ning disagreed, ¡°You¡¯re mistaken! Even if Second Brother wants to go out, we still have Fourth Brother and Sister at home!¡±
Ms. Lin shot a cold nce at Su Lan ¨C she had heard about the divorce. That was the real reason they hade tonight.
Ms. Lin¡¯s initial concern had been about Su Lan marrying a Cultivated Talent, but now she appeared to be here to take yams from them?
With a disdainful sneer, Ms. Lin addressed Su Lan, ¡°The Qian Family has never had a daughter who married someone and then returned to live in the vige. You¡¯re aware of that, aren¡¯t you?¡±
She continued, ¡°But since you¡¯re divorced and in a pitiful state, if you want to move back to the vige, you¡¯ll need us to talk to the vige chief on your behalf! ¡±
In other words, they were refusing to help them unless they received some yams in return.
Su Bin observed them with a cold expression and responded firmly, ¡°I remember the rules of the Qian Vige, and there is no such rule that forbids a daughter who married outside the vige from living here!¡±
¡°Also, my sister doesn¡¯t have a separate household for the time being.¡± ¡°So you don¡¯t have to worry about my sister moving back to the vige!¡±
¡°You don¡¯t even need to think about the yam fields. We have enoughbor forces at home.¡±
He had memorized the rules of the Qian Vige so well. It was so funny that they tried to tell him what the rules were.
But when he made it with his examination, everything would be much easier.
Qin Zhenzhen added. ¡°Even if we want to give it to someone else, you would not be the choice!¡±
She had not forgotten that Ms.Lin tried to push her into the trap when she came to fight for the wild boar.
Ms. Lin snapped. ¡°Don¡¯t be so ungrateful! We took care of you when your parents died!¡±
Su Ping stood up angrily. ¡°Shut up! You know pretty well how you took care of us!¡±
¡°Just a few days ago, you even wanted to sell the remaining fields of our family!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t force me to p you!¡±
As his anger rose, he was on the verge of confronting Ms. Lin and Qian Erhu when Ms. Lin used his Fifth Brother of stealing corn.
Not wanting the situation to escte further, Qian Dashan, who had remained silent until now, intervened and forcefully pulled his wife out of the yard.
As they walked away, Qian Dashan scolded her, ¡°I told you to speak politely, but you¡¯re still acting the same way as before!¡±
Chapter 141 - 141: Good
Chapter 141: Good
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
For three consecutive days, Su Bin chose to stay at home, focusing on various activities. Alongside his studies in the study, he took time to teach Xiaoyu how to write and observed Qin Zhenzhen as she prepared seasonings.
During this period, Qin Silong continued to assist Qin Zhenzhen, ensuring that the two stores selling her seasonings maintained good sales. The demand for the seasonings was high, prompting Qin Zhenzhen to consider expanding production.
Thankfully, the process of making the seasonings was rtively simple. The materials were ground into powder with the help of spiritual water and then sifted to achieve the desired powdered form, easily dissolvable in water.
Some people from the vige delivered sundried yam slices, and one person from the family needed to buy them.
Su Qing also stayed at home during this time, and he found that the work was not easy. Aside from purchasing yam slices, they had to wash and slice the yams before drying them. Regrly turning the yam slices during the drying process was essential as well. Weather conditions needed close monitoring to ensure the proper drying of the yam slices.
To create time for learning from Qin Zhenzhen, Su Qing would wake up before dawn. Afterpleting his other tasks, he would then offer his help to Qin Zhenzhen, who willingly taught him.
Qin Zhenzhen was open with Su Qing, sharing all her secrets about the seasoning except for one critical aspect. Su Qing was not naive; he knew that the ordinary materials alone couldn¡¯t produce such remarkable seasonings.
One day, Qin Zhenzhen candidly revealed, ¡°Besides these ingredients, there is one very special and preciousponent added.¡±
¡°We don¡¯t have this ingredient here. We need to import it from the outer realm.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was being untruthful, but Qin Silong chose not to expose her lie.
Su Qing was aware that Qin Zhenzhen had a secretive master who did not want to reveal themselves, and he understood the sensitivity of her seasoning recipes. Consequently, he didn¡¯t inquire further into this matter.
But Su Bin had a different understanding from Su Qing.
Su Bin felt that Qin Zhenzhen did not add the precious ingredients to the list.
But he had not yet discovered the secret of seasonings.
He found Qin Zhenzhen getting very strange.
Why did he feel so energetic after eating the dishes made with her seasonings?
Fifth Brother and Sixth Sister, who used to be sallow and skinny, were now flushed and had gained a lot of weight.
Qin Zhenzhen was the most strange one. He noticed that she ate a lot, but why was she getting slimmer and prettier?
Many times, he watched Qin Zhenzhen from behind. And he even helped her with the fire when she was cooking.
After a few times, he finally found a loophole.
Qin Zhenzhen forgot to put seasonings in the fish soup, but the fish soup still tasted better than seasonings!
Actually, when Qin Zhenzhen was cooking, apart from putting some seasonings for show, she would also put a few drops of spiritual water in the dishes.
That greatly increased the freshness of the dishes, and the main thing was that the nutrition was doubled.
Su Ning and Su Cheng had been raised by the spiritual water for a while, and their malnutrition had improved. But Xiaoyu was still sallow and skinny.
Qin Zhenzhen believed that Su Bin¡¯s whole family needed to be nurtured with spiritual water.
It cost nothing, and she was doing a good deed.
But Qin Zhenzhen had not expected that Su Bin would pay attention to this detail.
Su Bin thought that after a few more days of observation, he would definitely find more strange things.
But time did not allow him to. He was going back to West Mountain College.
The day after tomorrow, the teacher from West Mountain College would lead the students who had passed the county examination to the prefectural examination.
The prefectural city in ancient times was like a modern city, and the governor was the same as the mayor in the modern time, who usually governed seven or eight counties..
Chapter 142 - 142: Not Blind
Chapter 142: Not Blind
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ping had initially nned to apany Su Bin to the prefecture and provide support during the two examinations, but Su Bin declined the offer.
¡°Second Brother, there¡¯s no need for you to go there. Just stay at home and look after our siblings,¡± Su Bin advised.
Su Ping agreed, saying, ¡°Of course. I¡¯ll invite two friends to join us¡¡±
However, when Su Bin thought about his friends, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a headacheing on.
¡°These people are plotting against me in secret. For instance, on the day before the county examination, they arranged for a woman from a brothel to frame me. No matter how many people you bring, it won¡¯t be helpful without a pair of keen eyes.¡±
¡°You ask your friends for help, and the fees are high, and you owe them a huge favor, but it doesn¡¯t work.¡±
¡°Second Brother, don¡¯t follow us, please.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s words made sense, but he still felt a bit ufortable.
He was aware that he didn¡¯t hold much significance in his Third Brother¡¯s eyes. Nevertheless, he earnestly wished to defend and support him.
¡°I will always remember how well Second Brother treats me,¡± Su Bin stated with gratitude.
He assured his brother that he would be cautious during the uing examinations. He pledged not to venture outside and to avoid consuming anything from unfamiliar sources, thereby denying their enemies any opportunity to harm him during the prefectural studies.
Realizing his brother¡¯s concerns, Su Bin didn¡¯t push the matter further. Instead, he turned to Su Lan and asked, ¡°Third Brother, you mentioned a pair of sharp eyes. Are you referring to Third Sister-inw?¡±
It suddenly dawned on Su Lan, and she replied, ¡°Of course!¡±
The siblings discussed the possibility of Qin Zhenzhen apanying them to the prefecture. Su Bin believed that with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s watchful presence, they could turn the tables and potentially transform the adverse situation into a fortunate one.
Qin Zhenzhen was indeed a young woman, and it might not be entirely appropriate for her to apany them unless her Fourth Brother (Su Ping) was willing to join as well.
The night before Su Bin¡¯s departure, Su Lan expressed her thoughts to him about the situation. However, Su Bin objected, cautioning Su Lan not to mention this idea in front of Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Don¡¯t mention this to her, I will handle my own affairs,¡± he asserted firmly.
The night before Su Bin¡¯s return to college, Qin Zhenzhen went back to her mother¡¯s home. Grandma Qin had anticipated this and asked Qin Silong to bring Qin Zhenzhen back.
Although Grandma had her suspicions, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t feel burdened by them. She was confident in her ability to handle the situation, and even if her grandma didn¡¯t believe her exnations, she wouldn¡¯t be bothered.
However, Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback when her grandma began recounting what had transpired earlier. Sitting in front of the dressing table, Grandma Qin motioned for Qin Zhenzhen to close the door, signaling that they needed to talk in private. The unexpected conversation left Qin Zhenzhen wondering how much her grandma knew about the truth behind her actions. ¡°What do you want to ask me this time, Grandma?¡±
Grandma Qin said, ¡°Just take a seat, I will tell you a story.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen moved a chair and sat opposite her grandma. ¡°Before I tell the story, I have to ask you one question.¡±
¡°Ask away.¡±
¡°Are you my granddaughter, Qin Zhenzhen?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded resolutely. ¡°I am your granddaughter, Qin Zhenzhen!¡±
She was not totally lying. After all, this body belonged to Qin Zhenzhen, and she could just take her life in the modern world as a dream.
But Grandma Qin did not make her swear. She sighed.
¡°I already know that you are Zhenzhen; otherwise, you wouldn¡¯t have resorted to lying to your parents and brother. After all, they are not blind,¡± Grandma Qin spoke with a knowing tone.
¡°I asked your brothers, and they mentioned that your temperament changed after you broke your forehead at the Su Family, and you became more capable.¡±
¡°Your Fourth Brother already told grandma about what you went through. I can¡¯t believe that you two had such a fortuitous encounter together.¡±
¡°I have been thinking about this for days, and I think that our ancestor must have shown up!¡±
Only now did Qin Zhenzhen realize that it was her Fourth Brother who confessed first.
But Grandma did have a point, and she was not going to counter her.
¡°But what story do you want to tell me?¡±
Chapter 143 - 143: Grandma Qin’s Story
Chapter 143: Grandma Qin¡¯s Story
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°About 300 years ago, there was a Jiang Family that was famous for cooking food.¡±
¡°The Jiang Family started with restaurants and hotels.¡±
¡°Then they created a recipe that could cure diseases. The food made ording to the recipe could cure diseases and fill the stomach.¡±
¡°The Jiang Family became famous because of this, and the Family Head was summoned to the pce by the royal family.¡±
¡°The head of the family at that time also wanted to use that opportunity to live a luxurious life in the future.¡±
¡°He told the truth to the Emperor.¡±
¡°The Jiang Family was supposed to have a special girl every generation.¡±
¡°As long as the food was cooked by this girl, it would always taste very good. Also, if one ate the food cooked by her for a long time, not only could one extend his or her life, but also became healthy and had no illnesses or disasters.¡±
Hearing this, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eyes widened. The Jiang Family had many appearances in the original book. It was one of the supporting roles.
The Emperor¡¯s mother, who was taken down by the male lead, was also from the Jiang Family.
Was Grandma telling the story of the Jiang Family?
But that was such a strange story.
Could it be that the spiritual water on her finger was not the benefits of transmigration, but an ancestral thing of the Jiang Family?
When she was transmigrating here, she identally activated it?
Qin Zhenzhen was very surprised, but she did not lose herposure in front of her grandma.
But Grandma Qin asked her, ¡°Don¡¯t you think that is strange?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°Compared to my and Fourth Brother¡¯s experience , it is not that strange.¡±
¡°True.¡± Grandma Qin nodded and continued.
Initially, the Emperor was skeptical about the girl¡¯s special talents, but the head of the Jiang Family convinced him to let her stay in the pce for a while. Over time, the Emperor became delighted with her culinary skills and eventually made her his concubine, revealing her true identity as the special chef.
The Jiang Family needed to move into the capital as well.
The Jiang Family was getting richer and richer by sending girls to the court. They were getting more and more influential.
With a girl by the Emperor¡¯s side, any disciple of the Jiang Family who made it to the imperial examination would always get a good position.
But as time went by, the strange thing of special women appearing in every generation of the Jiang Family was suddenly stopped.
Luckily, the Jiang Family was doing the best in food and medicinal herbs as well as cooking.
The Jiang Family was still valued by the imperial family, even if there were no more extraordinary women in the future.
The Jiang Family and the Royal Family maintained a very nice rtionship.
But from that moment on, when girls from the Jiang Family wanted to enter the pce, they did not need to rely on their special physique. They needed to rely on their own cooking skills.
Every now and then, the Jiang Family would hold apetition, and the winner would be sent to the pce.
Whether or not she could get the Emperor¡¯s love depended on her own efforts and luck.
They knew that there were many beauties in the pce and it was very difficult to get the love from the Emperor. But the women from the Jiang Family were still fighting each other for the chance to take the ce.
Grandma Qin was one of the sacrifices.
At that time, the Emperor doted on the Third Prince, who was sickly and weak. The Emperor had the intention to choose one girl from the Jiang Family as his concubine, believing that it would benefit his health. This decision caused a significant uproar among the girls of the Jiang Family.
She was sent to the pce as one of the many women of the Emperor. She was going topete with the sisters who went into the pce first, and she was going topete with the beauties to seduce the Emperor.
If she could not get pregnant with a prince, she would never be able to stand out.
After a few years, the Jiang Family would send new girls to the pce as to rece the unsessful ones.
But being a concubine was totally different.
Marrying into the family would grant her a much higher position and status..
Chapter 144 - 144: Special Constitution
Chapter 144: Special Constitution
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
At that time, Grandma Qin outshined the other girls from the Jiang Family with her exceptional food therapy and cooking skills. The only one more capable than her was her lineal elder sister, who happened to be the daughter of a concubine.
Grandma Qin, being a concubine¡¯s daughter herself, never aspired to be a concubine. However, to her surprise, the Third Prince fell in love with her and proposed marriage.
The Emperor granted them both marriages simultaneously, with Grandma Qin as the secondary concubine and her lineal elder sister as the main concubine. However, Grandma Qin never anticipated that her lineal elder sister would grow resentful and be apprehensive that the Third Prince might favor the secondary concubine over her.
Driven by jealousy and fear of losing favor, her lineal elder sister took drastic and malicious measures. She had Grandma Qin kidnapped and subjected her to unspeakable horrors, including rape and being blinded with drugs.
After Grandma Qin was found, the Jiang Family did not dare to conceal anything from the royal family. They admitted to what had happened to her and truthfully informed the royal family that she had lost her virginity, deeming her no longer suitable for the Third Prince.
Later, Grandma Qin was sent to the countryside and she was given an honest rural man.
In the beginning, she wanted to die, and she did not allow any man to touch her.
Then she was moved by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s grandfather, who was so down-to-earth.
They became a real couple and had one son.
Speaking of her husband, Grandma Qin looked so happy.
Qin Zhenzhen was dumbfounded.
She had thought that her grandma would be filled with hatred after suffering so much. But she had already walked out of the shadow.
Grandma even drove her out of the room when she mentioned food therapy.
But now, her grandma was telling her what she had been hiding for 40 or 50 years.
¡°Grandma, I want to ask you one question. Did you like Third Prince at the time?¡±
Grandma Qin said, ¡°I liked him at the time, but after what happened, I regret ever liking him.¡±
¡°If I had not liked him and cared about him, he would not have said that he wanted to marry me, and I would not have suffered like this.¡±
¡°But for that, I would not have married someone from the countryside and run into your grandpa.¡±
¡°Meeting your grandpa has been the luckiest thing in my life.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was silent, feeling a bit stressed.
But she found that strange. ¡°Grandma, you seem to have let go of what happened in the past, but why were you so angry when I mentioned the booksst time?¡±
Grandma Qin sighed.
¡°I became angry not because you exposed my scars, but because I don¡¯t want you to bring disaster to the family!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was shocked again. ¡°How can I bring disaster to the family?¡± Grandma Qin sighed.
¡°Just think about it, and you will understand what I meant after the first half of the story.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen thought for a while and finally understood what was going on.
¡°Grandma, you think that I can make delicious food because I have a special physique?¡±
Grandma Qin countered. ¡°Isn¡¯t that so?¡±
¡°I suspected something when I smelled your special scent the other day.¡± ¡°Then you made delicious fish soup, which made it even more suspicious.¡±
¡°After that, you even sold seasonings, so I stopped suspecting you. I became sure about it.¡±
¡°I suspected that you were an imposter, but now I believe that it must be the ancestors of the Jiang Family who gave you this lost special physique.¡±
¡°But it is not a good thing to have such a special physique.¡±
¡°Especially when those people from the Jiang Family know about this, you will never be free again.¡±
¡°Even your brother and parents will be taken back to the Jiang Family to serve them..¡±
Chapter 145 - 145: Kindness
Chapter 145: Kindness
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen finally understood her grandmother¡¯s worries. Should she disclose to her grandma that she possessed spiritual water? Grandma had only mentioned her special physique, never knowing about her ability to produce magical water with her fingers.
If the Jiang Family in the capital knew that she had a special constitution, they would definitely get her back and pack her up to the pce to suck up to the Emperor.
More importantly, the Emperor was already in his 40s and 50s.
Then everyone from the Qin Family would be taken to the capital and got watched.
Because they would think that among the descendants of grandma, the most likely one would have a special physical characteristic.
Girls with special physiques in the Jiang Family had been lost for so long, and they must be very rare.
Qin Zhenzhen felt her head aching. If she had known that this would happen, she would not have sold seasonings.
It was all because they had no money.
She would never want to be sent to the pce as the personal chef and ything for the Emperor.
Although she was married to someone else, those people would definitely try to get her after the divorce.
If they knew that she was still a virgin, there would be even more trouble!
Was she going to use Su Bin¡¯s identity to counter the Jiang Family?
So the whole family could continue to live a free life.
That was exactly what Grandma Qin was thinking.
¡°I don¡¯t want to go to the capital, and you don¡¯t want to go to the pce either. You can¡¯t be as free as you are outside. The Jiang Family¡¯s internal strife is like eating people without spitting out bones.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°I am definitely not going to the pce, nor to the Jiang
Family.¡±
¡°But if I marry someone now, will the Jiang Familye to me again?¡±
Grandma Qin answered with certainty. ¡°Of course! You have no idea how rare girls with special physiques are!¡±
¡°The Jiang Family only has three girls, but their presence has elevated the family from the lowestmoners to nobility in the capital,¡± Grandma Qin exined.
¡°However, their standing with the royal family has diminished in recent years because no girls with special physiques have been sent to the pce.¡±
¡°If the Jiang Family discovers your special physique, they would undoubtedly try to reim you and bring you back to the family,¡± Grandma Qin warned.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expression turned serious as she responded, ¡°Are they so powerful that they even want to control the offspring of a married woman?¡±
Grandma Qin rified, ¡°The Jiang Family may not be as powerful as you, but they are slightly weaker than you.¡±
¡°Your Fourth Brother already told me about Su Bin¡¯s background.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t think you should divorce Su Bin right now.¡±
¡°You have to help Su Bin and the others to return to the family as soon as possible.¡±
¡°Su Bin is the Young Master of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion, and he is the lineal son of the family. In terms of status, he is above the Jiang Family.¡±
¡°And Su Bin is very capable. The Jiang Family won¡¯t dare to touch us because of him.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt a bit helpless.
Grandma was not worried for nothing.
She had been hurt before, and that was why she thought about the whole family and gave her advice.
¡°Grandma, did Fourth Brother tell you that Su Bin will be a ruthless viin
Grandma Qin took Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hands.
¡°That is because of what happened to his family and the loss of his rtives.
That is why he is so twisted in heart.¡¯
Have you ever heard of the saying, ¡®People are born kind. If he had not suffered those things, he would not have turned bad,¡¯
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help feeling a bit wronged as she replied, ¡°But he doesn¡¯t like me, and I don¡¯t like him either. Two people who don¡¯t like each other can¡¯t get divorced¡¡±
Grandma Qin smiled reassuringly, ¡°No one knows what will happen in the future. It might be the opposite..¡±
Chapter 146 - 146: Pride
Chapter 146: Pride
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen responded with a self-mocking tone, ¡°Of course not, at least I don¡¯t like him!¡±
Grandma Qin was taken aback by her sudden change of heart. She looked at Qin Zhenzhen with her invisible eyes and asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you want to marry him no matter what? How can you change your mind so fast?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen exined, ¡°I don¡¯t know if you have heard of this saying, ¡®Cover your palms, let go if they are not hot, and change people¡¯s hearts, or give up when you can¡¯t.¡±¡®
¡°I am a self-respecting person.¡±
Grandma Qin smiled warmly, ¡°Okay, I didn¡¯t ask you to never divorce him. If the two of you don¡¯t get along well in the future, you can talk about divorce. By that time, you will definitely have your own power.¡±
She continued, ¡°You and your Fourth Sister have had a fortuitous encounter, and you know what lies ahead in the future. With your special abilities, it shouldn¡¯t be difficult for both of you to make a fortune or earn military merits in the army. When that timees, the Jiang Family won¡¯t dare to do anything to you.¡±
¡°Okay, Grandma, I will do as you say and solve the problem first,¡± Qin Zhenzhen agreed, feeling reassured by her grandmother¡¯s advice.
Walking out of grandma¡¯s room, Ms.Yang asked Qin Zhenzhen as usual. ¡°What did grandma say to you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen lied to her as usual. ¡°She asked me if what I did was real, and asked me to tell her the process in details.¡±
Ms.Yang was very proud. ¡°Haha, then you should tell your grandma loudly, why did you make such a small sound? I wanted to eavesdrop, but I could not hear a thing.¡±
Ms.Yang lowered her voice, fearing that her mother-inw would know that she was eavesdropping.
Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°Mom, you know that I don¡¯t like people talking loudly.¡±
Ms.Yang could not help butugh. ¡°True, Zhenzhen is so understanding!¡± After dealing with her mother, Qin Zhenzhen went to Qin Silong.
¡°Fourth Brother, when did you tell grandma about this?¡±
Qin Silong said, ¡°Last night.¡±
¡°Grandma asked me to tell her what happenedst night, and after that, she asked me if we were hiding something from her, because everything happened so coincidentally.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t underestimate grandma. She can¡¯t see, but she can sense things better than anyone else.¡±
¡°No one in the family could tell that there was something wrong with us, but Grandma sensed it right away.¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t want to say a thing at first, but then grandma believed that you were not Zhenzhen, saying that you were a fake.¡±
¡°I couldn¡¯t stand that anymore, so I told grandma about us.¡±
¡°But I didn¡¯t tell grandma everything. I didn¡¯t tell her how he killed our whole family with bandits.¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t tell her that my brother was disabled.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in understanding. ¡°No wonder grandma told me not to
divorce Su Bin.¡±
If her grandma had known that he was so cruel, she would not have said that he was a kind person.
¡°Fourth Brother, you think that we should use Su Bin¡¯s identity to deal with the
Jiang Family?¡±
¡°That is the only way.¡±
Qin Silong could not get over how cruel he was. But he still agreed with his grandma for the sake of the bigger picture.
After all, he had died once and he knew how precious life was. He did not want their future to be controlled by the Jiang Family.
Especially Zhenzhen, who was their precious sister. She could not be sent to the pce as a bargaining chip.
Then Qin Silong added. ¡°Grandma told me about the Jiang Family, and only now did I know that the seasonings you make are so magical. So you have the special physique passed down from the Jiang Family..¡±
Chapter 147 - 147: Robbers
Chapter 147: Robbers
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong sighed. ¡°If grandma had told us about the Jiang Family, you would not have sold seasonings.¡±
¡°In this way, the Jiang Family will never know that you have a special physique, so you don¡¯t have to worry about being used by them.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°Grandma can¡¯t be med. It takes a lot of courage to reveal what happened 40 or 50 years ago.¡±
¡°Also, the girl with special physique has been lost for a long time.¡±
¡°In addition, I did not have this special physique before. It was only after a long dream that I suddenly realized that the food cooked by me is especially delicious. ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen did not tell Qin Silong that her fingers could spill out the spiritual water.
She was going to make them think that she had some special physique.
Actually, she had already realized that the spiritual water on her finger was not passed down from the Jiang Family, and she did not have any special physique at all.
Spiritual water was definitely the benefit of her transmigration.
Spiritual water was not only used to make food fresh, but also to heal wounds, lure animals, and enhance the effect of medicine.
She was still exploring the other uses.
Qin Zhenzhen smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Fourth Brother, it doesn¡¯t matter. We need to have confidence in ourselves.¡¯
¡°We have been reborn, and if we can¡¯t even deal with the Jiang Family, we would be so useless!¡±
That made Qin Silongugh too. The depressing atmosphere was gone.
The brother and sister got more rxed.
Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°We are selling seasonings, otherwise where can we get the money? Without money, how can we deal with the Jiang Family?¡±
¡°I not only aspire to sell seasonings, but I also have grand ns to establish a soy sauce workshop, a health center, and a physiotherapy center.¡±
¡°I want to make it clear that despite my unique circumstances, I will not allow myself to be manipted by the Jiang Family or be beholden to the royal family!¡±
Qin Silong couldn¡¯t help but admire his sister¡¯s fearless attitude, realizing that Zhenzhen should be grateful for not divorcing Su Bin.
If Zhenzhen remained unmarried, she would be at the mercy of the Emperor¡¯s orders, inevitably forced to enter the pce.
Hence, no matter how difficult the situation, he had to endure it and maintain a rtionship with the inws.
His determination grew stronger; he made up his mind to join the army the following year!
His ultimate goal was to be a general, ensuring the protection of his sister and their entire family.
Early the next morning, Qin Zhenzhen and Fourth Brother returned to the Su Family to continue their work on making seasonings.
However, as they walked through a remote forest, they were unexpectedly confronted by two masked men dressed in ck cloth who suddenly blocked their path. ¡°This is a robbery! Hand over your money!¡±
Qin Silong couldn¡¯t help but be amused. Having acquired somebat skills during his time in the military camp in his previous life, he was just waiting for an opportunity to put them to the test. And now, fate seemed to have handed him two thieves to assess his abilities.
¡°Zhenzhen, stay back and observe how Fourth Brother handles this!¡±
With great confidence, Qin Silong prepared to deal with the situation. The two men appeared to be disguised as vigers, and they hardly posed a challenge for him to handle.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but find the situation peculiar. There was no famine or any apparent reason for vigers to resort to robbery, especially since she and her brother didn¡¯t possess a significant amount of money.
She began to suspect that these two men might not be genuine vigers but were impersonating them for some unknown reason. Concerned for her brother¡¯s safety, she quickly warned him, ¡°Fourth Brother, be careful, they might be posing as robbers!¡±
The moment Qin Zhenzhen finished her words, the two men pulled out their knives, but their target was Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°If you don¡¯t want to die, give me all the money!¡±
But it was also strange that the man had a local ent..
Chapter 148 - 148: Sack
Chapter 148: Sack
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong was furious. ¡°You have to get past me if you want my sister¡¯s money!¡±
Qin Silong fearlessly lunged at the two men, engaging them in a bare-handed fight. Despite their knives, the men proved to be mere hooligans, unable to inflict any harm on Qin Silong, who skillfully repelled their attacks.
Meanwhile, two more masked men suddenly emerged from the woods and swiftly headed towards Qin Zhenzhen. Sensing danger, she sprang forward, but the two men swiftly caught up with her, effectively blocking her path.
¡°Don¡¯t hurt my sister!¡±
Qin Silong panicked. The two men who appeared behind him were very good at moving around.
It became evident that the two men facing Qin Silong were merely a distraction, meant to stall him while their true intention was to target his sister.
This was no ordinary robbery; it was a well-nned and sinister scheme.
Qin Silong felt a surge of concern for his sister, knowing he was too far away to intervene in time if the two men decided to harm her.
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback by the sudden turn of events, but she knew she had to remainposed. Realizing the gravity of the situation, she decided to act pragmatically and tossed the money she had on her to the ground as a
means to appease the assants
¡°I will give you all the money¡¡±
But the two men ignored the money, and one of them even shook out a sack.
Qin Zhenzhen turned pale. Was he trying to put a gunny sack over her?
So it was not robbery, but rape!
No, it was definitely not a rape. She was a fat girl after all. It would be so tiring to carry her around!
The short man who did not have the sack stepped forward and tried to knock Qin Zhenzhen out.
In a swift move, Qin Zhenzhen cleverly kicked leaves and sand into the masked man¡¯s eyes, forcing him to shield his face with his sleeves.
Seizing the opportunity, Qin Zhenzhen dashed forward, fully aware that these two men were highly skilled in martial arts and she had no weapons to defend herself. She understood they were after her and realized that escaping to a popted area would be her best chance of getting help.
The man carrying the sack pursued her relentlessly, threatening, ¡°Stop if you don¡¯t want to die!¡±
Qin Silong had rushed to the scene, but he found himself confronted by the short man who was skilled in kung fu and wielding a knife. This left Qin Silong feeling trapped and anxious.
As the man with the sack closed in on Qin Zhenzhen, he reached out and grabbed her clothes, making her believe that her capture was inevitable. However, her determination kicked in, and she mustered the courage to strike the man¡¯s stomach, targeting a sensitive acupoint that would inflict unbearable pain.
The man held his stomach and paused. The sack fell to the ground.
Soon, he arrived.
¡°How dare you touch my Third Sister-inw!¡±
Then he started to fight with the man. Luckily, he had a knife with him.
Qin Zhenzhen took the chance and went out to get help.
But he was not as capable as Qin Silong. He was soon knocked down by the masked man.
Upon seeing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sessful escape from the woods, the man chasing her realized he couldn¡¯t catch up. Deciding to prioritize the group¡¯s safety, he turned around to confront Qin Silong, hoping to engage him long enough for hispanions to make their escape.
Qin Silong could handle one opponent reasonably well, but facing two at once put him in a perilous position. However, he also noticed that these men didn¡¯t appear to be intending to kill him. This realization encouraged him to hold his ground and buy time. He was aware that Qin Zhenzhen had likely called for help, which meant the attackers would soon be caught.
They needed to figure out who they were and why they wanted to catch
Zhenzhen.
In this intense confrontation, Qin Silong faced thebined attacks of the two hooligans. Despite the odds, his courage and determination were growing..
Chapter 149 - 149: Last Hope
Chapter 149: Last Hope
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Seeing that Qin Silong was not easily getting defeated, the masked man grew even more enraged. In a desperate move, one of them raised a knife and viciously stabbed it towards Qin Silong¡¯s back.
Undeterred, Qin Silong was determined to deal with the remaining three attackers. As he got up, he prepared to confront them, but suddenly, one of the assants swiftly moved in and pressed down on Qin Silong¡¯s back, forcefully driving the sharp knife deep into his body.
A horrified scream escaped Su Ping¡¯s lips as he witnessed the deadly attack. The sight of this violent act caused the other masked men to panic, and they quickly fled the scene.
Qin Silong¡¯s expression turned grim as he felt the knife lodged in his back. The de had prated deeply, leaving him in excruciating pain and dire circumstances.
His clothes were stained with blood.
Pale, he tried his best to bear the pain.
Qin Zhenzhen had just run out of the woods when she heard the scream. She rushed back.
It was morning, and the road was very remote.Tthere were no vigers to be seen.
¡°Zhenzhen, he is injured, the wound is deep¡¡±
Qin Silong had no idea what to do.
The knife had struck a dangerous position, right near his heart. Despite the wound being on his back, its depth posed a severe risk, potentially affecting his heart.
The situation was critical, and removing the knife without proper treatment could be fatal. If the knife was pulled out, it could result in uncontroble bleeding, leading to his death.
Despite having experienced life and death situations on the battlefield, Qin Silong felt utterly helpless in this moment of crisis.
Realizing the gravity of his condition, he understood that he might not survive.
Gazing at Qin Zhenzhen, he managed to speak intermittently, ¡°Third Sister-inw, I had intended toe to your home and ask you to apany my Third Brother to the prefecture for the examination. But I never imagined that things would turn out like this¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen saw the knife stuck in his back and stopped him.
¡°Don¡¯t talk now!¡±
But he did not listen to her. ¡°If I don¡¯t tell you now, I might not have the chance
to¡¡±
¡°Can you promise me not to divorce my third brother and leave my brother and sister alone?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was annoyed. ¡°What are you talking about? You won¡¯t die!¡± If she didn¡¯t have the spiritual water on her finger, she wouldn¡¯t have dared to make such a statement.
Knowing that as long as his internal organs weren¡¯t affected, she could use the spiritual water to stop the bleeding and heal his wound, she felt confident in her ability to save him.
Observing his ability to talk, she deduced that his heart wasn¡¯t injured, which was a stroke of luck.
Yet, despite the potential hope, Qin Silong shook his head with a sense of resignation. ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll make it to the doctor. Before I pass, I need to hear your promise to apany my brother for the examination¡¡±
¡°My Third Brother said that you have a pair of eyes that can turn misfortune into fortune¡
Su Ping¡¯s voice got smaller and smaller, and his face turned paler.
Qin Silong felt very ufortable.
He had once envisioned seeking revenge against his brother, but now he found himself faced with the reality of dying for him.
In this critical moment, Qin Zhenzhen made a resolute decision, instructing
Qin Silong with determination, ¡°Fourth Brother, go to the field and fetch some Mbar plums to stop the bleeding. I will remove the knife for him.¡±
However, Qin Silong disagreed, concerned that removing the knife could worsen the situation and cause more bleeding. He suggested urgently, ¡°No, we can¡¯t risk it. Let¡¯s take him to the doctor in town!¡±
Unyielding, Qin Zhenzhen raised her voice, insisting, ¡°Fourth Brother, please listen to me. I truly believe I can treat his wounds! It¡¯s toote to get him to town now. You must go and find the Mbar plum that can stop the bleeding!¡±
She had a hidden secret; she possessed the spirit water, but she didn¡¯t want Qin Silong to suspect her true identity as a monster. To protect him, she had to drive him away so she could handle the situation herself.
Seeing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s determined look, Qin Silong went out to find the
Mbar plum.
Well, she was going to try her best..
Chapter 150 - 150: Report
Chapter 150: Report
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After Qin Silong had left, Qin Zhenzhen carefullyid Su Ping face down on the ground, preparing to remove the knife.
¡°I¡¯ll try to remove the knife, but I must warn you that it might be painful. Just bear with it,¡± she said.
Su Ping managed a bitter smile. Even on the brink of death, he noticed that Qin Zhenzhen still didn¡¯t seem to approve of his request. It appeared she was determined to divorce his Third Brother.
¡°I¡¯m not afraid of the pain,¡± he replied, torn between wanting to live a little longer and feeling the blurriness of his consciousness. Uncertain if he should stop Qin Zhenzhen from helping him, he decided to make onest attempt to survive.
He closed his eyes, bracing himself for what was toe.
As Qin Zhenzhen carefully exposed the wound, she tried to soothe Su Ping¡¯s nerves, telling him, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, the wound seems shallow. I¡¯ll stop the bleeding, and you¡¯ll pull through.¡±
But Su Ping couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly; he knew she was lying.
He could even feel the de piercing in, otherwise he would not have lost consciousness.
Qin Zhenzhen acted swiftly, first applying the spiritual water to the wound and then carefully removing the knife. With remarkable speed, she used one hand to press on the wound to stem the bleeding while continuing to drip the spiritual water on it with her other hand.
Despite her efforts, blood continued to gush out, but she managed to bring it under control soon after.
When the knife was pulled out, Su Ping couldn¡¯t help but scream in pain. However, to his surprise, the pain subsided rather quickly.
As he had been drifting towards unconsciousness, he suddenly felt more alert. Turning to Qin Zhenzhen, he asked, ¡°Third Sister-inw, has the bleeding stopped?¡±
¡°It is basically stopped. I put in hemostatic powder, which is sundried and crushed with Mbar plum.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen used the handkerchief to wipe away the bloodstains, so the wound could be closed more easily.
Su Ping cried tears of joy. ¡°I won¡¯t die¡¡¯
¡°Of course not!¡±
At that crucial moment, Qin Silong rushed back to the scene with two vigers trailing behind him. As he had hurried to find the Mbar plum, the vigers had found his behavior peculiar, prompting them to follow him and discover what was happening.
Upon reaching the spot, Qin Silong shouted, ¡°Zhenzhen, we found the Mbar plum, and it¡¯s clean!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen reassured him, ¡°I applied some dried Mbar plum powder, and the bleeding has stopped. Please help me crush the plums and ce them on the wound; it will be safer that way.¡±
Although Qin Silong was puzzled by the fact that Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t bleed much after removing the knife, he refrained from asking further questions. Instead, he obediently crushed the Mbar plums and applied them to Su Ping¡¯s wound, trusting his sister-inw¡¯s judgment.
Qin Zhenzhen let out a sigh of relief. She did not reveal that she had spirit water.
The two vigers were shocked and asked what was going on.
Qin Zhenzhen recounted the whole story.
The vigers were even more surprised. ¡°There are robbers in the countryside in broad daylight?¡±
¡°Oh my god, what is going on here?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen did not intend to exin any more.
At this moment, more vigers came.
They all confirmed what Qin Zhenzhen said.
¡°No wonder I saw some men running in that direction. They almost killed someone!¡±
Then they started toe up with ideas.
¡°Can one of you get the vige chief here to deal with this?¡±
¡°Someone almost died. We have to report this to the governmental office.¡± ¡°If we don¡¯t catch them, we will never pass through this forest again!¡± ¡°You didn¡¯t get robbed of your money, but this man is injured. When they are caught, they have to pay thepensation..¡±
Chapter 151 - 151: Carrying You Home
Chapter 151: Carrying You Home
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in agreement. ¡°You¡¯re right. We must report this to the governmental office!¡±
¡°But for now, our priority should be getting him back home safely.¡±
¡°When the chief arrives, please inform him about the situation. If he needs more details, tell him to visit our home.¡±
The vigers all supported Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s decision.
At this point, Qin Silong had already torn off the cloth and expertly bandaged his wound. He was well-versed in first aid.
Though still pale, Qin Silong¡¯s spirits were rising, and he no longer feared for his life. He even had the energy to ask Qin Silong various questions.
¡°Is the wound really not deep? I felt like I was dying at first, but now it seems like it¡¯s not a big issue.¡±
Qin Silong also found this peculiar. He recalled the time when Qin Zhenzhen had a forehead injury. Despite the significant bleeding, the wound turned out to be just a shallow scar.
Was Zhenzhen hiding something from him?
But he decided not to voice his suspicions. Instead, he yfully teased Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°You were scared out of your wits, yet the wound is not deep at all!¡± This remark embarrassed Qin Zhenzhen.
Su Ping chimed in, exining, ¡°I never expected to be so timid after getting injured.. ¡®
He looked ratherical.
Suppressing hisughter, Qin Silong responded seriously, ¡°You¡¯re not a coward at all. In fact, you¡¯re incredibly brave. I must thank you for saving my life.¡±
If the knife had stabbed him, it would have hit him right in the heart. Qin Silong realized that he owed Su Ping his life this time, and he felt the need to express his gratitude.
Su Ping, who had now calmed down, spoke in a business-like tone, ¡°What are you thanking me for? I would have saved you even if you were just a friend. You¡¯re my brother¡¯s brother-inw, and I would have done anything to get you out of danger!¡±
Qin Silong reassessed Su Ping and believed he was sincere. That was just who he was ¨C a loyal person who valued friendship and would do anything for his friends. Such loyalty and fierceness were traits shaped by the environment they were born into.
Setting those thoughts aside, Qin Silong helped Su Ping to his feet and offered, ¡°I¡¯ll carry you home.¡±
Su Ping yfully joked, ¡°Can you handle it? I¡¯m not light!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t underestimate me; get on my back now!¡± replied Qin Silong.
Qin Zhenzhen followed closely behind them, making sure to take the knife with her. She thought they might be able to trace the culprit through it. She was certain that those men were disguised as robbers, but their true intention was to kidnap her.
The question remained: who sent them?
The prime suspects were either the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion or the Jiang Family from the capital. However, Qin Zhenzhen leaned towards thetter as being more likely.
She suspected that the Jiang Family intended to kidnap her to determine if she possessed any special abilities or physique. If she did, they would never let her go.
The reason was that she was already married to Su Bin, and if she indeed had something valuable, they would return her to the Jiang Family openly rather than handing her over to the pce.
Additionally, there was the matter of her virginity, which was widely known she had not slept with Su Bin yet. This fact held significance and seemed to y a part in their sinister ns.
As the realization dawned on Qin Zhenzhen that she could have been kidnapped and given a new identity to serve the interests of the Jiang Family, a sense of ruthlessness consumed her.
The thought of being exploited in such a manner made her furious. If the Jiang Family was indeed behind this, she wouldn¡¯t let them off so easily. She would take a stand and fight back with all her strength..
Chapter 152 - 152: Stop Talking
Chapter 152: Stop Talking
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong shared the same belief as Qin Zhenzhen ¨C the Jiang Family was the more likely culprit behind the incident.
He couldn¡¯t fathom how despicable the Jiang Family could be. Now, he understood why Grandma had warned them about their past and urged Qin Zhenzhen not to get divorced.
Deep in thought, Qin Silong was interrupted by Su Ping, who asked, ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡±
¡°I¡¯m trying to figure out who those bastards are,¡± Qin Silong replied with a furrowed brow.
Su Ping¡¯s anger red, ¡°Aren¡¯t they just robbers? Dumb bandits trying to rob a rich man!¡±
¡°But it seems like they had a particr interest in Third Sister-inw; they had sacks ready. Do you think they want to capture her and enve her?¡±
He refrained from using the term ¡°Madame of the bandits,¡± but the more he pondered the situation, the more convinced he became of the truth.
He reasoned that everyone believed Third Sister-inw to be a lucky star, bringing prosperity to the family. Thus, it wasn¡¯t surprising for bloodstained bandits to covet a wife capable of bringing fortune and prosperity to a household.
Qin Silong sneered inwardly ¨C he was such a stupid man!
The idea of them attempting to make her the ¡°madame of the bandits¡± disgusted him. It all made sense now ¨C they were bandits, after all.
Initially, he had thought the attack might have been orchestrated by those who wanted to obstruct his brother from taking the examination. They might have nned to abduct Qin Zhenzhen to pressure Su Bin into giving up the imperial examination, seeing how she had been helping him turn misfortune into fortune.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face darkened as she cursed inwardly. How could Qin Silong entertain such a preposterous idea that those bandits intended to make her the Madame of their gang?
She admonished him firmly, ¡°Stop talking now, or you risk reopening the wound on your back and bleeding again!¡±
Finally, he heeded her warning and fell silent.
Due to Su Bin¡¯s impending departure back to the county, Su Ning and the others didn¡¯t head up the mountain early that day. Instead, they decided to have breakfast with Third Brother and wait for him to leave before going to dig yams.
The night before, Su Lan had struck a deal with Third Brother, requesting him to persuade Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong to apany Su Bin to the prefecture until the end of the examination. The family would cover all the expenses incurred during their stay.
In the morning, she wanted Third Brother to visit Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s home early to discuss this n. However, what she hadn¡¯t anticipated was that some vigers informed her that something had happened to him!
They ran into robbers and Su Ping got stabbed in the back.
Shocked, Su Lan and the others rushed out of the house.
Qin Silong carried him back.
Seeing that he was covered in blood, Su Ning burst into tears.
¡°Second Brother, {are you okay?¡±
Su Lan asked as well. ¡°Are you badly injured?¡±
Su Ping smiled. ¡°I am not seriously injured. But thanks to Third Sister-inw¡¯s treatment, the wound is not bleeding any more.¡±
¡°But Third Sister-inw told me not to talk, otherwise the wound would open¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was speechless. What was wrong with him? He had said so much before he remembered what she said.
Su Bin looked at him strangely too. ¡°She told you not to talk. Why are you talking so much?¡±
He stopped himself from saying anything more.
They helped to put him down.
Su Lan went to boil water.
They needed hot water to change clothes and wipe away the blood.
Qin Zhenzhen recounted the whole story.
Su Bin¡¯s face sank.
He took Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong to the study.
¡°Those people are most likely sent by the people who try to stop me from taking the examination.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen pretended to be confused.. ¡°Then why did they try to kidnap
Chapter 153 - 153: Not Bullied
Chapter 153: Not Bullied
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin turned to Qin Zhenzhen. He seemed to be asking her ¨C didn¡¯t you know about that?
Qin Zhenzhen cursed inwardly ¨C of course I know, but I am not telling anyone!
Su Bin told her with a teasing tone.
¡°Isn¡¯t it rumored that you are the lucky star of our family?¡±
¡°They might kidnap you and ruin my luck, so I won¡¯t make it to Cultivated
Talent. ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen frowned. ¡°You believe that?¡±
Su Bin said, ¡°I have to believe that. That is the truth.¡± ¡°So, it is my fault for dragging you down this time.¡±
¡°For your safety, you don¡¯t have to follow me to the prefecture.¡±
¡°I want to see how they set me up!¡±
Speaking of this, Su Bin¡¯s eyes turned cold.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t resist asking, ¡°Do you have any idea why someone would try to stop you from taking the examination?¡±
Su Bin hesitated for a moment and then shared his thoughts, ¡°I don¡¯t believe we have any significant grudges with anyone, including our parents and siblings. The only usible reason could be our family background.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen silently acknowledged his astute observation. He was indeed a sharp thinker, honing in on the crux of the matter.
Su Bin continued, ¡°I believe someone is attempting to suppress us, ensuring we never seed.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen probed further, attempting to stimte his thinking, ¡°Then who could it be? Perhaps a rtive or a distant rtive?¡±
Su Bin shook his head, dismissing the possibility, ¡°I don¡¯t think so, as my father has assured us that we have no rtives remaining.¡±
¡°Have you never considered the possibility that your father might have been lying?¡± Qin Zhenzhen asked directly.
Su Bin looked deeply into Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eyes and questioned, ¡°Do you know something?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head, rifying, ¡°No, it¡¯s just a guess.¡±
¡°But think about it. Those who want to harm you could be either your rtives or distant rtives, or they could be your enemies.¡±
¡°But you mentioned that your parents and siblings haven¡¯t had any conflicts with anyone here, so the enemies must be in the capital.¡±
¡°If they are indeed enemies and they know you¡¯re here, they might be worried that your presence could cause them trouble. Why wouldn¡¯t they just kill you outright? Why go through all the effort to stop you from taking the imperial examination?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words shocked Su Bin.
He had thought about this before.
But he had not expected that a vige girl like Qin Zhenzhen would be able to think of such aplicated question.
He saw the wisdom in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eyes.
When Qin Zhenzhen was talking nonsense in the court, Su Bin had noticed that too, when his sister was set up by Wang Yizhi.
It seemed that he was going to get to know Qin Zhenzhen again.
Su Bin looked at Qin Silong and drove him away directly. ¡°Can I speak with your sister alone?¡±
Qin Silong was very displeased, but he still turned to Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Fourth Brother, go and check on Su Ping.¡±
Qin Silong nced at Su Bin. ¡°If you dare bully my sister, don¡¯t me me for being rough!¡±
Su Bin was speechless.
How could a weak schr like him bully Qin Zhenzhen?
He heard from his sister that Qin Zhenzhen drove away four or five people with a stick, including two strong men.
He was lucky not to be bullied by her!
But Su Bin was not worried that Qin Zhenzhen would force herself on him, either.
He already knew that Qin Zhenzhen really wanted to divorce him..
Chapter 154 - 154: Storytelling
Chapter 154: Storytelling
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen gave Qin Silong a reassuring look.
How could she be bullied by Su Bin?
She was going to have a talk with Su Bin alone.
Only now did Qin Silong leave the study.
Su Bin pulled the chair and sat down, looking as if he was going to have a long talk. But he looked quite expectant andplicated.
¡°I think you might know something.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen asked him back. ¡°How would I know about your family?¡±
¡°Because your grandma is from the capital too!¡± Qin Zhenzhen was startled. ¡°How did you know?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s face turned unnatural.
¡°We will know if we want to know.¡±
He had harbored resentment towards Qin Zhenzhen and her family, never entertaining the idea of a genuine rtionship with her. As a result, he had never bothered to inquire about her family¡¯s situation.
However, as time passed, he noticed a change in Qin Zhenzhen. She became more capable and rational, prompting him to wonder what had brought about this transformation. Consequently, he began to ask her about her family.
Qin Zhenzhen informed him that her grandmother was visually impaired and unable to perform farm work. Despite living in the countryside for so long, many people had heard her speak the officialnguage of the capital.
Yet, when it came to his family, Qin Zhenzhen asserted with conviction, ¡°I can swear to you that my grandmother knows nothing about your family.¡±
¡°You don¡¯t think that before I forced you to marry me, my grandma already found out about your family¡¯s background in the capital, so she made me marry you?¡±
Su Bin was a little disappointed.
¡°So, you¡¯re suggesting that we have rtives in the capital?¡± Su Bin asked, trying to process the information.
¡°My father is the one who left home?¡± he continued, seeking further rification.
¡°And they don¡¯t want us to return to the capital, especially someone like me, who might excel in the imperial examination and have a promising future?¡± Su Bin pondered aloud.
Qin Zhenzhen admired Su Bin¡¯s intelligence as he seemed to be inching closer to the truth. However, she decided not to reveal that she already knew the reality behind it all. She kept her knowledge to herself. ¡°You are right. That is what is written in the script.¡±
Su Bin stared at Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°You have heard of this y before?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Yeah, I heard about this from my grandma when I was little.¡± ¡°Can you tell me the story?¡±
¡°Sure!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded and started to tell the story she had made up.
¡°My grandma describes it as a story, an inspirational one,¡± Qin Zhenzhen began, recounting the tale.
¡°In the capital, there is a wealthy family with the surname Zhu. Old Master Zhu has a wife and a concubine. The women in the family constantly plot against each other, trying to gain favor and attention, even at the expense of the children. ¡±
¡°His wife may not have been exceptionally beautiful, but she was highly talented. She gave birth to a son who proved to be incredibly intelligent, surpassing his siblings.¡±
¡°However, trouble arose when Old Master Zhu grew infatuated with his concubine and conspired to kill his wife. The concubine was exceptionally beautiful, and Old Master Zhuvished her with affection. As a result, she began plotting to drug and harm the first wife.¡±
¡°Then she tried to hurt his wife¡¯s son.¡¯
¡°Her son hated father for not saving his mother¡¯s life and punishing the woman, so he ran away from home.¡±
¡°He found something else to do, got married and had children. He swore never to return to that family, but he still wanted to vent his anger. He told his son to study hard and make it through the imperial examination.¡±
¡°After 10 or 20 years, his son became an adult and passed the examination from Elementary Level to Advanced Schr. Then he went into the capital to take the final examination..
Chapter 155 - 155: Storytelling
Chapter 155: Storytelling
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°At that moment, Old Master Zhu finally realized the ipetence of his remaining sons, and his thoughts kept drifting towards his eldest son who had left home.¡¯
¡°Feeling a deep sense of indebtedness to his estranged son, he desired to locate him and make him the heir to the family business, a move that would allow him to entrust the legacy to someone worthy.¡±
¡°Thus, Old Master Zhu dispatched someone to search for Young Master Zhu, while Madame Zhu, who had be his wife, also set out to find him.¡¯
¡°However, it was Madame Zhu who managed to locate Young Master Zhu¡¯s son before her husband did.
¡°Young Master Zhu¡¯s son had spent all his savings to travel to the capital for the examination. In order to pay the examination fees, he had to pawn the jade his father had once given him.¡±
¡°It is because of this jade that Madame Zhu was able to confirm his identity.¡±
¡°In order to stop him from taking the examination, Madame Zhu set up a case to frame him.¡¯
¡°Fortunately, the judge was very observant and cleared his name in the end, so he could make it to the next level.¡¯
¡°Madame Zhu was punished.¡±
¡°After he became the Primus, Old Master Zhu went to the countryside to fetch his son home and promised to give him all the properties.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen paused.
Su Bin was very interested in the story.
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°Well, what do you think would be the most fitting ending?¡±
Without any hesitation, Su Bin responded, ¡°Considering that we have already fled from home and severed ties with the family, there¡¯s no point in acknowledging our ancestors anymore.¡±
He pointed out that even when they were poor, they managed to achieve sess without the support of the family. As a result, they no longer needed to abide by the family¡¯s wishes.
Even if they were rted by blood, they would not admit that!
Qin Zhenzhen nodded inwardly ¨C he was right.
But ording to the book, Su Bin not only did not want to return to the family, but he also wanted to destroy the whole Marquis¡¯ Residence.
¡°You are right.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen finished the story.
¡°Young Master Zhu didn¡¯t want his family business either, and he refused to return to the family.¡±
¡°Young Master Zhu¡¯s son became the Prime Minister and helped his father to stand tall.¡±
Su Bin asked, ¡°Young Master Zhu let Old Master Zhu go just like that?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen looked at him in surprise. ¡°What else can we do? We can¡¯t just kill him. He is his grandpa, after all.¡±
Su Bin was startled. So what if it was his grandfather? He had allowed his concubine to kill Young Master Zhu¡¯s mother, which was a capital crime!
But he did not say that out loud.
Qin Zhenzhen added.
¡°Young Master Zhu chose not to seek revenge on Old Master Zhu, but it appears that Old Master Zhu¡¯ster years were far from prosperous. Eventually, all the family properties were squandered by his descendants,¡± Qin Zhenzhen recounted.
Su Bin fell into a long silence, feeling as though Qin Zhenzhen was deliberately sharing this story with him. He couldn¡¯t help but connect certain details of his father¡¯s life with elements of the tale. Despite his father iming that all rtives in the capital were deceased, Su Bin sensed a strong undercurrent of bitterness in his words.
Moreover, his father had urged him to study diligently and attain the top position in the imperial examination, making it clear that this was the only way to achieve greatness and sess.
In the story, Young Master Zhu asked his son to do the same.
The only difference was that Young Master Zhu told his son about his background, and his father did not have the time to tell him..
Chapter 156 - 156: Story
Chapter 156: Story
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin looked at Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°You think that our family is in the same situation as in this y?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled. ¡°They can¡¯t be exactly the same. That is the story in the book!¡±
¡°Also, I didn¡¯t say that. You guessed it yourself. I just suddenly remembered that there is such a story.¡±
¡°If you think that there is something wrong with your background, you have to go to the capital to find out the secret of your background.¡±
The only way to get to the capital was definitely through the imperial examination.
She did not need to say a thing. Su Bin already knew what was going on.
Su Bin fell silent again.
Qin Zhenzhen suddenly asked him. ¡°You said just now that you believe that I can bring fortune to the family, and the husband?¡±
Su Bin red at her. Didn¡¯t she say that she wanted a divorce? Why was she calling him her husband?
Qin Zhenzhen ignored him and said nothing. She continued. ¡°What about a deal with you?¡±
¡°What deal?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°If I am as the rumor says, and bring fortune to the family and help you stand on the list, can you promise me one thing?¡±
Su Bin was very displeased. ¡°What is it? Is it a divorce paper?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen said nothing, which meant that she agreed. Su Bin said coldly, ¡°What if I don¡¯t agree?¡±
He would never feelfortable thinking about divorcing him.
He suddenly felt like scolding Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°If I don¡¯t agree, are you going to drop me?¡±
¡°Only ignorant people would say something like this!¡±
¡°They are treating you as a god!¡±
¡°I admit that you are capable and lucky, but luck runs out. Just like this morning, if my Second Brother had not arrived, you would have been kidnapped!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen got stuck in words. She flushed.
That man was right!
That was exactly what Su Bin wanted. He continued.
¡°I already said that I don¡¯t need you to follow me to the prefecture, in case you get killed.¡±
¡°I told you about the divorce, and we can talk about it. But I don¡¯t want to hear you talking about this all the time. You want to make a deal with this!¡± ¡°You are the one who provoked me first! I am in charge of the divorce!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen got angry too. ¡°Why are you so unreasonable?¡±
¡°You don¡¯t like me, why not divorce me?¡±
Su Bin asked her back. ¡°You knew that I did not like you, so why did you force yourself to marry me?¡±
¡°Stop trying to change people¡¯s hearts! We have never crossed paths before!¡±
¡°By the way, my heart is as cold as ice, never warm!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen flushed again.
Damn it! Why did they have to catch the original host¡¯s mistake?
Didn¡¯t she already make it up to his family?
Well, he had already turned her down so she would not continue to make her rich.
The two of them ended the conversation on bad terms.
Qin Zhenzhen left the study angrily and continued to make seasonings for her.
Qin Silong inquired, ¡°Did Su Bin mistreat you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°He might be a feeble schr, but he has a sharp tongue.
I witnessed it myself today.¡±
¡°What did he say about you?¡±
¡°He ims to be in control of whether we get divorced or not. He even stated that we don¡¯t need to apany him to the prefectural city. ording to him, I am simply a misfortune!¡±
Qin Silong¡¯s anger red, and he dered, ¡°Then we won¡¯t go to the prefecture!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen sighed, feeling the weight of the situation.
¡°We must find a way to help him,¡± Qin Silong added.
¡°Exactly,¡± Qin Zhenzhen agreed, ¡°but how can we use him to deal with the Jiang Family?¡±
Chapter 157 - 157: Not That
Chapter 157: Not That
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Due to his injury, Su Lan and the others abandoned their n to dig yams in the mountains and devoted their time to taking care of him.
Su Ping recounted the entire story, detailing the events he had experienced.
The brother and sister analysed the whole thing.
Su Lan said, ¡°I don¡¯t think they were real robbers!¡±
¡°I suspect that it has something to do with the person who set up Third Brother!¡±
Su Qing added. ¡°I think so too. Actually, Third Brother has thought of this too, otherwise he would not have asked Third Sister-inw to go to the study.¡± After a while, Su Ning came in and whispered to them.
¡°Third Sister-inw and Third Brother might have had an argument just now. I saw Third Sister-inwing out in anger, and Third Brother did not have a good look on his face either.¡±
They all asked at the same time, ¡°What are they arguing about?¡±
Su Ning shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I wanted to eavesdrop, but I didn¡¯t hear anything.¡±
Before Su Bin left for the town, he made sure to visit Qin Silong.
To his surprise, Qin Silong no longer looked pale, and the bleeding had stopped. Instead, he appeared full of energy and vitality.
Su Bin was relieved, realizing that the wound wasn¡¯t as severe as he had initially feared.
Nheless, he couldn¡¯t help but admire Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s skill in treating wounds.
¡°Second Brother, you can stay at home and recuperate. I am heading back to the town.¡±
Su Ping asked anxiously, ¡°Are you going to the town alone? Will Third
Sister-inw and the others be there too?¡±
Su Bin asked him back. ¡°You think the robbers are ordinary ones?¡±
Su Ping shook his head. ¡°I thought they were robbers at first, but when I think about it, I don¡¯t think so.¡±
¡°Third Brother, do you suspect that this incident is rted to the people who framed you?¡± Qin Zhenzhen inquired.
Su Bin nodded in agreement, ¡°Yes, if this is connected to those who set me up, then I¡¯ve inadvertently put her in danger. If she continues to follow me to the prefecture, her life might be at risk.¡±
¡°Therefore, I won¡¯t allow her to apany us any further, and you don¡¯t need to persuade her either!¡±
¡°I promise you that I¡¯ll take care of myself!¡±
¡°Wait for my good news!¡±
Having made his decision, Su Bin picked up the modest package and rented a carriage back to the town.
Su Lan didn¡¯t dare to say anything more, recognizing the importance of her son¡¯s determination and the risks involved in the situation.
Su Ping let out a sigh, ¡°Third Brother is concerned about his reputation and doesn¡¯t want to owe any favors to Third Sister-inw. But if she gets implicated, we won¡¯t be able to seek her help anymore.¡±
As soon as Su Bin departed, the vige chief arrived with two men in tow. Robbers had invaded the vige and caused injuries, a grave situation that should have warranted immediate attention. However, the vige chief¡¯s arrival came quitete.
Upon learning what had transpired, he turned his displeasure towards Qin Zhenzhen, expressing his disapproval, ¡°In all these years, we¡¯ve never encountered robbers in our vige.¡±
Implicitly, he seemed to suggest that it was Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s fault for attracting the robbers.
In reality, he held her ountable for not informing him about the value of the yams, just like Qian Dashan¡¯s family, who also didn¡¯t cultivate the fields close to the vige.
Faraway from the vige, yams rarely grew, and it was not easy to develop them into nting fields.
¡°I hope you can keep a low-profile.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen raised her eyebrows. ¡°How?¡±
¡°You¡¯re suggesting that it¡¯s my fault for providing the vigers with an opportunity to improve their lives, and now they¡¯ve be targets for robbers?¡± Qin Zhenzhen questioned the vige chief.
¡°Are you saying that we should be poorer to avoid attracting bandits?¡± she added, incredulous at the idea.
The chief, feeling cornered, denied it, ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡±
He understood that if he admitted to such a viewpoint, the vigers would oppose him, and he might lose his position as vige chief.
He had been a good vige chief before, ensuring that the fields were exempt from taxation, and the men received subsidies from the town every month, while also not needing to work asborers..
Chapter 158 - 158: Away From Su Bin
Chapter 158: Away From Su Bin
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen was already in a bad mood after being scolded by Su Bin.
She turned even more angry towards the vige chief.
¡°Not because I simply pointed out a way for the vigers to make money, but because I actually made a substantial amount myself?¡± Qin Zhenzhen responded firmly.
The vige chief was already aware that Qin Zhenzhen was not someone to be taken lightly, but he hadn¡¯t anticipated her to retort so fiercely. He felt a twinge of anger rising within him, ¡°You did attract the robbers, so I can¡¯t help but think that way!¡±
He warned her, ¡°You need to be careful not to involve innocent vigers!¡± Qin Zhenzhen sneered, ¡°So you believe that having money is a grave sin?¡±
¡°Then let me ask you this, are the robbers at the border because the current Emperor is wealthy, and the treasury is secure, making foreign robbers envious? So, by your logic, does that mean the current Emperor is also guilty?¡±
¡°Stop talking nonsense!¡±
The vige chief¡¯s face flushed with anger. If news of this confrontation spread, even if the County Magistrate didn¡¯t punish him directly, he would likely lose his position as vige chief.
¡°Whether I¡¯m speaking nonsense or not, the truth will reveal itself!¡± Qin Zhenzhen asserted firmly.
¡°As the vige chief, and with the governmental subsidy, you should be working for the welfare of the vigers instead of ming the victim for what happened to them!¡±
¡°I don¡¯t expect you to solve the problem. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll handle it, and you shouldn¡¯t take knife away, as it might remove crucial evidence!¡± Qin Zhenzhen cunningly avoided handing over the knife.
Frustrated and unable to get what he wanted, the vige chief was eventually forced to leave by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s persistence and clever tactics.
After lunch, Qin Zhenzhen and Fourth Brother returned to the Qin Vige.
The news of the robbery at Qian Vige spread quickly, causing great anxiety among the Qin Family upon learning that Qin Zhenzhen had been the victim.
When the Su Family returned, the Qin Family approached them to inquire about the incident, and Qin Zhenzhen recounted the entire ordeal.
Ms. Yang, feeling relieved, patted her chest and eximed, ¡°Thank goodness for Su Bin¡¯s Second Brother! Otherwise, you might have been taken away by the robbers!¡±
Though Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t refute that statement, she knew that if she were to confront the robbers directly, she could hold her ground. However, both she and her Fourth Brother were at a disadvantage because theycked any weapons.
They had already discussed the need to carry a weapon with them for self-defense in the future.
She was going to keep the knife left by the masked man.
For one thing, they could find clues, and for another, they could be used as self-defense weapons.
That was a very good knife.
Qin Dalong asked. ¡°Zhenzhen, are the rumors true?¡± ¡°Elder Brother, which rumor are you talking about?¡±
After all, there were several versions of the rumor.
In the first version, it was suggested that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sess in selling seasonings had earned her a considerable amount of money, making her an attractive target for robbers.
In the second version, it was said that her perceived luck-bringing abilities had led superstitious robbers to attempt kidnapping her, hoping to make their banditry more prosperous by having her as their wife.
The third version implicated Su Bin¡¯s behavior, as he had offended powerful enemies who sought revenge and wanted to hinder his path to the imperial examination.
During a previous attempt, someone tried to frame Su Bin by nting an Analects, but Qin Zhenzhen intervened to prevent it.
As a result, Su Bin¡¯s enemies med Qin Zhenzhen for their failure and sought to humiliate her by kidnapping her, effectively causing humiliation to Su Bin as well.
Qin Dalong carefully listened to all three versions and found the third version to be the most usible.
¡°They say you are a lucky star and that you even helped Su Bin with his setup issue¡¡± Qin Silongmented.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head and responded, ¡°In truth, I¡¯m not entirely sure which version is urate.¡±
Despite her uncertainty, Qin Dalong, his brothers, and their parents firmly believed in the third version.. They earnestly advised Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°You shoulde back home and distance yourself from Su Bin!¡±
Chapter 159 - 159: No Choice
Chapter 159: No Choice
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen questioned them, ¡°But weren¡¯t you all against my divorce before?¡±
Ms. Yang and the others shook their heads in unison. ¡°If your safety is at risk, and there¡¯s a chance of being kidnapped, then divorce is the right decision. Even if Su Bin achieves great sess, you don¡¯t need to concern yourself with him!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but smile. This was a family that truly loved and cared for her, and she was determined to protect them in return.
Grandma Qin had been listening from inside the room, but she didn¡¯te out immediately. After a while, she asked Qin Zhenzhen toe into her room alone.
Ms. Yang quietly advised Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°If your grandma asks about what happened, try not to frighten her too much. She is quite old and might not handle any sudden shocks well.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, mom, I know what to do.¡±
The reason why Grandma Qin only called Qin Zhenzhen and not Qin Silong into the room was because she did not want to arouse the suspicion of her family.
Qin Zhenzhen saw her grandma¡¯s worried look and did not want to tell her what she had guessed.
After telling Grandma what happened, Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°There are three possibilities¡¡±
Grandma Qin interrupted her. ¡°Actually, it is the fourth kind, isn¡¯t it?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I am not sure. I have their daggers with me.¡±
Grandma Qin took the knife and caressed it, looking even worse.
She was very familiar with this kind of knife!
Each of the hired thugs from the Jiang Family had one that looked exactly the same.
¡°It is the Jiang Family!¡±
Old and new grudges welled up in her heart, and Grandma Qin¡¯s face twisted. ¡°I am already in this state because of them, and they still don¡¯t want to let us
¡°In a few days, they will send someone to fetch me!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was not surprised. She had expected that.
¡°What should we do now?¡±
Grandma Qin expressed her thoughts, ¡°Based on their tactics, if one attempt fails, they won¡¯t try the same method again. I believe they wille to me directly and threaten the lives of the entire family, in order to force you back to the Jiang Family and use you for their own purposes.¡±
¡°Then your brothers and parents will be taken to the capital together, and they will never be free again.¡±
¡°You can think about whether you want to join the Jiang Family or have freedom.
Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°Don¡¯t think about it. I don¡¯t want my future to be controlled by anyone.¡±
Madame Qinfortingly patted Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Grandma knows you will make the right choice. There is only one way ¨C you should go to Su
Bin. ¡±
¡°Let them believe that you and Su Bin are together, or that you have revealed
Su Bin¡¯s identity, and that you are relying on the power of the Duke Mansion to make the Jiang Family back off.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen remained silent, contemting the difficult decision before her. She and Su Bin had just had a heated argument, and their rtionship was back to how it used to be ¨C distant and strained.
Initially, she had wanted to go to the prefecture with her Fourth Brother to support Su Bin.
She had just said that she wanted a divorce paper, and now she was pretending to be in a deep rtionship with him?
Su Bin would think that she was crazy!
But she knew that she had no other choice. She had no power to counter the Jiang Family.
Grandma Qin tried to persuade her.
¡°Zhenzhen, I know that you know what Su Bin will be in the future, so you don¡¯t like him. But you can try and see if you can change him. If you really can¡¯t, you can divorce him in the future.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded.
¡°Grandma, Fourth Brother and I will go to the county in the afternoon. And the day after tomorrow, we will follow them to the prefecture..¡±
Chapter 160 - 160: To the Prefecture
Chapter 160: To the Prefecture
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the afternoon, Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong managed to convince the family to pack some simple clothes and pass on the seasonings to her cousin in the town.
However, Yang Gan, being a protective brother, naturally voiced his objections. ¡°You should think this through carefully,¡± he warned.
¡°From what I can tell, Su Bin must have a formidable enemy. You¡¯ve already faced danger once, why do you want to get involved again?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was their sister¡¯s beloved, and if anything happened to her, their sister would be devastated. Yang Gan couldn¡¯t bear the thought of her facing any more risks.
They were uncles, and they needed to be persuaded.
But Qin Zhenzhen did not want to listen to anything she said. She was basing it on one thing ¨C
¡°It is a fact that I married Su Bin. If Su Bin is unlucky, it is my fault. If he doesn¡¯t get better, I won¡¯t either.¡± ¡°Honestly, if he dies, I will be a widow.¡±
¡°So I must go to the prefecture.¡±
¡°Maybe I can really bring luck to him. But whether or not I can save him, I need to give it a try.¡±
Yang Gan reminded Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°I heard that Su Bin doesn¡¯t like you. Aren¡¯t you afraid that your efforts will be in vain?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt a mix of guilt and embarrassment as she fabricated a lie,
¡°That was in the past. Su Bin and I are already in a good rtionship now.¡±
Her face flushed, and she hoped her family wouldn¡¯t see through her deception. To her surprise, Yang Gan misinterpreted her blushing as shyness, not realizing she was actually lying.
Inside, Yang Gan couldn¡¯t help but sigh at theplexities of love.
Qin Silong had not said a thing. When Yang Gan asked him, he said that the whole family could not persuade Qin Zhenzhen, and he was worried about her going alone, so he asked him to protect her.
Yang Gan eventually relented and stopped objecting to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s decision. He even offered his assistance, ¡°Since you are going to the prefectural city and are not familiar with the ce, I know someone who works for the governor.¡±
¡°I will write a letter to him, and when he receives it, he will arrange for your food and amodation.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt relieved and grateful, ¡°Thank you, Uncle!¡±
She eagerly awaited Yang Gan¡¯s letter, having heard from her mother about her brother-inw¡¯s friend in the prefectural city who worked for the governor. With his help, she knew everything would be much smoother and easier for her during her stay.
Early the next morning, Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong decided not to leave with Su Bin and the others. She purposely refrained from informing Su Bin about her n to head to the prefecture.
The journey to the prefecture was just one day¡¯s walk, so Su Bin and the students from the college departed while they had only one meal on the way. The risk of being drugged so early in the journey was unlikely.
Upon arriving at the prefecture, Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong immediately sought out Yang Gan¡¯s acquaintance, Chen Youwei. Chen Youwei quickly emerged from the governmental office. As the strategist of the prefectural office, he was known for his straightforwardness and efficiency.
Chen Youwei chuckled after reading Yang Gan¡¯s letter, which expressed the close bond they shared. ¡°Brother Yang Gan and I have a life-and-death rtionship, and you are his nephews, so you can stay at my home for as long as you want!¡±
Grateful for the offer, Qin Silong and Qin Zhenzhen expressed their thanks. ¡°Thank you, Uncle Chen.¡±
Chen Youwei promptly requested leave from work and apanied Qin Zhenzhen and her brother to his home. There, they were introduced to his wife, Ms. Lin, and their daughter, Chen Shanshan.
¡°Darling wife, they are Brother Yang Gan¡¯s nephews, and they are here in the prefecture. They will be staying with us for a few days,¡± he informed his wife.
Ms.Lin smiled. ¡°Okay, Shanshan isining about not having any sisters to y with her, but here is a beautiful girl to have fun with her.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt a bit embarrassed.
She was getting prettier and prettier, but she could not get slimmer all of a sudden.
Chen Shanshan was 15 years old, and when she saw a stranger, she did not hide in the room like the other girls. Instead, she sized them up generously.
¡°Dad, he should be older than me, but is this the younger or the elder sister?¡±
Chapter 161 - 161: Homemade Seasonings
Chapter 161: Homemade Seasonings
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Chen Youwei chuckled softly. ¡°That¡¯s my brother, Qin Silong, and this lovely girl is my younger sister, Qin Zhenzhen.¡±
¡°Younger sister? Well, then, call me elder sister!¡± Chen Shanshan said with a warm smile.
Upon discovering that Qin Zhenzhen was her long-lost sister, Chen Shanshan felt a surge of excitement and eagerly held Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hands.
In turn, Qin Zhenzhen also liked Chen Shanshan, finding her to be a straightforward and amiable person. As the two girls spent time together, they quickly formed a close bond and even shared a bed at night.
Curious about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s presence in the prefecture with her brother,
Chen Shanshan couldn¡¯t help but inquire, ¡°What brings you here? Can you tell
Qin Zhenzhen frowned slightly as she recalled how her father had admonished her not to reveal any information. However, she decided to share the truth with Chen Shanshan, as she saw no reason to keep it a secret.
¡°Well, my husband is participating in this year¡¯s examination, so we came along to support him. However, he¡¯s residing in the settlement provided by the prefectural school.¡±
Chen Shanshan was taken aback. ¡°Wait, you¡¯re married? And you got married at just 14 years old?¡±
Feeling somewhat embarrassed, Qin Zhenzhen exined that those actions belonged to the previous host¡¯s life and not her own. She admitted that she, personally, would not have chosen to marry even at the age of 24.
Realizing the situation, Chen Shanshan sympathized and offered her advice, ¡°Since your husband is staying in the school¡¯s settlement, there¡¯s not much you can do by following him. Besides, outsiders are not allowed inside, even family members or attendants. Perhaps, it¡¯s best not to follow him there.¡±
It was clear that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s situation was somewhat restricted, and there was little she could do in this scenario, given the rules of the prefectural school¡¯s settlement.
Due to the subpar amenities and overcrowding with at least six people sharing a single room, the residents of the settlement were generally financially constrained.
When asked about her husband¡¯s living situation, Qin Zhenzhen exined, ¡°He is temporarily staying there, but we n to rent a house tomorrow.¡±
Despite having the means to stay in a higher-ss hostel, Su Bin opted for the safety of the settlement provided by the prefectural school. Not only did it offer amodation, but it also provided food, even if the quality was not great. Su Bin decided it was better to eat the basic food at the settlement, consideringst year¡¯s experience of falling sick after eating outside.
The following morning, Qin Zhenzhen woke up early to prepare breakfast. Mrs. Chen had bought meat and vegetables from the street, and together, they kneaded the dough.
¡°Miss. Qin, why don¡¯t you get some more rest?¡± Mrs. Chen suggested.
With a smile, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°I¡¯m used to waking up early, and I¡¯m here to cook. I don¡¯t mean to boast, but I¡¯m a good cook, and I even brought some homemade seasonings.¡±
The night before, Qin Zhenzhen had discussed her intentions with Madame Chen and handed her some money to prepare an extra breakfast for her husband. Chen Youwei had informed his wife about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s husband participating in the examination, and how she was concerned about his food at the settlement.
Mrs. Chen dly encouraged her, ¡°Well then, go ahead and do it. We are all looking forward to a delicious feast!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen skillfully prepared lean meat noodles for everyone, adding her secret ingredient, spirit water, and her special homemade seasonings.
As they savored the delicious noodles, everyone, except for Qin Silong, couldn¡¯t help but stare wide-eyed in amazement. Chen Shanshan was particrly impressed and eagerly grabbed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s arm, asking, ¡°How did you make this? Please tell me what you put in it. I can¡¯t believe it tastes this good!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and revealed, ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to my homemade seasonings.¡±
¡°Your homemade seasonings? You made them yourself, and you have them with you?¡± Chen Shanshan eximed in surprise.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded proudly, ¡°Yes, indeed. I brought three bottles of this seasoning with me. If you all like it, I¡¯d be more than happy to continue providing it in the future..¡±
Chapter 162 - 162: Good-hearted
Chapter 162: Good-hearted
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Chen Shanshan was so happy. ¡°Then will I be able to eat such delicious noodles in the future?¡±
Mrs. Chen smiled. ¡°That depends on who makes it. It is Miss Qin who makes it, so the taste might be worse.¡±
¡°Unless you ask Miss Qin to teach you how to cook.¡±
Chen Shanshan said proudly, ¡°Okay, I will learn how to cook from Sister
Zhenzhen. I promise that I will be able to master it!¡±
¡°Sister Zhenzhen, oh no, Master Zhenzhen, will you ept me as your disciple?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen agreed. ¡°I will teach you if you want to.¡±
As they were talking, Chen Youwei had already finished the bowl of noodles, and he was still not satisfied.
¡°Yes, it is so tasty, just one more bowl would be enough!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen added. ¡°I have one bowl left, I will bring it to Uncle Chen.¡±
Chen Youwei waved his hands with a smile. ¡°You saved the bowl for your husband, how can Uncle Chen eat it?¡±
¡°I don¡¯t think you need to rent another house. You can stay at our ce. Su Bin can move in too. Our house is big and we have many rooms.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen pretended to turn him down. ¡°Of course not!¡±
Chen Youwei chuckled. ¡°Why not? Since you¡¯re staying here for free, consider taking Shanshan as your disciple.¡±
¡°We¡¯ll surely have some amazing meals these days. It¡¯s a win-win situation. We won¡¯t be losing anything; in fact, we might even profit from it,¡± he added.
Qin Zhenzhen agreed with a smile, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll pay for the ingredients then. That way, we can all live here together.¡±
Chen Youwei appreciated Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s straightforwardness and didn¡¯t argue. If she was willing to buy the ingredients, he was happy to contribute as well.
Given the number of people living there and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s exceptional cooking skills, she managed to prepare enough food for everyone.
After breakfast, Qin Silong set out to deliver the noodles to Su Bin. The settlement provided by the prefectural school was conveniently close to Chen Youwei¡¯s home.
Unfortunately, Su Bin had a sleepless night due to the loud noise from the other residents. Even when they were asleep, the constant snoring kept him awake. One individual¡¯s snoring was particrly absurd, sounding even louder than a cksmith¡¯s bellows, and another¡¯s was unusually high-pitched. Thebination of these noises made it difficult for him to get any rest.
Su Bin found it impossible to fall asleep due to the disruptive noises in the room. He inwardly cursed his bad luck for being stuck in the same room with such troublesome individuals.
The next morning. themotion started again with DeoDle washing uD. reading, and chatting, leaving Su Bin with no choice but to rise and prepare for the day. He reluctantly joined the others for breakfast, which consisted of two steamed buns and a bowl of porridge.
While queuing up for food, he overheard someone mentioning his name.
¡°Is that Su Bin from the Qian Vige? Someone is delivering breakfast to him, get it from the door!¡±
Su Bin was startled. Who would give him breakfast?
He couldn¡¯t help but recall the previous incident where he had been tricked into eating something that made him ill just before an important event.
Anxiety filled him, wondering if this was another attempt to sabotage his chances in tomorrow¡¯s examination. However, he dismissed the idea of intentionally poisoning him, as that seemed imusible.
Could it be Qin Zhenzhen? He briefly considered the possibility, but he quickly shook his head. He couldn¡¯t imagine her doing such a thing.
In the end, curiosity got the better of him, and he decided to check it out.
At the door, Su Bin saw Qin Silong. He hesitated for a while but still walked over. He did not take the food basket.
She sounded a little angry too. ¡°I told your sister not to follow you here. What are you doing here?¡±
Furious, Qin Silong put the food basket on the ground.
¡°You can take it or leave it!¡±
¡°You think my sister likes to be given the cold shoulder?¡±
¡°She is just kind-hearted.. She doesn¡¯t want you to fail to be a Cultivated
Talent after studying for so many years!¡±
Chapter 163 - 163: Family
Chapter 163: Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Moreover, your brother and sister earnestly implored my sister to assist you in reaching Cultivated Talent,¡± Qin Zhenzhen continued with a sincere expression.
¡°Especially your Second Brother, he risked his life to save me. After he was stabbed, he thought he might not survive, but he kept pleading with my sister not to abandon you. He insisted that she must stay by your side and help you ovee any misfortunes.¡±
¡°The most important thing he asked of my sister was to apany you to the prefectural city. He believed that my sister possesses a keen eye for recognizing people¡¯s true character and can help you turn misfortune into fortune.¡±
¡°My sister, being kind-hearted, agreed to his earnest request.¡±
¡°We havee here not seeking cold shoulders but to repay their kindness!¡±
¡°After learning about the conditions at the settlement offered by the prefectural school, my sister approached Uncle and sought his help. Consequently, we are now staying at Uncle Chen¡¯s home.¡±
¡°Uncle Chen¡¯s family are all good-hearted people, and he readily agreed to let you stay with us.¡±
¡°His home is located nearby, very close to the examination hall. The environment is excellent, the house is spacious, and there are only a few people, allowing for a peaceful study and good sleep at night.¡±
¡°Uncle Chen holds a prominent position as the strategist of the prefectural magistrate, so his home is undoubtedly one of the safest ces for you to stay.¡±
¡°I have delivered the message. You can think about whether you want to stay at Uncle Chen¡¯s home. I won¡¯t force you,¡± Qin Silong reiterated before he turned and walked away.
Though he didn¡¯t want to involve himself too much in Su Bin¡¯s affairs, he still felt obligated to pass on the message from his family.
Su Bin picked up the food basket from the ground and made his way into the settlement. He chose a table in the canteen where breakfast was served and sat down.
Upon opening the food basket, a mouthwatering aroma of steaming lean meat soup hand-rolled noodles with small green rapeseed filled the air, catching the attention of some nearby students.
¡°Brother, where did you buy that? It looks incredibly delicious! Tell us, we want to buy some too!¡±
¡°It¡¯s truly fragrant. Definitely worth trying!¡±
¡°Just share the location, and we¡¯ll all head there to get some!¡±
The dry steamed buns were nearly inedible, and the rice porridge was equallyckluster, with a stale taste that left much to be desired. Nheless, given that the breakfast was free, the students couldn¡¯t decline the meal.
Despite this, when they saw Su Bin¡¯s bowl of delectable hand-made noodles, their dissatisfaction with the nd breakfast intensified, making it difficult for them to swallow the dry buns.
When asked about the source of his delicious meal, Su Bin replied, ¡°I didn¡¯t buy it. My family made it for me.¡±
However, he chose not to reveal that it was his wife who had prepared it.
The students couldn¡¯t help but feel envious, and their curiosity prompted questions like, ¡°Does your family live in the prefecture?¡±
¡°Why don¡¯t you stay with your rtives if they are here? They surely offer better conditions.¡±
¡°You¡¯re right. Good food and afortable ce to stay are worth more than anything else.¡±
¡°The snoring here is unbearable. I might switch to a better hostel outside, even if it costs a bit more. A good night¡¯s sleep is crucial for my performance in the examination, and it¡¯s a small price to paypared to retaking the exam, which is much more expensive.¡±
Another student chimed in, ¡°Absolutely! Saving money is important, but if it affects our exam results, the losses will be far greater. Staying in a better hostel might cost five or six more liang, but retaking the exam will cost over ten liang.¡±
They were all aware that the examination fee alone amounted to 12 liang.
Hearing their discussion, Su Bin hesitated but eventually made a decision. ¡°I think I¡¯ll move to my rtives¡¯ home soon..¡±
Chapter 164 - 164: The Jiang Family
Chapter 164: The Jiang Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong set off to deliver breakfast to Su Bin, while Chen Youwei prepared to head to work at the governmental office.
Meanwhile, Qin Zhenzhen took out the seasonings she had brought and carefully ced them in a small porcin bottle.
¡°I have three bottles of seasonings here, two for Uncle Chen¡¯s family, and one for the governor,¡± she exined.
Chen Youwei hesitated, understanding what Qin Zhenzhen had in mind. He knew about the attempts to hinder Su Bin from bing a Cultivated Talent, as Yang Gan had revealed everything in the letter. Although he had already agreed to let Su Bin stay at his home, Qin Zhenzhen still seemed concerned.
She reassured him, ¡°Uncle Chen, please don¡¯t misunderstand. I am giving the seasonings to the governor not to bribe him into favoring Su Bin. I know that would be a major taboo, and we should never resort to such means.¡±
¡°In truth, I intend to use the governor¡¯s endorsement to promote these excellent seasonings. My n is to establish a market here in the prefecture and find a store to sell them on behalf of others.¡±
Chen Youwei felt relieved, but he warned Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°The governor hasn¡¯t been in the best moodtely. Although the seasonings are good, I doubt he will be in the mood to help promote them.¡±
¡°If you¡¯re determined to open a market in the prefecture, I can assist you in promoting it, but the impact may not be as significant as you hope.¡±
Curious about the governor¡¯s recent state, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Uncle Chen, what¡¯s troubling him?¡±
Madame Chen exined, ¡°For some unknown reason, the governor¡¯s mother is suffering from severe back pain, making it difficult for her to stand up straight.¡±
¡°Many doctors have been sent to check her condition. Initially, they diagnosed her with bone spurs and treated her ordingly, but she hasn¡¯t shown any signs of improvement,¡± Madame Chen continued.
¡°It¡¯s been three months, and she¡¯s in pain every day. Despite taking medication regrly, her condition hasn¡¯t improved. When I visited her recently, she had lost a lot of weight. I heard her say that she doesn¡¯t want to live anymore¡¡¯
But Qin Zhenzhen was thinking that Old Lady¡¯s condition should be diagnosed with a protruding disc.
But there was another possibility that was the opposite ¨C the waist te was dented.
Generally speaking, the lumbar disc was more serious than the dent, but if the lumbar disc was dented and pressed on the nerves, it was also a very serious problem.
So many doctors failed to cure her, which meant that her symptoms were veryplicated and she could not make any guesses.
It would be best if they could check it out personally.
Qin Zhenzhen said to Chen Youwei. ¡°Uncle Chen, I have a secret recipe for bone spurs. I wonder if it can help Old Lady.¡±
Chen Youwei looked at Qin Zhenzhen in disbelief. ¡°For real?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen eximed, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s true! My grandma taught me the secret recipe. You may not know this, but she hails from the prestigious Jiang Family in the capital.¡±
¡°Though sheter married into the countryside due to her impaired vision, she was once renowned for her exceptional medical expertise, particrly her unique method for treating bone spurs.¡±
The Jiang Family¡¯s legacy was extensively documented in the original book. Historically, the women excelled in food therapy and cooking, while the men were renowned for their medical prowess, specializing in orthopedic physiotherapy and injury recovery. The family¡¯s medical lineage had flourished for centuries.
With determination, Qin Zhenzhen resolved not to hide her grandmother¡¯s prestigious background any longer. She saw this as an opportunity to showcase her own medical skills, inherited from her grandmother.
Chen Youwei couldn¡¯t contain his surprise. ¡°Your grandma is genuinely from the Jiang Family in the capital? And she truly taught you these remarkable skills?¡±
Coming from a humble background, Chen Youwei had heard tales of the renowned Jiang Family in the capital..
Chapter 165 - 165: My Life
Chapter 165: My Life
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen nodded earnestly. ¡°I cannot deceive you, Uncle Chen. Pretending ignorance won¡¯t do me any good.¡±
Mrs. Chen gently tugged at Chen Youwei¡¯s sleeves, offering her support. ¡°I believe Miss Qin. She has no reason to lie. If shecked confidence, she wouldn¡¯t have asked for this opportunity to prove herself.¡±
Encouraged by Mrs. Chen¡¯s words, Chen Youwei made a daring decision. ¡°Alright, I will take you to the governor¡¯s mansion, and I hope you can assist her.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen reaffirmed hermitment. ¡°I will carefully examine her condition. If I¡¯m not certain about my ability to help, I won¡¯t proceed with the treatment.¡±
Chen Youwei guided Qin Zhenzhen to the governmental office, where they needed the governor¡¯s approval to treat Old Lady.
Waiting in the backyard of the governmental office, Qin Zhenzhen prepared herself for the task ahead.
Chen Youwei inquired about Old Lady¡¯s illness from Officer Wang, who expressed his distress. ¡°Her condition isn¡¯t improving, and it pains me to see my mother suffer every day. I intend to send for someone from the renowned Jiang Family in the capital.¡¯
¡°But the round trip alone will take at least half a month, and the consultation and other expenses will amount to thousands of liang.¡±
¡°Also, I wonder if we can get the Jiang Family here.¡±
Seeing an opportunity, Chen Youwei took the chance to rmend Qin Zhenzhen to Officer Wang.
¡°Officer Wang, what a fortunate coincidence. I happen to know someone whose niece ims her grandmother is from the prestigious Jiang Family in the capital, and she has inherited their renowned teachings. Perhaps you could have her take a look at Old Lady¡¯s condition first?¡±
Officer Wang¡¯s eyes lit up with hope. ¡°Is that true?¡±
Chen Youwei nodded earnestly. ¡°That¡¯s what she told me. Although I haven¡¯t personally verified it, I don¡¯t believe she would dare to lie about something so significant.¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen was well aware of the gravity of this consultation, as it involved the governor¡¯s mother. She knew that any misstep on her part could lead to severe consequences.
That was why Chen Youwei decided to bring her here.
The governor thought so too. Before they met, he believed 60% of what he said.
¡°Where is she now?¡±
¡°I have brought her here.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen answered Officer Wang¡¯s questions calmly. ¡°Miss Qin, is your grandma really from the Jiang Family?¡±
¡°Yes, I swear on my life that it is true.¡±
¡°I heard that women from the Jiang Family are good at food therapy and
cooking, and they only pass on medical skills to men.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen exined patiently.
¡°In truth, to understand the art ofbining food and therapy, one must first acquire medical skills. This means that both men and women of the Jiang Family possess profound medical knowledge.¡±
¡°Numerous women in the family are incredibly versatile, and my grandmother is no exception. However, due to her vision impairment, she married into the countryside. ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen feltpelled to provide aprehensive exnation.
¡°The reason why a woman from the Jiang Family cannot openly demonstrate her talent in physiotherapy is because societal norms impose certain restrictions on her identity.¡±
In ancient feudal society, strict customs prohibited women from touching the bodies of foreign men.
Officer Wang was highly impressed by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s response. He admired herposure, considering her young age and gender, and believed her to be moreposed than some older men he knew.
With his mind made up, Officer Wang dered, ¡°Then, please apany me back to the mansion, Miss Qin.¡±
Upon reaching Officer Wang¡¯s mansion, a strong medicinal scent filled the air. The ancient people employed various methods to treat lumbar disc issues, including the application of numerous medicines, acupuncture, and the consumption of medicinal juices.
Qin Zhenzhen could perceive the pungent aroma of medicinesmonly used to counter inmmation and pain. However, she was aware that prolonged use of such potent remedies could pose significant risks to the human body, especially for an elderly person who might not tolerate it well..
Chapter 166 - 166: Young People
Chapter 166: Young People
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Officer Wang took Qin Zhenzhen to Old Lady¡¯s room.
Before they reached the door, they saw a middle-aged doctoring out of the room awkwardly.
Madame Wang came out and apologized to him. ¡°Doctor Li, my mother-inw is in so much pain that she said such angry words. I apologize on behalf of my mother-inw¡¡¯
Apparently, Doctor Li had been driven out by Old Lady and she refused to be treated.
As they walked closer, they could hear Old Lady groaning in pain.
Madame Wang exined the situation to Officer Wang, ¡°Old Master, mom doesn¡¯t want Doctor Li to treat her¡ what should we do?¡±
¡°I will go in and take a look,¡± Officer Wang replied, his heart aching. He lifted the curtain and hurried in.
¡°Mom, is it still very painful today?¡± he asked with concern.
Old Lady leaned forward and said weakly, ¡°It hurts¡¡±
Due to prolonged use of medication, she had developed an allergic reaction. Her skin was covered in blisters that had burst, leaving the surface red, swollen, and some wounds even rotting.
¡°I have a female doctor here today¡¡¯
Before Officer Wang could finish his words, he was interrupted by Old Lady. ¡°Son, if you care about me¡ then don¡¯t find any doctor to treat me, it will only hurt more and more¡¡¯
¡°Unless someone from the Jiang Family from the capital is here, no other doctors should bother me¡¡±
Officer Wang told Old Lady, ¡°Miss Qin is the sessor of the Jiang Family in the capital!¡±
Old Lady was not convinced. ¡°Son, don¡¯t lie to me¡¡¯
Officer Wang swore. ¡°If I dare lie to you, I will¡¡±
Old Lady stopped him. ¡°Enough, you made the oath! Let her in and check up on me!¡±
But when she saw Qin Zhenzhen, Old Lady was very disappointed. She was just a 14 or 15-year-old girl, and even if she was the sessor of the Jiang Family, she couldn¡¯t possibly be that skilled at healing, right?
¡°Son, I am tired and want to take a nap. When I wake up, she cane and check on me¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen consoled Old Lady when she saw that she was not in a good mood.
¡°Old Lady, you need to be cured so you can recover.¡±
¡°Also, as a doctor who can cure diseases, age doesn¡¯t necessarily determine
capability!¡±
¡°You can¡¯t measure the sea, and you can¡¯t judge a book by its cover.¡±
Old Lady turned to her. ¡°You mean you can cure my waist?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen said calmly, ¡°I haven¡¯t checked it yet, and I can¡¯t make a conclusion. If you don¡¯t even want to give me a chance to check, then I will respect your choice.¡±
Having said that, Qin Zhenzhen looked at Old Lady quietly.
Old Lady was silent for a long while before agreeing. ¡°Then I will allow you to check, but be gentle.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry, Old Lady, I won¡¯t hurt you.¡±
She had the spirit water to stop the bleeding and heal the wound, so there was no reason for it to hurt her.
Officer Wang left, leaving Madame Wang and one elderly woman to serve in the room.
Qin Zhenzhen carefully lifted Old Lady¡¯s clothes, revealing her red and swollen waist.
¡°Please prepare clean cotton cloth and a basin of boiled water,¡± she requested.
Those two things were readily avable in the mansion and were quickly brought in.
Qin Zhenzhen began by dripping the spiritual water on Old Lady¡¯s wound, followed by adding the medicinal powder to the hot water.
¡°This powder has a pain-relief effect and will help ease the pain from the wound,¡± she exined.
She soaked a clean cotton cloth in the water and gently wrung it out before carefully dabbing away the yellow fluid from the wound.
After a few repetitions, Qin Zhenzhen applied some more powder to the injured area..
Chapter 167 - 167: Indentation
Chapter 167: Indentation
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Madame Wang had been worried that Qin Zhenzhen would inadvertently hurt Old Lady, who could easily be angry and lose control. During such moments, she would throw whatever was within reach, once even hitting a maid and causing her injury.
But as the treatment continued, Madame Wang noticed that her worries were unfounded. Surprisingly, her mother-inw remained quiteposed.
Old Lady had anticipated that the treatment might be painful, but she was determined to endure it. However, to her surprise, the process felt somewhatforting, as the pain gradually subsided.
Not only did the pain on the surface of the skin lessen, but even the deep-seated pain in her bones became less noticeable.
¡°Miss Qin, what medicine did you give me?¡± Old Lady inquired.
Qin Zhenzhen exined, ¡°I administered an anti-inmmatory and pain-relieving powder, but please be aware that its pain-relieving effect has a time limit.¡±
In response, Old Lady eagerly requested, ¡°Give me arge bag of this powder; the price is not an issue.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled warmly. ¡°When your waist fully recovers, you won¡¯t need these powders anymore.¡±
Excitedly, Old Lady asked, ¡°Can you also cure my back pain?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded confidently. ¡°I have examined you, and you are a rare case, but with your cooperation, I can guarantee a cure.¡±
Old Lady¡¯s joy knew no bounds. ¡°I haveplete faith in your abilities! I will definitely cooperate wholeheartedly with your treatment!¡±
Chen Youwei, who had been waiting outside the door, let out a sigh of relief. He now knew that Qin Zhenzhen had been truthful all along.
Officer Wang¡¯s happiness knew no bounds. Tears welled up in his eyes as he couldn¡¯t contain his emotions.
Doctor Li, who had been present, decided not to leave either. As one of the more renowned doctors in the prefecture, he felt humiliated after being driven out by Old Lady, and now he saw that Qin Zhenzhen was indeed skilled in her craft.
He had initially contemted leaving, but upon learning that Qin Zhenzhen was the sessor of the Jiang Family in the capital, he decided to stay and observe.
His initial skepticism was directed towards this teenage girl¡¯s ability to cure a disease that had stumped many doctors.
However, much to his surprise, Old Lady did not even cry out in pain during the treatment, and Qin Zhenzhen confidently guaranteed aplete cure.
Madame Wang, who was also present in the room, couldn¡¯t contain her excitement and curiosity. She eagerly inquired, ¡°Miss Qin, could you enlighten us on why my mother-inw¡¯s illness is so rare?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen proceeded to exin the symptoms in detail, highlighting the protruding lumbar disc and the concave lumbar disc.
The protrusion of the lumbar disc wouldpress the nerves, making it difficult for the patient to walk upright. On the other hand, the concave lumbar disc would also exert pressure on the nerves, but the treatment approach for each condition was entirely different.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words were clearly audible to everyone outside the room.
Doctor Li suddenly had an epiphany, understanding what was truly happening.
So that was how it was.
The Jiang Family in the capital should not be underestimated.
¡°The most important thing for this disease is to use a few massage methods to slowly recover.¡±
Old Lady was not anxious any more. But she could not help but ask. ¡°How long will it take to recover?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°I am not sure yet. It depends on the effect after each massage.¡±
¡°I will give you the first rehabilitation massage right now.¡±
It was very quiet in the room. About one hourter, Qin Zhenzhen finished the massage.
Old Lady could sit on the bed, but her waist was no longer hurting.
Officer Wang entered the room with a joyful expression, intentionally asking
Old Lady, ¡°Mom, how is Miss Qin doing?¡±
Old Lady responded with delight, ¡°She¡¯s doing a fantastic job!¡±
Then she added, ¡°Let me tell you, you mustpensate Miss Qin ording to the standards of the Jiang Family in the capital. Furthermore, I am feeling exceptionally happy today, and I have a special gift for Miss Qin..¡±
Chapter 168 - 168: Boundless Money
Chapter 168: Boundless Money
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen walked out of Officer Wang¡¯s mansion in a cheerful mood.
Old Lady insisted on giving her a jade bracelet, and Uncle Chen mentioned that it was worth at least 100 liang, which roughly amounted to 30,000 yuan in modern times.
It was incredibly generous of the wealthy Old Lady!
Officer Wang had already paid her 200 liang in advance, and the entire family was immensely grateful to her, as Old Lady could finally have a good night¡¯s sleep.
Qin Zhenzhen took the opportunity to give Madame Wang a bottle of her special seasonings. She couldn¡¯t help but imagine the reactions of Officer Wang and his family after tasting the seasonings.
This visit to the prefecture had brought her a significant amount of money!
As Qin Zhenzhen handed the money to Uncle Chen, she said, ¡°Thank you for your trust, Uncle Chen, and for rmending me to Officer Wang. I have gained a lot today, and you must ept this 100 liang as my gratitude!¡±
Uncle Chen hesitated, not wanting to ept the money. He had initially hoped that Qin Zhenzhen would take his daughter as her disciple.
When his daughter mentioned wanting to be Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s disciple, he didn¡¯t think much of it. But now that he knew she was a descendant of the Jiang
Family and witnessed her incredible capabilities, he was filled with excitement.
Uncle Chen had been worried that Qin Zhenzhen might change her mind about staying at his ce, so he initially refused to ept the money.
¡°The three of us are staying with you, and we understand that it may be burdensome. We have daily expenses too,¡± he exined. ¡°If you don¡¯t take the money, we won¡¯t be able to continue staying here.¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen insisted, and in the end, Chen Youwei reluctantly epted 50 liang. He knew that if Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t stay, his daughter¡¯s dream of bing her disciple might be shattered.
But he also had a suspicion about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s intentions. ¡°Zhenzhen, you want to get closer to Officer Wang. Is selling seasonings your only motive?¡± he asked.
Qin Zhenzhen answered honestly, ¡°I am telling you the truth, Uncle Chen. Su Bin has enemies who are not to be underestimated. They have been thwarting his examination attempts sincest year.¡±
¡°This year, during the county examination, they almost harmed Su Bin again.
These people are even more ruthless than before, and they want to block Su
Bin¡¯s path to bing a schr.¡±
¡°I sessfully resolved the crisisst time, but they haven¡¯t given up yet.¡±
¡°If Su Bin stays at your ce and avoids going out, he should be able to make it to the examination with my Fourth Brother¡¯s assistance.¡±
¡°What worries me is that after he bes a Cultivated Talent, he will relocate to the province next year to be an Advanced Schr.¡±
Hearing that, Chen Youwei¡¯s previous guess was confirmed.
¡°So, you want Officer Wang to defend Su Bin and contact the magistrate through him?¡±
The province¡¯s officer was Officer Wang¡¯s brother-inw.
If Madame knew that Qin Zhenzhen cured her mother¡¯s waist and saved her life, she would definitely agree to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s small request.
Defending Su Bin would be straightforward. If he moved into the mansion or the governmental office, those people wouldn¡¯t be able to harm him.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±
Chen Youwei sighed emotionally. ¡°You¡¯ve gone to great lengths to help Su Bin. I hope he¡¯ll appreciate it.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt a bit embarrassed.
She suspected that her uncle must have mentioned to Uncle Chen in the letter that Su Bin did not like her. So, Uncle Chen was trying to caution her against helping an ungrateful person.
She decided to act as if she had no knowledge of this.
She had a backup n in case the officer refused to help.
But one thing puzzled Chen Youwei.. ¡°If you are a descendant of the Jiang
Family, why not seek their protection for Su Bin? The Jiang Family holds more power than the Officer!¡±
Chapter 169 - 169: Reward
Chapter 169: Reward
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen bravely spoke the truth. ¡°Uncle Chen, my grandma suffered persecution at the hands of the Jiang Family, which led to her losing her sight and marrying in the countryside. I won¡¯t seek help from the Jiang Family.¡± ¡°I understand,¡± replied Chen Youwei.
With years of experience in the governmental office, Chen Youwei sensed that Qin Zhenzhen was holding something back, but he decided to assist her.
Upon returning to the Chen Family, Qin Silong was apanied by Su Bin.
Su Bin respectfully bowed to Chen Youwei. ¡°Thank you for epting me into your home, Uncle Chen.¡±
Chen Youwei sized up Su Bin and admired him silently. He was a handsome and talented young man, who had secured the top rank in the county examination for two consecutive years.
No wonder Qin Zhenzhen was willing to support him.
However, young people could sometimese off as arrogant.
Chen Youwei added, ¡°Actually, you should thank your wife.¡±
Su Bin understood the implication but responded calmly, ¡°I am aware.¡±
Even though Qin Zhenzhen was helping him, Su Bin was not an unfeeling person. If she truly wanted a divorce, he would consider letting her go.
Chen Youwei didn¡¯t press the matter further. Making things too explicit might cause embarrassment for Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin.
Su Bin was assigned to stay at the side yard of the Chen Family during his visit. He spent the entire day engrossed in reading and didn¡¯t venture anywhere else.
Their time at the Chen Family was enjoyable, with good food and restful sleep. The next morning, Su Bin woke up feeling refreshed and energized.
Qin Zhenzhen and Mrs. Chen were early risers, but Chen Shanshan, in her effort to learn cooking, sacrificed her usual morning lie-in and joined them a littleter. Together, they prepared hand-rolled noodles and paired them with delicious lean meat and rapeseed. The resulting meal looked, smelled, and tasted delightful. Each of them had a big bowl, and the food was truly appetizing.
Su Bin didn¡¯t want to appear pretentious, so he finished his bowl of noodles without any fuss. He was feeling excited about the uing examination.
He hoped everything would go smoothly this time.
The prefectural examination consisted of three consecutive parts. The first and second exams would take only one day, and the candidates were responsible for bringing their own lunch. The second examination would span two consecutive days, during which they would eat, rest, and remain within the examination hall throughout the period.
Therefore, the examination not only tested literary talent but also physical endurance.
Throughout history, many students didn¡¯t fail due to their performance on the examination paper, but rather because they couldn¡¯t endure the rigorous conditions.
Qin Zhenzhen had thoughtfully prepared lunch for Su Bin, making spring onion egg noodle cake.
Inside the examination hall, candidates underwent thorough searches. They were prohibited from wearingyered clothes, and even their food was scrutinized.
If they were given steamed buns for lunch, they had to crush them entirely and carefully inspect each grain of rice. Only egg pancakes, as thin as paper, could be epted without crushing.
Qin Zhenzhen made sure to spread the tbread thinly, understanding that she would lose her appetite after it was crushed.
As Su Bin checked the pancakes in the basket, he whispered, ¡°Thank you,¡± to Qin Zhenzhen.
A faint smile curved on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s lips, as if she were observing a once-cold-hearted young man who was now warming up.
Her efforts towards Su Bin were finally paying off.
Even though Su Bin had previously harbored intense animosity towards her, wishing for her suffering, he no longer hated her.
He hade to appreciate her sincerely.
In the past, Su Bin was known for his cold and aloof demeanor. He rarely spoke to anyone outside his immediate family and refused any assistance or charity from others. However, now he found himself able to ept Uncle Chen¡¯s help without resistance, indicating that he was not inherently destined to be so extreme.
This revtion suggested that his character was not fixed, and there was room for positive transformation.
As Qin Zhenzhen pondered on this, an idea struck her.. What if she could change the viin in the book into a virtuous person? Would that act of redemption be a great aplishment?
Chapter 170 - 170: Examination
Chapter 170: Examination
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong, apanied by Su Bin, made their way to the examination hall, where Chen Youwei thoughtfully arranged for two guards to apany them.
Despite feeling that the borate arrangement was unnecessary, Su Bin chose not to voice his opinion, cautious of potential unforeseen circumstances.
Exiting the Chen Family premises, they strolled through a narrow alley. However, Qin Zhenzhen sensed they were being observed, a feeling shared by Su Bin and Qin Silong.
Seeing the situation, Qin Silong held onto an iron rod, preparing to face any potential threat.
Even Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of unease; those people were truly bothersome!
In a confident tone, Qin Zhenzhen proimed, ¡°We are unaware of who you are or what grievances you hold against Su Bin. Nevertheless, rest assured, we will stand by him no matter what!¡±
¡°We can let this matter slide if you choose to release it, but should you persist, we¡¯ll see who ends up regretting it!¡±
The two guards tightened their grip on their long sticks, ready to defend their group if needed.
¡°How dare you sneak up on the examination candidates! Your actions are utterly foolish!¡± Qin Zhenzhen scolded the unseen troublemakers.
After a while, it seemed that those people had departed. Qin Silong suggested,
¡°Let¡¯s go, we don¡¯t want to bete.¡±
The examination hall was conveniently close, and they would reach it soon. Su Bin felt relieved, knowing they would be safe within its confines.
However, a sense of difort lingered within him. It was just an examination, yet those individuals seemed fixated on him. Would he even stand a chance to make it to the imperial hall examination?
ncing at Qin Zhenzhen, he wondered if she would protect and support him throughout this journey to the top of the list.
As they arrived at the examination hall, Su Bin noticed the couplets adorning its entrance: ¡°The roc will soar 90,000 miles with the wind.¡±
Gathering his resolve, he decided to cast away all the negative emotions and give his all during the examination.
With everyone rising early, having breakfast, and gathering at the entrance of the examination hall.
The entrance of the examination hall grew increasingly crowded, with examinees disying various expressions on their faces.
Some appeared valiant, as if marching into a battlefield.
Others trembled nervously, as if facing an execution ground.
Amidst them, Su Bin remained remarkablyposed.
As the doors to the examination hall swung open, the presence of nearly 100 guards stationed everywhere became apparent.
Turning to Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen advised, ¡°You can join the queue.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Su Bin responded, averting his gaze slightly.
Qin Zhenzhen added reassuringly, ¡°Wait for us at the door after the examination. Fourth Brother and I will apany you home.¡±
¡°Okay!¡±
With the food basket in hand, Su Bin entered the examination hall and queued up for the search.
He felt at ease, knowing they would be safe within these walls.
Causing trouble in the examination hall would surely enrage the emperor, a risk no one would dare to take.
The Dafeng Dynasty ced significant emphasis on governance through literature, evident from the regrity of imperial examinations held every three years. These exams produced numerous sessful candidates who went on to be imperial officers.
Over time, the hierarchical system gradually faded away, underscoring the emperor¡¯s profound regard for the examination process.
Qin Silong and Qin Zhenzhen remained until they witnessed Su Bin¡¯s safe entry into the examination hall, sessfully passing the body search.
Subsequently, Qin Zhenzhen and her Fourth Brother paid a visit to Officer Wang¡¯s mansion.
A warm smile greeted them as Madame Wang said, ¡°Good morning, Miss Qin!¡±
Returning the greeting, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°Good morning, Madame Wang.¡±
High praise was offered by Madame Wang as she led Qin Zhenzhen to Old Lady¡¯s room.
¡°Miss Qin, you are truly capable. Old Lady had a restful night, and she is now awake and full of energy. She can even manage some light walking in the courtyard.¡±
¡°As long as she avoids any strenuous movements, her waist won¡¯t trouble her.¡±
¡°Moreover, the seasonings you provided were simply marvelous. The dishes we hadst night were incredibly delicious!¡±
¡°I also used some of those seasonings in the porridge I prepared for Old Lady this morning. She even jokingly said it tasted better than godly porridge!¡±
¡°Old Lady has quite the sense of humor,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied with a smile, fully anticipating such a response..
Chapter 171 - 171: Picking up Su Bin
Chapter 171: Picking up Su Bin
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Madame Wang inquired once more, ¡°I heard that you want to sell your seasonings in the prefecture?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded affirmatively, saying, ¡°Yes, I¡¯d like to start by coborating with a restaurant and gradually expand from there.¡±
Seizing the opportunity, Madame Wang suggested, ¡°As luck would have it, our family owns a restaurant in the prefecture. How about considering us first?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled gratefully, replying, ¡°No problem at all.¡± This was precisely what she had been hoping for.
Prior to arriving in the prefecture, Qin Zhenzhen had consulted her brother-inw about the Governor, who owned a restaurant, hoping to promote her seasonings there.
To her delight, everything went smoothly.
As she left Officer Wang¡¯s mansion, Qin Zhenzhen found herself with numerous sesses.
Old Lady gifted her with another precious piece of jewelry, which made her feel too embarrassed to ept any additional payment.
Madame Wang promptly contacted the restaurant manager and they signed a contract, with a deposit of 200 liang.
With these developments, Qin Zhenzhen was now a wealthy woman.
She had already nned to purchase a house in the prefecture, where she intended to establish her seasonings and soy sauce workshop. The decision was fueled by the convenience of transportation in the areapared to Datong Town, as well as the lower cost of living andbor in the prefecture.
Another significant factor was her excellent rtionship with Officer Wang¡¯s family, making future endeavors much easier with their support.
Back at the Chen Family, Chen Shanshan eagerly awaited Qin Zhenzhen, who had officially epted her as a disciple. The lessons were not limited to cooking alone; medical skills were also on the agenda. Fortunately, Chen Shanshan could read, making the teaching process smoother.
The initial phase proved challenging as Qin Zhenzhen began instructing them on ingredient preparation and pairing. Qin Silong observed from the sidelines, feeling puzzled. He sensed that his sister was concealing some secrets from him.
Logically, both culinary and medical expertise required extensive practice rather than mere observation. However, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s actions disyed remarkable skill and precision.
Time flew, and evening arrived, signaling the time to fetch Su Bin. Chen Shanshan offered, ¡°Master, I¡¯ll apany you to bring Grandmaster home. If the need arises, I can also provide assistance in a fight.¡±
Embarrassment washed over Qin Zhenzhen at the thought, as she knew how Su Bin might react to such an offer. The idea left her with a headache.
¡°You cane along, but avoid addressing him as Grandmaster. Schrs are often modest, and he might not appreciate it.¡±
Chen Shanshan nodded in understanding, blinking, ¡°I got it, Master. I will address him as Young Master Su.¡±
The three of them proceeded to the entrance of the examination hall, where numerous families were already waiting to fetch the candidates.
In an ordinary county, there would be around 100 candidates, whilerger ones might have about 150. Considering that one prefecture governed seven or eight counties, there were more than 1,000 students participating in the examination.
Although some families from distant ces couldn¡¯t make it, many local ones were present. A few family members anxiously waited at the door all day, fearing their children might encounter difficulties during the examination.
After a while, the door of the examination hall was opened, and the candidates came out one by one. They all had different expressions on their faces.
Some candidates appeared dejected, others exuded confidence, and a few disyed signs of anxiety.
Several familiar candidates huddled together, discussing andparing their answers.
Recalling her past college entrance examination, Qin Zhenzhen remembered the strict rule where candidates had to remain in the resting area even after submitting their papers until the allotted time psed.
As candidates began emerging from the examination hall, families eagerly scanned their faces, hoping to catch a glimpse of their children. However, not finding them among the first toe out, they continued to wait, growing more anxious by the minute..
Chapter 172 - 172: Trouble
Chapter 172: Trouble
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Soon, Qin Zhenzhen spotted Su Bin among the candidatesing out.
Su Bin appearedposed and unruffled.
Chen Shanshan whispered to Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Master, he must have done well. Look at how calm he is.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled in agreement. ¡°I believe so too.¡±
Her faith in Su Bin¡¯s abilities was unwavering. In the original book, he had been portrayed as a top student.
Su Bin also noticed Qin Zhenzhen and the others.
Perhaps Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s earlier warning to the people from the Duke Mansion had deterred them, as nothing untoward happened during their journey back to the Chen Family.
For the second examination, they encountered no troubles on their way back and forth.
Unbeknownst to Qin Zhenzhen, they were being covertly watched.
The same was true for the third examination.
Although Qin Zhenzhen assumed that those people might have given up due to their continuouspany of two guards, she couldn¡¯t dismiss the possibility that they might still attempt to harm Su Bin during the examination.
After three consecutive examinations, Su Bin finally felt the weight lifted off his shoulders, and he indulged in a full day of rxation and much-needed rest.
It wasn¡¯t until the third day after the examination that he discovered an intriguing fact about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s family background. Her grandmother hailed from the prestigious Jiang Family in the capital, and it was from her that Qin Zhenzhen had learned her remarkable abilities. Su Bin was astounded to learn that Qin Zhenzhen had even cured the Governor¡¯s mother¡¯s lumbago, earning her immense gratitude from the Governor¡¯s family. As a result, they had entered into a long-term contract with Qin Zhenzhen for the supply of her seasonings.
The generous consultation fees and contract deposit Qin Zhenzhen received were substantial enough for her to purchase a house andnd in the prefecture. Moreover, she had now taken Chen Shanshan as her disciple, and Mrs. Chen was actively assisting her in finding a suitable property.
Upon learning all of this, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but feel a tinge of disappointment. He realized that he was no match for Qin Zhenzhen in terms of family background. She came from a much more distinguished family, with the Jiang Family being highly esteemed in the capital.
She was capable, and making money seemed effortless for her. Meanwhile, he struggled with poverty, and his brother and sister even had difficulty providing for themselves.
While she was grateful to the governor for his support, he, on the other hand, seemed to have an unidentified enemy who had thwarted his chances of bing a Cultivated Talent. The future was uncertain, and they had no idea whaty ahead.
No wonder Qin Zhenzhen had decided to divorce him after feeling ignored. She was a woman who knew her own heart and was unafraid to love or hate.
To obtain the divorce papers, Qin Zhenzhen treated his brother and sister kindly and even offered them a way to prosperity. She went above and beyond, saving his sister and defending him.
With such actions, he would be a fool not to agree to the divorce.
With these thoughts in mind, Su Bin approached Qin Zhenzhen for a private conversation.
He began, ¡°Thank you for all your help during this time.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°No need to thank me. You know I have my own purpose.¡±
After a brief pause, Su Bin continued, ¡°If you truly want a divorce, I will draft it for you tonight.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°Have you really thought it through?¡±
Su Bin felt a little awkward. ¡°Youe from a more privileged family, and you¡¯re capable too. I can¡¯tpete with you on those fronts.¡±
¡°Oh, is that so?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen held back herughter. Su Bin was very proud. He did not want others to think that he was living off a woman.
Getting serious, she asked for his help, ¡°But I¡¯ve encountered a problem, and I need your assistance. Will you help me?¡±
Without hesitation, Su Bin responded, ¡°Of course! Whatever it is, if I can help, I will.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen looked at him and said, ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡±
But Su Bin assured her, ¡°That¡¯s alright. Whenever you have time, I¡¯ll listen.¡±
She then briefly recounted her grandmother¡¯s story, exining, ¡°Since I learned from my grandma, I don¡¯t have to hide anything.¡±
However, she revealed the main concern, saying, ¡°My grandma holds a grudge against the Jiang Family for causing her blindness. She doesn¡¯t want me to have any association with them. If they discover my abilities, they might send someone to take me back to the capital to serve them.¡±
¡°My grandma strictly advised me not to reveal my capabilities..¡±
Chapter 173 - 173: Not Into the Palace
Chapter 173: Not Into the Pce
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¡°Then I bumped into you in town, and the idea of marrying you crossed my mind. I believed that being born into a good family made me a suitable match for you,¡± Qin Zhenzhen confessed.
¡°My grandma also agreed with the idea. She felt I should marry an ordinary man and lead a stable life, rather than risking everything for wealth and fame,¡± she added.
¡°If you hadn¡¯t agreed, I would have given up. However, circumstances forced you to marry me because my brother was concerned about my reputation,¡± she continued.
Upon hearing this, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but turn his gaze towards Qin
Zhenzhen.
His fifth brother and sixth sister had previously mentioned that Qin Zhenzhen pushed him because his aunt had pushed her from behind. At the time, he didn¡¯t believe it, but now he found himself reconsidering.
Qin Zhenzhen noticed his scrutinizing look, and it made her ufortable. She was distorting the truth, but her intention was to dissipate Su Bin¡¯s animosity towards her.
Seemingly convinced by her exnation, Su Bin urged her to continue, and she obliged.
¡°I was only daydreaming, thinking I could develop feelings for you, but I was mistaken. Forced affection never yields sweetness,¡± she admitted candidly.
¡°Especially when I witnessed you and your brothers constantly quarreling and how you despised me, I realized that I should divorce you,¡± she continued. Su Bin¡¯s eyes shifted as he recalled his past desire for revenge against Qin Zhenzhen. He had even contemted harming her, but now he understood that she had been aware of it all along and had wisely kept that knowledge hidden.
Whatever she did afterward could be seen as her way of making amends.
Seeing the impact of her words, Qin Zhenzhen continued her narrative, ¡°But you didn¡¯t agree. Perhaps you thought that if you became a Cultivated Talent, my brothers would take their anger out on you, and that would be your path to sess. It was then that I decided to wait until you became a Cultivated Talent before discussing divorce.¡±
¡°In the meantime, I¡¯ll ensure your brother and sister don¡¯t go hungry, so you don¡¯t have to worry about anything affecting your journey to be a Cultivated Talent. When you¡¯re in a good mood, getting the divorce paper will be easier.¡±
¡°But I never expected that after making this decision, I ended up exposing myself and getting into trouble,¡± she continued, pausing.
Intrigued, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°What kind of trouble?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen let out a sigh, ¡°My grandma kept something from me. It was only when someone from the Jiang Family approached her in the capital that she revealed a secret.¡±
She then proceeded to tell Su Bin about the special constitution of the Jiang Family and how they amassed their fortune.
¡°I have the unique physique passed down through generations in the Jiang Family. Any woman possessing this special constitution will be sent to the pce as a concubine,¡± she exined.
¡°My grandma doesn¡¯t want me to enter the pce. She believes that due to my innocence, I may not live for more than two or three years if I reveal my abilities. So she encourages me to eat and drink, hoping I¡¯ll gain weight and be safer,¡± Qin Zhenzhen revealed.
¡°It wasn¡¯t until I got married that you felt reassured. I was making money through my own skills, and you stopped objecting to that,¡± she added.
¡°However, to my surprise, the Jiang Family still came after me. They imed that although we were married, we were not sharing a room, and I was still a virgin.¡±
¡°They intended to take me back to the Jiang Family, where I could lose weight and be more beautiful. They even nned to give me a new identity, allowing you to send me to the pce to serve the Emperor, so the Jiang Family could benefit from it,¡± she continued.
¡°But I don¡¯t want to go into the pce..¡±
Chapter 174 - 174: Heartache
Chapter 174: Heartache
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¡± SO¡
Qin Zhenzhen saw that Su Bin was looking at her, so she stopped and felt a bit anxious.
He was not going to be easily manipted. Also, he was a crazy viin.
But she had not expected that Su Bin would ask, ¡°So what? You want to share the room with me before we divorce?¡±
That was what he really thought ¨C he did not think that she would need to go into the pce after she lost her virginity.
He was thinking about whether he should say yes or no.
Qin Zhenzhen got so annoyed that she wanted to p right on his face for saying so.
He was a schr!
He was only 16 years old and he already wanted to sleep with a woman!
He must have misinterpreted her intention!
¡°What are you thinking?¡±
Are you dreaming?
¡°I just want to talk with you about whether we can stay together for the time being. Also, we can pretend to be in love in front of others, so everyone will think that we are sharing a room as a couple!¡±
¡°I have made up my mind. I am not going to hide my skills any more. I am going to appear in public so everyone knows me. In this way, the Jiang Family will never send me into the pce again!¡±
So that was what was going on. Su Bin could not help but want tough when he saw how furious Qin Zhenzhen was.
At this moment, he felt lucky that he could not divorce Qin Zhenzhen for the time being.
Qin Zhenzhen said that she did not want to go into the pce, which made Su Bin look at her differently.
It turned out that she wasn¡¯t the superficial woman he initially assumed her to be, seeking a luxurious life. Her decision to marry him wasn¡¯t driven by a desire for wealth through her husband.
Instead, she wanted to give their rtionship a genuine chance to thrive and grow in the long term.
As their connection deepened, he realized he had fallen for her, and he was determined not to let her slip away, especially since she was the one who initiated their rtionship.
However, he understood that he had to prove himself worthy of her affection by reaching the top of her priority list.
With Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s numerous exnations, Su Bin¡¯s resentment towards her had dissipated. In fact, he became more intrigued and eager to know her on a deeper level.
Considering this, Su Bin replied, ¡°No problem.¡±
¡°You¡¯ve been so helpful to me, and I¡¯m more than willing to return the favor.
Whatever you need me to do to support you, I¡¯ll dlyply.¡±
At the end of the sentence, Su Bin¡¯s tone had shifted, bing less serious and somewhat mischievous, as if he were teasing her yfully. Qin Zhenzhen blushed in response to his yful demeanor.
¡°Thank you so much!¡± she replied with gratitude.
¡°Actually, we don¡¯t really need to work too hard. Let¡¯s just make it appear as if we¡¯re a family!¡± she suggested, a bit flustered by her own idea.
After uttering this, Qin Zhenzhen quickly made her way out, feeling a bit embarrassed by her own audacity. She couldn¡¯t help but reflect on the age gap between them ¨C had she forgotten how young she used to be and how much older Su Bin was now?
She blushed even more, realizing that she was taken aback by a light-hearted joke from a young boy.
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s retreat, Su Bin felt a sense of joy washing over him.
This chubby girl is so interesting.
He had initially perceived her as shameless, but now he saw her as someone who was sensitive to teasing.
She imed not to have any feelings for him anymore, but he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that she was being untruthful. Her recent blush suggested otherwise; if she truly didn¡¯t like him, such a reaction wouldn¡¯t have urred.
The decision to divorce him came as a result of feeling neglected for too long, which had taken a toll on her self-esteem.
In response, Su Bin resolved not to ignore her any further. He made a conscious choice to invest time and effort into nurturing feelings for her, hoping that over time, their connection would grow stronger.
On Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s first day, Su Bin took her shopping for clothes. As she tried on different outfits, he eagerly offered his opinions, showering her withpliments.
¡°Darling, you look absolutely stunning in this dress. If you like it, we can get two sets,¡± he yfully suggested, using the term ¡°wife.¡±
The mention of the word ¡°wife¡± caused Qin Zhenzhen to almost blush again, revealing a flicker of emotions.
¡°One set is enough. I am trying to watch my diet, and soon it won¡¯t fit me,¡± she responded.
Su Bin insisted, ¡°You look fantastic just the way you are. You don¡¯t need to restrict yourself from enjoying food.. It pains me to see you suffer like this¡¡±
Chapter 175 - 175: Customed
Chapter 175: Customed
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen shivered as goosebumps covered her arms, and she interrupted Su Bin, saying, ¡°You talk way too much!¡±
In other words, he had gone overboard with his acting.
¡°Okay, I understand,¡± Su Bin replied, realizing he should tone it down.
They continued to cooperate at the Chen Family, with Qin Zhenzhen picking vegetables while Su Bin helped. When she started washing vegetables, he insisted, ¡°Darling, take a break. Let me handle this.¡±
During the cooking, Su Bin even took over Chen Shanshan¡¯s task of starting the fire and bombarded Qin Zhenzhen with all sorts of questions.
At dinner, they went as far as serving Qin Zhenzhen food. She blushed at his overly enthusiastic cooperation, but couldn¡¯t find it in herself to be angry with him.
Chen Shanshan yfully teased Qin Zhenzhen, saying, ¡°Master, do you think your husband is acting strangely? Is he trying to sleep with you after the examination?¡±
Flustered, Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°What on earth are you talking about? We made a pact to wait until he reaches the top of the list before even considering sharing a room!¡±
¡°He¡¯s behaving this way because of examination syndrome! Many candidates experience this anxiety disorder before the results are released. They say and do odd things to cope with the stress,¡± Chen Shanshan exined.
¡°If they don¡¯t find ways to distract themselves, the anxiety will only escte. On the day the rankings are revealed, emotions will run high. Those who don¡¯t make it might be furious, and those who do might be ecstatic to the point of craziness!¡±
¡°What? Examination syndrome is that scary?¡± Chen Shanshan eximed in fear after hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s exnation.
¡°Don¡¯t worry, spend more time with Young Master Su and talk to him,¡± Chen
Shanshan advised.
Qin Zhenzhen agreed, saying, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll do that.¡±
Little did they know that Su Bin overheard their conversation. He couldn¡¯t help but inwardly chuckle, acknowledging that Qin Zhenzhen had some peculiar theories that strangely sounded usible.
Qin Silong was also perplexed and approached Qin Zhenzhen privately, asking,
¡°Zhenzhen, what did you say to Su Bin? How did he end up like this?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen exined, ¡°I just suggested that we pretend to be a couple in
front of others.¡±
She rified that Su Bin¡¯s behavior wasn¡¯t entirely excessive, but rather,pared to his usual reserved demeanor, it did seem unusual.
She then recounted her exnation to Chen Shanshan.
However, Qin Silong wasn¡¯t easily fooled by this exnation.
¡°I observed him closely after the examination, and he seemed quite calm. I don¡¯t think he¡¯s suffering from examination syndrome. It appears more likely that he has developed feelings for you and wants to rely on you,¡± Qin Silong suggested.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head adamantly. ¡°No, that can¡¯t be. Su Bin has this odd habit of being allergic to women. He doesn¡¯t even show interest in beautiful women, let alone someone like me, a chubby girl.¡±
Qin Silong questioned her further, ¡°But what about all the times I¡¯ve seen him getting close to you? He never acted allergic around you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found it hard to counter that point, but she persisted, ¡°We¡¯re just pretending for the sake of our n. Perhaps he¡¯s grateful for our help, so he¡¯s putting on this act to cooperate.¡±
Mumbling, Qin Silongmented, ¡°His level of cooperation is a bit overwhelming. It gives me goosebumps.¡±
Trying tofort her Fourth Brother, Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°You¡¯ll get used to it. I can¡¯t reveal the truth to him right now. Let¡¯s not push too hard. If he feels embarrassed, he might not y along.¡±
Deep down, Qin Silong couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Qin Zhenzhen secretly enjoyed Su Bin¡¯s behavior. After all, she used to have strong feelings for him and wanted to marry him at all costs. He recognized that he couldn¡¯t stand in the way of her heart if she still had feelings for Su Bin..
Chapter 176 - 176: Rankings
Chapter 176: Rankings
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
However, Qin Silong had no intention of seeking revenge on Su Bin. He couldn¡¯t bring himself to harm someone who had once saved his life.
As the rtionship between the two families improved, Qin Silong found himself growing more at ease with the situation. If something were to develop between Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen, he wouldn¡¯t object too strongly.
Feeling reassured by this thought, Qin Silong apanied Qin Zhenzhen to check the examination results when they were released.
Arge number of candidates gathered to check their rankings. Despite knowing they had answered some questions incorrectly, they still held onto hope of making it onto the list.
There were around 1,000 candidates from several counties, but there were only two red lists, each amodating 100 people.
In other words, out of almost 1,000 candidates, only 200 would make it onto the list.
Thepetition at the bottom of the red list was fierce, and it was exceptionally challenging for ordinary candidates to secure a spot.
Qin Silong assured them, ¡°You both wait here. I will go and check the rankings.¡±
Nodding in agreement, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°Okay.¡±
On the other hand, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of excitement at the prospect of seeing his ranking. Making it to the top 10 would secure his position as a Best Performer, granting him numerous benefits. He¡¯d receive bonuses not only from the province but also from the mansion and county. Furthermore, he could study at the prefectural school for free and receive monthly subsidies from the government.
The additional perk was that he could vouch for candidates in the Cultivated Talent examination every year, which was a lucrative opportunity. Each candidate needed one liang for each examination, and to be a Cultivated Talent, they needed to pass eight examinations. Being able to guarantee five candidates at a time meant a substantial ie.
As Su Bin was about to step forward to check his ranking, Qin Zhenzhen gently tugged at his sleeves, cautioning, ¡°Don¡¯t rush in. It¡¯s possible that those who want to harm you might take advantage of the crowd to hurt you.¡±
Su Bin hesitated for a while and stopped.
At this moment, Qin Zhenzhen suddenly sensed that there were four or five people approaching them.
She grabbed Su Bin¡¯s hands. ¡°Stay behind and don¡¯t leave!¡±
¡°Okay,¡± Su Binplied, sensing the tension and danger in the air. He followed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s lead and moved in close to her, almost forgetting the perilous situation as he became captivated by the scent of a young girl and the soft warmth of her hands.
It was the first time he had held a girl¡¯s hand, and it stirred a flutter in his heart.
However, Qin Zhenzhen was not going to let these intruders ruin their day. Her anger surged, and she tightened her grip on the iron rod she held in her hands, ready to defend herself and Su Bin if needed. How dare they show up in broad daylight?
¡°wnoever dares to to my man, 1 will DreaK ms legs!¡± Qin znenznen tierce1Y dered, but the men seemed undeterred and continued to approach them.
In a quick decision, Qin Zhenzhen pulled Su Bin towards a crowded area, shouting for help. ¡°Officer, someone is trying to hurt the candidates!¡±
With guards present to maintain order, she hoped they would intervene and protect them.
However, an unexpected turn of events urred when another man shouted,
¡°Help me catch my sister! She ran away with a man!¡±
Hearing this, the others hesitated and stopped Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin subconsciously.
The man who imed to be the sister¡¯s brother attempted to grab Qin Zhenzhen, but she skillfully dodged him.
He feigned distress and continued, ¡°My dear sister, stop this nonsense! Come home with me, what¡¯s so good about this pretty boy? He¡¯s worthless except for his looks!¡±
¡°Running away with him, have you run out of money already?¡±
¡°Without money, he¡¯ll likely sell you to a brothel!¡±
Chapter 177 - 177: Su Bin
Chapter 177: Su Bin
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s anger turned into frustration, and sheughed bitterly. Raising the stick, she swung it at the man who pretended to be her brother.
¡°How dare you impersonate my brother and spread lies! I¡¯ll teach you a lesson!¡± she eximed furiously.
¡°No one believes you! I am not his sister!¡± she continued, trying to rify the situation. ¡°I didn¡¯t elope either. He is my husband!¡±
¡°They are a gang that kidnaps girls!¡± she cried out, hoping to expose their true intentions.
However, the onlookers didn¡¯t take her seriously, as the man who imed to be her brother didn¡¯t dispute her usations and merely cried out in a pitiful manner.
¡°Sister, please stop hitting me. My head will break!¡± he pleaded dramatically.
¡°Sister, no one will believe you. If it were a gang kidnapping girls, they wouldn¡¯t have chosen a chubby girl like you¡¡± the onlookers teased, finding the situation amusing and refusing to believe Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ims.
In the modern era, few people would suspect a man so easily, let alone in the ancient era, where people were generally more trusting and naive.
The man covered his head, trying to evade Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s blows, and angrily threatened, ¡°Since you refuse to acknowledge me as your brother, I¡¯ll knock you out and take you home!¡±
Hispanions rushed forward in support of him, believing it to be a family dispute and merely watching themotion. Even the guards present didn¡¯t intervene.
Qin Zhenzhen realized that these men were from the Jiang Family in the capital and were skilled in martial arts. She understood that she couldn¡¯t handle them on her own. If they managed to drag her onto their wagon, she would be in grave danger.
Su Bin, being a weak schr, could not be helpful in the face of the danger surrounding Qin Zhenzhen. He knew he couldn¡¯t physically defend her, but he refused to stand idly by.
Despite his anxiety, he recognized that intervening directly might put Qin Zhenzhen at risk too. Instead, he tried to buy time until Qin Silong arrived to help.
In a desperate attempt to expose the truth about the Jiang Family, Su Bin bravely asked, ¡°Are you from the Jiang Family in the capital?¡±
The men were taken aback by his question and quickly denied it, cursing him for talking nonsense.
Undeterred, Su Bin raised his voice even louder, hoping to draw attention to their deceit. ¡°That¡¯s strange! If you¡¯re not from the Jiang Family in the capital, then you must be fake criminals!¡±
However, few people paid attention to what Su Bin was saying. Most candidates were preupied with their own rankings and whether they made it onto the list, especially the top positions.
Conversations among the candidates filled the air.
¡°I didn¡¯t make it this year. I need to work harder next year!¡±
¡°I wonder which county the winner is from?¡±
Someone answered. ¡°It is Su Bin from the Qian Vige in Dahe Town!¡±
¡°I heard that he is ranked first in the county examination!¡±
¡°That is so cool!¡±
¡°I would like to meet you in person!¡±
Hearing that, Su Bin was overjoyed.
Meanwhile, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart raced with mixed emotions. The news about Su Bin¡¯s top ranking had already spread, but her Fourth Brother had not returned yet. She began to worry that he might have been intercepted and dyed by the kidnappers.
She was waving the stick anxiously when Su Bin shouted.
¡°Everyone, I am Su Bin! I am ranked first! Someone is trying to kidnap my wife, please help me!¡±
That worked. The candidates surrounded them.
¡°Which one is Su Bin? Let me see if he has three heads and six arms!¡± ¡°He is so handsome!¡±
¡°More importantly, he is not very old, and he is still a young man!¡±
Chapter 178 - 178: Expanding
Chapter 178: Expanding
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The candidates all sighed emotionally. For many, those who could secure the top positions in the county examination were nothing short of idols.
As the tension rose among the group, Qin Zhenzhen found herself bing more and more motivated, refusing to sumb to fear.
Su Bin¡¯s capability was evident, and it gave her hope that they could resist being taken away easily.
Su Bin kept shouting, his voice determined, ¡°Officer, I am Su Bin, and Qin Zhenzhen is my wife. We don¡¯t know these people at all. Pleasee and arrest them!¡±
In that crucial moment, some of the candidates recognized Su Bin. ¡°Yes, he is
Su Bin. I shared a room with him the other day at the settlement.¡±
Two candidates from West Mountain College also stepped forward, confirming loudly, ¡°Yes, Officer, he is Su Bin. He studies at West Mountain College with us!¡±
¡°The girl who fought is Su Bin¡¯s wife! She came to West Mountain College, and we have all seen her!¡±
The guards promptly surrounded them.
The men were on the verge of turning around and fleeing when the guards quickly surrounded them.
The capture of the culprit who attempted to kidnap the top-ranked daughter-inw was a significant achievement.
The men hadn¡¯t anticipated Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s impressive capabilities. Their attempt to subdue her had failed, and they missed their chance.
Had they known how formidable she was, they wouldn¡¯t have chosen this moment to attack.
Fearing exposure, the men exchanged a nervous nce and decided to make a dash for it.
However, the guards acted swiftly, shouting in unison and attempting to apprehend them.
Taking a moment to catch her breath, Qin Zhenzhen paused.
Su Bin gently ced his hands on her waist. ¡°Darling, are you hurt anywhere?¡±
Feeling a bit tense but not pushing Su Bin away, Qin Zhenzhen shook her head.
Relieved, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but me himself. ¡°It¡¯s my fault for not being able to protect you. You were almost kidnapped.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen gently pushed away Su Bin¡¯s hands, her voice small and trembling. ¡°I¡¯m sweating all over, please don¡¯t get so close.¡±
Su Bin didn¡¯t insist on holding her waist any longer. He wasn¡¯t quite sure why he did it, but he found the sensationforting and soft, and he couldn¡¯t get enough of it.
But then an important thought crossed his mind, and he started shouting,
¡°Guys, let me ask you again, are you from the Jiang Family in the capital?¡±
The men, now surrounded by guards, vehemently denied, ¡°What are you talking about? We are not from the Jiang Family!¡±
They weren¡¯t about to admit anything.
Su Bin nodded, pondering, ¡°You mentioned being my wife¡¯s brother, and I thought you were from the Jiang Family, her cousins, perhaps!¡±
¡°But you look so fierce, nothing like them!¡±
The men were frustrated beyond measure. They had no idea what this boy was going to say next.
Would they manage to escape today?
Su Bin turned to the onlookers, his voice earnest, ¡°Have you heard of the Jiang
Family in the capital? The Jiang Family with outstanding men and women.¡±
One or two informed candidates replied loudly, ¡°Yes, we know about the Jiang
Family in the capital, but what does that have to do with this?¡±
Su Bin then turned to Qin Zhenzhen and spoke gently, ¡°Let my wife do the talking.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen understood Su Bin¡¯s intention. She was about to expose the ugly truth about the Jiang Family.
She was determined to make a big deal out of this and let everyone know that she was already Su Bin¡¯s wife.
In this way, the Jiang Family would never dare to send her into the pce again.
Qin Zhenzhen started to exin, her voice steady, ¡°My grandma is originally from the Jiang Family in the capital. She possesses incredible skills in both cooking and medicine. However, due to a physical condition with her eyes, she was married off to someone from the countryside..¡±
Chapter 179 - 179: Doctor
Chapter 179: Doctor
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°I have been learning from Grandma since I was a child, and, in her words, I have already surpassed my master. Yet, I have always heeded her advice and never revealed my abilities.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen paused for a while and Su Bin continued.
¡°It wasn¡¯t until she married me and saw that my family was living in poverty that she couldn¡¯t help but showcase her skills. However, this attracted the jealousy of some malicious individuals.¡±
¡°They pretended to be from the Jiang Family in the capital and asked my wife to divorce me. They imed that they wanted to take her to the capital to enjoy wealth and glory,¡±
As in Zhenzhen listened to Su Bin, she admired his eloquence and quick thinking. They hadn¡¯t rehearsed this before, but they seemed to have a natural and harmonious connection. It wasn¡¯t just a coincidence; they truly understood each other.
Bah! That could not be happening!
Putting their performance aside, Su Bin urged Qin Zhenzhen to continue the story.
Qin Silong finally managed to get rid of the people who were trying to stop him and rushed over to Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin¡¯s side. He saw them putting on a convincing act, and although he felt relieved, he quickly turned to help the guards in subduing the men.
Qin Zhenzhen continued with emotion, ¡°My husband and I don¡¯t want to give in to their demands. We believe that they are impostors, pretending to be from the Jiang Family. So, we turned down their offer.¡±
¡°I can¡¯t believe they are going to kidnap me!¡±
¡°They had already attacked us once in Qian Vige, and failed. Our Second
Brother was even injured because of that incident.¡±
¡°And now, they are trying this method again, attempting to kidnap me!¡± she eximed.
Someone asked, ¡°Why did they kidnap you?¡±
Su Bin said, ¡°You want to learn skills from my wife!¡±
Everyone was enlightened.
¡°I see, these people are so shameless!¡±
¡°I¡¯ve heard that the Jiang Family¡¯s culinary skills and medical books are not meant to be shared with outsiders.¡±
¡°No wonder they tried to kidnap Miss Qin!¡±
¡°I understand now. They are attempting to learn from the Jiang Family!¡±
With Qin Silong¡¯s assistance, the guards swiftly subdued the four men, tying them up and preparing to take them back to the governmental office.
Impressed by Qin Silong¡¯s martial arts skills, one of the guards inquired, ¡°Brother, where are you from? Who is your mentor? We have a vacancy here. If you¡¯re interested in joining us, I can introduce you.¡±
Having a skilled person on their team would make it much easier to apprehend criminals in the future.
Qin Silong introduced himself and exined that he needed to protect his sister for the time being.
It was only then that the guards realized Qin Silong was Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s Fourth Brother.
The guards overheard Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s conversation.
One officer couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Miss Qin, are you the doctor who cured the Officer¡¯s mother?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and nodded. ¡°I am not a miracle doctor, but I am the one who cured Old Lady¡¯s lumbago.¡±
¡°Oh, please forgive us, Miss Qin. We failed to recognize you,¡± the guards humbly apologized.
The guards¡¯ demeanor towards Qin Zhenzhen underwent a noticeable change, and they showed her great respect.
Realizing that she was the benefactor of their officer, they now considered her their benefactor as well.
Seeing that Old Lady¡¯s back was no longer in pain, the governor smiled once again. He was known for his leniency towards his subordinates and, as a gesture of gratitude, he treated them to a good meal at the restaurant.
Miss Qin had indeed been generous to them, providing them with various benefits.
¡°Don¡¯t worry, Miss Qin. I assure you that I will offer you a proper exnation..¡±
Chapter 180 - 180: Communication
Chapter 180: Communication
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen beamed with a grateful smile and said, ¡°Thanks for your help.¡±
¡°You¡¯re wee.¡±
The guards divided their forces, escorting the four men into the governmental office, while the others remained to maintain order.
As onlookers caught sight of Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong, they couldn¡¯t help but be moved by the scene.
¡°The Jiang Family in the capital truly has an abundance of talent.¡± ¡°Even their descendants from outside the family are remarkably powerful.¡± ¡°Cooking, medical skills, martial arts¡ªwhat don¡¯t they excel in?¡±
¡°The son-inw they¡¯ve chosen is truly exceptional, ranking first among them!¡±
As the crowd surrounded Su Bin, the examinees were all curious, bombarding him with questions about his remarkable achievement.
It was a challenge for Su Bin to find space amidst the crowd.
Qin Zhenzhen then took out a money bag she had prepared and poured its contents onto the ground.
¡°Let¡¯s collect the happiness money! ¡±
¡°Good luck! Good luck!¡±
The candidates eagerly scrambled for the money in the underground passage.
Their interest wasn¡¯t in the money itself but rather in the belief that acquiring this ¡®happiness money¡¯ brought good luck and would ensure their sess in the next examination.
Once Su Bin was done, he left and began his journey back to the Chen Family. A sense of joy overwhelmed him, and he couldn¡¯t resist asking Qin Zhenzhen,
¡°Did you already prepare the money? Were you confident I would rank at the
Pursing her lips, Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°I¡¯m not a deity. How could I have predicted your result? I just wanted to be prepared in case people called you stingy for not sharing the wedding money.¡±
Su Bin casually remarked, ¡°Darling, you¡¯re always so thoughtful.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but re at him. ¡°No need to act here; there are no outsiders.¡±
Innocently, Su Bin replied, ¡°It¡¯s second nature to me. Can¡¯t me me for that.¡± At a loss for words, Qin Zhenzhen quickened her pace.
Walking behind them, Qin Silong furrowed his brow. Did Su Bin do that on purpose?
Ignoring Zhenzhen for two months and now suddenly trying to flirt with her?
The examination concluded smoothly, without any issues, leaving the governor thoroughly satisfied.
In recent days, the governor noticed his mother¡¯s improved health. Her back no longer ached, and she had a healthy appetite. Her joyfulughter further uplifted the governor¡¯s spirits.
Upon learning that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s husband had achieved the top rank in the examination, the governor held her in even higher regard.
The interrogation of the four men took ce on the same day.
Despite their ents resembling those of the capital, the men vehemently denied any association with the Jiang Family. Under torture, they confessed to being bandits from the notorious Meishan Mountain bandits¡¯ nest.
Their leader, Elder Brother, had heard rumors about Qin Zhenzhen being a lucky star, capable of bringing prosperity to her family and husband. Motivated by this, he ordered the kidnapping, intending to make her his wife. Seeing that their confessions were consistent, the officer closed the case.
Qin Zhenzhen knew this would be the inevitable oue.
Even if she had insisted that they were from the Jiang Family, it wouldn¡¯t have served her well.
She understood her limitations; she wasn¡¯t strong enough to challenge the Jiang Family, especially considering their connections to the Emperor.
Even if the governor had known that those people were sent by the Jiang Family, it¡¯s doubtful he would have stood by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s side either.
However, after this incident was exposed, it was unlikely that the Jiang Family would dare to make any further attempts to kidnap her.
Nheless, losing four men had likely left the Jiang Family resentful, and they wouldn¡¯t simply let her go.
With this grudge now settled, Qin Zhenzhen nned to expose Su Bin¡¯s background and reveal his identity as the Young Master of the Marquis¡¯
Mansion. This move would serve as a deterrent against the Jianz Family, preventing them from targeting her and her family.
In the past few days, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin¡¯s names were on everyone¡¯s lips throughout the prefecture.
But it was Qin Zhenzhen who garnered the most attention.
The story of how her family had supported her husband spread like wildfire, magnifying her reputation across the entire region..
Chapter 181 - 181: A Boy
Chapter 181: A Boy
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Elementary Level examination was next.
The prefectural governor hosted a poetry banquet for 200 renowned candidates, all of whom held prominent rankings. Su Bin, being the top-ranked candidate, felt obliged to attend. To maintain their cover, Qin Silong disguised himself as a schr, apanying Su Bin to the event as his personal guard. The governor appreciated this gesture, seeing it as a reflection of the high regard he held for both Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin.
Despite Su Bin¡¯s modest appearance as a poorly dressed schr, he exuded an extraordinary temperament that left asting impression on the governor. The governor admired Su Bin for his unique presence and demeanor.
The poetry appreciation gathering concluded on a high note, and Su Bin and Qin Silong returned safely to the Chen Family.
Observing the events, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but sigh.
Qin Silong shared with her, ¡°I thought that Su Bin had changed and became talkative and clingy, but that is not the case at all! He is totally different in front of you and those examination candidates.¡±
¡°In the whole poetry appreciation gathering, apart from making two poems on the spot, he only showed a brief smile when the governor praised him and the students admired him.¡±
¡°Then he exudes a cold aura and tries to get close to ordinary candidates. At most, he nods and keeps people at arm¡¯s length.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen held back herughter, finding his behavior amusing.
There was nothing wrong with that!
Arrogant, cold, and quiet. He did not want to hang out with anyone. That was what Su Bin was like in the book.
He talked a lot to her, and he seemed to like sticking to her. That was all an act, wasn¡¯t it?
Although he was over the top sometimes, she understood that he was still a teenager, and it was understandable that he could not control the scenes well.
Hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s exnation, Qin Silong felt speechless.
¡°Zhenzhen, you are not a man. You may not understand what men do. When he treats a woman differently¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen interrupted Fourth Brother. ¡°I told you that it was just an act. Also, Su Bin is not a man, he is a big boy¡¡±
Su Bin came to her. ¡°Darling¡¡±
Hearing what Qin Zhenzhen said, Su Bin¡¯s face changed.
No one wanted to be called a man by their own wife.
¡°What do you want from me?¡± Su Bin asked, feeling a bit embarrassed. After all, she was two years younger than him, and it was very strange for her to say those words.
She had previously revealed to Qin Silong that she had been a ghost for so many years, and she was actually dozens of years old, making her more experienced than Qin Silong.
For this reason, Qin Silong¡¯s tone and actions towards her were understandable.
But Su Bin had no idea!
Also, she seemed to have humiliated him.
Sure enough, Su Bin frowned. ¡°You are two years younger than me, and I am a big boy, what are you?¡±
Qin Silong felt that he was an eyesore here, so he turned around and left.
He was feeling veryplicated.
For one thing, he wanted his sister to get divorced. After all, he had harmed his whole family in the dream. Even if they did not kill him for revenge, they would not want to be inws.
On the other hand, he did not really want his sister to get divorced. After all, a divorced woman would have a bad reputation, and it would be very difficult for her to marry into a good family.
From the looks of it, Su Bin¡¯s attitude towards his sister had changed. He no longer hated her. Instead, he was grateful and admired her. Honestly, Su Bin was not a bad person. He had good morality.
He was not sure if she would turn bad in the future.
But his sister could not tell that Su Bin was flirting with her.
Should he just let nature take its course, or cut off the sprouts?
On Su Bin¡¯s side, Qin Zhenzhen replied calmly, ¡°I am just a little girl..¡±
Chapter 182 - 182: Unreasonable
Chapter 182: Unreasonable
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin couldn¡¯t resist teasing her. ¡°A bold little girl who not only dares to marry a man but also asks to share a room with him!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen blushed again.
She retained the original host¡¯s memory. On their wedding night, Su Bin went to the study to sleep, and the original host followed, trying to persuade Su Bin to sleep with her.
Su Bin wasn¡¯t as forceful as the original host, and he almost got dragged into the room.
Infuriated, Su Bin cut off the original host¡¯s sleeves and threatened that if she tried to drag him into the room again, he would kill her beforemitting suicide.
Only then did the original host let him go.
Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t to me, but she couldn¡¯t exin herself. She had no choice but to say, ¡°I was too foolish back then!¡±
Curious, Su Bin asked, ¡°What do you mean?¡±
¡°It¡¯s just a metaphor. I mean that people blinded by love can act foolishly.¡±
Su Binughed. ¡°Oh, so you think there¡¯s no water in your head? Where did it all go?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen suddenly thought of an inte term and red at him. ¡°I¡¯ve been ¡®cleared away by the sun,¡¯ of course! Anyway, let¡¯s not dwell on the past. I¡¯ve be wiser now! ¡±
¡°Oh, I see!¡±
However, Su Bin didn¡¯t continue; instead, he changed the topic.
¡°I am here to discuss something with you,¡± he said.
Su Bin¡¯s demeanor turned serious, and he gazed at Qin Zhenzhen without moving, as though trying to read her thoughts.
¡°What is it that you want to talk about?¡± Qin Zhenzhen asked, taking a chair and sitting down, maintaining a distance of ten feet from Su Bin. She subtly lowered her head, feeling uneasy under his sharp gaze, fearing she might inadvertently reveal something.
¡°As long as we venture outside, there always seem to be people observing us. I wonder if they are targeting you or me,¡± Su Bin said thoughtfully.
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°I already warned you not to go out these days, whether they have a grudge against you or me.¡±
Su Bin reassured her, ¡°Regardless of their arrogance, they wouldn¡¯t dare to make a move within these walls. Besides, the governor has even stationed guards here.¡±
¡°Please don¡¯t worry; I will ensure nothing happens before the examination.¡±
Su Bin frowned. ¡°But we can¡¯t just keep hiding like this.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen turned to him. ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±
She had already thought of a way. She had written the story of Su Bin¡¯s father in the form of a book, recing the Marquis¡¯ Mansion with a wealthy businessman and altering the names and plot details. In the new version, the protagonist was depicted as a young master who faced mistreatment from his stepmother and had no choice but to leave home.
Secretly, she had asked her Fourth Brother to find a skilled storyteller who would narrate this revised tale at the teahouses in the prefecture, starting tomorrow. However, she had not revealed this n to Su Bin.
Unaware of her efforts, Su Bin revealed his own idea. ¡°I¡¯ve documented the story you told mest time. I want your Fourth Brother to find some storytellers at the tea houses.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen looked at Su Bin in surprise. ¡°Do you think that will be effective? Do you truly believe that the main character in the story is your father?¡±
Su Bin suddenly sneered. ¡°If you think it¡¯s futile, then why did you ask your Fourth Brother to find the storytellers in the first ce?¡±
She was hiding something from him.
Caught off guard, Qin Zhenzhen stood up. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Su Bin¡¯s face sank.
¡°I have already noticed what you and your Fourth Brother did. Actually, you have already written the story, and your Fourth Brother has already gone to the storyteller!¡±
¡°You¡¡± Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t believe that her secret with her Fourth Brother would be discovered by Su Bin.
She wanted to defend herself, but she felt that it was meaningless.
But she did not know how to exin that to Su Bin..
Chapter 183 - 183: Misunderstanding
Chapter 183: Misunderstanding
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin¡¯s face sank. ¡°I just want to ask you, do you really know about our background?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I already suspect that.¡±
Su Bin was intrigued. ¡°What do you suspect?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen feltpelled to exin. ¡°I suspect that your father might be a noble young master from the capital!¡±
¡°The governor¡¯s mother grew up in the capital. After she married the governor¡¯s father, she lived there for a while beforeing to this region with her son.¡±
¡°I inquired if anything special happened to the noble children in the capital over 20 years ago.¡±
¡°I can¡¯t believe that the Old Lady was right about one person.¡± ¡°That man is the heir of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion, and his surname is Su.¡± Su Bin¡¯s face changed again. He couldn¡¯t remain calm any longer.
¡°Really?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen took her time to respond.
¡°Why would I lie to you? Let me tell you about the Marquis¡¯ Mansion.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen intended to leverage Su Bin¡¯s identity as the Young Master of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion to resolve the grudge between him and the Old Marquis, so she was determined to do her best to reveal the truth.
She was trying her best to let Su Bin ept this identity.
¡°The ancestor of the Su Family was a general, and because of his outstanding military achievements, he was conferred the title of marquis by the previous emperor. This title can be passed down.¡±
¡°With this title, the Marquis¡¯s Mansion has been flourishing for a few generations, but their descendantscked prowess in martial arts and literature, so they couldn¡¯t maintain the same prestige as their ancestors.¡± ¡°But they still have the title.¡±
¡°The Old Marquis married Assistant Minister Wang¡¯s daughter when he was young, andter took another wife. The two women were always on equal footing, regardless of age.¡±
¡°The Madame of the Marquis¡¯s Mansion didn¡¯t have any more children after giving birth to one son.¡±
¡°She had been weak and fell seriously ill for four or five years, during which she relied on medicine to stay alive. Unfortunately, she eventually passed away.¡±
¡°Because her son is the eldest and rightful heir, he was supposed to inherit the title of the Marquis¡¯s Mansion.¡±
¡°But the heir suddenly imed that his mother¡¯s death was caused by his stepmother, the concubine. He said he had evidence, but it mysteriously disappeared.¡±
¡°Without evidence, no one would believe him, not even the Old Marquis and his maternal family.¡±
¡°He was so angry that he even renounced his im to the title of heir. He dered himself cut off from the Marquis Mansion, vowing never to associate with them again.¡±
¡°Then, the heir of the Marquis¡¯s Mansion truly disappeared. No one saw him for more than 20 years.¡±
¡°He was the same age as your father.¡±
¡°I heard that the Old Marquis has been sending people to search for his eldest son in the line of session, as he intends to pass on the family legacy.¡± ¡°I was wondering if your father was the heir of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion?¡±
¡°Could it be the equal wife of the Marquis who framed you? She might be concerned that if the Marquis were to find his true heir, it would affect her children¡¯s interests.¡±
¡°I thought of Storyteller.¡±
¡°Through the storyteller, this information will soon reach the Marquis, and he will likely confirm the truth.¡±
¡°Then his wife would have no choice but to cease her scheming.¡±
Hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s exnation, Su Bin grew very angry. ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you tell me before making the decision?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen thought of one reason. ¡°I was worried that you would misunderstand, thinking that I married you because I knew about your family background!¡±
¡°Especially when you mentioned that my grandma is from the capital! ¡±
¡°But in reality, when those things happened, my grandma had already left the capital, and she had no contact with anyone there!¡±
Chapter 184 - 184: Story at the Tea House 1
Chapter 184: Story at the Tea House 1
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin¡¯s face softened a little, but he still sounded very angry. ¡°Can¡¯t you exin? Am I that unreasonable in your eyes?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen asked him back, her tone filled with frustration. ¡°I have already exined it to you. Will you believe me? You don¡¯t believe me. You think that I know something beforehand, so I set you up!¡±
¡°Aren¡¯t you thinking that I treat you well because I know that you are the son of the Marquis Mansion?¡±
¡°Then I retreated and pretended that I wanted to break up with you. Then I said that I was going to deal with the Jiang Family, so I asked you to cooperate with me to make the show real!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen continued to question Su Bin, her anger evident. Su Bin was startled for a moment. That was exactly what he had thought, otherwise, he would not have been so angry.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s frustration escted. ¡°I am right, Young Master Su!¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t tell you about this because I am not sure if it is true. And because you are very suspicious and you don¡¯t trust me 100%!¡±
Su Bin pursed his lips and said nothing.
He was right ¨C he did not trust Qin Zhenzhenpletely.
But when it came to being suspicious, he felt that he needed to exin.
Qin Zhenzhen did not give him a chance to speak.
She had been feeling a bit depressed because of the Jiang Family. She needed to vent the anger in her heart.
¡°I admit that if you are really the Young Master of the Marquis Mansion, you can help me deal with the Jiang Family better.¡±
¡°But I don¡¯t want you to know about this beforehand because I am worried that it will affect your performance in the examination!¡±
¡°I confessed everything.¡±
¡°If you really think that I am using you, then you can stop acting with me. I will find another way to deal with the Jiang Family!¡± Having said that, Qin Zhenzhen turned around and left angrily.
But Su Bin grabbed her and pulled Qin Zhenzhen into his arms.
Qin Zhenzhen was not prepared for this. She pushed him away. ¡°What are you doing?¡±
Su Bin felt a bit ufortable too. But he said, ¡°Darling, don¡¯t be mad. I believe you!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen sneered. ¡°There are no outsiders here, no need to put on a show!¡±
Su Bin exined. ¡°I am used to calling you that..
¡°I was angry just now because I hope that you can talk with me about something in the future. Don¡¯t treat me as an outsider.¡±
¡°We are just putting on an act, but we are grasshoppers on a grass rope, and we should try to be open-minded.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen did not want to leave. She looked at Su Bin again. That made sense.
¡°I misunderstood you?¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°Yeah, what I mean is that we should never hide anything from each other, okay?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in agreement. She would think about thatter.
The two of them made peace.
After the poetry recital, the governor invited the top ten candidates.
Because of Qin Zhenzhen, the governor started to think highly of Su Bin.
They even sent two guards to the Chen Family to protect them.
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen tried not to go out these days.
One was afraid of being hurt, and the other was afraid of being kidnapped by the Jiang Family.
But Qin Silong could move about freely.
He went to find a few storytellers who were all very willing to ept Qin Silong¡¯s work, seeing that they had ready-made storybooks, and the story was veryplicated.
So the storytellers started to tell stories about the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir.
Since the story was full of twists and turns, and people who heard were motivated, thus spreading it around..
Chapter 185 - 185: Story at the Tea House 2
Chapter 185: Story at the Tea House 2
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
That was the story that fascinated the real madams. It served as a stern warning to their husbands, reminding them that they would meet a grim fate if they mistreated their concubines and harmed their wives.
Gathering at the tea house, they eagerly shared the tale from start to finish.
During her visit, the sister of the governor, who was also the wife of the provincial governor, noticed her mother¡¯s improved health and gratefully offered more gifts to Qin Zhenzhen.
Impressed by the delectable vors of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s seasonings, she requested an additional bottle, which fortunately was readily avable through Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cousin in town. The governor¡¯s restaurant was already utilizing the first batch of seasonings, signaling its poprity and sess.
Recognizing the opportunity, Qin Zhenzhen took the chance to forge a strong bond with the governor¡¯s wife,ying the groundwork for future cooperation.
Her seasonings, including soy sauce and various therapeutic food products, found their way beyond the prefecture, reaching the province, and even extending to the capital.
Due to the proximity of the prefectural city to the province, it took less than a day¡¯s journey by wagon, attracting numerous wealthy businessmen who had interests in both areas.
Upon learning of the madame of the prefecture presence in the prefectural city, many affluent businessmen¡¯s wives eagerly invited her for tea, aiming to establish strong connections.
Apanied by her mother, the madam set out for the gathering.
The story they heard was intriguing. Recently, Qin Zhenzhen had inquired with Old Lady about any instances of young masters from noble families running away. Old Lady then recounted the events that took ce at the Marquis Mansion.
Surprisingly, the tale narrated by the storyteller mirrored the incidents at the Marquis Mansion almost identically in the first half, sharing the same historical era, names, and the protagonist¡¯s identity. However, the second half of the story aligned with Su Bin¡¯s unfortunate experiences, which also led to detrimental consequences for the protagonist¡¯s son¡¯s future.
Upon hearing this, Old Lady feltpelled to share the revtion with her daughter and son.
rmed by the simrity and sensing something amiss, the governor and his wife arranged a meeting with Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin at the mansion, joined by Qin Silong and Chen Youwei.
In the study, the governor sat down with Su Bin, delving into what had transpired with Su Bin¡¯s father over the past year and how he attained the status of a Cultivated Talent.
Su Bin was aware that the governor would inquire about the story shared at the tea house. Thus, he decided to be honest and narrated the truth about his father¡¯s life in the Qian Family¡¯s vige and how they were unjustly framed.
Meanwhile, Qin Zhenzhen headed to Old Lady¡¯s room, where she was directly questioned about her involvement with the tea house story. She nodded and confessed, ¡°My husband is the one who wrote the story.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen went on to exin that they had suspicions about Su Bin¡¯s father being a wealthy young master who might have had a family conflict, leading him to sever all ties with them.
Intrigued by the events that took ce in the capital two decades ago, Qin Zhenzhen inquired further from Old Lady.
Upon hearing Old Lady¡¯s ount of the Marquis Mansion, they started to specte that Su Bin¡¯s father might have simrly left home in anger, much like the heir of the Marquis Mansion.
However, Qin Zhenzhen rified, ¡°But that was merely conjecture, so we devised this method of creating a story about my husband to spread it through the storyteller.¡±
¡°Our intention was to put a stop to whoever is trying to frame my husband if our assumptions turned out to be true.¡±
Madame¡¯s gaze locked onto Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eyes as she confronted her directly, ¡°You might as well tell the truth. You suspect that Su Bin¡¯s father is the Prince of the Marquis Mansion!¡±
Taken aback, Qin Zhenzhen appeared startled, but she replied with honesty, ¡°We do have some suspicions, yet we won¡¯t spread any rumors without concrete evidence..¡±
Chapter 186 - 186: Smooth
Chapter 186: Smooth
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°The names and backgrounds in the story are entirely different from reality. We believed that spreading this fabricated tale wouldn¡¯t harm the reputation of the Marquis Mansion. That¡¯s why we dared to take this approach..
¡°All we wanted was to use this story as a deterrent to scare away the person who framed my husband. This way, he could attain the status of a Cultivated Talent without having to toil for ten years in intense study.¡±
¡°Old Lady, I apologize for not discussing this with you beforehand¡¡±
Concerned for Qin Zhenzhen, Old Ladyfortingly patted her daughter¡¯s hands and reassured her, ¡°Alright, alright, no need to scare the girl.¡±
Then, addressing Oin Zhenzhen kindly, she continued, ¡°Miss Qin, don¡¯t be afraid. Truthfully, upon hearing the story from the storyteller, I too have started to suspect Su Bin¡¯s father¡¯s identity.¡±
¡°Especially because both families share the surname Su.¡±
¡°Do you know if Su Bin possesses any tokens or items left by his father?¡±
Upon realizing that Old Lady didn¡¯t me her, Qin Zhenzhen felt a sense of relief and proceeded to share the information.
¡°Myte father-inw left behind two jade pendants. One was given to my Second Brother-inw, but he ended up selling it. The other one is currently in my husband¡¯s possession.¡±
¡°I have seen the jade pendant, but I couldn¡¯t spot any distinctive markings.
However, I could tell it is of significant value.¡±
Old Lady¡¯s curiosity was piqued, and she inquired further, ¡°Did you bring them here? If you did, please show them to me. I can discern at a nce if the jade is of any worth.¡±
Before marrying, Old Lady was an officer¡¯s daughter from the capital, and her family held considerable influence, possessing numerous precious belongings. She had a keen eye and might be able to ascertain if the jade had any connection to the Marquis Mansion.
In her younger days, she had fallen for a handsome schr who came to the capital for examinations, and she eventually married him, the schr who had been registered in the prefecture.
Later, she took over her husband¡¯s position and settled in the outer city. Subsequently, due to her husband¡¯s transfer to an official position, she temporarily returned to the capital. When her son became an officer in the prefecture, she moved back to the prefecture again.
Though she had relocated, she maintained a strong bond with her best friend in the capital, exchanging letters and staying informed about everything happening there.
She was well aware that the Marquis had dispatched people to search for her eldest son and his wife. If she could locate him before the Marquis did and prevent Su Bin from being framed, it would thwart the Marquis¡¯s ns of making him the heir.
Qin Zhenzhen readily agreed, saying, ¡°Yes, I will go and bring them here.¡±
However, Old Lady halted her, saying, ¡°Wait, do you know that Su Bin resembles his father?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded and replied, ¡°My husband mentioned that they share a striking resemnce.¡±
Old Lady then stood up and dered, ¡°In that case, I will apany you to meet Su Bin.¡±
She had encountered the Old Marquis and the Young Master of the Marquis
Mansion on a few asions, which gave her confidence in her ability to identify whether Su Bin was indeed the Young Master of the Marquis Mansion.
Qin Zhenzhen was ted, not expecting things to progress so smoothly. If Old Lady confirmed Su Bin¡¯s father¡¯s identity as the Marquis Mansion heir, then the truth about Su Bin and the others would soon be revealed.
The Old Marquis would likely dispatch someone to retrieve them promptly.
Apanied by Qin Zhenzhen, Old Lady headed to the study. Upon seeing Su Bin, any lingering doubts vanished from her mind.
Examining Su Bin¡¯s jade pendant, Old Lady recognized it as belonging to the Marquis Mansion.
Once Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin had departed, Old Lady informed her son, ¡°I am certain now that Su Bin¡¯s father is the son of the Marquis Mansion who ran away from home.¡±
¡°It is undoubtedly the Madame of the Marquis Mansion who seeks to destroy Su Bin¡¯s future.¡±
¡°Miss Qin and Young Master Su are both clever individuals. The Madame of the Marquis Mansion wouldn¡¯t dare to take further actions with the teahouse story.¡±
¡°The predicament lies in whether we should offer assistance to Miss Qin and the others..¡±
Chapter 187 - 187: Marquis’ Equal Wife
Chapter 187: Marquis¡¯ Equal Wife
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The governor pondered for a moment before speaking, ¡°The Old Marquis seems to be on a quest to find the heir and his offspring. It¡¯s possible that he carries some burden of a secret and feels remorseful about it.¡±
¡°While the heir may be absent, Su Bin appears to be amendable individual. His talent shone through during the poetry appreciation the other day. I believe he has great potential and will likely achieve great sess in the future.¡±
¡°Furthermore, Su Bin¡¯s wife is the sessor of the Jiang Family in the capital, and she possesses exceptional medical and business skills. Together with Su Bin¡¯s abilities, they are bound to attain prosperity even if they choose not to return to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°I¡¯m considering extending a favor to the Old Marquis by informing him of this situation.¡±
Old Lady shared the same thought but still sought her daughter¡¯s opinion. ¡°What do you think?¡±
Madame inquired of Old Lady, ¡°Mother, do you recall how the Old Marquis ended up marrying his cousin?¡±
Old Lady certainly remembered this tale.
Back when the Old Marquis was young, he possessed striking looks and an impressive background, making him a highly sought-after marriage candidate for manydies in the capital. However, he had been betrothed since childhood to the mother of the heir whoter ran away from home.
His equal wife turned out to be his cousin and childhood friend, with whom he had fallen in love.
The Old Marquis had desired to end the engagement, but both sides¡¯ parents disagreed. Through a mix of persuasion and coercion, the Old Marquis eventually convinced the parents to allow him to marry two wives simultaneously.
The son¡¯s mother entered the Marquis Mansion first, and the cousin became the equal wife a yearter. During the initial year of marriage, the Old Marquis and his first wife were deeply in love, and they soon had a son. However, after the cousin joined the household, the Old Marquis began to neglect his first wife.
Rumors circted that the wife¡¯s illness was a result of her long-standing depression. She suffered for four or five years before passing away. Some people spected that it was the equal wife who caused her demise, but due to ack of concrete evidence and limited support from her maternal family, no action was taken.
It wasn¡¯t until the heir publicly severed ties with the Marquis Mansion, ran away, and disappeared from the capital that people began discussing the matter, with some suggesting that there might be truth to the suspicions.
Because of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s immense power, everyone refrained from speaking up about the situation.
It was rumored that when the Old Marquis and the Heir Apparent¡¯s family initially discovered the heir¡¯s disappearance, they were furious. However, they soon regretted not keeping a closer watch on him and dispatched search parties to find him, but no news of his whereabouts surfaced.
Last year, the Old Marquis appeared to have encountered some setback as he became listless and sent multiple groups of people to find the heir, even putting up announcements. Unexpectedly, the heir had chosen to hide in a humble countryside, where he married a local girl, rather than returning to the Marquis Mansion. Consequently, those searching for him were unwilling to explore the countryside.
The wife of the Old Marquis must have located them first since the jade was now in their possession. Upon seeing Su Bin¡¯s face and confirming their identities, she might have taken the initiative.
As the Old Marquis¡¯ equal wife did note from a prominent family, and her son was not highly regarded, despite the heir being absent for so many years, the Old Marquis still didn¡¯t name her son as the heir. This could be the reason behind her decision to involve Su Bin in the situation.
She might have believed that Su Bin posed a significant threat due to having numerous siblings who seemed inconsequential, making him the only potential contender for the inheritance.
However, she could have been apprehensive about the consequences of resorting to murder, knowing that if the Marquis discovered her involvement, it would spell doom for her future. This fear might have deterred her from taking any extreme measures against Su Bin..
Chapter 188 - 188: Making Money
Chapter 188: Making Money
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Hearing what the Old Lady said, Madame Qiao smiled. ¡°Because Old Marquis¡¯ equal life doesn¡¯t hold any power, she doesn¡¯t dare to be so arrogant.
Otherwise, Su Bin and his family would have been exterminated!¡±
The governor understood what his sister meant. She had extended her help to Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen, and the Old Marquis, and he believed it was worth risking the offense of an influential person with no real authority.
Besides, it wouldn¡¯t pose a threat to their careers; in fact, it might even prove beneficial.
Old Lady added, ¡°Regardless of her influence, her actions are utterly shameless!¡±
The governor made up his mind.
¡°Then it¡¯s settled. I will write a letter and send it to the Marquis Mansion, delivering it personally to the Old Marquis. As for the veracity of its contents, that¡¯s none of our concern.¡±
Old Lady nodded. ¡°Let Miss Qin and the others know about this, and we¡¯ll help them draft the letter. However, we must refrain from getting involved in what unfolds afterward.¡±
The governor nodded and began writing the letter.
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin appeared unperturbed by the situation they found themselves in.
Especially Su Bin, who disyed an unexpected sense ofposure upon hearing that he might be the Young Master of the Marquis Mansion.
In response to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s statement about his potential position as the heir, Su Bin calmly expressed his resolve, ¡°I won¡¯t return to the Marquis Mansion until I uncover the truth about my father¡¯s departure.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen feigned surprise and questioned his decision, ¡°Why? Aren¡¯t you willing to embrace your new status?¡±
Gazing at her intently, Su Bin responded, ¡°You think that if I be the Young Master of the Marquis Mansion, I can help you deal with the Jiang Family more easily?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was annoyed. ¡°I told you before, I can find another way to deal with the Jiang Family!¡±
Su Bin exined, ¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand me. I know that with that identity, the Jiang Family won¡¯t dare to do anything to you, but I need to take my father into consideration.¡±
¡°My father would rather live a miserable life at the Qian Family Vige than return to the capital. That shows how much he hated his father!¡±
¡°For your sake, I can make peace with him and let the Jiang Family know that the Marquis Mansion is our backer. But it is impossible for me to agree to return to the family! ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t believe it. ¡°For me?¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°Yes, for you!¡±
¡°You have helped me so much, and I should help you once. Before I have the ability, I don¡¯t mind being humiliated.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found it hard toprehend how he could do this for her.
In the original book, Su Bin was portrayed as a ruthless person who sought revenge for the smallest grievance.
He did not care about familial ties at all. Not only did he refuse to make peace, but he also drove the people from the Marquis Mansion to death one by one. He spared only the Old Marquis, but he did not spare the Old Marquis either, because the Old Marquis was driven to death.
When the Old Marquis passed away, he did not even take a look at him, let alone watch over him.
The Old Marquis was his grandfather.
And he was not sure if he should return to the family.
However, no matter what, Su Bin was determined not to turn evil. It was a positive transformation that he became more humane. Qin Zhenzhen asked him with a smile, ¡°Then should I thank you properly?¡±
Su Bin imitated her and asked, ¡°How are you going to thank me?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen made a promise. ¡°I want to make a lot of money, and I will share some with you!¡±
Su Bin smiled.. ¡°Why would I need so much money? Also, if I make it to the top,
I can be a high-ranking officer!¡±
Chapter 189 - 189: Cultivated Talent
Chapter 189: Cultivated Talent
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
What Su Bin wanted to make clear was that he would not rely on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s money once he became an officer.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expression turned even more serious as she replied, ¡°Because you are going to be a high-ranking officer, you need money more. With enough money, you will not be a corrupt officer!¡±
This statement startled Su Bin, and he asked, ¡°Do you think I have the potential to be a corrupt official?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen inwardly nodded, recalling that in the book, Su Bin was depicted as not only sinister but also a corrupt official. The book attributed this to his indifference towards money due to his poverty.
However, Qin Zhenzhen continued shaking her head, implying that such assumptions were not necessarily urate.
¡°That is not true. How can we tell? But people who be high-ranking officials are always tempted by the outside world. If they can¡¯t resist it, they will get greedy the first time, and then there will be a second time, and then there will be countless times.¡±
¡°In the end, you would forget your original intention.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s response was a reassuring smile as he said, ¡°Then I promise you that I will never be a corrupt officer!¡±
After a few days of rest, the time for the institutional examination had arrived.
Those who passed this examination would be promoted to Elementary Level and would then be eligible to take the institutional examination.
Upon passing the institutional examination, the candidate would attain the status of a Cultivated Talent, a prestigious aplishment that was very difficult to achieve in ancient times.
In each prefecture, there were only 300 individuals who could be recognized as Cultivated Talents.
As the institutional examination approached, the prefecture became livelier, with Elementary Level students who were here for the examination gathering in anticipation.
Meanwhile, candidates who had not seeded in the examination were heading back home, and alongside them, there were also Elementary Level students who had failed the institutional examination in previous years, akin to repeaters in modern times.
And they could repeat for decades.
Some Elementary Level students were already gray-haired, and they were determined to be Cultivated Talents.
So three dayster, there would be more than 200 candidates for the institutional examination, about 3,000 to 4,000 people.
Due to the story at the tea house, the eyes that were staring at Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen had disappeared.
But Qin Zhenzhen and the others did not let down their guard. They would not go out alone.
On the day when Su Bin went to the institutional examination, Qin Zhenzhen, Qin Silong, and two guards apanied him.
They were safe and sound along the way.
Su Bin passed the security check as well.
It was the same for three consecutive examinations.
Every time the examination was done, Su Bin appeared very calm, and he even wore a proud smile when facing Qin Zhenzhen.
After the examination, they had to wait a few days before the results were released.
Without the prying eyes of others, they could finally rx for a while.
On the day the rankings were to be announced, they woke up early.
Su Bin whispered to Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Darling, have you prepared the happiness money?¡±
In response, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°Are you so confident that you will be among the top scorers?¡±
Su Bin replied, ¡°This time is different. If I can make it to the top 10, I will need to spend some money. Don¡¯t you think I have a chance to make it to the top
He had decided to use the Best Performers as guarantors for the candidates so they could receive a monthly allowance.
Qin Zhenzhen showed him the money bag. ¡°It is ready!¡±
Su Bin felt overjoyed.
Qin Zhenzhen gazed at his face, which was clear and radiant when he was in a good mood. However, when he looked at her, she averted her eyes.
Before they could check the rankings, a loud shout echoed through the area.
¡°It¡¯s Su Bin again!¡±
¡°Su Bin ranked first, and he¡¯s the top scorer again!¡±
In response to the news, Qin Zhenzhen threw arge bag of money on the ground.
The candidates rushed forward, hoping to grab the bag, as it would be advantageous for them.
Su Bin found himself surrounded by examination candidates who asked him for tips.
Qin Zhenzhen and Fourth Brother waited patiently for a long while before Su
Bin finally emerged from the crowd..
Chapter 190 - 190: House in the Prefecture
Chapter 190: House in the Prefecture
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After the rankings were announced, the governor hosted another poetry recital, specifically for the Cultivated Talents of the year. The governor revealed the names of the Best Performers, and interestingly, only five of them managed to secure positions in the top ten of the institutional examination.
These top five performers received remarkable rewards. Not only did they receive a bonus from the governmental office, but they were also granted free admission to the prestigious prefectural school. Additionally, they were provided with a monthly living allowance. This meant that if they managed their expenses wisely, they wouldn¡¯t need to burden their families with the cost of studying in the abbey.
Among the Best Performers, Su Bin secured the first rank, which was an impressive achievement. He held the top position on the Double List, which entitled him to receive the highest bonus of 100 liang. Moreover, in the county, he was entitled to an additional 50 liang. His exceptional intelligence allowed him to earn money by being a top student in ancient times, and this was indeed a fortunate advantage.
Adding to Su Bin¡¯s resources, he had an additional 200 liang, thanks to a payment he received from that woman from brothel. Having 200 liang in his possession was no small sum.
Su Bin apanied Qin Zhenzhen as they inspected the house and provided helpful references. Eventually, when both of them were content with the choice, Qin Zhenzhen made up her mind to purchase the property.
To proceed with the purchase, Su Bin offered his money to Qin Zhenzhen and said, ¡°Use my money to buy the house.¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen disagreed with the idea and replied, ¡°You should keep your money for your studies.¡±
Su Bin exined, ¡°I am studying at the prefectural school, and I don¡¯t need to worry about tuition fees. Moreover, I receive a monthly allowance, so it won¡¯t burden me much.¡±
He also shared his n of not living in the academy but instead residing at home, which was conveniently close to the abbey. At the academy, two people typically shared one room, so living at home would provide a morefortable arrangement.
Although Qin Zhenzhen was aware that Su Bin would not return to the Marquis Mansion, she was still taken aback to learn about his decision to study in the academy.
Any college in the capital is better than the one here. Also, if you are the Young
Master of the Marquis Mansion. you are qualified to join the Roval College.¡±
¡°The teachers from the Royal College are all from the Hanlin Academy. Are you sure you don¡¯t want to study in the capital?¡±
Su Bin shook his head firmly, stating, ¡°Even if we make peace with them, I n to study in the prefectural school. I can waive the tuition fees and get subsidies. I don¡¯t need to owe anyone anything.¡±
Concerning the idea of putting on a show together, he pointed out the practicality of their separate living arrangements, asking, ¡°We live separately, how can we work together?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback, realizing that there must be a significant reason behind Su Bin¡¯s decision not to go to the capital to study.
Su Bin continued, reflecting on his father¡¯s advice, ¡°Even if you want to keep mepany in the capital, I will have to think about it. My father told me to work hard and make a name for myself, and I will bear that in mind.¡±
Curiosity still lingering, Qin Zhenzhen asked him about his brothers and sisters, questioning whether he would allow them to go to the capital.
Su Bin responded, ¡°I won¡¯t force them, but I think they will remember what father said.¡±
With that response, Qin Zhenzhen found herself unable to say anything more on the matter.
She had no intention of apanying Su Bin to the capital, firmly deciding against it. However, she still did not want to ept Su Bin¡¯s money. ¡°Then give your money to your brother and sister,¡± she suggested.
Upon hearing this, Su Bin¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Are you trying to get rid of me now?¡± he asked defensively.
Seeing his reaction, Qin Zhenzhen had to find apromise. ¡°Then we can share half,¡± she proposed, asking for 100 liang from Su Bin.
Although Su Bin did not ask for his name to be included on the house, Qin Zhenzhen added it anyway. As she was married into the Su Family, she couldn¡¯t open an ount to buy a house alone, nor could she put the house under her name. Her only options were to include her husband¡¯s name or her mother¡¯s name.
Since she needed to make use of Su Bin¡¯s identity, she couldn¡¯t argue with him on this matter. She understood that Su Bin insisted on paying because he didn¡¯t insist on having his name on the house. However, she couldn¡¯t fullyprehend his true intentions..
Chapter 191 - 191: Jealous
Chapter 191: Jealous
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Houses in the prefecture were pricier than those in the county but significantly cheaper than those in the capital.
They purchased a spacious house with about 200 square meters and paid 200 liang for it.
The property was rtively new, boasting arge yard and eight rooms, with a vegetable field behind it.
Both Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin were delighted with the purchase. The house provided ample space and came at a reasonable price.
Su Bin was particrly pleased because he now lived closer to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s residence and saw an opportunity to develop a deeper connection with her.
After acquiring the house, they decided to furnish it and carry out some necessary repairs.
With the assistance of Chen Youwei and the governor, they managed to secure some guards to help with the renovations.
Qin Zhenzhen treated the guards well, showcasing her culinary skills by preparing delicious and innovative dishes for them.
The guards appreciated her hospitality and often returned to enjoy her food while offering their help in return.
Once the house was settled, it was time for Su Bin to register at the prefectural school, with Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong apanying him as usual.
Due to Su Bin¡¯s outstanding performance in two examinations, he gained widespread recognition among the students at the prefectural school. Many of them approached him with enthusiasm, some even attempting to tter him.
They conversed with Su Bin as if he were already a high-ranking official, hoping that befriending him would secure their prospects in the future.
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback by the snobbish behavior of some schrs in ancient times.
Despite encountering such attitudes, the registration process went smoothly, taking only half a day toplete.
As they were about to leave the school, they ran into Wang Yizhi, who had be a Cultivated Talent the year before but was not among the Best Performers. He had spent two years studying at the prefectural school, which must have put a significant financial strain on his family.
His entire family made sacrifices, tightening their belts and saving money to cover his tuition and living expenses. His wife, Su Lan, worked hard embroidering at night in an attempt to save a few more coins, but their efforts seemed to go in vain.
Wang Yizhi was enrolling for another year of study at the prefectural school, with the goal of eventually taking the province examination every three years to be a Rmended Man.
The title of ¡°Old Master¡± would be bestowed upon him after bing a Rmended Man, allowing him the privilege to donate money to the governmental office.
In the original book, Wang Yizhi ended up as thest-ranked Rmended Man and participated in the imperial examination the following year, where he fell behind Sun Shan.
Recognizing hisck of talent, Wang Yizhi¡¯s wealthy father-inw decided to help him by donating money to secure a title of County Magistrate.
Having no personal wealth, Wang Yizhi was often mistreated by his unattractive and overweight wife. Once he became County Magistrate, he was eager to regain his status and began umting money through corrupt practices.
However, when Su Bin obtained power, he effortlessly exposed Wang Yizhi¡¯s corruption and openly executed him. Furthermore, he exiled Wang Yizhi¡¯s entire family to a cold and remote location, where they tragically perished one after another during the journey.
Prior to these events, Wang Yizhi had learned from fellow vigers about Su Bin¡¯s impressive achievement, winning first ce in the double rankings and earning a substantial bonus.
Seeing Su Bin now, Wang Yizhi couldn¡¯t help but feel envious and resentful.
He envied Su Bin¡¯s talent and the benefits that came with it, such as the bonus and the ability to study without financial burdens. If he had ranked at the top, he would have enjoyed simr advantages and avoided marrying the unkind and deceitful woman.
Driven by his frustration, Wang Yizhi¡¯s wife falsely threatened him with harm if he didn¡¯t divorce her. In his attempt to stage a y to prove her wrong, he ended up damaging his reputation severely.
The fat woman was willing to give him money, but she could not serve him well. She only needed him to serve her at night..
Chapter 192 - 192: Not Giving Me Face
Chapter 192: Not Giving Me Face
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Wang Yizhi couldn¡¯t help but feel jealous of Su Bin, who had married such a capable wife. Initially, he had perceived her as unintelligent and overweight, but now she had transformed into a slimmer and more attractive woman. What made her even more remarkable was that she was the sessor of the prestigious Jiang Family in the capital. She possessed exceptional culinary and medical skills, and she had a keen ability to make money.
Su Bin, once arrogant and full of himself, had fallen for her after being ignored for a while. Despite his past behavior, she treated him like a treasure and harbored no grudges. As a result, Su Bin¡¯s life was continuously improving, while Wang Yizhi¡¯s life seemed to be heading downhill.
Wang Yizhi couldn¡¯t help but resent the apparent injustice of fate. He believed that he was just as good-looking as Su Bin, and while he might have been slightly less talented, he couldn¡¯t understand why he wasn¡¯t as fortunate as Su Bin.
Initially, he had intended to walk past them without acknowledging them, but he recalled what his partner at home, whom he unkindly referred to as the ¡°ugly woman,¡± had said. So, he decided to greet them instead.
¡°Brother Su Bin, congrattions on your sess,¡± Wang Yizhi offered.
Su Bin nced at Wang Yizhi with disdain and decided to ignore himpletely. He didn¡¯t even bother responding, feeling extremely unlucky to have encountered him at that moment.
Wang Yizhi, however, persisted, ¡°Don¡¯t be like this. Your sister and I are divorced peacefully, but I am still Xiaoyu¡¯s father, and we are going to be in each other¡¯s lives. I don¡¯t see a reason for our families to be enemies.¡± Su Bin retorted coldly, ¡°Good dogs don¡¯t block the way, got it?¡±
The nearby schrs all turned their attention to the unfolding scene with curiosity.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s face flushed repeatedly with embarrassment. He had to step aside but couldn¡¯t resist turning to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Third Sister-inw¡¡±
¡°Stop it! We are not rted anymore, and I am not your Third Sister-inw!¡± Qin Zhenzhen cut him off mercilessly.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°Darling, don¡¯t pay any attention to a mad dog like him. Let¡¯s just ignore him.¡±
He attempted to lead Qin Zhenzhen away from the awkward situation.
However, Su Bin¡¯s remark didn¡¯t go unnoticed, and many people heard it.
Wang Yizhi wished he could disappear into a hole in the ground out of shame.
Nevertheless, he mustered the courage to persist with his mission. ¡°Miss Qin, I heard that you have excellent medical skills. My wife would like you to take a look at her, and we can discuss payment.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was intrigued. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with your wife? You just got
divorced, and you already have a new bride?¡±
¡°Did they start seeing each other before the divorce?¡±
¡°You knew what to do, huh!¡±
¡°We asked too littlepensation!¡±
As the situation became more interesting, more and more schrs gathered around, eager to witness the unfolding drama.
Those who were aware of Su Bin and Wang Yizhi¡¯s rtionship and the incident began to exchange hushed whispers with their friends.
As the schrs learned about the situation, they started looking at Wang Yizhi with disdain.
At that moment, Wang Yizhi finally realized how foolish he had been. He shouldn¡¯t have brought up this matter at such an inappropriate time. However, he couldn¡¯t entirely me himself.
It was his ugly wife who insisted on having Qin Zhenzhene and see her after learning about her status as the sessor of the Jiang Family in the capital and her reputation for curing the governor¡¯s mother. She believed that Qin Zhenzhen would have a solution to her inability to conceive, despite being with him for so long.
Wang Yizhiter discovered that his wife had not only been with one man, but she had never been able to conceive despite seeking private consultations with several doctors and trying various medications.
Feeling anxious, she believed it was her own fault and desperately sought out a skilled physician. Hence, she forced Wang Yizhi to find Qin Zhenzhen.
However, Wang Yizhi failed to locate her initially. He heard rumors that Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin had purchased a house in the prefecture, but he had no idea where they currently resided. When they unexpectedly encountered each other today, he saw it as an opportunity not to be missed.
Unfortunately, Wang Yizhi had not anticipated that both Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen would be so ruthless and unsympathetic towards him in the
situation..
Chapter 193 - 193: Good News
Chapter 193: Good News
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Wang Yizhi¡¯s regret had transformed into deep-seated hatred as he left without uttering another word.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t hold back and shouted after him, ¡°Hey, if your wife is sick, find another doctor immediately. She needs proper treatment, not dys.¡±
¡°If it happens to be a chronic ailment and you still wish to consult me, we can wait a little longer.¡±
¡°In fact, I have ns to open a health center in the prefecture soon, and I would be d to have you visit and seek my advice!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had no intention of being a saint. She decided to create an advertisement to spread the word about her uing health center.
If Wang Yizhi dared to bring his new wife for treatment, she even considered extracting some money from him to teach them a lesson on behalf of Su Lan.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but admire Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cleverness. He knew that she didn¡¯t say those words to Wang Yizhi without a purpose.
He couldn¡¯t help but think that Qin Zhenzhen was just as cunning and scheming as he was.
Afterpleting the registration, Qin Zhenzhen and herpanions returned to Dahe Town a few days after starting school.
Their first stop was the Qin Family Vige, as they needed to pass by it on their way back to Dahe Town.
This visit marked Su Bin¡¯s first time at the Qin Family, and he had thoughtfully prepared some gifts for the asion.
Upon their arrival, Su Bin called out to his father-inw and mother-inw.
Ms. Yang couldn¡¯t help but smile, observing Su Bin¡¯s respectful behavior. Her heart swelled with happiness knowing that her daughter had found a worthy partner in him.
Grandma Qin had already informed her sons about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s true identity as the sessor of the Jiang Family and the challenges the Qin Family was facing. The attack by the mysterious men in ck in Qian Vige was revealed to be orchestrated by the Jiang Family in the capital.
This revtion made Ms. Yang and the others understand why Zhenzhen had concealed her true abilities. To avoid furtherplications, Grandma Qin imed that she was the one who taught Qin Zhenzhen.
To spare them any unnecessary details, they decided not to disclose Su Bin¡¯s background to the family.
Ms. Yang persistently invited her daughter and son-inw to stay for dinner, but Qin Zhenzhen gently declined, saying, ¡°Mom, Su Bin¡¯s brothers and sisters are eagerly waiting to celebrate his sess.¡±
¡°Also, we don¡¯t know if he has fully recovered. We should have him checked up to ensure his well-being. After all, he got injured because of us.¡±
¡°We¡¯re just passing by. We¡¯ll be here early in the morning before we officially return to our mother¡¯s home.¡±
Ms. Yang didn¡¯t insist any further and walked them to the intersection.
Back at Qian Vige, they were recognized from a distance, and the news quickly spread to the Su Family.
¡°Su Lan,e out and take a look! Your brother and sister-inw are home!¡± ¡°Su Ning, your Third Brother and Third Sister-inw have returned!¡±
Su Ning, who was in the middle of cooking, hurriedly rushed out to see them. Excitement filled her face as she ran towards her Third Brother and Third Sister-inw.
¡°Third Brother, Third Sister-inw, you¡¯re back! We¡¯ve been eagerly waiting for you toe home every day!¡±
¡°Third Brother, there¡¯s great news from the town! They say you¡¯ve be a
Cultivated Talent and ranked first on the Double List!¡±
Then Su Ning turned to Qin Zhenzhen with awe in her eyes.
¡°Third Sister-inw, we also heard that you¡¯re the sessor of the Jiang Family in the capital and exceptionally skilled in cooking and medicine! I want to be your disciple and learn from you! Are you going to ept me?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled warmly. ¡°Of course! I remember promising youst time that as long as you¡¯re willing to learn, I¡¯ll be more than happy to teach you.¡± Su Ning gleefully waved her hands at Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°I knew you¡¯re the best!¡±
Feeling a bit neglected by Qin Zhenzhen and her sister, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but suggest, ¡°Darling, let¡¯s continue our conversation at home.¡±
¡°Third Brother, what were you saying just now?¡± Su Ning asked in surprise.
Then she nced at her Third Brother and Third Sister-inw, who seemed perfectly fine. Realizing the situation, she burst intoughter and hurried back home.
She couldn¡¯t wait to share the wonderful news with her family!
Chapter 194 - 194: Beautiful
Chapter 194: Beautiful
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Lan and the others had already gathered at the gate, eagerly awaiting Su Ning¡¯s return. When they saw her approaching with a beaming smile, their curiosity was piqued, and they couldn¡¯t help but wonder what had happened.
Excitedly, Su Ning spoke up, ¡°Guess what? I overheard Third Brother calling Third Sister-inw ¡®darling¡¯!¡±
Her yful imitation of their exchange drewughter from the group, but some still found it hard to believe.
Doubtful, Su Lan pulled Su Ning aside, her face glowing with happiness. ¡°Are you absolutely certain? Could you have misheard?¡±
With a firm nod, Su Ning replied, ¡°I¡¯m positive! I heard it crystal clear. The way Third Brother and Third Sister-inw interacted, it was undeniable. And look at all the things Third Brother was carrying! He¡¯s taking care of Third Sister-inw so well, making sure she doesn¡¯t carry a heavy load.¡±
Su Ning was right. While Qin Zhenzhen had empty hands, Su Bin had a bag on his back and was loaded with items, many of which were gifts from Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s family.
Ms. Yang, showing her affection through gifts, had bought pork, sausages, and smoked meat like they were going out of style. There were also snacks like beef jerky, especially for Su Lan¡¯s daughter.
This sight made Su Bin feel a bit embarrassed. He wanted to demonstrate his thoughtfulness towards Qin Zhenzhen, hence the heavy load.
Ms. Yang, observing this disy of affection, whispered to Qin Zhenzhen,
¡°Never mention divorce again. It¡¯s not easy to find such a considerate husband.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in agreement, ¡°You¡¯re right. I understand now.¡±
As they witnessed the scene unfolding before them, Su Lan and the others couldn¡¯t help but recognize the unique bond between Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen. They weren¡¯t just close; there was an obvious depth to their rtionship, something special that they seemed to be discussing quietly amongst themselves.
Su Lan yfully scolded Su Ning, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you get anything for your Third Brother?¡±
With a smile, Su Ning replied, ¡°I was so thrilled about the good news that I hurried back to share it with all of you!¡±
As they chatted, Su Lan took the initiative to greet Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen, saying, ¡°Wee back, Third Sister-inw, Third Brother! We¡¯ve been eagerly awaiting your return every day!¡±
¡°Hello, Third Brother! Hi, Third Sister-inw!¡±
¡°Great to see you both!¡±
Su Bin¡¯s brothers and sisters warmly weed them, and they took the bags from Su Bin¡¯s hands.
¡°Third Brother, hand these over to us.¡± ¡°Why did you buy so many things?¡±
¡°Is that smoked meat I smell?¡±
Su Bin exined, ¡°Most of these were given to us by Third Sister-inw¡¯s family.¡±
Su Ping patted Su Bin¡¯s shoulders and asked teasingly, ¡°Are you heading back to your mother-inw¡¯s ce?¡±
¡°I st0DDed bv there on the wav back.¡±
Although Su Bin said it casually, his brothers and sisters couldn¡¯t hide their happiness. They were all thrilled to see the improved rtionship between him and Qin Zhenzhen, especially evident from his visit to her mother-inw¡¯s home.
Amid the cheerful atmosphere, Su Lan couldn¡¯t help but wonder if her brother and Qin Zhenzhen had taken their rtionship to the next level. She teasingly thought they must have consummated the marriage, making her excited to be an aunt soon.
Noticing Su Lan¡¯s curious gaze, Qin Zhenzhen yfully remarked, ¡°Sister, do I have flowers on my face? Why are you staring at me like that?¡±
Amused, Su Lan replied, ¡°No flowers on your face, but you look as lovely as a blooming flower.¡±
Su Bin joined in, generously praising Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°You¡¯re right, sister. My wife is bing more beautiful with each passing day.¡±
The group beamed with joy, and even the vigers nearby shared in their happiness,menting, ¡°Indeed, they both make a gorgeous couple.. It¡¯s like they were destined to be together!¡±
Chapter 195 - 195: Cultivated Talent
Chapter 195: Cultivated Talent
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The vigers were all feeling emotional. They had not expected Su Bin¡¯s attitude towards his wife to change so drastically.
Before Su Bin became a Cultivated Talent, he used to ignore his wife, refusing to go home or share a room with her. However, after achieving his Cultivated Talent status, he seemed to grow even more arrogant, yet surprisingly, he started epting his wife.
Qin Zhenzhen was indeed a wife who brought fortune to the family, and Su Bin believed that too. Otherwise, why would he have a sudden change of heart?
There was another intriguing reason¡ªthe rumor that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s grandma was from the prestigious Jiang Family in the capital, and she had passed down all her exceptional skills to Qin Zhenzhen. Many believed it to be true.
This fueled the notion that Su Bin had be a snob.
However, the vigers were merely specting and refrained from speaking such thoughts aloud.
Qin Zhenzhen, on the other hand, couldn¡¯t bear it any longer. Her face flushed with frustration as she red at Su Bin. ¡°How can you say that?¡±
She had intended to caution him not to overy the act, but with so many people around, she held her tongue.
Sensing her difort, Su Lan stepped in and pulled Qin Zhenzhen into the room. ¡°Third Sister-inw, you must be tired after such a long trip. Go back to your room and take a rest.¡±
The dinner was quite sumptuous, featuring a spread of pork, chicken, and wine.
Su Lan graciously assisted Grandma, who was moved to tears by the asion. She tightly grasped Su Bin¡¯s hands, urging him, ¡°You have to treat your wife well!¡±
Su Bin nodded earnestly and replied, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Grandma, I will definitely treat her well.¡±
Grandma, with warmth in her eyes, took hold of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hands, expressing her gratitude, ¡°Thank you for saving this family, my good granddaughter-inw!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen tried to downy the praise, saying, ¡°Grandma, you are exaggerating¡¡±
Grandma insisted with certainty, ¡°Grandma might be blind, but she is not deaf. She heard what the vigers said. It¡¯s all because of you that the Su Family is thriving, and Su Bin has achieved Cultivated Talent status!¡±
¡°Youe from a noble family, yet you don¡¯t even look down on Su Bin¡¡±
Feeling somewhat embarrassed by the continuedpliments, Qin Zhenzhen modestly responded, ¡°Grandma, please don¡¯t say that. It is my honor to be part of the Su Family. My husband is immensely talented, and I believe he will soon rank at the top of the list. I have no right to look down on him.¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but smile, clearly pleased with his wife¡¯s response.
Grandma looked proud and beamed with joy. ¡°Of course, Su Bin is a very good child too.¡±
Su Lan chimed in with a smile, ¡°Enough talk about who is better. In my opinion, Third Brother and Third Sister-inw are a perfect match, just like a golden couple. They are truly made for each other!¡±
Herment broughtughter and agreement from everyone present.
¡°You¡¯re absolutely right!¡±
The entire family celebrated Su Bin¡¯s remarkable achievement of bing a Cultivated Talent.
During their one-month stay in the prefecture, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin were happily settling in. Before the meal, Su Qing caught Qin Zhenzhen up on what had happened in the past month.
They had sessfully cultivated arge field of yams, and with their sister¡¯s help, they were nearly finished with the digging. Their next step was to organize the entire hill and n for nting yam beans in theing spring.
Due to his Second Brother¡¯s injury, Su Qing had entrusted the task of purchasing yams to him. Surprisingly, despite being usually hot-tempered, Second Brother handled everything in an orderly manner. Not only did he ensure strict quality checks, but he also meticulously recorded the numbers. During this period, they sessfully delivered the goods to the county three times. After the initial trip with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s Elder Brother, Su Qing handled the subsequent deliveries single-handedly.
The owner of the pharmacy proved to be a genuinely pleasant individual. He promptly paid for the goods during the first visit, and they only had to dip into the capital left by Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen on one asion..
Chapter 196 - 196: Mountain Climbing
Chapter 196: Mountain Climbing
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen approached Su Ping to inquire about his injuries.
¡°Su Ping, how are your injuries? Are you feeling better?¡± she asked with concern.
Su Ping smiled happily and replied, ¡°I should be fully recovered within half a month. Thanks to the powder you gave me, Third Sister-inw.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had sun-dried Mbar plum and ground it into a powder, which she then mixed with some spiritual water. This concoction proved to be effective in stopping bleeding and reducing inmmation, exining why Su Ping¡¯s wounds were healing so quickly.
The next day, Su Lan and the rest of the family went into the mountains as they usually did, presumably to gather yams. Su Qing, who had undergone some positive changes in the past month, insisted on joining them instead of staying at home. He had taken on more responsibilities, supporting his Elder Sister in managing the household and embracing the role of the eldest son.
Qin Zhenzhen found it amazing that even Su Ping had changed for the better. It made her believe that the storyline in the book could be altered more easily than she had thought. Perhaps she shouldn¡¯t dwell on the idea of divorcing Su Bin after all.
During this period, she noticed that Su Bin seemed to be flirting with her, which stirred some emotions within her. She acknowledged that he had the ability to touch her heart, but she also wondered if he would remain virtuous and true to his values in the future. If he did, she might consider epting his advances, but she realized it was premature to entertain such thoughts.
Shaking herself from her musings, Qin Zhenzhen decided to visit the mountains, inspect the slopes, and engage in some physical activity by climbing them to break a sweat.
As Qin Zhenzhen prepared to climb the mountain, she thought about how the spiritual water she had obtained could potentially aid in her weight loss journey. Seeing her determination, Su Bin felt motivated to join her on the climb.
Teasingly, Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°Don¡¯t tire yourself out and then expect your
Second Brother to carry you home if you get leg cramps.¡±
In her eyes, Su Bin was merely a weak schr, and she didn¡¯t think he would be able to keep up.
Unconvinced, Su Bin retorted, ¡°Do you dare topete with me in mountain climbing?¡±
Refusing to back down, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°Sure, what¡¯s the bet?¡± After pondering for a moment, Su Bin proposed, ¡°Whoever loses will agree to one request from the winner.¡±
¡°Okay, deal!¡± Qin Zhenzhen agreed, confident in her ability to outperform Su Bin, whom she considered a weak schr.
Su Lan and the others watched with amusement, treating it as a friendlypetition. They decided to let the two climb first while they acted as judges. As they reached the base of the mountain, Qin Zhenzhen suggested, ¡°You can lead the way.¡±
But Su Bin refused, insisting, ¡°We¡¯ll start thepetition at the same time.¡±
Reluctantly, Qin Zhenzhen took the lead, with Su Bin following closely behind.
Surprisingly, they both climbed at an impressive pace, leaving Su Lan and the others behind.
Looking back at Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen felt perplexed. She had underestimated him, assuming he was a weak and inexperienced young man who never engaged in physicalbor. Yet, his performance on the climb contradicted her preconceived notions.
As Qin Zhenzhen quickened her pace, expecting to easily outpace Su Bin, she was surprised to find that he was still following them.
Determined not to be beaten by what she considered a weak schr, Qin
Zhenzhen increased her speed even more.
After a while, Su Bin couldn¡¯t keep up and fell behind.
Approaching their yam field, Qin Zhenzhen looked back proudly, seeing him still chasing after her. She couldn¡¯t help butugh.
¡°You¡¯ve already lost, no need to exert so much energy. It would be troublesome if you fall!¡± she teased.
However, as soon as she finished speaking, she heard a sudden ¡°Ah¡¡± followed by the sound of Su Bin tumbling into the bushes.
¡°Are you okay?¡± Qin Zhenzhen called out, concerned.
¡°Ah¡¡± It sounded as if Su Bin had rolled into a ditch.
From her angle, she couldn¡¯t see Su Bin clearly, but she noticed something rolling into a ravine, causing the branches to rustle..
Chapter 197 - 197: Trick
Chapter 197: Trick
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Su Bin, how are you?¡±
Without hesitation, Qin Zhenzhen rushed back to save Su Bin when she heard his response.
¡°I am fine¡¡± Su Bin replied, but his tone betrayed his true condition ¨C he didn¡¯t sound fine at all.
Qin Zhenzhen became even more worried.
Upon reaching the spot where Su Bin¡¯s ident had urred, she couldn¡¯t find him. Instead, she only saw traces of something rolling into a nearby ravine. Her heart skipped a beat as she asked, ¡°Su Bin, did you fall into the ditch?¡± With concern in her eyes, she carefully went down to check.
¡°I didn¡¯t fall into the ditch, I am here!¡± came Su Bin¡¯s voice from above.
To her surprise, Qin Zhenzhen felt her anger rise as she realized that Su Bin had set her up!
He had pretended to fall into the ditch, tricking her into turning around. Then, he had hidden in the bushes by the roadside and waited for her to pass before rejoining her.
Qin Zhenzhen heard the sound of something rolling down ¨C it turned out to be Su Bin, pushing a huge rock down!
Fuming with anger, she eximed, ¡°Using such underhanded methods is unfair!¡±
With a smirk, Su Bin replied, ¡°All is fair in war!¡±
Internally, Qin Zhenzhen cursed at the viinous move ¨C he was skilled at taking advantage of people¡¯s weaknesses. She realized that her own kindness had yed right into his hands!
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯spetitive spirit refused to ept defeat, and she chased after Su Bin with all her might.
Su Bin, well-versed in the art of trickery, was equally determined not to admit defeat. He gave his best effort to stay ahead.
They soon arrived at the yam field, with Su Bin managing to reach first, closely followed by Qin Zhenzhen, only a few feet behind.
Frustration mounting, Qin Zhenzhen copsed onto the ground, and to her dismay, Su Bin did the same.
Annoyed by their proximity, she scooted away, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t sit so close to me!¡±
Su Bin asked, ¡°Are you angry?
Her pride wouldn¡¯t allow her to admit it, so she retorted, ¡°Who¡¯s mad? I don¡¯t need to be mad at people like you!¡±
He noticed her smile and prodded, ¡°You¡¯re smiling, so you¡¯re not angry?¡±
Refusing to give in, she snapped back, ¡°Who said that? Stop talking nonsense!¡±
Internally, Qin Zhenzhen felt irritated by her own childish behavior. She considered herself a mature girl who shouldn¡¯t act this way.
Trying to cate her, Su Bin said, ¡°Don¡¯t be mad. Thepetition doesn¡¯t really count, right?¡±
Though she wanted to remain silent, her pride made her snort in response, not wanting to say a word.
Attempting to calm her down further, Su Bin offered, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s break the rules. You can be the winner, how about that?¡±
At that moment, Qin Zhenzhen had wanted to dere herself the winner all along!
But Su Bin added, ¡°I did not want to trick you, but I was worried that you would win, so I made one request that I could not do.¡¯
Upon hearing this, Qin Zhenzhen looked at him with a deep gaze. ¡°What are you worried about?¡±
Su Bin didn¡¯t provide a direct answer but instead smiled and said, ¡°You fell into the trap, which means that you are worried about me.¡±
Thisment reignited Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s annoyance towards Su Bin. However, her attention was quickly diverted when she spotted a young man digging yams near their home.
Someone had arrived so early to potentially steal their yams? The thought of such hical behavior infuriated her.
For a moment, Qin Zhenzhen forgot about arguing with Su Bin and pointed towards the young man, asking, ¡°Look at who is up there. Is he stealing our yams?¡±
Su Bin nced over and replied, ¡°It seems to be Brother Shanmin. What is he doing here?¡±
¡°Let¡¯s go up and take a look,¡± Qin Zhenzhen suggested.
Just as Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen were about to head up, Su Lan and the others arrived at the scene.
Su Ning, eager to know the oue of theirpetition, asked loudly, ¡°Third Brother, Third Sister-inw, which one of you arrived first and won?¡±
Su Bin, still smiling, chose not to answer.
Qin Zhenzhen found it difficult to respond as well, so she swiftly changed the subject. ¡°Look, who is that? Is he stealing our yams?¡±
Su Ning exined, ¡°He¡¯s not stealing. He¡¯s actually helping us dig the yams..¡±
Chapter 198 - 198: Su Lan ‘s New Love
Chapter 198: Su Lan ¡®s New Love
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin turned to Su Lan and inquired, ¡°Sister, when did Brother Shanmine back? Is he going back to the army?¡±
Su Lan blushed slightly before responding, ¡°His right foot is injured, and he limps a little. If he does farm work, it won¡¯t affect him much, but he can¡¯t stay in the military camp anymore.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found it curious ¨C was there a deeper connection between Su Lan and this mountain man? Otherwise, why would she blush when talking about him?
¡°You hired him?¡± Qin Zhenzhen asked.
Su Lan¡¯s face turned even redder as she replied, ¡°We didn¡¯t hire him. He volunteered to help.¡±
¡°He just came back from the military camp, and with thend being barren, there is no farm work for him to do. The yam fields in the mountains are already taken, but he still wanted to help us.¡±
Su Lan added, ¡°He is an orphan, and my father used to take care of him. Now, he¡¯s repaying the favor.¡±
¡°I told him several times not to help, but he wouldn¡¯t listen. He¡¯s here before us every day.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen finally grasped the situation.
Qian Shanmin, an orphan and a disabled man, had just returned from the military camp. However, instead of taking time to recuperate, he insisted on helping them dig yams.
Su Lan had rified that his feet didn¡¯t affect him much, indicating that she didn¡¯t discriminate against him because of his disability.
Moreover, Su Lan had blushed twice, suggesting that there might be a personal connection between them or something significant had recently happened.
Qin Zhenzhen decided to delve further into the matter. ¡°He was injured and came back from the military camp, so he is disabled. Shouldn¡¯t the governmental office provide somepensation for him?¡±
Su Lan nodded affirmatively. ¡°He mentioned that the governmental office gave him 300 liang at once. But even without that money, he wouldn¡¯t have starved. As you can see, he has already dug up a pile of yams, and he works just as efficiently as a healthy person.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen refrained from asking further and turned her attention to Su
Bin.
Su Bin responded calmly and approached Brother Shanmin.
¡°I¡¯ll have a chat with him.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen followed along and asked Su Bin in a hushed voice, ¡°How long has your brother been in the army?¡±
Su Bin informed her, ¡°It¡¯s been about five and a half years since he joined when he was 17 years old, the same year my sister got married.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded, now understanding the situation better.
Su Bin hesitated for a moment and shared a childhood memory with her.
¡°When we were young, Brother Shanmin was always helping us out and providing us with many benefits. He could go into the mountains to catch birds and fish in the water, and he generously shared most of his catch with our family. Of course, he also dined with us.¡±
¡°At that time, we all assumed that my sister would marry him, but my father arranged her engagement to someone else,¡± Su Bin exined.
¡°Our father has a preference for capable vigers, but deep down, he values schrs highly. He believes that schrs have the potential to be officials,¡± Su Bin added.
¡°But Wang Yizhi turned out to be a scoundrel! He nearly caused my sister¡¯s death!¡± Su Bin eximed, expressing his frustration.
Qin Zhenzhen now understood the situation clearly. ¡°I see! So there really was a story between them.¡±
¡°Do you think that he might have simr feelings if he sees his sister divorced?¡± Qin Zhenzhen inquired.
Su Bin replied, ¡°If you¡¯re willing to pursue a rtionship with him, I won¡¯t object.¡±
¡°But we can¡¯t be too direct about it. They have to express their feelings themselves,¡± Qin Zhenzhen remarked.
¡°I understand,¡± she added.
From the current circumstances, it seemed that both Su Lan and Qian Shanmin were on equal footing in life¡¯s difficulties. Su Lan had married someone and was raising a child, while Qian Shanmin had be disabled.
However, Qin Zhenzhen also recognized that Su Lan belonged to a higher social status as ady from the Marquis Mansion, making her seemingly out of Qian Shanmin¡¯s league..
Chapter 199 - 199: Depends
Chapter 199: Depends
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Brother Shanmin!¡± Su Bin¡¯s voice echoed through the surroundings as he eagerly called out to his old friend.
Before their arrival, Su Bin couldn¡¯t contain his excitement and shouted happily. It was evident that he had a close bond with the mountain man.
¡°Hey, Su Bin, it¡¯s you!¡± Qian Shanmin eximed when he spotted them, promptly setting aside whatever he was upied with.
He raised his voice, brimming with joy, ¡°Su Bin, you¡¯ve grown so much since west met a few years ago. You¡¯ve be quite the handsomed, and you even have a capable wife who¡¯s achieved such high rankings!¡±
¡°I¡¯ll be the host tonight; let¡¯s have a few drinks to celebrate!¡±
As Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen approached Qian Shanmin, it seemed that Su Lan was deliberately avoiding him and went to the other side to chat with her brother and sister.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but size up Qian Shanmin, noticing how he appeared darker and stronger than before. Su Bin attributed this to the rigorous training in the military camp.
Qin Zhenzhen observed that her husband was unusually happy, and she took the opportunity to introduce herself, ¡°This is my wife, Qin Zhenzhen.¡± Qian Shanmin greeted her with sincerity, ¡°Third Sister-inw.¡±
¡°Brother Shanmin,¡± Qin Zhenzhen echoed, addressing him warmly along with Su Bin.
Qian Shanmin smiled, seemingly epting Qin Zhenzhen as his genuine Third Sister-inw.
¡°I¡¯ve heard about your remarkable abilities and the good luck you¡¯ve brought to the Su Family.¡±
¡°I can only say that he¡¯s truly fortunate to have married you,¡± Qian Shanminplimented, acknowledging Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s positive influence.
¡°How about both of youe over to my ce for dinner?¡± Qin Zhenzhen responded with a smile, deferring to Su Bin¡¯s decision.
Su Bin humbly replied, ¡°He¡¯s just a Cultivated Talent. It¡¯s not a big deal. We already celebratedst night.¡±
Regretfully, Qian Shanmin expressed, ¡°I wasn¡¯t aware that you were backst night, or else I would have asked to join in the celebration.¡±
Feeling a bit ufortable, he hesitated before sharing more honestly with Su Bin, ¡°Actually, I wanted to go to your homest night, but your sister advised me not to.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback, not expecting such straightforwardness from Qian Shanmin.
No one had informed Su Bin that it was Su Lan¡¯s decision to keep Qian Shanmin away from the celebration. Su Lan wanted to avoid any potential gossip and, hence, steered clear of him.
Embarrassed, Su Bin smiled and defended his sister, ¡°She¡¯s overthinking things.¡±
However, Qian Shanmin continued to be forthright, saying, ¡°Actually, I wanted to talk to you about something over dinner.¡±
Curious, Su Bin encouraged him to speak his mind, ¡°You can ask now.¡±
Su Bin had an idea about what might be going on. Qian Shanmin remained as open and optimistic as ever, preferring to discuss matters face-to-face rather than keeping things inside and making others ufortable.
He appreciated Qian Shanmin¡¯s straightforward personality.
Qian Shanmin nced at Qin Zhenzhen and felt a bit embarrassed before proceeding. Su Bin assured him, ¡°Ask away. I won¡¯t hide anything from my wife.¡¯
Qian Shanmin chuckled, appreciating the openness, ¡°That¡¯s great! Then I will ask directly.¡±
He went on to exin his past feelings for Su Bin¡¯s sister, ¡°Many people in the vige knew that I wanted to marry your sister, but fate had other ns. I was so determined that I left for the army.¡±
¡°But life took a different turn. I got injured on the battlefield and became disabled, and your sister went through a divorce as well.¡±
¡°After careful consideration, I have decided to make a proposal to your sister.
Are you in favor or against it?¡±
Su Bin turned the question back to him, asking about his sister¡¯s reaction, ¡°What does my sister think about it? Actually, it depends on her. Our opinions can only be used as a reference..¡±
Chapter 200 - 200: Thick-skinned
Chapter 200: Thick-skinned
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qian Shanmin wore a bitter smile as he began to recount the conversation. ¡°Lan suggested that we should consider things carefully before making a decision, especially since you and your wife were away at the time.¡± ¡°But shortly afterward, she told me that we weren¡¯tpatible and that I deserved someone better.¡±
¡°I inquired if she was worried about my treatment of Jinn, but she assured me that she trusted me.¡±
¡°I asked her if she saw me as disabled, but she shook her head, saying she saw me as a healthy person.¡±
¡°When I questioned her about remarrying, she stated she had no intention of doing so.¡±
¡°Later, I discovered that your aunt went to speak with n, and she must have said something hurtful to him.¡±
¡°Apparently, your aunt wanted to introduce her niece to me.¡±
¡°I declined the offer, yet n still insists that she doesn¡¯t want to remarry.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but inquire, ¡°So, by helping with the yam digging every day, you¡¯re trying to win our sister¡¯s heart through your actions?¡±
Qian Shanmin responded, ¡°Not entirely. If Lan genuinely doesn¡¯t wish to remarry, I will respect her decision and never bring up the topic again.¡±
¡°But if there are any misunderstandings between us, I hope to do my best to dispel them.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t want to miss another chance, so I¡¯m seeking your assistance.¡±
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen fell into silence, uncertain if they should offer their help.
After all, their noble identities would soon be revealed, and they wondered how this revtion would impact their sister¡¯s choices.
Qian Shanmin feltpelled to exin further.
¡°I came here to help with yam digging because I have some free time, and I don¡¯t have any strenuous activities I can engage in due to my limp. Plus, I thought it would be a chance for n to see me in action. Despite my limp, it doesn¡¯t hinder my ability to work on the farm.¡±
¡°n was concerned about people gossiping, so I made sure to head into the mountains early, and I came down when there were more people around.¡± ¡°The other reason is that I wanted to lend a hand to your family. You know, when I was young, your father took care of me, and without his support, I might have starved to death.¡±
He was a straightforward man who believed in repaying favors, and above all, he had always harbored feelings for Su Lan.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but offer encouragement. ¡°You¡¯re very brave. If there were any misunderstandings, you could have exined the truth to them directly. There was no need to fabricate stories.¡±
Upon hearing her words, Qian Shanmin seemed to regain his confidence.
¡°I know what to do,¡± Qian Shanmin asserted.
Ms. Lin arrived with a girl who had pockmarks on her face. She warmly greeted Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen before turning to Qian Shanmin.
¡°Mountain dweller, just as I thought! You¡¯re a good young man who knows how to repay kindness! The Su Family took care of you when you were young, and you¡¯ve always wanted to repay their kindness.¡±
¡°Feng and I are here to help too.¡±
¡°You¡¯re strong, so you¡¯ll be in charge of digging. Feng will assist you with the yams.¡±
¡°What¡¯s that saying? ¡®Working together, men and women can aplish anything¡¯! ¡±
¡°Hahaha, Feng,e and help your brother!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s loud voice caught the attention of the vigers, and they all understood what she was trying to do.
She knew that Qian Shanmin had 300 liang in his possession, and she was also aware that his limp didn¡¯t hinder his farm work. So, she intended to introduce her unmarried niece to Qian Shanmin.
It was rumored that Ms. Lin was persistently trying to set them up as a couple, even after Qian Shanmin had turned down the idea.
However, many vigers knew that Qian Shanmin only had eyes for Su Lan, and they were curious to see how he would handle the situation.
Qin Zhenzhen was at a loss for words. She found Ms. Lin¡¯s actions shameless and inappropriate..
Chapter 201 - 201: Ms. Lin’s Beaten
Chapter 201: Ms. Lin¡¯s Beaten
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin vehemently rejected watching the show, asking Qin Zhenzhen to leave instead.
¡°Darling, let¡¯s go to my sister,¡± he suggested.
¡°Okay,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied, clearly not interested in the show either.
The couple turned around and left, paying no attention to the people around them.
Meanwhile, Feng, feeling shy, nced at Qian Shanmin but didn¡¯t dare to approach him.
Ms. Lin, noticing Feng¡¯s hesitation, pulled her forward and said, ¡°What are you shy about? It¡¯s not the first time we¡¯ve met. Just ask Brother Shanmin if you have any questions!¡±
However, Qian Shanmin remained silent. He stopped digging and turned around, following Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen to where Su Lan was.
He couldn¡¯t help but recall a past encounter when Ms. Lin had tried to force Feng onto him, iming that she should be his wife. Qian Shanmin had firmly declined, stating that he and Feng didn¡¯t have any romantic interest in each other.
Despite his rejection, Ms. Lin persisted and resorted to badmouthing Su Lan. She portrayed her as a divorced woman who had done something wrong, leading to her husband¡¯s family rejecting her. Ms. Lin even criticized the idea of raising children for free, trying to convince Qian Shanmin that Feng was a better choice because of her perceived diligence and virtue, because second-hand goods were not as good as virgin girls.
Angry and fed up, Qian Shanmin had eventually pushed them out of the door in the past, hoping they would leave him alone. However, today¡¯s encounter seemed even more ridiculous, with Ms. Lin raising her voice to publicly spread gossip about the situation.
Given their shameless behavior, Qian Shanmin decided that he didn¡¯t need to worry about them being humiliated, as they brought it upon themselves.
Ms. Lin grew visibly annoyed as she pointed at Qian Shanmin and snapped, ¡°What do you mean? I introduced you to my niece out of kindness, and you are treating me like this?¡±
Qian Shanmin turned around and replied coldly, ¡°I am handicapped, but I don¡¯t need your pity! If you think that I have not made myself clear before, then I will repeat myself ¨C your niece and I are not a good match. She is not my type!¡±
The vigers watching the show couldn¡¯t help butugh, finding the situation rather amusing.
Ms. Lin made hurtful remarks, and Feng didn¡¯t seem to be particrly intelligent either. She expressed that she wasn¡¯t a suitable match, yet still appeared to seek humiliation.
Even if she couldn¡¯t find a partner, there was no need for her to destroy herself.
Ms. Lin¡¯s irritation grew. ¡°You¡¯re a cripple! You don¡¯t deserve to find a wife!¡± Qian Shanmin stopped and chose to ignore Ms. Lin.
He understood that engaging with her would only fuel her animosity.
However, Ms. Lin became even more determined to provoke him.
¡°You don¡¯t want a pure girl; instead, you prefer someone who¡¯s been divorced, a piece of trash!¡±
¡°Perhaps her marriage wasplicated, leading to her divorce by her husband¡¯s family¡¡¯
This was a personal attack on Su Lan.
Qian Shanmin couldn¡¯t bear it any longer. He turned around and rushed toward Ms. Lin.
Ms. Lin looked up fearlessly. ¡°Are you trying to hit me? Do you dare?¡±
Qian Shanmin was an orphan, with no remaining rtives, whereas Ms. Lin¡¯s family was prosperous, and even the vige chief worked for them.
If Qian Shanmin were to hit her, he would face severe punishment ording to the vige rules. However, Ms. Lin¡¯s words were so hurtful that he couldn¡¯t bear it anymore. He raised his hands and delivered two tight ps to Ms. Lin¡¯s face.
Ms. Lin felt dizzy, and her face swelled up from the impact.
¡°You cripple! How dare you hit me!¡± she shouted,ing back to her senses andunching herself at Qian Shanmin, attempting to retaliate fiercely.
Drawing from what he had learned during his time at the military camp, Qian Shanmin managed to push Ms. Lin to the ground, subduing her.
With a fierce warning, he told her, ¡°If you dare to repeat what you said just now, I won¡¯t hesitate to take more drastic action!¡±
Feng wag left in shock witnessing the intense altercation
Chapter 202 - 202: Hitting
Chapter 202: Hitting
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Ms.Lin did not restrain herself after being warned by Qian Shanmin. Instead, she threw herself onto the ground and started to cry.
¡°The cripple hit us!¡±
¡°The cripple is going to kill us!¡±
¡°The cripple wants to kill me!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s husband, Qian Dashan, and her son, Qian Erhu, were nearby when they heard her scream, prompting them to rush over to her aid.
Upon hearing themotion, some curious vigers, unaware of the situation, also gathered to see what was happening.
When they reached the scene, they found Ms. Lin lying on the ground, in distress and tears. There were signs of blood on her face and hands, likely from encountering tree roots and thorns.
Feng, attempting to help her up, struggled as she seemed to resist his assistance.
It was known that Ms. Lin had a strong-willed personality and did not want to be perceived as weak or easily defeated. Fearing that she might face a physical altercation, she deliberately caused injuries to herself.
If there was blood, the vigers would side with her.
Qian Dashan and his son rushed to help Ms. Lin get back on her feet.
¡°Stop crying! What happened?¡± Qian Dashan asked with concern.
Through her tears, Ms. Lin managed to exin, ¡°I thought that since we¡¯re rtives, and the Su Family still has many yams to dig, I went to their home with Feng to offer some help.¡±
¡°I never expected that the disgruntled neighbor would show up so early, and we had already dug out a lot of yams! Everything was going fine until he started insulting us, saying we were an eyesore to him!¡±
¡°I refused to leave, so we got into an argument.¡±
¡°Then, he got physical with me. He pushed me to the ground and started punching and kicking me. Just look at my swollen face, and my hands and feet are bleeding!¡±
Upon hearing Ms. Lin¡¯s ount, Qian Dashan¡¯s anger intensified, and both he and his son were ready to confront Qian Shan.
¡°You think you can go around hitting people just because you¡¯re limping? Don¡¯t think I won¡¯t scold you just because of that!¡± Qian Dashan shouted, seething with rage.
Qian Shanmin was infuriated by the usation but managed to contain his anger. He almostughed out of exasperation at the situation.
Meanwhile, Ms. Lin seemed to be twisting the truth to suit her narrative, and her husband and son were only adding fuel to the fire, eager to take her side.
Unfazed by the brewing confrontation, Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen returned to the scene. Realizing the gravity of the situation, they feltpelled to intervene.
Su Bin stepped in, trying to reason with Qian Shanmin, ¡°Brother Shanmin, let¡¯s not act impulsively. Fighting won¡¯t solve anything.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen added. ¡°If we fight, those who are reasonable will be unreasonable.¡±
Some of the vigers intervened, attempting to stop Qian Dashan and his son from confronting Qian Shan.
¡°You two are strong and you¡¯re bullying a handicapped man? That¡¯s not right!¡± one of the vigers spoke up.
Qian Dashan responded angrily, ¡°My wife is in this condition, and I can¡¯t just stand by while someone bullies her. Am I not a man?¡±
Another person interjected, ¡°Let¡¯s not jump to conclusions based on one person¡¯s ount. We need to find out the truth of what happened.¡±
Qian Dashan pointed at the man and scolded, ¡°How can you be so heartless? My wife is hurt, and the focus should be on the one who caused the harm, not on who got hurt!¡±
Su Bin spoke sternly, ¡°He¡¯s right. Those who resort to violence should face the consequences of their actions.¡±
Though he was tempted to retaliate for the hurtful words directed at his sister, Su Bin refrained from taking matters into his own hands.
Qian Dashan red at Su Bin, reminding him, ¡°Remember, I¡¯m your uncle! How dare you side with outsiders!¡±
Ms. Lin took advantage of the situation, adding, ¡°In his eyes, they are already family. Even before Su Lan got married, they were¡¡±
Unable to tolerate Ms. Lin¡¯s insinuations any longer, Qin Zhenzhen picked up a twig and gave her a light whip as a form of reprimand..
Chapter 203 - 203: Not Offending the Su Family
Chapter 203: Not Offending the Su Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s anger red, and she let out a curse. ¡°One more word of nonsense, and I¡¯ll silence your filthy mouth with a p!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s hand was raised, ready to strike, but before she could act, Qin Zhenzhen swiftly retaliated with another forceful blow.
Qian Dashan and Qian Erhu¡¯s expressions turned grim.
Recalling the traumatizing incident when in Zhenzhen had beaten her with a stick while attempting to steal the wild boar, Ms. Lin was filled with fear, hesitating to approach and ask for a beating herself.
Unable to control her emotions, Ms. Lin threw herself onto the ground, throwing a tantrum.
¡°I can¡¯t bear to live anymore. I want to die!¡±
¡°Marrying into this family has made me weak. I can¡¯t even defend myself when
I¡¯m being bullied¡¡¯ ¡°You¡¯re their uncle!¡±
¡°All of them are ungrateful!¡± ¡°Fetch the vige chief to seek justice!¡±
¡°Otherwise, I¡¯d rather die¡¡±
¡°I might as well put an end to it myself instead of being beaten to death¡¡± Ms. Lin¡¯s words served as a reminder to her husband.
Despite being unable to physically defeat Qin Zhenzhen, they still had the vige chief and the rules on their side!
Ms. Lin was determined to punish both Qian Shanmin and Qin Zhenzhen in ordance with the vige rules.
Upon hearing Ms. Lin¡¯s distress, Qian Dashan kicked his son and instructed him, ¡°Go fetch the vige chief immediately and inform him that someone¡¯s life is in danger!¡±
¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go right away!¡± Qian Erhu hurriedly rushed to call the vige chief. rmed by the news of someone¡¯s imminent demise, the vige chief swiftly made his way from another hill.
Upon witnessing Ms. Lin causing trouble once again, the vige chief couldn¡¯t help but inwardly curse her; she was such a troublesome woman! There was a saying that a troublesome wife would bring misfortune to three generations!
He wondered why she couldn¡¯t get along harmoniously with the Su Family. After all, the Su Family¡¯s status had drastically improved.
Su Bin had risen to the rank of Cultivated Talent, and Qin Zhenzhen had be the sessor of the prestigious Jiang Family in the capital. Her exceptional cooking skills had earned her fame and fortune.
The vige chief knew that shing with such influential individuals would only lead to trouble for Ms. Lin and her family.
They had hoped to strike it rich by associating with the Su Family, but Ms. Lin had severed all ties with them.
The vige chief felt the urge to leave as the yams required his attention, and he needed to dig them up before evening. However, with so many people watching, he couldn¡¯t ignore the problem at hand; otherwise, he risked being reported to the town.
He decided to address the issue promptly and avoid offending the influential Su Family.
¡°What happened?¡± the vige chief inquired, as Ms. Lin was assisted to sit on the ground by her husband.
Su Lan and others from the Su Family were present, along with an increasing number of curious vigers who had gathered to witness the unfolding drama.
¡°I was just trying to be kind¡¡± Ms. Lin attempted to exin but was interrupted by the vige chief. ¡°As the person involved, your words may be biased and could affect my judgment. We need to hear from an impartial bystander.¡± This remark promptedughter from the onlookers.
Ms. Lin¡¯s annoyance was evident, and her face had turned a shade of red resembling liver color.
However, she continued shamelessly, ¡°Let my niece tell you the whole story. She knows best. She is an honest girl and never lies!¡±
All eyes turned to Feng, but she was so frightened that she could barely speak coherently. ¡°I¡¡±
Ms. Lin red at her, urging, ¡°What are you afraid of? Just tell the truth!¡± The onlookers couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.
Feng Lian¡¯er blushed intensely, unable to utter a word. Sensing her distress, the vige chief decided not to press her further. ¡°Never mind, she seems too overwhelmed to speak. Let¡¯s not make things difficult for her.¡±
He then turned to Qin Zhenzhen and asked, ¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife, did you witness what happened just now?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded, affirming, ¡°I saw the entire incident..¡±
Chapter 204 - 204: National Hero
Chapter 204: National Hero
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The vige chief said, ¡°Alright, please go ahead and exin what happened.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found this situation strange. Hadn¡¯t the vige chief always been biased towards Qian Dashan? Why did it now appear that they might not take his side?
The vige chief added, ¡°I expect you to be truthful. I will handle this situation fairly and impartially.¡±
¡°Understood,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied.
However, Ms. Lin protested, ¡°Qin Zhenzhen hit me, and she¡¯s also involved! She¡¯s just as biased!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen quickly retorted, ¡°That¡¯s not relevant right now. I¡¯m only addressing what happened before. Besides, I can swear that if I¡¯m lying, I¡¯ll be struck by lightning!¡±
¡°Do you dare to swear like me? If you do, then you¡¯ll be forced to reveal the truth!¡± challenged Ms. Lin.
The vigers chuckled at the exchange.
Qin Zhenzhen decided not to waste any more time and proceeded to recount the events as they happened.
In the end, she also exined why she had acted the way she did, saying, ¡°Ms. Lin had insulted our sister and Brother Shanmin, which led to him pping her to silence her.¡±
¡°It was intentional on her part to cause the scratches on her own body.¡±
¡°Actually, even if Brother Shanmin hadn¡¯t hit her, I would have feltpelled to teach her a lesson. Her words were incredibly hurtful, and she seemed relentless until someone shut her up.¡±
¡°She kept humiliating our sister, and I used the twig to give her two warning hits, hoping she would stop talking about it.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen justified her actions and the reasons behind hitting Ms. Lin.
Su Lan was deeply moved and couldn¡¯t hold back her tears. She was grateful for the kindness and support she received from her Third Sister-inw.
Third Sister-inw proved to be both brave and articte, and Su Lan considered herself lucky that her Third Brother had married her.
With such courage and eloquence, the Third Sister-inw of the Su Family was destined for greatness.
Su Ning handed a handkerchief to Su Lan, saying, ¡°Sister, please don¡¯t cry. With Third Sister-inw on our side, she will definitely teach Uncle and his family a lesson!¡±
Taking the handkerchief, Su Lan wiped away her tears.
¡°I won¡¯t cry anymore. I will face the future bravely!¡± Su Lan dered with determination.
She gazed at Qian Shanmin, realizing that she should no longer harbor feelings of inferiority. She was determined to build a strong rtionship with Third Sister-inw and make her own choices.
Su Lan had liked Brother Shanmin even before they got married; it was her wish to marry him. The fact that Brother Shanmin reciprocated her feelings was a rare and cherished bond.
However, Ms. Lin interjected, pointing at Qin Zhenzhen, and used her of twisting the truth, iming they were siding with the ¡°cripple.¡± Ms. Lin continued to provoke, insinuating that Qin Zhenzhen was about to hit her again.
Qin Zhenzhen stepped forward, but Ms. Lin quickly retreated, using Qin Zhenzhen of having no sense of propriety.
Qin Zhenzhen stopped and addressed Ms. Lin sternly, ¡°You persistently call me a cripple, but do you know that it¡¯s against thew to use such derogatory terms?¡±
¡°Brother Shanmin¡¯s foot was injured while bravely fighting on the battlefield, defending the nation and its people. Despite his injury, he is a national hero!¡±
¡°The country has recognized his valor and awarded him with medals and grants.¡±
¡°Many soldiers at the border sacrifice their lives and shed their blood to secure our country¡¯s stability. They deserve everyone¡¯s respect and gratitude. It¡¯s shameful that you mock Brother Shanmin for his injury simply because he didn¡¯t marry your niece as you wished!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s impassioned words resonated deeply with everyone present. The once lively atmosphere fell into a hushed silence as the vigers listened with respect and gratitude. Their eyes turned towards Qian Shanmin, recognizing his bravery and sacrifice.
Even Qian Dashan¡¯s family now remained silent..
Chapter 205 - 205: Nobleman
Chapter 205: Nobleman
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Hearing what Qin Zhenzhen said, Qian Shanmin could not help but burst into tears. Her words reminded him of those fierce battle scenes he experienced in the past.
Some of his brothers and friends were lucky enough to survive and be officers. Others were handicapped like him, but a significant number had made the ultimate sacrifice and were now resting in eternal sleep at the border. Their heroic souls continued to guard the nation, even in death.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words ignited a fire within him. Third Sister-inw was right. The soldiers at the border deserved utmost respect, as they were the guardians of world peace and the shield that protected their country from being trampled upon.
Comparing himself to the soldiers at the border, he suddenly felt inadequate. He realized he should stop wasting time with his brothers and instead join the military camp for training, so he could contribute more effectively.
Su Bin gained a newfound admiration for Qin Zhenzhen. He had never expected a girl younger than him to express such profound thoughts.
The vige chief coughed and turned to Ms. Lin, asking, ¡°Do you admit that you were at fault first?¡±
Ms. Lin was reluctant to admit defeat, but she knew no one would believe her side of the story. Regardless of who was right or wrong, she knew she had to pay for the medical fees resulting from the injury.
¡°They should not have hit me, and they should not have hit me so hard!¡±
¡°I am not trying to defend myself. I am genuinely injured all over and urgently need to go down the mountain to find a doctor. However, my family is extremely poor, and we have no money to cover the medical expenses,¡± Ms. Lin pleaded.
¡°I will drop everything else as long as they are willing to pay for my medical fees,¡± she added, emphasizing her dire situation.
The chief¡¯s face showed concern as he asked, ¡°How much do you need for the medical fees?¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s eyes lit up with a hint of greed. ¡°You can give me 10 liang each!¡± she stated, hoping to get the maximum amount possible.
Qin Zhenzhen scoffed at Ms. Lin¡¯s demand. ¡°You must be dreaming! You want 20 liang for medical fees? I¡¯d rather stab you ten times!¡± she retorted sharply.
Ms. Lin stepped back, visibly startled by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s bold reaction.
Qin Zhenzhen rified with disdain, ¡°Of course, I won¡¯t resort to anything illegal, but you better think this through. If you insist on receiving our 20 liang for medical fees, I will report this matter to the governmental office. Let them decide who is in the right.¡±
¡°By that time, I don¡¯t know who will be suffering!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s strong words seemed to strike fear in Ms. Lin, as the vigers discussed the potential consequences of reporting her actions to the governmental office.
¡°Ms. Lin will definitely suffer if we report this to the governmental office!¡± one viger whispered.
¡°Exactly! She not only humiliated Su Lan but also disrespected the hero Qian Shanmin!¡± another viger chimed in.
¡°She¡¯s clearly in the wrong, and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s brother-inw works at the county office. She deserves to be punished!¡± someone remarked, highlighting the significance of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s connections.
¡°She¡¯s being foolish. Why would she offend someone she can¡¯t afford to offend? Qin Zhenzhen is a good rtive,¡± another vigermented.
Unfazed, Ms. Lin defiantly clenched her teeth and challenged them to report the matter to the governmental office, doubting Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s uncle¡¯s influence.
Attempting to mediate the situation, the vige chief suggested a less severe punishment, proposing to offer some eggs, boiled and rolled on the face, to reduce the swelling caused by the altercation. The idea amused the vigers, and they chuckled at the chief¡¯s creative resolution.
However, Ms. Lin remained dissatisfied and prepared to voice her objections when a man rushed up the mountain, bringing startling news.
¡°Vige Chief! Hurry, go down the mountain! We have a nobleman here!¡± the man shouted, clearly agitated.
¡°He¡¯s from the capital! The governor of the Mei Family, the County Magistrate of our county. He¡¯s here with a noble from the capital!¡±
¡°Su Bin, your whole family should go down the mountain too. The County Magistrate said that the nobles from the capital are here for you!¡± he informed, leaving everyone astonished by the unexpected turn of events..
Chapter 206 - 206: Reputation
Chapter 206: Reputation
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin exchanged a startled nce. How could someone from the capital arrive so quickly? It seemed the Old Marquis was genuinely serious about this matter!
Su Bin¡¯s brothers and sisters were all perplexed by the unexpected arrival.
Their curious eyes turned towards Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen, seeking answers.
¡°Someone from the capital?¡± One of them questioned, hoping for an exnation.
¡°Could he be a distant rtive of ours?¡± Another wondered aloud.
Their father had always insisted they had no rtives in the capital, not even distant ones. He had left the gloomy ce behind, taking all their savings with him.
However, both Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin remained tight-lipped, sharing a silent understanding.
Su Bin spoke calmly, ¡°Let¡¯s head down the mountain and see who they are.¡±
The vige chief was taken aback, unable to fathom why such important figures would be here. ¡°So many governors areing? Is this for real?¡±
The man who had rushed up the mountain finally caught his breath, and with a
note of anxiety, he confirmed, ¡°It¡¯s true! I swear! There are four opulent wagons and 12 guards on horseback, all armed with swords!¡±
Upon hearing this, the vige chief was even more astonished. ¡°I must go down the mountain immediately!¡±
She then turned to a few men standing nearby, ¡°You,e with me. Let¡¯s head down and wee these noble guests. Perhaps, with their support, our Qian Family will find good fortune!¡±
Despite the vige chief¡¯s excitement, she wasn¡¯t naive. The fact that these noble visitors were searching for Su Bin¡¯s family strongly suggested they were rted to the Su Family.
The vige chief smiled warmly at Su Bin and his family. ¡°You should also head down the mountain.¡±
¡°If these noble people from the capital are indeed your rtives, there¡¯s no need for you to continue digging up yams.¡±
Having made her point, the vige chief then turned to Ms. Lin¡¯s family and delivered a stern warning. ¡°Let¡¯s not make a fuss about what happened just now. If you offend someone important, you might have to leave the vige for good!¡±
Ms. Lin, feeling the urge to retaliate andpensate for her injury, was about to curse at the situation, but Qian Dashan swiftly covered her mouth.
Qian Dashan even assured the vige chief, ¡°Rest assured, we won¡¯t cause any more trouble!¡±
He hade to realize that his wife had underestimated the importance of the visitors. With 12 guards apanying her, not to mention the presence of the governor and the County Magistrate, she must hold significant influence in the capital.
The consequences of offending the Su Family again could be dire, possibly leading to grave oues.
The vige chief couldn¡¯t wait any longer and immediately led his men down the mountain to greet the noble guests.
He may not have been a young man, but he hurried down the mountain, anxious not to keep the noble visitors from the capital waiting.
Su Bin¡¯s siblings also gathered their belongings and headed back home.
As for Qian Shanmin, conflicting emotions surged within him.
Earlier, Su Lan¡¯s demeanor had given him hope that she might reciprocate his feelings. But just as he was getting excited about it, the news of the noble visitors disrupted everything.
What if these noble people turned out to be their rtives and took them back to the capital? That would mean he and Su Lan could never be together.
However, if they were indeed rtives and intended to bring them back to the capital, Qian Shanmin decided he would step aside. He wouldn¡¯t hold Su Lan back from enjoying the opportunities the capital could offer.
His intention had been to marry her so they could lead a peaceful life together, not one of wealth and luxury.
On the other hand, Su Lan didn¡¯t dwell on suchplex thoughts. She felt ted about the possibility of the noble visitors being their rtives. She even asked Qian Shanmin to apany her down the mountain, hoping to seize the chance to express her willingness to be with him.
Qian Shanmin smiled at her, though his feelings were a mix of joy and sadness. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go down the mountain with you..¡±
Chapter 207 - 207: Recognition
Chapter 207: Recognition
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The sudden arrival of so many noble people created a stir in the vige, with many vigers abandoning their work to follow them down the mountain.
For most of these vigers, who had spent their entire lives toiling in the fields, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. They had never seen high-ranking officers or noble figures before, and the prospect of witnessing such a spectacle was too enticing to pass up.
One woman, in particr, decided to take half a day off from her work to catch a glimpse of the nobles and their show. Her curiosity was piqued, and she didn¡¯t want to miss out on this rare asion.
As more vigers saw their peers heading down the mountain to watch the show, even those who initially had no intention of going changed their minds and joined in the fun. After all, they were willing to put in the hard work in the fields, so why not enjoy a break and see what was happening?
Life in the countryside might be challenging, but it offered them the freedom to make such spontaneous decisions. During the busy farming season, taking a few days off was out of the question, but this unexpected event provided a wee opportunity for a small reprieve.
Once the vige chief had departed, Qian Dashan finally released Ms. Lin¡¯s mouth.
Fuming with annoyance, Ms. Lin was eager to unleash her anger on Qian Dashan, but Qian Erhu intervened, stopping her from doing so. Despite that, she couldn¡¯t contain her frustration andshed out at Qian Dashan, ¡°You coward! You are so timid and you don¡¯t allow me to fight for profits!¡±
Qian Dashan¡¯s frustration reached a boiling point, and he was on the verge of hitting Ms. Lin when Qian Erhu intervened.
¡°Dad, please don¡¯t. Mom is already in a bad situation. Hitting her won¡¯t solve anything, ¡± Qian Erhu implored.
Qian Dashan took a deep breath, trying to reason with Ms. Lin. ¡°Can¡¯t you see the situation clearly? I just told you that noble people from the capital are visiting the Su Family. What if they are indeed rtives? We can¡¯t afford to offend them!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s excitement seemed to cloud her judgment, and she retorted sharply, ¡°You¡¯re the one who¡¯s stupid! If they had wealthy rtives, why didn¡¯t their father tell them before? Why would hee to this impoverished ce from the capital?¡±
¡°In my opinion, they are not rtives, but enemies!¡± ¡°That poor man came to the Qian Vige for refuge!¡±
Ms.Lin¡¯s words made sense to Qian Dashan and his son.
Qian Dashan said, ¡°Then let¡¯s go down the mountain and take a look!¡±
¡°But I have to remind you that you are not allowed to cause any more trouble until we know what is going on!¡±
¡°I got it!¡±
As Ms.Lin made the promise, so Qian Dashan and his son took her down the mountain.
At the entrance of the Su Family¡¯s yard, four opulent wagons were elegantly parked, each drawn by two magnificent horses. Surrounding the gate stood twelve guards, their presence formidable, each armed with a knife.
A diligent coachman tended to the horses, providing them with dry grass to munch on and water to quench their thirst.
The spectacle had drawn almost all the remaining vigers to gather around, eager to catch a glimpse of the unfolding events. However, they were restricted from entering the Su Family¡¯s house, so they could only observe from outside.
Curiosity ran high among the vigers, and they exchanged spections about the visitors¡¯ identities and purpose.
¡°How many officers are here, and how many noble people came from the capital?¡±
¡°Do you think they¡¯vee for revenge?¡±
Those who were fortunate enough to witness the scene firsthand eagerly shared their ounts.
¡°I saw clearly that four individuals disembarked from the four wagons.¡±
¡°Two of them are wearing official hats and uniforms. One is the governor, and the other is County Magistrate.¡±
¡°As for the other two men, one of them is old, but he seems to have the highest status. The clothes he is wearing are obviously very expensive, and the cuffs and clothes are hand-embroidered. One would cost more than a thousand liang. ¡±
¡°The other man is younger, about 30 years old, and he is dressed luxuriously.
He must be rich.¡±
¡°They only said that they were looking for Su Bin¡¯s family. I don¡¯t know why.¡±
¡°Someone has already gone to the mountains to fetch the vige chief and Su Bin home.¡±
¡°Su Qing is by himself in the room now..¡±
Chapter 208 - 208: All Dead
Chapter 208: All Dead
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
At the head of the living room of the Su Family sat the excited Old Marquis. The moment he saw Su Qing, he had no more doubts in his heart. To him, the whole family were his grandchildren! Su Qing¡¯s beauty and resemnce to the Old Marquis when he was young filled his heart with joy. Moreover, the governor¡¯s words about Su Bin looking even more like him intensified his excitement.
However, as the Old Marquis didn¡¯t see Su Bin¡¯s jade pendant, he managed to hold himself back and refrained from acknowledging the family right away.
Sitting next to the Old Marquis was Lin Nan, the elder son of the Minister of Revenue. Lin Nan was Su Bin¡¯s father and uncle¡¯s son, making him Su Bin¡¯s cousin from the granduncle¡¯s side. It had been a long time since Lin Nanst saw Su Bin¡¯s father, who had left home when Lin Nan was not even 10 years old.
Alongside the Old Marquis were the governor and the County Magistrate. When Su Qing first saw these people, she got startled and had no idea what was going on. As she learned that they were from the capital, curiosity got the better of her, and she couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Are you here for my father?¡± Their father was originally from the capital, and this fact had been known to them since they were young.
The Old Marquis struggled to suppress his excitement and nodded in acknowledgement. ¡°Yes!¡±
Upon hearing this, Su Qing¡¯s face sank, and she replied solemnly, ¡°You came at the wrong time. My parents died in an ident..
The news of his son¡¯s passing still weighed heavily on the Old Marquis, and tears welled up in his eyes. ¡°It is my fault for not being here earlier¡¡±
Su Qing couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of confusion and sympathy as she looked at the grief-stricken Old Marquis, who bore a resemnce to her father. She tried to console him, saying, ¡°Old Master, don¡¯t worry, it is all in the past.¡±
It was evident that this elderly man shared a close rtionship with herte father, and the depth of his sorrow was palpable. However, Su Qing couldn¡¯t help but wonder why her father had never mentioned him before.
The Old Marquisposed himself and asked Su Qing, ¡°How have your brothers and sisters been all these years?¡±
Once again, Su Qing¡¯s expression turned somber as she replied, ¡°After my parents¡¯ misfortune, we had to sell our properties to make a living because we were underage.¡±
¡°Later on, we almost could not eat one full meal¡¡± Su Qing said, reminiscing with a smile. ¡°Fortunately, Third Brother married Third Sister-inw, who changed our family¡¯s situation. Our brothers and sisters won¡¯t starve anymore.¡±
Listening attentively, the Old Marquis kept inquiring, ¡°What did your father do when he was alive? Did he tell you anything about his childhood?¡±
Suddenly, Su Qing asked, ¡°Excuse me, Old Master, are you my father¡¯s friend or distant rtive?¡±
Hearing this, the Old Marquis felt as though he had been sshed with cold water. ¡°Why friends¡ or distant rtives? Can¡¯t they be rtives?¡±
Su Qing responded, ¡°Because my father told us that we have no rtives in the capital, not even close ones.¡±
Lin Nan interjected, asking, ¡°What did he say?¡±
¡°They are all dead,¡± Su Qing replied bluntly.
The statement was so hurtful that the Old Marquis couldn¡¯t help but cover his face with his sleeves, almost bursting into tears. Lin Nan felt deeply embarrassed, regretting his question. The revtion meant that even the close rtives were dead, leaving their family with no one in the capital.
The governor hadn¡¯t expected Su Qing to make such a revtion. He quickly stood up, attempting to smooth things over.
¡°Young Master Su, how about bringing your grandma and uncle here? The Marquis has something he¡¯d like to ask them,¡± the governor suggested.
Su Qing was taken aback by the suggestion. ¡°Should I bring Grandma here?¡±
The governor nodded reassuringly. ¡°Yes.¡±
With the assistance of Su Qing and another young man from the vige, Grandma was gently helped up. Meanwhile, the vige chief and the others had already hurried back to the vige..
Chapter 209 - 209: Not a Soft Person
Chapter 209: Not a Soft Person
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The vige chief nodded and followed Su Bin into his home.
Soon, Su Bin and the rest of the group arrived at the house.
As soon as the Old Marquis saw Su Bin, he couldn¡¯t resist grabbing his hands in excitement. ¡°Child, I must see your jade!¡±
Su Bin gently pulled his hand back and replied calmly, ¡°Let¡¯s discuss this in the study.¡±
It became evident that Su Bin was already aware of the entire situation, which surprised everyone.
The Old Marquis seemed taken aback for a moment, but he quicklyposed himself and agreed, saying, ¡°Alright!¡±
At least he wasn¡¯t rejecting them outright. The Old Marquis could sense that his grandson possessed great abilities and remarkableposure, even after learning the truth. He also noticed that Su Bin¡¯s wife was no ordinary woman.
The Old Marquis believed that as long as they were open to talking, everything could be resolved amicably.
Su Bin then respectfully bowed to the two governors and said, ¡°Please forgive us. We would like to have a private conversation with you.¡±
The two governors smiled and replied, ¡°It is fine. You can have your conversation with the Marquis, and we¡¯ll wait outside the door to give you privacy.¡±
Understanding that the matter at hand was a family affair, the Old Marquis didn¡¯t want them to overhear the resolution of the conflict between him and Su Bin.
Su Bin turned to Su Lan and the others, saying, ¡°Let¡¯s all go to the study together.¡±
Once inside the study, Su Bin took out his jade pendant, and in response, the Old Marquis also retrieved his own, his hands trembling slightly with emotion.
Su Ping couldn¡¯t hide his surprise as he eximed, ¡°My father gave that jade to me! I sold it, but why do you have it now?¡±
The Old Marquis gently exined, ¡°You sold this jade, and my men purchased it back. When I saw this jade, it felt as if I had rediscovered my son, the one who ran away from home all those years ago¡¡±
¡°I followed the clues to this ce and discovered that my son, your father, has disappeared!¡±
¡°What?¡±
The revtion left them all in shock.
Their father was the son of the Old Marquis, making the Old Marquis their grandfather?
Overwhelmed with emotion, the Old Marquis couldn¡¯t hold back tears. ¡°You are my grandchildren, and I am your grandpa!¡±
Although they were excited about this newfound connection, they hesitated to fully ept it. Their father¡¯s words echoed in their minds ¨C they believed they had no rtives in the capital, leading them to conclude that their father had left home because of their grandfather.
All eyes turned to Su Bin, seeking answers from the calmest and mostposed individuals present, Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen.
Su Bin spoke up, ¡°Now that our identities are confirmed, could you please exin to us the reason our father ran away from home? Why, after all these years, do you now wish us to return to the capital?¡±
The Old Marquis wiped away his tears, understanding that Su Bin was not easily swayed by emotions. His disy of tears wouldn¡¯t be enough to influence him. Qin Zhenzhen shared a simr demeanor.
He began to recount the painful past, saying, ¡°The reason your father left home was that after your grandma gave birth to him, she fell seriously ill and grew weaker by the day.¡±
¡°We spared no effort in seeking medical help, gathering doctors from all corners of the family, and even hiring an imperial physician. Despite our best efforts, her condition didn¡¯t improve. After enduring several years of illness, she eventually passed away, leaving us in sorrow.¡±
¡°Lin Nan can confirm this. The Lin Family was extremely concerned about her well-being, and the doctors they employed were reputable and trustworthy. They certainly would not have harmed her.¡±
¡°However, your father, being young and impressionable at that time, must have heard from someone else that her illness was caused by a slow-acting poison, leading to her early demise.¡±
¡°We asked him to present evidence to support such serious ims, but he couldn¡¯t provide any. During that period, both I and the rest of the family implored him not to be influenced by others¡¯ instigation..¡±
Chapter 210 - 210: Past 20 Years Ago
Chapter 210: Past 20 Years Ago
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¡°No matter how hard we tried to reason with your father, he refused to listen, going so far as to spread false rumors and seek supporters to back his unfounded ims about your grandma¡¯s death.¡±
¡°Despite our best efforts, both our family and your grandpa¡¯s family dispatched numerous investigators to gather evidence, only to find that none of his allegations held any truth.¡±
¡°To bolster his case, he even resorted to bribing a maid and threatening her family, hoping she would provide a false testimony. Thankfully, at thest moment, the maid mustered the courage to tell the truth.¡±
¡°In response to his actions, we couldn¡¯t help but express our frustration sternly. However, we never anticipated that your father would take such drastic measures, leaving a letter dering his disassociation from the Marquis Mansion before vanishing without a trace.¡±
¡°At that time, your grandpa and your granduncle¡¯s family spared no effort in searching for him, but unfortunately, their efforts yielded no results.
Throughout the past 20 years, we never gave up our pursuit to find you.¡± ¡°If it weren¡¯t for the jade, your grandpa might not have been able to locate you.¡±
¡°Now that we have finally found you, we are reunited, and the worry that has gued him for so long is alleviated.¡±
The Old Marquis addressed himself as Grandpa.
As they listened to the Old Marquis¡¯s revtions, a wave of excitement swept through them, yet they remained silent, processing the shocking news.
Both Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen were at a loss for words.
For Su Lan, it all felt like a surreal dream. The idea that she had be the Lady of the Marquis Mansion was still hard to fathom.
Meanwhile, feelings of excitement and relief washed over him. He couldn¡¯t help but think that had he not sold the jade, their grandpa would have found them sooner, making him the biggest contributor to the reunion.
Su Qing felt a sense of embarrassment. He had just informed the Old Marquis that all their rtives in the capital were deceased, unknowingly revealing that the Old Marquis was their grandpa.
Young Su Cheng was too innocent to grasp the gravity of the situation, his emotions consumed by pure excitement and happiness.
Simr to Su Cheng, Su Ning shared the same sense of joy and enthusiasm.
However, Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen had divergent thoughts.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but ponder on the Old Marquis¡¯s words, realizing that their father¡¯s past actions seemed irrational and questionable based on the revtions.
However, their father¡¯s choice to live a miserable life in the countryside rather than returning to the Marquis Mansion hinted that the situation was far moreplex than it appeared.
He couldn¡¯t fathom that the seemingly benevolent Marquis had never harmed his grandma. To him, she was a malicious figure capable of ruining his future and potentially harming his wife, who held a higher status than his grandma.
The suspicion grew that she might have been ruthless enough to poison their grandma and force their father away, all to pave the way for her children to take over the Duke¡¯s position.
The Marquis seemed to be protecting his image, intentionally omitting any mention of his involvement in their father¡¯s departure or the circumstances surrounding his equal life.
Su Bin¡¯s inward sneer reflected his resolve not to return to the family until a thorough investigation was carried out.
Qin Zhenzhen recalled a story from a book that described how Su Bin¡¯s father had possessed evidence, but lost it, leading to disbelief and his eventual departure from home. She couldn¡¯t disclose this information to Su Bin, as it would force her to exin her transmigration, something she wasn¡¯t ready for.
The Old Marquis proved to be quite cunning, skillfully avoiding the crux of the matter, focusing only on the actions of the heir without acknowledging his own role or his equal life¡¯s maniption of Su Bin¡¯s circumstances.
He might have believed that if he was willing to ept them, Su Bin and his family should be grateful to him..
Chapter 211 - 211: Cold Calm
Chapter 211: Cold Calm
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
As Qin Zhenzhen pondered her next move, she considered forgiving the Old Marquis and returning to the Marquis Mansion. Alternatively, she could wait for Su Bin to make the final decision.
The Old Marquis, too, was paying close attention to the situation. He turned his gaze towards Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°The past is behind us now. For many years, I have carried the burden of self-me, and I no longer concern myself with who was right or wrong.¡±
Su Bin persisted, ¡°But I am telling the truth. Your uncle Lin Nan can attest to it.¡±
Lin Nan, who had been silently observing, decided to speak up. ¡°I am Lin Nan, your grandpa¡¯s eldest son, and your father is my cousin. You can call me uncle. There are two grandpas and one grandma who are still alive.¡±
He continued, ¡°When that incident urred, I was only 10 years old, but my father knew the whole story. ording to him, Cousin did not have any evidence.¡±
¡°At that time, grandpa and father were concerned about this matter. They put in some effort to investigate, but unfortunately, no conclusive result was found.¡¯
The implication of Lin Nan¡¯s words was thought-provoking. He seemed to be suggesting that even the Lin Family had their doubts about the situation.
The Old Marquis appeared visibly displeased with Lin Nan¡¯s remarks. He had expected Lin Nan to serve as a witness, not to stir up trouble.
Lin Nan brushed aside the Old Marquis¡¯s displeasure and proceeded with his ount.
¡°After that, Cousin ran away from home, and grandpa and father were fully upied with locating him.¡±
¡°At that point, we had to halt the investigation into Elder Aunt¡¯s death.¡±
¡°When your two grandpas heard that Cousin had married and had children with you, they were overjoyed. They expressed a strong desire to meet you in person, but my father was tied up with work and couldn¡¯t get leave. Meanwhile, my uncle¡¯s health wasn¡¯t in the best condition, so I decided toe on my own.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel that Lin Nan was a genuinely kind-hearted person.
He sounded more sincere than the Old Marquis.
ording to the book, Su Bin did not acknowledge the Old Marquis, nor did he acknowledge his grandpa¡¯s family.
But Su Bin only took revenge on the Marquis Mansion, not the Lin Family.
Lin Nan¡¯s father was the Minister of Revenue and had some influence.
But because Su Bin had turned evil at that time, the Lin Family distanced themselves from him and did not want to acknowledge him as their cousin.
But it seemed that the Lin Family could ept that.
She wondered what Su Bin was thinking.
Su Bin had a good impression of Lin Nan, better than the Old Marquis.
The Old Marquis continued what Lin Nan said. ¡°Your uncle has confirmed what happened back then. You believe that grandpa is telling the truth, right?¡±
¡°Actually, it is not the time to think about who is right and who is wrong. What is important is that grandpa has found you!¡±
¡°Ever since grandpa learned that your father was gone, he could not sleep at all.
He must be telling the truth, because he looked so haggard.
He wanted to show his sympathy to Su Bin and the others. He was already 60 years old, and he had never been in good health. He even came to fetch them personally from the capital, which showed how sincere he was.
But he had underestimated Su Bin¡¯s coldness.
Su Bin still did not say a thing, and his face was cold.
The Old Marquis had to continue. ¡°I also hope that you don¡¯t cling onto the past. We have to live in the present.¡±
¡°As long as you are willing to return to the Marquis Mansion and acknowledge your ancestors, I as the grandpa will have nothing more to ask of you, and I will die without regrets!¡±
Chapter 212 - 212: Acting
Chapter 212: Acting
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¡°After our return to the Marquis Mansion, I intend to fairlypensate you for your rightful dues, offering you the opportunity to start anew.¡±
The promise came from the lips of the aging Marquis.
In this critical juncture, Su Bin finally found his voice.
¡°There¡¯s something I must inquire. Did my father suspect correctly that the individual who poisoned my grandmother was your peer in life?¡±
A flicker of surprise crossed the Old Marquis¡¯s countenance as he nodded, albeit hesitantly. ¡°Yes, indeed¡¡±
¡°One more query, if you will. From the past year to the present, was it also your peer in life who shattered my prospects and obstructed my path to bing a Cultivated Talent? The very one suspected of poisoning our grandmother?¡±
Once more, the Old Marquis found himself taken aback, yet he mustered hisposure to respond, ¡°This matter remains uninvestigated, with no concrete evidence to warrant its dissemination. Nheless, I assure you that, when you arrive in the capital, he will furnish you with an exnation.¡±
A bitter smirk graced Su Bin¡¯s lips.
¡°Until I unearth the truth, I harbor no intention of journeying to the capital, nor do I wish to return to the Marquis Mansion. My concern lies in the fact that in a few days¡¯ time, I might fall victim to poison and meet my end.¡±
¡°The ordeal of my ruin transpired even before I stepped foot within the Marquis Mansion, and on the day of the examination, I found myself teetering on the precipice of death.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s promation prompted a moment of realization among the listeners.
So it was the other wife of the Marquis who, in the previous year, thwarted Su Bin¡¯s aspirations of bing a Cultivated Talent!
This woman was responsible for driving their father away.
She held the esteemed position of their grandfather¡¯s most trusted confidante.
Preposterous as it seemed, they were more inclined to believe in her innocence over that of their own kin.
And so, their decision was reached ¨C they would not retrace their steps to the Marquis Mansion, forsaking the ancestral obligations that came with it.
Observing the expressions on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s and Su Bin¡¯s faces, it was evident that they held knowledge of the situation¡¯s intricacies.
Yet, their lips remained sealed, for Su Bin¡¯s reluctance to return to the Marquis Mansion before a thorough investigation had been conducted prevailed.
The Old Marquis had reason to feel slighted by Su Bin¡¯s rejection, yet his frustration was curbed by an awareness that couldn¡¯t be dismissed.
He held certainty that his contemporary from two decades past was not responsible for the actmitted back then. However, that very certainty was overshadowed by the reality that his present peer had indeed perpetrated the offense.
Recognizing his own wrongs, the Old Marquis made an effort to humble himself. ¡°I pledge to you my utmost determination in unearthing the truth. Should irrefutable evidence surface, no absolution will be granted.¡±
A sigh escaped Su Bin¡¯s lips. ¡°The same assurance you likely extended to my father, but what transpired? Grief-stricken, he relinquished his heir status, opting for a life of destion in some remote corner¡¡±
The words struck a nerve with the Old Marquis.
Su Bin continued, ¡°More than two decades have passed since then. It¡¯s easy to dismiss the past as a bygone era, unreachable in its truth. I cane to terms with that.¡±
¡°But here¡¯s the reality¡ªI¡¯vee to understand that the architect of my shattered future is none other than your present counterpart. Yet, tangible evidence eludes us both. You¡¯re well aware, just as I am, of this truth. Your hands are tied, Iprehend¡¡±
In that moment, Qin Zhenzhen regarded Su Bin with a mixture of emotions.
She recognized the facade he was putting on. a performance that maintained a delicate bnce. He hadn¡¯t entirely affronted the Old Marquis, nor had he fully declined the offer to reenter the Marquis Mansion.
Behind his outward sneery a deeper truth¡ªSu Bin had no intentions of returning to the Marquis Mansion.
Still, he feigned eptance of bearing grievances to aid her cause.
With a metaphorical de honed like silk, he delicately sliced into the Old Marquis¡¯s conscience. Each incision stirred guilt, triggered introspection, and illuminated a glimmer of hope. A single conditiony before the Old Marquis to reim his ce¡ªto dispense rightful punishment upon the culpable, thereby paving the path back to the Marquis Mansion.
However, the truth concealed a divergent path¡ªhe had no intention of retracing his steps to the mansion¡¯s opulent halls. His resolve was stronger; he intended to dissuade his siblings from returning as well.
His actions were orchestrated in symbiosis with her aspirations. The Marquis
Mansion served as their tool, a strategic instrument wielded against the Jiang Family, while simultaneously fulfilling their vengeful desires for their father¡¯s suffering..
Chapter 213 - 213: Respect for Father
Chapter 213: Respect for Father
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Old Marquis was ovee with shame, rendering him utterly speechless in the face of her argument.
He had never anticipated that his falsehood would prove ineffective against Su Bin¡¯s scrutiny.
Umon as it was, Su Bin refrained from treating her grandfather with the same anger that she reserved for her father.
In fact, she went so far as to express understanding for the challenges he faced¡
This grandson of his proved to be far superior to his own son!
Upon receiving the governor¡¯s letter, the Old Marquis embarked on an inquiry into his own life¡¯s choices.
Yet, his life¡¯spanion refuted any involvement when confronted.
She, known for her gentle and virtuous nature, suddenly snapped.
¡°Why do you persistentlyy me on me? Don¡¯t assume I¡¯m oblivious to your suspicions of me poisoning you over the past two decades!¡±
¡°Your unspoken sentiments of resentment and conviction that I drove away your rightful heir are not lost on me!¡±
¡°And so, you¡¯ve subjected me and our children to this torment. Despite him being the legitimate heir, you treat him differently!¡±
¡°The Marquis Mansion¡¯s session has remained vacant, and yet you persist in withholding the title. Your intention to reserve it for your eldest lineal son is clear to me!¡±
¡°I¡¯ve borne all these grievances in silence!¡±
¡°But now you use me of causing harm to your grandson! If I were truly guilty, why would I only sabotage his future? Why wouldn¡¯t I arrange for someone to eliminate them entirely?¡±
In the past, the Old Marquis might have readily believed her ount.
Indeed, her reasoning held weight. If she possessed such malice, it would be simpler to orchestrate an outright assassination.
However, the governor¡¯s letter explicitly revealed that his exposure resulted from the sale of a singr jade pendant.
The pendant likely remained within her possession.
The Old Marquis clenched his teeth, choosing to dismiss her for the moment. He promptly instructed the guards to scour her quarters, and there, they uncovered the jade pendant.
His reaction was one of shock.
¡°Where did youe by this jade?¡±
The pendant was unmistakable. It was a gift from his father to his son. When his son had fled, he had taken away two jade pendants: one bestowed by the boy¡¯s father, the other a gift from the boy¡¯s grandfather.
Notably absent were any of the items he himself had given his son¡ªa testament to the profound extent of his son¡¯s animosity.
Initially, he had harbored resentment toward his son, deeming him a fabricator of falsehoods. He had med him for besmirching the family name and perpetuating the notion of his mother¡¯s poisoning.
As years wore on, his suspicions grew that perhaps his son had been right about the malicious nature of his life partner.
Yet, each encounter with the gentle and demure woman led him to discard such notions.
Upon the jade¡¯s discovery, she offered an exnation. ¡°During a jewelry purchase, a woman approached me at the store, seeking to exchange the item for money. She sold it to me at a low price. I had no inkling it belonged to the heir¡¡±
The Old Marquis reached his limit. He delivered a resounding p across her face.
¡°You¡¯d best pray that nothing ill befalls them!¡±
Pressed by the urgency of retrieving his grandson and granddaughter, he ced her under house arrest, resolving to unravel the truth upon his return.
In contemtion, the Old Marquis made a new vow to Su Bin. ¡°This time,
Grandpa will unearth the entirety of the matter¡ªspanning back two decades!¡±
In aposed tone, Su Bin remarked, ¡°I share your sentiment. Uncovering the truth would bring sce to our departed father.¡±
The Old Marquis found a modicum offort in her words.
His marriage to a gentle partner had produced four sons, all of whom had grown up rather indulged and incapable of shouldering significant responsibilities.
In Su Bin, however, he recognized an individual of remarkable breadth and talent. If Su Bin were to assume the mantle of heir, the Marquis Mansion could assuredly ascend to new heights.
Su Bin appended, ¡°I shall refrain from setting foot within the Marquis Mansion until the investigation concludes. Please understand, my intention is to honor our father¡¯s memory..¡±
Chapter 214 - 214: Acting Pitiful
Chapter 214: Acting Pitiful
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Then Su Bin turned towards his siblings, addressing them one by one. ¡°Sister, Second Brother, Fourth Brother, Fifth Brother, Sixth Sister, what are your thoughts?¡±
They had listened attentively, grasping every word.
Why had their father fled their home? What led him to im that all their rtives in the capital had perished?
They sensed that the Old Marquis was trying to safeguard his own life on equal terms.
Moreover, who could be behind the sabotage of Su Bin¡¯s future? Apprehension gripped them ¨C they feared that once Su Bin ascended to greatness, the marquisate would be passed onto him.
Su Bin had previously cautioned them about the perils that awaited them upon their return to the Marquis Mansion. There was a looming danger that threatened their lives.
However, the foremost concern was honoring their father¡¯s dignity.
Their father had broken away from the n to establish his own household. Returning to the Marquis Mansion in this manner would surely displease him upon discovery.
In light of this, Su Lan spoke up, her voice resolute. ¡°Third Brother¡¯s reasoning
is sound. I won¡¯t step foot in the Marquis Mansion until the investigation concludes.¡±
The one among them with a more fiery temperament chimed in. ¡°I, along with my sister and Third Brother, stand in ord.¡±
Su Qing and her younger brothers echoed their sister¡¯s sentiments.
Observing their collective reluctance to return, the Old Marquis couldn¡¯t hold back his tears.
¡°Iprehend that you¡¯re all dutiful children, raised well by your father.¡±
¡°I understand your hesitations about returning to the Marquis Mansion at this juncture. I shall patiently await the day your perspectives change. But are you so averse now, even to addressing me as your grandfather?¡±
Softness crept into Su Lan¡¯s heart. She wished to utter the word ¡°grandfather,¡± yet upon seeing her brother¡¯s expression, she swallowed the word back.
Lin Nan had intended to voice his thoughts, but paused in reflection.
As Su Bin¡¯s siblings voiced their positions, he was on the verge of interrogating the Old Marquis, but before he could proceed, the Old Marquis interjected.
Yet, witnessing the Old Marquis¡¯ request for them to call him ¡°grandpa, ¡± a surge of irritation overcame Su Bin.
¡°Never did I imagine the Old Marquis would resort to such maniptive tactics!¡±
The Old Marquis reddened. ¡°I merely wish my grandchildren to address me as
¡®grandpa.¡¯ It¡¯s a simple gesture!¡±
Lin Nan retorted sharply, ¡°You know perfectly well that¡¯s not the heart of my concern!¡±
¡°Allow me to inquire, when you disclosed their whereabouts, why did you withhold the information about someone¡¯s deliberate attempts to sabotage Su
Bin¡¯s future?¡±
¡°You¡¯re apprehensive that we would seek retribution once we¡¯re aware of this. You wish to shield the Madam of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion from consequences!¡± The Old Marquis¡¯splexion grew even more flushed.
¡°I¡¯ve reiterated that the investigation remains ongoing, and I ammitted to uncovering the truth!¡±
¡°I was pressed to meet them promptly. My intention was to bring them back, so we could confront the situation and unveil more details¡
Lin Nan cut off the Old Marquis in a surge of anger. ¡°Are you implying that unless they return to the Marquis Mansion, you cannot ascertain the truth?¡±
He held the title of Marquis, yet Lin Nan disyed no deference, eliciting deep frustration within the Old Marquis.
¡°I¡¯ve assured you, I shall delve into the matter thoroughly! Rest assured, before departing, I¡¯ve arranged for someone to keep watch over her. No one shall have contact with her until my return!¡±
Lin Nan sneered. ¡°Your supposed thoroughness is all too conspicuous!¡±
¡°So, the tale circting at the tea house in the prefecture is tied to the Marquis Mansion!¡±
¡°Over two decades ago, your selfish actions drove away the heir, and now, twenty yearster, you attempt to manipte my cousin once again. You¡¯re well aware of her involvement, yet instead of dealing with her initially, you feign destion here.. Disgraceful!¡±
Chapter 215 - 215: Powerful Aura
Chapter 215: Powerful Aura
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Being lectured by Lin Nan, the Old Marquis felt his cheeks burn as he struggled to find his voice. His self-me still clung to him like a heavy shroud.
His mind retraced the days when his son and grandchildren had endured a life of poverty. Then his thoughts shifted to his wife, the woman he had always cherished, who had kept the existence of their grandchildren a secret, even before he had discovered them. Instead, she had orchestrated Su Bin¡¯s involvement through a third party.
With the Lin Family¡¯s backing, Su Bin and his family no longer saw a reason to reside in the Marquis Mansion unless he dealt with Madame Qiao decisively.
But his dilemma concerning the heir of the Marquis Mansion lingered heavily.
In his conversation with Su Bin, Lin Nan had also conveyed his support for their endeavors.
Furthermore, Lin Nan pledged to unearth the truth, spanning more than two decades, and deliver justice for histe aunt, the rightful heir, and Su Bin alike.
Throughout this tumultuous exchange, the title of ¡°grandpa¡± never graced the Old Marquis¡¯s ears.
As a marquis, maintaining hisposure was paramount. Yet, he allowed himself the vulnerability of shedding tears, though the word ¡°grandpa¡± remained elusive.
A potent mix of remorse and disillusionment consumed him.
He had woefully underestimated Lin Nan¡¯s audacity.
He had egregiously misjudged Su Bin¡¯s maic influence, evidenced by his siblings¡¯ unwavering obedience.
Recognizing that their loyalty to Su Bin stemmed from Qin Zhenzhen, the Old Marquisprehended the pivotal role she had yed in shielding them from destitution and rekindling their aspirations, a debt that bound them to her.
A convoy of four wagons, escorted by a contingent of twelve guards, departed from Qian Vige.
In short order, the entire tale spread throughout the vige, sparking a flurry of conversations among its inhabitants.
¡°It¡¯s astounding to think that Su Ting is the rightful heir of the Marquis Mansion!¡±
¡°He chose to flee rather than face his father due to some dispute. Preferring a destitute life in the rural expanse over admitting a mistake.¡±
¡°It¡¯s likely moreplex. Su Ting wouldn¡¯t have fabricated a story about all his kin in the capital being deceased if it were merely a minor squabble.¡±
¡°True, we mustn¡¯t air our internal issues for all to see. Preserving our dignity is essential. ¡±
¡°I believe a significant event must have transpired then, driving a wedge between Su Ting and his father.¡±
¡°Indeed, had it been a trifling misunderstanding, Su Bin and the others would have apanied the Old Marquis to the city.¡±
¡°When the Old Marquis emerged, his eyes were bloodshot. Evidently, he had wept. Su Bin wore an icy expression. My guess is that Su Bin¡¯s actions prompted the Old Marquis¡¯s tears!¡±
¡°I share that sentiment ¨C it¡¯s likely Su Bin who moved him to tears! Thatd, Su
Bin, has a gaze that can cut deeper than any de.¡±
¡°Haha, that¡¯s what they call having amanding presence!¡±
¡°But they haven¡¯t outright refused the idea. I casually asked Su Cheng when they were nning to head to the capital for a taste of the good life, and he mentioned they¡¯d go there eventually.¡±
¡°Which is why they¡¯re bound for the capital sooner orter.¡±
¡°Prosperity and grandeur ¨C nothing can stand in their way!¡±
Uponprehending the situation, Qian Shanmin found himself particrly perturbed.
He hadn¡¯t anticipated Su Lan ascending to the position of the Lady of the Marquis Mansion.
He had envisaged offering his well-wishes to Su Lan, envisaging a tranquil life for her.
Yet, the reality had delivered an agonizing blow. The idea of losing Su Lan permanently tore at his heart like a knife.
Still, he refused to implore Su Lan to remain.
Hecked the means to bestow riches upon her, so what right did he possess to detain her?
Learning that Su Bin and his family were of Marquis Mansion lineage left Qian Dashan and his kin grappling with profound remorse.
Had they recognized their noble heritage, they would never have subjected them to mistreatment..
Chapter 216 - 216: Ambiguity
Chapter 216: Ambiguity
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With the two families having nearly severed their ties, it seemed unlikely that any positive oues could emerge from this situation. There was even the potential for retaliation from Su Bin and others.
Qian Dashan offered a stern warning to Ms. Lin, ¡°It¡¯s crucial not to antagonize anyone from the Su Family. Igniting their ire could lead to dire consequences.¡±
Ms. Lin nodded thoughtfully. ¡°I¡¯m not foolish. I¡¯m working on repairing our rtionship with them, and I won¡¯t let anyone provoke them.¡±
Casting a meaningful nce at Feng, who was still present at home, Qian Dashan discreetly drew Ms. Lin aside.
¡°If you n to present Feng as Qian Shanmin¡¯s potential wife, it¡¯s best to remain uninvolved.¡±
Ms. Lin was left perplexed, struggling toprehend the situation. ¡°Why should we avoid getting involved? We need to seize this opportunity; what if someone else beats us to it?¡±
¡°Before, Qian Shanmin was swayed by Su Lan, causing him to disregard Feng.
However, with Su Lan now elevated to the status of Lady of the Marquis Mansion, she¡¯s out of his reach. Consequently, he¡¯s likely to settle for the next best option. Unless I create an opening for them now, someone else might snatch it away.¡±
¡°Keep in mind that while Qian Shanmin may have a limp, it doesn¡¯t hinder his work on the farm. More importantly, he possesses 300 liang, which means Feng wouldn¡¯tck for sustenance after marrying him. Our family could also reap some benefits.¡±
Qian Dashan snapped at Ms. Lin, his tone sharp. ¡°I¡¯m being brutally honest with you, even if it feels like addressing a stubborn mule!¡±
¡°Indeed, Qian Shanmin was influenced by Su Lan¡¯s allure, but without her interest, his fixation wouldn¡¯t be so intense.
¡°My point is, Qian Shanmin has been someone Su Lan held affection for over a lengthy period. Although she¡¯s now the Lady of the Marquis Mansion and can¡¯t marry him, her feelings for him still run deep.¡±
¡°I believe Qian Shanmin would think twice about any wrongdoing once he recognizes Su Lan¡¯s identity. Perhaps he could genuinely ept Feng.¡±
¡°If Qian Shanmin and Feng do form a couple, and Su Lan observes that the person she harbors feelings for is drawn to Feng, her resentment might extend to our family.¡±
¡°She holds the position of Elder Sister,manding the respect of all the siblings within the family. If she chooses not to recognize us, our efforts will yield naught! ¡±
¡°Understood?¡±
Ms. Lin was taken aback, marveling at her husband¡¯s depth of thinking. His ability to delve into such intricacies was impressive.
Her husband¡¯s analysis was urate, yet she had already set her heart on Feng being an ideal match for Qian Shan. Relinquishing her role as matchmaker was a difficult decision.
Nevertheless, contemting the advantages she could gain from the Marquis Mansion, she found no reason to be miserly. The Old Marquis had already been magnanimous in granting 100 liang to her mother-inw.
Ms. Lin believed that swift reparation of rtions with the Su Family was imperative to secure even greater benefits.
That night, Ms. Lin and Qian Dashan apanied her mother-inw to the Su Family, bringing along some gifts from their home. They presented these as tokens of appreciation to the Old Marquis for his financial assistance to her mother-inw.
Su Bin and the others, out of respect for their grandmother, permitted them to remain in the living room. However, their interaction was limited solely to conversations with the grandmother. Ms. Lin and Qian Dashan were all but ignored.
Qian Dashan, attempting to engage his mother, was met with the grandmother¡¯s inquiry on his behalf, ¡°Su Lan, when do you envision returning to the Marquis Mansion?¡±
Su Lan replied, ¡°The decision hasn¡¯t been finalized. It might happenter.¡±
Admitting the possibility of not returning to the Marquis Mansion wasn¡¯t an option. Doing so would require disclosing numerous details. It seemed wiser to provide an ambiguous response..
Chapter 217 - 217: Reconciliation
Chapter 217: Reconciliation
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Qian Dashan chimed in, saying, ¡°Once you¡¯re back at the Marquis Mansion, you can leave the upkeep of the house to Uncle¡¯s family. We¡¯ll make sure it¡¯s regrly maintained and cleaned, all at no cost to you. We won¡¯t ever ask for a single penny.¡±
Su Ping retorted with a dismissive snort, ¡°Certainly not necessary. We can manage our house on our own.¡±
In truth, they had no intention of returning to the Marquis Mansion.
Qian Dashan¡¯s smile widened. ¡°I¡¯m no stranger here, what are you implying?¡±
In reality, his concern was that the Su Family might hand over the house to Qian Shanmin, potentially leading to the fields and yam plots in the mountains also falling under Qian Shanmin¡¯s control.
Qian Dashan and the others had their sights set on both the fields and the yam plots.
Before they could voice their thoughts, he preempted them, ¡°It¡¯s premature to discuss this now. We can delve into this matter when we relocate to the capital.¡±
Ms. Lin was taken aback. ¡°What do you mean? Are you saying you won¡¯t be heading to the capital?¡±
Qian Dashan shot her a stern look. ¡°How can they not go to the capital? One residence is akin to the heavens, while the other is mere earth.¡±
¡°Furthermore, why should the past grudges burden the current generation?¡±
Su Bin cast a cold nce at them. ¡°Even if we do decide to moveter on, we¡¯ll entrust the house to someone trustworthy. No need to inquire further, you won¡¯t be considered.¡±
Flushed with embarrassment, Qian Dashan and his wife left with their mother, cautious not to provoke Su Bin.
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled inwardly ¨C a problem that could be solved with a single sentence.
News of Su Lan¡¯s family¡¯s connection to the Marquis Mansion quickly circted among the nearby viges.
Upon hearing this news, Wang Yizhi¡¯s family was utterly astonished ¨C they had unwittingly let go of a significant opportunity!
Had Wang Yizhi not divorced Su Lan, the entire family could have relished a life in the capital!
Regret gnawed at the whole family, prompting them to consider the possibility of rectifying the situation. Consequently, they dispatched their youngest son to fetch Wang Yizhi back home.
When the news reached Wang Yizhi, he was left dumbfounded.
What a ridiculous twist of fate!
Could his luck be any worse?
He had parted ways with Su Lan in pursuit of money, only to discover that she had ascended to the position of Lady at the Marquis Mansion ¨C a transformation akin to a phoenix rising from the ashes.
Inparison, his wife¡¯s well-off family was nothing more than mosquitoespared to the grandeur of the Marquis Mansion.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s brother offered him a gentle reminder. ¡°Brother, Mom and Dad want you to reconcile with Elder Sister-inw.¡±
¡°Fine. ¡±
With gritted teeth, Wang Yizhi made his resolution. For the sake of wealth, influence, and his future prospects, he deemed it worthwhile to implore Su Lan for forgiveness.
He hadn¡¯t yet formalized his union with his well-fed wife, and she wasn¡¯t bearing his child either.
Rather than being drained by his robust wife, he might as well kneel before Su
Lan and plead. After all, he and Su Lan shared a daughter, and their ties were still intact. Perhaps, in consideration of their daughter¡¯s father, Su Lan might
reconsider.
On the third morning following the Old Marquis¡¯s arrival, Wang Yizhi, who had just returned from the prefecture,den with numerous gifts, arrived in Qian Vige apanied by his parents.
Even on their journey, they were recognized by passersby.
¡°Look, isn¡¯t that Su Lan¡¯s ex-husband? And are those her former inws?¡± ¡°Yes, why are they here?¡±
¡°It appears they¡¯re seeking reconciliation. Given that they¡¯ve learned about Su Lan¡¯s position as ady in the Marquis Mansion, they¡¯re probably aiming to implore her forgiveness and reunite.¡± ¡°Do you reckon Su Lan would acquiesce?¡±
¡°I highly doubt it.¡±
¡°Me too¡±
Chapter 218 - 218: Shameless
Chapter 218: Shameless
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Wang Yizhi and his parents stood halted at the threshold.
¡°Why are you here? Leave this instant!¡±
Without hesitation, Wang Yizhi retorted, ¡°We¡¯re here because we miss Xiaoyu.
We¡¯ve brought gifts to see her. You can¡¯t just deny our right to visit.¡±
Noticing the spectators around, his parents chimed in, ¡°Since you took Xiaoyu away, we haven¡¯t had a peaceful night¡¯s sleep. We implore you to let us meet her.¡±
His mother¡¯s eyes welled up, tears smeared on her sleeves.
His irritation surged. He had never encountered such audacity.
Despite knowing their true intentions, they were using Xiaoyu¡¯s absence as an excuse, iming to miss her.
Had they genuinely yearned for her, they wouldn¡¯t have arrived so btedly.
He was on the verge of shooing them away with a broom when Su Lan and Qin Zhenzhen emerged.
Su Lan intervened calmly. ¡°Allow them in.¡±
She wouldn¡¯t obstruct their meeting with Xiaoyu.
Nothing else.
Seeing Su Lan¡¯s agreement, Wang Yizhi felt a hidden relief. He believed that Su Lan could still be pushed around easily, as before.
His parents shared a simr sentiment, easing up and sensing that reconciliation might be achievable.
As they stepped into the courtyard, Wang Yizhi reached out to lift his daughter. ¡°Xiaoyu, let Daddy carry you. I¡¯ve brought all sorts of delicious treats for you¡¡±
Yet, despite her proximity to her father, she remained cowering, her fear still palpable.
Not even delectable food could coax her out of her shell.
Su Ping derided Wang Yizhi, ¡°Your very own daughter treats you as though you¡¯re a ghost. You trulyck shame!¡±
Flushed with embarrassment, Wang Yizhi retorted, ¡°Who knows what you¡¯ve been telling her!¡±
Desiring to cradle Xiaoyu, Wang Yizhi¡¯s mother attempted to do so, yet Xiaoyu clung to Su Lan, resisting her grandmother¡¯s touch.
Su Lan scooped up her daughter,forting her, ¡°Fear not, Xiaoyu. This isn¡¯t the Wang family anymore, and you no longer bear the Wang surname. They won¡¯t dare harm you.¡±
In a hushed tone, Xiaoyu questioned, ¡°Really?¡±
Witnessing her niece¡¯s apprehension, Su Ping offered reassurance, ¡°Absolutely! If anyone daresy a finger on you, Second Uncle will step in.¡± A shy smile curled behind Wang Yizhi¡¯s back. ¡°Thanks, Second Uncle!¡± Su Lan patted her daughter¡¯s back, affirming, ¡°No need to be afraid.¡±
Her resolve solidified ¨C she wanted nothing to do with the Wang family.
The Wangs were nothing but scoundrels.
Whenever their moods soured, they would vent their frustrations on Xiaoyu.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s father, disying more acumen, refrained from attempting to carry Xiaoyu.
He arranged the snacks on the table, enticing her toe closer.
¡°Xiaoyu, look, these are your favorites: sesame candy, pig field cake, dried sweet potatoes¡ Come to grandpa¡¯s side, and I¡¯ll save them for you to savor slowly.¡±
Yet Xiaoyu shook her head, resolute. ¡°I already have everything. My Third Uncle and Third Aunt-inw got them for me!¡±
Wang Yizhi and his parents felt their embarrassment keenly.
However, Wang Yizhi hadn¡¯t lost sight of their initial purpose for being there.
Suddenly, he cast an affectionate gaze upon Su Lan and advanced in her direction.
Su Lan¡¯s astonishment was evident, a reflexive urge to retreat tugging at her. Yet, she reined in the impulse.
This was her domain, her sanctuary; there was no reason to fear Wang Yizhi.
Wang Yizhi was likely orchestrating a spectacle, attempting to sway her emotions.
Backing down would signify a victory for him, and that wasn¡¯t something she Intended to concede.
Observing the shift in Su Lan¡¯s expression, Wang Yizhi pondered the odds of his sess..
Chapter 219 - 219: Such a Person
Chapter 219: Such a Person
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When Su Lan disyed a hint of panic, Wang Yizhi saw a glimmer of hope. However, as events unfolded, Su Lan¡¯s demeanor shifted to one of utter calmness, tinged with a trace of scorn.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s heart grew cold. Su Lan had changed, and this time, he might not be able to exert control over her.
Nevertheless, since he was present, he resolved to make an attempt.
Approaching Su Lan, Wang Yizhi reached out to gently stroke Xiaoyu¡¯s hair. ¡°Xiaoyu, I¡¯ve missed you so much¡
Xiaoyu quivered.
Her father missed her deeply. Did this imply that he intended to bring her back to the Wang Family?
The thought of returning to the Wang Family was something she vehemently opposed.
Su Lan handed the jade pendant to Qin Zhenzhen and reprimanded Wang Yizhi.
¡°Why did youy a hand on Xiaoyu? Do you recall how you treated her before?¡±
Wang Yizhi defended himself shamelessly, ¡°I was merely offering her guidance.¡±
Su Lan¡¯s frustration intensified.
¡°Refrain from uttering such repugnant words! Your kin has always favored boys over girls, and Xiaoyu has borne the brunt of this bias!¡±
¡°Numerous members of the Wang Family have borne witness to the scars on her body. Those marks won¡¯t fade away!¡±
Subsequently, Su Lan promptly escorted them out.
¡°I won¡¯t object if you wish to visit Xiaoyu!¡±
¡°Yet, Xiaoyu regards you as though you¡¯re a specter. I dread the prospect of her being haunted by nightmares. Thus, I implore you: if you harbor any love for
Xiaoyu, depart from our abode and cease frightening her!¡±
The vigers exchanged hushed murmurs amongst themselves. ¡°It¡¯s apparent that the Wang Family truly harmed Xiaoyu!¡±
¡°The Wang Family¡¯s behavior is utterly shameless!¡±
¡°It seems their intention isn¡¯t solely to visit Xiaoyu. They¡¯re likely considering a remarriage with Su Lan.¡±
¡°Su Lan will never agree! She holds a prominent position now, and she won¡¯t make any concessions while she¡¯s not in a vulnerable state.¡±
¡°That¡¯s not entirely urate. Regardless of Su Lan¡¯s status, a woman who has been married and has children will encounter challenges marrying into an esteemed family.¡±
¡°She¡¯s an aplished individual with literary talents. If she secures a
Rmended status, she could attain an official position. Plus, he¡¯s Xiaoyu¡¯s father.¡¯
Wang Yizhi overheard their conversation. His confidence surged, leading him to kneel before Su Lan.
He even struck himself on both cheeks.
¡°Lan, this is my wrongdoing¡ please find it in your heart to forgive me!¡±
¡°It¡¯s devastating to witness Xiaoyu in this state. She despises her own father.
This is the cost of her father¡¯s absence. Lan, let¡¯s reunite!¡±
¡°Starting now, I pledge to honor and heed your wishes. I won¡¯t contest you.¡±
¡°If you doubt me, I swear¡¡±
Raising his right hand, Wang Yizhi was abruptly cut off by Su Lan¡¯s icy interruption. ¡°Spare me the theatrics. Even if you breathe yourst before me,
I¡¯ll never reconcile with you!¡±
Su Bin and the others abstained from intervening, understanding that their sister wouldn¡¯t let them down.
They stood by, observing the scene. Not a trace of concern lingered within them; they were primed to expel Wang Yizhi if needed.
Wang Yizhi stood mute, while his mother endeavored to persuade Su Lan.
¡°Lan, my darling daughter-inw, you have to think about this carefully.
For Xiaoyu¡¯s future, you should get back together with my son!¡±
¡°Firstly, you will never marry a good family with one daughter. Secondly, many stepfathers will have bad feelings towards their stepdaughter.. What if you meet such a person¡
Chapter 220 - 220: Silence
Chapter 220: Silence
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
My goodness, what utter nonsense was that elderly woman spouting? The vigers stood in shocked disbelief.
Su Bin and the others were consumed by anger.
Su Lan could no longer tolerate this absurdity. She seized a broom and directed it at her former mother-inw¡¯s feet. ¡°You wretched hag, leave this ce immediately!¡±
Observing the distressing spectacle, Qin Zhenzhen swiftly guided Xiaoyu into another room, shielding the child from such a distressing scene.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s father rushed to aid his wife, yet Su Lan¡¯s fury seemed to transform her into a force to be reckoned with as she brandished the broom.
Though most of her strikes missed their mark, some did connect with the ground, while a few grazed the old woman¡¯s feet, prompting her to emit exaggerated cries of pain.
In the grip of her anger, Su Lan recognized the limits she must observe. She was well aware that taking a life would invite legal repercussions, and even if injuries were sustained, medical bills would be her responsibility.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s parents tumbled to the floor, with his mother resorting to feigning helplessness. ¡°Lan, if pummeling us can alleviate your frustration, then strike us with all your might!¡±
¡°Should you choose to reconcile with my son, I¡¯ll offer no resistance, even if my demise is the cost¡¡±
Upon hearing these words, Su Lan flung the broom aside and dered, ¡°Eject them, or carry them out if necessary¡¡±
Out of sight, out of mind.
Their presence had be unbearable. The thought of physically removing them had crossed their minds, but Su Lan¡¯s sister had not voiced her opinion on the matter.
With that deration, Su Lan approached Wang Yizhi. ¡°Will you depart of your own volition, or shall we assist you in vacating this ce?¡±
Wang Yizhi was consumed by shame. He remained on bended knee, understanding that there was no avenue of retreat. Determinedly, he attempted to rise.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s mother directed her outcry at Su Lan.
¡°Su Lan, is your heart made of ice? My son, a Cultivated Talent, kneels before no ordinary person. Yet here he kneels before you, and you remain unmoved!¡±
¡°Are those rumors actually true? Your former me has returned, and that¡¯s why you¡¯re seeking a divorce, iming you¡¯re heartless¡
Before she couldplete her sentence, she erupted, ¡°Enough!¡±
Following this, she forcefully ushered Wang Yizhi¡¯s parents out of the premises.
Under Su Bin¡¯s icy stare, Wang Yizhi exited with his head bowed.
Su Qing and Su Cheng discarded the items that Wang Yizhi and hispanions had brought.
Su Ping issued a stern warning to Wang Yizhi¡¯s parents. ¡°Should you ever dare to trouble my sister or tarnish her reputation, be prepared to face the consequences!¡±
Equally coldly, Su Bin cautioned Wang Yizhi, ¡°Aspiring to be a Cultivated Talentes with the responsibility of understanding appropriate conduct.¡±
Wang Yizhi rallied his parents and mumbled, ¡°Let¡¯s return home.¡±
The intensity of Su Bin¡¯s gaze sent shivers down his spine. He finally felt a hint of trepidation.
The statuses of Su Lan and the others had transformed significantly since their past encounters. Annoy them, and the Marquis Mansion could effortlessly suppress even a Cultivated Talent.
Formerly, he might have used his wife¡¯s connections to ascend the socialdder. However, now he and Su Lan were adversaries, and any chance of reconciliation had faded away.
He was destined to endure further mistreatment and torment from the stout woman.
Wang Yizhi and his parents continued down the road, until Wang Yizhi¡¯s mother curbed her urge to berate Su Lan.
Nheless, she could no longer contain herself, addressing Wang Yizhi, ¡°My son, strive diligently to be the Primus, and let the entire Su Family seethe with fury!¡±
Wang Yizhi¡¯s father cast an exasperated nce at his wife. ¡°You believe bing the Primus is a simple feat?¡±
His wife countered. ¡°If others can make it, my son can make it too!¡±
Wang Yizhi felt so annoyed.. ¡°Stop it, just be quiet!¡±
Chapter 221 - 221: The Jiang Family
Chapter 221: The Jiang Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong promptly arrived right after Wang Yizhi and his parents departed. In a private conversation with Qin Zhenzhen, he shared, ¡°The Jiang Family from the capital has dispatched an envoy to bring Grandma. They¡¯re currently present at their residence.¡±
Remainingposed, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°What was their message?¡±
Qin Silong ryed, ¡°It appears to be rted to Su Bin¡¯s status as the Young Master of the Marquis Mansion. He¡¯s shown great respect towards Grandma and has brought valuable offerings.¡±
¡°Oddly, Grandma didn¡¯t mention the encounter with the mysterious figures in ck; they behaved as if nothing transpired.¡±
¡°However, they did express the desire to meet you, and Grandma consented to inform you.¡±
Acknowledging the situation, Qin Zhenzhen affirmed, ¡°I¡¯ll discuss this with Su
Bin. ¡±
She recognized the necessity of engaging with the Jiang Family from the capital.
Her confidence remained unshaken; she had the backing of the Marquis
Mansion and the Jiang Family would undoubtedly hesitate before taking any actions against her, considering her connection to Su Bin¡¯s father¡¯s maternal Qin Zhenzhen briefed Su Bin on the matter. In response, Su Bin volunteered, ¡°I¡¯ll apany you.¡±
¡°Very well.¡± Qin Zhenzhen weed the offer without hesitation.
With Su Bin apanying her to her maternal home, the Jiang Family refrained from harboring any ill intentions towards her.
Before Su Bin¡¯s departure, he advised Su Qing and Su Ping, ¡°Keep a close watch on Sister and be attuned to her emotions. Don¡¯t venture into the mountains today; stay home and provide herpanionship.¡±
Su Ping assented, ¡°Rest assured, we¡¯ll look after her. We now understand that your resilience surpasses our previous perceptions.¡±
True to his prediction, after some time, Su Lan regained herposure and engaged cheerfully in conversation with her siblings, as though Wang Yizhi and the others had never visited.
Aware that Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen were on their way to their maternal home, she paid a visit to a neighboring family in the vige and procured two sizeable castrated roosters.
The exnation given was that these offerings symbolized Su Bin¡¯s reverence towards his inws.
Observing Su Lan¡¯s thoughtful gesture, both Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen found themselves reassured.
Upon their arrival at the Qin Family residence, Qin Zhenzhen encountered members of the Jiang Family.
Present were a middle-aged man and a young gentleman.
They introduced themselves: the middle-aged man was Jiang Yu, the youngest son of her grandmother¡¯s brother, while the young man was Jiang Feng, Jiang Yu¡¯s own son.
In essence, this meant that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s paternal grandmother was the sister of Jiang Yu¡¯s grandfather.
However, aplex dynamic existed between them: Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s grandmother was born to a concubine, whereas Jiang Yu¡¯s family held the status of direct descendants, creating a longstanding enmity between Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s grandmother¡¯s lineage and the Jiangs.
During that era, the eldest daughter of the Jiang Family was tormented by suspicions that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s grandmother might seize her husband¡¯s affections, leading to the unfortunate circumstances that befell Grandma Qin.
How could these two individuals now sit before them as though nothing had transpired? Did they truly believe they could erase the weight of the past?
Qin Zhenzhen concealed her inner disdain. She held onto her determination to one day avenge her grandmother¡¯s suffering.
Jiang Yu extended a warm reception to Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Zhenzhen, your mastery of Third Aunt¡¯s techniques is truly remarkable. In fact, you¡¯ve surpassed her!¡±
With measuredposure, Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°Your assessment is off.
I¡¯ve only managed to grasp about 70-80% of my grandmother¡¯s skills.¡±
¡°But for the unfortunate incident with my grandmother, she would have reached an even higher level.¡±
Jiang Yu¡¯s countenance brightened. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right.¡±
¡°However, Third Aunt isn¡¯t as aplished as the esteemed elders within the family.¡±
¡°My point is, Zhenzhen, given your remarkable abilities, it would be wise for you to return to the family and avail yourself of more learning opportunities.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen offered a reminder, ¡°Nheless, myst name isn¡¯t Jiang, and I don¡¯t believe it¡¯s necessary for us to seek education from the Jiang Family. Even if we were to approach them, there¡¯s no guarantee of receiving instruction. I¡¯ve heard that the Jiang Family keeps their knowledge insr and doesn¡¯t readily share it with outsiders.¡±
This remark seemed to evoke a touch of frustration in Jiang Yu.. ¡°Yet you acquired your skills from the Jiang Family!¡±
Chapter 222 - 222: Real
Chapter 222: Real
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen responded firmly, ¡°In fact, the knowledge I gained from Grandma isn¡¯t rooted in the Jiang Family¡¯s teachings, but rather in her personal guidance. Grandma and I have formed our own distinct path.¡±
Jiang Yu¡¯s expression shifted, a mixture of surprise and amusement.
¡°Zhenzhen, you must be joking. How could that be true?¡±
¡°Why doubt it?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s tone grew grave, her eyes smoldering with resentment.
¡°Listen closely, before my marriage, I had already developed a unique set of culinary and medical skills through my own efforts. However, circumstances prevented her from showcasing her talents.¡±
¡°Truth be told, when you exiled Grandma to the countryside, you effectively severed her ties with the Jiang Family. Your indifference towards her over the years is proof of that.¡±
¡°Grandma understood very well who was responsible for her misfortune. Yet, constrained by her lower status, she chose to suppress her fury.¡±
¡°But even in her blindness, Grandma vowed never to employ the culinary and medical expertise she acquired from the Jiang Family¡¯s teachings. She refused to wield these skills to cook or heal.¡±
¡°Throughout these years, Grandma painstakingly carved her own path. What she imparted to me, what I absorbed, all originated from her ingenuity. None of it can be attributed to your Jiang Family.¡±
¡°Hence, youck the authority to impose the Jiang Family¡¯s regtions on me!¡±
Grandma Qinter disclosed to Qin Zhenzhen that the Jiang Family¡¯s regtions were primarily aimed at guiding the disciples of married women. This system confined these disciples to tending to their own offspring.
Ordinary married women possessed limited capabilities, resulting in their pupils being average at best.
The truly capable women not only entered the pce but also secured their sons-inw through strategic marriages.
However, life is unpredictable. There were instances of disciples being married into other families, and these disciples often stood out remarkably.
The Jiang Family held a rather disdainful view of disciples hailing from external families. However, if these disciples showcased remarkable prowess and gained prominence, or relied on the resources of the Jiang Family for their livelihood, a significant portion of their earnings would be requisitioned.
Furthermore, any newly-developed skills had to be surrendered to the Jiang Family withoutpensation. Such individuals were also obligated to return to the Jiang Family¡¯s service whenever required.
Jiang Yu had arrived with the intention of employing the Jiang Family¡¯s regtions to demand that Qin Zhenzhen surrender her seasoning concoctions.
In the eleventh hour, both Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother made a crucial decision. They recognized that as long as they refrained from acknowledging any influence from the Jiang Family, the Family¡¯s authority over them would remain limited.
And indeed, they possessed two robust pirs of support.
The first, and most significant, pir was the Marquis Mansion.
Surprisingly, Su Bin hadn¡¯tpletely alienated the Old Marquis. He had cleverly created an illusion that implied if the Old Marquis appropriately punished those deserving, Su Bin and his cohorts would return to the Marquis Mansion, thus bestowing honor upon their forebears.
The second towering support was Su Bin¡¯s maternal lineage.
Su Bin¡¯s grandfather held the esteemed position of Minister of Revenue, and even his younger grandfather upied a notable post within the capital. Lin Nan¡¯s demeanor suggested that the Lin Family was not inclined to overlook any affronts toward Su Bin and his family.
As Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words reached Jiang Yu¡¯s ears, his anger intensified. The notion that they had established their own faction seemed utterly ludicrous. Yet, his ire remained bridled due to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s familial background.
Turning his attention to Grandma Qin, Jiang Yu inquired, ¡°Aunt Qin, as for
Zhenzhen¡¡±
However, Grandma Qin interjected firmly, ¡°Zhenzhen is speaking the truth!¡±
¡°I¡¯ve never imparted any culinary or medical skills to the Jiang Family. If my words hold no weight, I¡¯m willing to swear upon my life!¡±
Jiang Yu swiftly intervened, his tone urgent. ¡°Please refrain from doing that, Third Aunt!¡±
Despite the situation, a hint of a sneer escaped her lips..
Chapter 223 - 223: Swearing
Chapter 223: Swearing
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°I am here not to coerce Third Aunt. The elders within the family have heard of Zhenzhen¡¯s exceptional medical talents, and they wish for her to pursue further studies within the Jiang Family, with hopes that she can attain even greater heights. ¡±
Jiang Yu intervened to prevent Grandma Qin from making the oath, as he desired to prevent any further deterioration in rtions between the two families.
Furthermore, he harbored suspicions that Third Aunt¡¯s ount might hold truth, or else she wouldn¡¯t have taken the oath.
Pending a clear understanding, he feltpelled to interject positively.
Nheless, Grandma Qin responded with a scornful sneer. ¡°You¡¯re painting quite the rosy picture! Do you truly think I¡¯m blind to the reality?¡±
¡°Had you approached me first, I might have shared my culinary and medical expertise with the Jiang Family out of familial consideration.¡±
¡°Yet, you didn¡¯t. Instead, you attempted to abduct Zhenzhen!¡±
¡°Over 40 years ago, the Jiang Family resorted to underhanded tactics against me. And now, four decadester, you employ the same treacherous ploy against my granddaughter!¡±
Though aware of the historical kidnapping of Qin Zhenzhen, Jiang Yu feigned ignorance. ¡°Third Aunt, is there a misunderstanding at y here?¡±
¡°I may not have been alive over 40 years ago, but I¡¯ve heard from preceding generations that the culprits were enemies of the Jiang Family. How could they possibly be affiliated with you?¡±
¡°To my knowledge, the Family Head never hinted at any intent to abduct Zhenzhen. Our visit to you was intended not just to pay our respects to Third
Aunt, but also to facilitate Zhenzhen¡¯s training¡¡±
Grandma Qin snorted, disinterested in Jiang Yu¡¯s exnations. ¡°Zhenzhen, disy the knife.¡±
¡°Very well.¡± Qin Zhenzhen ced the knife upon the table.
Jiang Yu found himself taken aback by the sight of the knife. It appeared that Third Aunt had identified the de as belonging to the Jiang Family.
Yet, he had resolved not to admit to such a connection.
¡°This de prominently bears the emblem of the Jiang Family. What could possibly be the exnation?¡±
Observing the shift in Jiang Yu¡¯s demeanor, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expression twisted into a mocking sneer.
¡°Are you truly oblivious to this? Then allow me to reiterate.¡±
¡°Justst month, on a morning like any other, a group of men dressed in ck allegedly bribed local ruffians and ambushed both me and my younger sibling in a secluded grove. They posed as highwaymen and even attempted to abduct me using sacks!¡±
¡°Thankfully, my spouse¡¯s second sibling appeared in the nick of time. Those ck-d individuals couldn¡¯t stand their ground, and they even turned violent, targeting my younger sibling. Ultimately, my husband¡¯s second sibling bore the brunt of their aggression.¡±
¡°Had it not been for their intervention, my younger sibling might have faced grave misfortune.¡±
¡°We carried the recovered knife home for my grandmother¡¯s assessment, and upon contact, she immediately identified it. This knife holds significant significance in your family.¡±
¡°If you im ignorance of this event, are you prepared to swear upon it?¡±
After a brief pause, Jiang Yu responded, ¡°One of the most dubious acts is taking oaths, which is why I discouraged Third Aunt from resorting to it. Engaging in such mundane matters holds no appeal for me.¡±
¡°Nevertheless, let me rify a few things. Do you believe a solitary knife is sufficient evidence to implicate the entire Jiang Family in this affair? Your haste is reckless!¡±
¡°You see, the Jiang Family has lost many a knife resembling this one. Perhaps someone is orchestrating a scheme against us.¡±
¡°With a family as aplished as the Jiangs, there¡¯s no need to magnify an incident involving a married woman.¡±
¡°I earnestly hope that Third Aunt can avoid misconstruing our intentions.¡±
¡°I will promptly ry your statements to the Family Head, who will dispatch a team to probe this matter thoroughly and furnish you with a satisfactory response..¡±
Chapter 224 - 224: A Loss
Chapter 224: A Loss
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Perhaps due to concerns about the Marquis Mansion and the Lin Family, Jiang Yu didn¡¯t have a falling out with Grandma Qin until she departed.
He feigned ignorance about the situation, even attempting to provide an exnation to prevent any misconceptions about past events.
Upon leaving, she left behind valuable gifts and remarked, ¡°We¡¯lle to visit you again in due time.¡±
¡°Furthermore, there¡¯s another matter I wish to share, Third Aunt. There¡¯s a sizable residence in the capital registered under your name, consistently maintained by professionals.¡±
¡°Essentially, you¡¯re suggesting that you¡¯d like Third Aunt and her family to settle in the capital, with the Jiang Family overseeing all aspects.¡±
Grandma Qin replied, ¡°Our life here isfortable. We¡¯ve no intention of relocating. ¡±
Jiang Yu responded, ¡°Understood. I¡¯ll ry your message to the Family Head.¡± After Jiang Yu and his son departed, Grandma Qin released a sigh of relief.
She confided in Qin Zhenzhen, saying, ¡°You can¡¯t imagine how haughty the Jiang Family can be. If not for theplex ties between the Marquis Mansion and the Lin Family, they might have forcibly taken you away, just as they intended for your brother.¡±
¡°They wouldn¡¯t have approached us so diplomatically.¡±
Qin Zhenzhenforted her, ¡°Grandma, fear not. You won¡¯t endure the Jiang Family¡¯s bullying again.¡±
¡°I won¡¯t permit those who once mistreated you to prosper!¡±
Grandma Qin asserted solemnly, ¡°Revenge isn¡¯t necessary. They¡¯re formidable opponents.¡±
¡°As long as you lead a content life, free from subjugation, I¡¯ll find sce.¡±
¡°Vengeance carries too steep a price. It¡¯s not warranted!¡±
In the past, her heartless father not only yielded to his wife but also favored his legitimate children due to his wife¡¯s family.
However, what added a peculiar twist was his penchant for taking several concubines into his fold, among them her mother¡ªa frail woman from a modest background.
Those concubines found themselves subjected to worse treatment than even the lowliest servants. Tragically, her mother suffered torment to the point of death at the hands of her father¡¯s wife, all because of her exceptional beauty.
At the tender age of five or six, she bore witness to this cruelty firsthand.
Her father¡¯s response was not one of reprimand towards his wife; instead, he cautioned her to heed his wife¡¯s dictates, lest she meet the same fate as her mother.
At that moment, she pledged to herself that she would carve out a ce of distinction, refusing to be overshadowed by those born into privilege.
Determined to prove to all that she could ze her own trail, she made good on that promise.
Her prowess in both culinary and medical domains stood unrivaled amongst her peers.
Her grace and erudition rivaled even her most privileged sisters.
This was precisely why she caught the attention of the Third Prince.
This was also why her destiny seemed sealed.
She was ensnared, subjected to humiliation, and robbed of her sight. She was acutely aware that the orchestrators were none other than her blood siblings and her own mother. It was clear to her that her father was not oblivious to this conspiracy either.
During that dark period, she fervently yearned for death.
Regret wed at her; she wished she hadn¡¯t shone so brightly.
Ultimately, her father ascended to the position of family patriarch, passing the torch to his eldest son¡ªJiang Yu¡¯s father.
Effectively, the reins of the Jiang Family fell into Jiang Yu¡¯s grasp.
In an ironic twist, she found herself on the same path as Jiang Yu, yet their enmity was stark.
If Qin Zhenzhen harbored thoughts of vengeance on her behalf, she would find herself in direct opposition to Jiang Yu and his associates.
Jiang Yu¡¯s Elder Aunt, a formidable and titled Princess Consort, possessed an unyielding nature, potentially cing Qin Zhenzhen at a distinct disadvantage..
Chapter 225 - 225: All-purpose Spiritual Water
Chapter 225: All-purpose Spiritual Water
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Grandma Qin drew upon her own life experience to advise Qin Zhenzhen not to antagonize individuals of significant influence when her own power was insufficient. Qin Zhenzhen nodded in response, assuring her grandmother, ¡°Rest assured, Grandma, I¡¯m well aware of how to navigate this.¡±
In a sudden reflective moment, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Grandma, what caused your blindness?¡±
Although Grandma Qin¡¯s eyes seemed intact, her vision had been utterly obscured. She recounted, ¡°I was blinded by poison. They bound me to a chair, forcibly held my eyes open, and administered a special potion that continually dripped into my eye sockets, rendering me sightless.¡±
A shiver ran through Grandma Qin as she recollected the agony of that ordeal. Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°I recall that you still experience asional difort in your eyes, don¡¯t you?¡±
Grandma Qin affirmed with a nod, saying, ¡°Yes, the pain does resurface at times. I often wonder what sort of poison they used.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen conceived of an idea ¨C she was determined to see if the mystical water on her fingers could somehow restore her grandmother¡¯s sight. The thought brought her joy; not only would it bring happiness to her grandmother, but it could also serve as evidence to the Jiang Family of her exceptional medical prowess ¨C demonstrated by curing her grandmother, who had endured blindness for over four decades.
Initiating her n, Qin Zhenzhen began fabricating a story, saying, ¡°Grandma, during my spirit journeys, I learned an eye-massage technique. Allow me to attempt it; it might alleviate the asional pain.¡±
Grandma Qin dismissed the idea with a wave of her hand, stating, ¡°It¡¯s imusible. It¡¯s been so many years.¡±
Seeking to persuade her grandmother, Qin Zhenzhen persisted, ¡°Just grant me an opportunity to try. Should it seed, we can continue; if not, we can discard the attempt. It won¡¯t be bothersome either way.¡±
With a nod of agreement, Grandma Qin eded to the n.
Secretly implementing a set of eye massage techniques she was familiar with, Qin Zhenzhen surreptitiously introduced drops of the mystical water into her grandmother¡¯s eyes.
¡°Grandma, do you experience any relief?¡±
Grandma Qin appeared to be relishing the sensation. ¡°This is wonderful, though I sense a peculiar sensation within my eyes. It¡¯s remarkably soothing.¡±
Despite her eyes being moist, there was an absence of tears ¨C a state she hadn¡¯t experienced in over four decades.
Qin Zhenzhen feigned astonishment. ¡°Grandma, are your eyes moist? If that¡¯s the case, then it¡¯s working!¡±
Grandma Qin disyed happiness, albeit with a subdued excitement. ¡°It¡¯s truly soothing. Should you find it convenient, you could administer the massage whenever you have the time.¡±
The experience had a touch of magic to it; uponpletion, the dryness that had persisted in her eyes was vanquished.
Yet, Grandma Qin¡¯s longing remained veiled ¡ª her thoughts fixated on regaining her ability to perceive light.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s smile conveyed her intention. ¡°Then I¡¯ll visit tomorrow for another session. If the oues remain positive, I¡¯ll apany you to the prefecture and conduct these massages regrly.¡±
Grandma Qin reciprocated the smile, though she posed a question, ¡°Are you jesting?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s tone turned earnest. ¡°Not in the least; I¡¯m wholeheartedlymitted.¡±
¡°We¡¯ve acquired a residence in the prefectural city ¨C a spacious abode with eight rooms and a courtyard. Yourfort is assured.¡±
¡°In a few days, we¡¯re headed to the prefecture. Su Bin¡¯s enrolling there for his studies, while Fourth Brother and I are establishing a workshop for crafting seasonings and soy sauce.¡±
¡°Grandma, you¡¯ve remained within Qin Vige for over four decades. Since Grandpa¡¯s passing, you¡¯ve scarcely ventured beyond our home. I¡¯ve yearned to take you outdoors for a leisurely stroll.¡±
Touched by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sentiments, Grandma Qin¡¯s emotions stirred.
¡°Give me some time to contemte.¡±
¡°Absolutely. I¡¯ll be back to massage you tomorrow.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart swelled with delight. It appeared that the mystical water on her fingertips held boundless power.
With steadfast determination, she held the belief that through her persistence, her grandmother would eventually regain the gift of sight.
The prospect of Grandma¡¯s restored vision also carried a weighty implication the Jiang Family would face a profound humiliation..
Chapter 226 - 226: True
Chapter 226: True
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the afternoon, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin arrived back at Qian Vige.
Following dinner, Su Bin convened a gathering with his siblings.
¡°Zhenzhen and I are nning to head to the prefecture in a few days.¡±
¡°As I mentioned earlier, we¡¯ve acquired a spacious house in the prefecture. It¡¯srge enough to amodate the entire family.¡±
¡°Furthermore, Zhenzhen intends to lease a space within the prefectural city to establish a workshop for crafting seasonings and soy sauce. She also envisions setting up a wellness center.¡±
¡°Sixth Sister and Fourth Brother have expressed their desire to learn from Zhenzhen. They¡¯re determined to apany us to the prefecture, unless they have a change of heart.¡±
Su Qing and Su Ning dered, ¡°Our minds are set. We¡¯remitted to going to the prefecture.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded affirmatively. ¡°As long as you¡¯re willing to learn, I¡¯ll certainly provide my guidance.¡±
Turning to Su Cheng, Su Bin addressed him, ¡°I¡¯m contemting enrolling you in studies.¡±
In the past, financial constraints prevented him from funding his siblings¡¯ education. However, he was now in a position to afford it and couldn¡¯t allow his Fifth Brother to remain uneducated.
Su Qing, on the other hand, was an exception, having already pursued two years of studies.
Su Cheng felt a pang of distress. ¡°Third Brother, could I possibly forgo education?¡±
Su Bin responded with seriousness, ¡°No!¡±
¡°Even if your aspirations don¡¯t involve reaching higher educational tiers, you must undergo two years of study initially.¡±
¡°Acquiring the ability to read and write broadens your horizons significantly. Regardless of your future path, you won¡¯t be susceptible to avoidable errors due to illiteracy.¡±
¡°Remember, our father chose to depart from the Marquis Mansion due to his principles, but every individual needs skills to bolster those principles.¡±
¡°It¡¯s only by empowering ourselves that we can provide sce to our father in the afterlife.¡¯
Su Bin¡¯s intentions were crystal clear to everyone.
Su Cheng cast his gaze downward in a mixture of understanding and embarrassment. ¡°I understand. I will follow your guidance, Third Brother.¡±
Simultaneously, a sigh of relief escaped him. Thankfully, his Third Brother hadn¡¯t stipted advancing to the next educational level.
His dread primarily revolved around the task of memorizing words. He¡¯d rather trek into the mountains to gather two liang of firewood thanmit to memorizing a single page of text and writing it out.
However, he did concede that his Third Brother was correct.
Their circumstances had shifted, rendering their former low-key approach obsolete. Their conviction rested in securing sustenance, a feat they considered paramount.
Having declined the proposition to return to the Marquis Mansion, they aspired to demonstrate their ability to lead a splendid life without relying on ancestral resources.
In the end, Su Bin posed a question to them. ¡°Sister and Second Brother, you¡¯re willing to apany us to the prefecture, right? It would be ideal if we could stay together as a family.¡±
Su Bin wasn¡¯t entirely certain about his brother¡¯s inclinations.
Being family, he shouldn¡¯t intrude excessively into his brother¡¯s affairs.
If his Second Brother still held affections for him, Su Bin could merely offer advice rather than impose directives concerning his circle of friends.
His Second Brother had a fiery temperament and a stubborn disposition, which sometimes proved exasperating among their siblings.
Should his Second Brother decide against joining them, Su Bin felt at a loss regarding his next steps.
In contrast, when it came to their sister, Su Bin perceived her as rtively easier to arrange.
She disyed diligence, proficiently managing household chores and tending to the children. In due course, if a suitable suitor emerged, she could potentially seek matrimony and establish a new household.
He could even facilitate his sister¡¯s learning under Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s guidance.
In the event that arranging a favorable marriage for his sister proved challenging, they could actively seek a suitable husband for her. In due course, he envisioned gifting her a home and a shop, ensuring she never endured mistreatment again..
Chapter 227 - 227: Bad Temper
Chapter 227: Bad Temper
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
However, Su Bin was taken by surprise when he heard his brother and sister¡¯s responses.
Turning his attention to Qin Zhenzhen, he inquired, ¡°Third Sister-inw, is your Fourth Brother also assisting you in the prefecture?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen affirmed with a nod, ¡°Yes, indeed! In addition to my Fourth Brother, my grandma will also be apanying us. But rest assured, the house is quite spacious with numerous rooms, providing ample living space.¡±
¡°It¡¯s certain that you won¡¯t be short of tasks if you decide to join them, ¡± he added, disying hisck of concern regarding his own role.
A content smile graced his features, radiating happiness as he continued, ¡°If your Fourth Brother is heading to the prefecture, I¡¯d be d to apany you.¡±
His statement caught the attention of the group, prompting inquiries about his reasoning.
Why was he choosing to apany Qin Silong?
Qin Zhenzhen regarded him with a puzzled expression.
After all, her Fourth Brother had once harbored intentions of harming him. Even if those intentions had subsided, it wasn¡¯t as if he had suddenly turned amiable towards him.
In a past dream of Qin Silong¡¯s, Su Bin had been depicted as being in by bandits along with his entire family.
Certainly, he must have sensed Qin Silong¡¯s lingering hostility. So, how could he appear so oblivious?
Su Ping rified his stance, ¡°Third Sister-inw, there¡¯s no ulterior motive behind my words. I¡¯m merely acknowledging your Fourth Brother¡¯s exceptional prowess in martial arts. Just the other day, he single-handedly engaged four assants dressed in ck and effortlessly incapacitated me with only two moves.¡±
¡°At that moment, I trulyprehended the disparity between my limited martial arts skills and your Fourth Brother¡¯s remarkable abilities.¡±
He then turned to Qin Zhenzhen for help.
¡°Truth be told, I¡¯m actually keen on acquiring some skills from your Fourth Brother, but I¡¯d greatly appreciate it if you could put in a good word on my behalf,¡± he admitted, his expression tinged with embarrassment.
¡°I¡¯m well aware that your Fourth Brother bears ill feelings towards me.¡±
¡°Past actions were my own doing. My temper used to be quite vtile, and I often resorted to yelling at people. However, I¡¯mmitted to rectifying this w in my demeanor moving forward.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found herself torn between amusement and exasperation.
In reality, her own four brothers weren¡¯t much better in terms of behavior.
Since her Fourth Brother¡¯s unsettling dream, she had diligently impressed upon her siblings that malevolent deeds would ultimately yield retribution. Consequently, her three brothers had gradually curbed their bully-like tendencies.
The ironyy in the fact that Su Bin remained oblivious to the reason for her Fourth Brother¡¯s disdain, attributing it to his past actions.
Even she couldn¡¯t deny her own reservations about him.
However, during this period of reflection, Qin Zhenzhen had tried to view his actions from an outsider¡¯s perspective.
In the fabricated narrative, he had orchestrated the raid that decimated the Qin Family, driven by a convoluted intery of historical grievances that had morphed him into a malevolent figure.
The original host¡¯s coerced marriage to Su Bin had alreadyid the foundation for his resentment towards the Qin Family.
Following the host¡¯s untimely demise, the four Qin brothers¡¯ attempt to murder Su Bin¡¯s own brother further stoked the fires of his fury.
Regrettably, this course of events resulted in unintended injuries, casting a heavy toll on his Fourth Brother, rendering him permanently debilitated.
Moreover, the Qin Family had been indemnified with all that Su Bin¡¯s family possessed. Consequently, he found himself a fugitive, unable to return home or gather his kin.
His misfortunes became a source of bitterness aimed squarely at the Qin Family.
In the years he spent as a bandit, he resorted to arson, murder, and pige, driven both by a struggle for survival and a skewed concept of societal justice.
Subsequently, Qin Silong spearheaded a military operation that encircled the bandits¡¯ stronghold. The veryir upon which he depended for survival met its obliteration, erasing the refuge he had clung to. Every member of the gang that inhabited the hideout faced their demise, and even he narrowly escaped decapitation at the hands of Qin Silong..
Chapter 228 - 228: Brother Shanmin’s Proposal
Chapter 228: Brother Shanmin¡¯s Proposal
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
All his life¡¯s experiences were intertwined with the Qin Family. He had nearly faced death, while Qin Silong had ascended in rank and amassed wealth. As the story¡¯s antagonist, a sense of irritation drove her to contemte eliminating the Qin Family. Yet, ironically, it was the Qin Family that had instigated the entire sequence of unfortunate events.
It was undeniable that these distressing episodes had yed a role in shaping his character. Considering this, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t reject him outright. Instead, she advised, ¡°If you¡¯re intent on learning from my Fourth Brother, you should seek his approval first.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll make sure to convey your message to my Fourth Brother.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen acquiesced, though she refrained from promising to advocate on his behalf in front of her brother.
¡°Thank you, Third Sister-inw!¡±
¡°In two days, I¡¯ll apany you to the prefecture.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll refrain from socializing with my friends henceforth.¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw, please inform your Fourth Brother that my interactions with my friends were never intended for wrongdoing but rather for safeguarding my family!¡±
¡°I genuinely pledge that I¡¯ll sever ties with them forever!¡±
He had contemted mentioning his aspiration to defend the country after mastering his skills, yet he believed that prioritizing the protection of his family was paramount.
As evidenced in the past, when Third Sister-inw narrowly escaped abduction by malefactors, he had nearly lost his life due to his own frailty.
Su Bin let out a sigh of relief. His Second Brother held strong convictions when it came to promises. If Qin Silong agreed to mentor him, it would greatly assist his cause.
He needn¡¯t worry about his Second Brother straying from the right path.
Qin Zhenzhen was well aware that he had associations with a diverse group of friends, and these connections had contributed to his path as a bandit.
But now, he was vowing to sever those ties?
Was he genuinely striving for a transformation?
Su Bin¡¯s gaze turned to Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°On behalf of my Second Brother, I extend my gratitude. Please stand up for him.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cheeks turned rosy.
Had Su Bin lost his mind?
There were no outsiders present, so why were they addressing each other with such affection?
His siblings were all secretly amused.
It seemed that his Third Brother had truly fallen for his Third Sister-inw.
Likewise, it appeared that Third Sister-inw had developed feelings for her Third Brother.
Concerns about a potential divorce seemed needless.
Though tempted to rebuke Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen restrained herself in the presence of his siblings.
Regardless, she intended to advise him against being overly theatrical when they were alone.
To relieve her embarrassment, Qin Zhenzhen shifted her attention to Su Lan.
¡°Sister, during your time in the prefecture, if you¡¯re interested, I could teach you the art of food therapy. You might even consider opening a shop.¡± However, Su Lan responded calmly, ¡°I have no intention of apanying you to the prefecture.¡±
This announcement surprised everyone. ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡±
After a brief hesitation, Su Lan disclosed her reasoning.
¡°Because I¡¯m nning to ept Qian Shanmin¡¯s proposal!¡±
Her words left everyone stunned.
Almost unanimously, they believed that a future for Su Lan and Qian Shanmin was an impossibility.
Once their true identities were unveiled, Qian Shanmin ceased to visit their residence and remained conspicuously absent from their surroundings.
He even vanished from the vige entirely.
Rumors circted that during a visit to his Third Aunt-inw¡¯s house, he was introduced to a potential match by his cousin¡¯s wife. This young woman hailed from the same vige as his Third Aunt-inw, characterized by her beauty and industrious nature..
Chapter 229 - 229: Confidence
Chapter 229: Confidence
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Some individuals even imed that Qian Shanmin paid a visit to his Second Aunt-inw¡¯s residence within the county, where his Second Aunt-inw introduced him to a young woman.
The general consensus was that, upon discovering the truth about his potential match, Qian Shanmin had seemingly relinquished his pursuit of their sister.
Upon observing their sister¡¯s unchanged expression in response to the rumors, they surmised that she held no particr interest in Brother Shanmin.
Little did they anticipate their sister¡¯s forting statement:
¡°What if it were true that Brother Shanmin found a spouse at his aunt¡¯s ce?
The shame I would endure.¡±
The first to inquire was Su Ning. ¡°Sister, are the rumors urate?¡±
With unwavering conviction, Su Lan replied, ¡°They are false.¡±
Su Ning remained perplexed. ¡°Sister, how can you be so sure?¡±
¡°Qian Xiaohua¡¯s grandmother¡¯s residence lies close to the home of Brother Shanmin¡¯s Third Aunt-inw. Brother Shanmin¡¯s Third Aunt-inw requested that Qian Xiaohua¡¯s mother ry a message to him.¡±
¡°I candidly informed him, through the letter, that I intended to y the role of matchmaker.¡±
Su Lan¡¯sposure endured.
¡°Allow me to disclose the truth. On the third day following Brother Shanmin¡¯s return, he earnestly revealed his feelings for me. At that moment, I hadn¡¯t yet contemted this possibility, and thus, I advised him of my need for consideration. I suggested that I¡¯d also discuss the matter with my siblings.¡±
¡°I had intended to confer with all of you once I made a decision. However, Aunt harbored intentions of introducing her niece to Brother Shanmin.
Consequently, she brought her directly to Brother Shanmin¡¯s residence, a fact that became known throughout the entire vige.¡±
¡°After Brother Shanmin declined both Aunt and her niece¡¯s proposal, Aunt approached me. She voiced her opinion that I wasn¡¯t a suitable match for Brother Shanmin. Furthermore, she insinuated that should Brother Shanmin and I unite, rumors would circte, asserting that we had been involved before my marriage.¡±
¡°Aunt asserts that if this rumor spreads, Wang Yi¡¯s family could lodge aint with the authorities, using us of adultery. They might demandpensation, and even seek the return of Xiaoyu. In the worst scenario, Brother Shanmin might face legal consequences.¡±
¡°While I don¡¯t entirely subscribe to everything Aunt ims, the potential repercussions do give me pause. After all, the fallout would be detrimental for me, Xiaoyu, and Brother Shanmin. Our names would be tarnished by idle chatter. ¡±
¡°I initially began distancing myself from Brother Shanmin, yet he remained resolute. Hemunicated, in his own determined manner, the sincerity of his feelings for me. He demonstrated that his limp didn¡¯t hinder him significantly. Should I choose to marry him, he vowed to shield me from adversity.¡±
¡°During that period, I found myself trapped in a state of anguish and indecision.¡±
¡°Brother Shanmin assured me that if I genuinely feared gossip, he would patiently await my decision. He made it clear that even if I never married, he would continue to wait.¡±
¡°After our true identities were revealed, we had one encounter. He said,
¡®Lan, your days of happiness have arrived. I wish you eternal joy.¡¯¡±
¡°He refrained from prying into my choice, and I withheld my decision from him. Yet, I recognized that he wouldn¡¯t relinquish hope easily.¡±
¡°Upon hearing Su Lan¡¯s words, a hush fell over the gathering.
For a fleeting moment, Su Lan bore the countenance of a girl immersed in the throes of newfound affection.
Her faith in Brother Shanmin radiated unwaveringly.
But what if Qian Shanmin¡¯s sense of inferiority prevailed, causing him to embrace the girl rmended by his great-aunt..
Turning to Su Lan, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Upon marrying Brother Shanmin, do you envision remaining in Qian Vige, or do you entertain other prospects?¡±
It hadn¡¯t urred to her that she hailed from the prestigious Marquis Mansion. Even in remarriage, financial prosperity was likely a paramount consideration.
Su Lan said, ¡°I n to continue living at the Qian Vige..¡±
Chapter 230 - 230: Happiness
Chapter 230: Happiness
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Before Qin Zhenzhen could even inquire, Su Lan preemptively shared her thoughts.
¡°I¡¯ve given it thorough consideration. Even if I were to return to the Marquis Mansion and have my status elevated, I¡¯d still be a farmer¡¯s wife.¡±
¡°I¡¯m oblivious to the ways of affluent women in town¡ªtheir customs and protocols are foreign to me.¡±
¡°Even if I were to marry into wealth someday, there¡¯s no assurance they wouldn¡¯t disdain me.¡±
¡°Uniting with Xiaoyu is an even more formidable challenge.¡±
¡°Furthermore, opulent men often keep multiple wives and concubines. I abhor the idea of women vying for one man.¡±
¡°I¡¯d rather reside in Qian Vige, continuing as a farmer¡¯s wife.¡±
¡°Brother Shanmin is a steadfast soul. I have faith that after we¡¯re married, he¡¯ll treat us kindly. With diligence, we can undoubtedly lead a good life.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not preupied with opulence. All I yearn for is a tranquil existence.¡±
¡°Moreover, even in Qian Vige, sustenance can¡¯t solelye from tilling the fields. Brother Shanmin has worldly experience and desires to delve intomerce.¡±
¡°Observe the vigers from several hamlets harvesting yams in the mountains. They¡¯ve sculpted the hillsides into ridges post-harvest and intend to cultivate yamse spring.¡±
¡°If our vigers can cover the nearby mountains with yam crops, our yield will burgeon.¡±
¡°We¡¯ll have a steady source of yams to purchase.¡±
¡°At any rate, my resolve is firm. Once Brother Shanmin returns, I¡¯ll express my decision unequivocally-I won¡¯t venture to town. I¡¯m ready to be his wife.
¡°I hope you can support my choice.¡±
Su Bin and the others had no objections to Su Lan¡¯s pronouncement.
All eyes turned to Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen, their gazes expectant for a response. These two were the family¡¯s pirs of strength.
Qin Zhenzhen, much like Su Bin, held concerns. She worried that Brother Shanmin might perceive himself as inadequate for her sister, leading him to opt for another woman. Such a scenario would undoubtedly cause her sister further distress.
Yet, the flip side was that if Brother Shanmin didn¡¯t consult her sister, he might assume he¡¯s not in her league and change his mind. Such wavering wasn¡¯t a desirable trait either.
Perhaps she could guide her sister¡¯s ideas and introduce her to the prefecture¡¯s offerings.
Still, Su Bin yearned for her sister¡¯s fortune to change. She believed that once Su Lan married Brother Shanmin, he would surely cherish her and Xiaoyu, paving the way for a blissful life.
With this conviction, Su Bin voiced, ¡°If that¡¯s your choice, I won¡¯t oppose it.¡± Their unified endorsement echoed forth for Su Lan.
Su Cheng even proposed, ¡°Elder Brother, if Sister stays in Qian Vige, I¡¯d like to remain there to apany her and Xiaoyu. I can study in town, arriving early and returningte. Over and above, I can oversee the household. During breaks, I could contribute to the family.¡± Su Bin concurred, his agreement unhesitating.
¡°Absolutely.¡±
Sending their fifth sibling for education primarily aimed at instilling literacy. The choice of location was secondary.
His diligent study habits made advancement likely, irrespective of the learning environment.
From a young age, he possessed a penchant for cultivation, often toying with the vegetable plots at the rear. He¡¯d nurture crops the vigers overlooked and introduce unique varieties.
Perhaps this affinity for Qian Vige was why he resisted departing. Staying put, he could tend to his sister and Xiaoyu, ensuring their well-being..
Chapter 231 - 232: Back to the Marquis Mansion
Chapter 232: Back to the Marquis Mansion
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen concurred with Su Bin¡¯s decision,prehending the nuanced manner in which he managed affairs.
Undoubtedly, Su Bin assumed the role of the antagonist within the narrative.
His demeanor exhibited traits of narrow-mindedness, vindictiveness, suspicion, ruthlessness, dominance, and control.
Yet, he also disyed a hint of cunning, decisiveness, and adeptness in adopting alternative perspectives to address challenges.
Illustratively, when faced with the situation involving Qian Shanmin and his sister, he devised an unconventional approach to assess Qian Shanmin¡¯s intentions.
His motivation, however, was rooted in his sister¡¯s well-being.
Upon the dissemination of news regarding the entire Su Bin family¡¯s migration to town, a wave of vigers converged upon Su Bin¡¯s residence.
Evidently, Qian Dashan and his family were amongst the first to arrive.
Dragging Su Bin¡¯s grandmother along, Ms. Lin and Qian Dashan made an arduous journey to his abode.
Upon their arrival, she was visibly breathless.
Motivated solely by their own gain, Ms. Lin and Qian Dashan disyed a conspicuous disregard for their mother¡¯s welfare.
Even though Su Bin had previously declined their proposal, they persisted in their pursuits.
Qian Dashan, with lowered head and humility, implored, ¡°Su Bin, your family leads a prosperous life in town. I beseech you to showpassion for Uncle and our family. Considering your grandmother¡¯s kind treatment of you, we entreat you to bestow upon us the yam fields in the mountains.¡±
¡°In turn, we shall take over the yam trade, a gesture that would evoke our profound gratitude.¡±
¡°We shall also cultivate your fields and rent them, as before, whilst attending to your household.¡±
¡°Regard it as an act of filial piety towards your grandmother, and an act of mercy towards your cousin Erhu, enabling him to secure meaningful employment and a prospective spouse, preventing his future bereft ofpanionship.¡±
¡°Failure to secure a spouse would invariably lead to your grandmother¡¯s departure with unresolved regrets!¡±
Qian Dashan¡¯s audacity in uttering such words was truly astounding.
However, let¡¯s delve into Su Bin¡¯s character.
He loomed as the family¡¯s principal antagonist!
Observing Qian Dashan¡¯s theatrics akin to a spectator at a performance, Su Bin promptly rejected him with sinct retorts.
¡°Entertain no thoughts about what rightfully belongs to us. Unless your cognitive faculties fail you utterly!¡±
¡°Recall your past transgressions. We shall not bestow our treasures upon strangers!¡±
¡°Persist in tormenting grandma, and I shall not hesitate to lodge a formalint of elderly maltreatment with the authorities!¡±
¡°Do not doubt my resolve. If disbelief persists, put it to the test!¡±
Upon this firm rebuttal, Qian Dashan and his kin departed from Su Bin¡¯s abode.
Next in line were the vige chief¡¯s progeny, spanning three generations, all having held the mantle of vige leadership.
The vige chief visited Su Bin¡¯s dwelling with a dual purpose¡ªto secure the expanse of yam fields and to procure yams.
Addressing Su Bin, he evoked their shared history, saying, ¡°When your father entered the Qian Family¡¯s vige, it was my own father who extended a hospitable hand. He rendered aid tirelessly. Considering our historical camaraderie, could you perhaps contemte relinquishing the yam fields nestled in the mountains¡¡¯
¡°Our forebear divulged every detail to us, etched indelibly in our memory.¡±
Yet, Su Bin¡¯s patience waned, and he preemptively halted the chief¡¯s appeal. ¡°Perchance, the vige chief has misconstrued our intentions. While we depart for town the day after tomorrow, we have never intimated a permanent absence.¡±
¡°Parting with the mountain yam fields and engaging in yam slice transactions is not feasible.
The vige chief¡¯s countenance clouded with disappointment, apanied by a tinge of skepticism. ¡°Are you not nning to return to the Marquis Mansion?¡±
Su Bin responded, ¡°Our intentions regarding the Marquis Mansion are irrelevant.¡¯
¡°When our father embraced the Qian Family, it was undoubtedly due to the allure of these picturesque mountains and crystalline waters. The inhabitants are unpretentious, and the vige chief, a man of reason..¡±
Chapter 232 - 233: Stealing
Chapter 233: Stealing
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°So, since our family has deep roots here, our attachment to this ce is strong.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s skillful ttery put the vige chief at ease, causing him to overlook those who held grievances against Su Bin.
The chief had no intention of leaving Qian Vige, nor was he willing to part with his possessions.
What held even greater significance was that, as long as Su Bin and hispanions remained in Qian Vige, they would bask in the honor conferred by Su Bin¡¯s future esteemed position.
With this in mind, the vige chief¡¯s mood lifted considerably.
Leaving Su Bin¡¯s residence, the chief departed with a sense of contentment.
Qin Zhenzhen turned her gaze toward Su Bin, fully aware of his thoughts.
He aimed to avoid groveling excessively before the vige chief, for he understood the repercussions it could entail.
If their sister was to live under the chief¡¯s guardianship, it was imperative not to alienate him.
This young manprehended when to yield and when to assert himself, exhibiting remarkable foresight.
The third group, led by Qian Duoduo and his parents, followed.
When Su Bin¡¯s father was alive, he shared a cordial rapport with Qian Duoduo¡¯s father.
Upon learning of Su Bin¡¯s family¡¯s impending relocation to town, they seized the opportunity to pay a visit.
Su Cheng and Qian Duoduo had been close friends; had the incident involving stolen corn not urred, their bond would have persisted as fraternal.
Qian Duoduo approached Su Cheng and inquired, ¡°Do you still harbor resentment over our previous sh?¡±
Initially, Su Cheng nursed animosity toward Qian Duoduo. However, after receiving multiple apologies, his enmity waned.
Nheless, Su Cheng¡¯s forgiveness wasn¡¯t bestowed without reservations.
Sixth Sister¡¯s assertion was valid: Qian Duoduo had indeed schemed to implicate him by nting corn within their field.
Maintaining such a friendship was untenable.
Third Sister-inw¡¯s assessment proved urate.
Like seeks out like.
Proximity to thepany would undoubtedly draw suspicion.
A child who pilfers needles in youth may well grow to steal money.
Qian Duoduo had a history of thievery during his vige days, with the pilfering of corns not constituting his first transgression.
With these considerations in mind, Su Cheng candidly addressed Qian Duoduo, ¡°I¡¯ll admit, I held a strong dislike for you initially. However, as time passed, that sentiment faded.¡¯
¡°But I¡¯ve alsoe to realize that our paths aren¡¯t aligned.¡± ¡°I¡¯d prefer if you didn¡¯t associate with me any longer.¡±
Qian Duoduo found himself bewildered.
His parents had intentions to purchase yam fields from Su Cheng¡¯s family, and he had contemted seeking Su Cheng¡¯s assistance. Yet, he hadn¡¯t anticipated Su Cheng severing ties so abruptly.
Reflecting on their past interactions, anger surged within Qian Duoduo. ¡°I used to share whatever I had to eat with you. Now that you¡¯ve climbed higher, you¡¯re abandoning our friendship?¡±
Su Cheng shook his head. ¡°Do you truly not understand, or are you merely feigning ignorance?¡±
Qian Duoduo was taken aback. Had he assumed their identities fundamentally changed following the corn incident?
In reality, even before Su Cheng upied a prominent role, their camaraderie had already dwindled.
Su Cheng clenched his teeth and spoke with intensity, ¡°I¡¯ve shared meals with you, and you with me. If you believe you¡¯re at a loss, I¡¯ll make it right!¡±
Qian Duoduo was engulfed in humiliation, prompting him to abruptly exit Su Cheng¡¯s dwelling.
Inwardly, Su Cheng mused, ¡°I hope youprehend that theft remains theft, regardless. ¡±
On the third day, Qian Shanmin reappeared in Qian Vige.
Su Ping conveyed the information he had gathered to Su Bin and Qin
Zhenzhen.
Qian Shanmin had visited his Third Aunt-inw¡¯s abode.
While his Third Aunt-inw did introduce a girl to him, Qian Shanmin rejected the proposition. He informed his Third Aunt-inw¡¯s family that he had already set his sights on someone he fancied.
Qian Shanmin¡¯s presence at his Third Aunt-inw¡¯s residence was due to his son¡¯s ailment¡ªa twisted spine that demanded prolonged convalescence, rendering him incapable of strenuousbor..
Chapter 233 - 233: Stealing
Chapter 233: Stealing
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°So, since our family has deep roots here, our attachment to this ce is strong.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s skillful ttery put the vige chief at ease, causing him to overlook those who held grievances against Su Bin.
The chief had no intention of leaving Qian Vige, nor was he willing to part with his possessions.
What held even greater significance was that, as long as Su Bin and hispanions remained in Qian Vige, they would bask in the honor conferred by Su Bin¡¯s future esteemed position.
With this in mind, the vige chief¡¯s mood lifted considerably.
Leaving Su Bin¡¯s residence, the chief departed with a sense of contentment.
Qin Zhenzhen turned her gaze toward Su Bin, fully aware of his thoughts.
He aimed to avoid groveling excessively before the vige chief, for he understood the repercussions it could entail.
If their sister was to live under the chief¡¯s guardianship, it was imperative not to alienate him.
This young manprehended when to yield and when to assert himself, exhibiting remarkable foresight.
The third group, led by Qian Duoduo and his parents, followed.
When Su Bin¡¯s father was alive, he shared a cordial rapport with Qian Duoduo¡¯s father.
Upon learning of Su Bin¡¯s family¡¯s impending relocation to town, they seized the opportunity to pay a visit.
Su Cheng and Qian Duoduo had been close friends; had the incident involving stolen corn not urred, their bond would have persisted as fraternal.
Qian Duoduo approached Su Cheng and inquired, ¡°Do you still harbor resentment over our previous sh?¡±
Initially, Su Cheng nursed animosity toward Qian Duoduo. However, after receiving multiple apologies, his enmity waned.
Nheless, Su Cheng¡¯s forgiveness wasn¡¯t bestowed without reservations.
Sixth Sister¡¯s assertion was valid: Qian Duoduo had indeed schemed to implicate him by nting corn within their field.
Maintaining such a friendship was untenable.
Third Sister-inw¡¯s assessment proved urate.
Like seeks out like.
Proximity to thepany would undoubtedly draw suspicion.
A child who pilfers needles in youth may well grow to steal money.
Qian Duoduo had a history of thievery during his vige days, with the pilfering of corns not constituting his first transgression.
With these considerations in mind, Su Cheng candidly addressed Qian Duoduo, ¡°I¡¯ll admit, I held a strong dislike for you initially. However, as time passed, that sentiment faded.¡¯
¡°But I¡¯ve alsoe to realize that our paths aren¡¯t aligned.¡± ¡°I¡¯d prefer if you didn¡¯t associate with me any longer.¡±
Qian Duoduo found himself bewildered.
His parents had intentions to purchase yam fields from Su Cheng¡¯s family, and he had contemted seeking Su Cheng¡¯s assistance. Yet, he hadn¡¯t anticipated Su Cheng severing ties so abruptly.
Reflecting on their past interactions, anger surged within Qian Duoduo. ¡°I used to share whatever I had to eat with you. Now that you¡¯ve climbed higher, you¡¯re abandoning our friendship?¡±
Su Cheng shook his head. ¡°Do you truly not understand, or are you merely feigning ignorance?¡±
Qian Duoduo was taken aback. Had he assumed their identities fundamentally changed following the corn incident?
In reality, even before Su Cheng upied a prominent role, their camaraderie had already dwindled.
Su Cheng clenched his teeth and spoke with intensity, ¡°I¡¯ve shared meals with you, and you with me. If you believe you¡¯re at a loss, I¡¯ll make it right!¡±
Qian Duoduo was engulfed in humiliation, prompting him to abruptly exit Su Cheng¡¯s dwelling.
Inwardly, Su Cheng mused, ¡°I hope youprehend that theft remains theft, regardless. ¡±
On the third day, Qian Shanmin reappeared in Qian Vige.
Su Ping conveyed the information he had gathered to Su Bin and Qin
Zhenzhen.
Qian Shanmin had visited his Third Aunt-inw¡¯s abode.
While his Third Aunt-inw did introduce a girl to him, Qian Shanmin rejected the proposition. He informed his Third Aunt-inw¡¯s family that he had already set his sights on someone he fancied.
Qian Shanmin¡¯s presence at his Third Aunt-inw¡¯s residence was due to his son¡¯s ailment¡ªa twisted spine that demanded prolonged convalescence, rendering him incapable of strenuousbor..
Chapter 234 - 234: Happy Sister
Chapter 234: Happy Sister
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
At Qian Shan¡¯s great-aunt¡¯s residence, all the strenuous tasks fell solely upon his great-aunt¡¯s daughter-inw.
The onset of winter was still some time away, and the avable firewood at home proved insufficient to kindle the fires.
Qian Shanmin extended his offer to assist his Third Aunt-inw in the task of chopping firewood up in the mountains.
This act of aid persisted over numerous days.
However, upon learning that Su Lan and her family were preparing to journey to the nearby town, Qian Shanmin hastened his return to the vige.
That very evening, he openly ventured to Su Bin¡¯s household.
His intent wasn¡¯t necessarily to rekindle a rtionship with Su Lan. His aspiration was more rooted in reconnecting with her, allowing thoughts to linger about the prospect of future encounters.
Desiring to present a gift to Su Lan, he discovered her absence in the room.
Abstaining from inquiring about her whereabouts, he engaged in conversation with those present for a brief interval.
Yet, his demeanor betrayed his preupation.
Qin Zhenzhen, having reached her threshold for his distracted disposition, nudged Su Bin, having already assessed his capabilities. What other choice remained?
Only then did Su Bin divulge to Qian Shanmin.
¡°Brother Shanmin, my sister is at the back. She wishes to speak with you.¡±
¡°She has a matter to discuss with me?¡±
Qian Shanmin stood momentarily bewildered, beforeprehending the situation. Swiftly, he made his way to the backyard.
Despite his agitation, he embraced the prospect of being teased, if it meant hastening to her presence.
That evening¡¯s sky featured the radiance of the moon.
On the stone table within the backyard¡¯s pavilion, an assortment of snacks wasid out. Su Lan upied a seat at the table, her gaze fixed upon the silvery moonlight overhead, lost in contemtion.
Outside the pavilion, Su Ning engaged in yful antics with Xiaoyu.
Deliberately slowing her pace, Su Ning provided Xiaoyu the opportunity to glimpse a chance of catching her, yet she retained a level of elusiveness.
With each yful attempt, Su Ning offered words of encouragement to Xiaoyu.
¡°You can do it! Run faster, and you¡¯ll catch me!¡±
As they drew close during these moments, Xiaoyu couldn¡¯t resist seeking su Lan¡¯s intervention.
¡°Mom, please hurry,e help me catch Aunt!¡± ¡°Aunt promised to make yam bean candied haws for me if I catch her!¡±
¡°I really want some yam bean candied haws!¡±
Su Lan returned to the present moment with a smile. ¡°Silly child, if I assist you, it wouldn¡¯t be fair!¡±
Xiaoyu defended herself. ¡°Of course it¡¯s fair! Aunt said that if I manage to catch her, it¡¯s valid. She never mentioned anything about not enlisting help.¡±
¡°Aunt, am I right?¡±
Su Ning chuckled. ¡°Absolutely, Xiaoyu is absolutely right. If you can convince your mother to join in chasing me, then I¡¯m ready to ept defeat!¡± Her intentionsy in bringing joy to her sister¡¯s heart.
She sensed her sister carrying a burdentely, possibly concerning her marriage and Qian Shanmin¡¯s situation.
This was thest evening, and Qian Shanmin had yet to approach her sister.
Likewise, her sister had refrained from seeking him out.
Su Ning harbored concerns that her sister¡¯s desires might remain unfulfilled, yet she felt powerless to assist her directly.
Third Brother had stipted that no one should summon Brother Shanmin to their home prior to his own arrival. Furthermore, they were cautioned against hinting to Brother Shanmin about their sister¡¯s willingness to marry him.
Observing her aunt¡¯s willingness to aid, Xiaoyu promptly sought her mother¡¯s presence.
Witnessing her daughter¡¯s enjoyment, Su Lan stepped out of the pavilion,pelled to follow.
In the Wang Family¡¯s environment, Xiaoyu¡¯s liveliness had been curtailed. Regrettably, she had been relegated to the role of a passive observer, learning to maintain a quiet demeanor from a tender age in an effort to minimize her presence.
As Su Lan emerged from the pavilion, her gaze fell upon Qian Shanmin in the backyard.
¡°Lan..
¡°Brother Shanmin¡¡±
Almost in perfect synchrony, their voices echoed each other¡¯s names..
Chapter 235 - 235: Engagement
Chapter 235: Engagement
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Upon spotting Brother Shanmin in the vicinity, Su Ning¡¯s countenance eased as she released a sigh of relief. She intended to provide her sister and Brother Shanmin an opportunity to converse privately.
Guiding Xiaoyu into the chamber, Su Ning suggested, ¡°The hour growste; shall we partake in some delectable yam bean candied haws?¡±
Innocently, Xiaoyu queried Su Ning, ¡°Auntie, I haven¡¯t even tagged you, and yet you¡¯re preparing candied haws with yam beans for me?¡±
With a genial smile, Su Ning elucidated, ¡°You¡¯re already sping Auntie¡¯s hand, effectively tagging her. Abandon hesitation, and let us gather yam beans for crafting candied haws. The process demands significant effort.¡±
Frequently ncing back at Su Lan, Xiaoyu inquired, ¡°Won¡¯t you lend a hand?¡±
¡°Certainly, your mother will join us momentarily.¡±
Only then did Xiaoyu happily reenter the room.
Qian Shanmin and Su Lan¡¯s conversation wasn¡¯t lengthy, yet it covered all the topics they had wished to address. Despite being just 22 years old, Su Lan had already surpassed the age of first love awakening in ancient times. Her previous experience of a failed marriage had bestowed her with aposed outlook towards the prospect of remarrying.
Qian Shanmin, already a mature individual, managed to contain the tion simmering within him, focusing on what Su Lan had assured him.
Upon returning to the residence from the rear garden, Su Bin and his siblings congregated in the living room, awaiting their return.
Before his brother-inw and sister-inw, Qian Shanmin intended to make yet another pledge.
With the unanimous approval of Su Bin and the rest, the rtionship between Qian Shanmin and Su Lan was solidified.
The notion of their wedding, however, wasn¡¯t pursued with urgency.
In fact, Su Bin believed that Qian Shanmin and his sister needed time to be acquainted with each other.
Qian Shanmin concurred wholeheartedly. His sole desire was to be with Su Lan; the timeline of their wedding, even if it spanned two years, was of little concern.
As the sun rose the following day, Su Bin personally journeyed to the vige chief¡¯s abode, enlisting him as a witness for his sister and Qian Shanmin¡¯s engagement.
Thus, he assumed the role of a matchmaker.
The vige chief eagerly embraced his position as a witness, hisughter resonating and yful jabs aimed at Qian Shanmin. Atst, the clouds dispersed, unveiling the radiant moon.
Receiving presents from Su Bin, the vige chief¡¯s joy escted further. He thumped his chest and dered, ¡°Worry not, for I am the matchmaker; none in the vige would dare to indulge in idle gossip!¡±
Any dissenting voice would be met with retribution as per the vige¡¯s regtions!
From that very instant, he pledged to prevent any transgressions against Su Bin¡¯s family within the vige¡¯s confines.
The continuation of Su Bin¡¯s residency within Qian Vige became an immensely favorable circumstance.
Should Su Bin ascend to Primus status, the government pledged to finance the construction of a central square within the vige.
Su Bin orchestrated this to ensure that the vige chief would discourage gossip among the vigers and curtail any disturbances from his uncle¡¯s household.
Particrly, when matters were brought up by their aunt, the vige chief wielded the most influence.
Word of Qian Shanmin and Su Lan¡¯s betrothal swiftly permeated the entire vige.
Most vigers possessed a straightforward outlook. Upon learning of the engagement, the majority extended their heartfelt congrattions to Qian Shanmin and Su Lan.
Yet, a handful of small-minded individuals covertly indulged in mockery and derision.
Ms. Lin¡¯s exasperation had reached a boiling point, tempting her to unleash a torrent of curses for a solid three days and nights. Her frustration stemmed from her failure to secure any of the desired advantages.
However, just before Ms. Lin could erupt into a fit of rage, the vige chief interjected with a stern admonishment.
¡°Ms. Lin, heed my words!¡±
¡°Qian Shanmin and Su Lan are now betrothed, with me serving as their matchmaker.. Desist from any attempts to introduce your niece to Qian Shanmin!¡±
Chapter 236 - 236: Save Qjan Erhu
Chapter 236: Save Qjan Erhu
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Furthermore, should you choose to propagate any baseless rumors about them, rest assured that I will enforce the vige regtions as appropriate!¡± After advising Ms. Lin, the vige chief proceeded to caution Qian Dashan.
Although Ms. Lin felt a surge of irritation, she refrained from defying the vige chief, opting instead to vent her frustration through muttered criticisms.
¡°He can be easily swayed for a meager sum! What sort of character does he possess? He shares the same ancestry as us, tracing back to our great-grandparents! Should he continue disregarding his rtions, he¡¯ll undoubtedly face shame when reuniting with his forefathers in the afterlife!¡± ¡°Why didn¡¯t he invoke the vige regtions when ournd was sold?¡±
Qian Dashan intervened, halting Ms. Lin¡¯s tirade. ¡°Cease this now, or we may attract unwarranted attention!¡±
¡°The vige chief undoubtedly has his reasons for his actions!¡±
¡°He¡¯s acting in the best interest of the entire vige. Ourmunity will suffer if we antagonize them.¡±
¡°Maintain your distance and avoid any affront!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s vexation only escted; she branded Qian Dashan a coward.
Qian Dashan¡¯s patience finally waned, prompting him to deliver a resounding p across her face.
¡°You ignorant fool!¡±
¡°Do you grasp that our entire vige ridicules us?¡±
¡°Purely due to your foolish prattle! Solely because of your malicious nature! You¡¯re severing our ties with well-off rtives and transforming them into strangers!¡±
Losing herposure, Ms. Lin engaged in a physical altercation with Qian Dashan.
¡°I¡¯m the one speaking nonsense? Have you been bestowed with eloquence?
Crafty and devious, isn¡¯t your avarice for money quite evident?¡±
¡°You¡¯ve estranged yourself from them through deceitful dealings, pocketing their funds. What relevance does that hold for me?¡±
Qian Dashan found himself increasingly vexed. Despite Ms. Lin¡¯s persistent strikes, he refrained from physically pushing her away.
As a man, he certainly possessed greater physical strength than Ms. Lin. Yet, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to strike her, fearing the potential consequences that could lead to her injury.
Meanwhile, Grandma Su Bin was aware of their altercation, yet her attempts to intervene were futile. Neither party paid heed to her, continuing their brawl without restraint.
She could only sigh inwardly, pondering how she ended up with a son who exhibited such reckless behavior. Topound matters, he had married a woman with equally heedless tendencies ¨C a prodigal daughter-inw indeed. While entangled in their heated exchange, a viger arrived, bearing urgent news.
¡°Qian Dashan, your son was involved in a brawl in town and has suffered leg injuries¡¡±
Qian Dashan and Ms. Lin were stunned. Ms. Lin ceased her assault on Qian Dashan.
¡°Could you repeat that?¡±
The messenger reiterated the distressing information.
Taken aback, Qian Dashan and Ms. Lin absorbed the gravity of the situation, swiftly making their way towards the town.
Su Bin and the others had initially nned to depart for the prefecture early in the morning. However, due to the engagement of Qian Shanmin and Su Lan, they postponed their departure to share a midday meal together.
The intention was to set out for the townter in the afternoon.
Having just concluded their lunch, an agitated Qian Dashan abruptly burst into their home, his demeanor distraught as he copsed to his knees.
¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife, I implore you to save Erhu!¡±
¡°We will forever be indebted to your benevolence¡¡±
As he spoke, he began to strike himself on the face, the sound of each blow echoing in the room.
p! p! p!
His strikes were forceful, causing Qian Dashan¡¯s face to start bleeding.
¡°We acknowledge our past wrongdoings. We acknowledge the injustice we¡¯ve done to you, and we willingly ept any retribution you deem fit¡¡± ¡°But Erhu is meless in all of this¡ He¡¯s never been involved¡
¡°He¡¯s a mere 18 years old¡ I cannot bear the thought of him perishing¡¡±
By the end of his appeal, Qian Dashan¡¯s words devolved into incoherent rambling.
Qin Zhenzhen turned her gaze to Su Bin, silently seeking his input on whether to intervene and save Qian Erhu.
In honesty, she was not a paragon of virtue. Both Ms. Lin and Qian Dashan had proven themselves unworthy of salvation..
Chapter 237 - 237: Not Saved
Chapter 237: Not Saved
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qian Erhu found himself burdened with a lineage that mirrored his parents¡¯ unfavorable traits, cultivating a reputation as a troubled individual spiraling further down a destructive path.
However, in contrast to his parents, Qian Erhu exhibited a greater degree of rationality and restraint.
The potential demise of Qian Erhu, coupled with the loss of his sole heir, would undeniably cast a shadow over Grandma Su Bin¡¯s well-being.
This impending tragedy deeply unsettled Qin Zhenzhen, yet she refrained from admitting her willingness to intervene for their salvation.
She knew that yielding to Su Bin¡¯s counsel was the sensible course of action.
Meanwhile, Qian Dashan continued to physically berate himself, his own palm colliding with his face in self-punishment.
Frustration lined Su Bin¡¯s forehead as she demanded, ¡°Cease this self-inflicted punishment! Exin the situation!¡±
Her patience for such behavior was threadbare; individuals of this ilk vexed her profoundly.
Though Qian Dashan¡¯s intention behind striking himself was to atone for his past misdeeds, Su Bin¡¯s concern for her grandmother¡¯s fragility kept her from indulging in this matter.
What was the significance? One less burden for their vige to shoulder.
¡°I¡ I am not sure what happened¡ but Erhu¡¯s condition is critical now,¡± Qian Dashan choked on his words, tears streaming down his face as a man unashamed of his vulnerability.
An informed viger proceeded to narrate the events that had transpired.
Qian Erhu had shed with an individual within the town, the disagreement escting into a dispute where both parties used each other of negligence.
Inevitably, a physical confrontation unfolded, resulting in a p to Qian Erhu¡¯s countenance. In response, he seized a pole, culminating in a violent collision that left him with a fractured skull.
Coincidentally, the man involved was apanied by severalpanions who swiftly joined the scene. Confronted with the sight of theirrade¡¯s head injury and profuse bleeding, they engaged byunching a barrage of punches and kicks against Qian Erhu.
Having scant energy left, Qian Erhu was overmatched by the overwhelming force of four or five assants.
Observing Qian Erhu sprawled on the ground, bloodstained and battered, their assault ceased, culminating in their departure from the scene.
Subsequently, Qian Erhu was transported to the town¡¯s medical facility. The attending physician diagnosed a broken leg alongside a sizable head wound, expressing suspicion of potential brain trauma that had plunged him into unconsciousness.
Compounded by substantial blood loss, Qian Erhu¡¯splexion had paled significantly.
The medical verdict was grim: Qian Erhu¡¯s chances of survival were minimal.
Drenched in sorrow, Qian Dashan and Ms. Lin grappled with the harsh reality. A suggestion surfaced that their niece-inw, Qin Zhenzhen, held the mantle of the Jiang Family¡¯s heir.
Renowned as the Miracle Doctor, there existed a glimmer of hope that she might possess the means to salvage the situation through her expertise.
Qian Dashan¡¯s epiphany struck,pelling him to embark on the journey of conveying his injured son back to the vige.
However, a stern directive from the doctor thwarted this n; relocating Qian Erhu could potentially hasten his demise.
Urgency spurred Qian Dashan¡¯s return to the vige, as he hastened to seek guidance amidst this dire circumstance.
So that waswhat was happening.
Observing Su Bin¡¯s silence, Qin Zhenzhen refrained from speaking her mind.
Qian Erhu seemed to be dealing with a head injury.
If it¡¯s a serious case, even with the spiritual water, saving him might not be possible.
However, it hinges on the circumstances.
Just then, Su Ping entered the room and approached Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen cautiously. ¡°Third Brother, Third Sister-inw, could we¡ help him?¡±
Both Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen found this perplexing. Su Ping held a stronger disdain for Qian Dashan¡¯s family than anyone else, yet he was acting contrary to that sentiment.
Qin Zhenzhen whispered back, ¡°I might not have the means to save him.¡±
He implored once more, ¡°Could we at least give it a shot?¡±
¡°I just found out that the people who harmed Qian Erhu are my acquaintances, and they were here for me¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen swiftly grasped the situation.
Upon learning his affiliation as the Marquis Mansion¡¯s young master, hispanions were likely attempting to extract favors from him. However, before they could reach him, Qian Erhu was grievously injured.
He was urging her to treat Qian Erhu.
Ironically, if not for him, Qian Erhu wouldn¡¯t have found himself in this predicament..
Chapter 238 - 238: Saving People
Chapter 238: Saving People
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qian Erhu should never have fallen victim to the brutality inflicted by those individuals. Shockingly, they subjected Qian Erhu to a merciless beating, crossing all bounds of decency.
Their actions were egregiously inhumane.
For the very first time, he realized the sheer folly of his association with these individuals.
He now felt resolute in severing all ties with them.
Qian Erhu¡¯s suffering was inextricably linked to him.
The thought of Qian Erhu perishing left him burdened with a lifelong sense of grievance.
Consequently, he resolved to implore Qin Zhenzhen to intervene and rescue Qian Erhu.
A sense of dutypelled Qin Zhenzhen, as a practitioner of medicine, to not forsake them. She opted to assess the situation firsthand.
Softly, Su Bin confided in Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°If youck the confidence to ensure his survival, there¡¯s no need to proceed. I¡¯ll shoulder the responsibility.¡±
Effectively, he intended to assume the me.
Qin Zhenzhen admitted that Qian Erhu¡¯s chances were uncertain.
If she were to falter in saving him, her reputation and future prospects would be shattered.
Qin Zhenzhen regarded Su Bin with astonishment.
Was he truly expressing concern for her well-being?
Did he genuinely value her reputation over Qian Erhu¡¯s life?
It mirrored the perspective of a ssic antagonist.
Impelled by this, Qin Zhenzhen feltpelled to impart her perspective on the proper way to live.
¡°In any case, preserving a life outweighs constructing a towering monument. I shall proceed to ascertain if there¡¯s a chance to rescue him.¡±
Addressing Qian Dashan, Qin Zhenzhen conveyed, ¡°My expertise lies in medicine, yet I don¡¯t possess miraculous abilities. The fate of his recovery hinges on the specifics of his condition.¡±
She also took the opportunity to discuss the potential oue of an unsessful intervention, preparing them for any possible disappointment. Qian Dashan disyed continuous nods, affirming, ¡°I understand¡ I understand. Thank you¡ thank you!¡±
The urban center wasn¡¯t too far from Qian Vige.
Qian Erhuy in a state of unconsciousness, though the head wound had ceased bleeding.
The attending physician had forecasted that he wouldn¡¯t sumb immediately, but the prospects of his awakening remained dim.
To be sinct, the likelihood of survival was less than 20%.
Upon arriving at the clinic, Qin Zhenzhen and the others were met with the sounds of Ms. Lin¡¯s anguished wails from within.
¡°Erhu, please awaken now, cease tormenting me¡¡±
¡°If you stay in slumber, I¡¯ll find it unbearable to continue¡¡±
¡°Kindly, just unveil your eyes and catch a glimpse, my child!¡±
After shedding tears for an extended duration, her voice had grown raspy.
Upon noticing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s arrival, the medical personnel respectfully stepped aside.
Ms. Lin¡¯s weeping ceased. She fixated her gaze upon Qin Zhenzhen, who was diligently attending to Qian Erhu, with a glimmer of hope.
Concussion happens when there¡¯s a minor brain injury. What was typical was that after the injury, a short spell of unconsciousness follows. This couldst a few minutes or even more than ten, but usually less than half an hour.
However, some patients suddenly lose consciousness without passing out. For others, they stay unconscious for quite a while, and sadly, some even die.
Qian Erhu was in one of those situations. It urred because the violence affected his brain stem through its deep parts.
On top of the concussion, he was bleeding heavily. Given his state, just using needles wouldn¡¯t be enough to wake him up.
The clinic doctor told Qin Zhenzhen they¡¯d tried acupuncture already, but it hadn¡¯t worked.
Qian Erhu¡¯s lips were shut tight, and he couldn¡¯t take in the spiritual water. So, Qin Zhenzhen began by dripping it onto his wound, letting it seep into his bloodstream that way.
Next, she dissolved a pill in water, mixed it with the spiritual water, opened Qian Erhu¡¯s mouth, and poured it in.
Qin Zhenzhen decided to have only one doctor and Qian Dashan with her. She didn¡¯t allow anyone else toe close..
Chapter 239 - 239: Good Person
Chapter 239: Good Person
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The doctor and Qian Dashan observed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s actions attentively, yet failed to perceive any discernible changes she had made.
Their confusion was palpable. Could this unconventional approach truly rouse the patient from their slumber?
Qian Dashan remained silent, his inner thoughts a chorus of self-encouragement. Qin Zhenzhen, the designated heir of the prestigious Jiang Family from the capital, possessed the potential to not only heal the governor¡¯s ailing mother but potentially save Erhu as well.
The doctor, equally perplexed, shifted his attention towards Qin Zhenzhen, his curiosity piqued.
After a brief period, Qin Zhenzhen meticulously examined Qian Erhu¡¯s pulse. To her delight, she detected a noticeable enhancement in his previously feeble heartbeat. Concurrently, his ashenplexion gradually gave way to a healthier hue.
A subtle smile of satisfaction curved upon Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s lips; the power of water was indeed boundless.
Based on his present condition, it seemed usible that immediate acupuncture might awaken him.
Qian Dashan¡¯s heart swelled with hope as he beheld his son¡¯s visibly improved countenance. He muttered in a fervent undertone, ¡°Miracle Doctor! A true miracle worker! That¡¯s what she is!¡±
The doctor, who had initially scrutinized Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s actions, now found himself transitioning from scrutiny to admiration. He marveled at the astonishing impact that a singr pill could yield.
Overwhelmed by curiosity, he too assessed Qian Erhu¡¯s pulse, his astonishment only deepening.
¡°Miss Qin,¡± he inquired, a blend of awe and intrigue coloring his tone, ¡°what manner of pill is this? Could it truly harbor the potential to rekindle life in the departed?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s lips curled into a modest smile. ¡°It¡¯s not exactly magic; just a rapid energy-replenishing pill.¡±
¡°He had lost a considerable amount of blood, so I administered one.¡¯ ¡°Once we perform acupuncture, there¡¯s a chance he¡¯ll regain consciousness.¡±
The doctor fetched the acupuncture kit.
¡°Miss Qin, if you please.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen procured the needles and deftly inserted them into Qian Erhu¡¯s acupuncture points.
Soon, Qian Erhu¡¯s eyelids fluttered, and he regained consciousness.
However, his mind was still clouded. ¡°It¡¯s painful¡¡±
Tears of joy streamed down Qian Dashan¡¯s cheeks. ¡°Son, you¡¯re finally awake!¡±
From outside, Ms. Lin¡¯s voice echoed with surprise, ¡°Qian Dashan, is Erhu really awake?¡±
Brimming with excitement, Qian Dashan replied, ¡°Yes, all thanks to Su Bin¡¯s wife!¡±
¡°Truly? That¡¯s incredible!¡±
¡°Could you open the door? I need to see him!¡±
Ms. Lin¡¯s insistent knocking reverberated along with her impassioned requests.
Irritated by the interruption, Qin Zhenzhen instructed Qian Dashan, ¡°Please keep her calm and ensure no one enters.¡±
Qian Dashan nodded, quietly approached the door, and engaged in a hushed conversation with Ms. Lin.
As anticipated, Ms. Lin¡¯s voice gradually faded into silence.
ording to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, a concussion was perceived as a form of brain injury, and clinical diagnosis focused on the term ¡°contusion.¡± As a result, treating a concussion necessitated a three-pronged approach.
Once Qian Dashan had concluded his conversation with Ms. Lin, he overheard Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s dialogue with the doctor.
¡°While treating this condition might be time-consuming, it shouldn¡¯t pose a significant challenge for him. Your clinic can certainly carry on with the treatment, and it should progress without major issues.¡±
Intrigued, the doctor inquired, ¡°Won¡¯t you continue overseeing his treatment?¡±
Qian Dashan himself hoped that Qin Zhenzhen would continue tending to his son¡¯s well-being.
¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife, it would be truly kind of you¡¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen interjected, ¡°Qian Erhu is no longer in critical condition, and his recovery is well within reach. The process is notplicated.¡±
She held the belief that Qian Erhu would not experience any adverse effects from the water treatment.
¡°Furthermore, the patient should avoid unnecessary movement. Remaining at the clinic is the most prudent course of action.¡±
¡°Also, we are bound for the prefecture today, and unfortunately, I cannot stay..¡±
Chapter 240 - 240: Subsequent Treatment
Chapter 240: Subsequent Treatment
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qian Dashan held onto the hope that Qin Zhenzhen would continue treating his son. His reasons were twofold: to ensure the continuation of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s effective treatment and to alleviate the burden of medical expenses.
However, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s refusal was resolute, leaving him in a quandary. He grappled with the dilemma of whether to press Qin Zhenzhen to stay or not. On one hand, he didn¡¯t want to coerce her, but on the other hand, he feared his son¡¯s full recovery might bepromised without her expertise, and he also worried about the financial implications of the treatment.
Qin Zhenzhen shot a pointed look at Qian Dashan, intentionally disregarding his presence. She was acutely aware of his intentions.
She believed in the adage that stated, ¡°A leopard can¡¯t change its spots.¡± Ms. Lin and Qian Dashan were individuals of such malevolence that they transcended the ordinary viins like Su Bin. Their intrinsic nature seemed irredeemable, even worse than Su Bin¡¯s viiny.
Qin Zhenzhen had never entertained the notion of reforming them. Just as she initially had no aspirations to change Su Bin; her sole objective was to escape. She recognized that altering a person¡¯s character was a formidable task.
Yet, the course of events was unpredictable. Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel that Su Bin might not be beyond redemption entirely. She believed that his descent into wickedness might have been influenced by his traumatic experiences. As her perspective shifted, her original intent faded into the background. Unconsciously, she began contemting ways to rescue Su Bin from his distorted worldview.
Addressing the doctor, Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°This situation shouldn¡¯t be new to you. Treat her in whatever manner you deem appropriate.¡±
With her statement made, she was on the verge of departure. She ardently wished to avoid Qian Dashan¡¯s presence and gaze.
As for Qian Dashan¡¯s actions, she held the sentiment of indifference. He could proceed as he pleased.
The doctor acknowledged her words, saying, ¡°Ultimately, it¡¯s the decision of the patient¡¯s family. If they choose not to continue treatment here, we won¡¯t impose.¡±
The doctor was acutely perceptive of Qian Dashan¡¯s motives, deliberately addressing him in this manner.
His intention was clear ¡ª he wanted tomunicate that Qian Dashan¡¯s money was not required nor desired by their clinic.
In response, Qian Dashan retorted, ¡°Who says I¡¯m considering leaving this clinic? My niece-inw¡¯s rmendation is to avoid moving the patient. Where else would we even consider going?¡±
Shifting his focus to Qin Zhenzhen, Qian Dashan inquired, ¡°Nephew-inw, based on your understanding, what should be our next steps? Could you share your thoughts with the doctor here?¡±
¡°My foremost concern is Erhu¡¯s well-being. Observing his current state, he¡¯s likely enduring a severe headache.¡±
Given the circumstances, the onset of a headache was virtually inevitable. The head wound he sustained was substantial, and the resultant concussion guaranteed suffering.
When a brain pathway was obstructed, unceasing headaches were the norm; akin to a persistent thorn. The pain was ceaseless, inducing bouts of dizziness that varied in intensity.
Qin Zhenzhen had provided Qian Erhu with water, mitigating some of the pain. Nheless, she understood that the ache would persist and possibly escte with time.
Qin Zhenzhen was well aware that the pain-alleviating effects of the spiritual water typically endured for a span of four to six hours.
Although her intention was to avoid any undue trouble, the doctor posed a genuine inquiry.
¡°Miss Qin, Qian Dashan does make a valid point. The Jiang Family boasts exceptional medical expertise, and there likely exists an optimal approach to treat this ailment.¡±
¡°If it¡¯s convenient for you, we¡¯d greatly appreciate your guidance on potential treatment methods. However, if that¡¯s not feasible, there¡¯s no pressure whatsoever.¡±
The doctor¡¯s aspiration was to gain insight from the Jiang Family¡¯s knowledge and expertise.
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t dismiss the idea outright.
¡°The subsequent treatment can be approached from three simultaneous angles.¡±
¡°To begin, pain relief can be achieved using biancaea sappan, artemisia herb, and stem bark¡¡±
The doctor picked up a pen and paper, meticulously jotting down the names and dosages of the prescribed medications.
¡°As for the second approach, acupuncture can be implemented, targeting specific points such as the temples and the indentation at the base of the skull¡¡±
Chapter 241 - 241: Not Home
Chapter 241: Not Home
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°If insomnia is a severe issue, target the temple and the three pressure points on the skull.
¡°Acupuncture aims to alleviate diarrhea, administered once daily.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen spoke swiftly, mirrored by the doctor¡¯s quickprehension. The clinic¡¯s medical practitioners were well-versed in the acupuncture points she referred to, requiring minimal exnation from her, given their familiarity with the intended effects.
As the doctor transcribed her instructions, he offered his admiration. The Jiang family¡¯s medical expertise in the capital had indeed earned its esteemed reputation.
¡°The third method involves massage. The patient should sit in a specific position, while the doctor stands behind them, grasping the patient¡¯s forehead with one hand and supporting it with the other. Begin the motion from the front hairline and move towards the nape of the neck, repeating this action three to five times¡
¡°Afterward, you can apply a moist and warm medicinal treatment to the patient¡¯s head.¡±
Noticing that all the clinic¡¯s doctors had diligently recorded her instructions, Qin Zhenzhen issued a final reminder, ¡°The patient must remain calm throughout the treatment process. Rushing the procedure will not yield the desired results; it must be carried out meticulously step by step.¡±
With that, she turned and departed. The doctor courteously escorted her to the guest room.
¡°Thank you, Miss Qin. Your guidance on these supplementary treatment methods has greatly enriched our knowledge!¡±
¡°In addition, might you consider selling us some of the finished pills you used just now?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen declined with a polite smile, saying, ¡°The cost of these pills is rather high, containing rtively rare herbs. The price may not align with your budget, and I have limited stock avable.¡±
The doctor appeared somewhat sheepish, recognizing that the price might be prohibitive for the local medical center¡¯s patients.
Qin Zhenzhen firmly declined his request.
¡°In that case, let¡¯s forget about it,¡± he conceded.
In the clinic¡¯s guest room, Su Bin and Su Ping patiently awaited Qin Zhenzhen. They were already aware of her heroic act in saving Qian Erhu.
¡°Thank you, sister-inw,¡± Qian Erhu expressed his gratitude, feeling a significant weight lifted from his shoulders after being rescued.
Su Bin nced at Ms. Lin and the others present, suggesting, ¡°Second Brother, you should head home first. Zhenzhen and I will return to the Qin family.¡±
Their nned trip to the prefecture capital would need to be rescheduled, now set for tomorrow. Su Bin needed to inform Qin Silong to spare him the anguish of waiting at home.
In the afternoon, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin arrived back at the Qian Family Vige. Along the way, they overheard vigers engaged in discussions that fell silent as they approached.
Qin Zhenzhen chose not to inquire further and proceeded home with Su Bin. It was only after speaking with Su Lan and the others that they learned the topic of the vigers¡¯ conversations.
Su Ning filled them in on the initial discussions: ¡°Su Bin¡¯s wife truly possesses remarkable medical skills. I heard she used a miraculous pill to bring Qian Erhu back from the brink of death.
¡°That¡¯s correct! I heard the same thing. Su Bin¡¯s wife is incrediblypassionate. Despite Ms. Lin and others having wronged them in so many ways, she still went out of her way to save them.¡±
Subsequently, the vigers delved into spections: ¡°That life-reviving pill must be quite costly. The doctor even expressed interest in obtaining some to sell, but Su Bin¡¯s wife mentioned concerns about the price being too steep for them.¡±
¡°Speaking of which, did Ms. Lin actually cover the expenses for such an expensive pill?¡±
¡°Absolutely not! ¡±
¡°Ms. Lin also mentioned that the individuals who nearly harmed Qian Erhu were actively seeking him. They used to be his associates, so it¡¯srgely his doing.¡±
¡°It¡¯s entirely fair to say that Su Bin¡¯s wife came to Qian Erhu¡¯s rescue. To be honest, not only a single pill, but even a whole bottle wouldn¡¯t be too much.¡±
Then, with a concerned tone, Su Ning added, ¡°After Second Brother apanied you to town, he didn¡¯t return home. Someone reported seeing him heading towards the county city. I¡¯m worried about where he might have gone.¡±
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen exchanged nces, their irritation evident. After all, they had instructed Second Brother to head home first. Yet, it seemed he had disregarded their advice and went elsewhere without leaving anymunication.
Could he have gotten entangled with those individuals again?
Chapter 242 - 242: Having Dinner
Chapter 242: Having Dinner
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
He hadn¡¯t returned home, even though it was already dinner time.
The atmosphere in the household was far from cheerful.
After waiting for a while, Su Bin, wearing a stern expression, spoke up, ¡°Let¡¯s not wait any longer. Let¡¯s start eating.¡±
But just as they were about to dig in, Ms. Lin arrived, her eyes already swollen from crying.
Qin Zhenzhen furrowed her brows. She suspected that Ms. Lin was about to ask for another favor.
Su Bin¡¯s face darkened even more.
¡°Stop crying! If you have something to say, get to the point!¡± he snapped.
Ms. Lin wiped her tears away and began, ¡°Erhu has regained consciousness, but he¡¯s still in a lot of pain. He describes it as an excruciating headache, like a sharp awl piercing his skull, so painful that he wishes for death¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen interrupted her, her tone cold and unsympathetic. ¡°I¡¯ve told you before, his condition will involve pain, but it will gradually subside with treatment. It¡¯s a part of the healing process.¡±
Ms. Lin quickly responded, ¡°But after you gave him that pill, he experienced relief for two hours, so¡
Qin Zhenzhen cut her off impatiently, ¡°What are you getting at? Just spit it out!¡±
Ms. Lin seemed shameless in her request. She wanted more pills.
Did she think these pills grew on trees?
Even if they did, Qin Zhenzhen wouldn¡¯t give them to someone like Ms. Lin.
Ms. Lin shamelessly continued, ¡°I need more pills to alleviate our pain. Er Hu is in such agony.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t need a lot, just ten pills will suffice. The doctor mentioned that Er Hu will continue to experience pain for at least ten days, and he¡¯ll need over half a month of treatment to make a full recovery.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen firmly rejected her request. ¡°Not a single pill! Please leave.¡±
In reality, although Qian Erhu continued to suffer from persistent headaches, it remained within his manageable limits.
Ms. Lin¡¯s request for ten pills raised suspicions that she might have intentions to sell them.
¡°Five pills, then,¡± Ms. Lin proposed, attempting topromise by splitting the pills in half.
Su Bin¡¯s patience reached its limit. ¡°Are you not hearing us? Zhenzhen already made it clear that she won¡¯t give you a single pill!¡±
Ms. Lin erupted into a tantrum, sitting on the ground and resorting to curses.
¡°I thought we were family, trying to avoid conflicts, but you people are heartless! ¡±
¡°If you all have no heart, then don¡¯t me me for being ruthless!¡±
Seeing her audience unresponsive, Ms. Lin paused, gritting her teeth to continue.
¡°I¡¯ll reveal the truth. Officials from the town hall visited the medical center and questioned Er Hu about the incident. They inquired if he knew his attackers!¡± ¡°Er Hu confessed that he recognized the assants¡ªthey were his own brothers who hade to town that day to find him!¡±
¡°To protect your wife, who saved Er Hu, we concealed the fact that the assants were actually his own kin!¡±
¡°Think about it. If we told the truth, he¡¯d be facing arrest!¡±
¡°I¡¯m not afraid to tell you that if I don¡¯t get those pills today, I will report him to the town authorities immediately!¡±
As Ms. Lin concluded her threat, Su Bin nced at her and responded calmly, ¡°Feel free to do so. Go ahead and report it.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t obstruct our dinner.¡±
Ms. Lin was taken aback. ¡°Aren¡¯t you concerned that your second brother might end up in jail? You truly are heartless!¡±
Su Bin didn¡¯t acknowledge Ms. Lin further and turned to chat with his family.
¡°I recall a case in Wang family vigest year, involving a rapist and murderer named Wang Dajiao.¡±
Su Cheng chimed in, ¡°Yes, he was good friends with Uncle!¡±
Chapter 243 - 243: Like This
Chapter 243: Like This
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Su Qing chimed in, ¡°Indeed, that¡¯s correct. He and Uncle are very close friends. On the night when Wang Dafeimitted that crime, he was even out drinking with Uncle.¡±
¡°I recall that Uncle got apprehended by the bailiffs back then, but he was eventually acquitted.¡±
¡°From this, we can deduce that even if a close friend were tomit a crime, as long as he wasn¡¯t involved, he wouldn¡¯t be unfairly implicated.¡±
Su Cheng nodded in agreement. ¡°So, it¡¯s safe to say Second Brother won¡¯t be wrongly implicated in this assault, right?¡±
Su Lan reassured them, saying, ¡°Absolutely, there¡¯s no need to worry, everyone.¡±
Su Bin added, ¡°This ismon sense, something even a three-year-old would understand. Someone¡¯s trying to use this as a threat against us, what a ridiculous notion!¡±
Ms. Lin was so infuriated that she nearly burst a blood vessel. She rose from the ground and stormed out, hurling curses.
Qin Zhenzhen sneakily nced at Su Bin and couldn¡¯t help but stifle augh.
This kid certainly knew how to handle the avaricious Ms. Lin.
He didn¡¯t return home until the following morning.
With a grim expression, Su Bin made a decision. ¡°Let¡¯s head to the county first. Second Brother is most likely there.¡±
¡°If he doesn¡¯t show up, we won¡¯t wait any longer and will go straight to the prefectural city.¡±
Then, Su Bin instructed Qian Shanmin, ¡°Brother Shanmin, I¡¯m entrusting the safety of my sister and Xiaoyu to you. And, keep an eye on my fifth brother too.¡±
Su Bin had already covered Su Cheng¡¯s registration fee.
In ancient times, there were no winter or summer breaks in the traditional sense of modern education. There weren¡¯t clear distinctions between the previous and uing semesters. Unlike the structured grade system we have today, before taking the Cultivated Talent exam, they received monthly tuition. If they paid for a month, they could study for a month.
Typically, there was only one ssroom in the vige, and in the town¡¯s school, there was just a single teacher. This allowed Su Cheng to enroll even in the middle of the month.
Qian Shanmin expressed his assurance, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll ensure their well-being.¡±
Early in the morning, Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen, Su Qing, Su Ning, and Qin Silong made their way to the county city.
Their first stop was at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s uncle¡¯s house.
Qin Silong and Su Qing were about to venture out to gather information regarding his whereabouts when Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s uncle appeared alongside him.
Upon inquiring about the situation, they learned that the troublemakers who hade looking for him had gone into hiding after severely injuring Qian Erhu. Fortunately, theyter received news that Qian Erhu had been rescued, and no fatalities urred, leading the aggressors to let their guard down.
Nheless, they couldn¡¯t approach him openly, fearing potential repercussions if they remained in the town. Instead, they left a message for him, instructing him to meet them in the county.
He eventually made his way to the county on his own, but rather than encountering those individuals, he disclosed their whereabouts to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s uncle.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s uncle promptly reported this to the county governor, who, upon receiving the information, ordered the arrest of all those involved.
This act underscored his determination to sever all ties with those wrongdoers.
Qin Silong couldn¡¯t help but cast another scrutinizing gaze at him. Could this seemingly ruthless individual truly be willing to disassociate himself entirely from those gangsters?
Could it be that he was pretending for him to see because he wanted to learn his martial arts?
Hmph, it¡¯s often easier to change a country than to change one¡¯s nature!
Let¡¯s wait and see what the future holds for him!
He wouldn¡¯t teach him martial arts until he was certain he had improved!
The group rented a carriage and departed for the prefecture on the same day. During the journey, he felt perplexed. He attempted to engage Qin Silong in conversation several times, but Qin Silong brushed him off.
Instead, Qin Silong treated his fourth brother warmly and engaged in conversation with him.
On the day when he took a blow intended for Qin Silong, their rtionship had improved noticeably. Qin Silong even carried him home.
Why had their dynamic changed so suddenly?
Chapter 244 - 244: What If I Lose Something?
Chapter 244: What If I Lose Something?
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On the third day in the prefecture, after settling all their affairs, Su Bin headed to the prefecture school for some study time.
Qin Zhenzhen and herpanions wasted no time and quickly secured a workshop, acquiring all the necessary ingredients and tools for crafting their seasoning.
Without pause, they delved into the process of seasoning production, thankfully, a rather straightforward endeavor.
With ample manpower at their disposal, everything progressed smoothly and efficiently.
Their next venture was tomence the production of soy sauce.
Around ten dayster, Lin Nan made an unexpected visit to Su Bin and her associates.
As it turned out, Lin Nan had not returned to the capital after leaving the Qian Family Vige with the Old Marquis; instead, he had journeyed to the provincial capital.
In the provincial capital, he had family business matters to attend to. At that time, their grandfather held a modest position as a minor Assistant Minister, and the family had no other substantial sources of ie. His aunt¡¯s marriage to the Old Marquis was viewed as a significant social climb, which exined the Old Marquis¡¯s audacious proposal for another marriage of equal status.
However, their father had since risen to the position of Minister of Revenue. His elder brother had followed their father¡¯s path into government service, while Lin Nan had chosen the path ofmerce.
Their family¡¯s fortunes, supported by a considerable wealth of gold and silver, and backed by their father and brother¡¯s influence, propelled their careers to great sess.
This synergy allowed Lin Nan to umte substantial wealth, creating a mutually beneficial dynamic.
In any case, their family¡¯s circumstances had vastly improved over the past two decades.
Currently, their family¡¯s strength could rival even that of the Marquis Mansion, which exined Lin Nan¡¯s audacity in confronting the Old Marquis.
Lin Nan was undeniably affluent. He reserved a premium private room at the governor¡¯s restaurant and extended an invitation to both the governor and Su Bin¡¯s family.
It was worth noting that the governor¡¯s brother-inw held the position of governor in the provincial capital, and his mother was married to the governor, which meant Lin Nan could undoubtedly leverage these connections to his advantage.
Although the magistrate¡¯s official rank was rtively modest, he wielded significant influence within his jurisdiction, making it imperative to foster positive rtionships within his territory.
Naturally, the governor weed Lin Nan warmly.
Upon returning to Su Bin¡¯s residence, Lin Nan sought a private conversation with Qin Zhenzhen to discuss business matters.
He expressed his desire to coborate with Qin Zhenzhen, an idea that took her by surprise.
¡°Why,¡± Qin Zhenzhen inquired, her curiosity piqued, ¡°are you interested in venturing into the low-end businesses of condiments and soy sauce?¡±
In truth, Qin Zhenzhen harbored reservations about partnering with Lin Nan. He had spent many years in the world ofmerce, establishing a reputation as a savvy entrepreneur. While cooperative ventures held potential for mutual gain, Qin Zhenzhencked the necessary capital. She knew that negotiations on profit sharing could potentially put her at a disadvantage.
Moreover, Qin Zhenzhen had initially intended to expand her business gradually, taking measured steps. However, Lin Nan seemed poised to outline a cooperative model right away.
Lin Nan, however, wasted no time inying out his vision for coboration. ¡°I¡¯ll handle the financial aspects; your role will be the operational one.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll cover all expenses, and your responsibility will be to provide the recipes and oversee instruction.¡±
¡°Forget about condiments and soy sauce; we¡¯ll concentrate solely on culinary forms.
The business model he proposed bore a resemnce to modern-day health centers.
It epassed elements of food therapy, massage, and treatment, catering specifically to affluent individuals who cherished their well-being.
The objective was to attract wealthier clientele.
¡°What do you think about a 30:70 split?¡± Lin Nan proposed, anticipating Qin
Zhenzhen¡¯s agreement.
Qin Zhenzhen, while privately admiring Lin Nan¡¯s foresight and contemting her own aspirations, shook her head hesitantly. ¡°I don¡¯t have the necessary funds readily avable. What if the venture incurs losses?¡±
Lin Nan reiterated, ¡°If there are losses, your share won¡¯t be affected.¡±
Still, Qin Zhenzhen remained reluctant. ¡°I need some time to consider this. Additionally, I must consult Su Bin.¡±
Working with Lin Nan without having the financial means in ce was a concern for Qin Zhenzhen. She couldn¡¯t help but notice that Lin Nan had taken her financial constraints into ount, yet he had suggested a 30% to 70% split.
Nevertheless, Qin Zhenzhen was cautious about not antagonizing the Lin family, recognizing their potential as a valuable resource..
Chapter 245 - 245: Su Bin Is Acting Again
Chapter 245: Su Bin Is Acting Again
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Curious, Su Bin inquired, ¡°How did you respond to him?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen began to exin her inner turmoil. ¡°I¡¯m not really inclined to coborate with him.¡±
¡°But we¡¯re running low on funds.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found herself grappling with conflicting emotions.
As a transmigrator, she knew the books plot had yet to formally unfold. However, she and Su Bin appeared to be entangled in its narrative.
She feltpelled toy the groundwork for their future.
When the book¡¯s plot did kick off, the original male and female protagonists would gain wealth illicitly. The male lead would be a ndestine magnate, while the female lead would be an openly influential tycoon.
Together, they would control the nation¡¯s economic destiny, with the power to dismantle anyone in their path.
It appeared that Lin Nan had already met this fate, and so had Su Bin.
Qin Zhenzhen had no desire to see the original book¡¯s protagonists manipte the world¡¯s fate. Instead, she wanted to steer the plot¡¯s development.
To take charge of the unfolding storyline, she needed to be the wealthiest individual before the book¡¯s narrative formallymenced. She had to grasp this world¡¯s economic lifeline first.
At present, she was in dire need of funds, but she couldn¡¯t divulge her thoughts to Su Bin.
Su Bin smiled and voiced his agreement, ¡°You made the right choice. I also oppose you coborating with Lin Nan.¡±
¡°If you¡¯re looking for a partner, you might as well call me.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was surprised. ¡°Do you have money?¡±
Su Bin told her mysteriously, ¡°I don¡¯t have it now, but I might in a few days.¡±
Two days after Lin Nan¡¯s initial visit, the Old Marquis dispatched Butler Chen from the Marquis Mansion to the prefecture capital to locate Su Bin.
Butler Chen, a sharp and capable middle-aged man, held a position of deep trust within the Old Marquis¡¯s entourage.
He began by introducing himself and then elucidated the situation to Su Bin, saying, ¡°Upon learning of your existence, the marquis was filled with great excitement and promptly embarked on a quest to find you.¡±
¡°However, the Marquis, owing to his advanced age, faced a trying journey that stirred his emotions considerably. He fell ill during the return trip to the capital.¡±
¡°Upon reaching the Marquis Mansion, he was bedridden and unable to rise.¡±
¡°Nevertheless, the Marquis, despite his ailing condition, managed topose a formal petition to the pce that very day. He informed the Emperor of your discovery and even requested a Royal School admission for you.¡±
¡°The Emperor has graciously granted his approval, much to the Marquis¡¯s delight. ¡±
¡°Originally, the Marquis had intended to personally fetch you and escort you to the capital. Regrettably, his physician has cautioned against subjecting him to any more jolts on the road, as it could endanger his life.¡±
¡°As a result, the Marquis has instructed me to convey his message and bring
Young Master to the capital.¡¯
Su Bin inquired directly, ¡°How is the Marquis¡¯s Lady faring now?¡±
Butler Chen had already devised a usible exnation. ¡°The Marquis¡¯s Lady is presently confined to the Marquis Mansion, akin to a form of house arrest. Due to the Marquis¡¯s ailment, shecks the capacity to address this matter at the moment.¡±
¡°However, the Marquis has assured that he will handle the situation in due course. His primary concern is for Young Master to begin his studies at the Royal School. The Emperor¡¯s benevolence is immeasurable, and it is imperative for you to enter the institution expeditiously.¡±
Su Bin shook his head resolutely. ¡°Studying at the Royal Academy is not my desire.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve made it clear before. I won¡¯t return to the Marquis Mansion until I¡¯ve unraveled those mysteries.¡±
Butler Chen found himself in a challenging position. ¡°Securing a Royal School degree is no small feat. I implore you to reconsider.¡±
Su Binpsed into a contemtive silence, his countenance betraying inner conflict.
Qin Zhenzhen recognized that Su Bin was once again putting on an act.
He had long made up his mind not to return to the Marquis Mansion, yet he feltpelled to feign ambivalence.
Butler Chen continued his counsel. ¡°Young Master, please understand the Marquis¡¯s predicament. He bears the weight of remorse for events that transpired more than two decades ago. Simultaneously, he contends with the scrutiny of public opinion.¡±
¡°My journey to find you was far from simple, and it pained me deeply when you denied me as your family..¡±
Chapter 246 - 246: Money from the Marquis Mansion
Chapter 246: Money from the Marquis Mansion
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After Butler Chen concluded his remarks, he discreetly observed Su Bin¡¯s reaction, while Qin Zhenzhen also kept a watchful eye on Butler Chen.
Following a brief period of silence, Su Bin disyed a helpless expression and exined, ¡°It¡¯s not that we wish to disregard our familial ties. We simply aren¡¯t eager to rush into the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°But do you have any specific concerns? Can you share them with me?¡± Su Bin inquired.
Butler Chen had an air of ambiguity about his true identity; both Su Bin and
Qin Zhenzhen sensed that he held a distinct status within the Marquis Mansion. Despite his title as the butler, there was a strong possibility that he served as an aide to the Marquis, evident from his demeanor.
Qin Zhenzhen exerted herself to recall the details of the original storyline. Had
Butler Chen yed any role when Su Bin interacted with the Marquis Mansion? However, regardless of how hard she strained her memory, she could not recollect any mention of Butler Chen. Ultimately, she concluded that in Su Bin¡¯s interactions with the Marquis Mansion, Butler Chen should not have been present. Otherwise, a person as astute as him would have certainly been documented in the book.
The exnations Butler Chen had offered to the Marquis initially seemed more like a diversionary tactic designed to deceive Su Bin.
However, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but perceive Su Bin as equally shrewd. She had a hunch that he had his sights set on the Marquis Mansion¡¯s wealth. If she was correct, he might be on the verge of acquiring great riches in a matter of days.
Curious, Su Bin questioned Butler Chen, ¡°Mr. Chen, how long have you served in the Marquis Mansion?¡±
Butler Chen responded, ¡°It¡¯s been nearly three years.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found this revtion surprising and remarked, ¡°In such a rtively short period?¡±
Could he have earned the Marquis¡¯s trust in such a short span?
Butler Chen responded with an air of indifference, ¡°My father once incurred a debt to the Marquis and made a promise to serve in the Marquis Mansion for twenty years. Unfortunately, my father passed away three years ago, and I am fulfilling hismitment on his behalf.¡±
Intrigued, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t resist asking again, ¡°How long did your father work in the Marquis Mansion?¡±
Butler Chen, who had already conducted a background check on Qin Zhenzhen, had initially intended to discuss this matter privately with Su Bin. However, Su Bin had brought her along, considering Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s background and the rumors surrounding her husband¡¯s wealth. Therefore, he didn¡¯t object to her presence.
However, her two questions had struck a chord, causing him to reevaluate Qin Zhenzhen. Still, being a man, he couldn¡¯t openly scrutinize her.
After briefly casting a nce at Qin Zhenzhen, he replied, ¡°My father served in the Marquis Mansion for seventeen years.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s understanding deepened.
It now made sense why there was no mention of him in the original book; he had likely left the Marquis Mansion before Su Bin¡¯s dealings with it. A person as astute and capable as him wouldn¡¯t have stayed at the side of the Old Marquis unless bound by his father¡¯s promise.
To confirm her assumption, Qin Zhenzhen asked once more, ¡°After fulfilling your father¡¯smitment, do you intend to leave the Marquis Mansion, Mr.
Chen?¡±
Butler Chen shifted his gaze to Su Bin and inquired, ¡°Must I answer this question?¡±
Su Bin pressed on, saying, ¡°If you want to know my concerns, I also want to understand you. This question isn¡¯t too intrusive, is it?¡±
Butler Chen smiled and replied, ¡°No, it¡¯s not.¡±
The young master standing before him undeniably stood out from the other young masters residing in the Marquis Mansion.
If, in the future, the Marquis Mansion were to be entrusted to those typical young masters, he would unquestionably seek his departure from the estate.
However, if the young master before him were inclined to reim his position as the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir, he might contemte whether to remain or depart..
Chapter 247 - 247: We Still Need Money
Chapter 247: We Still Need Money
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¡°Before I address your query, allow me to convey something to you, my dear young master.¡±
¡°The Marquis had already recognized your literary talents before setting eyes on you. It was merely a matter of time until you achieved fame. His admiration for you grew even stronger after your introduction. Prior to his descent, the Marquis shared a piece of information with me.¡±
¡°If Young Master is amenable to bringing his siblings back to the Marquis Mansion, he will request an imperial decree to designate you as the heir to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°The Marquis must have contemted this decision thoroughly. There is no reason to doubt his sincerity.¡±
Butler Chen concluded his discourse and awaited Su Bin¡¯s reaction with anticipation.
However, Su Bin remainedposed. ¡°I have previously stated that until we thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding my father¡¯s departure and the identity of the individual who consistently sabotaged my examinations, we cannot return to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°Nheless, I am aware of the challenges you face.¡±
¡°If indeed my father left due to my grandmother¡¯s poisoning, even if we uncover the truth after more than two decades, I doubt the Marquis would dare to disclose it publicly. Such an admission would be a significant affront to his reputation.¡±
¡°Additionally, the person who framed me is well known to be the Marquis¡¯s wife, a fact the Marquis himself is aware of. Nevertheless, he refrains from making this information public or punishing his wife, as doing so would not only besmirch her reputation but also reflect poorly on him.¡±
¡°Consequently, the Marquis has no desire to initiate an investigation.¡±
¡°There are two primary motives behind the Marquis¡¯s endeavor to entice us back with the promise of the heir¡¯s position. Firstly, it serves as a form of rpense. Secondly, it is an acknowledgment of the inadequacies of the current residents of the Marquis Mansion. Am I mistaken?¡±
Butler Chen nodded in agreement. ¡°Young Master is absolutely correct.¡±
He discerned no need to conceal the truth on behalf of the Marquis in the presence of such an astute individual.
¡°However, Young Master may have overlooked the depth of the Marquis¡¯s genuine affection for you. His desire to wee you back to the Marquis Mansion is heartfelt.¡¯
¡°Furthermore, Young Master may have underestimated the significance of bing the heir to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°Attaining this status would enable Young Master to achieve much more with significantly less effort in the future.¡±
¡°Thus, I personally believe that it would be highly advantageous for you to return to the Marquis Mansion and acknowledge your familial ties.¡±
Su Bin concealed his inner cynicism. This was a person who had held fervent biases in his youth but still had to preserve his public image in old age. Even if his sentiments were authentic, Su Bin remained apathetic.
Nevertheless, Su Bin feigned resignation.
¡°If we were to return to the Duke Mansion immediately, it would be perceived as an admission of wrongdoing on our father¡¯s part for leaving, and it would imply that the Marquis¡¯s wife faced no consequences for framing us.¡±
¡°Some individuals would conclude that we returned to the Duke¡¯s Mansion without protest because wecked the fortitude to stand our ground due to our poverty.¡±
¡°Consequently, we would be subject to ridicule by many.¡±
¡°Hence, the timing isn¡¯t right for our return to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°When we do return, it will be at a juncture where our strengthmands respect.¡±
Butler Chen promptly grasped Su Bin¡¯s intent.
¡°You mean that you¡¯ll consider returning to the Marquis Mansion and acknowledging your kin when you secure a ce on the Golden Ranking List?¡±
Su Bin shook his head with a wry smile. ¡°It¡¯s not merely a matter of des. We must also amass wealth!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen stifled a chuckle. Her hunch had been correct. Su Bin was, in fact, utilizing this strategy to amass wealth.
However, Su Bin¡¯s thoughts were not wrong. His father was the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir, and his grandmother was the Marquis Mansion¡¯s official wife. He had a share of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s assets..
Chapter 248 - 248: Misunderstanding
Chapter 248: Misunderstanding
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Butler Chen instinctively grasped Su Bin¡¯s underlying message.
¡°So, you¡¯re seeking financial support for your business endeavors?¡± he inquired. As for the nature of Su Bin¡¯s intended business, Butler Chen had already deduced it.
Qin Zhenzhen, a descendant of the esteemed Jiang family, had sessfully established a seasoning workshop and a soy sauce production facility, both thriving in the market. It was evident that she harbored ambitions to expand her entrepreneurial ventures.
In a year or two, when their businesses were flourishing, and Su Bin happened to ascend the ranks of the Golden List, he would return to the Marquis Mansion to assert his family ties and gain the respect he deserved. No young master in the capital would dare to underestimate them then.
However, Su Bin¡¯s response was a knowing smile. ¡°Well, the Marquis Mansion isn¡¯t the sole source of my financial aspirations for business. My uncle, Lin Nan, from my father¡¯s maternal family has expressed interest in a business partnership. We won¡¯t need to invest our own capital.¡±
Butler Chenprehended the situation entirely.
He respectfully bowed to Su Bin. ¡°I will promptly convey this information to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
As expected, he wasted no time and promptly departed in a carriage bound for the capital.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but smile. ¡°You truly are resourceful.¡±
It appeared that Su Bin was well on his way to securing the necessary funds.
Su Bin exined, ¡°Initially, I was hesitant to resort to this method, but upon careful consideration, we already have a im on the Marquis Mansion¡¯s resources. It would be imprudent not to leverage that advantage.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen began discussing the terms of their potential coboration. ¡°If you manage to secure the funding, what kind of partnership arrangement do you have in mind?¡±
Lin Nan had offered her a 30% to 70% split. In the event of losses, she would not bear the burden. She wondered what type of agreement Su Bin, the money-savvy individual, would propose.
Could Su Bin possibly be more of a profiteer than Lin Nan?
However, Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback when Su Bin looked directly at her and made an unexpected proposal. ¡°I¡¯ll give you all my earnings. You just need to return the capital to me. I¡¯ll repay it to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
He had never contemted returning to the Marquis Mansion to assert his family ties.
Qin Zhenzhen was incredulous. ¡°Give it all to me? That¡¯s impossible. Are you joking?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s eyes held aplex mixture of emotions as he replied softly, ¡°Nothing is impossible. I¡¯m willing to entrust it all to you, just as long as you¡¯re willing to support me whenever I need it.¡±
With those words, he turned and departed, leaving Qin Zhenzhen in a state of bewilderment.
She couldn¡¯t fathom Su Bin¡¯s intentions. Initially, she had intended to earn his favor to prevent him from wreaking havoc on her family once he gained power in the future. She had envisioned using the influential backing behind him to deal with the Jiang family.
She had shared these thoughts with him previously, driven by a specific motive.
However, his recent expression suggested that he may have misunderstood her intentions. Did he believe that she genuinely cared for him to the extent of risking her life to assist him? This realization left her somewhat moved. Was he trying to reciprocate her feelings in calling her his wife?
The journey from the prefecture to the capital typically took about three days.
On the seventh day, Butler Chen hastened from the capital to the prefecture and handed Su Bin a substantial sum of 50,000 liang.
Qin Zhenzhen quickly calcted, realizing that this amounted to an astonishing 15 million if each liang could purchase 50 kilograms of rice. The Marquis Mansion indeed possessed deep pockets, generously providing such a substantial sum at once.
Butler Chen told Su Bin, ¡°I¡¯ll pass Young Master¡¯s words to the Marquis. The Marquis was so touched that he cried and agreed to Young Master¡¯s request on the spot.¡¯
¡°Apart from these checks, the Marquis also asked me toe and help Young Master.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was quite happy. She indeed needed someone like Butler Chen.
But she didn¡¯t forget that Butler Chen¡¯s term wasing to an end.
Thinking of this, she felt a little regretful..
Chapter 249 - 249: One Family
Chapter 249: One Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When Lin Nan returned to seek out Qin Zhenzhen once more, he was taken aback to discover that Butler Chen from the Marquis Mansion was actively assisting Qin Zhenzhen in her endeavors. Together, they ventured into various business ventures, purchasing shops, establishing workshops, and opening health centers.
Lin Nan immediately grasped the situation. He had a desire to coborate with Qin Zhenzhen, but when he proposed the idea, she insisted on discussing it with Su Bin. Eventually, Su Bin approached the Marquis Mansion for financial support, and to Lin Nan¡¯s surprise, the Marquis willingly provided Mr. Chen to assist Su Bin. This gesture illustrated the high regard the Marquis held for Su Bin.
It became evident to Lin Nan that his hopes of partnering with Qin Zhenzhen were slim. He regretted not offering Qin Zhenzhen a more favorable profit-sharing arrangement, which might have convinced her to join forces with him much earlier. The avability of sufficient profits could have swayed her decision.
Lin Nan had long recognized that Su Bin had no intention of returning to the Marquis Mansion. In fact, there were two reasons why Lin Nan had previously confronted the Old Marquis.
Firstly, he genuinely held disdain for the Old Marquis and disapproved of his behavior. He wholeheartedly supported Su Bin¡¯s decision not to acknowledge the Old Marquis as his grandfather, deeming such a grandparent unworthy of acknowledgment.
Secondly, Lin Nan had deliberately exacerbated the conflict between Su Bin and the Old Marquis, hoping to derail their negotiations. His motive was to create favorable conditions for him and Qin Zhenzhen to coborate in business, as he was aware that Qin Zhenzhencked the financial resources she needed.
Lin Nan also understood that the Jiang family aimed to exert control over Qin Zhenzhen, which she vehemently opposed. Since Su Bin was reluctant to return to the Marquis Mansion and acknowledge his family, Qin Zhenzhen needed substantial financial resources to contend with the Jiang family¡¯s influence. Aside from Su Bin¡¯s aspirations for fame, acquiring substantial funds was a pressing necessity for her.
He was willing to coborate with her, both for financial gain and to safeguard her in the name of the Lin family. He firmly believed that Qin Zhenzhen would undoubtedly opt to work with him.
However, what he hadn¡¯t anticipated was Su Bin¡¯s ability to secure financial support from the Marquis Mansion without having to return and acknowledge his familial ties. This unforeseen development threw a wrench into all of Lin Nan¡¯s carefullyid ns.
Nevertheless, despite Lin Nan¡¯s reputation as a ¡°profiteer,¡± he had a principled side. He had no intentions of employing underhanded tactics to sabotage Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s business endeavors.
Instead, he took a step back and assumed the role of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s distributor in several key cities. His efforts were focused on helping her market seasonings, soy sauce, health supplements, and wellness packages. Initially, he had aspired to acquire exclusive marketing rights in the capital but faced rejection.
It was Mr. Chen who exined, ¡°While the prefecture serves as our headquarters, the capital remains our primary battleground,¡± echoing words he had learned from Qin Zhenzhen. Indeed, Mr. Chen had gained a wealth of modern business acumen and techniques through his association with her.
Previously, Lin Nan had considered Su Bin to be formidable, but now he recognized that Qin Zhenzhen possessed aparable level of strength. It brought to mind the saying: ¡°If you¡¯re not family, you can¡¯t enter the same house.¡±
In a span of less than a month, Mr. Chen¡¯s convictions began to waver. Initially, he had intended to assist them until the year¡¯s end, at which point he would seek alternative employment after twenty years of service to the Marquis Mansion. However, his perspective gradually evolved.
He realized that there was much to learn by aligning himself with Qin
Zhenzhen. Moreover, he held a firm belief that within three years, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s business would experience exponential growth. Su Bin, too, disyed aplexity that Mr. Chen had not initially perceived.
Although Su Bin had pursued an education at the prefectural school, Mr. Chen had perused the articles and theories he had authored and found them to be on par with those produced by students from the Royal School. Ultimately, he concluded that there was no need to seek alternative employment. It seemed entirely prudent to continue following Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin.
Before the year¡¯s end, Mr. Chen expressed his desire to remain in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s service.
Seeing that Mr. Chen was willing to stay and continue helping her, Qin Zhenzhen naturally weed him.
She immediately added Mr. Chen¡¯s monthly silver and promised to give him dry shares.
Mr. Chen worked even harder.
His ability to learn and understand was also strong. As long as Qin Zhenzhen gave him a rough idea, he would immediately understand the key..
Chapter 250 - 250: Living
Chapter 250: Living
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Time flew by, and in the blink of an eye, three months had passed since Qin Zhenzhen and herpanions arrived in the prefecture.
During this period, they aplished a multitude of tasks. Their seasonings and soy sauce had found their way into several capital markets, garnering widespread acim and achieving impressive sales figures.
Their original workshop had expanded significantly, now employing a workforce of over fifty individuals. The techniques and ingredients used in crafting their seasonings and soy sauce were no secret. The true uniquenessy in the addition of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s special spiritual water¡ªa simple yet remarkable innovation. This spiritual water allowed for the creation of small particles, easily transformable into powder or swift dissolving agents when mixed with water, making their products incredibly user-friendly. Customers simply needed to incorporate these seasonings and soy sauce into their culinary creations.
Qin Zhenzhen took it upon herself to impart her knowledge to Qin Silong and
Su Ping, teaching them the art of seasoning and soy sauce production. Qin
Silong, once wary, hade to ept Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s presence in their lives.
He remained true to his promise, havingpletely severed ties with his former associates. Despite several offers from individuals willing to work for him or even be his superior, Qin Silong turned them all down. He rejected those who persisted and had distanced himself so thoroughly that he did not even entertain the idea that some among his previous acquaintances might be genuinely seeking redemption and a fresh start.
In his view, he was still a work in progress, and during this period of self-improvement, he couldn¡¯t afford any distractions. He worried that associating with his old friends might jeopardize his determination to better himself and lead to his eventual exhaustion.
If he decided to part ways with his former associates, it would be aplete and final break.
Once, driven by his ambitions, he had even sold the jade pendant his father had given him, earning him a reputation for callousness among those people.
When these acquaintances eventually distanced themselves from him, they did so without uttering a word. Being the young master of the Marquis Mansion, they feared offending him. It was a ssic case of the strong bullying the weak and others avoiding confrontation with the true nobility.
Behind his back, they only dared to vent their frustrations.
¡°What a heartless individual! We were so naive in the past, treating him as a brother! ¡±
¡°Sigh, but what can we do? We were born with lesser status; he¡¯s of noble birth, so naturally, he doesn¡¯t want to associate with us. A selfish person gets what he desires!¡±
¡°I remember a buddy mentioning that he even reported us for a skirmish with his cousin¡¯s brother. I didn¡¯t believe it then, but now I¡¯m starting to see the truth.¡±
¡°Is that so? No wonder our friends got captured and sentenced to three years of servitude!¡±
¡°Now that we know, should we seek retribution for ourrades?¡±
Silence fell among the group.
One person spoke up again, expressing a desire for revenge and even proposing a scheme to hispanions.
¡°Su Ping and Qin Silong have always been close. Both of them are formidable.
It¡¯s best not to provoke them.¡±
¡°But he has a sister and a niece in the vige. What if we were to kidnap them for ransom?¡±
The leader of the group pped him, his voice firm. ¡°Who do you think you are? You dare to suggest kidnapping someone from the Marquis Mansion?¡±
¡°Before you even consider it, think twice! The man who recently became engaged to Sister Su Ping is a military officer with an ominous reputation.
Rumor has it he¡¯s taken the lives of no fewer than a hundred people!¡±
¡°Despite his limp, word has it that his martial prowess remains unimpaired.
Justst month, he singlehandedly subdued a wild boar up in the mountains!¡±
¡°Are you seriously suggesting kidnapping his partner? You must be seeking trouble! ¡°
Chapter 251 - 251: Granny Dreaming
Chapter 251: Granny Dreaming
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Everyone could clearly witness Su Ping¡¯s transformation.
Qin Silong, of course, noticed it as well.
Yet, he remained reluctant to impart his martial arts knowledge, still haunted by the events of that dream.
Su Ping, however, disyed remarkable patience. He dedicated himself to the workshop, diligently battling for tasks that once belonged solely to Qin Silong.
His aim was to touch Qin Silong¡¯s heart with his earnestness.
However, Qin Silong, who had experienced two lifetimes¡¯ worth of hardships, wasn¡¯t easily swayed.
Understanding her fourth brother¡¯s sentiments, refrained from trying to persuade him.
This was a matter that Fourth Brother had to willingly undertake.
In addition to managing the seasoning and soy sauce workshop, Qin Zhenzhen ventured into opening a food therapy shop in the prefectural city.
This establishment specialized in tailored food therapies, meticulously outlining which symptoms each therapy could address and which ones it should be avoided for.
Clear descriptions were also provided regarding the symptoms these food therapies could alleviate and the types of meat they paired well with.
Another distinctive feature of the food therapy shop was the sale of therapeutic tea bags designed to address issues such as headaches, dampness, overall health improvement, and weight loss, among other concerns.
Qin Zhenzhen entrusted the management of the food therapy shop to Su Qing.
In addition to serving customers and introducing the avable products, Su Qing also took charge of the wholesale distribution of food therapies and tea bags.
Su Qing proved to be a reliable and capable steward of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s enterprise.
Despite not excelling in academics, he disyed a sharp intellect and swiftly grasped the intricacies of operating a food and healing establishment.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s entrepreneurial spirit extended to the establishment of a health center, offering services such as acupuncture, medical massage, and traditional massage, along with specialized treatments for challenging medical conditions.
She had two official female apprentices, namely Chen Shanshan, daughter of Chen Youwei, and Su Ning. Additionally, she weed two promising women into her tutge to learn the art of medical massage.
Chen Shanshan and Su Ning receivedprehensive training from Qin Zhenzhen, epassing both culinary skills and medical expertise.
Initially, the health center catered primarily to female clientele, particrly affluentdies who spared no expense for their well-being.
After a month of trial operations, the center¡¯s revenue demonstrated significant growth.
Of course, Qin Zhenzhen personally attended to the most challenging cases. Her consultations were by appointment only, as she dedicated herself to treating various stubborn ailments.
Many affluent women, suffering from conditions like shoulder tension, headaches, and general sub-optimal health, found relief in her care. These conditions often proved resistant to conventional treatments, but Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s proficiency in Chinese medicine, coupled with her spiritual water, yielded remarkable results.
Over the three months she spent in the prefecture, her reputation as a Miracle Doctor continued to soar.
Despite her demanding schedule, Qin Zhenzhen never neglected her granma¡±s needs. The elderly woman had been blind for an extended period, resulting in nerve atrophy around her eye sockets. Qin Zhenzhen diligently applied her spiritual water for three months, gradually nourishing these withered nerves. Through her efforts, Grandma Qin began to glimpse a renewed sense of hope.
Initially, Grandma Qin noticed a significant improvement in her eyes¡¯ condition following the massages.
Gradually, she began to sense more than just physical relief. After each session, her mental state improved, and she felt as though she had shed a decade¡¯s worth of years.
For someone who had grappled with memory loss, she could now discern a steady improvement. Moreover, she could even transcribe the culinary and medical wisdom she had previously mastered onto paper.
As time passed, Grandma Qin¡¯s hope of regaining her sight grew brighter. Slowly but surely, she began to perceive the faint glimmer of light from the outside world.
In that remarkable moment, her excitement matched that of a child.
¡°Zhenzhen! Zhenzhen! This isn¡¯t a dream, is it? I can see the light!¡±
Both she and Qin Zhenzhen, being well-versed in the medical field, understood the importance of shielding her eyes from the outside light at this critical juncture.
Qin Zhenzhen crafted a protective eye mask for her grandma and nned to remove it at the appropriate time..
Chapter 252 - 252: Seeing Light Again
Chapter 252: Seeing Light Again
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
At the prospect of regaining her sight, it would be far from truthful to suggest that Grandma Qin didn¡¯t brim with excitement. She clutched Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand tightly and expressed her gratitude, saying, ¡°Zhenzhen, thank you!¡±
Grandma Qin was convinced that her glimmer of hope to see the light again was primarily due to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s unique abilities. This thought had been growing within her for some time.
Over time, Grandma Qin had noticed a peculiar sensation whenever Qin
Zhenzhen massaged her. She could distinctly feel a fluid trickling into her eyes. She had questioned Qin Zhenzhen about it once, but Qin Zhenzhen had fibbed, telling her it was a type of potion.
Initially, Grandma Qin had believed her granddaughter¡¯s exnation.
However, as time went on, she grew skeptical. She could detect the subtle fragrance that apanied the mysterious liquid that rejuvenated her eyes every day, a fragrance that was distinctly Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s own.
She couldn¡¯t help but reflect on the various condiments sold, especially her remarkable soy sauce, and how she miraculously healed the governor¡¯s mother¡¯s back pain. The quick recovery from severe illnesses under Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s care only deepened her suspicion. There had to be a connection between this mysterious elixir for her eyes and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s abilities.
Despite her curiosity, Grandma Qin restrained herself from pressing the matter further. She knew she had to wait until she could actually see the light once more before broaching the subject with caution.
Three months passed, and one fateful morning, Qin Zhenzhen decided it was time to remove her grandma¡¯s blindfold. The entire household gathered, eager to witness this potentially magical moment.
Grandma Qin settled into a chair in the courtyard, and Qin Zhenzhen, with great care, began to lift the blindfold.
¡°Grandma, there¡¯s no need to fear. You¡¯re currently shielded from direct sunlight. Open your eyes gradually and savor the moment.¡±
Grandma Qin hesitated with closed eyes, her anxiety palpable. She had previously attempted to open her eyes in the darkness, aware that her vision had returned, but the idea of confronting the brilliant light all at once was daunting.
¡°Grandma, please, open your eyes!¡± Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s gentle encouragement finally persuaded Grandma Qin to cautiously unveil her eyes.
Before her stood Qin Zhenzhen, her beautiful face magnified in Grandma Qin¡¯s newfound vision.
Observing her grandma¡¯s gaze fixed on her, Qin Zhenzhen asked with joy,
¡°Grandma, it¡¯s me, Zhenzhen. Can you see my face clearly?¡±
Tears welled up in Grandma Qin¡¯s eyes before she could respond.
Around the second month of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s massage sessions, tears began to flow freely.
Grandma Qin reached out and held Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face tenderly. ¡°I can see you perfectly, my dear. You are absolutely beautiful. Your face!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen yfully retorted, ¡°Well, of course, it is! I take after you, Grandma! ¡±
A warm smile spread across Grandma Qin¡¯s face. ¡°Such sweet words!¡±
Qin Silong approached and squatted down, his eyes glistening with emotion. ¡°Grandma, it¡¯s me, the fourth child, Qin Silong!¡±
Grandma Qin released Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face and eximed joyfully, ¡°I had no idea the Fourth Brother was so handsome!¡±
Qin Silong chuckled. ¡°Grandma, you always said I resemble Grandpa. Are you indirectly praising Grandpa¡¯s good looks?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen tugged at Fourth Brother¡¯s clothing, indicating he might have misspoken.
Grandma Qin burst into heartyughter. ¡°Well, perhaps that¡¯s true!¡± Regrettably, she had neverid eyes on herte husband.
As she reminisced about the husband who had been her most devotedpanion, Grandma Qin¡¯s eyes welled up once more. s, he had departed this world ahead of her.
Only then did Qin Silong realize his earlier slip of words.
Thankfully, Grandma Qin didn¡¯t dwell on it too much.
Qin Zhenzhen and Qin Silong assisted Grandma to her feet.
Next, Su Bin took his turn to introduce himself. ¡°Grandma, I¡¯m Su Bin,
Zhenzhen¡¯s husband, and your grandson-inw.¡±
Grandma Qin was well aware that Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s marital arrangement was not genuine, yet she greeted Su Bin with a warm smile.
With a hint of jest, she remarked, ¡°Among this finepany, my grandson-inw is the most handsome, I must say. Yes, he might even surpass Zhenzhen in looks!¡±
Su Bin didn¡¯t feel uneasy; instead, he held Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand and replied,
¡°Thank you, Grandma.¡±
Subsequently, Su Ning and the others took turns introducing themselves one by one..
Chapter 253 - 253: Grandma (in’s Question
Chapter 253: Grandma (in¡¯s Question
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Then, Grandma Qin turned around slowly and lifted her head, allowing her long-dormant eyes to bask in the gentle morning sun.
¡°I can see! I can truly see!¡±
Never in her wildest dreams had she imagined she would behold the light once more!
Qin Zhenzhen gently grasped her grandma¡¯s hand. ¡°Grandma, let¡¯s go inside. Your eyes shouldn¡¯t be exposed to the sunlight for too long.¡±
¡°Of course,¡± Grandma Qin replied obediently as she retreated into the house.
The previous evening, Qin Zhenzhen had posed a question to her grandma, ¡°Grandma, now that you can see again, would you like to return home first, or would you prefer to stay with us until the end of the year?¡±
Grandma Qin responded, ¡°If my eyes are in good shape, I¡¯d like to lend a hand.¡±
In her prime, she had been one of the most skilled individuals within the Jiang family.
Didn¡¯t Zhenzhen establish a health center?
Considering her current condition, she could undoubtedly assist Zhenzhen in earning a living.
As she contemted her inquiry, Grandma Qin tugged towards her room.
¡°Zhenzhen, did you heal Grandma¡¯s eyes because water flowed from your fingertips?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. Grandma was aware of this?
Hadn¡¯t she imed it was a concocted potion?
Well, she conceded that her previous exnation had been rather inept.
¡°Before the Jiang Family¡ did a girl with a unique gift have water emanating from her fingers?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s query essentially confirmed Grandma Qin¡¯s statement.
Grandma Qin nodded. ¡°You can put it that way, though their uniqueness isn¡¯t as apparent as yours.¡±
¡°By ¡®special physique,¡¯ I mean that their bodily fluids have distinctive qualities that set them apart from others.¡±
¡°It¡¯sparable to how some people have pungent-smelling sweat, while others have a more pleasant scent.¡±
¡°Bodily fluids epass substances found on the surface of the skin, helping to maintain its moisture.¡±
¡°Most people¡¯s bodily fluids are quite ordinary, but in some cases, they possess exceptional qualities.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen appeared puzzled.
She had only known that the spirit water flowing from her fingertips was a unique aspect of her transmigration.
How could she have known that human bodily fluids were also distinctive? How distinct were they?
Could it be that the person¡¯s sweat was entirelyposed of spirit water?
Grandma Qin patiently rified, ¡°Have you ever heard of a story about tea leaves?¡±
¡°These stories often involve young women meticulously selecting tea leaves and rubbing them against their thighs.¡±
¡°In essence, each tea leaf bes infused with the bodily fluids of these young women.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eyes sparkled, and she nodded. ¡°I¡¯vee across such tales!
It¡¯s said that the fragrance of the tea made by each woman is one-of-a-kind!¡±
Back then, she had found this concept absurd and considered it a deliberate mystification by ancient people.
So it was connected to bodily fluids!
Grandma Qin continued, ¡°Do you now grasp what I mean?¡±
Once again, Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°I understand!¡±
¡°When the girls in the Jiang family with unique physiques prepare meals, their dishes be infused with their bodily secretions, enhancing both vor and providing unique effects.¡±
Grandma Qin nodded. ¡°That¡¯s the concept.¡±
¡°However, the bodily fluids of the Jiang family¡¯s girls are imperceptible, unlike
yours, which can resemble droplets of water.¡±
¡°If I¡¯ve surmised correctly, you incorporated this substance into those seasonings and soy sauces, didn¡¯t you?¡±
¡°Did you utilize this substance when you were treating those individuals?¡±
Since Grandma had discerned everything, Qin Zhenzhen no longer concealed the truth.
¡°Yes.¡±
¡°But what I possess isn¡¯t referred to as bodily secretions; it¡¯s known as spirit water. It emerged suddenly, and I don¡¯t understand why or how..¡±
Chapter 254 - 254: Decision to Tell the Truth
Chapter 254: Decision to Tell the Truth
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°So, you¡¯re not¡¡±
At this point, Grandma Qin paused and did not continue.
She pondered whether or not she should reveal the rest.
Qin Zhenzhen understood her grandma¡¯s unspoken thoughts.
Her grandma had harbored suspicions about her true identity for some time now, and those doubts likely grew stronger today.
Qin Zhenzhen had been aware of her grandma¡¯s lingering uncertainty and understood that the truth would eventuallye to light.
It was inevitable because her grandma had firsthand knowledge of the unique abilities possessed by the Jiang family¡¯s special individuals. Sooner orter, she would realize that Qin Zhenzhen was different from those with special abilities.
Even if Qin Zhenzhen tried to shield her grandma from the truth, it was only a matter of time before the secret unraveled.
Her decision to restore her grandma¡¯s eyes served multiple purposes. Firstly, it was a direct challenge to the Jiang family¡¯s authority. Secondly, she needed her grandma¡¯s assistance.
As for the ultimate oue of this revtion, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel a twinge of nervousness.
¡°Grandma, you¡¯ve just regained your sight. It¡¯s essential that you rest and not dwell on anything else,¡± Qin Zhenzhen gently advised as she helped her grandma settle onto the bed.
Her grandmaplied, lying down and closing her eyes obediently.
As Qin Zhenzhen exited the room, softly closing the door behind her, her grandma slowly reopened her eyes.
She had always suspected that Qin Zhenzhen might not be her biological granddaughter. A true granddaughter couldn¡¯t possess such intelligence and wisdom.
Yet, when the four boys confessed about the dream, and Qin Zhenzhen acknowledged her own death and subsequent existence as a ghost for many years, her skills and newfound understanding of humanity had left her grandma questioning everything.
Only then did she reluctantly ept Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s story.
However, she couldn¡¯t help but harbor suspicions about the extraordinary events that followed.
It was one thing to believe that someone could quickly learn cooking skills through observation, but mastering medical massage, regr massage, and acupuncture required dedicated practice.
Her biological granddaughter had grown up under her care, and she was intimately familiar with her temperament and abilities.
While it might be conceivable that a person¡¯s temperament could change significantly after experiencing death, transforming from vicious to kind or fromzy to hardworking and brave, it was imusible for one¡¯s innate aptitude and talent to undergo such a radical transformation simply due to a near-death experience.
Despite her reservations, she chose not to expose Qin Zhenzhen because she had developed genuine affection for this ¡°granddaughter.¡±
She had contemted the matter thoroughly. As long as this ¡°granddaughter¡± remained devoted to her family and was willing to protect them, why should she be concerned about whether or not she was her biological granddaughter?
At night, Qin Zhenzhen entered her grandma¡¯s room with determination.
¡°Grandma, do you still have doubts about whether I¡¯m your biological granddaughter?¡± Qin Zhenzhen asked bluntly.
Grandma Qin wore a stern expression. ¡°Would you dare to swear that you are indeed my biological granddaughter, Qin Zhenzhen?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°If you¡¯d like me to swear it, I can, because I am undeniably Qin Zhenzhen.¡±
¡°But I can¡¯t confirm if I am your granddaughter.¡± Grandma Qin gazed at Qin Zhenzhen in astonishment. ¡°What do you mean?¡±
¡°Don¡¯t be rmed. I have something else to tell you.¡±
After careful consideration, Qin Zhenzhen chose to reveal the truth.
¡°In the dream that Fourth Brother had, I was already deceased. I didn¡¯t fabricate that; it was his personal experience.¡±
¡°But when I imed to have been a ghost for years and learned skills like cooking and healing, that part was a lie.¡±
Upon hearing this, Grandma Qin¡¯s emotions swirled with excitement. ¡°You¡
Why did you deceive us?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen gently held her grandma¡¯s hand. ¡°Please, don¡¯t get too upset. Allow me to exin.¡±
Grandma Qin was so taken aback by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s revtions that she found it difficult to respond.
Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°Why didn¡¯t I disclose the truth from the beginning? I was afraid that you might perceive me as some sort of reincarnated monster..¡±
Chapter 255 - 255: Grandma Will Help You
Chapter 255: Grandma Will Help You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°At first, I believed I was experiencing reincarnation.¡±
¡°But then I came to realize that it wasn¡¯t true.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve been reborn, much like Fourth Brother.¡±
¡°Fourth Brother lived twice in this world. I, on the other hand, lived once in another realm and then returned to this world to live anew.¡±
¡°That¡¯s why it isn¡¯t reincarnation; this body was originally mine.¡±
¡°When I encountered that stone, I didn¡¯t actually perish. Instead, my soul journeyed to another world and then returned after a considerable period of time.¡±
¡°In essence, one could say I had a prolonged dream, much like Fourth Brother.¡±
¡°In the alternate world, I went by the name Qin Zhenzhen.¡±
¡°In my dream, I discovered what transpired afterward, just like Fourth Brother did. I came across a storybook that detailed the events following our family¡¯s story. So, like Fourth Brother, I know what the future holds.¡±
¡°My culinary and medical skills were honed through countless trials and experiences in the other world.¡±
Grandma Qin remained in a daze for an extended moment.
¡°This is almost too unbelievable¡¡±
¡°It¡¯s incredibly mysterious, which is why I hesitated to reveal the truth initially. ¡±
Ultimately, Grandma Qin had epted Qin Silong¡¯s dream first. After some contemtion, she chose to believe what Qin Zhenzhen had disclosed.
¡°Is it because our family¡¯s fate was so tragic that you and the fourth child were given another chance at life to alter our family¡¯s destiny?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Perhaps.¡±
Grandma Qin inquired further, ¡°Just how tragic was our family¡¯s fate?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was determined to avoid that question. She couldn¡¯t bear to reveal to her grandma the devastating fate that had befallen their family.
The fewer individuals who were privy to this knowledge, the more advantages they could potentially gain.
There was a substantial probability that they could all find redemption. It could be argued that none of them were inherently malevolent. Their paths had diverged due to the divergent circumstances they had faced.
Nevertheless, Grandma Qin¡¯s persistent gaze pressed for an answer. ¡°Our family was indeed entangled with Su Bin¡¯s family, wasn¡¯t it?¡± With a heavy heart, Qin Zhenzhen offered a concise exnation.
¡°Our families were trapped in an endless cycle of vengeance. Initially, it was our family that harmed Su Bin¡¯s family. In the end, both families met a grim and unfortunate demise.¡¯
¡°In essence, none of us found a favorable conclusion. Our lives were tragically cut short.¡±
Grandma Qin took a deep breath and refrained from delving further into the matter.
Qin Zhenzhen continued, her voice resolute,
¡°At first, Fourth Brother and I made every effort to rectify this mistake. I sought to make amends with Su Bin¡¯s family, so we agreed to part ways with him. Regrettably, fate continued to bind our families together.¡±
¡°In the dreams shared by Fourth Brother and me, we were unaware of your affiliation with the Jiang family. The Jiang family never made an appearance in our household.¡±
¡°However, due to my actions, the Jiang family has now set their sights on us.¡±
¡°It¡¯s also because of my desire to confront the Jiang family that I find myselfpelled to cooperate with Su Bin and maintain the facade of a loving couple.¡±
¡°What transpired in the past has radically shifted. We no longer possess absolute control over what unfolds next.
¡°I fear that the Jiang family will not easily let this matter rest.¡±
¡°That¡¯s precisely why I wish to restore your eyesight. I require your assistance.¡± Grandma Qin grasped Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand firmly, her resolve unwavering.
¡°I¡¯m with you all the way!¡±
¡°In the past, I endured their humiliations without the means to fight back.. But now, with both you and your fourth brother by our side, it¡¯s high time we impart a lesson they won¡¯t forget!¡±
Chapter 256 - 256: Wang Yizhi Living in Hell
Chapter 256: Wang Yizhi Living in Hell
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Ever since Grandma Qin¡¯s eyes had regained their strength, her mental state had been steadily improving. She seemed to forget that she was already in her sixties.
Her visits to the health center became almost daily urrences.
Su Ning and Chen Shanshan had essentially be her dedicated students.
Qin Zhenzhen, on the other hand, began channeling more of her energy into creating unique ingredients and herbs. Take, for instance, those dried yam tablets. After acquiring them, she expertly mixed them into wheat bran and stir-fried them to perfection. The result of this culinary alchemy made the yam tablets far superior in their effects.
Adding one or two drops of spirit water while stir-frying only enhanced the magical properties further.
Those medicinal herbs and ingredients that had been processed by her own hands carried her personal touch, and as a result, their value skyrocketed. Their prices could easilymand multiples of their original worth.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s shop started to overflow with an ever-expanding collection of ingredients and herbs.
Meanwhile, Mr. Chen found himself increasingly upied with his work. Yet, his motivation matched his growing workload.
Qin Zhenzhen had more than delivered on her promise. The monthly dividends now exceeded Mr. Chen¡¯s previous monthly earnings by several folds.
The Old Marquis observed these developments with a heart full of joy.
He still harbored dreams of Qin Zhenzhen amassing a substantial fortune. His vision included Su Bin climbing the ranks on the Golden List, thus reuniting all the Su family siblings under the Marquis Mansion¡¯s roof.
He even considered petitioning the emperor to bestow upon Su Bin the title of heir. With Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen at the helm, the Marquis Mansion¡¯s prosperity would endure for generations toe.
The Old Marquis held a special appreciation for Su Bin¡¯s graciousness, refraining from pushing him to abandon his wife, allowing him to save face instead.
He had already made a public announcement that the Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion desired a vegetarian diet and wished to devote herself to Buddhism. Resolutely, he resisted external influences and had relocated to the Buddhist hall situated in the Duke Mansion¡¯s backyard.
During this period, they received no visitors, not even their own children.
In reality, the Old Marquis was essentially cing her under a form of house arrest.
The Old Marquis was well aware of all her actions.
Yet, for the sake of preserving his reputation, he refrained from exposing her transgressions, nor did he consider divorce.
After all, both he and their son were already married with children. Their grandchildren were now as old as Su Bin and the others.
If he were to abandon his wife, it would not only be a loss of face but would also jeopardize the prospects of his sons and grandsons in the capital.
However, Mr. Chen chose to remain silent.
It was not within his purview to remind the Old Marquis that preserving his reputation ultimately served little purpose.
In any case, the twenty-year deadline hade and gone. His future loyalty belonged not to the Old Marquis, but to Qin Zhenzhen.
Whether Su Bin chose to return to the Marquis Mansion and acknowledge his family was now of no concern to him.
His primary focus was on how to assist Qin Zhenzhen in expanding her wealth.
On this particr day, the academy was taking a break, affording Su Bin the opportunity to apany Qin Zhenzhen to the health center.
Unfortunately, as fate would have it, he crossed paths with Wang Yizhi and his corpulent wife.
While Su Bin had asionally encountered Wang Yizhi at the prefectural school, he had little inclination to engage with him. He simply preferred to distance himself.
He had no desire to concern himself with Wang Yizhi¡¯s circumstances.
Yet, as he observed Wang Yizhi now, he was taken aback.
The Wang Yizhi before him appeared gaunt and emaciated. Though his attire no longer betrayed the appearance of a destitute schr, he bore the marks of someone who seemed to have endured great hardship.
In stark contrast, his overweight wife radiated a robust vitality, seemingly brimming with boundless energy.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but recall the academy¡¯s whispers about how Wang Yizhi¡¯s ample wife possessed a particr ferocity in the nighttime hours. They alleged that Wang Yizhi could no longer fulfill her desires and that she maintained a secret lover on the side.
Yet, outwardly, she showed no intention of abandoning Wang Yizhi, ostensibly because she believed that Wang Yizhi was on the path to bing a High Schr.
In her eyes, once Wang Yizhi achieved this status, her father could secure him an official position. She was, after all, the daughter of an official.
Wang Yizhi seethed with resentment but dared not voice his grievances, for he knew that leaving her might render him unable to afford his continued education..
Chapter 257 - 257: High Fees
Chapter 257: High Fees
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Wang Yizhi apanied his wife, who was struggling with obesity, to seek the guidance of Qin Zhenzhen for fertility issues.
Three months prior, Wang Yizhi had brought his wife to Qin Zhenzhen for assistance with her infertility concerns.
However, on that initial visit, Qin Zhenzhen was not avable.
A monthter, they finally secured an appointment and met with Qin Zhenzhen. After a thorough evaluation, Qin Zhenzhen delivered her diagnosis, stating, ¡°Excessive weight is hindering her chances of conceiving.¡±
In women who grapple with excess weight, the umtion of body fat can disrupt the delicate bnce of hormones, causing fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone secretion from the ovaries.
This hormonal imbnce can impede the development and maturation of follicles, resulting in a shortage of mature eggs necessary for sessful conception.
Furthermore, the hormonal imbnces in overweight women can exacerbate their weight-rted symptoms.
In essence, if a significantly overweight woman does not address her condition promptly, she may continue to gain weight, making it increasingly challenging to be pregnant.
Recognizing the need for a more essible exnation, Qin Zhenzhen adjusted her approach.
At this point, Wang Yizhi¡¯s wife inquired, ¡°Is losing weight the solution?¡± Qin Zhenzhen nodded, affirming, ¡°Yes, weight loss is the key.¡±
Curious about the method, she inquired further, ¡°How can I achieve that?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen advised, ¡°For a quicker and more effective oue, consider abination of medical massage, acupuncture, dietary adjustments, along with regr exercise and prescribed medications to aid your recovery.¡±
The wife was taken aback when she asked about the cost.
Unhesitatingly, Qin Zhenzhen presented her fee structure.
¡°We will divide the treatment into five stages, focusing on progressive weight loss. The first stage, concentrating on initial weight reduction, will cost 1,000 liang. The second stage, intensifying the weight loss efforts, will be priced at 2,000 liang. The third stage, with a continued focus on weight loss, will be 4,000 liang.¡±
¡°The fourth phase will focus on recuperation, with the fee doublingpared to the previous phase. In the fifth phase, which emphasizes treatment, the fee will also doublepared to the preceding stage.¡±
Upon hearing this, the overweight woman erupted in anger, eximing, ¡°Are you trying to swindle me out of my money?¡±
¡°She¡¯s just as heavy as I am, and she¡¯s here for the same five-stage treatment.
Her cost is a mere hundred liang, while mine is a whopping thousand liang?¡±
¡°Why should I pay ten times more than her?¡±
In response, Qin Zhenzhen maintained herposure and exined, ¡°These prices are determined individually. Your particr physique presents unique challenges when ites to weight loss.¡±
¡°If you¡¯re distressed about the cost, you¡¯re free to leave!¡±
The steep pricing indeed sent Wang Yizhi and his wife packing, with an added suspicion that Qin Zhenzhen might be seeking revenge for Su Lan.
As they departed, the disgruntled woman muttered under her breath, ¡°What terrible luck! Out of all people, it had to be you! You¡¯re clearly out to get us!¡±
¡°They think they can fleece us? Not a chance!¡±
However, Huang Lihua, who was simrly overweight, managed to shed an impressive 30 kilograms in just one month at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s wellness center.
Her transformation left her looking many times more attractive than before.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s wife couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of envy and jealousy.
¡°How far along are you in the treatment?¡±
Huang Lihua replied, ¡°We¡¯ve justpleted the second stage. Miss Qin mentioned that we¡¯re aiming to shed another 10 kilograms in the third stage, so there¡¯s no need to continue losing weight beyond that.¡±
¡°Did you have to restrict your diet during the treatment?¡±
Huang Lihua shook her head, reassuringly, ¡°No, I can eat to my heart¡¯s content every day.¡±
¡°Do I seem like someone who can survive on a meager diet every day?¡± Hearing Huang Lihua¡¯s words struck a nerve.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s wife had consulted numerous doctors and tried various medications in her quest to ovee infertility. Ironically, her efforts seemed to exacerbate her weight gain.
She had experimented with numerous weight loss methods, some of which left her feeling so famished that she experienced dizziness. Eventually, she had resigned herself to her weight.
However, when she learned that Huang Lihua had sessfully be pregnant after only another month, she clenched her teeth and made the decision to seek out Qin Zhenzhen..
Chapter 258 - 258: Serves You Right
Chapter 258: Serves You Right
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Wang Yizhi also caught sight of Su Bin, but he couldn¡¯t bring himself to meet her gaze. His heart was burdened with profound regret.
Little did he know that Su Lan¡¯s family lineage traced back to the Marquis Mansion. It was a revtion that left him stunned.
While Su Bin hadn¡¯t immediately returned to the Marquis Mansion to im her heritage, rumors circted that the Old Marquis had generously supported them financially.
The funds for Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s business venture were entirely provided by the Old Marquis.
Although Su Lan hadn¡¯t apanied her younger siblings to the prefectural city, life in the Qian Family Vige had blossomed.
The enterprise of purchasing yam tablets had been taken over by Qian Shanmin. Beyond yam pills, they diversified into procuring various herbs and ingredients.
All these resources were exclusively for Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s use. Thanks to her needs, the vigers in the surrounding ten viges had been lifted out of poverty and into prosperity.
Anyone with determination could now earn a decent ie. Even a kilogram of white radish, previously of minimal value, could fetch a high price when processed into dried radish suitable for tea-making, following Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s
guidance.
Whenever the vigers encountered Su Lan, they would greet her with deep respect and express their gratitude for the prosperity her family had ushered into their lives.
Su Lan had undergone a transformation in both her appearance and spirit. Her vitality was evident, her cheeks flushed with health, and she appeared at least a decade younger than before.
When Wang Yizhiid eyes on Su Lan in town that day, he almost didn¡¯t recognize her. If not for the presence of Xiao Yu, he might not have believed it was her.
In many ways, Su Lan¡¯s visage was reminiscent of her appearance when she married him.
In the vige, everyone regarded Qin Zhenzhen as a miraculous healer. She possessed elixirs capable of resurrecting the dead, rejuvenating the aged, and extending one¡¯s life.
The Sn family, in particr, reaped immense benefits from her talents. Su Ning, Su Cheng, and Xiao Yu, once pale and undernourished, now boasted rosy cheeks and fuller figures.
Both Su Bin and Su Qing not only put on weight but also experienced a growth spurt.
Su Lan, in particr, underwent a remarkable transformation. Not only did she regain her youthful appearance, but she also radiated vitality and a newfound sense of nobility.
Gone were the days of early morning toil in the shadows andte-night embroidery, all without the warmth and understanding she now enjoyed.
Today, she had someone who cherished her, and their family had even hiredborers to prepare a sizable plot ofnd on the mountain for herb cultivation next spring.
Qian Shanmin assured Su Lan that she needn¡¯t exert herself; he would handle the hiring andbor arrangements.
In the past, he had unjustly viewed Su Lan as an aging, careworn woman because he hadn¡¯t recognized her true worth.
As the saying goes, a woman¡¯s beauty flourishes when her man cherishes her.
Wang Yizhi, ncing at his own worn physique, couldn¡¯t help but rue his folly.
Meanwhile, Wang Yizhi¡¯s plump wife attempted to negotiate with Qin Zhenzhen, convinced that every offering was well worth it.
However, Qin Zhenzhen asserted firmly, ¡°Our pricing is equitable. If you find it unsatisfactory, you¡¯re free to turn and depart. I won¡¯t escort you out.¡±
¡°Very well, then!¡± Wang Yizhi¡¯s stout wife reluctantly epted the terms and prepared to pay.
Nheless, Qin Zhenzhen added, ¡°I must rify that we were discussing the previous rate. Your current obesity presents an entirely different scenariopared to three months ago.¡±
¡°Furthermore, due to your haphazard consumption of various medicines, erratic eating habits, and the apanying endocrine imbnces, some of your internal organs have sustained significant damage.¡±
¡°Restoring your health now will demand considerably more time and involve a moreplex medicinal regimen than initially anticipated.¡±
¡°As a result, the current rate is 200 liang higher than the previous one, serving as an additional charge for the initial phase. This extra fee will umte in subsequent treatments..¡±
Chapter 259 - 259: Just Outside
Chapter 259: Just Outside
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Wang Yizhi¡¯s plump wife immediately bristled with anger, ready to unleash her scolding.
Wang Yizhi, however, swiftly intervened to halt her.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s tone remained frigid as she uttered, ¡°To put it inly, my stance hasn¡¯t changed. If you¡¯re willing to pay, proceed; if not, kindly leave.¡±
Initially, she had contemted extracting a hefty sum from them, but now, a sense of revulsion welled up within her as she regarded them. She had, after all, generously extended a fair price to avoid dealing with them.
What she¡¯d just spoken was the unvarnished truth. In her current condition, recovery was an uphill battle.
Without the aid of the spirit water, she was firmly convinced that no physician could facilitate her recuperation.
Wang Yizhi steered his rotund spouse aside, sharing a few hushed words with her. Only then did she relinquish the funds to activate the card.
Qin Zhenzhen found herself taken aback. Were they truly willing to part with such a considerable sum of money?
Had she known earlier, she would have requested a higher sum in silver.
As the corpulent wife proceeded to settle the payment, Wang Yizhi leaned in closer to Qin Zhenzhen and whispered, ¡°Miss Qin, I have a favor to ask.¡±
Unmoved, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t even nce in his direction. ¡°I have no interest in helping you.¡±
Wang Yizhi contemted a second attempt, but Su Bin shot him a venomous re. ¡°Disappear! Stay away from my wife!¡±
Su Bin¡¯s re cut like a de. Wang Yizhi couldn¡¯t help but shiver.
Among all his brothers-inw, Wang Yizhi had previously regarded Su Bin as the most challenging to handle.
Now that Su Bin¡¯s true identity had been unveiled, and with everyone acknowledging him as the heir to the Marquis Mansion, Wang Yizhi found Su Bin to be an even more daunting figure.
In that moment, Wang Yizhi¡¯s rotund wife called him over, and he hastened to attend to her.
Su Bin wore a discontented expression. ¡°Today has been quite an unlucky day!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen countered with a smile, ¡°Consider the money they just spent.
Your luck might change.¡±
Wang Yizhi and the otherspleted their payments and activated their cards. Qin Zhenzhen delegated Wang Yizhi¡¯s corpulent wife to Chen Shanshan and Su Ning.
Initially, she instructed them to guide the overweight woman through some basic weight-loss exercises, and soon, beads of sweat adorned her brow.
The rotund wife, yearning to summon Wang Yizhi to attend to her, found her intentions thwarted by Grandma Qin.
The treatment room buzzed with the presence of women, strictly prohibiting any male entry.
The corpulentdy, known for her penchant to torment Wang Yizhi, reluctantly allowed her maids to serve him, granting him a temporary reprieve.
With newfound freedom, Wang Yizhi contemted seeking out Qin Zhenzhen once more. Yet, he faced the grim reality that Qin Zhenzhen had no inclination to see him.
Left with no other recourse, he retrieved a folded note written long ago and requested the health center¡¯s maids to deliver it to Qin Zhenzhen, who was secluded in the inner room.
Within the inner room, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin shared a tranquil tea-drinking moment. Observing Su Bin¡¯s graceful gestures, she couldn¡¯t help but be captivated.
At some point, Su Bin had mastered the art of tea-making and insisted on personally preparing it for Qin Zhenzhen.
His natural good looks were enhanced by his refined movements, particrly those involving his hands, rendering the entire scene visually pleasing.
Su Bin presented the tea to Qin Zhenzhen and inquired softly, ¡°My dear, how do I look?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen yfully clicked her tongue. ¡°It¡¯s just skin deep!¡±
Their rapport had evolved to the point where they interacted as if they were old friends.
Nevertheless, they had not yet crossed that threshold.
Qin Zhenzhen found Su Bin¡¯s behavior rather intriguing. In private moments when no one else was present, he would address her as ¡°my wife.¡± The more he used the term, the more naturally it flowed from him.
At times, his tone was so tender that it felt as though he was trying to wring out every drop of affection.
Curiously, he appeared to be growing more attentive to her needs, surpassing the concern he showed his own wife as a husband.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but wonder if he had fallen in love with her.
However, Su Bin had never confessed his feelings. Instead, he engaged with her as if she were a close friend, almost like how he might interact with a trusted confidant.
In essence, Su Bin seemed to regard her as a dear friend, someone with whom he could share his thoughts without reservation..
Chapter 260 - 260: Listen to You
Chapter 260: Listen to You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°This tea is rather delightful!¡± Qin Zhenzhen eximed with genuine enthusiasm.
The tea¡¯s creator, on the other hand, was even more impressive. He possessed both good looks and a gentle demeanor.
Chuckling to herself, Wen Ya acted as a mere facade; her true nature concealed a darker heart.
Just then, a maid from the health center delivered a letter from Wang Yizhi.
¡°Miss Qin, this is from the plump madam¡¯s husband,¡± the maid informed.
Before Qin Zhenzhen could reach for it, Su Bin swiftly snatched the letter away.
¡°How dare you read a letter from such an immoral person?¡± Su Bin eximed.
Qin Zhenzhen watched Su Bin¡¯s childish actions and stifled herughter.
¡°There¡¯s no harm in taking a peek. After all, you know I¡¯m immune to poison,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied.
Su Bin said, ¡°I¡¯ll read it aloud so that you won¡¯t soil your hands or your eyes.¡± Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at Su Bin¡¯s theatrics. ¡°Very well, go ahead.¡±
With her permission, Su Bin opened the envelope and withdrew the folded paper inside. To his surprise, a banknote worth a hundred taels fell out.
As Su Bin read the letter¡¯s contents, his face flushed with anger.
Puzzled, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°What did the letter say? Why was there a banknote?¡±
Su Bin hesitated, avoiding her gaze. ¡°Do you really want to know the contents?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen furrowed her brow, even more intrigued. ¡°I can choose not to read his letter, but you did promise to tell me. You can¡¯t backtrack on your word.¡±
Su Bin blushed even deeper for some inexplicable reason.
Qin Zhenzhen prodded, ¡°What nonsense did he write? Are you too embarrassed to share it?¡±
Su Binposed himself, then reluctantly revealed the letter¡¯s contents to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°He mentioned that this money was his personal savings, all he has left. He offered it all to you as a gesture of goodwill, given our past familial ties. He has a unique request for you.¡±
¡°He¡¯s asking if, while assisting his wife in her weight loss journey, you could implement a rule limiting their intimate rtions to no more than four times a month. He exined that he¡¯s finding it physically taxing, and he¡¯s concerned it might lead to exhaustion.¡±
¡°In his closing words, he emphasized the need to keep this matter strictly confidential.¡¯
Qin Zhenzhen was momentarily taken aback before bursting intoughter.
¡°Is this for real? No wonder he looks that way!¡±
¡°No wonder you blushed!¡± she teased.
In reality, Qin Zhenzhen had already seen through the situation, but she didn¡¯t expect Wang Yizhi to be bold enough to seek her help. He wasn¡¯t afraid of her sharing it with others, even if it meant the vigers would ridicule him.
Su Bin gave her an odd look, considering that she was a woman who had never been intimate with a man. He found it surprising that she wasn¡¯t embarrassed by such a topic.
As a man, he had blushed when reading the letter.
Qin Zhenzhen exined matter-of-factly, ¡°We¡¯re medical students. We¡¯re not easily embarrassed by such matters. Anything more explicit than this is well within ourfort zone.¡¯
Unexpectedly, Su Bin prodded further, ¡°Then, tell me, what would be considered more explicit?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen tactfully avoided that topic. ¡°Let¡¯s seal the letter and have it returned to him. I¡¯ll instruct the maid to convey that I didn¡¯t read it and that he needn¡¯t be concerned.¡±
Su Bin nodded, saying, ¡°As you wish.¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhenter discovered that despite Su Bin¡¯s outward agreement, he had taken a different course of action in private.
He should have hired someone to suggest to the plumpdy that increasing her sexual activity could aid in her weight loss.
Engaging in vigorous nightly exercise could have yielded twice the results with half the effort.
However, Wang Yizhi eventually fell seriously ill and came close to losing his life. It was then that the plumpdy exposed their rtionship scandalously.
These scandals nearly led to Wang Yizhi¡¯s expulsion from the academy.
In a surprising turn of events, the plumpdy used a sum of silver to salvage his academic standing.
But these were tales for another time.
For someone like Wang Yizhi, if the heavens didn¡¯t favor him, there would always be those who did..
Chapter 261 - 261: Entering the Capital
Chapter 261: Entering the Capital
Soon, the year came to a close, and Qin Zhenzhen and herpanions decided to return to Qian Family Vige to celebrate the New Year.
The uing marriage of Su Lan and Qian Shanmin was to be a highlight during the festivities.
Qin Zhenzhen, along with Su Bin and Su Ning, arrived ten days in advance to join in the preparations.
Su Qing, Su Ping, and Qin Silong, on the other hand, were scheduled to return just a few days before the New Year.
Their first stop upon returning was the Qin family home.
When they saw Grandma Qin¡¯s renewed vitality with their own eyes, a wave of joy swept over Qin Zhenzhen and her family.
The entire vige gathered to witness the extraordinary sight, and their astonishment was palpable as they beheld this remarkable event firsthand.
Word quickly spread that Qin Zhenzhen possessed divine healing abilities.
Qin Zhenzhen also made an official announcement, ¡°Father, Mother, I have purchased arge house in the prefectural city. After the New Year, our entire family will be relocating there, as I will need your assistance.¡±
In theing spring, Qin Silong was determined to undergo military training, just as he had in his previous life. His goal was not only to be a tribune but to rise even higher, aspiring to be a general.
He believed that by obtaining military authority, he could better protect his family and prevent them from falling under the influence of the Jiang family.
Qin Zhenzhen fully supported her Fourth Brother¡¯s decision to join the military camp.
In his dreams, Qin Silong retained vivid memories of his previous experiences in the military camp. He was intimately familiar with every battle and could recall the causes and oues of each conflict.
With the knowledge he had gained, he believed that he could alter the course of past failed battles and save numerous lives. This would not only strengthen the border¡¯s defense but also ensure greater stability in the region.
During that time, it seemed like an opportune moment for Fourth Brother to make significant contributions in the military.
However, once Fourth Brother embarked on his journey to the military camp, Qin Zhenzhen faced a dilemma. Shecked dependable individuals to oversee her workshop in the prefectural city.
cingplete trust in Su Ping was not an option at this juncture. Moreover, Su Ping¡¯s strong admiration for her Fourth Brother raised concerns that he might follow him to the military camp.
If both of them were to leave, Qin Zhenzhen would need to bring in her own trusted personnel.
Qin Dalong had some reservations about leaving behind the familiar surroundings of Qin Family Vige and the town¡¯s pork shop.
Having been involved in the pig ughtering profession from a young age, he had developed a deep attachment to this line of work. It provided a steady ie and ensured he could put food on the table. He considered his current life to be reasonably satisfactory.
However, Qin Erlong and Qin Sanlong expressed their eagerness to relocate to the prefecture capital. In particr, Qin Sanlong, who was yet to marry, saw the potential for a career change as a positive opportunity.
Although butchering allowed him to earn a living, it also came with its downsides, including the constant dirt and the prospect of doing the same job for the rest of his life.
Joining the family in the prefectural city to learn the ropes of business held a different appeal for him.
Ultimately, they reached a decision: Qin Dalong, his wife, children, and the two elders would remain in their hometown for the time being, while the rest of the family would head to the prefecture capital.
Due to time constraints, Su Lan and Qian Shanmin¡¯s wedding took ce in the two days preceding the New Year, with the entire vige in attendance.
After the New Year festivities, Qin Zhenzhen and herpanions returned to the prefectural city. However, before the Lunar New Year¡¯s first month had passed, an emissary from the pce arrived in the prefectural capital, apanied by members of the Jiang family, to deliver an imperial edict.
It was conveyed that the Empress Dowager¡¯s health had taken a turn for the worse, and there was word of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s exceptional medical prowess. The pce requested that both Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin enter the pce to provide treatment to the ailing Empress Dowager.
Reluctantly, Qin Zhenzhen had to ept the imperial edict, though her inner thoughts were filled with frustration. She wondered why they required her and Grandma Qin when the imperial court boasted numerous imperial physicians. Was there a hidden agenda at y? Or was it because they had drawn too much attention?
Nevertheless, an imperial edict was not something to be disregarded, and the looming storm could not be avoided indefinitely.
On the day they received the imperial edict, Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin were prepared to apany the pce representatives into the capital.
It was then that Su Bin proposed joining them, stating, ¡°We¡¯re all in this together. ¡±
¡°Agreed!¡± Qin Zhenzhen readily epted the suggestion. She had initially nned to leverage Su Bin¡¯s identity in her dealings with the Jiang family.
Given Su Bin¡¯s proactive proposal, she had no intention of rejecting his offer..
Chapter 262 - 262: Because We Are Here
Chapter 262: Because We Are Here
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong¡¯s deep concern for Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma¡¯s safetypelled him to follow them closely.
As Su Ping was Qin Silong¡¯s loyal follower, it was only natural for him to shadow his steps.
Fortuitously, Qin Erlong and Qin Sanlong had been discreetly observing their activities for some time, gaining a rudimentary understanding of the workshop¡¯s operations.
Together, they embarked on a carriage journey towards the capital city. Inside one of the carriages, an eunuch from the pce shared space with a man from the Jiang family.
Qin Zhenzhen, her grandma, and Su Bin upied the other carriage, while Qin Silong and four pce guards vigntly guarded both vehicles.
Su Bin typically engaged in lively conversations when alone with Qin Zhenzhen, but in the presence of her grandma, he transformed into apletely different person. During the journey, he remained reticent, listening attentively to Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma.
The trip from the prefectural city to the capital was estimated to take about three days. On the first night, Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma shared a room.
Grandma Qin let out a sigh, expressing her concerns. ¡°Zhenzhen, I fear that I might have inadvertently ced you in jeopardy this time.¡±
Puzzled, Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°But shouldn¡¯t I be the one causing trouble, Grandma?¡±
Shaking her head, Grandma Qin replied, ¡°No, my dear. I am too naive.¡± ¡°In the beginning, I believed that the Jiang family had relinquished their attempts to control you. However, it now appears that they haven¡¯t given up yet.¡±
Curious, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°What did Jiang Cha, who was speaking with you earlier, say?¡± During their meal, Qin Zhenzhen had noticed Jiang Cha conversing privately with her grandma.
Following this revtion, Grandma Qin¡¯s mood took a noticeable downturn.
Grandma Qin disclosed, ¡°He informed me that the Empress Dowager has requested your assistance with a long-standing headache issue.¡±
¡°She has suffered from this persistent headache for over a decade. Despite numerous attempts by imperial physicians to alleviate her condition, no remedy has proven effective.¡±
¡°I even tried to bring amon doctor into the pce to treat her, but her ailment defied all attempts at a cure.¡±
¡°Over the years of enduring this tormenting ailment, the Empress Dowager¡¯s temperament has grown increasingly vtile. She endured excruciating acupuncture treatments and ingested foul-tasting medicines, all to no avail. Her frustration often led her to issue orders for executions.
¡°For this reason, many imperial physicians and civilian doctors have met their end at hermand.¡±
¡°I fear that if you don¡¯t attend to the Empress Dowager¡¯s needs satisfactorily, she may resort to severe punishment or even execution if displeased.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen could sense the anger in her grandma¡¯s voice and inquired softly, ¡°Grandma, did you have dealings with this Empress Dowager in the past?¡±
Grandma Qin nodded solemnly. ¡°A few times.¡±
¡°Back then, she was still the Crown Princess Consort. She and Jiang Qing were friends! ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen grasped the connection. Jiang Qing, her grandma¡¯s eldest sister, was the one responsible for her grandma¡¯s past suffering. It was Jiang Qing¡¯s connection to the Crown Princess Consort that had allowed her to carry out such a heinous act against Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s grandma.
Qin Zhenzhen fell into contemtive silence, understanding that these were times when imperial power held unparalleled sway. She had often witnessed such scenes in historical dramas, where ailing princesses, princes, or concubines summoned teams of imperial physicians. The emperor would issue stern ultimatums, threatening dire consequences if the patient¡¯s condition remained untreated.
The Empress Dowager¡¯s longevity in the pce was a testament to her ruthlessness. In such circumstances, taking a life was as simple as squashing an ant.
Furthermore, the prolonged suffering from her illness had deeply warped her mindset.
Qin Zhenzhen reassured her grandma, saying, ¡°Grandma, please don¡¯t fret. I believe I can alleviate that old witch¡¯s headache.¡±
¡°You need not concern yourself with the possibility of Jiang Qing conspiring with the Empress Dowager to harm you any longer.¡±
¡°We¡¯re here together!¡±
Chapter 263 - 263: A Mighty General
Chapter 263: A Mighty General
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
They embarked on their journey exceptionally early the following day.
Su Bin had kept silent throughout the entire previous day, as though suppressing his curiosity. Now, he could no longer contain his desire to witness the unfolding scenery beyond.
He gently raised the curtain, revealing the receding emerald-hued mountains in the distance. His gaze then shifted to Qin Silong and Su Ping, who were gracefully mounted on their horses, prompting him to delve into profound contemtion.
Even Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t resist the allure of the outside world and peered through the window.
Suddenly, Su Bin turned to her with a curious inquiry, ¡°Do you ever get the feeling that your fourth brother has experienced life on the battlefield?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was momentarily taken aback before a smile graced her lips. ¡°Really? How did you deduce that?¡±
Su Bin exined, ¡°It¡¯s in his eyes; there¡¯s a certain aura thates from a seasoned rider.¡±
¡°Have you noticed that my second brother¡¯s equestrian skills pale inparison?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen questioned Su Bin further, ¡°Why is that surprising? Your second brother is my fourth brother¡¯s disciple. Naturally, his skills wouldn¡¯t match up. Haven¡¯t you heard the saying that sometimes, students surpass their masters?¡±
Although Qin Silong had not officially agreed to impart martial arts to him yet, he had alreadymenced Su Bin¡¯s education in horsemanship several months earlier. He had even taught him the fundamentals of riding and archery.
Su Bin felt a surge of excitement; he had long regarded Qin Silong as his master.
However, a lingering suspicion gnawed at him. ¡°I¡¯ve never heard of your fourth brother being proficient in horse riding before.¡±
For ordinary farmers, the mere sight of horses was a rare urrence, let alone the ability to ride and shoot.
Yet, Qin Silong possessed these skills, leaving Su Bin bewildered. He recalled the day he had followed his second brother to observe them during their equestrian and archery practice, an experience that had left him with a multitude of unanswered questions.
Qin Silong astride his horse, charged forth with grace. In one fluid motion, he drew his bow and expertly nocked an arrow, and astonishingly, nine out of ten arrows found their mark within the bullseye.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but sense an air of mystery surrounding Qin Silong, much like Qin Zhenzhen. It appeared that he harbored undisclosed talents and hidden depths.
¡°Even if he possesses a natural affinity for horsemanship, one can¡¯t easily acquire such skills without proper guidance,¡± Su Bin mused aloud. ¡°Riding and archery are not ordinary pursuits; they require more than mere intuition. I¡¯ve never heard of someone mastering them without a teacher.¡±
He continued to observe Qin Silong closely. ¡°And the way he carries himself, it¡¯s evident he didn¡¯t teach himself.¡¯
¡°Doesn¡¯t it strike you as peculiar how knowledgeable he is?¡± Su Bin¡¯s gaze remained fixed on Qin Zhenzhen.
In an attempt to ay his suspicions, Qin Zhenzhen fabricated a story. ¡°Well, what¡¯s so unusual about that?¡±
¡°My fourth brother has had a passion for horses since childhood. He used to visit our uncle¡¯s house often, and our uncle is a renowned equestrian expert.¡±
¡°In his youth, my fourth brother had already honed his equestrian and archery skills. Unfortunately, our family couldn¡¯t afford a horse back then. I recall him moring to acquire one.¡±
Su Bin remained skeptical. ¡°Is that so?¡±
However, a nagging doubt lingered in his mind, telling him that Qin Silong¡¯s abilities did not appear to be solely gleaned from their uncle¡¯s teachings. He had witnessed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s uncle ride a horse before, and theparison was stark¡ªQin Silong was far superior.
Noticing Su Bin¡¯s skepticism, Qin Zhenzhen cast a meaningful nce in his direction.
¡°In truth, you¡¯re not well-acquainted with my family¡¯s history.¡±
¡°Since we¡¯re on the subject, I¡¯ll share a little-known fact: my fourth brother has harbored a lifelong dream since childhood¡ªhe aspires to be a formidable general.¡±
¡°From a young age, he held an admiration for the soldiers stationed in the military camp, and he was resolute in his determination to join their ranks.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s face lit up with understanding. ¡°So, based on what you¡¯re saying, your fourth brother intends to enlist in the military camp thising spring?
Qin Zhenzhen affirmed with a nod. ¡°Exactly! Towards the end ofst year, my fourth brother got wind of the news that this spring¡¯s recruitment will epass seven or eight counties within our prefecture.¡±
¡°As long as one meets the physical fitness requirements and doesn¡¯t exceed the age limit, they can enlist in the military camp..¡±
Chapter 264 - 264: Blood Boiling
Chapter 264 - 264: Blood Boiling
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin inquired, ¡°Is this the reason you brought your second and third brothers to the prefecture capital?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded affirmatively, saying, ¡°Yes, indeed.¡±
Little did she anticipate that Su Bin would approach her after dinner.
¡°Second Brother, I have something I¡¯d like to ask you.¡± ¡°What¡¯s on your mind?¡± Second Brother inquired.
¡°I¡¯m curious, are you nning to stay with Oin Silong indefinitely?¡±
He nodded decisively. ¡°As long as he doesn¡¯t push me away, I¡¯ll likely remain by his side.¡±
He borated, ¡°Third Brother, you might not be aware, but Qin Silong possesses a multitude of hidden talents! He¡¯s an exceptionally capable individual.¡±
Unashamedly, he confessed, ¡°I¡¯m not embarrassed to admit it. I genuinely look up to him now. I even dream about bing his disciple.¡±
Su Bin interjected with a hint of caution, ¡°That depends on whether he¡¯s willing or not.¡±
In reality, Su Bin could discern that Qin Silong harbored some prejudice against his second brother.
Initially, Qin Silong¡¯s attitude toward the second brother had been extremely hostile, if not downright antagonistic. Su Bin believed it stemmed from his second brother¡¯s outburst that day when he tried to teach them a lesson.
However, heter realized his misjudgment.
During that period, Su Qing, his fourth brother, had also shown interest in sparring with the Qin brothers. Qin Silong, however, exhibited a remarkable fondness for his fourth brother.
To the extent that he would save the most delicious treats for Su Qing.
Qin Silong had also expressed numerous times his desire to instruct the Fourth Brother in horseback riding and archery. If it weren¡¯t for the fact that Su Qing had little interest in the art of des and swords, Qin Silong would have taken him on as his disciple long ago.
Qin Silong¡¯s notably distinct treatment of his second and fourth brothers left Su Bin thoroughly perplexed.
In the end, he couldn¡¯t help but conclude that fate had a peculiar way of ying its hand, indifferent to his own concerns.
Initially, Su Bin had contemted advising his Second Brother against constantly ingratiating himself with those who were aloof. He couldn¡¯t help but acknowledge that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s insight had some merit: ¡°Sometimes, you need to shield your heart. If it refuses to warm up, perhaps it¡¯s time to let go.¡±
However, after Second Brother had courageously taken a knife for Qin Silong, a remarkable transformation had urred in Qin Silong¡¯s attitude towards him. The once-hostile gaze had softened into a harmonious coexistence.
Gradually, Qin Silong began imparting his knowledge of horseback riding and archery to Second Brother, deepening their mutual admiration.
Though martial arts training from Qin Silong had yet to be agreed upon,
Second Brother remained undeterred. ¡°Isn¡¯t he already instructing me?¡±
¡°I intend to begin with riding and marksmanship. I¡¯ll gradually delve into the other skills,¡± he confidently dered.
Su Bin decided it was prudent to inform Second Brother about Qin Silong¡¯s n to enlist in the military camp, preventing any unforeseen shock or disbelief.
¡°I just learned from Qin Zhenzhen that Qin Silong¡¯s aspiration is to be a general. He intends to enlist in the uing spring recruitment for the military camp.¡±
¡°Really? Where is the recruitment taking ce, and has the announcement for this spring been made?¡±
Su Bin responded, ¡°The announcement hasn¡¯t been released yet, but Qin Silong has received word that the recruitment this spring will epass seven or eight counties under the jurisdiction of the prefecture capital.¡±
¡°When the timees, Qin Silong will undoubtedly enlist.¡±
¡°I want to join the military camp too! I aspire to be a general as well!¡±
Su Bin stared at him in astonishment. ¡°Are you genuinely prepared to endure the rigors of military life?¡±
¡°Take a moment to reflect on this. Enrolling in the military camp means not only enduring hardships but also being potentially thrust into the battlefield, where your life may hang in the bnce at any given moment!¡±
Su Bin¡¯s words stoked the fires within him. He remembered his brother-inw¡¯s fearless deeds, defending the border against invaders by valiantly vanquishing foes..
Chapter 265 - 265: Not a Cowardly Person
Chapter 265 - 265: Not a Cowardly Person
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
He dwelled on the image of his injured brother-inw and the words of wisdom imparted by his sister-inw.
When he heard the utterances of Third Sister-inw, a surge of determination coursed through him. It was then that the idea of enlisting in the military took root in his mind.
In fact, he had persistently beseeched Qin Silong to instruct him in the ways of martial arts and share his knowledge. His objective was to acquire a deeper skillset prior to his impending military service.
¡°Do you recall what my third sister-inw mentioned the other day?¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw is absolutely right! One must safeguard their homnd before they can truly call it a home. A true man is duty-bound to protect his country!¡±
¡°Even if it meansying down my life for the sake of the nation, it would be a noble sacrifice. Besides, I am no coward.
¡°Third Brother, do you oppose my decision to join the military?
Su Bin fixed his gaze upon his younger sibling for a prolonged moment before responding.
¡°I do not oppose your decision to enlist in the military. I merely wish to remind you that the military world differs significantly from the realm of martial arts.¡± ¡°You must have heard that in the military, orders are akin to an unyielding mountain. Once you be a part of the military establishment, you must adhere to orders without question, for that is the foremost rule.¡±
¡°I am merely concerned about your temperament. When the timees¡¡±
Su Ping interjected, cutting off Su Bin. ¡°Third Brother, you may not know me as well as you think!¡±
¡°Now that I¡¯ve made up my mind to serve in the military, I won¡¯t treat it as a mere pastime!¡±
¡°Rest assured, I won¡¯t bring shame to you!¡±
Su Bin had never witnessed such earnestness in his younger sibling. Regardless of whether Su Bin could follow through on his words, he felt a sense of pride.
Nevertheless, he feltpelled to issue a cautionary note. ¡°Younger Brother, be prepared for hardship once you enter the military camp.¡±
¡°I know!¡±
¡°I¡¯ve given it considerable thought. It¡¯s true that we shouldn¡¯t return to the Marquis Mansion to acknowledge our kin, but we mustn¡¯t allow ourselves to be looked down upon by those connected to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°Third Brother, I know you¡¯re working hard to achieve recognition and help our father earn a livelihood.
¡°As the eldest son of the family, it¡¯s my duty to consider fighting for our father¡¯s sake.¡¯
¡°However, I¡¯m not cut out for studying or conducting business. My only viable path is the military camp.¡±
¡°If I am unfortunate and meet my end in service to the country, I won¡¯t have any regrets.¡±
¡°But if luck favors me and I make a significant contribution, potentially bing an official, it would bring honor to Father. It would be sce for him in the afterlife.¡¯
¡°Simultaneously, it would demonstrate to those in the Marquis Mansion that even without the status of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s young master, we can still rise through our own hard work.¡±
Upon hearing Second Brother¡¯s resolve, Su Bin felt even more heartened.
¡°Second Brother, I stand by your decision!¡±
Since Second Brother was determined to join the military camp, Su Bin couldn¡¯t dissuade him.
In truth, Second Brother¡¯s decision might not be a bad one after all.
At the very least, it would detach him from those undesirable acquaintances.
Su Bin wouldn¡¯t need to worry about his younger sibling taking a wayward path.
Su Bin shared this with Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen smiled genuinely and inquired of Su Bin, ¡°You agree?¡±
Su Bin responded honestly, ¡°I didn¡¯t initially agree. I was concerned that given
Second Brother¡¯s disposition, he might struggle with the discipline of the
military camp, potentially endangering his lite.¡±
¡°But, after listening to Second Brother¡¯s words, I lent him my support.¡±
¡°I have a favor to ask of you. If my second brother indeed joins the military camp, could you request your fourth brother to look after him?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen readily agreed, saying, ¡°Of course!¡±
She was right. If he was determined to enlist in the military camp, she would ensure he went there under the guidance of her fourth brother.
Once he entered the military camp, it would mark a profound shift in the storyline..
Chapter 266 - 266: Qin Silong Thought It Through
Chapter 266 - 266: Qin Silong Thought It Through
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When Su Bin informed Qin Zhenzhen about it, he had already rushed to inquire of Qin Silong.
¡°Brother Qin, I¡¯ve heard that you¡¯re nning to enroll in the military camp. Is this true?¡±
Qin Silong was taken aback. ¡°How did you find out about my intention to join the military camp?¡±
¡°Your younger sister-inw mentioned it to my younger brother, who then ryed the information to me.¡±
So it was his sister who had spilled the beans. No wonder Qin Silong had a suspicion about his sister¡¯s intentions.
Qin Silong nodded. ¡°Yes, I am. I¡¯m uncertain if I¡¯ll be able to pass the entrance exam, though.¡±
¡°Brother Qin, if anyone can pass the exam, it¡¯s you.¡±
Qin Silong gave him a sidelong nce. ¡°No need for ttery. Do you have something else to say?¡±
¡°I also want to enlist in the military camp alongside you!¡±
Qin Silong responded in a nonchnt tone, ¡°If you wish to join, go ahead and enlist. You don¡¯t need to inform me specifically.¡±
¡°Even if we both attend the military camp, there¡¯s a chance we won¡¯t be separated.¡±
Qin Silong continued to resist him. Although he was a bit disappointed, Su Bin pressed on.
¡°I understand that. The military camp is quite extensive, so the likelihood of us being separated is minimal.¡±
¡°I mean, in case we do get separated, we can look out for each other. What do you think?¡±
Qin Silong was initially ignoring him.
However, Su Bin persisted, saying, ¡°If we end up together, it must be fate. We¡¯ll watch each other¡¯s backs.¡±
He decided to support his sister¡¯s wishes. If he attended the military camp, it might change his fate.
Upon hearing this, Su Ping broke into a smile. ¡°In that case, Brother Qin, I¡¯ll express my gratitude in advance!¡±
Qin Silong felt a bit awkward. ¡°Why are you thanking me? I mean, we should watch out for each other. We¡¯re all new recruits, after all.
¡°Brother Qin, your martial arts and archery skills are exceptional. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll rise through the ranks quickly in the military camp. Perhaps I¡¯ll even be assigned under yourmand.¡±
¡°At that time, I¡¯ll truly depend on you for guidance!¡±
His words weren¡¯t just empty ttery. Qin Silong didn¡¯t detect any insincerity in his tone.
Qin Silong gave him a stern look. ¡°Why don¡¯t you have any ambition?¡±
¡°I might be amoner, but in your case, you¡¯re from the Marquis Mansion¡¯s lineage. Why don¡¯t you aim high and believe you can hold an official position?¡± ¡°Rank in the military is earned through contributions, not your background.¡±
¡°But I¡¯m not saying this because Ick ambition or don¡¯t want an official position. It¡¯s because I genuinely believe your rank will surpass mine.¡±
¡°Because I genuinely think you¡¯re more capable.¡±
In that moment, Qin Silong realized something he had been grappling with for a while.
Indeed, if he managed to attain an officer¡¯s position in the military camp, the likelihood of him turning to a life of banditry would diminish significantly. Otherwise, he¡¯d always worry about sumbing to the bandit lifestyle once more if he left the camp.
If he became a bandit again, Qin Silong might be sent to eradicate the bandits, potentially putting his family in danger.
It appeared he needed to support hispanion and aim for a swift promotion once they entered the military camp..
Chapter 267 - 267: Saving Su Ping
Chapter 267 - 267: Saving Su Ping
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Do you have an interest in learning martial arts from me?¡±
¡°Yes! Are you willing to teach me?¡±
Qin Silong responded, ¡°If you genuinely desire to learn, starting today, I will formally instruct you in martial arts.¡±
His excitement was so overwhelming that he was on the verge of kneeling to request apprenticeship.
Qin Silong reacted promptly, pulling him up and stating, ¡°I¡¯m willing to impart martial arts techniques to you, but I won¡¯t assume the role of your master.¡±
¡°There are two reasons for this. Firstly, the martial arts techniques I¡¯ve acquired are rather intricate, akin to amalgamating the strengths of countless schools. I have no allegiance to any specific sect.¡±
¡°The second reason is that I¡¯ve never contemted taking on a disciple. My intent in teaching you martial arts is to enable you to earn merits and achieve a higher status upon entering the military camp!¡±
¡°Typically, when new recruits join the military camp, they select a decurion within a month.¡±
¡°If a decurion prevails, they won¡¯t need to make any contributions; they simply need to employ their strength to dominate their peers.¡±
¡°How did you be so knowledgeable about the military camp? Do you even know how to choose a decurion?¡±
Qin Silong borated, ¡°What¡¯s so challenging about that? If you have the determination to inquire, you¡¯ll undoubtedly be well-versed in all the intricacies. ¡±
¡°Ever since I was young, my aspiration was to enter the military camp. I¡¯ve longprehended the inner workings of the military camp through insights from my uncle.¡±
¡°You need not ridicule my less than pure intentions, and you shouldn¡¯t assume that I joined the military camp solely for personal advancement and wealth.¡±
¡°Perhaps you¡¯ve heard the saying that soldiers who don¡¯t aspire to be generals are not exceptional soldiers!¡±
¡°Hence, as we embark on our journey into the military camp, our duty extends beyond safeguarding our nation; we must also nurture lofty aspirations. We shallmence as decurions and ascend the ranks to achieve the status of a general! ¡±
¡°For only by upying a significant position with genuine authority can we effectively contribute to our country¡¯s welfare and protection!¡±
Upon concluding his words, Qin Silong appeared to exhale a sigh of relief.
Stirring within his heart the desire to pursue a career in government service and imbuing him with a clear purpose had not been an easy feat. Fortunately, his words had struck a chord.
¡°Brother Qin, you¡¯re absolutely correct!¡±
¡°Listening to your wisdom is more enlightening than a decade of study!¡±
¡°I vow that upon entering the military camp, I shall begin as a decurion and steadily ascend the ranks!¡±
Qin Silong responded, ¡°Precisely. That¡¯s why I won¡¯t instruct you in martial arts techniques.¡±
¡°Agreed. Upon entering the military camp, we shall not only support each other but also inspire one another to see who can progress more swiftly.¡± ¡°Are you suggesting apetition between us?¡±
Qin Silong nodded. ¡°Indeed, it adds an element of excitement!¡±
¡°Very well, it¡¯s a pact!¡±
¡°With approximately two months remaining until the spring recruitment, I will impart all the martial arts knowledge at my disposal to you. The extent of your learning will depend on your diligence and fortune.¡±
He ced a hand on his chest and pledged, ¡°I will give it my all. You won¡¯t be disappointed!¡±
Qin Silong sought out Qin Zhenzhen.
To convey his thoughts¡
¡°I hope this willpletely alter his destiny.¡±
Only by changing his fate could he change the fate of his entire family.
Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°Honestly, I share your sentiment.¡±
¡°I can¡¯t assure you that this approach will definitively alter his destiny.¡±
¡°Yet, aside from enlisting in the military camp, I¡¯m hard-pressed to envision an alternative course.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen harbored concerns that he might opt to return to the Marquis Mansion and descend into a life of frivolity. In such a scenario, hispanions might be his sycophants, steering him down a misguided path.
In such a case, it could very well align with the narrative outlined in the original book..
Chapter 268 - 268: The Temptation of Jiang Cha
Chapter 268: The Temptation of Jiang Cha
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ping informed Su Bin about Qin Silong¡¯s promise to him.
¡°Third Sister-inw must have spoken highly of me. Third Brother, please convey my gratitude to Third Sister-inw,¡± Su Bin responded with a nod, though he couldn¡¯t help feeling puzzled.
Why had Qin Silong¡¯s attitude towards his second brother suddenly changed? And why had Qin Zhenzhen forewarned him about Qin Silong¡¯s military camp visit? Could there be a connection between these events?
These questions lingered in Su Bin¡¯s mind, leading him to seek out Qin Zhenzhen. When he arrived at her room, he found Jiang Cha in conversation with them. Not wanting to intrude, Su Bin lingered nearby to listen.
Inside the room, Grandma Qin expressed her dissatisfaction, ¡°Jiang Cha, get straight to the point and stop beating around the bush!¡±
Jiang Cha responded calmly, ¡°First and foremost, I want to rify that it wasn¡¯t the Jiang family¡¯s rmendation; it was the pce¡¯s request for Zhenzhen to provide a consultation. We wouldn¡¯t harm our own people, and Zhenzhen is the most promising talent among our generation in the Jiang family.¡±
Grandma Qin¡¯s irritation grew, ¡°Enough with the nonsense. Get to the point.¡±
Jiang Cha then revealed the crucial information, ¡°The Empress Dowager suffers from a severe and unusual headache that has gued her for a decade. Neither the imperial physicians nor the Jiang family elders have been able to alleviate her pain.¡±
¡°So, Zhenzhen, there¡¯s a 90% chance that you won¡¯t be able to treat the Empress Dowager sessfully. Moreover, the Empress Dowager¡¯s irritability has grown during this period, and she has been known to harm those around her.¡±
¡°She even went as far as killing two imperial physicians, let alone thosemoner doctors summoned to the pce. If they fail to cure her, they¡¯ll face a brutal beating.¡±
¡°Nevertheless, the Empress Dowager will grant some leniency to the Jiang family. Even if the treatment yields poor results, immediate execution is not on the table.¡±
¡°This is because only our Jiang family possesses the means to alleviate the Empress Dowager¡¯s symptoms. For the time being, she doesn¡¯t wish to provoke any conflicts with us.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin grasped Jiang Cha¡¯s underlying message.
He was subtly reminding them that if they didn¡¯t acknowledge their affiliation with the Jiang family, they would be treated like ordinary physicians. In the event they upset the Empress Dowager during treatment, she might resort to a lethal punishment.
However, if they openly acknowledged their connection to the Jiang family, they could evade such dire consequences.
In truth, Jiang Cha¡¯s objective was to persuade Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin to acknowledge their Jiang family identity.
Observing theirprehension, Jiang Cha continued, ¡°Don¡¯t assume that the
Empress Dowager will show restraint just because Zhenzhen is now the
Marquis Mansion¡¯s granddaughter-inw.¡±
¡°Presently, the Marquis Mansion is not what it once was. In the past, the Marquis held a position on par with the kingdom¡¯s nobility. Today, the Marquis is even inferior to a third-tier city official.¡±
¡°If it weren¡¯t for their ancestors¡¯ significant contributions, the title may not have been hereditary at all.¡±
¡°Furthermore, Su Bin and the others have yet to formally return to the Marquis Mansion. Therefore, Zhenzhen isn¡¯t truly recognized as the Marquis Mansion¡¯s granddaughter-inw.¡±
With those words, Jiang Cha cast an eager gaze toward Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin.
Remainingposed, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Are you implying that you wish to convince us to rejoin the Jiang family? Is this your personal initiative, or is it on behalf of someone else?¡±
Jiang Cha responded, ¡°This is the family head¡¯s directive. Our family head highly esteems talent and values it above all else. He genuinely wants to ensure your well-being. ¡±
¡°Furthermore, the Master has affirmed that upon your return to the Jiang family, you will enjoyplete freedom, just as you did before..¡±
Chapter 269 - 269: Caned
Chapter 269: Caned
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°The Jiang family assures you that they will notpel you to surrender the form, nor will they demand a share of your business profits.¡±
¡°I can personally vouch for this, as the family head conveyed these words in front of a substantial audience prior to my departure. Thus, you needn¡¯t fret about any potential reneging on the family¡¯s part.¡±
¡°Third Aunt, I implore you to contemte this matter with care. One cannot dwell in the past indefinitely, nor cling to it incessantly.¡±
¡°Returning to the Jiang family offers numerous advantages. Foremost, you would acquire ownership of a spacious residence situated in the most prestigious part of the capital, amply amodating your entire family.¡±
¡°Moreover, the status of your descendants would undergo a transformation. They would ascend to the ranks of affluent young masters and youngdies in the city, enjoying opulence and prestige.¡±
These were the terms presented by the Jiang family to Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin.
Nevertheless, Qin Zhenzhen had already conferred with her grandmother and made a steadfast decision not to return.
Much like how Su Bin had resolved not to return to the Marquis Mansion.
Jiang Cha had assumed that the Jiang family¡¯s offers were quite enticing. Even if Qin Zhenzhen and the others didn¡¯t provide an immediate response, he believed they would at least contemte the proposition.
However, he had not anticipated Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s immediate rejection.
¡°Please convey to your patriarch that when my grandmother left the Jiang family, she solemnly pledged to sever all ties with them. Our grandmother has even changed her surname, making any return to the Jiang family impossible!¡± ¡°Our family respects our grandmother¡¯s choice, and we will not acknowledge any connection to the Jiang family.¡±
¡°As for our fate after entering the pce, you need not concern yourself!¡±
Jiang Cha had no alternative but to step back and say, ¡°You can make your decision at ater time.¡±
He then offered a final, considerate reminder:
¡°Considering your current positions, it may not be suitable for you to remain in the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°That spacious residence in the capital has already been registered under Third Aunt¡¯s name. You can reside there. I¡¯ll escort you there once we arrive in the capital.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen waved her hand dismissively. ¡°We already have a home. You need not worry about us staying here.¡±
Mr. Chen had proven to be highly capable. Two months earlier, he had assisted Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin in purchasing a substantial property in the capital. Even the household staff had been hired and were eagerly awaiting their new master¡¯s arrival.
Jiang Cha had expended considerable effort in attempting to persuade them, but it had all been in vain.
Internally, he harbored a sense of derision. They had declined a gracious offer, and now they would face the consequences!
However, he maintained aposed exterior, saying, ¡°Very well, I will convey your decision to the family head. I also hope that you will reconsider this matter earnestly.¡±
After Jiang Cha departed, Su Bin summoned Qin Zhenzhen from the room.
¡°Did you hear what I said just now?¡±
Judging by Su Bin¡¯s expression, Qin Zhenzhen had already surmised something.
Su Bin nodded. ¡°I heard it.¡±
¡°I want to ask you, how confident are you in treating the Empress Dowager¡¯s headache?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°That depends on the specific condition of the patient. I can¡¯t gauge my confidence urately at this point.¡±
She couldn¡¯t resist teasing Su Bin. ¡°But if the Empress Dowager¡¯s headache proves to be particrly stubborn, and my confidence wavers, what should I
¡°Ah, please don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re waiting to be punished severely?¡±
Su Bin gazed at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s anxious expression and hesitated for a moment. He couldn¡¯t resist offering reassurance.
¡°You¡¯ve already sessfully restored your grandmother¡¯s eyesight. Dealing with a mere headache should be a breeze for you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°I¡¯m just considering all possibilities.¡±
After pondering for a moment, Su Bin suggested, ¡°What if I go to the Marquis Mansion to acknowledge my family? If you were recognized as the heir¡¯s wife, it might change the situation.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen promptly objected, ¡°Absolutely not! We¡¯ve made our decision not to return to the Jiang family. We can¡¯t allow you to go back to the Marquis Mansion..¡±
Chapter 270 - 270: Arriving in Beijing
Chapter 270: Arriving in Beijing
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Su Bin¡¯s gaze met Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s.
¡°It¡¯s not as dire as it seems. Our circumstances differ significantly. Returning to the Jiang family would mean surrendering your autonomy and bing a pawn for their schemes.¡±
At first nce, it might sound like Su Bin was downying the situation, but the turmoil within him was palpable.
Someone interjected, ¡°You should reconsider your actions carefully! This isn¡¯t just about disrespecting your father; it¡¯s about how you¡¯ll be perceived in the future.¡¯
Another voice chimed in, ¡°Indeed, acknowledging kinship with the Marquis Mansion isn¡¯t that big of apromise. You can¡¯t eat face and dignity. If something terrible happens to Qin Zhenzhen, you¡¯ll carry that burden for the rest of your life.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen still shook her head resolutely. ¡°No!¡±
Su Bin¡¯s irritation began to surface. ¡°Weren¡¯t we in this together? If something happens to you, what if it implicates us?¡±
¡°In the pce, one wrong move can lead to your entire family¡¯s execution!¡±
When Qin Zhenzhen saw the earnest concern in Su Bin¡¯s eyes, she struggled to suppress a chuckle. ¡°Don¡¯t worry; I believe I can alleviate the Empress Dowager¡¯s headaches.¡±
Su Bin seemed to breathe a sigh of relief but then frowned. ¡°So, was your suggestion just to assess my cleverness?¡±
Only then did Qin Zhenzhen reveal her true intentions. ¡°I just wanted to see if you had any brilliant ideas.¡±
Su Bin realized that he was willing to set aside his pride and acknowledge his family for her. Had she already be so important to him?
As the realization dawned upon him, Su Bin understood that he had been yfully teased by Qin Zhenzhen. He nced at her and turned to leave.
In a reflex, Qin Zhenzhen tugged at his sleeve. ¡°Are you upset?¡±
Su Bin turned around and fixed his gaze on her. ¡°I¡¯m upset. Are you nning to appease me?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen clicked her tongue and released her grip. ¡°How old are you? Do you still need me to pacify you?¡±
Su Bin replied, ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯m a married man. I¡¯m not exactly young anymore. I don¡¯t require pacifying.¡±
With those words, he began to walk away.
Qin Zhenzhen feltpelled to stop him. ¡°I apologize. Is that sufficient?¡±
Su Bin wasn¡¯t inclined to ept her apology. He simply gazed at her in silence.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but mutter, ¡°Are you really this sensitive?¡±
To her surprise, Su Bin nodded. ¡°You¡¯re just realizing now that I can be sensitive?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was left speechless.
Su Bin¡¯s tone turned chilly. ¡°I wonder who¡¯s more sensitive.¡±
Their agreement was built onplete transparency, and while he hadrgely upheld his end of it, he knew she hadn¡¯t.
On the third day, he opted not to stay in a hotel in order to continue their journey.
They boarded a carriage bound for the capital. The sky remained shrouded in darkness, and the city gate had not yet opened when they arrived.
The guards apanying them went ahead to negotiate with the soldiers guarding the gate, and the jolting carriage eventually came to a steady halt.
The carriage didn¡¯t offer much in the way offort,cking a proper bed. Grandma Qin, who hadn¡¯t slept all night, appeared visibly fatigued. Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart went out to her. ¡°Grandma, you must be exhausted.¡±
She then poured a ss of water and discreetly added some spirit water. Handing it to her grandmother, she said, ¡°Grandma, have some water to regain your strength.¡±
Aware that this ss of water had been enhanced, Grandma Qin eagerly consumed it in a single gulp.
Su Bin, seated across from them, stole a nce at Qin Zhenzhen and lowered his head, choosing to remain silent.
Throughout the day, he didn¡¯t talk much.
Grandma Qin, unaware of the reason behind his silence, assumed Su Bin was simply tired from the long carriage ride, just like she was.
After drinking the water, Grandma Qin regained her vigor and couldn¡¯t help but tug on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sleeve, silently hinting for her to prepare another ss of water infused with special ingredients for Su Bin.
Qin Zhenzhen was determined not to prolong the awkwardness with Su Bin.
She took his cup, filled it with water, and discreetly added spirit water once more..
Chapter 271 - 271: Qin Zhenzhen, You Must Be Fine
Chapter 271: Qin Zhenzhen, You Must Be Fine
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Su Bin took the ss of water from Qin Zhenzhen and downed it in a single gulp.
He harbored no real resentment towards Qin Zhenzhen.
Understanding that everyone had their own concealed secrets, he had no intention of withholding anything from her at this moment; he desired an open, honest connection with her.
Upon savoring the water, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but notice its exceptional sweetness and revitalizing quality.
He chuckled to himself. Could this be a sign that he was falling in love with Qin Zhenzhen?
It seemed preposterous that a simple ss of water could evoke such feelings, but it felt akin to drinking nectar because it was her hand that had poured it.
Despite being aware of her hidden secrets, Su Bin chose not to be angered by them. In fact, he consciously forgave her.
This very sentiment led him to proactively propose acknowledging the Marquis Mansion when he learned that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s entrance into the pce might be perilous. He was willing to set aside his own pride for her sake. Without question, he had fallen deeply in love with her.
If he wanted her affection, he had to fight for it, even if she had stopped loving him. He longed for her to regain those feelings.
With these thoughts in mind, Su Bin experienced a delightful sweetness that could only be associated with liking someone.
¡°This water is truly sweet, my dear,¡± Su Bin said with a knowing look directed at Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen shot him a re and muttered insults under her breath. What a petty man!
However, she replied with a smile, ¡°Is it sweet? Shall I pour you another ss, my husband?¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±
This time, Qin Zhenzhen did not add any spirit water.
After Su Bin drank it, he was a little puzzled. This waspletely different from the previous cup!
Could it be that he felt that it was especially delicious because he was thirsty just now?
The gates of the capital swung open, and the apanying guards approached with a message.
¡°Miss Qin and Granny Qin may proceed directly into the pce. The others need not follow.¡±
Qin Silong hurriedly approached Qin Zhenzhen, offering a reminder,
¡°Zhenzhen, you must exercise utmost caution inside.¡±
While he could safeguard his sister and grandmother outside the pce, navigating within its walls presented a different challenge.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded determinedly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Fourth Brother. I vow to ensure Grandma¡¯s safety within the pce.¡±
The awaiting carriage, emzoned with pce insignia, signaled that they were ready to enter. Su Bin had no choice but to disembark.
Anxiously, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but reiterate, ¡°Qin Zhenzhen, please take care.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen reassured him with a nod. ¡°I will.¡±
The carriage ventured into the pce, the skies brightening ever so slightly.
Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother were directed to a modest chamber for a brief respite.
Before they could settle in or rest, a nanny arrived and escorted them to the Empress Dowager¡¯s quarters to offer their apologies.
The nanny kindly cautioned Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°The Empress Dowager had a sleepless night and is currently in a foul mood.¡±
The root cause of her sleepless night, of course, was her persistent headache. The words were a subtle reminder for Qin Zhenzhen to be cautious with her words.
Qin Zhenzhen expressed her gratitude sincerely. ¡°Thank you, Nanny.¡±
The nanny, ever kind-hearted, leaned in and whispered, ¡°When you encounter the Empress Dowagerter, regardless of the circumstances, avoid contradicting her.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen acknowledged the advice with a nod. ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡±
Upon entering the Empress Dowager¡¯s bedchamber, a potent medicinal odor immediately assailed their senses, reminiscent of contemporary essential oils. It was apparent that the imperial physicians had used copious amounts of medicinal oils on the Empress Dowager the previous night.
Exposure to such a pervasive scent, even without a preexisting headache, could easily induce difort.
Inside the chamber, guards nked either side, while pce attendants bustled about in haste.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s gaze fell upon a man attired in imperial physician¡¯s robes, sprawled on the floor. His backside bore a grievous wound, a gruesome mass of blood and flesh. Yet, he endured in silence, suppressing any groans of pain.
It was evident that this imperial physician had incurred the Empress Dowager¡¯s wrath, facing severe punishment for his actions..
Chapter 272 - 272: Really Good at Acting
Chapter 272: Really Good at Acting
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
At the entrance to the Empress Dowager¡¯s chamber, Qin Zhenzhen observed six imperial physicians, their heads bowed in contemtion, their expressions inscrutable. Their trembling hands betrayed their inner anxiety, and it begged the question: who could possibly save them?
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s brow furrowed as she noted the Empress Dowager¡¯s unrelenting demeanor.
As Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma were escorted into the chamber by two elderly attendants, the six imperial physicians collectively exhaled a sigh of relief. The arrival of a scapegoat provided them with a momentary respite from their distress.
They had already heard rumors that Eunuch Chen had ventured outside the pce to fetch a woman to treat the Empress Dowager¡¯s persistent headache. This woman happened to be the granddaughter of the esteemed Jiang family, carrying the lineage¡¯s legacy.
Without the need for formal announcement, the two attendants ushered Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma into the room. The pervasive scent of medicinal oils hung in the air, intensifying within thevishly adorned chamber. Through the sheer curtains, a frail elderly figurey sprawled on an opulent bed, as slender as a matchstick.
¡°Leave!¡± A cup soared from the bed, striking a kneeling pce maid on the
forehead, causing blood to trickle down her face. Despite the pain, she remained motionless, refraining from covering her wound.
Qin Zhenzhen seethed with anger at the cruel spectacle before her. One of the attendants bowed and approached the bed. ¡°Empress Dowager, Qin Zhenzhen, the scion of the Jiang Family, has arrived.¡±
¡°Bring her to me,¡±manded the Empress Dowager.
The Empress Dowager had a splitting headache and could not wait for Qin Zhenzhen to kowtow to her.
But Qin Zhenzhen and grandma still knelt down.
¡°Greetings, Empress Dowager.¡± ¡°Greetings, Empress Dowager.¡±
¡°Come here!¡±
The nanny discreetly signaled Qin Zhenzhen with a meaningful nce, urging her to approach the bed. Simultaneously, the two attendants extended their assistance to the Empress Dowager, carefully helping her rise from hervish resting ce.
Despite the Empress Dowager¡¯s heavy makeup, it failed to conceal the ravages of time etched upon her visage. Enduring a decade of relentless migraines, her condition had deteriorated progressively. The torment of daily recurring headaches had rendered her restless and miserable. A decade of medical intervention had yielded no improvement, severely disrupting her daily existence. Sleep eluded her both day and night, rendering her indifferent to the most exquisite of meals.
However, rather than immediately addressing her own condition, the Empress Dowager turned her attention to Qin Zhenzhen and inquired, ¡°Your grandma has been blind for over four decades. I¡¯ve heard that you¡¯ve managed to cure
Qin Zhenzhen nodded earnestly. ¡°Yes.¡±
¡°Summon your grandma here; I wish to meet her,¡± the Empress Dowager instructed.
The nanny promptly beckoned Grandma Qin to approach. As Grandma Qin lowered her head in deference, the Empress Dowager scrutinized her closely andmanded, ¡°Raise your head.¡±
Confronted with Grandma Qin¡¯s presence, the Empress Dowager swiftly recognized her as the renowned third daughter of the Jiang family, Jiang
Fenglian. Her sightless eyes gleamed with a certain vitality in that moment.
What stoked the Empress Dowager¡¯s intense envy was the fact that Grandma Qin, despite being roughly her contemporary, exuded a youthfulness that belied her age. She retained the allure and grace of her prime, appearing nearly two decades younger than her true age.
The reason behind this phenomenon remained a source of intrigue.
¡°Do you still recognize me?¡±
Grandma Qin replied in a neither servile nor overbearing manner, ¡°I recognize you.¡±
How could she fail to recognize the malicious woman before her?
During the Empress Dowager¡¯s time as the crown prince consort, they had crossed paths on three asions.
Back then, the crown prince consort had been consumed by jealousy over
Grandma Qin¡¯s
striking beauty. She had harbored a fierce desire not to be a prince consort like her, even as a secondary consort.
Grandma Qin had been convinced that her elder sister had made her move with the support of the crown prince consort.
However, Grandma Qin understood all too well that she couldn¡¯t reveal any trace of animosity in her demeanor at this moment.
The Empress Dowager sneered inwardly. This woman certainly knew how to y her role!
¡°How did you manage to restore your eyes?¡±
Chapter 273 - 273: Trying
Chapter 273: Trying
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Grandma Qin responded with a poised demeanor, neither subservient nor arrogant. ¡°It was my granddaughter who devised a set of massage techniques, blending them with a special potion she created herself. It took several years, but I finally regained my sight.¡¯
She waspelled to fabricate this story, knowing that the longer she spoke, the less likely people would suspect Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s secret abilities.
Empress Dowager emitted a disdainful snort, ¡°You¡¯ve been quite fortunate!¡±
Having endured blindness for many years, she marveled at her newfound sight.
How could she maintain such a gracious disposition after marrying a rugged farmer from the countryside? Compared to women of their noble status, she was leading a considerably morefortable life.
What baffled her even more was the presence of such a talented granddaughter with extraordinary medical skills.
Grandma Qin nodded, ¡°Empress Dowager, you are absolutely right. I no longer desire anything from those days of darkness. All I wish for now is to enjoy my meals, sleep peacefully, and not trouble my family.¡±
¡°Now, my only wish remains the same as before: I hope the heavens will show me mercy and bless me with a gifted granddaughter, so I may once again bask in the light.¡¯
With just one sentence, Grandma Qin¡¯s response cut to the core of her emotions.
Empress Dowager seethed with anger, a sudden splitting headache overtaking her. Instinctively, she clutched her head as the excruciating pain resurfaced.
The agony was unbearable, and she had never intended to use Grandma Qin of falsehood. At this moment, her utmost concern was whether Qin Zhenzhen could relieve her of this torment.
The head nanny swiftly urged Grandma Qin to depart.
Despite Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sessful restoration of Grandma Qin¡¯s sight, Empress Dowager couldn¡¯t fully ce her trust in her abilities. When requesting treatment from Qin Zhenzhen, she even summoned two imperial physicians to oversee the process.
Qin Zhenzhen remained indifferent to the Empress Dowager¡¯s pain, resolute in her decision not to use spirit water for immediate relief.
Her resolve to seek vengeance for her grandmother burned deep within her, and she knew it woulde to fruition sooner orter.
Deliberately, Qin Zhenzhen assessed the Empress Dowager¡¯s condition by taking her pulse methodically. Based on the observed symptoms, she diagnosed a headache stemming from liver congestion.
¡°The head serves as the nexus for sensitivity, where the vital essence and blood from the five viscera, as well as the energies of the six viscera, converge.¡±
¡°External assaults and internal emotional turmoil, seven distinct types of injuries, all have the potential to trigger headaches.¡±
¡°A troubled heart can manifest as a headache, and a protracted illness can give rise to headwinds.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s logical exnation left the imperial physicians thoroughly astounded.
Having pinpointed the root of the ailment, Qin Zhenzhen resolved to administer acupuncture treatment to the Empress Dowager, with the aim of clearing liver congestion and restoring normal channel flow. Her immediate objective was to alleviate the debilitating headache.
Her strategy prioritized alleviating the headache first, with other matters to be addressedter.
Upon learning of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s intention to perform acupuncture, the
Empress Dowager¡¯s countenance darkened. ¡°Are youpletely confident?¡± What she detested most were the imperial physicians practicing acupuncture on her.
Historically, those who had dared to insert needles into her head, risking their lives in the process, not only failed to alleviate her headaches but often exacerbated them.
The nannies were taken aback. They had never expected Qin Zhenzhen to suggest acupuncture.
Over the years, any doctor who had attempted acupuncture on the Empress Dowager, only to yield no positive results, had either met their demise through a severe beating or had been incapacitated for months on end.
It appeared that Miss Qin had an unfortunate task ahead of her¡
The nanny who had ushered Qin Zhenzhen in now regretted not issuing a cautionary reminder.
The two imperial physicians, too, felt a growing unease for Qin Zhenzhen.
Their apprehension stemmed from the fear of being drawn into any potentialplications arising from her treatment.
In response to their concerns, Qin Zhenzhen affirmed, ¡°I possess great confidence in my ability to alleviate your headache through acupuncture. However, I must emphasize that it won¡¯t be a one-time cure. It will require at least four sessions.
Her assertiveness was a rare sight in front of the Empress Dowager, and a
glimmer of hope flickered in the Empress Dowager¡¯s eyes.
Yet, as the relentless agony of her headache persisted, her trust in physicians waned further.
With a cautious nce at Qin Zhenzhen, she relented, saying, ¡°I will allow you to try..¡±
Chapter 274 - 274: Acupuncture
Chapter 274 - 274: Acupuncture
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Qin Zhenzhen readied her silver needles, poised to begin the acupuncture procedure on the Empress Dowager. The tension in the room was palpable; everyone held their breath.
Especially the two imperial physicians, who were silently hoping they could prevent Qin Zhenzhen from proceeding, fearing potential repercussions down the line.
Yet, the Empress Dowager had just given her consent for Qin Zhenzhen to attempt the treatment.
Prior tomencing the acupuncture, Qin Zhenzhen produced another pill and offered it to the Empress Dowager. ¡°Please take this painkiller pill to alleviate any difort during the acupuncture.¡±
¡°Empress Dowager, would you like to take it?¡±
Despite having granted permission for the treatment, the Empress Dowager, who cherished her life dearly, couldn¡¯t shake off her unease. She worried that Qin Zhenzhen might tamper with the pill, possibly adding some slow-acting poison as an act of vengeance against her grandmother.
The overseeing nannyprehended the unspoken concerns. A single ncemunicated the need for action. Without hesitation, two imperial physicians stepped forward. One of them gently intervened, saying, ¡°Empress Dowager possesses a divine constitution. She mustn¡¯t take medication casually.¡±
Another person added, ¡°For the sake of safety, Empress Dowager, let me examine the pill¡¯sposition.¡±
The Empress Dowager, ying along, pretended to relent, saying, ¡°It¡¯s a rare disy of loyalty from all of you. Very well, you have my permission.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen observed their theatrics with an amused eye, recognizing the irony of the situation. It was as if they embodied the age-old adage: ¡°Those who engage in wicked deeds are perpetually haunted by the fear of retribution.¡±
The two imperial physicians employed sterile instruments to break open the pill and scrutinize its contents. Once they ascertained the pill was harmless, they presented it respectfully to the Empress Dowager.
¡°Empress Dowager, the ingredients in this pill indeed possess pain-relieving properties.¡±
This gesture was their way of confirming that the pill was devoid of any poison.
The Empress Dowager was already gued by an excruciating headache, so she followed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s guidance. She dissolved the pill in water and consumed it.
After a while, the Empress Dowager began to feel her headache gradually subsiding. The speed at which this pill worked was truly remarkable, affirming Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s well-deserved reputation.
Yet, it left the Empress Dowager puzzled¡ªwhy did the painkillers crafted by the Imperial Physician Court¡¯s experts fail to match even a fraction of this efficacy?
Unable to contain her curiosity, the Empress Dowager inquired of Qin
Zhenzhen, ¡°Did you concoct this painkiller yourself?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in confirmation. ¡°Indeed, I did. However, it¡¯s quite aborious process. Two of the essential herbs required are exceptionally rare.¡±
¡°Moreover, the relief it provides is rather fleeting. We must proceed with the acupuncture promptly.¡±
The Empress Dowager temporarily withheld her further queries.
Under the vignt gaze of the two imperial physicians, Qin Zhenzhen calmly inserted silver needles into specific acupuncture points on the Empress Dowager¡¯s body.
The acupuncture sessionsted no longer than the time it took for an incense stick to burn down. By its conclusion, the Empress Dowager had drifted into a deep slumber, her peaceful countenance speaking volumes.
The two imperial physicians breathed a collective sigh of relief.
This seemingly inexperienced young woman had more than lived up to her reputation.
It was truly astounding. She had seamlesslybined their familiar acupuncture techniques with her mastery of acupoint medical massage, rendering the Empress Dowager into a tranquil sleep.
Could it be the lingering effect of the earlier painkiller pill?
Nheless, they had previously verified that the painkiller was made from entirelymonce medicinal herbs.
If, however, Miss Qin genuinely alleviated the Empress Dowager¡¯s headache, it would earn her the heartfelt gratitude of all the imperial physicians in the Imperial Physician Court.
This would mean an end to their relentless anxiety, the fear of being summoned incessantly to attend to the Empress Dowager¡¯s ailments, and the inevitable scolding and punishment that would follow.
The overseeing nanny also breathed a sigh of relief and swiftly signaled for everyone to depart silently, allowing the Empress Dowager to continue her slumber undisturbed.
Outside the chamber, the imperial physicians stationed there encircled the two who had emerged and eagerly awaited their ount of the events transpiring inside..
Chapter 275 - 275: Mr. Chen
Chapter 275 - 275: Mr. Chen
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother, both led by the housekeeper, were escorted to a beautifully appointed room.
They were strictly instructed not to leave the Empress Dowager¡¯s chambers until she woke up.
With a gracious smile, Qin Zhenzhen expressed her gratitude to the housekeeper, saying, ¡°Thank you, Madam.¡±
She had sensed that the housekeeper, whom she respectfully referred to as ¡°nanny,¡± was clearly on their side.
Taking the initiative to introduce herself, the nanny said, ¡°You can call me Mrs. Lin.¡±
This revtion caught Qin Zhenzhen by surprise. As the nanny responsible for the Empress Dowager¡¯s care, Mrs. Lin held a high position in the pce. Yet, here she was, referring to herself as an ¡°old servant¡± in front of them.
Mrs. Lin quickly rified, ¡°Madam Su, there¡¯s no need for astonishment.
Although I serve the Empress Dowager, I also answer to Young Master Su.¡± ¡°Young Master Su? Are you referring to Su Bin?¡± Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s surprise deepened.
Since when had Su Bin¡¯s influence extended so far?
Could he really have managed to gain the loyalty of individuals within the Empress Dowager¡¯s inner circle?
With a nod, Mrs. Lin replied softly, ¡°Yes, Madam Su, but we should refrain from discussing this here.¡±
¡°Mrs. Su, Old Lady Qin, you can rest assured here.¡±
The room featured afortable bed and a well-prepared meal on the table, ensuring they had everything they needed.
As the housekeeper departed, Qin Zhenzhen overheard her instructing the pce maids, ¡°Take good care of Mrs. Su and Old Lady Qin. The Empress Dowager will surely reward you when she awakens.¡±
The pce maids readily responded with repeated assurances of ¡°Yes.¡±
In fact, there was no need for constant reminders, as their dedication to serving Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother was evident.
The improvement of their condition was not only in the best interest of the two women but also held potential benefits for the pce maids themselves.
The prospect of the Empress Dowager being free from her persistent headaches relieved them of constant worry. Whenever her headaches red up, anyone in her presence would bear the brunt of her suffering. Failing to be attentive could lead to dire consequences.
At noon, Mr. Chen rode in a carriage to a residence located within the capital.
This house had been acquired in Su Bin¡¯s name, right down to the loyal staff who served within its walls.
While not overly opulent, the house exuded a distinct charm. Enclosed by walls, it boasted three entrances and exits, along with three courtyards, offering ample room to amodate his siblingsfortably.
The residence maintained impable cleanliness, all funded by the Old Marquis¡¯s resources.
In addition to handling business affairs for Qin Zhenzhen, Su Bin had also tapped into a substantial portion of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s finances.
He understood deeply that to contend with the influential families of the capital, he needed not only a powerful ally but also substantial wealth and influence.
On the surface, Mr. Chen appeared to assist Qin Zhenzhen with her business matters, but in truth, he operated under Su Bin¡¯s direction.
Strictly speaking, Mr. Chen was Su Bin¡¯s trusted confidant.
Su Bin felt fortunate to have crossed paths with Mr. Chen, and he cherished the fact that Mr. Chen had officially acknowledged him as his mentor.
Mr. Chen¡¯s lineage traced back to generations of advisors, with his family amassing a vastwork of connections and sources over the years.
Within the pce, the households of princes and marquises, and even among the families of high-ranking capital officials, a web of informants discreetly operated.
Over time, those who thrived on selling information had amassed significant wealth.
However, Mr. Chen¡¯s father had encountered a precarious situation when he inadvertently offended a king. The king dispatched investigators to scrutinize their background, nearly severing all their connections.
Fortunately, the Old Marquis intervened and shielded Mr. Chen¡¯s father. Nheless, their family had to relinquish a substantial portion of the wealth they had painstakingly umted over the years.
For the past two decades, Mr. Chen¡¯s father had served as a butler within the Marquis Mansion. Nevertheless, he diligently continued to nurture theirwork of connections.
It was their lifeline to eventually regain their standing, as thework that had been disrupted in the past gradually reestablished its roots over the years..
Chapter 276 - 276: Safe
Chapter 276: Safe
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The devoted supporters of the Chen family were eager to express their readiness to reunite with their former leader. Their decision was rooted in the knowledge that their former boss had selflessly expended his hard-earned wealth to protect their lives. These individuals were far from heartless.
Tragically, Mr. Chen¡¯s father passed away, still carrying unresolved grievances, before he could make aeback. Mr. Chen then assumed the mantle of responsibility in his father¡¯s absence.
Despite Mr. Chen¡¯spetence, he encountered a significant obstacle due to a shortage of both capital and courage. He approached life cautiously and with restraint.
However, when Mr. Chen crossed paths with Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin, he saw a new opportunity to revitalize hiswork by leveraging their strength. Coincidentally, Su Bin had sought his assistance in assembling a group for training.
Recognizing that Su Bin was no ordinary schr, Mr. Chen revealed his family¡¯s background and formed an alliance with him. In exchange for assisting his father in seeking vengeance, the Chen family¡¯swork would be at Su Bin¡¯s disposal, with Mr. Chen pledging his loyalty to him as his master.
Su Bin promptly epted the offer and proved his capabilities. In just three months, he not only doubled the Chen family¡¯s existingwork but also revolutionized Mr. Chen¡¯s business model, liberating it from financial constraints.
Previously, their intelligencework had merely sustained operations, but now it was generating substantial revenue. Mr. Chen held deep admiration for Su Bin, who had chosen to keep these aplishments hidden from everyone except Qin Zhenzhen, for the time being.
This secrecy wasn¡¯t intended to deceive her but rather to reveal the truth only after achieving sess. Su Bin had previously visited the capital with his younger brother, ostensibly to scout for houses but actually to gather crucial information from the Chen family.
Subsequently, Su Bin relied solely on Mr. Chen¡¯s ryed instructions to oversee all decisions remotely. Qin Zhenzhen, immersed in her business, remained unaware of Su Bin¡¯s covert activities.
On this particr morning, Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother gained direct ess to the pce, while Su Bin and the others returned to their residence. Prior to this, Su Bin had spread the news of Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother¡¯s pce visit and had also assigned Mr. Chen the task of uncovering the history of Grandma Qin¡¯s encounters within the pce.
Aware of the Empress Dowager¡¯s longstanding grudge against Grandma Qin, Su Bin had deep concerns for the safety of Qin Zhenzhen and her party within the pce. Consequently, he had entrusted Mr. Chen with the task of devising a n to ensure the well-being of Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother.
In response, Mr. Chen provided reassurance to Su Bin by revealing that they had an informant among the staff attending to the Empress Dowager. This insider presence guaranteed the safety of Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin, ensuring they would not be subjected to any harm.
The nanny who had apanied Qin Zhenzhen and her entourage to the Empress Dowager¡¯s chambers had been discreetly instructed by the household manager. This exined her vignt reminder to Qin Zhenzhen at the outset.
While Su Bin anxiously awaited news in his study, Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother spent the entire morning within the pce, yet there was no update on their safety. Despite Su Bin¡¯s confidence in Mr. Chen¡¯s arrangements, an unshakable sense of worry persisted for some inexplicable reason.
When Mr. Chen entered the room, Su Bin promptly rose from his seat and asked, ¡°How are they?¡±
¡°They arepletely safe,¡± Mr. Chen replied.
¡°Miss Qin has already administered acupuncture to the Empress Dowager once.
She has peacefully drifted off to sleep and has yet to awaken.¡±
¡°Miss Qin and Old Lady Qin have been amodated in the same room.¡±
¡°We will learn more when the Empress Dowager wakes up.¡±
¡°The nanny assured us that any danger has passed. It¡¯s inconceivable for the Empress Dowager to harm someone who can grant her such peaceful slumber.¡±
¡°She hasn¡¯t experienced such a deep and undisturbed sleep in an exceedingly long time..¡±
Chapter 277 - 277: Grandma Qin’s Past
Chapter 277: Grandma Qin¡¯s Past
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After Mr. Chen¡¯s reassuring words, Su Bin felt a wave of relief wash over him.
He personally prepared a cup of tea for Mr. Chen, expressing his gratitude, ¡°Thank you for going through all this trouble, Mr. Chen. I can¡¯t express my gratitude enough.¡±
Beside the Empress Dowager, the nanny who had originally been under Mr. Chen¡¯s father had already agreed to release Su Bin from their intelligencework. She was no longer considered part of their group.
It had been Mr. Chen who had persistently persuaded her to participate in this mission.
Mr. Chen spoke earnestly, ¡°Young Master, please don¡¯t say that. I¡¯m more than willing to go to great lengths for you.¡±
With a happy demeanor, he shared some news with Su Bin.
¡°Initially, the housekeeper had only agreed to ensure the safety of Miss Qin Zhenzhen and the others. However, after interacting with Miss Qin, she voluntarily expressed her desire to rejoin us.¡±
¡°Miss Qin¡¯s allure is truly remarkable.¡±
Thetest information obtained from the Empress Dowager was undoubtedly valuable and could fetch a high price.
Su Bin was equally amazed, ¡°Indeed, she¡¯s exceptional.¡±
Without dy, Su Bin posed another question, ¡°Have you discovered any other motives behind the Empress Dowager¡¯s resentment towards Grandma Qin?¡± Mr. Chen replied, ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve uncovered some intricate details.¡±
Originally, Grandma Qin¡¯s birth name was Jiang Fenglian. She was the third daughter of the Jiang family¡¯s patriarch.
She possessed exquisite beauty and, with her own diligent efforts, had be extraordinarily skilled in both culinary and medical arts, surpassing her peers.
Had she been a man, the Jiang family would undoubtedly have nurtured her with great care.
It was a woman, and the Jiang family held her in high regard.
Initially, they intended to send her to the imperial pce to be pampered. However, due to the elderly and feeble state of the reigning emperor at that time, hecked the vitality to expand his harem.
As an alternative n, the Jiang family strategized to send her to the residence of the crown prince. With her exceptional beauty and talents, it was believed that she could easily secure a position as a concubine when the crown prince eventually ascended the throne.
This move would potentially yield advantages for the Jiang family.
The family first approached the Crown Prince to gauge his opinion, and he did not object.
At that time, Grandma Qin had already gained widespread fame for her exceptional beauty, and her renown extended throughout the capital.
The Crown Prince was no exception; he had heard of her.
Had it not been for her status as the daughter of a concubine, she might have married into a wealthy family.
Unfortunately, fate did not ordain her as the first wife, and the Jiang family was opposed to her marrying into a household that offered no benefits to their own.
Her destinyy in the pce.
The Jiang family had ns to select an auspicious day to send Jiang Fenglian to the Crown Prince¡¯s Residence as a potential bride.
However, the eldest daughter of n Head Jiang was on friendly terms with the crown prince¡¯s consort at the time and discreetly informed her of this n.
The newlywed crown prince¡¯s consort, who had recently entered the Crown Prince¡¯s Residence, had no intention of allowing a stunning beauty to enter and potentiallypete for the crown prince¡¯s affection.
However, she dared not openly oppose the idea in front of the Crown Prince.
Instead, she devised a n and confided in her great-aunt. Earlier, the Empress Dowager had suggested that if the ailing Seventh Prince were to have a concubine with knowledge of medicine who could care for him day and night, his health might significantly improve.
The Empress Dowager, misunderstanding the situation, took the Crown Princess Consort¡¯s words to heart. Seizing the opportunity, the Crown Princess Consort rmended Jiang Fenglian.
On that fateful day, the Empress Dowager issued an imperial decree, instructing the Jiang Family to select a suitable date for Jiang Fenglian to enter the Seventh Prince¡¯s residence.
To everyone¡¯s surprise, the Seventh Prince had secretly harbored affection for Jiang Fenglian for quite some time. Upon hearing of his grandmother¡¯s imperial decree, he seized the moment to express his desire to formally wed Jiang Fenglian as his wife.
However, due to Jiang Fenglian¡¯s status as a concubine¡¯s daughter, she was ineligible to be a princess consort.
In response, the emperor penned an imperial edict, designating the eldest daughter of the Jiang family as the primary consort to marry the Seventh Prince, with Jiang Fenglian serving as the secondary consort. This arrangement would ensure that two women with medical knowledge would care for the Seventh Prince simultaneously.
The eldest daughter of the Jiang family initially harbored reservations, but eventually, both sisters wed the Seventh Prince at the same time..
Chapter 278 - 278: Su Bin Can’t Understand
Chapter 278: Su Bin Can¡¯t Understand
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The eldest daughter of the Jiang family was actually unwilling that the two sisters married the Seventh Prince at the same time.
She knew very well that although she was the main wife, the Seventh Prince admired the beautiful Jiang Fenglian first. She did not have the confidence to fight for favor.
She could predict that her life as the first wife would be very miserable.
Thus, she told the crown prince consort about her troubles.
The crown prince consort viciously plotted for her to send someone to abduct Jiang Fenglian and got her raped.
This way, it would be impossible for the Seventh Prince to marry her as his secondary consort.
The reason why the crown prince consort was so vicious was because His Highness the Crown Prince knew that the crown prince consort was behind the empress dowager¡¯s sudden imperial decree.
Although the Crown Prince did not expose her in person, it was obvious that he was neglecting her and even speaking coldly to her.
The crown prince consort attributed all the bad treatment she received to Jiang Fenglian.
The eldest daughter of the Jiang family was not a kind person to begin with. When she received the promise that the crown prince consort would support her behind her back, she secretly kidnapped Jiang Fenglian behind the Jiang family¡¯s master¡¯s back.
Not only was she raped. She was blinded.
As a result, Jiang Fenglian¡¯s prospects of bing the Seventh Prince¡¯s secondary consort and gaining entry into the Crown Prince¡¯s residence were utterly dashed.
Faced with an irreversible situation, the head of the Jiang family had no choice but to shield his eldest daughter from the consequences of her actions.
To foster reconciliation, the Jiang family sought out a rural family andpensated Jiang Fenglian with a substantial dowry. This decision was also influenced by the fact that Jiang Fenglian was the biological daughter of the Jiang Family Head, making it inconceivable for him to contemte silencing her through more drastic means.
Following her marriage to the countryside, Jiang Fenglian initially found herself adrift, but fortune smiled upon her when she encountered a good man. Over time, she gradually left behind the shadows of her past misfortunes and forged a new path in life.
Upon hearing this narrative, Su Bin nodded in understanding.
With this revtion, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but wonder about theplex rtionship between Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin in light of their shared history of enmity with the Empress Dowager.
Intrigued, she pondered how Grandma Qin, with her astute intellect, must have been aware of the harm inflicted upon her by the Empress Dowager and her eldest sister. Yet, Grandma Qin had chosen to endure in silence, perhaps out of a sense of powerlessness and a desire to protect herself and her descendants.
Over the years, she had hidden her culinary and medical skills, never revealing them to anyone, not even her own partner. Consequently, those around her remained oblivious to her past and her remarkable talents.
It was only when Qin Zhenzhen unveiled her acquired skills that suspicions began to brew within Grandma Qin¡¯s family, furtherplicating an already intricate web of rtionships.
These revtions also held significance for the Jiang family, giving rise to a multitude of questions and mysteries that left Su Bin perplexed.
As Su Bin pondered Grandma Qin¡¯s decision to suddenly impart her long-concealed abilities to Qin Zhenzhen, she found herself unable to unravel the underlying motive behind this unexpected act.
If Qin Zhenzhen possessed intelligence and talent, it was entirely reasonable for Grandma Qin to desire to preserve such valuable lineage. However, given the grave nature of this matter, one would expect Grandma Qin to have forewarned Qin Zhenzhen about the potential dangers.
After all, the repercussions were so severe that discovery by the Empress Dowager and the Seventh Imperial Concubine would almost certainly lead to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s demise. It wasn¡¯t as though Qin Zhenzhen had inadvertently exposed her abilities before being adequately prepared.
Subsequently, Mr. Chen proceeded to elucidate the intricate history of the Jiang family to Su Bin. While Su Bin had already received some insights from Qin Zhenzhen, Mr. Chen¡¯s detailed ount left her with even more questions and uncertainties.
As she pieced together the sequence of events, Su Bin ultimately concluded that when Qin Zhenzhen initially unveiled her abilities, Grandma Qin did not intervene. The reason for this non-interference was likely rooted in the belief that the revtion would not provoke any undue rm within the Jiang family..
Chapter 279 - 279: Just Say It
Chapter 279: Just Say It
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin vividly recalled that Qin Zhenzhen never brought up the topic of divorce again after their encounter with the mysterious men in ck within the forest.
Instead, she proposed a peculiar arrangement: they would feign a loving rtionship when in thepany of outsiders to deter the Jiang family from capturing her.
It was during this time that Qin Zhenzhen herself came to the realization that she had made a colossal mistake. This turn of events appeared entirely illogical.
Su Bin could not fathom how capable Qin Zhenzhen had be. To be honest, even Grandma Qin had initially been oblivious to her newfound abilities, never suspecting that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s talents would raise the rm within the Jiang family.
Furthermore, Qin Zhenzhen had miraculously cured Grandma Qin¡¯s eyes over the past three months. This implied that her transformation urred after their marriage. If this were indeed the case, it was a perplexing development.
Suppressing his skepticism, Su Bin concealed it behind aposed expression.
¡°Mr. Chen, should Zhenzhen seed in alleviating the Empress Dowager¡¯s headache, could this pose any future risks?¡± Su Bin inquired.
Mr. Chen responded, ¡°I was just about to borate on this matter.¡±
¡°Based on the information we¡¯ve gathered, the reason the pce allowed Miss Qin¡¯s entry to treat the Empress Dowager was due to the Seventh Imperial Concubine¡¯s visit to her. The Seventh Imperial Concubine mentioned Miss Qin and Grandma Qin in her conversation with the Empress Dowager.¡±
¡°The Seventh Imperial Concubine¡¯s objective is to exploit this pce entry situation as a means to intimidate Grandma Qin and Miss Qin. In order to secure her own safety, she has agreed to return to the Jiang family and employ them for the Jiang family¡¯s gain.¡±
¡°The Empress Dowager¡¯s intentions are quite transparent. She seeks to exploit this opportunity to eliminate both Grandma Qin and Miss Qin.¡±
¡°Her motives are apparent because she has endured a ten-year-long headache that defies treatment by even the most skilled physicians. Logically, even divine intervention wouldn¡¯t suffice. She is effectively on death row.¡±
¡°This message originates from the nanny responsible for the Empress Dowager¡¯s care,¡± Su Bin began, sharing the revtion.
ording to the nanny, the Empress Dowager harbored an intense hatred towards Grandma Qin. This animosity traced back to a past incident where Grandma Qin¡¯s actions had offended the Crown Prince at the time, leading to the Empress Dowager¡¯s abandonment at the tender age of 17 and her eventual widowhood.
The rise to empress status wasrgely attributed to her bearing the emperor¡¯s eldest son, for which she had been pregnant before her marriage. She attributed all her past misfortunes to Grandma Qin, insisting that if Grandma Qin hadn¡¯t married into the distant countryside, she would have dispatched assassins to eliminate her long ago.
Therefore, the Empress Dowager¡¯s true motive for summoning them to the pce was to seek an opportunity for revenge.
Upon hearing this, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but interject. ¡°Is Grandma Qin aware of the Empress Dowager¡¯s deep-seated hatred towards her?¡±
Mr. Chen shook his head. ¡°I doubt it. If she knew, her demeanor would likely betray her emotions, and she wouldn¡¯t have entered the pce with suchposure. It¡¯s safe to say very few people are aware of the Empress Dowager¡¯s history of neglect from her husband. Had she not be a widow, her resentment toward Grandma Qin might not run so deep.¡±
Su Bin acknowledged, ¡°You have a point.¡±
¡°But if Zhenzhen and the others sessfully cure the Empress Dowager¡¯s headache, couldn¡¯t she then be dissuaded from using them further?¡± Su Bin inquired.
Mr. Chen responded, ¡°The Empress Dowager may pause, but she¡¯ll undoubtedly seek other means to keep them within the pce and devise alternative schemes to harm them.¡±
Su Bin contemted his options. Perhaps he needed to consider officially recognizing the Marquis Mansion as his own and bing the heir, which might deter the Empress Dowager from casually harming Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother.
Mr. Chen appeared hesitant, struggling to convey something on his mind.
Finally, he spoke up, ¡°Su Bin, there¡¯s something else you should know..¡±
Chapter 280 - 280: Dinner Together
Chapter 280 - 280: Dinner Together
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Mr. Chen summoned his courage and addressed Su Bin directly, ¡°I fear there may be an impending crisis in Young Master¡¯s rtionship with Miss Qin.¡± Su Bin was visibly perplexed and inquired, ¡°Please borate.¡±
¡°If Miss Qin sessfully alleviates the Empress Dowager¡¯s headache, it will undoubtedly capture the Emperor¡¯s attention. He will likely visit the Empress Dowager¡¯s chambers to meet Miss Qin.¡±
¡°If, by any chance, the Jiang family had tampered with this situation beforehand, it could lead to significantplications.¡±
¡°Young Master and Miss Qin have not yet consummated their marriage. If the discovers this fact, she might decide to bring Miss Qin into the pce as a female official responsible for the Emperor¡¯s imperial cuisine.¡± ¡°This is particrly concerning given the Emperor¡¯s recent health issues.¡± ¡°This could potentially keep them confined within the pce.¡±
¡°Despite her title as a female official, in reality, she would be the
Emperor¡¯s consort¡¡±
Su Bin rubbed his temples, struggling to absorb the gravity of the situation. ¡°Is this scenario possible?¡±
Did Mr. Chen imply that they should expedite the consummation of the marriage with Zhenzhen? But their rtionship had not reached that level of intimacy.
What course of action should he take?
It appeared that he needed to arrange a meeting with the Old Marquis.
The atmosphere in the Empress Dowager¡¯s chamber was so hushed that even the faintest whisper of a falling hair could be discerned. Everyone refrained from making any noise, for they dreaded the prospect of rousing the slumbering Empress Dowager.
Four hours passed before the Empress Dowager stirred and opened her eyes.
To her astonishment, her headache had disappeared. She couldn¡¯t help but attribute it to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s skillful treatment. She recalled drifting off to sleep while Qin Zhenzhen was administering acupuncture¡ªa testament to the girl¡¯s exceptional talent.
Implying a significant improvement in her mood, the Empress Dowager addressed the attendant who approached, bowing respectfully, ¡°What time is it? How long have I been asleep?¡±
The Empress Dowager found herself in unusually high spirits. Her relief from the headache and the invigorating sleep she had just enjoyed were clear indications of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s remarkable effectiveness.
With utmost respect, the attendant replied, ¡°Your Majesty, it is now noon. You have slept for nearly four hours.¡±
The Empress Dowager¡¯s improved disposition prompted her to announce, ¡°I am quite hungry.¡±
The attendant intuitively grasped her meaning, and with a nod, two pce maids promptly attended to the Empress Dowager as she prepared to leave her bed.
Curious about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s whereabouts, the Empress Dowager inquired, ¡°Where is Miss Qin presently?¡±
¡°Your Highness, I have already arranged for her and her entourage to rest in their quarters.¡±
Satisfied with this response, the Empress Dowager instructed, ¡°Summon her to my presence.¡±
The housekeepers inquired cautiously, ¡°Shall we begin preparing the food, or should we send for her?¡±
The Empress Dowager¡¯s not known for her easygoing nature, responded, ¡°Bring her here first.¡¯
Her eagerness to meet Qin Zhenzhen was palpable, as she had numerous questions for her.
Perhaps it was due to her newfound relief from the headache, but the Empress Dowager¡¯s animosity towards Grandma Qin had somewhat subsided.
The housekeeper personally went to extend the invitation to Qin Zhenzhen.
Approaching Qin Zhenzhen, she whispered, ¡°The Empress Dowager seems to be in a good mood.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded appreciatively. ¡°Thank you, nanny.¡±
She then turned to reassure her grandmother, saying, ¡°Grandma, please don¡¯t worry. Everything will be fine.¡±
¡°Indeed, I understand.¡±
Grandma Qin was aware that the overseeing nanny was under Su Bin¡¯s jurisdiction. While she remained unaware of Su Bin¡¯s reasons for her resentment, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of relief.
After a brief wait, the Empress Dowager caught sight of theposed Qin Zhenzhen.
Internally, Qin Zhenzhen questioned the ancient custom of kneeling when she knelt down to offer her obeisance. In the modern era, only the deceased knelt!
Why did people in ancient times insist on this tradition? The Empress Dowager intervened, stating, ¡°Rise. Join me at the table.¡± Promptly, a pce maid brought a stool for Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen respectfully acknowledged the gesture, bowing once more.
¡°Thank you, Empress Dowager..¡±
Chapter 281 - 281: Peaceful Mindset
Chapter 281 - 281: Peaceful Mindset
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In ancient times, ordinary families upheld a tradition of maintaining silence during meals and slumber, a custom that extended even to the royal pce.
During the current meal, an atmosphere of hushed contemtion prevailed, with no one daring to break the silence.
This silence wasrgely attributed to the fact that each individual was deeply engrossed in their own thoughts. Furthermore, the Empress Dowager herself refrained from speaking, effectively dissuading anyone else from uttering a word.
As a matter of fact, the Empress Dowager had been discreetly observing Qin Zhenzhen. To her discerning eye, Qin Zhenzhen disyed none of the rustic qualities one might expect from a countryside upbringing. In fact, she exuded a grace and refinement that surpassed even those of youngdies born into prosperous families.
Unlike her peers, who either cowered in fear or vied for her favor, Qin Zhenzhen interacted with the Empress Dowager on her own terms. In all honesty, were it not for the fact that she was Jiang Fenglian¡¯s granddaughter, the Empress Dowager might have developed a genuine fondness for her.
s, such was the irony of the situation.
Following the meal, the Empress Dowager dismissed the servants, leaving only
Qin Zhenzhen and her two trusted attendants.
¡°Have you added any particr ingredients to that painkiller of yours?¡±
¡°Your Majesty, I can provide a prescription to the Imperial Hospital. If the imperial physicians can source the required herbs, they can concoct the same remedy.¡±
The Empress Dowager found this response rather perplexing. This young woman did not seem like one who would readily negotiate or extend such generosity as sharing a prescription with the imperial hospital. It was clear to her that Jiang Fenglian must be making efforts to win favor.
¡°How long will it take to alleviate my migraine?¡±
¡°The Empress Dowager, your persistent headache has endured for quite some time. To observe noticeable improvement, you will need to undergo at least four acupuncture sessions. Afterward, a regimen of medicinal pills for six months will be necessary for aplete recovery.¡±
The Empress Dowager nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Then prepare to stay in the pce for half a year.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen calmly stated, ¡°Your Highness, I may not be able to remain within the pce for an extended period due to the scarcity of one essential herb required for the pills. It may be necessary for me to locate it personally.¡±
She couldn¡¯t help but smirk inwardly; if they intended to confine her within the pce against her will, she certainly wouldn¡¯t oblige by crafting those headache-relief pills.
There was a particr medicinal ingredient she had fabricated as part of the pill form¡ªaponent that simply did not exist. No matter how many individuals they dispatched in search of it, they would undoubtedlye up empty-handed.
The Empress Dowager couldn¡¯t help but snort inwardly. She could easily see through this as an excuse for Qin Zhenzhen to avoid a lengthy stay in the pce.
Hmph, let¡¯s see who can endure it longer!
However, Qin Zhenzhen initiated a query, ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯m curious about your current condition.¡±
The Empress Dowager responded honestly, ¡°My head is no longer aching, and I feel more invigorated than before.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen exined, ¡°That¡¯s due to the effectiveness of the acupuncture treatment and the lingering effects of the previous medication.¡±
¡°As expected, I won¡¯t suffer from a headache for the next two days.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll make preparations to administer another acupuncture treatment on the third day,¡± Qin Zhenzhen added.
The Empress Dowager furrowed her brow. ¡°Why wait until the third day? Can¡¯t you perform it tomorrow?¡±
She was concerned that if the reliefsted for two days and then the pain returned on the third, it would be excruciating. Her previous headaches recurred every other day, and they were excruciatingly lengthy.
Truth be told, they were practically constant.
After experiencing a peaceful night¡¯s sleep, the Empress Dowager had no desire to endure the torment of debilitating headaches that would rob her of sleep for days on end.
Qin Zhenzhen rified, ¡°Being too close won¡¯t be effective.¡±
¡°If the Empress Dowager, you are concerned about the possibility of a migraine re-up, you can consider using a painkiller as a temporary relief measure.¡±
¡°However, I possess only a limited supply of painkillers, and I strongly advise against excessive use, as it can have counterproductive effects.¡±
¡°So, my rmendation is that should a migraine ur, the Empress Dowager endure it for the time being.¡±
The Empress Dowager sensed a hint of yfulness in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s tone.
Just as she was about to voice her displeasure, Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°Over the next two days, I encourage Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager, to make every effort to keep calm and actively cooperate with the treatment. This approach will help mitigate the suffering..¡±
Chapter 282 - 282: Immortal Pill (1)
Chapter 282: Immortal Pill (1)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words had a temporary soothing effect on the Empress Dowager¡¯s anger.
¡°Furthermore, I strongly advise you, the Empress Dowager, to prioritize rest and disregard trivial matters. It would be most beneficial to recline as much as possible and cooperate with your treatment. You may achieve twice the results with half the effort.
Once Qin Zhenzhen departed, a shadow cast over the Empress Dowager¡¯s countenance. Promptly, she summoned the royal physician to inquire further.
She had intentions to heed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s counsel and recline, but her inherent nature could not be easily subdued.
From her youth, she had been an imposing figure of great authority. Her family¡¯s immense influence solidified her standing within the pce, where her position remained unshaken.
Even when she erred as the Crown Prince Consort and faced neglect from the Crown Prince and the eventual Emperor, it was merely a chilly indifference.
Her ascent to Empress urred upon the Emperor¡¯s demise and her son¡¯s ascension to the throne, a position she steadfastly maintained.
She had always exercised control over every facet of her life. How could she simplyy supine and dismiss all concerns without withering away?
Foremost on her mind was whether the pill form provided by Qin Zhenzhen was authentic or counterfeit.
The two chief physicians from the Imperial Physician Court promptly arrived and reverently handed over Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s handwritten form to the Empress Dowager.
¡°Empress Dowager, this is the pain relief form authored by Miss Qin.¡±
The Empress Dowager feigned a single perusal of the document, her expression faltering upon encountering more than twenty medicinal herbs. In truth, she too struggled toprehend the intricacies of these herbs.
¡°Are all these herbs readily avable in the Imperial Hospital?¡±
At that moment, she had already let slip Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s earlier advice from her thoughts.
Qin Zhenzhen had cautioned against excessive use of painkillers, as it might undermine the treatment¡¯s efficacy. Nevertheless, suspicion lingered in her mind that Qin Zhenzhen might be exacting revenge, deliberately withholding pain relief.
In anticipation of any future need, she anxiously beseeched the imperial physicians to prepare the painkillers.
One of the imperial physicians lowered his head respectfully and replied, ¡°Your
Highness, among the 24 medicinal herbs listed, the Imperial Physician
Hospital possesses all but one.¡±
The Empress Dowager¡¯s gaze turned frosty. ¡°How can it be that there¡¯s a medicinal herb the imperial hospitalcks?¡±
¡°What purpose do you imperial physicians serve?¡±
The trembling imperial physician exined, ¡°This particr herb is known as the ¡®Immortal Pill.¡¯ It thrives in remote mountains and forests and is exceedingly rare. While ancient texts document its existence, few have everid eyes on it.¡±
¡°Consequently, the Imperial Hospital currently has no reserves¡¡±
The Empress Dowager¡¯s re grew even darker. ¡°If we dispatch someone to locate it, how long would it take to procure?¡±
The imperial physician began to perspire nervously. ¡°This¡ I cannot offer a definite timeframe. ording to the texts, the discovery of this medicinal herb relies heavily on sheer chance.¡±
If the Empress Dowager insisted on a search, it would pose a considerable predicament.
Furthermore, the Imperial Hospital¡¯s medical practitioners had collectively debated the omission of this particr herb from the form with great care. They reached a consensus that Qin Zhenzhen had not omitted it intentionally toplicate matters.
Their conclusion rested upon ancient texts that affirmed the Immortal Pill¡¯s effectiveness in alleviating headaches, along with its benign impact on the human body and its reputed ability to extend one¡¯s lifespan.
Such attributes were the very reason it bore the moniker ¡°Immortal Pill.¡±
However, he could not rule out the possibility that Qin Zhenzhen had deliberately said that she did not have any stock.
She actually wanted them to beg her.
Qin Zhenzhen undoubtedly possessed a reserve of the Immortal Pill. The key questiony in her willingness to part with them.
To unearth the truth, the physicians of the Imperial Hospital ndestinely dispatched a message to Qin Zhenzhen, inquiring about her conditions for relinquishing the Immortal Pill..
Chapter 283 - 283: Immortal Pill (2)
Chapter 283: Immortal Pill (2)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen responded to the imperial physician at the Imperial Physician
Hospital, asserting that while she didn¡¯t possess an Immortal Pill at the moment, she remained confident in her ability to acquire one with a stroke of
luck.
Her quest led her deep into the heart of Mount Daling, where she quickly located two Immortal Pill nts. Regrettably, she had already depleted both of them for her needs.
Upon receiving Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s message, the imperial physicians collectively disyed concern. In the remote mountainous region within Meijiang Prefecture City¡¯s jurisdiction, thendscape teemed with valuable medicinal herbs but also harbored significant peril. Not only were there ferocious beasts and the world¡¯s deadliest snakes, but the area was also tainted with a subtle yet pernicious miasma that could poison unsuspecting victims. The odds of survival for anyone venturing in were slim, yet Qin Zhenzhen seemed to mention it nonchntly.
Before the imperial physicians could formte a more viable solution, they were summoned by the Empress Dowager herself.
As expected, the Empress Dowager pressed them to procure an Immortal Pill.
Their current recourse was to earnestly exin the formidable challenges inherent in obtaining such a rare and elusive elixir.
However, upon hearing the imperial physician¡¯s exnations, the Empress Dowager¡¯s demeanor underwent an abrupt transformation.
¡°Bring Miss Qin here!¡±
A brief intervalter, Qin Zhenzhen was summoned once more for further interrogation.
She reiterated her previous statement, ¡°I have indeed exhausted all the Immortal Pills in my possession. I used them to craft several types of potent remedies, each of which boasts remarkable efficacy. Hence, our supply of painkillers is quite limited.¡±
¡°I acquired these Immortal Pills deep within Mt. Daling, and they tend to appear simultaneously. If you happen to be fortunate, unearthing them won¡¯t prove too challenging.¡±
¡°Yet, luck remains an indispensable factor in this endeavor.¡±
¡°I must emphasize that I¡¯ve ventured there on three separate asions since then, yet I haven¡¯t encountered them again.¡±
¡°I¡¯vee to realize the Immortal Pill possesses a remarkably versatile range of applications, proving miraculous in almost any medicinal concoction.¡±
¡°As of now, I still possess three painkillers. One has already been taken by the Empress Dowager, leaving two remaining.¡±
As Qin Zhenzhen spoke, she produced one of the pills.
Upon hearing this, the Empress Dowager¡¯s countenance darkened noticeably.
Initially, Qin Zhenzhen had offered a glimmer of hope, only to then bluntly reveal that there were only two of these extraordinary painkillers left.
Nevertheless, she carried on, seemingly unfazed by the Empress Dowager¡¯s expression, and presented another pill form.
¡°This form corresponds to the pill I¡¯ve created specifically for the Empress Dowager. After consuming it for approximately six months, it willpletely alleviate your headaches, Empress Dowager, with no likelihood of recurrence thereafter.¡±
¡°I invite the imperial physician to inspect it.¡±
Imperial Physician Yang epted the form with a noticeable tremor in his hand.
The form retained itsplexity,prising 24 medicinal ingredients, and, just like the painkiller recipe, necessitated the inclusion of two sets of male and femaleponents, in addition to the elusive Immortal Pill. Empress Dowager inquired, ¡°What is your assessment of this recipe?¡±
Imperial Physician Yang replied hesitantly, ¡°This pill form is remarkably intricate, and, well¡ it hinges on obtaining the Immortal Pill, which is a rather challenging endeavor.¡±
Upon hearing this, Empress Dowager couldn¡¯t suppress her frustration and mmed her hand on the table, eximing, ¡°Regardless of its difficulty, we must procure it! Otherwise, what purpose do you serve?¡±
Imperial Physician Yang shot a resentful nce at Qin Zhenzhen and continued, ¡°Empress Dowager, pleasepose yourself. I will certainly dispatch someone to search for it.¡±
¡°But, in my opinion, Miss Qin has already embarked on this quest once. With her as our guide, we could potentially locate it much more swiftly.¡±
He couldn¡¯t help but contemte dragging Qin Zhenzhen into the situation, knowing that if they failed to secure the Immortal Pill, she would not escape the consequences.
However, to his surprise, Qin Zhenzhen sneered, remarking, ¡°Imperial Physician Yang, are you suggesting that you personally intend to venture into Mount Daling in pursuit of the Immortal Pill?¡±
Chapter 284 - 284: Immortal Pill (3)
Chapter 284 - 284: Immortal Pill (3)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Imperial Physician Yang, have you ever considered the possibility that, in case of misfortune, several years may pass before you locate it? Even if you can afford it, the Empress Dowager may not.¡±
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words, Imperial Physician Yang was so incensed that he felt as though he might spew blood.
¡°In that case, Miss Qin, what approach do you suggest for expediting the acquisition of the Immortal Pill?¡± he inquired.
Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°Undoubtedly, the fastest route is to step out of the rankings and obtain it at a premium.¡±
Imperial Physician Yang¡¯s anger surged even higher. So, this was her motive!
His conviction that Qin Zhenzhen possessed the Immortal Pill grew stronger by the moment. The Empress Dowager shared this belief as well.
Before they could voice their thoughts, however, Qin Zhenzhen added, ¡°Don¡¯t assume that I still possess the Immortal Pill or that my intentions are purely financial. ¡±
¡°If that¡¯s your assumption, you¡¯re gravely mistaken!¡±
¡°I am also eager to expedite the Empress Dowager¡¯s headache treatment and return to managing my business in the prefectural city.¡±
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eloquence, the Empress Dowager sneered.
¡°You initially imed to be fully confident in curing my headache with just four acupuncture sessions!¡±
¡°Now you¡¯re suggesting pill-based recovery, a contradictory stance. Are you not apprehensive of facing severe consequences?¡±
Unperturbed, Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°Your Highness, what I stated earlier remains true. Four acupuncture sessions can indeed alleviate your headache.¡±
¡°However, given the decade-long persistence of your ailment, it has inflicted considerable harm to your health. Forgive my frankness, but without subsequent treatment, it will be challenging for the Empress Dowager to enjoy a long life.¡±
¡°But with the sustained benefits of the pill, I have every confidence that the Empress Dowager can reach the age of one hundred.¡±
¡°I¡¯m well aware of how elusive Immortal Pills can be. I initially refrained from mentioning the subsequent treatment out of concern that it might raise suspicions, potentially even among the imperial physicians at the hospital. If the Empress Dowager also believes I¡¯m motivated solely by greed, it could cost me my life.¡±
¡°But physicians are inherentlypassionate. Ultimately, I opted to disclose the form.
¡°If we seed in procuring the Immortal Pill, it would be a momentous development.¡±
¡°For the Empress Dowager to live to one hundred, I would willingly spend thousands of gold coins.¡±
¡°I genuinely have no intention of risking my life for mere wealth! ¡± Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words left the Empress Dowager feeling skeptical.
Upon reflection, her reasoning was sound.
If Qin Zhenzhen had indeed possessed the Immortal Pill, she wouldn¡¯t have revealed it. Doing so would have amounted to deceiving the Empress Dowager and would surely lead to her demise.
It was all about the money.
Yet, within the pce, wealth was in abundant supply.
Moreover, there were no imprable barriers in the world. If Qin Zhenzhen had truly dared to deceive her, the Empress Dowager would have a pretext to eliminate her once the truth came to light!
¡®l¡¯ne Empress Dowager promptly made ner decision.
¡°Let us proceed as Miss Qin suggests.¡±
¡°Yes, I will deliver the message immediately,¡± Imperial Physician Yang said, nodding in agreement with haste.
He even privately scolded himself for his momentarypse of judgment.
As long as he could secure the Immortal Pill, he cared little whether Qin Zhenzhen was being truthful or not!
After Imperial Physician Yang departed, Qin Zhenzhen reiterated her earlier statements to the Empress Dowager that afternoon.
¡°Empress Dowager, if you do not cooperate with the treatment, I may not be able to alleviate your headache.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve staked my life on this endeavor. While it¡¯s a significant matter for me, your headache is of paramount importance, Empress Dowager. Don¡¯t you agree?¡±
The Empress Dowager suppressed her anger once more.
She had a point.
She also resolved to follow Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s advice.
After all, the foremost concern was curing her headache..
Chapter 285 - 285: Underestimating
Chapter 285 - 285: Underestimating
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen returned to her room and found her grandmother anxiously awaiting her.
¡°Grandma, I¡¯ve already assured you that I¡¯ll be fine. Please don¡¯t worry,¡± Qin Zhenzhen said, attempting to reassure her.
Grandma Qin looked deeply concerned. ¡°I don¡¯t want to worry, my dear, but I understand the nature of that old witch. How can I be at ease if you go to see
Later that evening, the housekeeper arrived with the pce maids to deliver food to Qin Zhenzhen and the others. In a discreet move, Qin Zhenzhen slipped a note to the housekeeper, requesting that she pass it on to Su Bin.
After much contemtion, Qin Zhenzhen decided to confide in Su Bin about certain matters. She was aware of Su Bin¡¯s extensive intelligencework through Mr. Chen and his strategic acumen, traits that had made him the primary antagonist in the story.
With her unexpected arrival, many plotlines had taken unexpected turns. Su Bin had been informed of his background and secured start-up capital well in advance, and his talents had been revealed ahead of schedule. In theory, this should have been advantageous for him.
However, because of her presence, Su Bin might now have to contend with even more formidable adversaries and challenge the entire Jiang family.
ording to the original storyline, the current emperor was expected to sumb to illness that winter. Subsequently, the crown prince would be assassinated, leaving the other princes too young to shoulder the burden of leadership. This would pave the way for the Eighth Imperial Uncle, Chu Yunfei, to ascend the throne.
Chu Yunfei¡¯s mother hailed from the Jiang family, and her exceptional culinary and medical skills, coupled with her beauty, had earned her a position as a consort. Chu Yunfei¡¯s rise to power and eventual ascension owed much to the support of the influential Jiang family.
In the original storyline, the emperor¡¯s demise due to illness and the assassination of the Crown Prince were considered to be the handiwork of Chu Yunfei and the influential Jiang family.
Su Bin had been chosen as the Primus, a decision made by none other than Chu Yunfei himself. The book portrayed Chu Yunfei as Su Bin¡¯s benefactor. At the time, Chu Yunfei had recently ascended the throne and struggled to gain the favor of all the civil and military officials. However, fortune smiled upon him when he recognized Su Bin¡¯s strategic brilliance and appointed him as the Primus.
Gradually, Su Bin was entrusted with increasingly significant responsibilities, and his talents began to shine. He offered invaluable counsel to Chu Yunfei, eliminated unruly ministers, and ensured the survival of those who deserved it. Su Bin meticulously prepared the groundwork for Chu Yunfei¡¯s rule.
With Su Bin¡¯s assistance, Chu Yunfei effectively instilled fear in the hearts of the civil and military officials, and Su Bin swiftly rose to be the Grand Secretary at a remarkably young age.
In contrast, the original novel¡¯s male protagonist, Chu Tiansheng, was the son of the reigning emperor. He had spent his youth in a temple due to his frailty and illness. Although he suspected that his father and brother¡¯s deaths were not natural, he was too young to take any action and could only bide his time.
During this period, Chu Yunfei saw Su Bin as his greatest ally and confidant, entrusting him with considerable authority. In return, Su Bin believed that Chu Yunfei owed him a significant debt of gratitude and remained fiercely loyal to him, steadfastly protecting his interests.
Consequently, when the original novel¡¯s male lead reached adulthood and sought to reim the throne, Su Bin naturally sided with Chu Yunfei. Ultimately, they were thwarted by the male and female protagonists.
Qin Zhenzhen was determined to alter the course of the plot and change Su Bin¡¯s destiny of being vanquished by the male and female protagonists as depicted in the original narrative. After careful consideration, she resolved not to allow Chu Yunfei to assume power.
There was only one way to prevent Chu Yunfei from ascending the throne, and that was to expose his wolfish ambition to snatch the throne in advance. Qin Zhenzhen decided to tell Su Bin about Chu Yunfei¡¯s wild ambitions in advance.
She needed Su Bin¡¯s help.
Because she had already realized that the Empress Dowager wanted to kill her and grandma.
At first, she had underestimated the hatred between the Empress Dowager and grandma..
Chapter 286 - 286: Won’t Disappoint Her
Chapter 286: Won¡¯t Disappoint Her
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin was left in a state of shock upon receiving Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ndestine missive.
In her message, Qin Zhenzhen revealed that, following an acupuncture session administered to the Empress Dowager, she had sessfully relieved the venerable woman¡¯s debilitating headache. To her astonishment, the Emperor had personally made an appearance during this encounter.
However, what caught her attention was the Emperor¡¯s disconcerting demeanor¡ªit appeared as though he had fallen victim to a subtle, slow-acting poison. This insidious toxin was exceedingly challenging to detect, employing the principle of gradual consumption to surreptitiously advance its malevolent agenda. As time psed, finding a cure would prove to be a formidable task.
Rumors abounded that the Emperor¡¯s personal attendant was a captivating maiden dispatched to the pce by the influential Jiang family. Not only was she a paragon of beauty, but her culinary skills were also exceptional, ultimately securing her a special ce in the Emperor¡¯s heart. It seemed increasingly likely that this enchanting woman was the perpetrator behind the Emperor¡¯s poisoning, with suspicions pointing towards a nefarious plot by the Jiang family to usurp the throne.
Su Bin had assumed control of the intelligencework for over three months now, and he was well aware that the mother of the Eighth Imperial Uncle hailed from the Jiang family. He also understood that the Eighth Imperial Uncle was not one to be underestimated. Nevertheless, he had never fathomed that the Eighth Imperial Uncle would dare to conspire against the Emperor, directly plotting regicide.
This dire situation raised an unsettling question: would Su Bin bepelled to eliminate the Crown Prince next?
Qin Zhenzhen went on to borate on their predicament, exining that she had discerned a malevolent glint in the Empress Dowager¡¯s eyes. Regardless of whether she could ultimately cure the Empress Dowager¡¯s ailment, it seemed usible that the malevolent old woman might eventually seek to harm her and her grandma.
In a bid to buy time, Qin Zhenzhen intended to exploit the scarcity of the Immortal Pill, using it as an excuse for the dy. She concluded her message by inquiring whether Su Bin believed it necessary to inform her of the Emperor¡¯s poisoning.
Would they die faster if they said it?
The Emperor¡¯s poison was still not that deep. She had the ability to detoxify him, but it was hard to say if it wouldst longer.
In order to ensure the safety of Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma, Su Bin was already conflicted about whether to go to the Marquis Mansion to acknowledge his kin and use his status as the heir of the Marquis Mansion to protect Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma.
However, now that he suddenly knew a huge secret, Su Bin pondered for a moment and made a decision.
He sent someone to call Mr. Chen over.
The two of them were plotting in the study.
When Mr. Chen heard that someone had poisoned the emperor, he was also shocked.
¡°Who do you think poisoned the emperor, sir?¡±
Mr. Chen named two suspects.
The initial suspect in the case was the Eighth Imperial Uncle, closely associated with the Jiang family. This suspicion arose due to their role in overseeing the Emperor¡¯s sustenance, aplished through the selection of pce beauties to serve in this capacity. This raised suspicions of potential favoritism.
It¡¯s worth noting that the pce beauties dispatched by the Jiang family were prohibited from bearing royal offspring. This measure aimed to prevent any tampering with the Emperor¡¯s food or involvement in potential power struggles among the princes.
Consequently, the Jiang family¡¯s women sent to the pce primarily held roles as attendants in the imperial kitchen or as sources of entertainment.
Yet, an exception existed in the form of the Eighth Imperial Uncle¡¯s mother. The fact that he had grown up in good health was a testament to her exceptional influence.
The second suspect in the case was the Crown Prince. His motivey in the potential to ascend the throne more swiftly by poisoning the Emperor. However, hecked the opportunity to administer poison unless he could somehow bribe one of the Jiang family¡¯s pce beauties responsible for the Emperor¡¯s service. This avenue seemed rtively improbable.
As for the other princes, they were still too young to be considered suspects.
Given these circumstances, the Eighth Imperial Uncle emerged as the primary suspect.
Following about two hours of deliberation and nning in the study, Su Bin and Mr. Chen finalized their strategy.
Su Bin reassured Qin Zhenzhen, advising her not to take any action for the time being and to await her husband¡¯s forting positive news.
Upon receiving this message, Qin Zhenzhen blushed. Su Bin¡¯s demeanor was bing increasingly affectionate, even referring to himself as her husband in his notes. Was he truly intent on putting on such a disy?
Nheless, she harbored no significant concerns about waiting for Su Bin¡¯s positive oue. Her confidence in his capabilities was unwavering, and she believed that he would not let her down..
Chapter 287 - 287: Digging a Pit
Chapter 287: Digging a Pit
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Originally, prior to entering the pce, Qin Zhenzhen had been hesitant to disrupt the emperor¡¯s scheme.
Yet, as she contemted the growing influence of the Jiang family once the Eighth Imperial Uncle assumed power, it became apparent that her own family would be at the mercy of the Jiangs.
Initially, Qin Zhenzhen held reservations about the Empress Dowager¡¯s character. She considered letting the Eighth Imperial Uncle handle her fate, sparing herself from direct involvement.
At first, she doubted the feasibility of unraveling such an intricate plot, fearful of the risk to her own life.
However, circumstancespelled her to reconsider, given the increasing threat posed by the Jiang family¡¯s influence.
Furthermore, Su Bin had rapidly garnered support for his cause.
Having encountered the emperor in the pce, Qin Zhenzhen recognized that he had indeed been poisoned, albeit in the early stages, which was manageable.
With Su Bin¡¯s assistance, she anticipated that reversing the throne¡¯s recement would prove less daunting than initially perceived.
Qin Zhenzhen offered guidance to the imperial physicians at the Imperial
Physician Hospital, asserting that while others might not possess the coveted ¡°Immortal Pill, ¡± the Jiang family assuredly did. This conviction stemmed from her grandmother¡¯s revtions, revealing that many of the Jiang family¡¯s confidential concoctions contained traces of the Immortal Pill.
The imperial physicians, swayed by her words, promptly dispatched a messenger to the Jiang family, seeking this elusive substance.
Infuriated, the Head of the Jiang Family responded vehemently. Not only had Qin Zhenzhen and her associates declined to return to the Jiang Family fold, but they had also resorted to such deceptive tactics to gue the Jiangs. Their audacity was beyond measure.
With patience, Patriarch Jiang endeavored to enlighten the imperial physicians, stating, ¡°Every medical schr is well aware that the Immortal Pill is nothing more than a mythical legend recounted in ancient medical tomes. No one has ever borne witness to its existence. How could you be so easily beguiled by a young girl?¡±
He continued, ¡°Allow me to disclose the truth. The Jiang Family perceived the young girl¡¯s exceptional potential. Our original intention was for her to return to the family and benefit from the wisdom of our elder members, thus enabling her to ascend to greater heights.¡±
¡°Yet, she disyed ingratitude. Despite drawing her talents from the Jiang lineage, she regarded our family as adversaries.¡±
¡°She has even alleged that the Jiang family concealed Immortal Pills with malicious intent.¡±
¡°Why would you entertain such a ring falsehood?¡±
The imperial physician scoffed, retorting, ¡°Is Patriarch Jiang insinuating that the entire Imperial Physician Court consists of imbeciles?¡±
¡°Mrs. Qin herself has personally verified that your family¡¯s hidden elixir contained a mysterious herb, which strongly suggests it might be the Immortal Pill.
¡°Furthermore, the ingredients within Miss Qin¡¯s provided pill align precisely with the descriptions of the Immortal Pill in ancient texts!¡±
¡°If you refuse to produce the Immortal Pill, just say so! There¡¯s no need to belittle us as gullible fools!¡±
The Imperial Physician departed from the Jiang Family estate, his anger unabated.
Only then did the Head of the Jiang Family grasp theplexity of the situation, recognizing the formidable nature of Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother.
They had unwittingly fallen into a meticulouslyid trap, one of considerable magnitude.
His conviction deepened that Qin Zhenzhen possessed an extraordinary constitution. Her bodily fluids might hold properties akin to the legendary Immortal Pill documented in ancient texts.
A woman with such a unique constitution was an invaluable asset to the Jiang family, and he was resolute in bringing her back into their fold.
Now, he had the task of informing the pce that their family did not possess the Immortal Pill.
Upon their return to the pce, the imperial physicians promptly ryed their visit to the Jiang family to the Empress Dowager.
Although the Empress Dowager harbored reservations about the veracity of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ims, she deemed it necessary to summon the Head of the Jiang Family to the pce for a personal inquiry.
After deliberations with the family elders, the Jiang Family Head made a unanimous decision to present a selection of the most precious medicinal herbs from their stock to the Empress Dowager, hoping to facilitate a resolution..
Chapter 288 - 288: Secret News
Chapter 288 - 288: Secret News
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The head of the Jiang Family arrived at the pce bearing a valuable batch of medicinal herbs. After much persuasion, the Empress Dowager finally epted the truth that the Jiang Family did not possess the Immortal Pill.
Interestingly, the secret ingredient mentioned by Grandma Qin for the mysterious pill turned out to be ganoderma lucidum.
In a gesture of sincerity to win the Empress Dowager¡¯s trust, the Jiang Family Head even sacrificed the remaining half of a thousand-year-old ganoderma lucidum. The imperial physicians were visibly excited by this precious gift.
Given their willingness to part with such a valuable item, the Empress Dowager decided not to press the Jiang Family Head further.
In response, he promised to keep a close watch on any developments rted to the Immortal Pill and promptly inform the imperial hospital of any news.
As he left the pce, the head of the Jiang family breathed a sigh of relief but nursed a deep hatred for Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin. However, he realized that he couldn¡¯t act recklessly; he needed to consider the bigger picture. He would endure for now, knowing that once the Jiang Family gained more power, Qin Zhenzhen would be at his mercy.
Meanwhile, as the Jiang family plotted their next move against Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother, a secret began to circte on the capital¡¯s streets. Though it was only whispered in private, the rumor soon spread like a gentle breeze throughout the city, reaching even the suburbs where citizens discussed it discreetly.
This secret revolved around none other than the current Empress Dowager and
Grandma Qin, with the caption: ¡°Unmasking the Intrigues of a Long-Time
Widow.¡±
It was a story from more than 40 years ago.
The concubine daughter of the Jiang family, Jiang Fenglian, was as beautiful as a flower, but her talent and beauty coexisted. Her culinary skills and medical skills were one of the best among her peers.
At that time, many noble young masters in the capital wanted to marry Jiang Fenglian.
Even the Crown Prince at that time was interested in Jiang Fenglian and wanted to marry her back to the Crown Prince¡¯s residence.
When the Crown Princess Consort found out about this, she came up with a n and instigated the Empress Dowager to point Jiang Fenglian to the Seventh Prince.
When the Crown Prince learned of the Crown Princess Consort¡¯s good deeds, he hated her in his heart. Because her maternal family was powerful, the Crown Prince did not dare to abandon her, but thanks to this, he neglected her and let her live as a widow.
At that time, the crown prince consort thought that all of this was caused by Jiang Fenglian, so she viciously sent her to abduct Jiang Fenglian, blinded her, and even got her raped.
They forced Jiang Fenglian to marry into a remote vige.
Jiang Fenglian thought that from now on, she would have nothing to do with
anyone and everything in the capital.
Unexpectedly, Jiang Fenglian and her granddaughter, Qin Zhenzhen, were suddenly summoned to the pce by the Empress Dowager.
Although it was said that she was treating the empress dowager¡¯s headache, the truth was that the empress dowager hated Jiang Fenglian and wanted to use this opportunity to kill Jiang Fenglian and her granddaughter out of revenge
Ever since the Empress Dowager harmed Jiang Fenglian, she had been a living widow. The Crown Prince had never touched her again until he became the Emperor.
A woman who had been a widow for more than forty years was terrifying. Even though Jiang Fenglian was far away, the Empress Dowager still did not let her off.
Now, Jiang Fenglian and Qin Zhenzhen had note out since they entered the pce. It was very likely that they had been killed by the Empress Dowager.
Although the main character of the secret was the Empress Dowager, it did not stop the people from talking about it in private.
This was because the term ¡®living widow¡¯ had already be a major point of discussion.
These rumors swiftly made their way into the pce¡¯s inner circles.
In response, the emperor, consumed by anger, wasted no time dispatching investigators to ascertain the veracity of these ims.
However, the individual behind the rumor was astute, having long withdrawn from the capital, leaving behind no discernible trace.
The Empress Dowager¡¯s countenance turned as dark as the depths of a cauldron. She harbored a deep suspicion that the dissemination of this secret was linked to Grandma Qin.
Given that these events unfolded four decades in the past, knowledge of them remained confined to a select few..
Chapter 289 - 289: No Small Matter
Chapter 289 - 289: No Small Matter
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the presence of the Empress Dowager¡¯s somber countenance, Qin Zhenzhen remained remarkablyposed.
She had already received a ndestine letter from Su Bin, alerting her to his efforts in disseminating rumors outside the pce.
She and her grandmother had never ventured beyond the pce walls, so they were entirely unaware of the events outside.
¡°Empress Dowager, has something untoward urred?¡± Qin Zhenzhen inquired with an air of innocence, despite sensing the Empress Dowager¡¯s mounting anger.
¡°You needn¡¯t feign ignorance!¡± the Empress Dowager seethed. ¡°Once I capture your associate, you shall both meet your demise!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°Empress Dowager, but why?¡±
Empress Dowager paid no heed to her query and issued orders to have Grandma Qin taken away in istion.
The frustration surged within Qin Zhenzhen. She knew that her grandmother faced immediate and severe punishment.
Indignant, she retorted, ¡°Your Highness! If you dare separate my grandmother from me, I vow to withhold the remedy for your ailment!¡±
The Empress Dowager sneered in response, ¡°Should you refuse, I shall annihte your entire lineage!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen matched her sneer with her own determination. ¡°Even if you were to obliterate the world itself, I shall not yield! You¡¯ve been ensnared by someone else¡¯s machinations, despite your supposed wisdom!¡±
¡°Though I am unaware of the specifics, I surmise that the Jiang family must have manipted you into believing we were behind these actions, diverting your anger towards us!¡±
The Empress Dowager momentarily froze in astonishment.
Qin Zhenzhen pressed on, ¡°Am I not correct in my assumption?¡±
¡°The Jiang family¡¯s objective is to goad you into eliminating us in a fit of rage, thereby concealing their ulterior motives from scrutiny!¡±
The Empress Dowager couldn¡¯t contain her curiosity and inquired, ¡°What schemes does the Jiang Family harbor?¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen hesitated, responding, ¡°I am reluctant to divulge it now, for I fear you may not believe it without the Emperor¡¯s presence.¡±
¡°This matter directly concerns the Emperor¡¯s well-being.¡±
¡°It would be wise to summon the Imperial Hospital¡¯s physicians as well; they can verify the veracity of my ims.¡±
The Empress Dowager finally grasped the gravity of the situation.
¡°Are you suggesting that someone has tampered with the Emperor¡¯s food?¡±
The Empress Dowager, having witnessed a plethora of intrigues within the pce, was no stranger to subterfuge.
She was astute and quick to connect the dots¡ªespecially since the individual responsible for the Emperor¡¯s meals during this time happened to be the beauty introduced into the pce by the Jiang family.
Qin Zhenzhen remained tight-lipped, her anger simmering.
The nanny seized the moment to discreetly whisper to the Empress Dowager,
¡°Empress Dowager, this is a matter of great significance¡¡±
After a brief contemtion, the Empress Dowager decided to summon the Emperor and the physicians from the Imperial Hospital.
¡°And extend invitations to the Jiang Family¡¯s beauty and Imperial Concubine Jiang as well!¡±
Whether Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ims were baseless or not, the truth would soone to light.
¡°The Emperor is here!¡±
Upon the Emperor¡¯s arrival, Qin Zhenzhen, the Imperial Hospital physicians, and the Empress Dowager¡¯s attendants knelt in reverence to wee him.
Imperial Concubine Jiang was significantly younger than the Empress Dowager, and during the periods when she enjoyed favor, she had managed to incur the Empress Dowager¡¯s profound displeasure. Among the numerous concubines of thete Emperor, she was the one the Empress Dowager despised the most.
Beauty Jiang bore a striking resemnce to Imperial Concubine Jiang, which only intensified the Empress Dowager¡¯s animosity, owing to the Emperor¡¯s fixation on her beauty. The Empress Dowager harbored genuine concern that her son¡¯s vitality was being sapped away by Beauty Jiang.
Facing both women, the Empress Dowager wore a strained expression, her apprehensions evident.
Especially now, the Empress Dowager found herself reluctantly hoping that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ims were veracious¡ªthat the Jiang Family¡¯s beauty had indeed tampered with the Emperor¡¯s food.
Such confirmation would grant her the legitimacy to openly remove these two women surnamed Jiang from the pce.
Imperial Concubine Jiang¡¯s heart raced at the tension in the room.
Beauty Jiang¡¯s heart pounded just as intensely. She had conducted her covert actions so discreetly that not even the imperial physicians could detect them.. But Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s discernment raised unsettling questions: had she seen through her ndestine activities?
Chapter 290 - 290: Extremely Stupid
Chapter 290 - 290: Extremely Stupid
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After the Emperor took his seat, Qin Zhenzhen leaned in and quietly addressed him, ¡°Your Majesty, I couldn¡¯t help but notice a slight change in your expression. Would you allow the imperial physician to examine your pulse?¡±
The Emperor had been engrossed in thepany of a beautifulpanion when the Empress Dowager unexpectedly summoned him. Naturally, he was not in the best of moods.
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s request, his irritation grew.
¡°How dare you question my well-being! I¡¯m in excellent health; I could wrestle a tiger, for heaven¡¯s sake! Why this unnecessary concern?¡±
Lately, he had been feeling rather courageous and had managed to charm the tears from Beauty Jiang.
Beauty Jiang, although initially anxious, couldn¡¯t resist adding to the tension.
She scolded, ¡°Do you believe that the imperial physicians of the Imperial Hospital are mere decorations? How could they overlook the Emperor¡¯s difort?¡±
¡°You¡¯re just a rustic from the countryside. Are you not afraid of losing your tongue?¡±
Imperial Concubine Jiang wanted to intervene, but Beauty Jiang, emboldened by the Emperor¡¯s favor, had grown arrogant and dismissive. She had even forgotten who the Empress Dowager was.
The Empress Dowager cast a cold gaze at Beauty Jiang and asserted, ¡°In my presence, you have no right to speak out of turn.¡±
Beauty Jiang appealed to the Emperor with a look of injustice.
In order to spare the beauty further difort, the Emperor quickly interjected, ¡°Mother, let us not quarrel over this. What she says is not entirely unfounded¡
The Empress Dowager had always been assertive, even daring to interrupt the Emperor, dering, ¡°It is not for her to determine the truth; that falls to the imperial physician!¡±
The Emperor¡¯s anger was steadily rising. After suppressing it for a moment, he maintained hisposure out of respect for the Empress Dowager, though he was resolved to address itter.
¡°Mother, we will revisit this matter in due time. I have another pressing issue to attend to at present.¡±
With that, the Emperor dismissed everyone unrted, leaving only himself, the Empress Dowager, Qin Zhenzhen, and her grandmother.
¡°How dare you, Qin Zhenzhen! Did you orchestrate the spread of those rumors outside?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen feigned innocence, replying, ¡°What rumors, Your Majesty? Please enlighten me.¡±
The Emperor¡¯s anger red, and he was on the verge of ordering someone to punish Qin Zhenzhen. However, the Empress Dowager intervened, saying, ¡°I wish to have a private conversation with the Emperor.¡±
The two of them retreated to an inner chamber. The Empress Dowager inquired of her son, ¡°Your Majesty, if these rumors were indeed spread by them, what should be their punishment?¡±
¡°Their crime warrants a public beheading! No, their entire family should face execution!¡±
¡°Then who will attend to my headache?¡±
The Emperor paused for a moment, taken aback.
Empress Dowager continued, ¡°Clearly, they are aware that such actions will lead to their heads rolling, unless they have grown weary of life.¡±
The Emperor was greatly surprised. ¡°Mother, are you suggesting that someone is framing them?¡±
Empress Dowager nodded, ¡°We cannot dismiss that possibility.¡±
However, the Emperor shook his head. ¡°The only ones who hold a grudge against them are the Jiang family, but the Jiangs are not fools. They know the consequences of such actions, yet they are still taking the risk.¡±
¡°Is it necessary to employ such a perilous strategy against the two of them?¡± Empress Dowager sighed.
¡°I initially shared your view. I believed that the Jiang family wouldn¡¯t resort to this. ¡±
¡°But if it wasn¡¯t them, then who?¡±
¡°The Jiang family possesses the mostprehensive knowledge of events from over 40 years ago! There are aspects even Jiang Fenglian remains ignorant of!¡±
¡°Furthermore, with the exception of Imperial Concubine Jiang, no one else is aware of my widowhood!¡±
At the mention of Imperial Concubine Jiang, the Empress Dowager clenched her teeth in frustration.
However, the Emperor remained unconvinced. ¡°I believe, Mother, that you¡¯ve been swayed by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s persuasive words. The Jiang family would never resort to such actions.¡±
¡°I now see it clearly. The rumors were indeed spread by Qin Zhenzhen and her associates.. It¡¯s a strategy to undermine the Jiang family, which is quite shortsighted!¡±
Chapter 291 - 291: The Emperor’s Impotentness
Chapter 291 - 291: The Emperor¡¯s Impotentness
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°But what if the Jiang family intends to overthrow the Emperor?¡± The Emperor regarded the Empress Dowager¡¯s words as a mere metaphor, responding with a subtle smile.
¡°Mother, if the Jiang family seeks my downfall, they would not resort to such
rumors,¡± he reassured her.
The Empress Dowager persistently voiced her concerns, ¡°But what if the Jiang
Family aims to provoke us into harming Qin Zhenzhen out of anger?¡±
¡°Their concern likely stems from the fear that Qin Zhenzhen might disrupt their ns.¡±
Perceiving his mother¡¯s continued uncertainty, the Emperor pressed for more information. She decided to reveal what Qin Zhenzhen had confided.
¡°During my anger, I contemted harming Jiang Fenglian first, which prompted Qin Zhenzhen to make those remarks..
¡°This is a serious matter. She wouldn¡¯t casually make baseless usations.¡±
¡°The knowledge she possesses has its roots in the Jiang family. It¡¯s usible she discerned their tampering with the emperor¡¯s food.¡±
¡°Your Majesty, do not overlook the restlessness of your Eighth Imperial Uncle and the Jiang family¡¯s reputation for intrigue.¡±
The Emperor concealed his shock at this revtion.
When the Empress Dowager and the Emperor reappeared before the assembly, Imperial Concubine Jiang paled visibly upon seeing the Empress Dowager¡¯s expression.
¡°Qin Zhenzhen, approach and examine the Emperor¡¯s pulse.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen stepped forward and, after a moment, released the Emperor¡¯s hand.
¡°I have diagnosed the Emperor with a deficiency of yang energy.¡±
¡°Physiologically, individuals with a deficiency of yang energy tend to be heat-prone and may also experience increased susceptibility to desires.¡± The room fell silent as everyone absorbed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s audacious statements.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s courage in speaking so boldly was undeniable.
The Emperor¡¯s countenance darkened significantly, though Qin Zhenzhen remained resolute.
The Empress Dowager hadn¡¯t anticipated such a diagnosis either, and her expression grew somber. If Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s assessment proved urate, it would be a significant blow to the group of imperial physicians.
Suppressing his anger, the Emperor fixed a piercing re on Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Exin to me why individuals with a deficiency of yang energy tend to be inclined toward lust.¡±
He had every intention of exposing her deceit, and if she failed to provide a credible exnation, she would surely regret her words.
Unperturbed, Qin Zhenzhen responded calmly, ¡°People with a deficiency of yang energy experience a false sense of arousal.¡±
¡°Such individuals often exhibit faster heartbeats and elevated blood pressure, akin to hypertension. These arepensatory responses.¡±
¡°In simpler terms, those with a deficiency of yang energy may appear strong on the surface, but it¡¯s a deceptive strength.¡±
¡°If one indulges these false sensations, their lifespan will significantly diminish.¡±
The Emperor¡¯s face flushed with embarrassment. Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s audacity seemed to know no bounds.
The other imperial physicians nodded in agreement, acknowledging the uracy of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s exnation.
Upon the Empress Dowager¡¯s insistence, Imperial Physician Yang was tasked with examining the Emperor¡¯s pulse.
After a moment, Imperial Physician Yang released the Emperor¡¯s hand but hesitated, unsure whether to share his findings in front of the assembled audience, as it could potentially embarrass the Emperor.
The Empress Dowager warned Imperial Physician Yang, ¡°If there¡¯s anything wrong with His Majesty¡¯s body, no matter what, you¡¯re not allowed to hide it!¡±
¡°Those who intentionally conceal this will face severe consequences!¡± The decree was clear and harsh.
Imperial Physician Yang had no recourse but to divulge the truth. ¡°Your Highness, it is indeed true that the Emperor has a deficiency of yang energy¡¡±
The Empress Dowager erupted in fury. ¡°You, imperial physicians, are utterly ipetent! So many of you have attended to the Emperor, yet none of you noticed his deficiency of yang energy?¡±
Imperial Physician Yang weakly defended himself, saying, ¡°I did hint at it to the Emperor once, but he did not take it seriously.¡±
¡°At that time, the Emperor¡¯s condition was not particrly severe, so I prescribed a remedy without advising abstinence..¡±
Chapter 292 - 292: Death Way
Chapter 292 - 292: Death Way
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Emperor¡¯splexion deepened into a shade of crimson, his usatory gaze locked on Imperial Physician Yang. He seethed, ¡°It was you who assured me back then that it wasn¡¯t a significant concern, that it could be remedied with medication! ¡±
Imperial Physician Yang, trembling with fear under the Emperor¡¯s wrath, attempted to rify his stance. ¡°At that time, Your Majesty, the condition wasn¡¯t particrly severe. Just yesterday, I examined your pulse, and it didn¡¯t appear dire. I¡¯m baffled by the sudden seriousness of it.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen interjected, ¡°If you¡¯d like, I can exin the reason, Your Majesty.¡±
The Emperor, his expression dark and brooding, reluctantly granted permission. ¡°Speak!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen extended a pointed finger toward Beauty Jiang and implicated,
¡°The credit for this situation lies with her!¡±
Beauty Jiang paled noticeably, though she made a concerted effort to maintainposure. ¡°Your Majesty¡¡±
The Empress Dowager intervened firmly,manding, ¡°Silence!¡±
Under the Empress Dowager¡¯s authority, Beauty Jiang dared not utter another word.
¡°Your Majesty, why don¡¯t you recount to Imperial Physician Yang and the others what dishes Beauty Jiang served you this afternoon? What fruits did you consume?¡± The eunuch standing beside the Emperor hastily listed the foods that had graced the Emperor¡¯s table at Beauty Jiang¡¯s residence.
As the imperial physiciansprehended that the Emperor¡¯s yang energy hypertension had worsened due to consuming ipatible foods simultaneously, a collective realization washed over them. It was now evident that the Emperor¡¯s condition had escted because of dietary choices!
Upon learning this exnation, the Emperor directed a furious re at Beauty Jiang.
Overwhelmed with fear, Beauty Jiang knelt on the floor, her entire frame trembling. ¡°Your Majesty, please, allow me to exin¡ It was an inadvertent oversight..
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s tone bore a hint of mockery as she remarked, ¡°It¡¯s rather amusing to attribute this to an unintentional mistake when a member of the Jiang family, known for their culinary and medical expertise, is involved!¡±
Beauty Jiang made a desperate attempt to p her own face once more, her voice choked with sobs. ¡°Your Majesty, I admit my wrongdoing. I should never have resorted to such methods to gain your favor. But it¡¯s only because of my deep love for you..
Qin Zhenzhen, unwilling to indulge further theatrics, cut Beauty Jiang off.
¡°No need for any more pretense! The imperial physicians at the Imperial Hospital are not fools! Your motives are crystal clear, and the consequences are apparent to all.¡±
¡°Your actions were never driven by love for the Emperor but rather by a sinister intent to harm him!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen turned to Imperial Physician Yang, seeking his affirmation. ¡°Isn¡¯t that right, Imperial Physician Yang?¡±
The Empress Dowager fixed a stern gaze on Imperial Physician Yang, urging him to speak the truth.
Imperial Physician Yang concurred, stating, ¡°If the Emperor continues to consume conflicting foods and engages in sexual activity due to heightened excitement, toxins will umte in his body. Over time, he will indeed fall seriously ill, and there will be no remedy.¡±
The Emperor felt a shiver run down his spine upon hearing this dire prognosis.
¡°But, if the issue is addressed promptly, and if it hasn¡¯t persisted for too long, there is hope for aplete recovery,¡± Imperial Physician Yang added, offering a glimmer of relief.
The Emperor, aware of his routine visits to Beauty Jiang¡¯s chambers for meals and daytime trysts, hoped fervently that his condition could be reversed within a month.
Imperial Physician Yang continued his exnation, shedding light on theplexities of diagnosing symptoms caused by conflicting foods.
¡°The difficulty in identifying such symptoms, resulting from the ingestion of ipatible foods, is why I initially dismissed any concerns.¡±
He proposed a solution, ¡°I suggest that Your Majesty thoroughly examine all the dishes you¡¯ve consumed at Beauty Jiang¡¯s residence to determine if there¡¯s a pattern or if it¡¯s mere coincidence.¡±
Prompted by the Emperor¡¯s concern, the eunuch in attendance swiftly retrieved a small notebook, ready to assist in recording the details.
¡°Your Majesty, these are the dishes regrly served at Beauty Jiang¡¯s residence,¡± the eunuch confirmed, presenting the small book.
The Empress Dowager promptly instructed, ¡°Pass the notebook to Imperial
Physician Yang.¡±
As Imperial Physician Yang and the other physicians prepared to examine the contents of the notebook, Beauty Jiang, overwhelmed by the revtion, crumpled to the ground.
Her actions had beenid bare for all to see, and the grim consequences awaiting her were unmistakable ¨C a fate sealed by her own deceit..
Chapter 293 - 293: Qin Zhenzhen Won ‘t Disappoint Him
Chapter 293 - 293: Qin Zhenzhen Won ¡®t Disappoint Him
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Although she was acutely aware of her impending demise, she clung to a glimmer of hope that Imperial Concubine Jiang might yet spare her life.
She was still so young; the thought of her own premature death was unbearable!
However, she had not anticipated the brutal force with which Imperial Concubine Jiang would expel her. ¡°Wretched creature! Speak! Why have you done this? Who gave you these orders?¡±
Beauty Jiang writhed in agony on the ground.
Empress Dowager sneered. ¡°Imperial Concubine Jiang, do you dare to silence me within my own presence?¡±
Before Imperial Concubine Jiang could utter a retort, Empress Dowagermanded, ¡°Summon Imperial Concubine Jiang and Beauty Jiang immediately!¡±
Beauty Jiang trembled with fear.
It was rumored that within the Empress Dowager¡¯s private chambers, there existed a ndestine chamber of torment. None who entered there emerged unscathed; all confessed their secrets and yearned for a swift death, regardless of their identity.
Imperial Concubine Jiang was also apprehensive of facing this grim fate, but her resolve was sturdier than that of Beauty Jiang. ¡°Your Majesty, in the absence of concrete evidence, youck the authority to take such drastic measures!¡±
Empress Dowager disregarded Imperial Concubine Jiang¡¯s protest. With a dismissive gesture, a contingent of formidable guards seized Imperial Concubine Jiang and Beauty Jiang, leading them away.
Empress Dowager cast a stern gaze upon those in attendance. ¡°Let it be known:
should anyone dare to divulge the events that transpired here, they shall face the direst consequences!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma returned to their modest room.
Grandma Qin remained visibly shaken. ¡°That was a close call!¡± They had narrowly escaped a life-threatening situation.
¡°I wonder how Su Bin and the others are faring?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was notably calmer than her grandma. ¡°Considering Su Bin¡¯s resourcefulness, he won¡¯t sit idly by awaiting capture. He¡¯ll undoubtedly find a pretext to hide with the rest.¡±
¡°The worst-case scenario is that they might be apprehended by the Emperor before they can conceal themselves. However, Su Bin¡¯s gift of gab should keep him out of immediate danger.¡±
Grandma Qin sighed, ¡°I pray that you¡¯re right.¡¯
There was something else she couldn¡¯t quite grasp. ¡°Zhenzhen, can you truly discern that something¡¯s amiss with the Emperor just by looking at him?¡± She had surreptitiously observed the Emperor¡¯s demeanor earlier and hadn¡¯t detected any irregrities whatsoever.
Beauty Jiang had used the concept of antidote through food to deceive everyone, including the imperial physician. And yet, Zhenzhen seemed to have seen through it at a nce?
Zhenzhen¡¯s ability to read people was nothing short of extraordinary!
Unbeknownst to Grandma Qin, Qin Zhenzhen had deduced Beauty Jiang¡¯s actions due to her familiarity with the story¡¯s plot. Naturally, she had no intention of revealing this to her grandma.
Meanwhile, Su Bin and the others, after spreading the secret, relocated to a remote farm on the outskirts of the capital. The expansive property featured fields, tenants, and even a sprawling racetrack, providing an ideal setting for Qin Silong to instruct them in horseback riding and marksmanship.
This marked Su Bin¡¯s inaugural acquisition of a manor, a gesture that also served as a boon for everyone within the intelligencework.
Su Bin, making a solemnmitment to all those within the intelligencework, assured them of future acquisitions of simr estates. These properties were earmarked for their families¡¯ residence and as retirement havens.
Anticipating the inevitable outrage from pce insiders upon the revtion of the secret¡¯s dissemination, Su Bin understood that they would likely be used as the culprits behind the leak.
In preparation, he decided to take refuge on the farm well in advance, shielding himself from potential capture and mitigating numerous uncertainties.
While at the farm, Su Bin anxiously awaited positive updates from Qin Zhenzhen, confident that she wouldn¡¯t disappoint him.
Simultaneously, Mr. Chen diligently ryed thetest developments to Su Bin..
Chapter 294 - 294: Confession
Chapter 294 - 294: Confession
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Knowing that Qin Zhenzhen had already exposed the Jiang family¡¯s scheme and was temporarily out of danger, Su Bin let out a sigh of relief.
From Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s bag, he retrieved a long wooden box containing two seemingly inconspicuous stalks of dried grass.
As Su Bin surveyed his surroundings, confusion etched across his face. Could these unassuming des of grass truly be Immortal Pills with extraordinary effects?
Moreover, the notion that this Immortal Pill was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity had him intrigued. Determinedly, he embarked on a quest to consult an ancient book. ording to this treasured tome, the Immortal Pill could only be found in the depths of remote mountains and forests, a rare discovery requiring an abundance of luck.
The pce notice had further details, stating that the Immortal Pill typically made its appearance at specific times. In fact, it was said to have been unearthed once in the heart of Mount Daling, nestled within Huangshe County¡¯s jurisdiction.
Huangshe County fell under the governance of Meijiang Prefecture City and was rtively close by. However, Su Bin pondered when Qin Zhenzhen had ever ventured into Mount Daling¡¯s depths. Her audacity knew no bounds.
The notice also revealed that the Empress Dowager urgently required the
¡°Immortal Pill¡± for her ailment and was willing to purchase it for a handsome sum of one thousand gold coins.
It became evident that Qin Zhenzhen had set up this borate scheme as a trap for the Empress Dowager and her cohorts.
Firstly, she could employ the Immortal Pill to buy herself some time. Secondly, she could use it as leverage to extort a substantial sum of gold from the pce.
However, the Imperial Hospital¡¯s physicians were not naive. These two stalks of grass had to possess unique properties.
Unable to contain his curiosity, Su Bin leaned closer to the box, taking in its fragrance. Indeed, a pleasantly subtle aroma wafted from the grass. It wasn¡¯t overpowering, but it carried a refreshing quality.
Curiously, as he moved the Immortal Pill away from him, the fragrance inexplicably diminished, leaving him intrigued.
It was only at that moment that he realized the tenacity of the fragrance emitted by this medicinal herb. To truly appreciate its enchanting essence, he needed to draw nearer.
Acting swiftly, Su Bin sealed the wooden box tightly to prevent any further leakage of the fragrance.
Intriguingly, he couldn¡¯t help but draw a connection between the fragrance of the herb and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s own unique scent. While their skin had never made contact, there had been moments when they were in close proximity, and he distinctly recalled encountering a simr fragrance before.
This revtion left Su Bin deep in thought.
Even the gods themselves would cower before the Empress Dowager¡¯s formidable interrogation methods; thus, how could Imperial Concubine Jiang and Beauty Jiang hope to endure them?
One by one, the two women confessed their involvement.
Beauty Jiang¡¯s knowledge was limited. She was only aware of her obligation to execute her family¡¯s orders, driven by the dire threat that her parents and siblings would meet a gruesome fate if she refused.
Under the family head¡¯s instructions, she had employed food as a means to suppress toxins within the emperor¡¯s body, simultaneously inducing a sensation of heightened ¡°Yang energy¡± in him, fostering a false sense of strength and lustfulness.
The Imperial Hospital¡¯s physicians typically conducted their morning checkups on the emperor to identify any health issues. Consequently, as long as the emperor¡¯s condition remained stable, the Imperial Hospital¡¯s physicians would remain oblivious to her actions.
When pressed about the motive behind poisoning the emperor, Beauty Jiang imed it was the Jiang family¡¯s desire to expedite the Crown Prince¡¯s ascension to the throne.
In essence, poisoning the emperor had been the idea of His Highness the Crown Prince.
Neither the Emperor nor the Empress Dowager found this exnation
credible, yet Beauty Jiang remained steadfast in her assertion, enduring near-torture in her unwaveringmitment to her story.
The Empress Dowager reluctantly abandoned her pursuit of Beauty Jiang and focused her attention on dealing with Imperial Concubine Jiang.
Initially, Imperial Concubine Jiang professedplete ignorance, firmly cing the me solely on Beauty Jiang¡¯s actions.
However, she dropped a hint that when Beauty Jiang had entered the pce, she had a romantic interest. It was suggested that her attack on the emperor might have stemmed from a desire for revenge against him for taking her beloved away.
This exnation seemed dubious at best, leading the Empress Dowager to order the torture to persist. Eventually, under the relentless torment, Imperial Concubine Jiang altered her testimony to match Beauty Jiang¡¯s ount.
It was only after enduring continued torture that Imperial Concubine Jiang finally confessed to her involvement with the Eighth Imperial Uncle..
Chapter 295 - 295: Two Perverse Women
Chapter 295 - 295: Two Perverse Women
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Except for the Empress Dowager, the Emperor¡¯s trusted aides, and a handful of imperial physicians, only Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma were privy to the events unfolding within the pce. The veil of secrecy was carefully maintained.
To confuse the Jiang family and gather further evidence of their collusion with the Eighth Imperial Uncle¡¯s rebellion, the Empress Dowager executed a clever ruse. She feigned benevolence by sending Beauty Jiang and Imperial Concubine Jiang back to their residence, all the while cing them and their loyal followers under discreet house arrest.
To the public, a different narrative was concocted ¨C that they were suffering from an undisclosed illness, apanied by troubling rashes that made close contact with others perilous.
Simultaneously, the Emperor dispatched the Dragon Guards to apprehend the Eighth Imperial Uncle. Remarkably, the Eighth Imperial Uncle was absent from the capital at the time. Yet, this did not deter the Dragon Guards from aplishing their mission with remarkable efficiency. In a mere three days, they captured the unsuspecting Eighth Imperial Uncle and delivered him back to the pce.
As word of these developments circted throughout the capital, the Jiang family initially attributed the plot to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s supposed machinations. They surmised that it was an attempt to sway public opinion, preventing the Empress Dowager from executing them.
Master Jiang dismissed this notion with a contemptuous snort, even going so far as to mock the ineffectiveness of such a strategy. In his view, it would only hasten their demise and bring ruin upon their kin. After all, he was acutely aware of the gravity of their crimes, which had led to the execution of his entire family.
Regretfully, the head of the Jiang family shook his head, uttering a somberment. ¡°What a wasted opportunity.¡±
He couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang ofpassion for Qin Zhenzhen, who possessed the unique Jiang family lineage. They had contemted various methods to coerce her submission, but before they could set their ns in motion, they found themselves ensnared in a self-imposed, nonsensical predicament.
Saving Qin Zhenzhen had be an insurmountable challenge, amentable truth considering her exceptional capabilities, talents, and unique physical attributes.
Nheless, their demise was a silver lining in the dark cloud of the situation. They had been left with no other option but to make them vanish, a n that had been on their agenda from the outset. Now, it spared them the effort of taking drastic measures.
As the head of the Jiang family grappled with regret, an unexpected message arrived from grandma Qin¡¯s eldest sister, inviting the family¡¯s patriarch for a conversation. She imed it concerned a matter of great importance.
This elderly woman was responsible for the harm inflicted upon grandma Qin in the past, culminating in her marriage to the Seventh Prince as the Seventh Imperial Concubine. Subsequently, when the Seventh Prince discovered her role in harming grandma Qin, her fate was even harsher than that of the Empress Dowager.
The Empress Dowager, despite her status as a bereaved widow, maintained a position of prominence. The Crown Prince dared not forsake her, and she had consistently held a position of influence, from Crown Princess Consort to Empress, and finally to Empress Dowager.
On the other hand, the Seventh Imperial Concubine found herself in a pitiable situation, bereft of both children and attention. Yearster, she faced conviction, instigated by the Seventh Prince, and was ultimately divorced, returning to the Jiang Family.
Due to the prestige of the royal family, the Jiang family hesitated to provoke the Seventh Prince, ultimately epting her back into their fold. However, who would dare to wed a woman who had been discarded by a prince, bearing the stigma of such a fall from grace?
She didn¡¯t dare to entertain the thought of secretly cultivating a rtionship with a man. The Jiang family maintained strict surveince over her, curtailing her freedom and forbidding her from engaging in any activities that might lead to trouble.
This situation only fueled her resentment toward grandma Qin, surpassing even her animosity towards the Empress Dowager. Upon learning of Grandma Qin¡¯s gifted granddaughter, she promptly conveyed this information to the pce and suggested to the Empress Dowager that she summon both Qin
Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin.
Her sinister n was to manipte the Empress Dowager into executing Grandma Qin, using the imperial authority to serve her own vendetta. In her twisted mindset, she mirrored the Empress Dowager¡¯s malevolence. Despite both being responsible for grandma Qin¡¯s suffering, they bizarrely regarded her as their adversary.
In her mind, she believed she had devised a brilliant scheme. Whether or not Qin Zhenzhen could alleviate the Empress Dowager¡¯s headaches, she was convinced that both Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin would meet their demise.
As she anxiously awaited news of Grandma Qin and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s impending fate from the confines of her home, she overheard ndestine rumors circting outside. The shock of these rumors made her realize that someone might be setting a trap for the Jiang family.
Curiously, it seemed that no one within the Jiang family was cognizant of the impending danger looming over them..
Chapter 296 - 296: Qin Zhenzhen Became a Great Contributor
Chapter 296 - 296: Qin Zhenzhen Became a Great Contributor
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The head of the Jiang family paid a visit to the sister of the Seventh Imperial Concubine.
¡°Few are aware of the events that transpired four decades ago, and even fewer know of the Empress Dowager¡¯s long-standing widowhood.¡±
¡°Furthermore, these well-guarded secrets only highlight the Empress
Dowager¡¯s ruthless side, with no mention of any wrongdoing on the part of our Jiang family.¡±
¡°This is a precarious situation. The Empress Dowager may cast suspicions upon us.¡±
¡°I have a hunch that Jiang Fenglian and her granddaughter have devised a scheme to implicate our Jiang family.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve heard that Jiang Fenglian¡¯s granddaughter is quite persuasive. If she presents her case before the Empress Dowager, it¡¯s highly likely she¡¯ll seed.¡±
After hearing his sister¡¯s counsel, the head of the Jiang family remained unperturbed.
¡°Remember, all of you are women.¡±
¡°Even if Jiang Fenglian has intentions to frame our family, we must assess the viability of their n! ¡±
¡°Your viewpoint aligns with Jiang Fenglian¡¯s. Do you truly believe the Empress Dowager can be easily deceived?¡±
¡°Sister, please calm your mind and take some rest. Don¡¯t let these trifles trouble you.¡±
With that, the head of the Jiang family took his leave.
He harbored no anxiety. He couldn¡¯t have foreseen that Qin Zhenzhen would discern the Emperor¡¯s condition with just one nce.
He believed that Beauty Jiang¡¯s tasks would remain concealed, at least initially.
Furthermore, his informants within the pce would keep him updated on the pce¡¯s unfolding situation.
The missive revealed that the Empress Dowager was incensed upon learning the secret and desired to publicly punish Grandma Qin and Qin Zhenzhen with death.
She had also dispatched personnel to apprehend her brother and her husband¡¯s family, who had recently arrived in the capital with Qin Zhenzhen.
Subsequently, they yielded to the persuasive entreaties of the attendant by their side, who implored them to spare their lives temporarily. Their reasoning was that they needed to retain Qin Zhenzhen to tend to the Empress Dowager¡¯s persistent headache.
Meanwhile, Grandma Qin had already fallen under the Empress Dowager¡¯s custody.
Qin Zhenzhen performed a second acupuncture session on the Empress Dowager, yielding remarkable results. However, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s demeanor appeared troubled, suggesting that she may have been regretting her prior actions.
It must be acknowledged that the Empress Dowager wielded substantial influence in this regard.
To further bewilder the Jiang family, she instructed Beauty Jiang and Imperial Concubine Jiang to maintain regrmunication with the family, making it seem as though nothing unusual had urred within the pce.
This strategy further fueled the Jiang family¡¯s belief that Qin Zhenzhen had made a grave error.
Three dayster, the Eighth Imperial Uncle was ndestinely returned to the capital by the Dragon Guards. The emperor conducted an intensive overnight interrogation.
Following several days of investigation and collection of evidence, the emperor uncovered conclusive proof of collusion between the Eighth Imperial Uncle and the Jiang family.
When the Jiang family found itself suddenly besieged by the Imperial Guards, the head of the family was left in a state of utter bewilderment. Regret gnawed at him, but it was now toote.
Hundreds of members of the Jiang family were apprehended and incarcerated, with all their assets seized for the state treasury.
The residence of the Eighth Imperial Uncle was subjected to a thorough search.
Due to ack of prior preparation, most of the factions privately supported by the Eighth Imperial Uncle were subdued and captured by the Imperial Court. A handful managed to evade capture, posing little threat.
In swift session, the ministers who had been enticed by the Eighth Imperial Uncle suffered confiscation of their ill-gotten gains.
Thus, a plot to seize the throne crumbled easily.
Qin Zhenzhen emerged as a significant contributor.
The emperor disyed his fairness and gratitude. He recognized that Qin Zhenzhen had been instrumental in saving him, and as such, he feltpelled to reward her.
Previously, he had been indifferent to the Empress Dowager¡¯s intentions to harm Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin. However, in the wake of this incident, he directly addressed the Empress Dowager:
¡°Miss Qin is my savior. She not only rescued me from peril but also safeguarded the honor of our entire royal lineage. I implore Mother not to entertain thoughts of harm against them any longer.¡± ¡°Such actions tarnish the reputation of the royal family..¡±
Chapter 297 - 297: Don’t Keep Her
Chapter 297 - 297: Don¡¯t Keep Her
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Emperor¡¯s motivation for addressing the Empress Dowager in this manner stemmed from the counsel of a Daoist priest. The priest had cautioned him that harming his savior would incur karmic consequences, a fate he wished to avoid not only for himself but for the entire royal family.
Qin Zhenzhen had not only rescued him but also safeguarded the lives of both the Empress Dowager and the Crown Prince. The Emperor recognized that if any harm befell him, it would likely set in motion a chain of tragic events. He foresaw the Eighth Imperial Uncle orchestrating the assassination of the
Crown Prince, given their unusually close rtionship, which left the Crown Prince vulnerable to maniption.
The Empress Dowager, too, harbored deep-seated resentment toward Imperial
Concubine Jiang. Were it not for thete Emperor¡¯s decree to treat Imperial Concubine Jiang kindly, the Empress might have already eliminated her. While she refrained from murder, Imperial Concubine Jiang had endured the Empress Dowager¡¯s vindictiveness. With the Eighth Imperial Uncle poised to seize power, it seemed highly likely that the first person Imperial Concubine Jiang would target would be the Empress Dowager herself.
Recognizing the Emperor¡¯s stance, the Empress Dowager felt too ashamed to persist in her desire to eliminate Qin Zhenzhen and Grandma Qin. She reassured the Emperor, saying, ¡°Rest assured, Your Majesty, I¡¯m not a fool.¡±
Although she had abandoned her ns to harm Qin Zhenzhen and the others, the Empress Dowager resolved to retain Qin Zhenzhen by her side. This arrangement would ensure that if she fell ill, Qin Zhenzhen could provide prompt care, potentially extending her life to a ripe old age. The Empress Dowager confided her intentions to the nanny in charge of her scheme.
The nanny in charge concealed her inner astonishment, delicately attempting to persuade the Empress Dowager. ¡°Forgive my candidness, but while Miss Qin possesses remarkable medical skills, it may not be entirely appropriate topel her to remain within the pce.¡±
The Empress Dowager, curious, inquired, ¡°What concerns you? Please, enlighten me.¡±
The housekeeper, now emboldened, posed a question. ¡°Empress Dowager, have you considered why Miss Qin is unwilling to return to the Jiang Family?¡±
The Empress Dowager pondered for a moment before responding, ¡°It is likely that she wishes to avoid being exploited by the Jiang family. To put it inly, she does not want to be treated as a mere tool by the Jiang family for their own gain. ¡±
This particr housekeeper had once served as her personal maid, brought from her maternal family, and had always remained faithfully at her side. Their bond transcended that of ordinary master and servant. She had earned the Empress Dowager¡¯s trust and was privy to her innermost thoughts.
Furthermore, the nanny in charge had been integrated into the Chen family¡¯s intelligencework due to her family¡¯s financial difficulties. She had steadfastly refused to divulge information that could significantly harm the Empress Dowager, reinforcing the Empress Dowager¡¯s faith in her.
While the Empress Dowager¡¯s actions were often ruthless, she rarely made mistakes in her choices of personnel, especially when it came to those who offered valuable counsel. Consequently, the nanny in charge dared to voice her concerns to the Empress Dowager, who, in turn, maintained a rtively amiable demeanor in their interactions.
The nanny continued, ¡°Miss Qin has consistently resisted residing within the pce. If the Empress Dowagerpels her to stay and forcibly separates her from her husband, it may sow the seeds of resentment for the future.¡±
The nanny in charge stopped short, her heart racing with uncertainty.
She grappled with the dilemma of whether revealing this information would ultimately benefit or harm Qin Zhenzhen.
The Empress Dowager, visibly displeased, eximed, ¡°She has the audacity!¡±
However, despite her strong words, a fleeting unease passed through her thoughts.
The nanny in charge¡¯s concern held validity.
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s bold and meticulous nature, as well as her capacity for strategic thinking and action, it wasn¡¯t inconceivable that she could resort to poison without detection.
In the end, perhaps it was best not to keep her around after all..
Chapter 298 - 298: It Will Definitely Be Good
Chapter 298 - 298: It Will Definitely Be Good
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The housekeeper ryed the results to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Miss Zhenzhen, I¡¯ve followed your instructions and informed the Empress Dowager. However, her expression is rather unfavorable. It¡¯s hard to discern whether it¡¯s a positive or negative sign.¡±
¡°Miss Qin, please exercise caution,¡± advised the housekeeper.
Nheless, Qin Zhenzhen remainedposed. ¡°Thank you for your concern, nanny. I am confident it will turn out for the best.¡±
Individuals like the Empress Dowager were most apprehensive about their mortality and were reluctant to take risks.
As for the emperor, his disposition fell somewhere in the middle; not entirely benevolent, yet not overly tyrannical. Qin Zhenzhen appreciated his proactive measures to safeguard both her and her grandmother from the Empress Dowager¡¯s schemes.
On the surface, it appeared that the emperor possessed some sense ofpassion. However, he was known for his licentious behavior andcked significantpetence. Consequently, in the original storyline, he would easily sumb to being usurped by the Eighth Imperial Uncle.
With any luck, this emperor would exhibit moral integrity and prove himself deserving of support.
In the future, once Su Bin¡¯s name graced the Golden Ranking List, he could secure an official position under the emperor¡¯s reign, aiding in the stabilization of the realm.
However, if the Eighth Imperial Uncle failed to ascend to the throne, the chosen Primus might not be Su Bin, and the course of events could veer in unpredictable directions.
Su Bin and hispanions enjoyed several days in the outskirts of the capital. However, when news spread like wildfire that the Eighth Imperial Uncle and the Jiang family had staged a rebellion and were subsequently imprisoned, they decided to return to the capital.
The information concerning the Old Marquis was notably scarce. Initially, he remained oblivious to Su Bin and Su Ping¡¯s arrival in the capital. It wasn¡¯t until rumors circted throughout the city that he learned of Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother¡¯s dire situation within the pce.
Mr. Chen, weighed down by his busy schedule, felt that it was unjust to withhold the information from the Old Marquis for too long. Thus, during Su Bin and the others¡¯ excursion to the suburbs, he chose to divulge the events to the Old Marquis.
The Old Marquis expressed his discontent and reprimanded Mr. Chen, saying, ¡°Are you no longer treating me as your master? Why did you not inform me immediately? The twenty-year agreement between the Chen Family and the
Marquis Mansion has yet to expire! Are you now concealing matters from me?¡±
Su Bin shared simr sentiments. In the past, he had imed that his studies took precedence and he couldn¡¯t visit Beijing to see the Old Marquis. Yet, this time, he apanied his wife to the capital and seemingly had no intention of visiting him. Was the financial support he provided insufficient to earn him recognition as Su Bin¡¯s biological grandfather?
Mr. Chen exined, ¡°I chose not to disclose this information to the Marquis for the time being. It was actually Young Master¡¯s wish.¡±
¡°Due to the perilous situation that the young master and hispanions face upon entering the capital this time,¡± Mr. Chen began, exining the underlying animosity between the Empress Dowager and Grandma Qin.
Initially, Su Bin had contemted having the Old Marquis petition for a decree to bestow upon him the title of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir, effectively making Qin Zhenzhen the heiress of the Marquis Mansion. This scheme was intended to unsettle the Empress Dowager.
However, Su Bin eventually abandoned this n out of concern for the Marquis Mansion¡¯s welfare, not wanting to embroil the Marquis in potential troubles.
Mr. Chen continued, ¡°Young Master¡¯s actions are driven by his concern for the well-being of everyone in the Marquis Mansion. This is why he chose not to inform the Marquis of his presence in the capital.¡±
¡°I believe that Young Master has his reasons for this decision, which is why I supported him in keeping this matter concealed.¡±
Hearing Mr. Chen¡¯s exnation, the Old Marquis¡¯s stern expression softened. Nevertheless, he inquired, ¡°Mr. Chen, you have essentially be Su Bin¡¯s strategist. Why don¡¯t you advise him to pursue the same n as before?¡±
The Old Marquis was currently preupied with the thought of when Su Bin would bring his siblings back to the Marquis Mansion to honor their heritage. Regrettably, due to his ignorance of Su Bin¡¯s presence in Beijing, he had missed an excellent opportunity.
The Old Marquis¡¯s anxiety was palpable.
Mr. Chen gazed intently at the Old Marquis and asked, ¡°Are you truly unafraid of potentially implicating the entire Marquis Mansion on ount of Young Master?¡±
At that time, when the secret began circting, the Eighth Imperial Uncle and the Jiang family were still unharmed..
Chapter 299 - 299: Don’t Want to Incriminate the Marquis Mansion
Chapter 299 - 299: Don¡¯t Want to Incriminate the Marquis Mansion
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
If the pce insisted on punishing Qin Zhenzhen, and Su Bin were to be the heir of the Marquis Mansion, standing in defiance of the pce, there was a real risk of provoking the emperor¡¯s wrath, potentially leading to theplete obliteration of the Marquis Mansion. The Old Marquis likely hadn¡¯t contemted such dire consequences.
Upon Mr. Chen¡¯s gentle prodding, the gravity of the situation began to dawn on the Old Marquis. At his advanced age, the prospect of losing his family¡¯s estate weighed heavily on his mind, a fate he desperately wished to avoid.
¡°I believe that Young Master must have valid reasons for his actions,¡± the Old Marquis confessed, acknowledging the weight of the situation.
Mr. Chen, understanding the Old Marquis¡¯s concerns and reluctance to sacrifice the Marquis Mansion for Qin Zhenzhen, chose not to press the matter further. He shared the same apprehension about Su Bin¡¯s future being jeopardized by his involvement with Qin Zhenzhen.
After a moment of contemtion, the Old Marquis reached into his pocket and produced a stack of banknotes, which he handed to Mr. Chen. ¡°Please convey to Su Bin that confronting the pce directly is not a viable option. Instead, he should use this silver to establish connections that can aid Zhenzhen in her escape.¡±
¡°For instance, consider approaching the Jiang family; surely, they have a vested interest in ensuring Zhenzhen¡¯s safety.¡±
Mr. Chu interjected, ¡°Young Master has conveyed that the Marquis has already provided a substantial sum. There¡¯s no need for additional contributions.¡±
¡°He also mentioned that he has devised a n to rescue Madam and requested the Marquis¡¯s patience while awaiting positive news.¡±
Indeed, Su Bin had previously stated that they no longer required financial assistance from the Marquis Mansion, as the funds at their disposal were sufficient to navigate their predicament. Furthermore, Su Bin expressed his intent to return the money previously provided by the Marquis Mansion at ater date.
Mr. Chen wisely refrained from voicing the remainder of his thoughts, mindful of avoiding any offense that might upset the Old Marquis.
He understood the motivations behind the Old Marquis¡¯s desire for Su Bin to return to the Marquis Mansion. Firstly, it stemmed from a sense of guilt, a yearning to alleviate his conscience by elevating Su Bin and the others to the status of young masters and misses within the Marquis Mansion, ensuring they enjoyed the privileges they rightfully deserved.
Secondly, it was rooted in a genuine appreciation for talent. The Old Marquis believed in Su Bin¡¯s capability to shoulder the responsibility of rejuvenating the Marquis Mansion.
Lastly, Su Bin and the others were willing toe back to the Marquis Mansion as a means to demonstrate that his son¡¯s decision to leave home more than two decades ago had been a regrettable mistake.
The Eighth Imperial Uncle and the Jiang family found themselves incarcerated, serving time behind bars. In the midst of this upheaval, Su Bin and hispanions made their way back to the capital.
Despite these circumstances, Su Bin remained resolute in his decision not to meet with the Old Marquis. It fell upon the Old Marquis to make the journey to reach out to Su Bin.
The Old Marquis extended an invitation to Su Bin, urging him to return to the Marquis Mansion. He hoped that by experiencing the opulence and majesty of the mansion firsthand, Su Bin would embrace his role as its master and revel in the sense of superiority it offered.
However, Su Bin declined the offer, exining, ¡°Zhenzhen is still within the pce walls, which means the danger has not yet been averted. I risked my life to rescue her, and I¡¯m determined not to involve your further.¡±
Though the Old Marquis couldn¡¯t hide his disappointment, he chose not to press the matter. Instead, he posed a question to Su Bin, ¡°Mr. Chen mentioned that you¡¯ve devised a n to secure Zhenzhen¡¯s safety. Does it have any connection to the Jiang family and the Eighth Imperial Uncle¡¯s conspiracy? Did you y a role in exposing their plot?¡±
After careful observation, the Old Marquis detected a secret that Su Bin and Mr. Chen were concealing from him.
The Old Marquis possessed a keen understanding of Mr. Chen¡¯s family history and their former involvement in intelligence operations. This knowledge led him to entertain the suspicion that Mr. Chen had resurrected his previous intelligencework, now coborating with Su Bin.
In the presence of an intelligencework, it wouldn¡¯t be surprising for information about the Jiang family and the Eighth Imperial Uncle¡¯s conspiracy toe to light.
However, Su Bin steadfastly denied any involvement, stating, ¡°Ick the capability to orchestrate such an exposure. If I had been responsible, I would have likely received recognition from the pce.¡±
He emphasized that while he had conceived the n, it was Qin Zhenzhen who ultimately revealed the Jiang family and Eighth Imperial Uncle¡¯s treacherous plot, not him. Su Bin¡¯s words were indeed truthful.
Moreover, the pce had already disseminated the news that the emperor had intervened to save Qin Zhenzhen and her grandmother in the empress¡¯s presence. This endorsement by the emperor carried substantial weight, alleviating Su Bin¡¯s concerns in that regard.
Nevertheless, there remained another source of worry for Su Bin..
Chapter 300 - 300: Leaving the Palace
Chapter 300 - 300: Leaving the Pce
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After Qin Zhenzhenpleted the third acupuncture session for the Empress Dowager, the emperor summoned her to his presence, requesting her presence alone.
Qin Zhenzhen had noticeably shed some weight. Her countenance radiated a newfound beauty, while her silhouette had be even more voluptuous. Resembling her grandma Qin, she possessed a unique allure in her moments of quiet contemtion. When she moved, an audacious and untamed beauty flowed through her.
The emperor, already prone to lustful tendencies, found himself gazing at her in a trance-like state.
If only she were not already married.
He considered taking her as a concubine, a convenient recement for Beauty Jiang.
He vowed to shower her with genuine affection and, should he desire an heir, offer her the privilege of bearing his child in gratitude for saving his life.
Qin Zhenzhen, however, sensed the inappropriate intensity of the emperor¡¯s gaze and silently cursed lecherous men for their unsettling ways.
Fortunately, the emperor still recognized that Qin Zhenzhen was a married woman, and despite his infatuation, he restrained his impulses.
The emperor redirected his gaze to where it belonged.
He rewarded Qin Zhenzhen generously with gold and silver.
Then, he inquired about her adjustment to life within the pce.
Qin Zhenzhen replied confidently, ¡°I struggled initially, but I have grown more ustomed to it now.¡±
Seizing the moment, Qin Zhenzhen boldly voiced her request, ¡°I have a favor to ask of the Emperor.¡±
¡°Please, go on!¡±
¡°I wish to leave the pce for two reasons. Firstly, my grandma has been tormented by nightmares in recent days, and I believe taking her away from the pce may bring her some peace.¡±
¡°Secondly, my husband has grown increasingly concerned for my well-being and decided to follow me to the capital. He is a sentimental man, and since my entry into the pce, no news of me has reached him. I fear he must be filled with worry.¡±
¡°I intend to send my grandma out of the pce and meet him along the way, reassuring him of my safety.¡±
The emperor hesitated briefly.
The one responsible for detaining Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma was the Empress Dowager.
The Empress Dowager had already assured him that she would not harm their lives. Under these circumstances, intervening in her affairs might not be wise.
However, Qin Zhenzhen persisted, ¡°I solemnly swear that I will return to the pce as soon as possible to attend to the Empress Dowager. Please grant my request, considering that I once uncovered the Jiang family¡¯s conspiracy! ¡± The emperor appeared conflicted but ultimately acquiesced to her request.
Qin Zhenzhen expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the emperor.
She thought to herself that perhaps the emperor wasn¡¯t entirely despicable. Initially, his gaze had been somewhat inappropriate, but he had withdrawn it eventually.
He must have realized that she was already a married woman.
She couldn¡¯t help but think how fortunate she was that circumstances had forced her to marry Su Bin. Otherwise, escaping from the clutches of this elderly lecher would have been nearly impossible.
With the emperor¡¯s approval, Qin Zhenzhen and her grandma prepared to leave the pce. The Empress Dowager, knowing of the emperor¡¯s consent, did not obstruct their departure.
For the first time, he bestowed upon Qin Zhenzhen a selection of gold, silver, and jewelry as a token of appreciation.
Perhaps the words of the housekeeper had made an impact. The Empress Dowager decided it was prudent not to antagonize Qin Zhenzhen. Maintaining a cordial rtionship with her could prove advantageous.
Continuing to make life difficult for Qin Zhenzhen seemed unwise, especially considering the help she had provided.
Qin Zhenzhen graciously epted the Empress Dowager¡¯s reward without hesitation.
With the rewards bestowed by both the emperor and the Empress Dowager,
Qin Zhenzhen sessfully departed from the pce alongside her grandma.
The emperor disyed his benevolence by dispatching an elderly eunuch from the pce to escort her to Su Bin¡¯s residence.
Qin Zhenzhen disyed her generosity by generously tipping the eunuchs who apanied her with ten liang each.
She also discreetly slipped a golden coin into the old eunuch¡¯s palm.
Cultivating positive rtions with these servants of the emperor could prove beneficial in the future..
Chapter 301 - 301: Su Bin’s Acting Is Overdone Again
Chapter 301 - 301: Su Bin¡¯s Acting Is Overdone Again
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The elderly eunuch immediately lit up with a smile and addressed Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°I shall return to the pce first. Tomorrow, at this very hour, I¡¯lle to escort Miss Qin into the pce.¡±
The Emperor had granted Qin Zhenzhen a day¡¯s reprieve.
For this night, she could remain within her current abode.
Her immediate concern was to confer with Su Bin on how to expedite their exit from the pce, so she could resume her role as the wealthiest individual in the prefecture.
Little did Su Bin anticipate that Qin Zhenzhen would make ns to depart the pce so swiftly.
Among the pce¡¯s eunuchs, he waspelled to restrain his excitement and, with a longing in his eyes, draw Qin Zhenzhen into an embrace.
¡°My beloved, I¡¯ve yearned for you endlessly!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cheeks flushed as she instinctively attempted to extricate herself from Su Bin¡¯s sudden embrace.
How audacious of him to embrace her like this without warning!
Softly, Su Bin whispered in her ear, ¡°y along, quick!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback.
During their previous ruse, their intimacy had rarely exceeded handholding or flirtatious words. Embracing each other so tightly, as they were doing now, was entirely unprecedented.
And with so many witnesses present, her grandma included¡
Had Su Bin somehow misunderstood the situation?
Nevertheless, Su Bin continued, addressing the Emperor, ¡°Your Majesty..
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Could it be that Su Bin had received the secret letter and be aware of the Emperor¡¯s inappropriate advances toward her?
Yet, in the end, the Emperor remained oblivious.
Observing that Qin Zhenzhen was uncooperative, Su Bin feltpelled to salvage the act and sealed it with a kiss upon her cheek.
Qin Zhenzhen furiously stepped on Su Bin¡¯s foot, but he remained unyielding, refusing to release her grip.
Su Ping and Qin Silong were both left stunned by Su Bin¡¯s audacious actions.
They were fully aware that Su Bin had not yet consummated his rtionship with Qin Zhenzhen. Furthermore, they knew that Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin¡¯s intimacy was all part of their act.
Nheless, Su Bin¡¯s theatrics had crossed a line.
Even if he had genuine feelings for her, there was no need to embrace her so openly in public.
However, ever since Su Bin had devised a brilliant n to rescue Qin Zhenzhen and their grandma, Qin Silong¡¯s attitude towards him had undergone a profound transformation.
They recognized Su Bin as a resourceful, fearless, and astute individual, whose capabilities knew no bounds. His knowledge of the capital¡¯s affairs and the pce¡¯s inner workings, along with his strategic thinking, had earned their admiration.
It had been a rtively short span of time, but Su Bin had transformed from a timid schr into a confident and enigmatic young master.
Upon witnessing this disy, the elderly eunuch couldn¡¯t suppress hisughter and, with a hand covering his mouth, departed with the young eunuch driving the carriage to report back to the pce.
Once the carriage had disappeared from sight, Su Bin finally released his hold on Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen blushed and remained silent. She couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Su Bin had deliberately showcased their affection for the old eunuch to witness.
Could that lecherous old man truly have sinister intentions towards her, a married woman?
In their moment of privacy, it was Su Bin who broke the silence, seeking an exnation.
¡°Do you recall the woman responsible for harming your grandma?¡±
¡°Your grandma¡¯s eldest sister was once wed to the Seventh Prince¡¯s former wife.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded, her memory fresh. ¡°How could I forget? How is she now?¡±
Su Bin informed her, ¡°She was apprehended and incarcerated alongside the Jiang family. The Empress Dowager, fearing she might reveal a decades-old secret, attempted to expedite her fate.¡±
¡°However, this woman proved to be quite shrewd. Prior to her residence being seized, she assumed the guise of an elderly servant and had her nanny stand in for her in death.¡¯
¡°But her ruse unraveled when guards discovered the makeup concealed beneath her disguise.¡±
¡°In the course of her interrogation, she resorted to a desperate ploy, iming she possessed vital information that she wished to convey personally to the Emperor. She asserted that if she weren¡¯t allowed an audience with the
Emperor, she¡¯d prefer death over divulging it.¡± ¡°Just this morning, the Emperor visited the prison..¡±
Chapter 302 - 302: Su Bin’s Realization
Chapter 302 - 302: Su Bin¡¯s Realization
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°And?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found herself surprised by Su Bin¡¯s impressive knowledge, yet she refrained from doubting his words. Their close association with individuals close to the Empress Dowager certainly made it easier to manipte circumstances within the Heaven Prison.
¡°Well, I¡¯ve been eagerly awaiting updates,¡± Su Bin stated with a slightly irreverent tone and a mischievous smile, causing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cheeks to flush. It was apparent that Su Bin was indulging in some yful flirtation with her.
Uncertainty clouded her mind. She couldn¡¯t decipher if Su Bin¡¯s intentions were purely for amusement or if he genuinely desired a deeper connection. If Su Bin made the first move, should she reciprocate?
Her emotions were in disarray, and Su Bin¡¯s increasingly attractive appearance had disrupted her original goal of umting wealth to be the wealthiest individual. Without even realizing it, she let out a dismissive ¡°tsk¡± in her tone towards Su Bin.
But Su Bin swiftly responded earnestly, ¡°I¡¯m just used to it. Habits can be quite formidable, and I mentioned it casually.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen decided not to delve further into the topic of habits with Su Bin. She understood that she couldn¡¯t outwit him, so she relented. If he preferred things this way, so be it.
As Qin Zhenzhen reflected on how Su Bin had publicly embraced her earlier, she still felt a trace of anger. ¡°Tell me, why did you think we needed to put on a show in front of the old eunuch earlier?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s eyes betrayed a hint of concern as he posed a question, ¡°If the emperor were to take an interest in you, would you be willing to stay in the pce?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shot him a piercing re. ¡°Are you speaking nonsense? If I had any intention of entering the pce willingly, why would I be negotiating with you for a staged act?¡±
Su Bin countered, ¡°But the circumstances have changed. Back then, if you entered the pce, you¡¯d have been treated as a ything by the Jiang family, merely a pawn to be presented to the emperor.¡±
¡°Now, if you decide to stay in the pce as a legitimate concubine, there are no restrictions preventing you from having children. Besides, you would undoubtedly receive the emperor¡¯s favor¡¡±
¡°Su Bin, enough!¡± Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t tolerate it any longer.
¡°I want to know if you have some secret information, if you know something I don¡¯t, but all you¡¯re doing is thering nonsense!¡±
¡°I¡¯ll make it crystal clear to you once more, no matter what means I employ to stay in the pce, I¡¯m not interested!¡±
¡°I cherish the vast world beyond the pce walls. I enjoy earning my own ie. I savor a life free of constraints and full of joy!¡±
¡°My mind will never waver.¡±
¡°I refuse to relegate myself to the pce¡¯s inner circle, squabbling over a man with other women, regardless of who that man may be!¡±
Towards the end, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s emotions were running high.
It was as if she wereying her cards on the table for Su Bin. If he genuinely wanted to pursue a rtionship with her, he needed to understand that his affection should be reserved solely for her. Otherwise, he would be wasting his efforts and would ultimately jeopardize their harmony.
Su Bin naturallyprehended Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sentiments.
He contemted her words and realized that her perspective was entirely valid.
As a man from ancient times, he was well aware that having multiple wives and concubines was socially epted. However, since discovering the story of his father abandoning his family, he had grown averse to such half-heartedmitments.
If a man truly loved one woman, how could he allow a situation where a concubine schemed against the primary wife, leading to the main wife¡¯s child being cast aside?
This was precisely why Su Bin held a strong grudge against his former brother-inw, Wang Yizhi.
Even though his sister was now leading a content life, Su Bin had no intentions of forgiving Wang Yizhi. If he didn¡¯t exact revenge, he would never find peace..
Chapter 303 - 303: Unable to Pass Herself
Chapter 303 - 303: Unable to Pass Herself
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Observing Su Bin¡¯s contemtive expression, Qin Zhenzhen suspected that he disagreed with her earlier statements. Feeling a tinge of disappointment, she decided to address the issue:
¡°You don¡¯t have to dwell on my previous words. After all, our divorce is inevitable.¡±
¡°Once we¡¯re divorced, you can marry as many women as you please.¡±
Su Bin promptly conveyed his stance, saying, ¡°I wholeheartedly concur with you. Since we¡¯ve be husband and wife, both parties should remain
faithful. ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback, and then, somewhat embarrassed, she added, ¡°It¡¯s a positive sign that you share this perspective. In due course, you¡¯lle to appreciate the advantages of monogamy.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s refocus on the matter at hand. Why exactly did you suggest we put on a charade in front of the old eunuch earlier?¡±
It was clear that Qin Zhenzhen was steering the conversation in a different direction.
Su Bin set aside his thoughts and borated, ¡°I received information from the pce that the Emperor¡¯s interest in you has taken an inappropriate turn, more akin to primal desires.¡±
¡°Afterward, the Emperor protected both you and your grandmother¡¯s lives in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen Dowager, which has raised my concerns that he might intend to keep you in the pce.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen countered, ¡°The Emperor saved our lives before Her Majesty the Queen Dowager because I had saved his life.¡±
¡°I acknowledge that the way he looked at me was unsettling, but I noticed that he reverted to his normal demeanor afterward. He must have realized that I am a married woman.¡±
¡°As the leader of the nation, he naturally upholds stringent standards for women. Even if he harbored intentions toward a married woman, it would remain nothing more than intentions.¡±
¡°When ites to actual actions, they wouldn¡¯t dare cross that line.¡± Su Bin shook his head. ¡°You¡¯re only aware of half the story.¡±
¡°It¡¯s precisely because His Majesty knows you¡¯re a married woman that he withdrew his initial intentions. However, if he discovers that we didn¡¯t truly consummate our marriage, his thoughts may take a different turn.¡±
¡°What if he were to discover your unique constitution that could be of benefit to him? Do you think he might reconsider?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°Are you suggesting that my grandmother¡¯s eldest sister might reveal to the emperor that I possess a unique constitution?¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°Only the Jiang Family is aware of this special constitution within their lineage, and it has been kept a secret for quite some time. Using this secret as leverage with the emperor seems to be the only logical approach.¡±
¡°If she were to vividly describe the marvels of such a constitution to the emperor, I suspect he would be reluctant to let you go.¡±
¡°He might find a pretext to retain you within the pce, perhaps without officially recognizing you as a consort. This way, his reputation remains untarnished, yet he retains the mental satisfaction.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen furrowed her brows. ¡°So, what do we do then?¡±
This predicament had been weighing on her mind throughout their discussion.
Their primary reason for leaving the pce this time was to strategize with Su Bin on how to handle the emperor, that lecherous old man.
Su Bin also appeared troubled. ¡°Merely putting on a facade in front of the old eunuch won¡¯t be sufficient to avert the crisis. I do have a n that might prove useful, but¡
Qin Zhenzhen inquired urgently, ¡°What is your n? Don¡¯t keep me in suspense. It¡¯s quite distressing!¡±
Only then did Su Bin reveal, ¡°Then let¡¯s proceed with the charade. What if we were to spend the night together tonight?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face flushed crimson. ¡°Absolutely not!¡±
Su Bin was definitely trying to sneak a peek at her beauty!
Despite his undeniable charm, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to engage in such an intimate act before they had truly formed a deep connection..
Chapter 304 - 304: Treasure Girl
Chapter 304 - 304: Treasure Girl
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s rejection, Su Bin hastily rified, ¡°We did indeed spend the night together, but it was a staged bridal chamber. Nothing intimate urred between us.¡±
¡°If you¡¯re ufortable with it, then let¡¯s forget about this n. I¡¯lle up with an alternative.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s face reddened, and he felt a touch of embarrassment, contemting making a quick exit from this awkward situation.
However, Qin Zhenzhen caught his arm. ¡°Never mind, I¡¯ll go along with your suggestion.¡±
As a modern woman, she couldn¡¯t cling to outdated norms of ancient times.
Furthermore, Su Bin¡¯s proposed n seemed to have merit.
Qin Zhenzhen had even devised a n. The following morning, before returning to the pce with the old eunuch, she intended to create conspicuous ¡°love bites¡± on her body. This way, it would be evident to others that she and Su Bin had indeed consummated their marriage the previous night.
At noon, Su Bin received a message and hurriedly sought out Qin Zhenzhen.
He informed her, ¡°The emperor met with your grandmother¡¯s eldest sister.¡± Qin Zhenzhen was anxious. ¡°What did she say?
¡°It¡¯s just as we suspected,¡± Su Bin replied. ¡°She informed the emperor that you possess a unique constitution that has been lost within the Jiang Family for generations.¡±
¡°After the Jiang Family discovered your existence, they attempted to secretly abduct you back, initially sending you to the pce with a different identity to benefit the Jiang Family. However, their n failed.¡±
¡°The Jiang Family was unwilling to give up and dispatched a second group to capture you. However, it was at this point that my true identity was exposed, causing the Jiang Family to hesitate and refrain from challenging the Marquis Mansion, fearing a public scandal.¡±
¡°Subsequently, you established a workshop and a shop, quickly gaining fame. The Jiang Family had no choice but to employ a different approach, attempting to entice you back to serve their interests.¡±
¡°But you weren¡¯t willing, and so the Jiang Family resorted to a sinister n.
They arranged for you to enter the pce to treat Her Majesty the Queen Dowager¡¯s headache, aiming to coerce you into gaining favor with them. Little did they know, you saw through their scheme,¡± Su Bin recounted.
He continued, ¡°She provided a clear ount of the sequence of events. I believe the emperor was persuaded by her, which is why he ultimately spared her life.¡±
¡°In addition, she described in great detail the characteristics and mystical qualities of women with unique constitutions within the Jiang Family.¡±
¡°She even mentioned that women with these special physiques emit a distinctive body fragrance that can only be perceived up close. It brings a sense of refreshment, and the food they prepare is exceptionally delicious. Moreover, the pills they concoct possess remarkable effects.¡±
Su Bin ryed the contents of the secret letter, concluding with a fabricated detail, ¡°She mentioned this unique body fragrance.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expression shifted. ¡°Did she truly mention the unique body fragrance?¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°That¡¯s what the letter stated.¡±
¡°I sense that you¡¯ve used something to mask your body fragrance.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expression grew even more uneasy. ¡°You¡ you smelled my body fragrance?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s cheeks reddened. ¡°I think I caught a whiff of it when we were close that day. Reflecting on it now, I felt remarkably invigorated.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face burned with embarrassment. She had indeed been careless. Had she known, she would have strictly prohibited Su Bin from getting so close to her.
Unbeknownst to her, Su Bin had used this ruse to coax her into revealing the truth.
In reality, when she didn¡¯t allow the spiritual water to overflow, her body fragrance was exceedingly faint. Ordinary people wouldn¡¯t detect it.
Due to her long-term blindness, Granny Qin¡¯s sense of smell had be particrly acute, allowing her to perceive the subtle fragrance.
Seeing that Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t deny it, Su Bin felt a sense of satisfaction. His little wife, as it turned out, was quite extraordinary a piece of treasure..
Chapter 305 - 305: She Won’t Lose
Chapter 305 - 305: She Won¡¯t Lose
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen harbored an intense loathing for that elderly woman.
Forty years ago, she had inflicted harm upon her grandmother, and now, four decadester, she had returned to cause trouble once more.
¡°I¡¯ll fetch the spices,¡± Qin Zhenzhen dered.
She jotted down the required herbs on a piece of paper and instructed her fourth brother to purchase them. Afterward, she meticulously dried the herbs and ground them into a fine powder, creating fragrant powder.
This fragrant powder required a delicate bnce. When ced among clothing, the fragrance couldn¡¯t be overpowering; it had to be subtle yet refreshing. To achieve this effect, Qin Zhenzhen even added a touch of spiritual water. Taking the powder to Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen applied some to him.
¡°Take a whiff of your clothing now. Do you feel refreshed?¡±
Su Binplied and nodded. ¡°I do feel a slight refreshment, though it¡¯s not as pure as your natural fragrance.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shot him an exasperated nce. This mischievous streak in him was quite something.
She couldn¡¯t believe she hadn¡¯t noticed Su Bin¡¯s yful side while reading earlier.
That night, Su Bin received yet another secret letter. This time, he handed it over to Qin Zhenzhen.
Upon opening it, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t decide whether tough or cry.
The old lecher, the Emperor, was indeed insatiable and wished to maintain his lofty image. It turned out that he had an idiosyncratic fixation. He only desired women who met an extremely specific criterion ¨C absolute virginity.
No wonder his gaze had been so peculiar when he looked at her that day.
The secret letter also disclosed that the Emperor initially harbored doubts regarding the words of the elderly woman from the Jiang family. Consequently, he refrained from immediately summoning her to the pce.
Instead, he personally interrogated several elders from the Jiang family, and their responses corroborated the elderly woman¡¯s ount. It was only then that he chose to believe her.
Moreover, the Emperor unearthed another piece of information. It revealed that she had been wed to Su Bin against her will. Initially, Su Bin had declined to consummate their marriage.
Despite the improvement in their rtionship, there was the possibility that they hadn¡¯t yet shared a bedroom. This was due to the fact that their rooms were separate in Meijiang Prefecture City.
As a result, the peculiar Emperor intended to dispatch someone to their residence that night to ascertain whether she and Su Bin would indeed share a bed.
Qin Zhenzhen nced at Su Bin with a perplexed expression. ¡°Why is the Emperor acting so strangely?¡±
Su Bin remainedposed. ¡°People in high positions often have entricities. We must put on a convincing performance for him.¡±
Thankfully, the Emperor was known to be fastidious about cleanliness, which simplified matters.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°Do you believe that we can deceive him by merely sleeping in the same bed without doing anything?¡±
¡°That won¡¯t suffice. We need to do something.¡±
¡°Something?¡±
¡°Something¡
Su Bin suddenly blushed and handed Qin Zhenzhen a small notebook.
¡°Take a look for yourself. Feel free to ask if you have any questions.¡±
Curiosity piqued, Qin Zhenzhen opened the notebook.
To her astonishment, it contained an explicit illustration!
She hastily closed the notebook and was about to scold Su Bin, but she realized that he had already left the room.
Qin Zhenzhen grappled with her emotions. While she wished to disregard the Emperor¡¯s intrusive investigation, she was also gued by the fear that if her rtionship with Su Bin was exposed, she would be confined within the pce by thescivious old Emperor.
That would result in an even greater setback.
Upon careful consideration, Qin Zhenzhen concluded that rather than enduring the unwanted advances of the lecherous old Emperor and facing confinement within the pce, she¡¯d rather maintain the facade of intimacy with Su Bin.
After all, Su Bin¡¯s appearance easily outshone that of the old pervert. He was like fresh meat, still youthful and unspoiled. He was an original, and she wouldn¡¯t be at a disadvantage.
With a resolute expression, Qin Zhenzhen reopened her notebook.
Having lived two lifetimes without experiencing such moments, she figured it was best to get a clear understanding..
Chapter 306 - 306: Everything Goes with Plan
Chapter 306 - 306: Everything Goes with n
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen opened her petite notebook and meticulously examined the illustrations. She even perused the annotations beside each image. Her face turned as red as a ripe tomato.
Nevertheless, she encouraged herself, dismissing it as nothing significant.
She simply needed to prepare a contraceptive potion for herself. At a mere 15 years old, bearing a child would be a considerable hassle.
However, Qin Zhenzhen noticed a note on thest page¡ªa message from Su Bin.
As she read the note, embarrassment washed over her, and she wished for a convenient hiding spot.
Fortunately, Su Bin wasn¡¯t present to witness her mortification; otherwise, she would have felt utterly foolish.
Su Bin¡¯s note read: The purpose of sharing these images is to acquaint you with the process. When you performter, it will appear more convincing.
The emphasis had always been on staging a performance, and she had mistakenly interpreted it as a staged performance.
Later that night, Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen entered the same room. Su Bin and Qin Silong exchanged surprised nces.
¡°Hehe. It seems like I¡¯ll be an uncle soon. You¡¯re in line to be an uncle too.¡±
Laughter filled the air as they teased Su Bin about finally being intimate with Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Silong, however, dampened their enthusiasm. ¡°Don¡¯t celebrate prematurely. They might just be discussing something. They¡¯lle out soon.¡±
¡°That¡¯s impossible. They¡¯ve been discussing it all day. They¡¯ve finally made up their minds. Hehe!¡±
Qin Silong turned away, paying no further attention to the teasing.
Witnessing the girl and Su Bin actually preparing to sleep together left him struggling toe to terms with the situation.
They might be putting on a show, or they might be putting on a show.
Sigh, since his sister had agreed, as her brother, he could only wish them well.
In the room, the lights were still on. Su Bin looked very calm and broke the silence first. ¡°Um, is there anything you don¡¯t understand?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen asked him back, ¡°Did you understand everything?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s face was a little hot, but he pretended to be calm. ¡°There are pictures and annotations. It¡¯s not difficult for me.¡¯
Qin Zhenzhen deliberately asked him, ¡°If I don¡¯t understand, can you teach
Su Bin braced himself and asked, ¡°Is there anything you don¡¯t understand?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was also stunned. She actually said, ¡°I don¡¯t understand anything. Can you exin it to me from the beginning to the end?¡±
Su Bin instantly frowned, feeling a little helpless. ¡°This¡ this is a little troublesome.¡±
He clearly did not want to exin these things to Qin Zhenzhen, but he had clearly said that he could ask him if he did not understand.
Qin Zhenzhen looked at Su Bin¡¯s dilemma and suddenly wanted tough.
No matter how naughty he was, he was still a seventeen-year-old boy.
Forget it, let¡¯s not waste any more time. If we don¡¯t go to bed soon, the people sent by that old pervert might all be here.
Qin Zhenzhen suddenly blew out the light. ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. Let¡¯s go to bed.¡±
As she spoke, she took off her coat and got into bed.
After dawdling for a while, Su Bin also got into bed.
The two of them remained silent as time slowly passed.
Perhaps because the lights were off, Su Bin became a little bolder. He whispered, ¡°When theyeter, I¡¯ll follow the actions in those pictures and fake it. You just have to make some sounds.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen kept her mouth shut.
Su Bin asked softly, ¡°Do you know what kind of sound it makes?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen still kept her mouth shut. It was really embarrassing to imagine the scer.
Su Bin thought that she really did not understand and was about to tell her what to do in a low voice.
At this time, a man¡¯s voice came from outside the window.
¡°Young Master, they¡¯re here..¡±
Chapter 307 - 307: They Can ‘t Act Anymore
Chapter 307 - 307: They Can ¡®t Act Anymore
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The individual who arrived was the trusted aide dispatched by the Emperor.
Contemting the forting actions, Su Bin remained somewhat nervous.
Nevertheless, hepelled himself to maintainposure. ¡°Understood. We will proceed as nned.¡±
He instructed his guards to ensure that Qin Silong and Su Ping remained restrained, pretending they hadn¡¯t noticed anyone entering.
They were to refrain from intervening or causing amotion prematurely.
Qin Silong, who was unusually vignt, sensed the presence outside the house. Just as he intended to investigate, Su Bin¡¯s undercover agent halted him and handed over a note written by Su Bin.
The agent also signaled for him to remain silent.
Upon perusing the note, Qin Silongprehended that Su Bin and his sister were continuing their charade as a married couple.
¡°Lecher!¡± Qin Silong couldn¡¯t help but mutter.
In his dreams, he envisioned the Emperor being reced in the uing winter.
Now, the Eighth Imperial Uncle, who had taken the Emperor¡¯s ce, had already been incarcerated in the Heaven Prison.
He couldn¡¯t help but harbor thoughts about His Highness the Crown Prince.
Muttering with a touch of disdain, he wished, ¡°May thisscivious Emperor be reced by his own offspring as soon as possible, preferably in theing winter!¡±
The two ck-d individuals sent by the Emperor initially eavesdropped from the rooftop, tuning into the voices emanating from within the room. ¡°Wife, I haven¡¯t seen you in the past few days. I¡¯ve missed you terribly.¡±
¡°Oh,e on. I¡¯m right here. What¡¯s the rush?¡±
¡°Look at me, how could I not be eager?¡±
¡°Why are you shouting so loudly? Are you worried they won¡¯t hear you? You¡¯ve got some nerve!¡±
Subsequently, their voices lowered, rendering them inaudible.
In a synchronized motion, the two ck-d men signaled to each other and leaped into the courtyard simultaneously.
Both were highly skilled martial artists, entering the courtyard without a sound.
They tore the paper covering the window and peered inside. Although the room was shrouded in darkness, and they could only discern silhouettes, they witnessed the ¡°amorous scene¡± unfolding within.
Engrossed in their voyeuristic pursuit, Su Bin¡¯s undercover guard sensed that it was an opportune moment. He gestured for Qin Silong to awaken and urinate, also creating a sound to startle the two intruders.
Appearing would be inconvenient for Su Bin¡¯s secret guard, as Su Bin was still feigning the role of a frail schr.
In line with Su Bin¡¯s strategy, Qin Silong simted waking up in the middle of the night, prompted by the sound of the door creaking open. Upon hearing this, the two ck-d men hastily scaled the wall and returned to the pce to make their report.
As Qin Silong overheard the sounds from the room, his face reddened, and he hurriedly retreated to his own quarters.
He wondered if the two inside had genuinely engaged in such activities. The voices sounded somewhat peculiar.
While the room continued with its ruse, Su Bin¡¯s undercover guard briefly hesitated. The authenticity of those sounds gave him pause.
If it was indeed a staged performance, wouldn¡¯t he jeopardize his master¡¯s n by reporting it prematurely?
After weighing the pros and cons, the secret guard decided not to immediately inform Su Bin that the two ck-d men had departed.
The upants of the room found themselves rather perplexed.
Could the individual sent by the Emperor be equally entric?
They had observed the spectacle for an extended duration. Why hadn¡¯t the interlopers departed?
The issue was that they couldn¡¯t sustain their act any longer.
Eventually, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s patience wore thin, prompting her to push Su Bin away.
In her vexation, her strength nearly sent Su Bin tumbling under the bed. As the room fell silent, Su Bin¡¯s undercover guard approached. ¡°Young Master, they have left.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin breathed sighs of relief.
Thankfully, they had vacated the premises. Otherwise, their ruse might have been exposed.
This particr charade had proven to be exceedingly challenging to maintain..
Chapter 308 - 308: Better to Die
Chapter 308 - 308: Better to Die
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The two of them remained silent for a prolonged period. Su Bin whispered, didn¡¯t intend for that to happen, and I couldn¡¯t control it¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen quickly interrupted him. ¡°Stop talking. I understand!¡±
Her earlier frustration had dissipated, and she nowprehended Su Bin¡¯s predicament. In reality, having such a reaction was perfectly normal; it would be abnormal if he didn¡¯t.
As Qin Zhenzhen prepared to leave the bed, Su Bin halted her. ¡°Stay here. I¡¯ll go to the study.¡±
With that, he swiftly donned his attire and departed.
Once Su Bin had left, Qin Zhenzhen let out a long sigh.
She realized that she needed to reassess her rtionship with Su Bin.
She could sense that Su Bin had struggled to prevent any further actions during their earlier encounter. Perhaps he hadn¡¯t anticipated such a situation arising.
Yet, he hadn¡¯t taken advantage of the moment and had even offered an apology.
His respect for her might stem from his feelings for her, starting long before this scenario unfolded.
Otherwise, since she was his wife in name, he had no need to exercise restraint in the first ce.
Su Bin, the rogue, appeared to be growing more honorable with each passing day.
Perhaps it was worth her while to attempt to reciprocate his feelings.
Su Bin reclined on the small study bed, gently touching his flushed face. He couldn¡¯t help but wear a foolish grin.
Though it was a fabricated performance, it had evoked a unique sensation within him.
Just now, he had made an important decision.
In this life, he was going to stick to Qin Zhenzhen forever!
The two ck-d men returned to the pce and delivered their report to the Emperor.
They provided a detailed ount of Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s conversations and actions.
Upon hearing their report, the Emperor¡¯s expression soured.
It appeared that the rumors were baseless!
The two of them had already engaged in activities befitting a married couple long ago. He found it unbelievable that they had not consummated their marriage yet.
Only a fool would choose separate rooms when sharing a space with such a beautiful and alluring woman.
Meanwhile, Su Bin had devised a method to ry the information to someone who would inform the Empress Dowager about Grandma Qin¡¯s eldest sister being alive.
He also made sure that the news of the Emperor¡¯s visit to the prison to interrogate the elderly woman, along with his promise to spare her life, reached the Empress Dowager¡¯s ears.
In fact, the Empress Dowager had her ownwork of spies within the Heaven Prison.
She connected the information she had gathered with what Su Bin had provided, forming a narrative that differed slightly from the truth.
In her version of events, Grandma Qin¡¯s eldest sister had ulterior motives. She imed to have revealed the secret due to her resentment toward the Emperor for annihting the entire Jiang family and toward the Empress Dowager for attempting to silence her. Supposedly, she aimed to exact revenge on the Imperial Family and the Empress Dowager.
While the legend of the Jiang family¡¯s woman with a special constitution was widely known, she asserted that it was a fact. She also insisted that Qin Zhenzhen, despite her close rtionship with Su Bin, had not yet consummated her marriage.
Her objective was to incite the Emperor to separate the couple and coerce Qin Zhenzhen into bing a concubine within the pce.
Such an urrence would not only subject the Emperor to criticism from both civil and military officials but also stoke the mes of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hatred.
Given Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s temperament, she might seek revenge, resort to poisoning, or even opt for a joint demise.
The Empress Dowager, consumed by anger, immediately dispatched someone to the Heaven Prison to sever the old woman¡¯s tongue to prevent further utterances of falsehoods.
Since the Emperor had agreed to spare her life, her life would indeed be spared. However, her future existence promised to be a fate worse than death.
As anticipated, upon awakening with her tongue severed, she pounded her head against the cell wall.
In her eyes, falling into the clutches of the Empress Dowager would be tantamount to choosing death..
Chapter 309 - 309: Indeed Good Things
Chapter 309 - 309: Indeed Good Things
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The next day, Qin Zhenzhen was brought back to the pce.
The old eunuch immediately reported the process of bringing Qin Zhenzhen back to the emperor.
¡°Your Majesty, when I went to fetch Miss Qin, she seemed to have just woken up.¡±
¡°Miss Qin looks a little tired. She was dozing all the way in the carriage.¡±
¡°I also saw several¡ obvious marks on Miss Qin¡¯s neck.¡±
The Emperor had already received the report from the two men in ck. When he heard what the old eunuch said, he did not want to hear it.
He waved his hand to dismiss the old eunuch.
At this moment, another person came to report that the Empress Dowager had sent someone to cut off the tongue of that woman from the Jiang family. Then, that womanmitted suicide.
The Emperor frowned. He did not expect his mother to be so well-informed.
His mother was still as ruthless as ever.
He waved his hand to dismiss the person reporting.
However, he heard someone shout from outside, ¡°The Empress Dowager has arrived!¡±
The Emperor¡¯s expression changed. Was his mother here to criticize him or mock him?
The Empress Dowager had brought Qin Zhenzhen with her.
The Emperor looked at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s neck and saw that there were indeed traces of a fierce kiss.
She had deliberately pulled up her cor, but it was still faintly visible.
This time, the emperor no longer had any doubts.
He was obsessed with women. Seeing this scene, he temporarily put away his previous thoughts.
The Empress Dowager saw the change in the Emperor¡¯s expression and finally felt relieved.
She thought that the emperor was still rational.
However, the Emperor did not forget that Qin Zhenzhen was a girl with a special physique. There was a special fragrance on her body that could only be smelled at close range. It could make one feel refreshed.
The Empress Dowager appeared to grasp the Emperor¡¯s thoughts and instructed Qin Zhenzhen to examine his pulse, facilitating their closeness. ¡°Miss Qin, please check the Emperor¡¯s pulse and confirm if it is normal.¡± ¡°Of course,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied.
She bent down and walked toward the Emperor, while a eunuch provided her with a stool for better ess.
During the pulse examination, the Emperor instinctively leaned closer to Qin Zhenzhen, allowing him to be nearer to her.
As expected, he detected a fragrance that invigorated him, and his excitement grew. The old woman from the Jiang family hadn¡¯t misled him; there was indeed something unique about Qin Zhenzhen.
If she truly possessed a special constitution, he contemted making an exception and taking her as a concubine. This way, he could maximize her usefulness to him.
Uponpleting the pulse reading, Qin Zhenzhen promptly withdrew.
¡°His Majesty¡¯s pulse is stable, and he is in good health,¡± she reported, adding, ¡°However, it seems the Emperor didn¡¯t sleep wellst night.¡±
The Emperor felt a twinge of irritation. He hadn¡¯t slept well because he had stayed upte waiting for news. Unfortunately, it had been unfavorable news, keeping him awake throughout most of the night.
Qin Zhenzhen retrieved a small bottle from her possession.
¡°I have some special fragrance powder here, infused with Immortal Pill essence, making it particrly effective.¡±
¡°During the day, it can offer a refreshing sensation, while at night, it facilitates quick and restful sleep.¡±
She handed over the small porcin bottle to the Emperor.
An eunuch near the Emperor opened the bottle cap and presented it to him for a whiff. The Emperor recognized that the fragrance matched that of Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen produced another small bottle and presented it to the Empress Dowager.
¡°Empress Dowager, I only have two and a half bottles of this incense left. I¡¯m rather attached to it, and I didn¡¯t bring it with me when I left the pce.¡±
¡°I happened to bring it with me yesterday when I left the pce.¡±
¡°If you find it pleasing, I¡¯d be honored to give you thisst bottle.¡±
The Empress Dowager¡¯s attendant also uncorked the bottle for the Empress
Dowager to sample.
¡°This is truly exceptional. I ept it with gratitude..¡±
Chapter 310 - 310: I Think Qin Zhenzhen Didn’t Lie to Him
Chapter 310: I Think Qin Zhenzhen Didn¡¯t Lie to Him
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Oin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°You can also ce some of this Dowder in a sachet and carry it with you. The fragrance willst for two months.¡±
¡°If stored in a sealed porcin bottle, it can remain fresh for three to five years.¡±
¡°If Your Majesty harbors any doubts regarding this fragrance powder, I can write down the formter and have the imperial physicians examine it.¡±
¡°This powder is beneficial to people.¡±
The Emperor decided, ¡°I will ept it as well.¡±
Even the scent had been manipted? That woman from the Jiang family was truly treacherous!
Nevertheless, the Emperor wasn¡¯t giving up. He proposed, ¡°I¡¯ve heard that your culinary skills are exceptional. How about you prepare lunch for me and the Empress Dowager?¡±
He believed that if the food she prepared genuinely possessed a unique taste, he would find a way to retain her.
Qin Zhenzhen secretly cursed the Emperor and his ancestors while maintaining her respectful facade.
¡°Your Majesty, my culinary skills are, in reality, quite ordinary. The acim surrounding my cooking is primarily attributed to the seasonings I create.¡± As she spoke, Qin Zhenzhen extracted a small porcin bottle.
¡°Your Majesty, Empress Dowager, I actually added a trace of Immortal Pill to the seasonings I create to enhance the freshness of the dishes.¡±
¡°While I only incorporate a minute amount of Immortal Pill into the seasonings I sell, the effects are truly remarkable.¡±
The Emperor and the Empress Dowager exchanged a nce, taken aback by the mention of another ¡°Immortal Pill.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found the situation amusing.
To maintain her ruse, she waspelled to fabricate a miraculous substance like Immortal Pill.
She continued to describe the effects of the ¡°Immortal Pill¡± as if they were the effects of her spirit water, skillfully weaving the deception.
In any case, the ¡°Immortal Pill¡± she presented had been specially crafted and modified by her, ensuring that its true nature remained concealed.
Qin Zhenzhen pressed on with her exnation.
¡°I willbine the remaining third of the ¡®Immortal Pill¡¯ with other ingredients, grinding it into a powder. This main ingredient amounts to about two catties.¡±
¡°Do not underestimate these two catties of seasoning. They can actually yield nearly 10,000 catties of condiments, as just a small portion of the ten catties of seasoning is required.¡±
The Emperor and the Empress Dowager exchanged nces once more.
A third of an Immortal Pill could produce ten thousand catties of seasoning?
It was crucial to note that her seasonings were sold for twenty wen each.
Qin Zhenzhen elevated the small porcin bottle she held. ¡°The seasoning within this little bottle is meticulously infused with the main ingredient, resulting in a much more potent effectpared to those avable in the market.¡±
¡°It is an honor for me to prepare a meal for the Emperor and the Empress
Dowager.¡±
¡°Later, I will use this seasoning to cook a meal for both of you, and we can also have the imperial chefs sample it.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had already elucidated her points clearly. There was little room for the Emperor to object. Consequently, he resolved toply with her suggestion, allowing the imperial chefs in the pce kitchen to experiment with her seasoning.
In reality, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s condiments had already been introduced into the pce kitchen. Before utilizing them, she had the seasonings thoroughly examined by the Imperial Hospital¡¯s physicians to verify their harmlessness.
A sumptuous lunch filled the table.
Some were made by Qin Zhenzhen herself, and some were made by the imperial chefs of the imperial kitchen.
Qin Zhenzhen was not entitled to dine alongside the Emperor and the Empress, so she observed them as they sampled her creations from the sidelines.
The Emperor sampled each dish meticulously. The dishes prepared using Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s seasoning indeed possessed a heightened vorpared to their previous iterations.
However, upon closer examination, he couldn¡¯t deny that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s culinary skills fell slightly short of the Imperial Kitchen¡¯s standard..
Chapter 311 - 311: Confirmed to Be Fake
Chapter 311: Confirmed to Be Fake
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen used two bottles of fragrant powder and a bottle of special seasoning to finally convince the Emperor.
She wanted him to believe that the ims of that woman from the Jiang family couldn¡¯t be trusted. She was not a woman with a special physique, and the fragrance on her body was merely the result of the fragrance powder she concocted. Her culinary skills appeared superior because she had added ¡°Immortal Pill¡± to her seasonings.
Once the Empress Dowager obtained Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s fragrance powder and form, she would surely bring them to Imperial Physician Yang for immediate testing.
Imperial Physician Yang¡¯s evaluation confirmed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ims. He stated, ¡°Miss Qin¡¯s formbination is wless, and the use of this type of fragrance powder is not unprecedented. What sets it apart is the inclusion of Immortal Pill.¡±
¡°Our imperial physicians have conducted thorough tests. Miss Qin mentioned that she added Immortal Pill pills, fragrance powder, and seasonings. All the ingredients align with what is documented for the production of Immortal Pill in our records.¡±
¡°It appears that there is indeed an Immortal Pill in existence.¡±
Upon hearing Imperial Physician Yang¡¯s confirmation, the Empress Dowager¡¯s desire for Immortal Pill intensified. She promptly increased the reward for the ¡°Immortal Pill¡± to 100 additional gold coins on the posted notice.
Qin Zhenzhen was ted upon learning of this development. That night, she penned a letter to Su Bin, instructing him to execute the n she had previously taught him to obtain the two Immortal Pills.
Su Bin enlisted a young man from Meijiang Prefecture City for the task and sent him to Renhe Hall in the capital. This man carried a homemade wooden box and imed to be a neer from Meijiang Prefecture City, seeking refuge with rtives and friends in the capital while searching for job opportunities.
Unfortunately, the young man¡¯s rtives and friends in the capital ran small businesses and had no connections to high-ranking officials or nobles. They struggled to make ends meet and couldn¡¯t help him secure a job. After nearly a month in the capital, he had not only failed to find employment but had also faced disdain and rejection.
Feeling disheartened, he began to contemte returning to Meijiang Prefecture City.
However, one day, he overheard a conversation about the imperial physicians in the pce offering a reward for information about the elusive ¡°Immortal Pill¡± from ordinary citizens. The descriptions of the pill¡¯s effects bore some resemnce to the two treasures he had discovered in Mt. Daling.
He hesitated to disclose the valuable items he had found, fearing it might lead to trouble. Instead, he decided to consult the Benevolence Hall, seeking guidance from the physicians there.
A physician from Renhe Hall, however, disyed impatience and promptly dismissed him, asserting, ¡°Quit daydreaming! Immortal Pills are exceedingly rare. How could you stumble upon them so easily?¡±
¡°No need to show me. I can tell the nts in your wooden box are ordinary!¡±
The reason for the physician¡¯s gruff attitude was rooted in the notice disyed at the entrance of Renhe Hall. It stipted that anyone in possession of such a valuable medicinal herb should first have it identified by a Renhe Hall doctor before being referred to the Imperial Hospital.
Since the notice¡¯s posting, numerous individuals hade forward with ornate wooden boxes, only to reveal unfamiliar and clearly non-Immortal Pill herbs inside. The doctors at Renhe Hall had grown weary of these fruitless visits.
The young man¡¯s appearance was unrefined, and his wooden box was crudely made. His demeanor gave no indication that he might possess a genuine treasure, further diminishing the doctors¡¯ interest in examining its contents. They were convinced it was a fake thing..
Chapter 312 - 312: Mishandled
Chapter 312 - 312: Mishandled
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Coincidentally, Imperial Physician Yang and another imperial physician happened to be passing by Renhe Hall and witnessed the young man being forcibly chased out.
The frustrated young man, upon spotting Imperial Physician Yang and the others, loudly voiced his protest. ¡°You dismissed me without even examining my wooden box! What if it contains the Immortal Pill you¡¯re seeking? It won¡¯t take much time to have a look!¡±
He grumbled angrily and prepared to depart, but Imperial Physician Yang intervened. ¡°Open the wooden box and let me see its contents.¡±
Reluctantly, the young man replied, ¡°The item inside my wooden box emits a distinct fragrance that may escape when I open it.¡±
Imperial Physician Yang maintained his patience. ¡°I only wish to take a brief look.¡±
With a sigh, the young man approached Imperial Physician Yang and gingerly opened the box. As soon as Imperial Physician Yangid eyes on its contents, his expression brightened. It was unmistakably the Immortal Pill depicted by Qin Zhenzhen.
The resemnce was uncanny!
¡°Let me smell it again!¡±
Imperial Physician Yang seized the wooden box and sniffed its contents repeatedly before allowing his colleague to partake in the experience.
Both physicians wore expressions of sheer delight.
This fragrance was truly exceptional!
Initially invigorating, it created an increasingly euphoric sensation after prolonged exposure.
There was no doubt; this was the Immortal Pill.
¡°Young man! You might be on the verge of a fortune!¡± eximed Imperial Physician Yang.
The young man was equally astonished. ¡°Are you truly saying these are Immortal Pills?¡±
Imperial Physician Yang responded, ¡°It¡¯s highly probable!¡±
¡°First, tell us, where did you acquire these two herbs?¡±
The young man recounted his discovery. He hailed from Meijiang Prefecture City and asionally ventured into the mountains with friends for hunting. The two stalks of grass had been found on Mount Daling. Although he couldn¡¯t identify them, the captivating aroma led him to collect and dry them.
Remarkably, the fragrance became even more alluring after drying. He had consulted several elderly locals, but none recognized the nt. Even the local apothecaries failed to identify it. Yet, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to discard them and thus crafted a wooden box to seal the herbs. Upon arriving in the capital, he had been so engrossed in searching for employment that he forgot about the herbs until overhearing others discuss the Immortal Pill.
Subsequently, he realized that the two herbs he held were likely what was being sought ording to the notice. However, when he presented his wooden box to the doctor at Renhe Hall, the man swiftly dismissed him without a second nce.
By now, the doctors at Renhe Hall were sweating profusely. The coarse wooden box clutched by the rustic young man concealed what could be an equivalent to the Immortal Pill¡ªperhaps even the real thing! Observing Imperial Physician Yang and the others¡¯ expressions, the doctor at Renhe Hall could ascertain that these were indeed Immortal Pills.
Imperial Physician Yang settled the young man down and hurriedly returned to the pce with the wooden box.
He showed it to Qin Zhenzhen and the Empress Dowager.
Qin Zhenzhen was overjoyed when she saw this. ¡°It¡¯s them, they are Immortal Pills!¡±
Then, she pretended to be heartbroken.
¡°This guy is really reckless. He didn¡¯t handle it properly!¡±
¡°But you can¡¯t me him. He¡¯s not a physician. He doesn¡¯t know how to use precious herbs, and he can¡¯t put them under the sun. The best way is to dry them in the shade..¡±
Chapter 313 - 313: Official Notice
Chapter 313 - 313: Official Notice
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°However, the Immortal Pill is an entity akin to an immortal herb. Even if it
has been exposed to sunlight, its effects are still incredibly potent,¡±
¡°When you use it, double the amount.¡±
The Empress Dowager experienced mixed emotions¡ªshe was thrilled to have finally located the Immortal Pill, yet devastated by the thought that improper handling had diminished its medicinal properties.
Likewise, the imperial physicians at the Imperial Hospital were overjoyed. They had finally discovered the Immortal Pill, avoiding the perilous journey into the depths of Mt. Daling. Now, they could promptly ascertain the true efficacy of the Immortal Pill.
The Imperial Physician Hospital had issued a notice. It was written clearly in ck and white, asking for ¡°Immortal Pill¡± with a thousand gold and a hundred gold.
Imperial Physician Yang had publicly epted the wooden box in front of the gathering witnesses, making it impossible for the pce to renege on their offer.
Before long, a chest filled with gold was transported from the pce to the Renhe Hall. In ancient times, one catty equated to 16 liang. A thousand taels, therefore, amounted to a thousand liang, which tranted to roughly 60 catties. Adding another 100 catties of gold, the total was 160 catties of gold. It was a truly remarkable spectacle.
The crowd swelled around Renhe Hall, everyone eager to catch a glimpse of the fortunate individual behind this windfall. Some sought to gain knowledge about the appearance of the Immortal Pill and where it could be found. A few even brought their unmarried daughters, hoping for a prompt betrothal.
Marrying into a wealthy family remained a cherished dream for many women.
The bystanders initially assumed that this young man from the countryside would be easy to influence, but to their astonishment, he remained out of sight.
Even though the gold was transported to the Benevolence Hall, the banks managers, ountants, and couriers arrived in their carriage. Rumor had it they were there to facilitate the gold¡¯s transport.
The young man believed that carrying gold was conspicuous and requested to exchange it all for banknotes. The bank staff obligingly loaded the box containing the gold onto their carriage and departed.
Despite the departure of the goldden carriage, the spectators remained, eagerly anticipating the young man¡¯s appearance.
At this juncture, a government bailiff arrived to post a notice. The notice warned people about the perils of venturing into the depths of Mount Daling, including ferocious beasts, venomous snakes, and toxic fumes. It cautioned that the Immortal Pill was a rare discovery, not worth risking one¡¯s life for, and that the high price offered by the royal pce was justified.
The Empress Dowager had taken heed of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s advice and had the officials draft the notice. Qin Zhenzhen reasoned, ¡°Without this notice, more and more people will flock to Mount Daling in search of the Immortal Pill.
Many will lose their lives in the process.¡±
The Immortal Pill was a precious, mythical object. If the area around Mount Daling became a burial ground for adventurers, the Pill itself might disappear from the mountain.
Most people, after reading the notice, abandoned their quest for the Immortal Pill. However, there remained a few persistent individuals who believed in their own luck.
These resolute souls had never set eyes on the Immortal Pill nor possessed an image to guide their search.
His only hope was to meet the young man and ask him about it.
However, they did not see him in person from the beginning to the end.
The young man got someone to distribute arge basket of copper coins outside. While everyone was snatching the money, and he took the carriage and left..
Chapter 314 - 314: Left Last Night
Chapter 314 - 314: Left Last Night
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Empress Dowager harbored deep suspicions regarding the young man¡¯s true identity. She believed he might be Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s associate, and together they were orchestrating a scheme to defraud the royal family of their gold.
Secretly, she dispatched agents to tail the young man, who, as it turned out, did return to his family.
His family and friends resided in a destitute area in the northern part of the capital. The alley leading to their abode was narrow and lengthy, bustling with constant activity.
The agents maintained vignce at one end of the alley, while two others remained focused on the door the young man had entered. Their intent was to covertly follow him once he reemerged, thereby verifying any potential connection to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s organization.
However, they waited a full day and night without witnessing the young man¡¯s reappearance. By the third morning, their patience was wearing thin when a cacophony of metallic ngs erupted in the alley.
¡°Attention, everyone! Listen up! The big brother who sold the Immortal Pill the day before yesterday and struck it rich has graciously shared his wealth with us underprivileged folks! ¡±
Trailing behind this proimer were five or six young men.
In response to this news, the inhabitants of the alley rushed out, their faces alight with curiosity.
¡°Is it true? Can it be?¡±
¡°Could there really be such a fortuitous event?¡±
No one could resist the allure of good fortune, even if it meant obtaining a handful of copper coins, which could still secure two substantial meat buns.
¡°Let me tell you all, it¡¯s absolutely legitimate!¡±
¡°Everyone, please return home and wait. Every household in thisrge area will receive one liang!¡±
¡°Wow! One liang!¡±
¡°Use it sparingly. This is enough for a family¡¯s annual expenses!¡±
¡°Hahaha! May this brother enjoy a long life, surrounded by lovely concubines, and may he be blessed with countless offspring and wealth!¡±
¡°We¡¯ll revere him like an ancestor!¡±
The crowd erupted in cheers before orderly dispersing to their homes. asionally, they would peek out and engage in conversations with neighbors about the imminent arrival.
¡°It won¡¯t be long now. I heard the distribution began in the first alley.¡±
¡°A group of seven or eight individuals is carrying the box. It¡¯s said to contain a tael of silver for each household.¡¯
¡°This is absolutely thrilling! I¡¯ve never held a whole tael of silver in my hands!¡±
¡°You¡¯re right. My fingers have only ever felt coppers.¡±
¡°That brother truly possesses the heart of a bodhisattva.¡±
The team distributing money continued their orderly procession, handing out the funds to eager recipients at each door without dy. There were no obstacles ahead, but behind them, a sizable crowd had gathered to observe the proceedings.
The individual tasked with tailing the young man swiftly visited his rtive¡¯s house to gather more information. Their response confirmed that Wang Er, the seller of the Immortal Pills, had indeed arrived from Meijiang Prefecture City seeking refuge with distant rtives.
ording to their ount, Wang Er had left some money for the family the previous night, expressing his intention to depart. When asked about his destination, he had merely offered a cryptic reply, ¡°I haven¡¯t decided where to go yet.¡±
Presumably, he harbored concerns about being tracked down by friends and rtives seeking financial assistance, so he chose not to disclose his future whereabouts.
The pursuers were left befuddled, as they hadn¡¯t witnessed his departure the night before.
¡°Did he exit through the front door or scale the walls?¡± they inquired.
Wang Er¡¯s rtive admitted, ¡°We¡¯re not entirely sure either, as he left during the middle of the night while we were asleep.¡±
¡°He didn¡¯t make any noise, so we have no idea how he managed to slip away..¡±
Chapter 315 - 315: Burning the Bridge After Crossing the River
Chapter 315 - 315: Burning the Bridge After Crossing the River
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Could he have returned to Meijiang Prefecture City?¡± the pursuer inquired, as it wasmon for the newly wealthy to return home to bask in their newfound affluence.
Wang Er¡¯s rtive shook his head. ¡°I doubt it.¡±
He then exined that Wang Er was an orphan and had no family to return to. They lived in impoverished conditions withoutnd or fields. The only asset they possessed was a run-down house, mortgaged to someone in order to make money in the capital. In all likelihood, Wang Er, fearing the financial demands of acquaintances or even bandits, would have concealed his identity and sought refuge in an unfamiliar ce to start anew.
Facing this information, those who had been tailing Wang Er had no choice but to return to the pce and deliver their report. The decision of whether to continue monitoring Wang Er in Meijiang Prefecture City now rested with the Empress Dowager.
Upon receiving the news, the Empress Dowager chastised her agents for their ipetence. She then instructed them to dispatch individuals throughout the capital to search for any traces of Wang Er. However,cking concrete evidence against Qin Zhenzhen, the Empress Dowager remained unable to implicate her or recover the missing gold.
While the Empress Dowager¡¯s agents had yet to locate any leads on Wang Er, they received fresh reports from the slums north of the capital. It was revealed that Wang Er had left five to six thousand liang of money distributed among the residents of that area, bringing a festive atmosphere to the impoverished neighborhood. Grinning faces abounded as the inhabitants shared stories of Wang Er and the generous funds he had provided.
Not only did Wang Er distribute money, but he also went a step further by buying all the avable steamed buns and buns in the market and handing them out to beggars and the less fortunate. This altruistic act sparked enthusiastic discussions throughout the city.
Widespread praise poured in for Wang Er¡¯s character, with manyuding themoner for fulfilling a noble deed that should have been the Emperor¡¯s responsibility. His generosity brought warmth and hope to five to six thousand struggling families in the still-chilly spring.
However, when news of these benevolent actions reached the pce, the Emperor wore a furrowed brow. How was this matter connected to him? Wang Er¡¯s actions were utterly despicable in his view.
Not only had he secured a substantial amount of gold, but he had also mimicked charitable acts usually associated with the Emperor¡¯s benevolence. He believed it was an unwarranted intrusion on his turf.
Fueled by anger, the Emperor ordered his officials to find Wang Er, intending to teach him a lesson for his audacity.
Unexpectedly, in the afternoon, rumors spread like wildfire throughout the capital. Word on the street was that the pce had secretly dispatched agents to tail and surveil Wang Er, with the intention of reiming the banknotes.
Fortunately, Wang Er had exhibited cunning wit by escaping in the dead of night, eluding the pce¡¯s grasp. Many witnesses confirmed this, noting that Wang Er had been followed because authorities suspected someone else was orchestrating the entire charade. It was widely discussed throughout the capital.
People questioned whether the pce¡¯s motives were to retrieve the money or to investigate whether a hidden figure was manipting Wang Er. They concluded that the pce was, without a doubt, burning bridges after they had crossed them. They had acquired the life-saving Immortal Pill but seemed reluctant to part with it..
Chapter 316 - 316: A Man with Poor Control
Chapter 316 - 316: A Man with Poor Control
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°If Wang Er falls into their hands, then, regardless of whether there¡¯s someone behind him, the banknotes in his possession must be returned to the pce!¡± ¡°I never expected the Emperor to backtrack on his promise.¡±
¡°The Emperor has reimed the banknotes from Wang Er. I¡¯m afraid he¡¯s going to use them to reward some concubine.¡±
¡°That¡¯s almost certain. Our Emperor is quite lecherous, isn¡¯t he?¡±
When these sentiments reached the pce, the Empress Dowager scolded those responsible for trailing Wang Er once more.
¡°You¡¯re all a bunch of inept fools. You can¡¯t even handle such a simple task!¡±
¡°Not only did you lose him, but you¡¯ve also revealed your identities!¡±
¡°You¡¯ve trained for years and can¡¯t even outsmart a country bumpkin!¡±
The chastised individuals could only hang their heads in silence, avoiding any rebuttals.
They had taken precautions to maintain secrecy, having inquired about Wang Er through his rtives, even disguising themselves as ordinary citizens. Yet, they found themselves exposed, and the circumstances were baffling.
This was a grave injustice!
Upon hearing these rumors, the Emperor seethed with anger, his heart heavy with resentment.
He was also embittered by the Empress Dowager¡¯s ndestine operation to tail Wang Er. If not for her petty desire to reim the 1100 gold, the capital wouldn¡¯t have been awash with such derogatory gossip.
The Empress Dowager, equally discontented, recognized the urgent need for a solution and decided to confer with the Emperor to formte a n.
¡°Your Majesty, I believe the mastermind behind Wang Er is Qin Zhenzhen!¡±
The Emperor, already irritated by the Empress Dowager¡¯s actions, was now prepared to challenge her.
¡°Qin Zhenzhen is a woman, and she resides in the pce. How could she orchestrate such a scheme through Wang Er?¡±
¡°What makes you think she¡¯d dare to deceive the royal family out of 1,100 gold coins?¡±
Frustrated and angered, the Empress Dowager retorted, ¡°Your Majesty, don¡¯t forget that she has a husband who is astute and strategic. Su Bin was originally the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir and possesses the intellect of a young master.¡± ¡°The Old Marquis held him in high regard, even entrusting Butler Chen to him.¡± ¡°Qin Zhenzhen may not be capable of such actions as a woman, but he certainly
The Emperor felt somewhat exasperated this time. ¡°Mother, perhaps you¡¯re unaware, but Su Bin is a schrly and timid man. Although he ranked first in the middle three times in the Cultivated Talent examination, it¡¯s quite a stretch to im he¡¯s exceptionally clever.¡±
¡°My attendants have encountered him before. He¡¯s merely a nervous schr who relies on his wife for everything.¡±
The Emperor dispatched investigators to scrutinize Su Bin¡¯s background.
Butler Chen was merely a steward, and when the Jiang family¡¯s rumors circted, Su Bin andpany fled to the outskirts of Beijing out of fear.
Upon deeming it safe, they returned to the capital. It was evident that Su Bincked worldly experience.
¡°Moreover, when he saw his wife, he couldn¡¯t restrain himself from embracing her, regardless of the audience.¡±
¡°This, in many respects, suggests he¡¯s of a narrow disposition with little self-control.
Su Bin hadn¡¯t even dared to return to the Marquis Mansion, possibly out of fear of being bullied by his siblings who were raised in the capital.
How could a person like him have the audacity to conspire to deceive the royal family out of their gold?
However, the Emperor remained unaware of this fact.
This was a facade deliberately crafted by Su Bin.
One could say that Su Bin¡¯s talent for acting was already wless.
While the Empress Dowager contemted challenging the Emperor¡¯s assessment of Su Bin, she hesitated.
After all, the Emperor was the sovereign of the realm, and disputing his judgment regarding Su Bin might lead to an awkward situation.
Furthermore, the Empress Dowager¡¯s knowledge of Su Bin was limited..
Chapter 317 - 317: Not Tolerating
Chapter 317 - 317: Not Tolerating
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Empress Dowager attempted to approach the issue from a different angle to expose Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s scheme.
¡°It¡¯s highly probable that Qin Zhenzhen discovered not just a few Immortal Pills, but a significant quantity of them. She may have intentionally mystified the situation by iming that Immortal Pills are a rare find, then proceeded to amass a fortune from us!¡±
The Empress Dowager¡¯s argument seemed rather superficial andcked a sound basis.
Frowning, the Emperor responded, ¡°Mother, the ancient texts clearly state that Immortal Pills don¡¯t grow in abundance. Only two of them appear each time, and they won¡¯t reappear nearby.¡±
Despite the Emperor¡¯s counterargument, the Empress Dowager still wished to assert her viewpoint. However, the Emperor questioned her directly, ¡°Mother, do you desire more Immortal Pills or do you wish to see Qin Zhenzhen punished?¡±
This unexpected defense of Qin Zhenzhen left the Empress Dowager momentarily taken aback. She didn¡¯t anticipate the Emperoring to her aid.
The Emperor continued, speaking earnestly, ¡°Mother, the pce possesses vast amounts of gold and silver. The 1100 gold is truly an insignificant amount.¡±
Confused, the Empress Dowager hesitated and replied, ¡°I cannot let this matter go.¡±
The Emperor inquired further, ¡°So, are you more concerned about the gold or do you harbor ill feelings toward Qin Zhenzhen?¡±
Once again, the Empress Dowager was caught off guard. She didn¡¯t expect the Emperor to defend Qin Zhenzhen in this manner.
The Emperor continued with a sincere tone, ¡°Mother, there is an abundance of wealth in the pce. The 1100 gold is but a small fraction. I fail toprehend why you ordered someone to tail Wang Er.¡±
¡°Do you know how these rumors have spread?¡±
The Emperor began to realize that refraining from pursuing this matter further was the wisest course of action. Pushing it would only lead to more significant consequences and worsen public opinion against him.
He couldn¡¯t resort to violence and eliminate everyone spreading rumors about him; it would ultimately alienate his subjects.
The Empress Dowager retorted, ¡°It¡¯s precisely because of those rumors that I can¡¯t ignore this situation! Has the Emperor ever considered that these rumors might have been deliberately spread by Qin Zhenzhen and her associates?¡± Exhausted, the Emperor questioned, ¡°Then what would you suggest, Mother?¡± ¡°Are you implying that we should execute Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin?¡±
¡°Or perhaps we should arrest and imprison all those who have discussed this matter as a form of punishment?¡±
Atst, the Empress Dowager fell into silence.
The Emperor had already made it clear that Qin Zhenzhen was the savior of the royal family, making her untouchable. Killing her would only bring bad karma.
Su Bin was also off-limits; he was the young master of the Marquis Mansion, highly valued by the Old Marquis. Despite the Marquis Mansion¡¯s decline, they still possessed a ¡°get out of jail¡± card, thanks to their ancestors¡¯ contributions to the Chu Family¡¯s rule.
Arresting everyone discussing this matter would lead to utter chaos, considering their numbers.
Observing the Empress Dowager¡¯s silence, the Emperor continued, ¡°I believe this is the most appropriate course of action. We must immediately halt the search for Wang Er within the capital and release an official statement.¡±
¡°The statement should refute any ims that the royal family ever dispatched agents to tail or monitor Wang Er. We must deny any suspicions regarding a hidden hand behind Wang Er.¡±
¡°If Mother, you truly wish to act in my best interest, please refrain from further involvement in this matter!¡±
The Emperor¡¯s final words carried a resolute tone as he aimed to rectify his mother¡¯s misconceptions.
Previously, the Empress Dowager had been neglected by thete emperor and secretly cried. The Emperor saw this and felt pain in his heart, so he was more obedient to his mother.
Over the next ten years, the Empress Dowager continued to suffer from crippling headaches, which caused her to be increasingly irritable and prone to acts of violence, sometimes even endangering lives.
Despite these challenges, the Emperor remained patient with her.
But now, his mother¡¯s condition had nearly beenpletely cured. Only onest acupuncture session remained, and the imperial physicians had prepared the necessary pills for her subsequent recovery.
This should have been a cause for celebration, and the Empress Dowager should have felt grateful towards Qin Zhenzhen.
However, the Empress Dowager¡¯s reaction was quite the opposite. The Emperor could no longer tolerate his mother¡¯s behavior..
Chapter 318 - 318: I Think I Like You
Chapter 318 - 318: I Think I Like You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Ever since the Empress Dowager was reprimanded by the Emperor, she had be more obedient.
The nanny in charge beside her also yed the greatest role. When the time was right, she would give her psychological counseling.
Perhaps it was because the headache that had gued her for ten years had finally disappeared, but the Empress Dowager had also be more and more kind.
The incident of casually killing pce maids and eunuchs would no longer happen.
The pce maids and eunuchs were very grateful to Qin Zhenzhen and took special care of On the 20th day after Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s arrival at the pce, she approached the Empress Dowager with a humble request. Her husband, Su Bin, was eager to pursue his studies, and she also had to tend to her responsibilities in Meijiang Prefecture City.
Surprisingly, the Empress Dowager did not pose any obstacles in her path. Instead, she readily granted Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s plea and even generously bestowed upon her a collection of gold, silver, and precious jewelry.
The Emperor had long relinquished any interest in Qin Zhenzhen, considering the abundance of attractive women within the pce. Moreover, he recognized her as a woman not to be trifled with¡ªsomeone who possessed an almost divine protective aura. Those who treated her kindly found themselves blessed, while those who harbored ill intentions swiftly suffered the consequences.
A stark illustration of this principle was the fate of the Jiang family, whose centuries-old legacy crumbled in an instant.
Still, the Emperor chose to exhibit favoritism toward Qin Zhenzhen, bestowing her with avish assortment of gold, silver, and jewelry as a token of his goodwill.
Qin Zhenzhen returned from the pce, her handsden with opulent treasures.
The old eunuch from earlier escorted her to the entrance of Su Bin¡¯s residence.
As before, Su Bin enveloped Qin Zhenzhen in a warm embrace, right in front of the observant old eunuch. ¡°My dear wife, I¡¯ve missed you so much!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel an intense rush of intimacy, causing her cheeks to flush. She softly chided him, ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you? There¡¯s no need to put on an act anymore!¡±
Aware that the Emperor had long lost interest in her, evident in his consent for her to leave the pce, Su Bin offered a gentle rebuttal, ¡°Better to be cautious.
Pretending isn¡¯t too difficult, and it¡¯s rather pleasant, isn¡¯t it?¡±
This charade proved far easier than their previous encounters, and the sensation was not entirely unwee.
Almost ten days had passed since Qin Zhenzhen¡¯sst visit. It would be disingenuous to im there was no reaction within Su Bin as he held her once again.
Recollections of their previous intimate encounter stirred within him, but he swiftly released Qin Zhenzhen, unwilling to embarrass himself.
During the evening hours, Su Bin broached a sensitive topic with Qin
Zhenzhen, saying, ¡°We may need to share a bed tonight.¡±
He exined, ¡°Sleeping in separate rooms could potentially stir unwarranted suspicions if word of our arrangement were to leak.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded without hesitation. ¡°Of course, that¡¯s not a problem.¡±
Fear didn¡¯t factor into her equation. They were simply sharing a bed, and she possessed the absolute capability to fend off any unwanted advances from Su Bin.
After all, Su Bin was a frail schr, while she was a resolute woman. Consequently, if any awkward situation were to arise, it would be Su Bin who ended up feeling embarrassed, not her.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯sposed demeanor sent Su Bin¡¯s heart into a frenzy, causing his cheeks to flush. However, he had resolved to confront his feelings for Qin Zhenzhen tonight.
Summoning his courage before they settled into bed, Su Bin confessed, ¡°Qin
Zhenzhen, I¡ I believe I have feelings for you.¡±
Surprisingly, Qin Zhenzhen remained unperturbed. ¡°Is it feelings of the heart or merely physical attraction?¡±
With a crimson face, Su Bin responded, ¡°I have feelings in my heart. Physically¡ I do find you attractive.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°No, you¡¯re simply physically attracted to me.¡±
She added, ¡°Physical desire can easily be mistaken for affection, especially in situations where a man is in close proximity to a young woman..¡±
Chapter 319 - 319: I Promise to Marry Only You
Chapter 319 - 319: I Promise to Marry Only You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin¡¯s face flushed crimson. ¡°That¡¯s impossible! I¡¯ve only experienced such reactions with you. It wouldn¡¯t happen with any other women!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°That¡¯s because you haven¡¯t been in close proximity to other women.¡±
Su Bin objected, his face still tinged with embarrassment. ¡°I must protest your assumptions!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen retorted yfully, ¡°Objection overruled!¡±
¡°You can¡¯t judge without sufficient evidence.¡±
¡°Excuse me, have you ever acted simrly with other women?¡±
Su Bin genuinely hadn¡¯t. He hadn¡¯t even held hands with other girls.
Nevertheless, Su Bin thought quickly and admitted, ¡°I concede that I¡¯m physically drawn to you, but my affection for you runs deeper in my heart.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s interest piqued. ¡°Do you really understand what it means to have genuine feelings for someone?¡±
Seeing Su Bin remained silent, Qin Zhenzhen decided to enlighten him. ¡°You¡¯re not familiar with it, are you? Allow me to elucidate what it¡¯s like to truly care for someone.
Su Bin listened attentively.
¡°Firstly, my heart races whenever I see him. Every encounter quickens my pulse, and even my breath bes shallower.¡±
¡°Have you ever experienced that?¡±
Su Bin responded promptly, ¡°Yes, I have!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen yfully tapped Su Bin¡¯s chest with her finger. ¡°Really? Then why can¡¯t I detect your racing heart and shallow breath when you hug me?¡± ¡°You only seem to have these reactions when you¡¯re close to me, don¡¯t you?¡± Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s finger left Su Bin momentarily startled.
Everything she said seemed to make sense, yet something about it felt off.
During the time when he couldn¡¯t see her, he indeed longed for herpany. Nevertheless, it was undeniable that his heart raced and his breath quickened most intensely when he held her close. Did this mean his affection was merely physical?
As Su Bin found himself lost in thought, Qin Zhenzhen added, ¡°Immediate reactions upon physical contact are a manifestation of physical attraction, not emotional connection.¡±
Su Bin disagreed, feeling as if he were being portrayed as a creature ruled by base instincts. However, at that moment, he couldn¡¯t formte a suitable counterargument.
Ignoring his reaction, Qin Zhenzhen continued her exnation.
¡°Secondly, you envision spending your entire life with that person. You imagine growing old together, hand in hand, and this deep connection leads to genuine love.¡±
¡°Do you ever think like that?¡±
Seizing the opportunity, Su Bin gently took hold of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand. ¡°Yes,
I do! I want to grow old with you, holding your hand through life.¡±
Caught off guard, Qin Zhenzhen attempted to withdraw her hand, but her effort inadvertently pulled Su Bin closer, bringing them into intimate contact once more.
Their eyes met, and Qin Zhenzhen swiftly withdrew her hand and pushed him away, realizing that her heart was racing.
This man¡¯s presence was undeniably affecting her!
Stepping back until there was afortable distance between them, about three feet, Qin Zhenzhen concealed her racing heart behind a facade ofposure.
¡°Please note that I¡¯m referring to one person here, not two or several!¡± she dered firmly.
This served as a reminder to Su Bin that if he truly had feelings for her, he had to ept the idea of spending the rest of his life with her.
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s reactions, Su Bin noticed the telltale signs of a racing heart and rapid breath.
It struck him that her response mirrored the very same reaction they¡¯d experienced that night when they pretended to share the same room.
So, she was in the same boat as him!
This realization brought Su Bin a sense of reassurance.
When he responded to Qin Zhenzhen, his tone was sincere and earnest. ¡°My dear, don¡¯t worry. I promise to marry only you. There won¡¯t be another..¡±
Chapter 320 - 320: Planning to Spend My Life With Her
Chapter 320 - 320: nning to Spend My Life With Her
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen found herself taken aback by Su Bin¡¯s earnest promise.
Could he really mean it?
Yet, it was far too soon for Qin Zhenzhen tomit to such a profound rtionship. She hadn¡¯t confirmed if Su Bin was the only person in her life.
Swiftly, she formted a response. ¡°We can discuss this when our hearts race and our breath quickens just from being near each other!¡±
To her surprise, Su Bin readily agreed. ¡°Alright.¡±
With that, Su Bin fetched a nket and headed for the study, dering, ¡°I need some time to collect my thoughts.¡±
Once Su Bin had departed, Qin Zhenzhen let out a relieved sigh. She nced at herself in the mirror and noticed her flushedplexion, extending to the back of her ears.
Seemingly, her attempt to appearposed had failed, and Su Bin had likely seen through her facade.
Lying in bed, Qin Zhenzhen found herself unable to sleep for a long while. It was as if she were reying a movie in her mind, revisiting the moments of her interaction with Su Bin since her transmigration.
Initially, Su Bin¡¯s perspective as a potential viin had been slightly skewed due to his impending descent into evil.
The first time she hadid eyes on him, she had been captivated by his handsome countenance, even though he had looked at her with hostility.
However, their rtionship had gradually thawed over time. He had eventually set aside his animosity towards her, expressing gratitude for her invaluable assistance.
His gaze towards her had evolved, diverging from its initial antagonistic intensity. He had grown ustomed to calling her ¡°wife¡± and even ventured into yful teasing.
He had gone to great lengths, even feigning cooperation with the Old Marquis to secure a substantial sum of capital for her.
He had willingly ced his life on the line to confront both the Jiang family and the royal family on her behalf.
Even before he voiced his confession, he had already regarded her as family and intertwined his destiny with hers.
Qin Zhenzhen now found herselfpelled to contemte the trajectory of her rtionship with Su Bin.
Su Bin clutched the nket and settled into the study, but sleep eluded him. His thoughts yed out like a movie, recalling the moments when his perception of Qin Zhenzhen had undergone significant transformations.
The first shift urred when he noticed a change in her behavior after she returned from her kowtowing ceremony. Despite the surprise in her eyes, she refrained from her usual impulsive approach.
She didn¡¯t vent her frustrations as she typically did. Instead, she earnestly tried to mediate the feud between her brother and his.
In that moment, he had harbored intense animosity towards her, wanting to throttle her. She hade to him and proposed that he leave, almost as if she grasped his intentions, but she maintained aposed demeanor.
She even mentioned that once he sessfully attained the title of Cultivated Talent, he could present her with a divorce letter.
The second turning point came when their uncle aimed to sell their family¡¯snd. Not only did she safeguard the property deed, but she also shielded his younger siblings from hunger and mistreatment. To prevent him from using her jade pendant as coteral, she insisted on a fair split, even though she had earned it herself.
During this time, his resentment towards her began to wane.
The third instance urred when she intervened to secure his eligibility for the Imperial Examination. After that incident, gratitude overshadowed his prior hatred, as he perceived her past humiliations as somewhat offset.
The fourth asion took ce when she brought his fourth brother to rescue his sister, expertly handling Wang Yi¡¯s taunts and securing 100 liang aspensation with just a few words.
In that moment, he admitted that she was their family¡¯s lucky star. He yearned toprehend her better, and for the first time, the notion of spending the rest of his life with her flickered in his mind.
However, she mentioned that all her efforts for their family amounted to a demand for a divorce letter..
Chapter 321 - 321: I Think I’m Going to Lose
Chapter 321: I Think I¡¯m Going to Lose
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen seized the opportunity to request a divorce letter, and although it pained him, he found himself reluctantly agreeing. Her tireless support for his family weighed heavily on his decision.
Moreover, a sense of pridepelled him. If she no longer loved him, he reasoned, he should release her from their marriage.
However, as he prepared to pen the divorce letter, the situation underwent a sudden transformation. She expressed a desire to feign a loving couple status with him, all for the purpose of dealing with the Jiang family.
In that moment, joy overtook him, and he recognized that he might have genuinely fallen for her.
He also resolutely decided that if his love for her deepened to its core, he would not let her go. After all, who had incited the initial conflict between them?
He had been acting all along, but she remained oblivious.
Everything changed when she received a summons to the pce. Willingly, he tied his fate to hers, venturing into the capital alongside her to strategize.
During that period, he harbored no doubt¡ªhe had indeed fallen deeply in love with Qin Zhenzhen. He was willing to risk his life for her.
Contemting these memories, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but smile. He sensed that Qin Zhenzhen harbored affection for him too. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have entrusted him so implicitly, even staking her life on their partnership.
Perhaps she wasn¡¯t entirely certain or wasn¡¯t prepared to acknowledge her feelings just yet.
Su Bin resolved to understand herpletely if he truly cared for her. He wanted to learn her likes and dislikes, delve into her past, be a part of her present, and help shape her future.
Yet, a significant question lingered in his mind regarding Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s enigmatic past. Ever since her kowtowing ceremony, she had appeared as apletely different person!
Not only had her personality undergone a transformation, but her abilities, temperament, knowledge, and temper had also seemingly shifted into an entirely different individual.
Furthermore, the fact that she had so effortlessly resolved the crises guing their family raised suspicions. He couldn¡¯t help but wonder if she had foreknowledge of these events.
In anticipation of the impending danger within the capital, he had decided to apany her. However, Qin Zhenzhen effortlessly navigated all the perils, even orchestrating a scheme to amass 1,100 gold coins from the royal family.
Her audacity, her luck, and her sheerpetence appeared beyond that of an ordinary mortal. Could she truly be a celestial being, a heavenly fairy, supnting the original Qin Zhenzhen? Possessing not only the ability to foresee the future but also a mystical, immortal technique?
He couldn¡¯t shake the memory of the two Immortal Pills, their scent identical to the fragrance he had encountered that night in the mock bridal chamber. He was unequivocally certain.
Whether she was an immortal or a human, he was determined to win her over!
The morning after breakfast, Su Bin requested a private conversation with Qin
Zhenzhen in his study.
¡°Wife, I have something to discuss with you,¡± he began.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°What is it?¡±
Could it be that he intended to revisit their previous night¡¯s conversation so early in the morning?
Su Bin inquired, ¡°I¡¯d like to know, if our hearts no longer race and our breath doesn¡¯t quicken when we see each other, what should we do?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen momentarily stared at him, her irritation evident as she retorted, ¡°Then just give me a divorce letter!¡±
How exasperating!
Did he even understand the implications of his actions?
He seemed intent on persistently pursuing her until she yielded.
Yet,st night, she had resolved to make an effort to ept him!
Little did she anticipate such an absurd question so early in the morning.
Su Bin¡¯s expression appeared to shift. ¡°In that case, I suppose I¡¯ll suffer a significant loss..¡±
Chapter 322 - 322: She Wouldn’t Be So Soon to Divorce
Chapter 322: She Wouldn¡¯t Be So Soon to Divorce
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen was so infuriated that she nearly burst intoughter. ¡°What kind of loss are you talking about?¡±
Su Bin appeared conflicted. ¡°If I write you a divorce letter, we¡¯ll be strangers.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen sneered. ¡°You and I can¡¯t truly love each other from the depths of our hearts. We¡¯re destined to be strangers. Forced affection is never sweet!¡±
Su Bin looked as if he had suffered another setback. ¡°Then how should we resolve this?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen suddenly felt a hint of unease.
¡°How do you propose we settle this?¡± she asked cautiously.
¡°Compensation? How much?¡± Su Bin inquired. While it was the Host¡¯s suggestion, Qin Zhenzhen sensed that something was amiss. Su Bin had introduced this idea abruptly, and it was now her decision to ept or reject it.
¡°I don¡¯t want money,¡± Su Bin stated, shaking his head.
¡°Then what kind ofpensation do you desire?¡±
Again, Su Bin shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t wantpensation either. I want reciprocity. To do to you what you did to me before, to even the score.¡± Qin Zhenzhen blushed and vehemently protested, ¡°That¡¯s out of the question!¡±
Su Bin also seemed somewhat hesitant. ¡°It¡¯s indeed a bit challenging. If we were to replicate those actions in a public ce, it would be rather embarrassing.¡±
¡°But we can change the setting, somewhere secluded, behind closed doors.¡±
¡°But if we change the location, we have to double the number of instances. How about ten times?¡±
He had certainly saved a bold move forst!
Qin Zhenzhen cast an appraising gaze at Su Bin, whose harmless exterior masked a plethora of devious intentions. She clenched her teeth and muttered,
¡°Go on.¡±
Su Bin wasted no time and continued his suggestion.
¡°It seems a bit extreme to suggest biting your lips; it might get too gruesome or even lead to broken teeth. How about we omit that part and simply double the overall count?¡±
¡°Shoving someone to the ground could be risky. If I don¡¯t apply the right amount of force, they might just bump their head, but a head injury could getplicated.¡±
¡°Why not try pushing against a wall, or cing them on the bed, or engaging in a hug¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t take it anymore. She snatched a book and hurled it at Su
Bin. ¡°You must be dreaming!¡±
Su Bin deftly caught the book she threw at him. Over the past few days, he had be much more agile thanks to riding lessons from Qin Silong and Su Ping.
¡°Wife, are you upset?¡±
¡°Shut up and stop calling me ¡®wife!!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was genuinely irritated.
¡°Wife, if you find it inappropriate, then consider I never brought it up.¡±
He quickly added, ¡°I just wanted to suggest that you both take more time. Don¡¯t rush to a decision, and don¡¯t rush into a divorce, alright?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s expression was earnest and tinged with nervousness.
He worried that Qin Zhenzhen might be genuinely upset, but he was even more concerned she might request a divorce letter.
After all, the Jiang family crisis had been resolved, and the emperor¡¯s feelings for her had faded.
Taking a deep breath, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°I¡¯m not in a hurry to divorce.¡± Su Bin breathed a sigh of relief. He wasn¡¯t ready to write that letter either.
¡°You said before that when you get your name on the Golden List..
Su Bin quickly interrupted Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Then let¡¯s give each other a deadline. When my name is on the Golden List, you still can¡¯t really ept me. How about we talk about the divorce letter?¡± ¡°Okay!¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied readily.
She would not be so quick to cancel the divorce.
Although the Jiang family¡¯s crisis had been resolved, the royal family was not a big threat to her.
However, her business had just started. She still needed Su Bin¡¯s start-up capital to be the richest man in the country..
Chapter 323 - 323: The Crown Prince
Chapter 323 - 323: The Crown Prince
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Most importantly, Qin Zhenzhen believed she could still make an effort to nurture a rtionship with Su Bin. Giving up on such a handsome husband would be a waste.
In that moment, Su Bin pondered his own thoughts. If Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t ept him even when he achieved top marks in the examination, he wouldn¡¯t readily write a divorce letter.
He was determined to bring up thepensation he had previously suggested. He firmly believed that offering her several times thepensation would eventually win her over. He was unwavering in his determination not to give up on her.
If Qin Zhenzhen were privy to Su Bin¡¯s thoughts, she might have felt inclined to kick him away. His perspective seemed to have veered far off course. Just then, an attendant arrived with a report.
¡°Young Master, the butler from the Crown Prince¡¯s Residence is here with a formal invitation. Here¡¯s the invitation.
Su Bin epted the invitation and expressed curiosity. ¡°Why would the Crown Prince visit?¡±
¡°Perhaps it¡¯s because I¡¯m so convincingly portraying myself as unremarkable, timid, and averse to trouble that it¡¯s caught his attention?¡±
¡°Your Highness, do you realize that my wisdom and strategic prowess have piqued his interest, and he wishes to forge a connection with me and have me join his faction?¡±
Su Bin muttered to himself in a somewhat narcissistic manner before turning to Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Wife, what do you think I should do when he arrives? Should
I continue feigning mediocrity, or should I disy my talents appropriately?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nced at him and retorted sarcastically, ¡°You, with your abundance of wisdom and strategic brilliance, surely know what to do.¡±
Su Bin, brimming with confidence, believed he could execute thepensation n he had previously proposed with ease. He couldn¡¯t foresee any challenges that could deter him.
¡°Thank you for yourpliments, my dear wife.¡±
¡°Nevertheless, I suspect the Crown Prince may have ulterior motives for humbling himself and paying a visit.¡±
Su Bin refrained from borating further, choosing instead to exit the study to make the necessary preparations. With the Crown Prince¡¯s impending arrival, adequate arrangements were paramount.
Crown Prince Chu Hengsheng had inherited his father¡¯s penchant forsciviousness and had taken it a step further.
His father, a man obsessed with cleanliness, would never entertain the notion of touching any woman who wasn¡¯t his original partner.
The Crown Prince, on the other hand, exhibited theplete opposite behavior. As long as a woman captured his attention, even if she were a courtesan, he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to pursue her.
He had first glimpsed Qin Zhenzhen in the pce, and her image had left an indelible mark in his mind.
In his eyes, Qin Zhenzhen was unlike any woman he had ever encountered.
With her captivating beauty and alluring figure, she carried an air of casual confidence and exuberant vitality, radiating a natural and untamed allure.
The Crown Prince had never encountered a woman quite like her before, and she piqued his curiosity.
However, there was a significant obstacle in his pursuit ¨C Qin Zhenzhen had already wed another man.
Normally, this wouldn¡¯t have deterred him, but the man she had married was none other than the Old Marquis¡¯s biological grandson, Su Bin.
Rumors had it that the Old Marquis held Su Bin in high regard. Even before Su Bin returned to the Marquis Mansion to officially acknowledge his heritage, the Old Marquis had bestowed upon him a substantial sum of money. He had even gifted Su Bin with Mr. Chen, who had been by his side.
If everything went ording to n, Su Bin would inevitably be the heir of the Marquis Mansion, and Qin Zhenzhen would be the mansion¡¯s princess consort.
This presented a significant challenge for the Crown Prince. His interest in Qin Zhenzhen was fueled by lust, but it was also driven by the tantalizing prospect of acquiring what seemed unattainable. Consequently, his desires burned with an insatiable itch.
Aware that Qin Zhenzhen was set to depart the capital in just two days, the Crown Prince yearned for an opportunity to see her but struggled to find a legitimate excuse.
As the Crown Prince, he couldn¡¯t simply visit Su Bin unannounced. However, his aide, Mr. Huang, had a different perspective.
¡°I believe Su Bin is not an ordinary individual.¡±
¡°If he were, the Old Marquis wouldn¡¯t hold him in such high regard.¡±
¡°I suspect that the Jiang family and the Eighth Imperial Uncle¡¯s schemes have been exposed. It¡¯s possible he yed a role in that.¡±
The Crown Prince¡¯s interest was piqued. ¡°It appears that I must pay him a visit..¡±
Chapter 324 - 324: Hiding
Chapter 324 - 324: Hiding
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
When the Crown Prince paid Su Bin a visit, Su Bin continued his facade of mediocrity while feigning respect and apprehension. Initially, he suspected the Crown Prince¡¯s motives centered on his wife, given that the Crown Prince had already set his eyes on Qin Zhenzhen during her time in the pce.
Su Bin had taken the initiative to investigate the Crown Prince¡¯s character, making it challenging to dismiss concerns of potential ill intentions.
However, it didn¡¯t take long for Su Bin to realize that the Crown Prince¡¯s interests weren¡¯t solely focused on his wife. Rather, he was making an effort to ingratiate himself with Su Bin. This perplexed Su Bin; after all, he was merely a Cultivated Talent, so what could the Crown Prince possibly seek from him?
After the Crown Prince¡¯s departure, Su Bin promptly discussed with Qin Zhenzhen their n to depart for Meijiang Prefecture City. He understood that, for the time being, it was best not to antagonize the Crown Prince and instead keep a safe distance.
Qin Zhenzhen was quick to grasp the Crown Prince¡¯s intentions and readily agreed to leave the capital.
On their way back to the Crown Prince¡¯s residence, the Crown Prince couldn¡¯t shake off thoughts of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s voice and smile. Seeing her again had only heightened her beauty in his eyes.
Upon returning to his residence, the Crown Prince grew increasingly uneasy. His servant, Xiao Liuzi, offered some advice.
¡°Your Highness, I believe it¡¯s not difficult to arrange a meeting with Miss Qin.
We can have one of the women in the residence feign illness and invite Miss
Qin over for a consultation.¡±
Xiao Liuzi hinted at a variety of potential schemes, from using aphrodisiacs in her food to luring her with knockout fragrances, and even resorting to force if necessary.
The Crown Prince, a highly skilled martial artist, believed that he could easily handle a woman. From the perspective of a married woman, he assumed that once he seeded, Qin Zhenzhen would opt to suffer in silence to preserve her reputation.
In the Crown Prince¡¯s mind, this n was nothing short of brilliant, and he eagerly dispatched someone to invite Qin Zhenzhen in the afternoon.
However, to his dismay, he learned that Qin Zhenzhen and herpanions had already departed for Meijiang Prefecture City in the morning.
The Crown Prince was on the verge of sending someone to pursue them when his aide, Mr. Huang, intervened urgently. ¡°Your Highness, please reconsider your actions!¡±
¡°The Crown Prince is destined to be the Emperor. There are limits to what you can and cannot do. Please weigh your choices carefully.¡±
Mr. Huang¡¯s words carried a distinct undertone of admonition, and the Crown Prince remained silent.
Mr. Huang had been assigned to him by his grandfather, and out of respect for his grandfather¡¯s wishes, he paid heed to Mr. Huang¡¯s counsel.
Mr. Huang continued to offer words of caution. ¡°His Highness holds a lofty position. While he can have any woman he desires, Qin Zhenzhen is not an option. ¡±
¡°Firstly, Qin Zhenzhen is set to be the Marquis Mansion¡¯s princess consort. Pursuing her would entail significant repercussions.¡±
¡°Secondly, Su Bin is no ordinary man. If he discovers that someone has harmed his wife, he may seek vengeance.¡±
¡°Thirdly, Qin Zhenzhen herself is not to be underestimated. She possesses skills in detoxification and poison. Are you willing to risk her seeking retribution
¡°Even the Empress Dowager and the Emperor ultimately chose to relinquish Qin Zhenzhen. Your Highness must be aware of the reasons behind their decision.¡±
After Mr. Huang¡¯s impassioned plea, the Crown Prince regretted his impulsive intentions.
Observing that the Crown Prince was heeding his counsel, Mr. Huang exerted his utmost effort to persuade him further.
¡°Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen are both exceptional individuals. If Your Highness extends goodwill toward them now, they could prove invaluable assets in the future.¡¯
¡°However, should Your Highness persist in your current course, the repercussions could be severe.¡±
¡°There¡¯s a widely circted rumor that suggests those who wrong Qin Zhenzhen rarely meet favorable ends. Your Highness may choose to disregard it, but I believe it¡¯s wiser to heed such caution.¡±
¡°Because sometimes, rumors have a basis in truth..¡±
Chapter 325 - 325: Two People Who Like Each Other
Chapter 325 - 325: Two People Who Like Each Other
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
A carriage sped along the official road heading back to Meijiang Prefecture
City, with four horsemen trailing behind it. Among the riders, two were Qin Silong and Su Ping.
In the vicinity, several discreet guards rode on horseback, all of whom belonged to Su Bin¡¯s retinue.
Inside the carriage, Grandma Qin rested on a small bed, lying on her side. Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin sat in silence.
Unable to hold it in any longer, Su Bin whispered, ¡°Wife, why don¡¯t you lie down and rest on the bed as well?¡±
¡°If you think my presence is inconvenient, I can join Second Brother and ride outside.¡±
Su Bin reached for the carriage curtains, preparing to call for assistance. However, Qin Zhenzhen tugged him back.
¡°Never mind, there¡¯s no inconvenience. You¡¯re a schr, not ustomed to riding horses. Going out could be even more troublesome if you fall ill.¡±
¡°It¡¯s still three days until we reach the prefecture.¡±
Su Bin peeked out to see Qin Silong and his fourth brother. The dust stirred up by their horses nearly entered his eyes.
He withdrew, realizing it wasn¡¯t suitable for him to be exposed to the elements. Falling ill would only burden his wife.
As he continued to train his body in the future, he aimed to excel in both martial and schrly pursuits. For now, sitting inside the carriage with his wife was quite enjoyable. Although they couldn¡¯t embrace, it was still quite delightful.
ncing at her asionally, Su Bin managed to sustain his cheerful disposition.
Qin Zhenzhen sat across from Su Bin, resting against the carriage¡¯s interior with her eyes shut.
She preferred not to engage with Su Bin, concerned about disrupting her grandma¡¯s sleep. Furthermore, she wanted to avoid talking to him altogether, considering his earlier proposal forpensation.
At night, while they were lodging at an inn, a fast horse approached from behind, causing Qin Silong to guard the carriage warily.
To their relief, it was a false rm ¨C one of Su Bin¡¯s secret guards. He delivered a confidential letter to Su Bin, who then passed it on to Qin Zhenzhen.
After reading the contents, Qin Zhenzhen erupted in anger, eximing, ¡°Chu Tianheng! He¡¯s truly courting death!¡±
The secret letter revealed that the Crown Prince intended to have a woman from his residence feign illness and lure Qin Zhenzhen to his residence under the guise of a consultation, where he nned to harm her.
Upon learning that Qin Zhenzhen and her party had departed for Meijiang Prefecture City, he had contemted sending someone after them, but his advisor, Mr. Huang, had advised against it.
Following dinner, Grandma Qin advised Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°For safety, it¡¯s best if you and Su Bin stay in the same room.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen hesitated, saying, ¡°But I¡¯m concerned about you being alone.¡±
Grandma Qin reassured her, saying, ¡°Why would I worry? Your fourth brother and Su Bin are next door, and Su Bin has secret guards. Besides, the emperor could discover that you and Su Bin have always been pretending, and the consequences would be dire.¡±
Adding another point, she continued, ¡°And now with the Crown Prince involved, maybe it¡¯s time to stop pretending to be a couple.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen blushed and stuttered, ¡°Grandma, I¡¡±
Undeterred, Grandma Qin went on, ¡°I can see how much Su Bin cares for you. He¡¯s even willing to tie his life to yours, which is a clear indication of his genuine affection.¡±
¡°I can also see how you care about Su Bin. It¡¯s evident that you have deep feelings for him too.¡±
¡°Two people who like each other, don¡¯t have any other problems.¡±
¡°If only the two of you could have children soon.¡±
She couldn¡¯t bring herself to believe that the Crown Prince would pursue any inappropriate designs on her, especially after she had given birth.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face flushed even deeper as she said, ¡°Grandma, I understand. I¡¯ll go talk to him right away.¡±
Ignoring her grandma¡¯s suggestion of forming a genuine couple with Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen approached Su Bin to convey her decision to continue with their act..
Chapter 326 - 326: A Little Nephew Soon
Chapter 326 - 326: A Little Nephew Soon
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen felt that what her grandma said made sense.
Now that the Crown Prince had his eyes on her, although she was stopped by his aides this time, she might not be so lucky next time.
There was no other way. This was a world where the imperial power was greater than the sky. They did not have enough strength to resist, so they could only lower their heads to the powerful.
Qin Zhenzhen dawdled to look for Su Bin, thinking about what to sayter.
Su Bin¡¯s secret guards had already told Su Bin what grandma Qin had said.
He was a little surprised. He did not expect grandma Qin to already acknowledge him and even urge Qin Zhenzhen to have a child with him!
Giving birth was indeed a good way to deal with the Crown Prince¡¯s lust.
However, although he was surprised, he would not force Qin Zhenzhen to have
a child with him.
He knew that Qin Zhenzhen had not really liked him that much.
Qin Silong had yet to truly acknowledge him.
He also felt that he was only 17 years old, had yet toplete his studies, and had yet to obtain a title. He had yet to end his rtionship with the Marquis Mansion. It was really too early to be a father.
Qin Zhenzhen was only 15 years old.
He had heard that giving birth too early was not good for a girl¡¯s health.
He and his wife would be together for a long time.
Therefore, he was not in a hurry.
Su Bin was worried that Qin Zhenzhen would not be able to let go of her pride and look for him, so he went to look for her first.
The two of them met in the corridor outside the room.
Qin Zhenzhen was a little embarrassed. She had not thought of what to say.
Su Bin was the first to speak. ¡°Wife, I have something to discuss with you.¡±
With that, he pulled Qin Zhenzhen into the room.
Qin Zhenzhen did not refuse, nor did she retract her hand.
Su Bin held Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s soft and warm hand and peeked at her gentle and obedient expression. His heart fluttered.
¡°Discuss what?¡±
Su Bin exined his worries.
¡°I think we need to share the same room.¡±
¡°But don¡¯t misunderstand. I won¡¯t take advantage of you.¡±
¡°When I sleep, I don¡¯t usually move. Anyway, I won¡¯t cross the line.¡±
Hearing Su Bin¡¯s words, Qin Zhenzhen suddenly smiled. ¡°Alright, I believe you.¡±
Upon their return to the prefecture, Su Bin took charge of relocating all of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s belongings from her room to his.
And just like that, one more room stood empty.
Su Ning hastened to find him, her curiosity piqued. ¡°Second Brother, have
Third Brother and Third Sister-inw already shared a bed in the capital?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± he replied simply.
Heter discovered that his third brother and sister-inw had indeed spent the night together in the capital. But he firmly believed that such actions were nearly indistinguishable from genuine affection.
Now that they were sharing a room, albeit for appearances¡¯ sake, who could guarantee that it wouldn¡¯t evolve into something more?
Yet, he had no intention of exining these thoughts in such detail to his Sixth Sister.Su Ningning was overjoyed upon receiving confirmation and immediately sought out Su Qing.
¡°Fourth Brother, Fourth Brother! I have wonderful news! Third Brother and
Third Sister-inw¡ are on their way to giving us a nephew!¡±
Su Qing shared in her excitement, swiftly retrieving pen and paper. ¡°Sixth
Sister, please prepare the ink for me. Fourth Brother wishes to write to Eldest
Sister and the others and share this joyful news!¡±
Qin Silong and Grandma Qin resided in their own separate house in the prefecture, a property that Qin Zhenzhen had acquired.
Now, her second brother, second sister-inw, and third brother were all cohabitating. Luckily, the house was sufficiently spacious, with ample rooms to amodate any guests.
Even if her parents and eldest brother¡¯s family decided to visit, there would be enough space for everyone.
Despite the Qin family¡¯s residence being a couple of streets away from the Su family¡¯s, word had spread throughout the Qin household that Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen had indeed shared a bed..
Chapter 327 - 327: Military Service (1)
Chapter 327 - 327: Military Service (1)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After Su Bin drifted off into slumber, his obedience became quite evident. He remained almost entirely motionless, not even sumbing to the urge to roll over.
On the other hand, Qin Zhenzhen was an entirely different story. She had a long-standing habit of tossing and turning in her sleep.
In the modern era, she had invested in a massive, 1.8-meter-tall bed. This indulgent purchase allowed her the freedom to sprawl and maneuver however she pleased during her nightly slumber.
However, that night in the capital, neither of them experienced much rest. The circumstances were such that rolling around in bed was out of the question.
On the inaugural night, Qin Zhenzhen struggled to find sleep, staying awake until thete hours.
Upon waking up, she noticed that Su Bin had already risen and retreated to the study for some early morning reading.
A peculiar realization dawned on her; she found herself nestled in Su Bin¡¯s customary spot, cocooned beneath his nket. ¡®What on earth happenedst night?¡¯
They had each imed a nket for themselves.
So, did she unconsciously migrate to Su Bin¡¯s side during the night?
She felt too embarrassed to inquire about it from Su Bin directly.
Over the course of the next few nights, she consistently retired to bedte. Yet, when morning came, she would discover that Su Bin had already started his day ahead of her. To her astonishment, she found herself not only upying Su Bin¡¯s side of the bed but also cocooned in his warm nket.
What was even more perplexing was that this nket exuded Su Bin¡¯s distinct fragrance. She even found herself nuzzling into it¡
Upon contemtion, she attempted to rationalize her actions. Su Bin, after all, was a grown man in the prime of his life. His body naturally radiated warmth, especially during the still-chilly early spring nights.
Given this, it wasn¡¯t entirely surprising that she gravitated closer to him.
But the perplexing part remained ¨C why did she cover him with his own nket instead of using her own?
Could it be that she had inadvertently kicked off her own nket, subsequently pilfered Su Bin¡¯s, and somehow ended up sharing the same bed?
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t contain her curiosity any longer and turned to Su Bin, her voice filled with intrigue, ¡°Why is it that I find myself covering you with a nket every single morning?¡±
She hesitated for a moment before pressing further, ¡°And, just to rify, would it be considered crossing a line if I fell asleep?¡±
Su Bin remainedposed, offering an exnation, ¡°I typically slumber until dawn, unaware of any nighttime urrences. It¡¯s only in the morning that I realize you tend to draw nearer because you¡¯ve habitually kicked your nket aside and be chilly.¡±
He continued, ¡°I¡¯ve analyzed it as well. When you kicked off your nket and felt the cold, you instinctively moved closer to me.¡±
¡°So, that¡¯s when I¡¯d drape my nket over you.¡±
He concluded with a slightly embarrassed smile, ¡°Because¡ my bed is warmer.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen blushed, seeking the unvarnished truth, ¡°Just be honest with me. Did I, in fact, migrate to your bed due to being cold after discarding my own nket?¡±
Su Bin stumbled over his words, attempting to rify, ¡°No¡ no, it¡¯s not like that. You simply gravitated toward me. I was just worried you might catch a chill, which is why I covered you with my nket.¡±
With newfound determination, Qin Zhenzhen dered, ¡°Well, tonight, I¡¯m relocating to the academy!¡±
Upon hearing this, Su Bin swiftly made his escape.
Qin Zhenzhen breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed that the young man should have moved to the academy a long while ago!
She couldn¡¯t help but wonder, in all seriousness, whether she had unintentionally found her way into his bed.
Time flew by, and in the blink of an eye, March had arrived.
During this period, everyone found themselves engaged in various activities, leading lives filled with purpose and satisfaction. Time slipped away imperceptibly.
Recruitment notices adorned every corner of Meijiang Prefecture City.
Both Qin Silong and Su Ping took the initiative to enlist and sessfully passed the rigorous selection process.
In ancient times, military service wasn¡¯t a duty for all and sundry; it required specific qualifications, much like the selection process of the modern era. Only the best candidates were epted.
In essence, when a family member joined the military, they received a monthly stipend, and the imperial court allocated an annual sum to their family. This financial support mirrored the practices of the contemporary world.
However, there was a key distinction: the silver provided by the Imperial Court was funded through taxation. Families without a member serving in the military were subject to substantial military taxes.
Some individuals who had sessfully passed the selection but were averse to military service could only seek exemption by paying additional fees..
Chapter 328 - 328: Military Service (2)
Chapter 328 - 328: Military Service (2)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong and Su Ping returned to their hometown to enlist in the military.
It was a scene right out of Qin Silong¡¯s dreams. This year¡¯s spring recruitment directly involved their family.
However, spection ran rife that the Qin family would likely resort to financial means to secure exemption from military service. It was widely known that the Qin family possessed the means to do so.
This sentiment stemmed from amon understanding that military service was far from ideal. The border regions were constantly fraught with unrest, and even the slightest misstep could result in the loss of one¡¯s life.
Yet, the oue left everyone perplexed: Qin Silong, the fourth son of the Qin family, had volunteered for military service.
Rumors suggested that initially, the elder members of the Qin family had their reservations, but Qin Silong remained resolute in his decision.
In fact, ording to tradition, it should have been the eldest son of the Qin family fulfilling this obligation. He was already married with a family and offspring, while Qin Silong remained unmarried.
The vigers in Qian Family Vige couldn¡¯t help but discuss the matter.
¡°Why would a young master from the Marquis Mansion need to serve in the military?
¡°Even if the family draws lots, they have the wealth to buy their way out.¡±
¡°Absolutely. I heard that he didn¡¯t seek the family¡¯s help; he enlisted on his own.¡±
¡°That¡¯s peculiar. Could it be that he¡¯s simply putting on a show, going to the military camp for training? Perhaps the Marquis Mansion intends to pay him to forge connections and secure an official position in the military camp?¡±
¡°That makes sense. Su Bin is quite talented and can pursue an official career. As the eldest son, he can¡¯t afford to achieve nothing.¡±
The recruits had a chance of being stationed in locations other than the vtile border regions. Some might find themselves assigned to the military camps in the outskirts of the capital.
For the fortunate few whonded spots in the Guards Legion Corps or the City Defense Army, they could potentially avoid venturing onto the battlefield for the remainder of their careers.
If he could secure an official position within the military andter serve in the capital, a wealth of opportunities for personal gain would undoubtedly open up.
Yet, there were dissenting voices amidst the chorus of spection.
¡°I think your assumptions might be off. It seems highly unlikely.¡±
¡°You¡¯re right. The Old Marquis clearly holds them in high regard. You could see it during their grand visit to our vigest time. The Old Marquis eagerly anticipates their return to the Marquis Mansion and acknowledges them as kin every day.¡±
¡°But they all seem driven by ambition. Look at them; not a single one is inclined to return.¡±
¡°Remember how their father chose to escape from the Marquis Mansion and live a simple vige life like ours instead of assuming the mantle of young master of the Hou family? There must be more to the story.¡±
¡°I suspect Qin Silong aims to pave his own path within the military camp, showing the Marquis Mansion¡¯s inhabitants that they can lead fulfilling lives without relying solely on their status as young masters. They can attain their own aplishments.¡±
¡°There¡¯s another angle to consider. Perhaps he¡¯s been influenced by his brother-inw. The men from the military camp possess an indomitable spirit. ¡±
¡°Take Qian Shanmin, for example. Despite his physical disability, he¡¯s no less capable than those of us with able bodies. In fact, he¡¯s several times stronger.¡±
Several voices joined in agreement, ¡°Your insights seem spot-on. That¡¯s got to be it.¡±
Another voice chimed in, ¡°I think there¡¯s yet another reason ¨C it¡¯s what Qin Zhenzhen articted. Do you recall what she passionately proimed on that mountain?¡±
¡°Of course, I remember!¡±
¡°When I heard her fervent words, it stirred something within me. I started to think that serving in the military might not be as daunting as it sounds. In fact, it¡¯s something to be proud of.¡±
¡°Absolutely! If ites to drawing lots next time, I¡¯ll step forward andpete for the opportunity. No more pushing each other aside among the brothers.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll enroll in the next recruitment even if it means I can¡¯t make it in!¡±
¡°If my health weren¡¯t so fragile, I¡¯d have joined the military camp as well.. I¡¯ve heard they provide decent meals!¡±
Chapter 329 - 329: Put Your Life First
Chapter 329 - 329: Put Your Life First
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
On the day Qin Silong and Su Bin departed for the camp, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin returned to their hometown.
The family apanied them to the county¡¯s ry station.
Qin Silong took Qin Zhenzhen aside for a private conversation. ¡°Zhenzhen, if all goes as nned, I won¡¯t be back for three years.¡±
¡°I¡¯m entrusting our family¡¯s safety to you, and you must take special care of yourself. ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded solemnly. ¡°Of course, Fourth Brother. Our family doesn¡¯t have any known enemies, and the Jiang family has already crumbled. There shouldn¡¯t be any concerns about their safety.¡±
¡°As for the royal family¡¯s people, now that we¡¯re back in the prefecture capital, we should be safe.
However, Qin Silong harbored reservations. ¡°Zhenzhen, I know you¡¯re trying to reassure me, but I can¡¯t ignore the fact that the royal family¡¯s agents are always a lurking threat.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve noticed that your rtionship with Su Bin is good now. Perhaps it¡¯s time to consider having a child soon?¡±
¡°Fourth Brother, I¡¯ll discuss this with Su Bin.¡±
After addressing this matter, Qin Zhenzhen swiftly changed the subject. ¡°Fourth Brother, your future within the military camp holds immense potential, but don¡¯t let your guard down just because you¡¯ve been reborn. You must remain vignt against potential dangers at all times.¡±
Qin Silong affirmed, ¡°I will. I won¡¯t be as impulsive as I was in the dream.¡±
In his previous life, he had experienced the battlefield, confronting and vanquishing bandits. Each time, he narrowly escaped death. While he had survived, many of hisrades were less fortunate.
His return to the military camp was driven by two primary objectives. Firstly, he aimed to make significant contributions and rise to a position of authority. He understood that only by wielding real power could he effectively safeguard his family.
Secondly, he was determined to do everything in his power to protect the lives of his fellowrades in the military camp, sparing them from the perils of battle.
There were also those foreign invaders who persistently stirred trouble at the border, peering into their homnd. Qin Silong was eager to impart a profound lesson to these adversaries.
¡°Well, if Su Ping stands by my side, I¡¯ll ensure his well-being as well.¡±
¡°Given that we¡¯re family, I¡¯ll do my utmost to put the past from my dreams behind me.¡±
From the moment Qin Silong resolved to instruct Su Ping in martial arts, he had determined not to treat him as an enemy.
All the enmity they had experienced urred solely in a dream. If he were to truly tally grievances, he had even inflicted harm upon Su Qing in that dream.
Hence, in their previous lives, mey on all sides.
The heavens had granted him and his sister a second chance at life not for the sake of revenge but for reconciling the grievances of their past existence.
Su Bin also took his second brother aside and offered a reminder, ¡°Second Brother, remember that once you enter the military camp, military rules will be in effect. The consequences for breaching these rules are severe.¡±
¡°In addition, there will be injustices everywhere. I hope that you¡¯ll maintainposure when faced with adversity. Think twice before taking action; regret oftenes toote.¡¯
¡°Nevertheless, your top priority must always be your own safety.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m well aware of what needs to be done.¡±
¡°I won¡¯t let you down.¡±
Su Ping then whispered into Su Bin¡¯s ear, ¡°Third Brother, you must pursue a civilian career. I¡¯ll strive to excel in the military field. When the timees, we¡¯ll show the Old Marquis why we have no desire to return to the Marquis Mansion and im our lineage!¡±
While he had a fiery temper and didn¡¯t contemte many matters deeply,
One thing remained abundantly clear to him: the Old Marquis was seeking their lineage because hecked worthy descendants within the Marquis Mansion.
Moreover, his equal wife¡¯s family possessed neither wealth nor influence. They had nothing to offer, and not only were they incapable of aiding the Marquis Mansion, but they could also be a potential burden..
Chapter 330 - 330: The Old Marquis Is Undoubtedly Selfish
Chapter 330 - 330: The Old Marquis Is Undoubtedly Selfish
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
He was well aware of the Old Marquis¡¯s keen interest in his third brother¡¯s abilities and his grandmother¡¯s lineage, the Lin family.
In the influential circles of the capital, it was clear that only by forging alliances could one attain a higher and more secure position.
The analysis provided by Third Brother was astute: Their biological grandfather had unquestionably been self-serving. His past actions had been egregiously unjust towards their grandmother and father.
He had wedded the legitimate daughter of the Lin family with the sole aim of gaining ess to the Lin family¡¯s influence. His union with an equal wife had been driven by his professed love, with the intention of elevating his beloved to a higher status.
Once the first wife bore him an heir, hepletely disregarded her, causing immense sorrow to their grandmother.
In his quest to bnce his affections and loyalties, he had even turned a blind eye to the suspicious circumstances surrounding his wife¡¯s demise.
He had refused to believe the words of his own son.
At that time, he could never have imagined that his son would dare to expose this scandal. He not only ran away from home, forsaking the Marquis Mansion, a symbol of opulence, but also did so without securing any substantial support.
The news of his biological son¡¯s flight from home sent shockwaves throughout the capital.
Consequently, the Old Marquis became a subject of ridicule across the entire city. Rumors circted that he favored his concubines over his wife and was used of causing her demise by none other than his own flesh and blood.
Had it not been for the absence of concrete evidence, the Imperial Family might have taken punitive measures against the Old Marquis.
In response, the Lin family severed all ties with the Marquis Mansion.
Initially, the Old Marquis resented his son, as he believed that his actions had caused him tremendous embarrassment. He went so far as to deny any connection to his own offspring.
However, he had never anticipated that even the child he had with his equal wife, although not considered a concubine¡¯s child, would be shunned by the nobility in the capital. No one was willing to form a marital alliance with the Marquis Mansion.
Consequently, the status and prospects of the Old Marquis¡¯s children and grandchildren were far frommendable.
Furthermore, it was an undeniable truth that his offspring, spanning multiple generations, had proven to be a source of disappointment. It appeared that the legacy of the Marquis Mansion was on the brink of decline under his stewardship.
It wasn¡¯t due to ack of desire on his part to designate his children and grandchildren as heirs. The obstacley in the disapproval of his petitions by the emperor and esteemed schrs, who deemed his descendants unworthy of such a prestigious designation.
His progenycked both standing and capability, and their backgrounds deviated from conventional norms.
The pce authorities also maintained that the Old Marquis¡¯s union with his equal wife had not received their approval; it was solely his personal endeavor. Consequently, the descendant of his equal wife was considered not a legitimate son but rather a concubine¡¯s offspring.
This implied that, upon the Old Marquis¡¯s passing, the pce would no longer be burdened with the substantial annual financial support required by the Marquis Mansion.
As the Old Marquis advanced in age and the Lin family¡¯s influence continued to ascend, he grew increasingly anxious.
This anxiety drove him to contemte the idea of locating his biological son.
Upon reuniting with them, the Old Marquis was undeniably ted. He genuinely aspired to enhance their quality of life and urgently wished for them to acknowledge their ancestral ties by returning to the Marquis Mansion.
However, upon learning of the injustices inflicted by his equal wife upon his third brother, he found himself torn. He struggled to punish her, both for his own reputation and out of the love he still held for her.
Third Brother¡¯s assertion held truth. As younger generations, they did not possess the authority to censure the Old Marquis, but they certainly retained the prerogative to choose and honor their father.
Given their father¡¯s departure from the Marquis Mansion, they unequivocally could not return to that household to pay homage to their forebears.
Hence, their aspiration was to establish their own legacy, one that would resoundingly demonstrate their self-sufficiency, independence from the Marquis Mansion, and capacity to achieve distinction.
During their time in the capital, they visited the Lin Mansion and met with their granduncle, who supported their decision to disassociate from the
Marquis Mansion¡¯s lineage..
Chapter 331 - 331: He Will Definitely Get Qin Zhenzhen’s Heart
Chapter 331 - 331: He Will Definitely Get Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s Heart
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After Qin Silong and Su Bin were sent to the military camp, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin soon returned to their prefecture.
Qin Zhenzhen persisted in her business endeavors to earn a living.
Mr. Chen, recognizing the need for additional support in managing both sides of the business, introduced twopetent individuals to Qin Zhenzhen.
Meanwhile, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eldest brother¡¯s family had also relocated to the prefecture capital, joining her parents. Her business swiftly expanded to reach the provincial capital.
To prepare for the future, she invested in a shop and a house in the provincial capital for added stability.
Su Bin, on the other hand, openly pursued his studies while ndestinely overseeing an intelligencework that spanned the entire nation. His activities included gathering information, selling intelligence, issuing warnings to corrupt officials, and opportunistically extracting concessions from them. As a result, Su Bin¡¯s ie grew exponentially.
In less than half a year, he had fully repaid the funds he had ¡°borrowed¡± from the Marquis Mansion. His generosity extended to his subordinates, as he not only acquired the family business for them but also established a reward system. His employees hailed him as a conscientious and caring leader.
Su Bin did not conceal these developments from Qin Zhenzhen. Upon learning of his aplishments, she viewed Su Bin in a new light.
Contrary to the money-loving viin depicted in the book, Su Bin¡¯s true character had clearly transformed. It was evident that a change in mindset could lead to a change in one¡¯s nature.
Pleased with his current financial sess, Su Bin smiled at Qin Zhenzhen and remarked, ¡°Wife, there¡¯s no need for you to repay the money I borrowed from the Marquis Mansion. Consider it my betrothal gift to you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen cast a sidelong nce at him, her expression determined. ¡°We agreed to borrow it back then, and I intend to honor that agreement. I¡¯ll not only repay the principal but also the interest!¡±
She couldn¡¯t help but think it was too early for him to offer a betrothal gift when she hadn¡¯t fully epted him yet.
Despite her stance, Su Bin maintained his warm smile. ¡°Very well, my dear.
Once you¡¯ve repaid it, I¡¯ll even add a little extra.¡±
He envisioned a future where his wealth would be shared with his wife. His growing confidence in winning Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart filled him with determination.
He silently thanked Grandma Qin for her earlier suggestion. After all, how could two people who shared a bed not develop feelings for each other?
Even though he had moved to the academy, he made a point of returning home asionally to spend the night with his wife, much to the amusement of his ssmates who thought he couldn¡¯t bear to be apart from her.
Little did they know that these nights were a bittersweet torment for Su Bin. He had noticed that Qin Zhenzhen often rolled around and kicked off the nket in her sleep, especially when the weather was chilly. She would unconsciously snuggle up to him for warmth, and he couldn¡¯t resist covering her.
His concern for her well-being warred with his desire to be close to her.
However, he always restrained himself, fearing her potential embarrassment upon waking. Thus, he would rise before dawn and retire to the study to read.
This arrangement persisted for a while before Qin Zhenzhen discovered it.
One night, as Qin Zhenzhen shifted in her sleep and came closer, Su Bin, as usual, covered her with the nket. They shared the same bed, and in the darkness, he found himself yearning to kiss her.
As he drew nearer, it seemed his warm breath stirred her from slumber. She gently pushed him away.
¡°How could you renege on your word? You promised not to do anything like that to me!¡±
Su Bin defended himself earnestly. ¡°What have I done? I didn¡¯t embrace you, nor did I kiss you. I merely covered you with a nket.. Should I just let you freeze? Is that what you want?¡±
Chapter 332 - 332: Provincial Examination (1)
Chapter 332 - 332: Provincial Examination (1)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen challenged him, ¡°So, why did you cover me with your nket instead of using mine?¡±
Su Bin gently reminded her, ¡°Look at your nket now. It¡¯s slipped away, and if I try to cover you with it, I¡¯ll undoubtedly wake you up. Then you might use me of something else.¡±
Only then did Qin Zhenzhen realize that she had instinctively used her own nket as padding.
Observing Su Bin¡¯s innocent expression, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel a touch of embarrassment.
She also conceded that Su Bin had a point. If he attempted to adjust her nket, she would likely stir awake.
However, Qin Zhenzhen posed another question that left Su Bin momentarily flustered. ¡°Did you just try to kiss me?¡±
Su Bin blushed and stammered, ¡°I didn¡¯t¡
His evasion was transparent, and Qin Zhenzhen saw through it.
However, she didn¡¯t want to be angry; instead, she found herself enjoying the yful exchange.
¡°In that case,¡± she teased, ¡°do you still desire the pensation¡¯ you mentioned earlier?¡±
Quickly regaining hisposure, Su Bin replied, ¡°No, I don¡¯t need anypensation¡¡±
Inwardly, he thought, ¡®I want you,¡¯ but he couldn¡¯t muster the courage to speak those three words aloud.
Slightly disappointed yet amused, Qin Zhenzhen suggested, ¡°Well then, let¡¯s just go back to sleep.¡±
Secretly, she felt delighted. Su Bin¡¯s adorableness warmed her heart.
She admired his self-control; it was a clear sign of respect. It showed how much he truly wanted to be with her.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s reaction left Su Bin baffled.
He couldn¡¯t discern what was amiss with his responses. Why was she looking at him like that?
Admittedly, he did harbor a secret desire to kiss her, but he anticipated that if he voiced it, she might p him and hurl another round of admonishments, calling him a ¡°beast.¡±
As for mentioning making it up to her, didn¡¯t that imply he was agreeing to a divorce?
Su Bin mulled over itter and couldn¡¯t help but feel secretly delighted. He interpreted Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s reactions as a tacit agreement to share a bed with him. His thoughts turned to how he could take things further.
However, summer arrived, bringing scorching nights where Qin Zhenzhen no longer sought his warmth or even bothered with a light covering. The extravagant hope of sharing the same bed seemed to have evaporated.
Nevertheless, Su Bin remained willing to return home for the asional night¡¯s rest.
By autumn, when cooler weather returned, the need for nkets resurfaced. Su Bin took the opportunity to visit home more frequently.
But Qin Zhenzhen had different ns. She said, ¡°The autumn examinations are approaching. You should stay at the academy for now and focus on your studies. Don¡¯te home.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t you want to prove yourself? This is the final sprint. Don¡¯t let anything distract you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen relished her role as a supportive spouse.
Su Bin resembled a high school senior preparing for college entrance exams, harboring confidence but also insecurities. Her words served as a timely reminder.
He nodded earnestly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my dear. I¡¯ll surely excel in the High
Schr examination and bring honor to you!¡±
Of course, she knew that he also aimed to bring glory to their father, even if he didn¡¯t say it outright.
Qin Zhenzhen chose not to expose his hidden motivations and simply replied, ¡°Alright, best of luck!¡±
August arrived, heralding the time for the provincial capital examination.
Naturally, Qin Zhenzhen apanied Su Bin to the provincial capital, and they were inseparable. They were determined to present a united front.
On this asion, they brought along Su Qing and Su Ning.
Su Qing yed a pivotal role in helping Qin Zhenzhen manage her business. He was no stranger to the provincial capital, having visited it frequently, and thus possessed a deep familiarity with the city.
For Su Ning, it was her first visit to the provincial capital, and she found everything delightfully novel. Fortunately, Su Qing was readily avable to answer her numerous questions.
The contrast between the provincial capital and their home prefecture was striking.
Towering multi-story buildings graced the cityscape, and carriages adorned the streets, exuding opulence far beyond what they had witnessed before.
The attire of the city¡¯s affluent residents surpassed even that of the local nobility in the prefecture capital.
In essence, the prosperity of the provincial capital rivaled that of the capital itself..
Chapter 333 - 333: Provincial Examination (2)
Chapter 333 - 333: Provincial Examination (2)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Inparison to the number of Cultivated Talents in the prefecture, the candidates who arrived to participate in the provincial examination were notably more impressive.
Three days remained before themencement of the examination, and the provincial capital bustled with schrs wearing kerchiefs and their apanying rtives.
It was evident that those with exceptional talent were predominantly from affluent backgrounds. Impoverished schrs often found themselves borrowing funds for travel and examination fees, rendering it impossible for them to have rtives or friends apany them on this arduous journey.
Su Bin¡¯s circumstances were vastly different from the previous year when he sat for the Cultivated Talent examination.
Back then, as a Cultivated Talent hopeful, he opted to reside in a modest dormitory provided by the prefectural school. He aimed to economize and harbored fears of potential foul y.
Sleep proved elusive throughout the night due to the resounding snores of fellow candidates.
Now, however, he enjoyed theforts of his own home.
Qin Zhenzhen personally prepared meals, each consisting of four dishes and a soup¡ªnutritious and safe, with no room forcency, particrly regarding pre-exam sustenance.
This caution stemmed from the nature of the provincial examination, whichprised three consecutive exams, each spanning three days.
For this duration, they would eat and lodge within the Gong Courtyard, emerging only once the exams concluded.
During these three days, candidates couldn¡¯t leave to dine, and no one could deliver food to them. Consequently, they brought their own supplies, including steamed buns and cakes.
Inside the examination hall, there were no provisions for heating food, and even drinking water was limited to the cold variety.
As such, the imperial examination not only assessed literary prowess but also demanded physical resilience. Without good physical health, enduring nine days and six nights within the examination hall would prove exceptionally challenging.
The provincial examination was also known as the ¡°Country Examination¡± because it took ce in the autumn, and it was often referred to as the ¡°Fall Quarter Examination.¡±
The first round of the examination was scheduled for August 9th, the second round for August 12th, and the third round for August 15th.
On the evening before August 9th, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning diligently prepared all the food that Su Bin had requested.
Anticipating the rigorous scrutiny by officials who would inspect the food upon entry to the examination hall and check for hidden notes, they decided against making meat buns. The fear was that if a meat bun got crushed, it would significantly affect Su Bin¡¯s appetite.
Thin pancakes, on the other hand, were a different story. Qin Zhenzhen had Su Qing precut the pancakes into noodle-like shapes in advance to prevent them from being torn apart by examiners with dirty hands.
Bacon rice balls were also on the menu, and they had been pre-scattered for the first day¡¯s meal.
For the second and third days, Su Bin had pancakes and jerky to sustain him; the food basket was well-stocked.
Bright and early in the morning, Qin Zhenzhen, Su Qing, Su Ning, and Su Bin¡¯s two secret guards apanied him to the examination hall.
Due to the stringent security measures, the examinees formed four long lines as they entered the examination hall.
Intrigued by the novelty of the security procedures, Su Ning was pulled to the front by Qin Zhenzhen to witness how thoroughly the soldiers inspected the candidates.
Having already experienced it once before, Qin Zhenzhen found nothing unusual.
However, for Su Ning, it was an eye-opening experience. The soldiers treated each candidate as if they were prisoners, demanding the removal of hats, shoes, clothes, distribution materials, nkets, and all other tools. The nkets had to be singleyer, with no concealed items, and even the writing brush tubes were meticulously scrutinized.
Then, his food basket underwent a meticulous inspection. Each item of food was thoroughly crushed and flipped through multiple times to ensure that no hidden notes were concealed within.
Thankfully, Su Bin¡¯s food had already been broken into pieces beforehand. After the soldiers probed the fragments with chopsticks and found nothing amiss, they permitted him to enter the examination hall.
However, after the examination concluded, Su Bin resembled every other candidate, sharing in their collective disheveled state.
The hurried transition to the next examinee left him in a pitiable condition, forced to walk briskly with tousled hair, barefoot, clutching his disarrayed clothing, nket, shoes, and other tools.
In appearance, they bore a striking resemnce to beggars..
Chapter 334 - 334: Provincial Examination (3)
Chapter 334 - 334: Provincial Examination (3)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin, burdened with his possessions like a destitute soul, made his way into the venue clutching the precious scrolls. Upon crossing the threshold of what they facetiously called a ¡°room,¡± Su Bin found himself trapped within, as the exit to the ¡°room¡± had been securely sealed.
Until the examinees submitted their papers, they were confined within this cramped space, ironically referred to as a ¡°room.¡± In reality, it resembled more of a miniature cage, measuring a mere six feet in height, four feet in length, and three feet in width. It allowed only enough room for a single person to sit upright, with no possibility of stretching out.
In essence, it resembled a diminutive cell, furnished with only a tiny table and a stool. Adjacent to the table sat a meager water basin containing enough water to sustain one for three days. There was also a bucket (as toilet), serving a rather unsavory purpose.
To be frank, surviving inside this confined space for three days, utilizing the table as a makeshift bed, was a challenge in itself. Yet, enduring the unrelenting presence of one¡¯s own waste for the duration truly tested the mettle of those who aspired to be Cultivated Talents.
Su Bin meticulously arranged all his belongings on the table before changing into his attire, donning his shoes, securing his hair, and tidying the disarray that had urred during his entry.
With everything in order, hemenced the task of tackling the exam papers. The initial round involved responding to seven chapters of the eight-legged essay, three questions from the ¡°Four Books,¡± and four questions from the ¡°Five ssics.¡±
For Su Bin, this posed no significant challenge. However,sting until the third day was no easy feat. Su Bin handed in his papers ahead of schedule and exited the malodorous enclosure.
Despite submitting her own exam paper, she was not permitted to leave immediately. Instead, she waited in the lounge until the allotted time had passed. Though the lounge offered little more than a few stools for seating, the air within was significantly fresherpared to the cramped ¡°room.¡±
In any event, those eight-legged essays posed no significant challenge for Su Bin. Consequently, he promptly submitted his papers and headed for the lounge, eager to breathe in the refreshing air.
Su Bin was the first to turn in his test paper. It didn¡¯t take long before other candidates followed suit, one after the other.
After enduring three grueling days of examination, the once-enthusiastic examinees now appeared somewhat worn out and dispirited. Conversation among them had dwindled, primarily due to their exhaustion and hunger.
However, Su Bin stood out from the rest. He exuded vitality and appeared remarkablyposed.
One of the examinees couldn¡¯t help but inquire, ¡°Brother, did you bring ginseng or other revitalizing tonics with you?¡±
It was rumored that well-off examinees from affluent families would procure high-quality ginseng, cutting it into pieces. They would asionally pop a few into their mouths to keep their energy levels up during the exam.
Su Bin shook his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t bring such items.¡±
¡°Then why are you so full of energy? Do you find the questions too easy?¡±
While the straightforward exam papers were one factor, Su Bin¡¯s robust physical condition yed a more significant role.
Su Bin grinned and responded, ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s because my wife prepared delicious and nourishing food for me.¡±
The inquiring examinee instantly disyed an envious expression.
This young man appeared to be around seventeen, considerably younger than himself. Yet, he had a wife, and not just any wife, but a skilled one at that.
Another examinee couldn¡¯t resist asking, ¡°Your wife prepared your food? But judging by your ent, you¡¯re from Meijiang Prefecture City, while you seem to be in the provincial capital.¡±
Meijiang Prefecture City was a mountainous region, primarily impoverished. Those hailing from there typically faced condescension unless they possessed wealth and influence.
The tone of this inquiring examinee carried an air of superiority that didn¡¯t sit well with Su Bin. ¡°Although my hometown is in Meijiang Prefecture City, my family owns properties in both the provincial and capital cities.¡±
The candidate found his words rather intriguing, and curiosity got the better of him. As he observed Su Bin¡¯s attire and demeanor more closely, it became abundantly clear that Su Bin was unquestionably a wealthy and influential young man. In an instant, the candidate was eager to establish a friendly
connection with him..
Chapter 335 - 335: Meat Bun
Chapter 335 - 335: Meat Bun
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°I¡¯m Zhao Chunyang,¡± he began, with a hint of arrogance. ¡°I¡¯m 22 years old, and I reside on East Street¡¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t quite warm up to someone with such a haughty demeanor.
Coincidentally, the timing was opportune. The door to the Gong Courtyard swung open.
Su Bin rose to his feet, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, let¡¯s continue our conversation next time. My wife is likely waiting for me outside, and I mustn¡¯t keep her waiting.¡± With those words, he departed without a backward nce.
Zhao Chunyang felt displeased and muttered under his breath, ¡°Nouveau riche!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen, Su Ning, and Su Qing arrived to escort Su Bin home. Spotting their third brother emerging as part of the first group, Su Ning enthusiastically called out, ¡°Third Brother, we¡¯re here! We¡¯ve brought you some freshly baked meat buns. Third Sister-inw made them herself!¡±
Su Bin also noticed Qin Zhenzhen and the others.
He couldn¡¯t help but think that his wife grew more beautiful with each passing day. In the midst of the crowd, she stood as a picturesque sight.
His eyes immediately locked onto her.
Su Bin hastened toward her, his gaze unwavering as he approached Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Dear wife!¡±
¡°Sixth Sister!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen gazed at him intently, unable to shake the feeling that she could never tire of looking at Su Bin¡¯s face.
Compared to the other examinees who had endured three days of confinement, Su Bin appeared much more vibrant, hisplexion still rosy.
All thanks to her revitalizing spirit water.
During her time with Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen made it a daily routine to provide him with her special spirit-infused water. She incorporated it into the dishes and soups they consumed, and the entire family reaped the benefits.
Initially, Su Bin had been a slender young man, but over the course of a little more than a year, he had transformed into a robust and energetic individual.
Notably, he discovered an abundance of vitality coursing through his body.
Whether it was riding a horse or running, he never experienced fatigue.
Moreover, he quickly mastered the martial arts techniques Qin Zhenzhen had imparted to him, finding them to be highly effective. He had grown confident that, in the face of danger, he wouldn¡¯t be easily subdued within a mere two or three moves.
At the very least, his stamina had increased several-foldpared to before, a testament to the transformation in his physical capabilities.
He couldn¡¯t help but specte on the cause of these changes, and he couldn¡¯t shake the belief that Qin Zhenzhen had given him something exceptional to eat. The fragrance that enveloped her, akin to that of an Immortal Pill, convinced him that the food she provided held simr qualities. ¡°Here you go,¡± Su Bin handed over the food basket and clothes to Qin
Zhenzhen.
Her husband¡¯s newfound infatuation with her was somewhat overwhelming, causing her cheeks to flush with embarrassment. She couldn¡¯t help but wonder if this level of attachment was necessary, considering they hadn¡¯t even had any physical contact.
Regaining hisposure, Su Bin expressed his gratitude with courtesy, ¡°Thank you, wife.¡±
He hadn¡¯t brought much with him as they entered the rooms, their seating arranged ording to assigned numbers, a pattern that would persist for the next three exams.
Consequently, they refrained from bringing along their nkets, examination tools, candles, and other daily essentials. The sole items they carried were their food baskets and the clothing they had on.
¡°Third Brother, are you feeling hungry now? Would you like to indulge in some buns?¡± Su Ning presented the food basket as if unveiling a treasure, releasing the mouthwatering aroma of meat buns into the air.
Su Bin¡¯s eyes brightened, and he discreetly licked his lips.
The scent had a simr effect on the neighboring examinees, causing them to salivate. After enduring three days of cold, unappetizing rations, hunger had taken a strong hold on them.
Yet, the dignity of schrs prevented them from openly asking for food. Those who had family in the provincial capital eagerly sought out their rtives, hoping that their own loved ones would thoughtfully bring them a food basket as well..
Chapter 336 - 336: Eating Is a Blessing
Chapter 336 - 336: Eating Is a Blessing
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Candidates who hailed from distant locales had no family members to collect them, leaving them green with envy.
Their steps quickened in response, spurred on by the prospect of returning to their inn for a much-needed wash-up and a hearty meal. Additionally, they had to purchase provisions to sustain them for the next three days.
Soon, they would return to their amodations and retire early, preparing themselves for the forting arduous challenge.
Of course, there were a few individuals with unwavering willpower who resisted the temptation to sleep early. Instead, they opted to read a bit longer and engage in somest-minute preparations, following a diligent routine akin to a final Buddhist act.
Su Bin¡¯s hunger pangs were undeniable, but he restrained himself, signaling that he could wait.
¡°There¡¯s no rush; I¡¯ll eat during the carriage ride,¡± he assured.
Inside the food basket, he noticed a pair of chopsticks.
Qin Zhenzhen must have thoughtfully included them for his convenience.
Among the entire family, Qin Zhenzhen was the paragon of cleanliness. She prioritized hygiene even more than Su Bin did, often instructing them to wash their hands before and after meals.
Yet, during the three days of examination seclusion, he had refrained from washing his hands. It wasn¡¯t due to neglect of hygiene but rather a conscious effort to conserve the water in the vat.
The vat¡¯s water supply had to suffice for nine days, and while it typically proved ample, he couldn¡¯t risk any mishaps. Should he faint from thirst during the examination, the consequences would far outweigh any benefits.
Under these circumstances, eating the bun with his bare hands was unfeasible. Consuming it with chopsticks in public might not align with the refined behavior expected of schrs, but it was a pragmatic choice.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but suppress a smile, her lips slightly pursed.
Su Bin embodied not only the dignified demeanor of a schr but also the nobility of a gentleman. Even though he was clearly hungry, he refrained from eating in the street like amon peddler, eschewing the prospect of getting his hands dirty.
¡°In that case, let¡¯s board the carriage,¡± she suggested.
Su Ning promptly concealed the food basket, her gaze filled with concern as she regarded her third brother.
Su Bin had endured three days of confinement with only dry rations to sustain him, and the sight of the steaming meat buns had nearly caused him to salivate. However, he refrained from indulging himself, perhaps not wanting to appear as if he were devouring the food in front of his third sister-inw.
¡°Third Brother, Third Sister-inw, let¡¯s not dy any further. Fourth Brother is waiting over there. He¡¯s already secured a carriage,¡± Su Ning urged, tightly holding onto Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand.
Her expression betrayed genuine concern for her third brother¡¯s well-being, fearing he might suffer from hunger.
¡°Agreed, wife, let¡¯s proceed,¡± Su Bin responded naturally, sping Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand as they headed towards Su Qing¡¯s waiting carriage.
Su Qing had stationed the carriage near the entrance of the Gong Courtyard, and upon spotting Qin Zhenzhen and the others from a distance, he stood within the carriage and waved. ¡°Over here! Third Brother, Third Sister-inw, I¡¯m right here!¡±
A multitude of carriages had converged to collect the examinees, rendering the sceneparable to the bustling chaos outside a modern college entrance examination hall.
As Qin Zhenzhen and the others maneuvered their way through the crowd, they were taken aback to spot Wang Yizhi.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s countenance appeared far from well. His pallid and emaciated face resembled that of a corpse.
It was evident that his performance in the examination had likely not been favorable. Alternatively, his portly wife might have taken a toll on his health, rendering him ill-prepared for the rigors of three days in confinement.
Apanying Wang Yizhi was his rotund wife, nked by a maidservant and two attendants.
Despite her previous intentions to shed pounds ¨C she had even opened an ount at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s establishment, investing a substantial sum ¨C her figure remained as robust as ever, attracting attention.
Initially, she had embarked on her weight loss journey with determination, but eventually, she couldn¡¯t persist. The vigorous exercises at the health center and the hardships of dieting may have both taken a toll on her resolve. Moreover, the prospect of future financial expenses might have further discouraged her from pursuing treatment.
She had evidently heard someone saying to her that indulgence in food was a form of bliss, equating weight loss with the forfeiture of such pleasure..
Chapter 337 - 337: Pretend Not to See Him
Chapter 337 - 337: Pretend Not to See Him
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Rumor had it that Wang Yizhi¡¯s plump wife had been counseled by an expert, who conveyed the notion that indulging in food was a form of blessing, and conversely, shedding pounds constituted a simr form of blessedness.
If she had doubts about her ability to bear children, she was content with that oue. She believed that with her family¡¯s wealth, she could simply procure an already-made son; there was no need to endure the hardships of childbirth. After all, delivering a child was a daunting task, and if not handled correctly, it could lead to a visit to the Gates of Death.
Qin Zhenzhen had only received two installments of money from her, and since the woman had declined further treatment, Qin Zhenzhen had no intention of coercing her.
Truth be told, she had no desire to assist individuals like Wang Yizhi and his wife in producing offspring. People of their ilk were far from exemry, and even if they did have a child, their values were unlikely to ensure the child¡¯s proper upbringing. Such a child might be a detriment to society as they grew older.
¡°Husband, how did you perform? Were there any questions you couldn¡¯t answer?¡± Wang Yizhi¡¯s wife¡¯s first words upon seeing him were not words of
concern but rather her impatient inquiry about his performance. She disyed
Wang Yizhi¡¯s heart turned to ashes. His physical condition had reached its limits, and as he nearly copsed to the ground, he rolled his eyes in a near faint.
Fortunately, the two attendants who hade to collect him swiftly stepped in, supporting him on either side.
¡°You feebleling! You¡¯re utterly worthless!¡±
¡°Who hasn¡¯t endured three days and three nights in there?¡±
¡°Look at them. Not one is in your pitiful state after just one examination.¡±
¡°Mark my words, if you fail to secure a position in the High Schr examination, I¡¯ll divorce you!¡±
Wang Yizhi remained in a groggy and muted state,cking the energy to offer a retort and too fearful to do so.
As he was assisted into the carriage by two servants, his portly wife let out a stream of curses. ¡°How unlucky! If I had known you were such a weakling, I wouldn¡¯t have chosen you!¡±
Wang Yizhi had initially attracted her with his looks; he possessed the air of a handsome young master. With a bit of grooming, he exuded an aura of affluence. Whether it was nighttime activities in bed or appearances in public during the day, she derived a sense of aplishment from their rtionship.
Another reason she had been drawn to Wang Yizhi was his modest literary talent, leading her to believe that he would ascend to an official position in the future. As long as he achieved the status of High Schr, her family could offer financial contributions to secure him an official position, and she would be the wife of an official. If they were to have a child as good-looking as Wang Yizhi, it would be an even more worthwhile investment.
However, she hadn¡¯t anticipated Wang Yizhi¡¯s frail health and his inability to endure her demands.
During this period, she had found another man to satisfy her needs, affording Wang Yizhi ample time to concentrate on his studies. After losing hope of bearing a child, she desperately hoped that Wang Yizhi could achieve an official position and return.
Upon seeing Wang Yizhi, Su Bin felt a sense of revulsion. He hastily entered the carriage, wanting to put the sight of Wang Yizhi behind him.
Su Ning shared simr sentiments, her heart heavy with ill will. Her former brother-inw was in such a pitiable state, yet she felt no sympathy for him. Instead, she harbored a desire to scold him for the suffering he deserved.
Inside the carriage, the four upants sat on either side, an ufortable atmosphere lingering among them.
The carriage in front had yet to move.
Su Qing offered an exnation, saying, ¡°I¡¯m not entirely sure. The carriage in front belongs to Wang Yi¡¯s family.¡±
Su Bin chimed in, ¡°If I had known, I would have kept my distance. It¡¯s unfortunate toe across him.
Su Bin offered a reassuring smile. ¡°Let¡¯s just pretend we didn¡¯t see him. We shouldn¡¯t let him affect our mood.¡¯
Su Ning swiftly agreed, diverting the conversation. ¡°Third Brother is right. Let¡¯s ignore him. You must be hungry, Third Brother. Hurry, wash your hands and enjoy those buns.¡±
¡°Hehe, Third Sister-inw prepared this water,¡± Su Ning added, pointing out the water container in the carriage. It appeared that Qin Zhenzhen had thoughtfully brought it along for the purpose of washing hands.
¡°Thank you, wife,¡± Su Bin responded with gratitude.
Qin Zhenzhen cast him a yful nce. ¡°Behave yourself. Wash your hands and eat promptly..¡±
Chapter 338 - 338: Disregarding Her Life
Chapter 338 - 338: Disregarding Her Life
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
As the second examination approached, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning, in their customary fashion, apanied Su Bin to the examination site.
To their surprise, they once again crossed paths with Wang Yizhi. This time, Wang Yizhi¡¯s rotund wife had opted not to send him off personally; instead, she dispatched two servants in her stead.
Wang Yizhi¡¯s condition, however, appeared far from robust. He seemed dejected, hisplexion pallid, and his gait somewhat unsteady. He was entering the examination in such a state¡ªdid he have a death wish?
Su Ning muttered, ¡°What rotten luck to run into him again.¡±
This time, Su Bin remained unperturbed by Wang Yizhi¡¯s presence. He acted as if he didn¡¯t recognize him and proceeded to submit his food basket for inspection.
Qin Zhenzhen, observing Wang Yizhi¡¯s demeanor, could tell that he would not endure three days of confinement. Mental exhaustion would likely leave him dizzy and disoriented. If he chose to forfeit the examination voluntarily and seek medical attention, he might recover.
However, should he persist inpleting the examination, his life could be in jeopardy. In ancient times, many examinees sumbed to the rigors of the examination hall.
Ultimately, Wang Yizhi¡¯s choice would hinge on whether he valued his life more than his future.
After escorting Su Bin into the examination hall, Su Qing returned to Meijiang Prefecture City. His role in managing their family¡¯s business there demanded his presence.
His trip to the provincial capital had been prompted by business matters.
Upon the conclusion of the second examination, only Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning arrived to collect Su Bin.
After enduring another three days of rigorous examination, the examinees appeared even more pitiable than before. Moreover, a noticeable stench clung to each of them.
After Su Bin and the others emerged from the examination hall, they consciously maintained some distance from Qin Zhenzhen. Su Bin was concerned that she might detect an unpleasant odor.
He exined helplessly, ¡°The bucket in the room was emptyst time, and they probably keep it that way for three days. The smell is really¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen quickly grasped the situation. It exined why all the examinees seemed to carry an unpleasant odor.
One of the examinees piped up, ¡°If I ever attain a high-ranking official position in the future, the first thing I¡¯ll do is reform the examination hall rules. That bucket must be emptied immediately after each examination.¡±
¡°The water in the vat should also be changed after every test.¡±
The confined space containing the water vat and bucket was narrow indeed. Not only did it test the examinees¡¯ endurance when it came to drinking water, but it also challenged their stomachs.
Qin Zhenzhen privately chuckled at the thought. Perhaps only in such an unforgiving environment could candidates with robust physical fitness and unwavering mental resilience be selected to shoulder the weighty responsibility of governance.
Surprisingly, as they were preparing to leave, they once again encountered Wang Yizhi.
Soldiers were escorting Wang Yizhi out of the examination hall.
Initially, they hadn¡¯t identified the person being carried out as Wang Yizhi. It was only due to the conversations of some examinees.
¡°What¡¯s the name of the guy being carried out?¡±
¡°I recognize him. His name is Wang Yizhi. He came from Meijiang Prefecture City. He brought his illness into the examination hall. He should¡¯ve left a long time ago, but he refused.¡±
¡°My room was next to his. One day, a soldier noticed he couldn¡¯t hold on any longer and tried to convince him to leave, but he insisted onpleting the exam.¡±
Even though the examinees were confined to small enclosures upon entering the examination hall, there were still individuals monitoring their well-being from above. The government didn¡¯t view schrs¡¯ lives as expendable, especially within the context of the examination hall. If anyone was found unconscious in their ¡°room,¡± they would be promptly carried out for medical attention.
Perhaps someone could not take it anymore and had no choice but to knock on the door for help. Immediately, soldiers came to bring him out.
He did not expect Wang Yizhi to disregard his life..
Chapter 339 - 339: Wang Yizhi Is Dead
Chapter 339 - 339: Wang Yizhi Is Dead
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin couldn¡¯t fathom how Wang Yizhi could prioritize fame and fortune over his own well-being.
Perhaps it was because his rotund wife had issued that ultimatum about divorcing him if he failed to secure a ce as a High Schr. If he were divorced, he would be left with nothing, and so he chose to take this dangerous path.
It seemed to align with the saying: ¡°A desperate person will do anything.¡±
Coincidentally, the third examination fell on the Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated on the 15th of August.
Qin Zhenzhen and the others had already observed the Mid -Autumn Festival the previous night, enjoying mooncakes and festivities.
Su Ning even made a wish to the moon, expressing her desire for her third brother to sessfully achieve the status of a High Schr and for her third brother and third sister-inw to be blessed with a son soon, ensuring their family¡¯s well-being.
Her wishes also extended to her own future, yearning to marry the most handsome man.
Following her final wish, Su Ning found herself blushing, chiding herself for her own greed.
After all, their second brother was the most handsome man she had everid eyes on. Could she possibly aspire to marry someone even more attractive than him? Such a prospect seemed entirely unattainable.
In Su Ning¡¯s mind, it was utterly impossible. In this world, no man could surpass the handsomeness of their second brother.
Observing Su Ning¡¯s blush, Qin Zhenzhen had a good idea of what she had wished for. This young girl must have made a promise concerning her future marriage.
Ah, youngdies in ancient times indeed disyed a touch of precociousness.
Perhaps influenced by Su Ning, Qin Zhenzhen too directed her wish toward the moon.
She hoped that Su Bin, the supposed viin, would never sumb to evil. She prayed that Su Ning, the infatuated girl from the original story, would never fall for the male lead. And above all, she wished for the continued well-being of their family.
In addition to these wishes, she silently hoped that the distant crown prince, based in the capital, would harbor no ill intentions toward her.
Su Bin, too, faced the moon and seemed to be uttering something, though he did not sp his hands together.
Curious, Su Ning inquired, ¡°Third Brother, did you make a wish as well? What did you wish for?¡±
Su Bin affectionately ruffled her hair. ¡°Silly girl, if you say your wish aloud, it won¡¯te true.¡±
Su Ning persisted, ¡°But you made a wish too, even if you didn¡¯t fold your palms. If your heart isn¡¯t sincere, it won¡¯t work.¡±
After some contemtion, Su Bin joined his palms together and silently made a wish within his heart.
His wish was simple yet profound: he yearned for a long life spent together with his beloved wife in this world.
On the afternoon of the third exam, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning went to pick up Su Bin as usual.
There were also many family members of the candidates waiting outside the examination hall.
Before the door of the examination hall opened, they heard bad news.
Wang Yizhi poisoned the food in the afternoon. At noon, he and his fat wife died at the same time.
One of them was also an examinee from Meijiang Prefecture City and happened to stay in the same inn as Wang Yizhi and the others.
This examinee was also apanied by his family. His family told him what had happened.
¡°Wang Yizhi, who was carried out of the examination hallst time, fell sick for a few days after returning to the inn. He couldn¡¯t get up in bed and couldn¡¯t even eat.¡±
¡°Although his fat wife called a doctor to treat him, the doctor is shaking his head and saying that he probably can¡¯t be cured.¡±
¡°His wife got a servant to rent a carriage and prepared to pull him back to Meijiang Prefecture City.¡±
¡°But this morning, Wang Yizhi suddenly got up as if he hade back from an urge and said that he wanted to eat.¡±
¡°Who knew that he would put the arsenic he had prepared in his wife¡¯s bowl and quickly poison her to death?¡±
¡°When he saw that his wife was going to die, heughed wildly alone. In the end, he spat out arge mouthful of blood and died.¡±
The family members who came to pick up the examinees sighed endlessly. They felt pity for the two lives that had passed away. Then, they started to gossip about it..
Chapter 340 - 340: Worse Than a Stranger
Chapter 340 - 340: Worse Than a Stranger
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Wang Yizhi truly disyed a heartless disposition. He knew he would not survive, yet he was willing to drag his wife down with him,¡± remarked one individual.
¡°He was quite pitiable in a way. He could forsake his own life for the sake of fame and fortune,¡± another opined.
¡°If his wife hadn¡¯t pressured him so relentlessly, perhaps he wouldn¡¯t havee to this end,¡± added one of Wang Yizhi¡¯s former innmates.
¡°Heartbreaking. It¡¯s a tale of one willing to strive and the other ready to suffer, neither of them truly virtuous, ¡± the innmate briefly exined, touching upon Wang Yizhi¡¯s abandonment of his ex-wife.
The family members present couldn¡¯t help but criticize Wang Yizhi, expressing a consensus that he and his wife had brought their misfortunes upon themselves.
¡°Wang Yizhi certainly has no luck. He left his ex-wife, who was from the prestigious Hou family, nearly driven to her death and abandoned by him. This retribution is well-deserved,¡± one person asserted.
¡°Indeed, not even the heavens would pardon an ungrateful soul like him,¡± another concurred.
The person sharing this information continued, ¡°My son and Wang Yizhi were ssmates, and they used to have a decent rtionship. However, ever since he met his corpulent wife, he changed. He became vain and aspired to live a wealthy person¡¯s life. He would stop at nothing to achieve his ambitions, even daring to harm his own wife.¡±
¡°In my view, his fat wife has been the bane of his existence,¡± they sighed.
The family members empathized, remarking, ¡°The sudden deaths of both masters must have thrown their servants and maids into utter turmoil.¡±
¡°That¡¯s right. One servant returned to report, while the other reported to the authorities. After an investigation, the officials confirmed that it was Wang Yizhi who poisoned his wife and subsequently sumbed to exhaustion.¡± ¡°Their deaths bear no connection to anyone else.¡±
¡°The inn is truly cursed, now serving as their makeshift morgue. Two deaths in quick session ¡ª no one would dare to stay there anymore,¡± one personmented.
¡°Fortunately, most of the inn¡¯s upants were candidates who¡¯ve alreadypleted their exams. Otherwise, it would have been quite troublesome to find new lodgings at thest minute,¡± another person added.
The person who sent the message inquired, ¡°Are any of you hailing from
Meijiang Prefecture City?¡±
Several people promptly raised their hands. ¡°I¡¯m from Meijiang Prefecture
City.¡±
¡°Count me in.¡±
¡°Me too. Do you need assistance?¡±
The person nodded. ¡°We¡¯re all from Meijiang Prefecture City. Let¡¯s help each other out.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning weren¡¯t ones to meddle in other people¡¯s affairs. They typically dressed modestly and only engaged if recognized. In this case, they had no intention of arranging Wang Yizhi¡¯s funeral.
Theirck of involvement didn¡¯t stem from heartlessness, but rather the fact that Wang Yizhi had severed ties with their family. Both he and his corpulent wife had brought about their own demise.
The awaited moment had arrived. The door to the Gong Courtyard swung open.
Everything was now in the hands of fate.
In ten days, they would discover if Su Bin had sessfully secured the title of High Schr.
Examinees who had endured nine days and six nights of exams gradually filed out of the courtyard. They all appeared utterly drained, yearning for a long slumbersting three days and nights.
Su Bin emerged promptly and spotted Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning among the crowd.
Although these individuals didn¡¯t recognize Qin Zhenzhen, they recognized Su
Bin.
The Meijiang Prefecture City examinees halted Su Bin¡¯s progress, their expressions bearing a mix of concern and expectation. ¡°Su Bin, Wang Yizhi used to be your brother-inw. Now that he¡¯s passed away, don¡¯t you think you should take the initiative to arrange his funeral?¡±
Su Bin responded with an air ofposure, ¡°As you¡¯ve already mentioned, that was in the past. While it¡¯s true he was my brother-inw at one point, now he¡¯s even more estranged to me than aplete stranger..¡±
Chapter 341 - 342: So Bizarreness Is Not Born
Chapter 341 - 342: So Bizarreness Is Not Born
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Some of the examinees, particrly those from humble backgrounds with limited resources, found themselvespelled to return home prematurely. The ten-day stay and meals in the provincial capital had incurred considerable expenses.
Entering the ranks of High Schrs was the ultimate goal, and if they failed to secure a position, it would amount to a significant waste of time and resources.
Furthermore, for those fortunate enough to pass the examination and earn the prestigious title of High Schr, even upon returning to their hometowns, they would receive a grand reception. Local officials would joyfully present the silver awarded by the authorities and deliver the good news directly to their doorstep.
Yet, the chance to make an impression before the nobility of the provincial capital and the governor was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The High Schr examination urred once every three years, with only 160 individuals selected each time. Thepetition for such an esteemed title was exceptionally fierce.
Upon achieving the honor of High Schr, the governor would host a banquet in their honor, and officials would bestow silver rewards. The top ten performers would receive an elevated status, with the top three being ranked in even higher tiers.
The first ce holder, also known as the Top Scorer, received the most substantial prize money.
An ordinary High Schr was rewarded with twenty taels of silver, but the Master Top Scorer would receive an even greater sum. Whenbined, the total prize money could potentially approach nearly a thousand taels of silver.
This event also attracted the nobility of the provincial capital, many of whom were in search of potential sons-inw.
Any unmarried High Schr of appropriate age and decent appearance stood an excellent chance of being chosen. This was particrly true for the Master Top Scorer, for even if his looks were not exceptional, as long as he remained unmarried and of the right age, there were always noble families eager to betroth their daughters to him.
Even the officials in the provincial capital would entertain the idea of forming familial connections with him.
High Schrs and Cultivated Talents upied entirely different strata.
Upon ascending to the status of a Cultivated Talent, only the individual himself enjoyed the privilege of exemption from taxes, along with exemption from military service.
However, when one achieved the rank of High Schr, the benefits extended to their entire n. Compulsorybor could be waived, and substantial reductions in agricultural taxes became a reality.
The agricultural taxes in ancient times were notably burdensome.
Hence, in ancient society, if a member of a family attained the coveted title of High Schr, their status would skyrocket, and even local powerbrokers would generously allocatend to their family.
Some nobles, adept at exploiting legal loopholes, would transfer theirnds to High Schrs, ensuring tax exemptions for these properties.
Nevertheless, such a favor came at a cost.
It was almost certain that the High Schr would be expected to reciprocate withnd and mary gifts.
High Schrs reaped benefits both overtly and covertly.
Furthermore, they had the option to make donations to the government.
Those who had failed in the examination thrice consecutively could even be rmended for the esteemed position of county magistrate.
In summary, achieving the status of a High Schr was nothing short of a life -altering transformation.
On the morning of the tenth day, Qin Zhenzhen, Su Ning, and Su Bin joined the throngs of examinees at the entrance of the Gong Academy, as was customary.
ording to the storyline in the book, when the rankings were eventually unveiled, Su Bin would upy the pinnacle as the Master Top Scorer, owing to his strikingly handsome appearance. This led many nobles to extend their invitations and express their eagerness to betroth their daughters to him.
Yet, at this juncture, Su Bin had developed a peculiar aversion to women. Regardless of their beauty, he maintained a cautious three-foot distance from them. Any close proximity to a woman would trigger an immediate rash, both psychologically and physically.
Naturally, this idiosyncrasy stemmed from the residual trauma inflicted upon him by the original host¡¯s experiences.
Consequently, he politely declined all marriage proposals, leaving the hearts of the nobledies in the provincial capital shattered.
Qin Zhenzhen cast an observant nce at Su Bin, who was holding her hand, realizing that he no longer exhibited this peculiar behavior.
It became evident that quirks were not inherent traits.
Sensing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s gaze upon him, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but tighten his
grip on her hand.
¡°Wife, do I look presentable?¡±
Chapter 342 - 343: Top Scorer
Chapter 342 - 343: Top Scorer
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen blushed slightly. ¡°You look quite handsome. Are you satisfied?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s grip on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand tightened, and he smiled. ¡°You¡¯re no slouch in the looks department either. We make a perfect pair.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face grew even redder. She yfully scolded, ¡°Stop with the sweet talk. What if someone overhears you?¡±
Su Ning couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°Haha, if I can¡¯t hear it, then it¡¯s not a problem!¡±
She found immense joy in witnessing the affection between her older brother and sister-inw.
At that moment, the gates of the Gong Academy swung open, and the examinees grew restless, rushing toward the location where the rankings were to be posted. They were on the verge of discovering their fates, and excitement coursed through their veins.
However, the soldiers maintaining order halted the examinees about twenty feet away from the posting site. Subsequently, a group of soldiers emerged from the tribute courtyard carryingdders.
After a brief while, they affixed the two red lists for all to see. The examinees closest to the rankings strained to catch a glimpse, though the distance made it challenging to discern the results.
Once the soldiers had posted the rankings and removed thedder, they allowed the examinees to approach and view the bottom of the lists.
Su Bin turned to Qin Zhenzhen and said, ¡°With so many people, why don¡¯t you and Sixth Sister wait here? I¡¯ll go check the rankings on my own.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen reminded him, ¡°Don¡¯t you have a secret guard to do that for you? Is it really necessary for you to go yourself?¡±
Wasn¡¯t it a bit redundant?
However, Su Bin replied with determination, ¡°I want to see it with my own eyes and experience that moment for myself.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen yfully pursed her lips and smiled at him. ¡°I really don¡¯t think you should go, you know. The crowd is massive, and you¡¯re just a delicate schr. We don¡¯t want you to end up as a stepping stone for everyone.¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of determination. ¡°Wife, watch closely. I¡¯ll show you that I¡¯m not just a delicate schr!¡±
With determination in his eyes, he attempted to push his way into the throng.
However, the sheer number of people moring to catch a glimpse of the rankings forced Qin Zhenzhen to pull him back.
¡°It¡¯s better if you stay put. Someone will undoubtedly inquire, ¡®Who¡¯s in first ce?¡¯ and another will answer, ¡®Su Bin is in first ce!¡±¡®
¡°So, just remain where you are. No need to jostle.¡±
As if foreseeing the future, Su Bin halted in his tracks, his expression one of surprise. ¡°Wife, do you possess the gift of foresight?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen jokingly responded, ¡°Absolutely! I have the power of foresight. Do you believe me?¡±
Su Bin chuckled and nodded. He replied without a hint of modesty, ¡°I do believe you have the gift of foresight because, well, I¡¯ve just proven it!¡±
At that very moment, the crowd below the rankings erupted in cheers. These were the examinees who had spotted their names and were ovee with excitement.
Someone on the outskirts shouted loudly, ¡°May I ask who¡¯s ranked first?¡± Without hesitation, someone in the crowd responded, ¡°It¡¯s Su Bin from Plum River Prefecture City!¡±
¡°Wow! First ce is our Meijiang Prefecture City¡¯s candidate!¡±
¡°Su Bin is our ssmate!¡±
¡°We were in the same school!¡±
Su Bin was filled with tion. He embraced Qin Zhenzhen excitedly. ¡°Wife! You truly have the gift of foresight!¡±
Meanwhile, Su Bin¡¯s two secret guards had already rushed over. ¡°Young Master, you¡¯ve be the Top Scorer!¡±
The examinees whose names graced the rankings celebrated their achievements, feeling both joy for themselves and pride for their peers who had imed the top spot.
Simultaneously, there were those who harbored regrets,menting that they hadn¡¯t performed at their absolute best. Had they done so, they were convinced they could have secured a higher ranking.
Higher rankings brought not only increased prize money but also enhanced prestige in front of their fellow examinees. Most importantly, it bolstered their self-confidence and positioned them better for the uing Beijing examination next spring.
However, for the majority of examinees, disappointment loomedrge. As they scanned the red list and failed to locate their names, some sank to their knees in despair, burying their faces in their hands as tears flowed freely. Others, familiar with their fellow examinees, clung to each other, seeking sce and understanding in shared sorrow..
Chapter 343 Top Scorer
343 Top Scorer
Qin Zhenzhen blushed slightly. "You look quite handsome. Are you satisfied?"
Su Bin''s grip on Qin Zhenzhen''s hand tightened, and he smiled. "You''re no slouch in the looks department either. We make a perfect pair."
Qin Zhenzhen''s face grew even redder. She yfully scolded, "Stop with the sweet talk. What if someone overhears you?"
Su Ning couldn''t help but chuckle. "Haha, if I can''t hear it, then it''s not a problem!"
She found immense joy in witnessing the affection between her older brother and sister-inw.
At that moment, the gates of the Gong Academy swung open, and the examinees grew restless, rushing toward the location where the rankings were to be posted. They were on the verge of discovering their fates, and excitement coursed through their veins.
However, the soldiers maintaining order halted the examinees about twenty feet away from the posting site. Subsequently, a group of soldiers emerged from the tribute courtyard carryingdders.
After a brief while, they affixed the two red lists for all to see. The examinees closest to the rankings strained to catch a glimpse, though the distance made it challenging to discern the results.
Once the soldiers had posted the rankings and removed thedder, they allowed the examinees to approach and view the bottom of the lists.
Su Bin turned to Qin Zhenzhen and said, "With so many people, why don''t you and Sixth Sister wait here? I''ll go check the rankings on my own."
Qin Zhenzhen reminded him, "Don''t you have a secret guard to do that for you? Is it really necessary for you to go yourself?"
Wasn''t it a bit redundant?
However, Su Bin replied with determination, "I want to see it with my own eyes and experience that moment for myself."
Qin Zhenzhen yfully pursed her lips and smiled at him. "I really don''t think you should go, you know. The crowd is massive, and you''re just a delicate schr. We don''t want you to end up as a stepping stone for everyone."
Su Bin couldn''t help but feel a surge of determination. "Wife, watch closely. I''ll show you that I''m not just a delicate schr!"
With determination in his eyes, he attempted to push his way into the throng.
However, the sheer number of people moring to catch a glimpse of the rankings forced Qin Zhenzhen to pull him back.
"It''s better if you stay put. Someone will undoubtedly inquire, ''Who''s in first ce?'' and another will answer, ''Su Bin is in first ce!''"
"So, just remain where you are. No need to jostle."
As if foreseeing the future, Su Bin halted in his tracks, his expression one of surprise. "Wife, do you possess the gift of foresight?"
Qin Zhenzhen jokingly responded, "Absolutely! I have the power of foresight. Do you believe me?"
Su Bin chuckled and nodded. He replied without a hint of modesty, "I do believe you have the gift of foresight because, well, I''ve just proven it!"
At that very moment, the crowd below the rankings erupted in cheers. These were the examinees who had spotted their names and were ovee with excitement.
Someone on the outskirts shouted loudly, "May I ask who''s ranked first?"
Without hesitation, someone in the crowd responded, "It''s Su Bin from Plum River Prefecture City!"
"Wow! First ce is our Meijiang Prefecture City''s candidate!"
"Su Bin is our ssmate!"
"We were in the same school!"
Su Bin was filled with tion. He embraced Qin Zhenzhen excitedly. "Wife! You truly have the gift of foresight!"
Meanwhile, Su Bin''s two secret guards had already rushed over. "Young Master, you''ve be the Top Scorer!"
The examinees whose names graced the rankings celebrated their achievements, feeling both joy for themselves and pride for their peers who had imed the top spot.
Simultaneously, there were those who harbored regrets,menting that they hadn''t performed at their absolute best. Had they done so, they were convinced they could have secured a higher ranking.
Higher rankings brought not only increased prize money but also enhanced prestige in front of their fellow examinees. Most importantly, it bolstered their self-confidence and positioned them better for the uing Beijing examination next spring.
However, for the majority of examinees, disappointment loomedrge. As they scanned the red list and failed to locate their names, some sank to their knees in despair, burying their faces in their hands as tears flowed freely. Others, familiar with their fellow examinees, clung to each other, seeking sce and understanding in shared sorrow.
Chapter 344 Good News
344 Good News
At this point, a throng of people had already gathered around Su Bin and hispanions.
Su Ning eagerly retrieved the money pouch she had prepared and handed it to Su Bin.
"Third Brother, let''s toss the money quickly!"
Su Bin hoisted the money pouch above his head and flung it into the crowd.
Examinees surged forward, vying to grab hold of the scattered coins.
Seizing the moment, Su Bin guided Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning toward their waiting carriage.
He had no intention of being engulfed by the crowd of examinees and finding himself unable to depart.
Qin Zhenzhen remarked, "You threw that money pouch quite a distance."
Su Bin nodded with pride. "That''s because I''m not just an ordinary schr!"
Before they could return home, government officials dispatched messengers to convey the good news.
The announcement of the results began with the rankings of the High Schrs.
Master Top Scorer, who had clinched the first position, was thest to be informed of the good news.
While a mere two officials shared the news with the other High Schrs, a team of twelve messengers beat gongs and drums to herald the news to the Top Scorer. Their procession made quite a spectacle.
Su Bin remained unfazed. He knew it would take some time before they reached his residence.
During the examination, he had provided the provincial capital''s address as his destination.
Consequently, the good news wouldn''t be sent to Meijiang Prefecture City. Instead, it would be dispatched to the address he had specified.
Thus, they could simply await the news at home.
Some of the examinees who remained in the provincial capital had provided the addresses of their rtives, while others had chosen the inns as their designated destinations.
Everyone was eager to receive their prize money and official recognition as a High Schr as swiftly as possible.
Since there were no candidates waiting in the provincial capital, many had filled in the address of their hometowns as their destination.
Those who had secured positions on the rankings hurried back to their residences. They prepared tips for the officials who were tasked with delivering the good news and also readied the wedding money they had scattered earlier. Then, they anxiously awaited the arrival of the good news.
Regardless of their ranking, achieving the status of High Schr was a remarkable feat worth celebrating and boasting about. Offering rewards to officials and distributing gifts to spectators was amon practice.
The official who arrived to deliver the good news was ted, readily sharing kind words about titles like "Golden List" for the next year. The rewards from the candidates were In truth, Su Bin and the others had ventured out for some leisurely activities.
11:31
The following day, all the High Schrs received a letter from the governor.
usually quite substantial.
Around noon, a delegation of twelve officials arrived to deliver the good news to Su Bin.
Curious neighbors from the vicinity gathered to witness the event.
The newly anointed Top Scorer, Su Bin, personally stepped outside to receive the good news.
The sight of Su Bin left thedies and wives in the vicinity blushing. He was young and exceedingly handsome!
The men couldn''t help but feel envious and a tad jealous.
Being handsome was one thing, but being schrly and aplished added anotheryer of allure. Owning a house in the provincial capital suggested a prosperous background.
After offering gifts to the officials and distributing money to the onlookers, Su Bin instructed that the door be closed. He had always preferred to avoid crowds.
Before long, Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen''s backgrounds became the topic of discussion among the curious onlookers.
Su Bin was actually a noble son of the Marquis Mansion, while Qin Zhenzhen was a divine doctor who had cured the Empress Dowager. These two news quickly spread throughout the provincial capital.
The nobles of the provincial capital paid a visit to Su Bin and his family, eager to offer their congrattions.
However, the household servant informed them, "Master Top Scorer, Madam, and Miss have gone out."
In truth, Su Bin and the others had ventured out for some leisurely activities.
The following day, all the High Schrs received a letter from the governor.
The governor had extended an invitation to over a hundred High Schrs.
Su Bin could hardly decline such an invitation.
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning attended the gathering at the governor''s residence. Qin Zhenzhen had an extensive business rtionship with the magistrate''s wife, who also happened to be her most prominent agent in the provincial capital.
Beyond their professional ties, Qin Zhenzhen and the magistrate''s wife shared a sisterly bond. This was due in part to Qin Zhenzhen having sessfully treated the magistrate''s wife''s mother for a debilitating waist pain, a gesture that had earned her immense gratitude.
Qin Zhenzhen held a deep respect for the magistrate''s wife. Moreover, she and the governor''s family had provided invaluable assistance when Su Bin''s true identity had been revealed.
Chapter 345 A Smile
345 A Smile
During their conversation, the prefectural magistrate''s wife leaned in closer to Qin Zhenzhen and whispered, "Today''s banquet will be attended by all the officials from the provincial capital, as well as wealthy businessmen."
"A High Schr who is both handsome and of an appropriate age, yet unmarried, may very well find himself pursued as a son-inw."
"Some of the top-ranked High Schrs have strong family backgrounds. Even if they are already married, officials or wealthy businessmen may still offer their concubines to them."
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and replied, "I''ve heard about all of this."
The High Schr holding the top rank had an even brighter future. In the uing capital examination next spring, he was likely to secure a ce on the coveted Golden List, a prospect that would elevate his status significantly.
The prefect''s wife expressed surprise. "Aren''t you concerned at all?"
Or had she not conveyed her thoughts clearly enough?
Considering Su Bin''s background and appearance, he would undoubtedly attract considerable attention from various quarters.
If he chose to do so, he could potentially take in multiple concubines at once, each bringing substantial dowry.
Qin Zhenzhen remained remarkablyposed. "What''s there to be concerned about?"
Should Su Bin ever entertain the notion of taking concubines, she would have no hesitation in seeking a divorce!
The magistrate''s wife misconstrued Qin Zhenzhen''s response.
"You''re remarkably magnanimous."
"However, it''s also a reality we women must contend with."
"Take my household, for instance. I have two concubines."
Initially, these two individuals had started as concubines, but following the birth of children, they had been promoted to full-fledged concubines.
Despite being the legitimate wife and having been raised by her aunt as her mother, her husband continued to treat her with kindness. The two concubines had never dared to challenge her boundaries.
However, each time she glimpsed her husband retiring to his aunt''s chamber, a twinge of difort would creep over her.
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen were still young and deeply in love. How could she be so epting of such a situation?
Aware that she had been misunderstood, Qin Zhenzhen saw no need to exin herself.
Su Ning, who had been listening, vigorously defended her third brother. "Madam, my third brother would never take another woman as his concubine!"
"Third Sister-inw, isn''t that right?"
Third Elder Sister-inw was well aware of how deeply her Third Elder Brother cherished her at this point. How could he possibly have feelings for other women?
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and replied, "We''ll find out when he returns."
The prefect''s wife also offered a smile and conceded, "Alright, perhaps I''ve said too much."
"But sometimes, men find themselves in difficult situations."
For instance, some higher-ranking officials liked to send women to their subordinates. Firstly, it served as a way to win the loyalty of their subordinates. Secondly, they could gain insight into their subordinates'' thoughts and actions through these women, thus ensuring a degree of control.
In such scenarios, subordinates often found it challenging to refuse such advances. To do so could jeopardize their official careers or even their lives.
Of course, Su Bin had not reached such a stage. However, given his status and future prospects, it was inevitable that people would test his resolve at this banquet.
The magistrate''s wife had offered her reminder to Qin Zhenzhen out of genuine concern, hoping to shield her from potential hurt. Additionally, she wished to discourage Su Bin from taking a concubine at such an early stage.
While it wasmon for capable men to eventually take concubines, the expectation was usually after the legitimate wife had given birth to her eldest son.
Qin Zhenzhen understood the magistrate''s wife''s perspective. She recognized that the prefect''s wife held traditional beliefs deeply ingrained in the feudal era. Her expectations of men differed significantly from those of a modern woman like herself.
However, Qin Zhenzhen had no intention of engaging in a debate on this matter. Instead, she brushed it off with augh.
In the eyes of the magistrate''s wife, Qin Zhenzhen appeared as a woman deeply in love with Su Bin, ready to ept whatever decisions he made with open arms.
They all understood that Qin Zhenzhen had chosen to marry Su Bin.
Chapter 346 Raising Children Also Costs a Lot of Money
346 Raising Children Also Costs a Lot of Money
"Zhenzhen, I have a question. May I ask?" The prefectural magistrate''s wife hesitated before inquiring.
Qin Zhenzhen responded casually, "Feel free to ask if you have something on your mind."
"You and Su Bin have been married for over a year now, but why haven''t you be pregnant?" The magistrate''s wife was genuinely curious.
Based on their daily interactions, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin appeared deeply in love. They shared the same bedroom and slept in the same bed at night, so why hadn''t they started a family yet?
If there were any health issues, Qin Zhenzhen was renowned as a miracle doctor who could cure almost anything. What could possibly be the problem?
Moreover, their expressions didn''t indicate any distress rted to their situation. If it were merely because Su Bin was young and wished to dy having children, it seemed imusible.
Excessive consumption of contraceptive herbs could severely affect a woman''s fertility and render her infertile for life. Therefore, such a decision had to be carefully considered.
Additionally, Qin Zhenzhen was nearing sixteen years of age, which was not considered young in this era. In ancient times, girls often married and started having children at the age of fourteen or fifteen.
The magistrate''s wife''s question caused Qin Zhenzhen to blush. She couldn''t reveal the truth, so she crafted a falsehood.
"Su Bin believes that he should establish his career first and considers starting a family only after achieving top honors."
The magistrate''s wife nodded in understanding. "I see."
"Then how did you¡.."
The prefectural magistrate''s wife had more private inquiries to make, but she suddenly felt it was inappropriate to discuss them in front of Su Ning. Consequently, she instructed a maidservant to escort Su Ning elsewhere to y.
Su Ning understood that the ensuing conversation would touch upon topics unsuitable for her young ears, so she obediently followed the servant girl to the back garden to enjoy herself.
Once Su Ning was out of earshot, the magistrate''s wife inquired in a hushed tone, "Zhenzhen, how did you manage to use contraception without harming your health?"
Qin Zhenzhen hadn''t anticipated this question, and she momentarily hesitated before replying calmly, "I can create a form of contraception that isn''t detrimental to one''s health."
The magistrate''s wife''s eyes brightened upon hearing this revtion. "You possess the ability to concoct such a remedy? Could you assist me in obtaining some?"
Qin Zhenzhen was somewhat surprised. The magistrate''s wife was nearly fifty years old, so in theory, she would no longer require contraception.
Seeing Qin Zhenzhen''s perplexed expression, the prefectural magistrate''s wife no longer shied away from the topic and confided in her.
It transpired that despite the governor''s respect and good treatment of his wife, her age had impacted her performance in the bedroom. Given these circumstances, it was likely that the governor would select a young and attractive concubine.
The prefectural magistrate''s wife wasn''t overly jealous of this situation. Her primary concern was that the two aunts were younger than she was. If the governor continued to stay with them, they would keep bearing children.
Justst month, one of the concubines had given birth again. This particr concubine had already delivered three children, all of whom were still quite young.
This particr concubine''s behavior was indeed quite absurd. Fearing that the governor might not visit her room again after giving birth to a child, she had actually offered her maid to him.
Sooner orter, that young maid would likely be elevated to the status of a concubine. If she too bore a child, she would likely be a concubine.
The constant emergence of concubines, even if their families were affluent and influential, would prove challenging to manage. Raising children demanded substantial financial resources.
Moreover, the proliferation of sons and daughters posed a significant threat to the offspring of the main wife.
Chapter 347 I Can Swear
347 I Can Swear
The prefectural magistrate''s wife exined that it wasn''t a matter of those concubine''s sons and daughters having the ability to contest her children''s inheritance. As the head of the family, she was still responsible for the well-being and moral upbringing of these offspring.
Managing the numerous children of concubines was a daunting task, especially when it came to disciplining children who were not her own. While it would be manageable if these children were obedient and diligent, if they disyed immoral behavior or became profligate and unruly, it could directly affect her own children.
The magistrate''s wife had suggested to the governor that the concubines use birth control methods. However, the governor appeared unwilling, citing concerns about the potential harm to his health.
The magistrate''s wife believed that if there were a method of contraception that posed no harm to the body, the governor would have no objections.
With this exnation, Qin Zhenzhenprehended the situation. The magistrate''s wife didn''t want to interfere, and the governor often slept in the concubines'' rooms to prevent them from giving birth again.
The governor was apassionate man, a type who wanted to protect all the women in his life. He believed he could respect his wife while remaining loyal to his concubines, fostering harmonious rtionships among the women in his household. This type of man was seen as virtuous.
In modern society, men like him could potentially face legal consequences. However, in ancient times, women faced a challenging situation. Marrying a useless man who struggled to make ends meet might lead to her being sold off that very day. Marrying a capable man often meant epting a household with multiple wives and concubines, without any sense of guilt.
For example, the prefectural magistrate''s wife may have appeared morous on the surface, but she secretly felt powerless. Nevertheless, she believed it was a typical situation for a man in that era.
Women in ancient times often had to adapt to their circumstances and couldn''t afford to dwell on their sorrows, primarily relying on their resourcefulness and resilience.
Qin Zhenzhen empathized with the magistrate''s wife''s concerns and reassured her with a warm smile. "Don''t worry, this is a straightforward task. I''ll prepare those medicines for you and turn them into pills."
However, the magistrate''s wife raised another concern. "Has any man ever taken this contraceptive medicine? Even if it doesn''t harm his body, it might affect his virility."
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback by the unexpected request. "You want to give the governor this medicine?"
The magistrate''s wife admitted somewhat sheepishly, "Yes, I''m worried that my husband won''t agree to give those concubines the medicine. After some thought, I''ve decided not to discuss this with him and just take matters into my own hands."
"Although I''ve never mistreated those concubines, they are still wary of me. I can deceive them into taking it once or twice, but eventually, they''ll be suspicious."
"For my husband''s sake, I''m willing to secretly administer it to him."
"He has never been guarded against me."
Qin Zhenzhen cautioned, "Please think this through carefully. While I can assure you that my medicine has no side effects, I can''t guarantee that everyone will believe it."
"What if your husband discovers that you''ve been secretly giving him medicine? What if he can''t ept it and directs his anger at you?"
In reality, Qin Zhenzhen was also concerned that if the governor found out she had covertly concocted this pill for his wife, he might retaliate, which could negatively impact her business. After all, in the provincial capital, the governor held considerable influence.
The magistrate''s wife must have grasped Qin Zhenzhen''s underlying message. She hastily made a solemn promise, "Rest assured, I will ensure it remains a secret. Even if I''m discovered, I won''t mention your involvement. I swear, should I go back on this, I''ll meet a gruesome end!"
Chapter 348 Injured Young Man (1)
348 Injured Young Man (1)
Seeing the magistrate''s wife in such distress, Qin Zhenzhen felt a deep pang of empathy.
But she knew she had to step in and assist her.
The number of children in her household had truly be overwhelming!
There were four legitimate sons and daughters, along with six children from concubines. However, if Qin Zhenzhen were to be discovered, the governor might wrongly assume that she was behind this arrangement.
Qin Zhenzhen proposed a solution, saying, "How about this? I can enhance the original concoction with a touch of Immortal Pill. By taking this modified medicine, not only will there be no adverse effects, but it will also fortify your health."
"Moreover, when you decide not to continue, you can simply discontinue taking the medicine. You can still have children in the future."
"This way, even if you are discovered, the governor won''t be too critical."
"The scent of this pill is subtle, and it dissolves quickly in water. A single pill canst for half a month."
The prefect''s wife was overjoyed and eximed, "Zhenzhen, I can''t thank you enough!"
With this modified pill, she could discreetly mix it into the food without anyone noticing and give it to her governor. This would not only pacify his ire but also demonstrate her virtue and generosity.
To express her gratitude to Qin Zhenzhen, the magistrate''s wife offered several sets of precious jewelry and insisted that Qin Zhenzhen choose one as a token of appreciation.
However, Qin Zhenzhen couldn''t ept these cherished items; it went against her principles to take something others held dear.
She was not naive. The prefectural magistrate''s wife and her eldest son were overseeing the family''s business affairs, and she would need their support in the future to earn a living.
Seeing that Qin Zhenzhen hesitated to ept it, the magistrate''s wife handed her a banknote worth a thousand taels.
"You must take this. Even if it''s payment for the medicine, you must ept it. I understand that the Immortal Pill is an invaluable treasure, and you may not have much left."
Qin Zhenzhen graciously epted the banknotes, her smile indicating her appreciation.
She could decline treasures, but banknotes were a different matter, especially since she had infused them with the "Immortal Pill."
For the prefectural magistrate''s wife, a thousand taels of silver held substantial value. In local currency, it equated to around 300,000 yuan. However, Qin Zhenzhen regarded it as a matter of course.
At that moment, a frantic maid rushed over, the one who had taken Su Ning to y.
"Madam, while ying in the backyard with Miss Su, a wounded young man suddenly climbed over the wall, copsing on the ground covered in blood!"
"I was terrified and immediately pulled Miss Su away."
"But Miss Su refused to leave, insisting that saving a life is more important than building a seven-story pagoda. She''s determined to help."
"I advised her against touching the young man. Men and women should not have physical contact¡"
Qin Zhenzhen panicked and abruptly stood up. "Is my sixth sister alone in the backyard now?"
The magistrate''s wife scolded the maid, "Stop dilly-dallying! Get to the point! How is Miss Su?"
The maid hastily replied, "Miss Su is currently tending to the young man in the back garden. She''s attending to his wounds and trying to stop the bleeding¡"
Qin Zhenzhen''s heart raced. Why did this situation seem so familiar?
Could it be that her presence had caused various events from the original story to ur prematurely, resulting in this scenario happening earlier than expected?
In the original plot, the first encounter between Su Ning and the male lead, Chu Tiansheng, urred when he was severely injured. Covered in blood, he had climbed over the wall into the backyard of Su Bin''s mansion.
Because his injuries were too serious, he fell to the ground with a bang and was discovered by Su Ning.
Chapter 349 Injured Young Man (2)
349 Injured Young Man (2)
Su Ning''s thoughts in the book were described as follows:
Uponying eyes on Chu Tiansheng''s exceptional good looks, Su Ning feltpelled to help him.
Observing him dressed in in civilian attire, she couldn''t resist the urge to assist him. The idea of having him as her servant didn''t seem too bad; it would be a daily visual delight.
Acting quickly, Su Ning instructed the servant by her side to stem the bleeding and dress his wounds.
Before she could inquire about his name, Chu Tiansheng''s master scaled the wall and came to his rescue.
Su Ning never had the opportunity to ask for his name at that moment.
Yearster, when they crossed paths again, Su Ning immediately recognized Chu Tiansheng. By then, he had shed his boyish demeanor and transformed into a striking, charismatic young master, emanating the aura of a male lead.
This discovery ignited Su Ning''s infatuation, plunging her into the role of a love-struck supporting actress in the drama of her own life.
Contemting this, Qin Zhenzhen furrowed her brow. She hoped that the wounded young man wasn''t Chu Tiansheng!
If it were him, wouldn''t Su Ning fall head over heels for him once more?
Anxiously addressing the maid, Qin Zhenzhen urged, "Lead the way. Take me there!"
Turning to the magistrate''s wife, she exined, "I''m concerned for my sixth sister''s safety!"
Someone had trespassed into the governor''s backyard by scaling the wall. While it wasn''t her ce to intervene, she worried for Su Ning''s well-being.
If the young man was indeed Chu Tiansheng, she needed to investigate immediately.
If it turned out he wasn''t Chu Tiansheng but a criminal, Su Ning might be at risk after saving him.
The prefectural magistrate''s wife nodded vigorously and promptly issued orders, saying, "Auntie Wang, inform the guards and servants. One group should head to the backyard to investigate the situation, while the other should remain to protect the masters inside the house!"
"Very well!" Auntie Wang promptly went to make the necessary arrangements.
The maid led the way, conveying to Qin Zhenzhen and the magistrate''s wife as they hurried,
"When this servant came to report, two guards had already discovered the young man along with us."
"I noticed someone was protecting Miss Su, so I rushed back to inform you."
Qin Zhenzhen let out a sigh of relief.
With two guards present, Su Ning''s safety seemed assured, but the situation was eerily reminiscent of events from the book.
The prefect''s wife also breathed a sigh of relief and slowed her pace. She had noticed the guards and male servants heading towards the backyard.
Being the wife of an official, she needed to maintain herposure and image, even though she was not in the best physical shape to run the entire distance.
Their residence was quite expansive, and there was still a considerable distance to cover from the main house to the backyard wall.
However, Qin Zhenzhen''s concern for Su Ning''s well-being made her too anxious to wait for the magistrate''s wife to catch up.
Before long, Qin Zhenzhen and the maidservant reached the backyard wall.
However, the injured young man was nowhere to be seen. Instead, they found bloodstains on the ground and a group of five or six guards and servants standing there.
Several more guards and servants were rushing out through the back door.
Su Ning''s hands and clothes were stained with blood, and herplexion had turned pale as she clung to Qin Zhenzhen.
She appeared to be somewhat frightened.
Qin Zhenzhen gently patted Su Ning''s shoulder and offered words offort, saying, "There''s no need to be afraid. They''ve already departed."
Upon questioning the two guards, they learned that the injured youth had been rescued by a middle-aged man who was also wounded.
The middle-aged man had scaled the wall and entered the premises. His arm was injured and dripping with blood, with only a makeshift bandage in ce.
At the time, Su Ning and the two guards had just finished tending to the young man''s wounds. Without uttering a word, the middle-aged man had pushed them aside and carried the injured youth over the wall.
Su Ning''s face had turned ashen from fear when the middle-aged man forcefully disced her.
Chapter 350 Injured Young Man (3)
350 Injured Young Man (3)
Qin Zhenzhen stood there in shock.
Apart from the differences in time and location, this incident was unfolding exactly as it had in the original book!
This can''t be happening! It can''t be!
It seemed that Su Ning''s troubles were beginning to unfold.
The guards and servants continued to pursue the middle-aged man and the youth.
This was the governor''s residence, and there was no certainty about the intentions of these intruders. Were they fugitives, or was there some other motive behind their sudden appearance and hasty departure?
The guards and servants spected as they chased after them. Both the middle-aged man and the youth were already injured, so if they could capture them, it might earn them favor with the governor. This could potentially lead to an improvement in their status and even release from servitude.
Once Su Ning had regained someposure, Qin Zhenzhen pulled her aside and gently inquired, "Please tell me everything from the beginning to the end."
Su Ning was visibly shaken, her face still bearing the pallor of fear. Most youngdies would be terrified at the sight of human blood, let alone a young man covered in it. Yet, they had not only dared to intervene but had also saved him without knowing his identity.
There was no longer any doubt. The young man they had saved must be the handsome Chu Tiansheng, which exined Su Ning''s audacity.
Su Ning had always been drawn to handsome faces.
However, Qin Zhenzhen wanted to hear all the details, as the events in the book had urred after the Tianjing test the following spring. Su Bin had be the Primus and been appointed to the Hanlin Academy as a third-grade capital official.
He had brought Su Ning and Su Qing to the capital to keep them safe.
During that time, the Eighth Imperial Uncle''s rebellion had just been suppressed, and in order to eliminate any potential threats, he needed to eliminate those who posed a danger to him.
Chu Tiansheng had been training with his master in the northern border. When his father was poisoned to death by the Eighth Imperial Uncle and his elder brother, the Crown Prince, was murdered by the same uncle, he couldn''t return in time to mourn or prevent these tragedies.
Consequently, he had also narrowly missed falling victim to the Eighth Imperial Uncle''s assassination.
Subsequently, he realized that returning to the capital openly would be a death sentence. If he were to go back, it had to be in secret.
Chu Tiansheng and his master had secretly returned to the capital the following spring. Unfortunately, their arrival had been leaked, resulting in them being pursued by the Eighth Imperial Uncle.
The blood-covered young man had fled to the backyard of Su Bin''s residence and, in a desperate attempt to escape, had climbed over the wall and fallen to the ground. It was there that Su Ning had discovered him¡
Su Ning provided a detailed ount of the events. She and her maid had gone to the backyard to y, inadvertently finding themselves outside the wall. Suddenly, a bloodied young man had climbed over the wall and copsed on the ground, unable to move.
The sounds of a fierce struggle echoed from beyond the wall.
Despite her maid''s fear and attempts to pull her away, Su Ning feltpelled to act, believing that saving a life was of greater value than building a seven-story pagoda. She approached the injured young man.
The young man had looked at her with hope, as if pleading for help.
Taking pity on him and sensing that he appeared kind and not malevolent, she swiftly retrieved the hemostatic powder she had brought along and used it to staunch the bleeding on his thigh.
At that moment, two guards heard themotion and rushed over. Upon her request, they assisted in bandaging thergest wound on the young man''s thigh.
Witnessing the young man''s near-death condition, Su Ning promptly retrieved the life-saving pill given to her by Qin Zhenzhen and ced it in the young man''s mouth.
She even exined to him, "This is a life-saving pill specially crafted by my third sister-inw. It can bring the dead back to life and swiftly restore your strength."
"Don''t worry," Su Ning reassured him, "My third sister-inw has gone to the pce to attend to the Empress Dowager''s illness."
Upon hearing her words, the young man didn''t hesitate and swallowed the pill.
She was just about to inquire about his name when a middle-aged man scaled the wall and attempted to carry the injured youth away.
Fearing that any sudden movement might worsen the young man''s wounds, Su Ning hurriedly intervened, trying to prevent the middle-aged man. However, she was forcefully shoved to the ground by the middle-aged man.
Chapter 351 - 351: Injured Young Man (4)
Chapter 351: Injured Young Man (4)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
As the young man was being carried over the wall, he turned back and uttered two words to her: ¡°Thank you!¡±
Observing this exchange, Qin Zhenzhen turned to Su Ning and inquired, ¡°How old did he appear to be?¡±
Su Ning responded, ¡°He seemed to be around fifteen or sixteen years old. Although he was dressed in ordinary civilian clothes, I suspect it was a disguise¡ ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen silently nodded, recognizing that his age matched that of the male lead in the original book, Chu Tiansheng.
Even Su Ning could discern that he was concealing his true identity, drawing a parallel with Chu Tiansheng, who possessed the protagonist¡¯s aura.
Curiosity got the better of Qin Zhenzhen as she asked again, ¡°Was he particrly good -looking?¡±
Su Ning¡¯s face flushed slightly as she replied, ¡°He was incredibly handsome¡
but not as handsome as Third Brother!¡±
It was evident that Su Ning didn¡¯t truly believe her own words.
In the original book, Chu Tiansheng was undeniably depicted as the most handsome character. The novel distinguished Su Bin¡¯s beauty as dark and suffocating, cloaked in an air of mystery and aloofness, as he maintained an unusual aversion to women. His demeanor was marked by abstinence and an enigmatic quality, further enhanced by his perception of the world as an adversary, earning him the reputation of being ruthless.
On the other hand, Chu Tiansheng¡¯s beauty radiated with brightness and positive energy, retaining an optimistic and determined disposition even in the face of adversity. Throughout the book¡¯s plot, he underwent a transformation from a delicate and feeble prince who required rearing away from the capital to bing a formidable ruler of the nation, ascending through perseverance and growth.
Chu Tiansheng was the epitome of a traditional and optimistic male lead.
It could be said that Chu Tiansheng¡¯s beauty was so radiant that it broughtfort to those who beheld it.
Observing Su Ning¡¯s expression, Qin Zhenzhen decided to cease her inquiries.
It seemed highly likely that the young man was indeed Chu Tiansheng.
However, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but wonder.
After the Eighth Imperial Uncle had ascended the throne, he regarded Chu Tiansheng as a potential threat and had ordered his pursuit. Now that the Eighth Imperial Uncle had been overthrown, who could still be interested in hunting down Chu Tiansheng?
Could it be that the Crown Prince, influenced by the Eighth Imperial Uncle¡¯s actions, feared that Chu Tiansheng might pose a threat to his reign in the future and sought to eliminate him preemptively?
This was because Chu Tiansheng¡¯s maternal family hailed from the General¡¯s Mansion, and his eldest unclemanded a formidable military force of 300,000 troops, guarding the border.
There were legitimate reasons for the Crown Prince¡¯s apprehension regarding Chu Tiansheng.
The magistrate¡¯s wife proceeded to the backyard, where the guards and servants who had pursued the intruders had also returned to provide a report.
They stated that they had found no trace of the middle-aged man and the young man and were uncertain of their whereabouts. However, there were bloodstains leading outside the wall, along with three corpses dressed in ck attire. Not far from these bodies, they discovered additional corpses simrly attired.
An official had arrived at the scene as well.
A contingent of them had chased after the middle-aged man and the youth, while others remained behind to collect evidence from the witnesses.
ording to ounts from those outside the wall, the middle-aged man and young man had been pursued by a group of individuals in ck attire from the marketce. Despite the middle-aged man¡¯s martial skills and his deration, ¡°Who are you? The current Third Prince is here. Show some respect!¡± those pursuers intensified their attack, seemingly incensed by his alleged impersonation of the Third Prince.
¡°How dare you! How dare you impersonate the Third Prince and mislead others!¡±
¡°Flower thief, meet your end!¡±
¡°How dare youy hands on the daughter of our Flying Cloud Tribe Master?
You shall pay with your life!¡±
This group of individuals fought with unwavering determination. The soldiers hadn¡¯t arrived promptly, and the middle-aged man and the young man may have opted to flee due to concerns about being outnumbered.
The pursuers in ck continued their chase. During the pursuit, another group of individuals dressed in ck suddenly emerged, attacking from both sides in an attempt to eliminate the two fugitives..
Chapter 352 - 352: Killing Two Birds with One Stone
Chapter 352: Killing Two Birds with One Stone
Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
However, the middle-aged man and the young man exhibited formidable martial arts skills. Working in tandem, they skillfully dispatched their adversaries, leaving more than 20 men in ck either incapacitated or deceased.
The duo fought their way back, steadily retreating from the confrontation.
From the shouts of the men in ck, it became evident that these assants were indeed bandits hailing from the Flying Cloud Tribe.
Their mission had been to track down the middle-aged man and the young man because the two had inadvertently crossed paths with the eldest daughter of the Flying Cloud Tribe.
Uninformed onlookers, however, erroneously believed the middle-aged man and the young man to be assants of a different nature.
Qin Zhenzhen, however, refused to entertain such a notion.
If the young man was indeed Chu Tiansheng, then the one behind their attempted assassination could only be the Crown Prince.
The entire narrative of rape and the Flying Cloud Fortress Leader¡¯s daughter was baseless and absurd.
It was inconceivable that the daughter of the Flying Cloud Fortress Leader could have been assaulted by a rapist. Such an incident could never be made public.
The suddenmotion had brought government officials swarming into the streets of the provincial capital. Their objectives extended beyond tracking down the middle-aged man and the young man to apprehending the group of men in ck.
Furthermore, they needed to address the casualties among the innocent bystanders, providing both constion and restitution.
Given the chaotic state of affairs, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning found it impossible to return by carriage. Instead, they remained at the governor¡¯s residence, awaiting further updates.
Word had it that the newly minted High Schrs had congregated in the Gong Courtyard to ensure their safety.
Qin Zhenzhen did not have to worry about Su Bin being in danger.
In the afternoon, the governor and Su Bin returned to the residence.
Although the governor was already aware of the incident, he requested a detailed ount from Su Ning, seeking every avable detail of what had transpired.
He listened carefully as Su Ning described the young man¡¯s appearance, and his countenance darkened noticeably.
Afterward, he summoned Su Bin and retreated to his study for a private conversation, leaving Qin Zhenzhen in the dark regarding the nature of their discussion.
One official report after another arrived at the residence, each failing to yield any information regarding the middle-aged man and the young man. Tragically, there were no survivors beyond the lifeless bodies, effectively severing any potential leads.
As night descended, the streets of the provincial capital gradually returned to tranquility. Twelve corpses dressed in ck and five civilian casualties who had been identally killed were transported to the morgue within the yamen.
The governor was now faced with a daunting task. Initially, he would need to initiate an investigation into the identities of the middle-aged man and the young man. Simultaneously, he had to ascertain that the men in ck were indeed bandits affiliated with the Flying Cloud Tribe.
Following dinner at the governor¡¯s residence, Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen, and Su Ning returned home under the protection of six appointed officials.
In truth, neither Qin Zhenzhen nor Su Bin harbored any significant fears. Su Bin was already apanied by two formidable covert bodyguards, and Qin Zhenzhen possessed substantial self-defense skills herself.
Upon their return home, Su Bin led Qin Zhenzhen into the study, sensing her eagerness for information.
Qin Zhenzhen had been eagerly anticipating this conversation, as the governor¡¯s residence had not been the ideal location to inquire about these matters. The carriage ride had also proven to be inconvenient for such discussions.
Certain secrets were too confidential to be divulged to Su Ning, and it was imperative to be cautious, especially in the presence of government officials who might inadvertently overhear.
Anxiously, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Have you received confirmation that the injured young man is His Highness the Third Prince?¡±
Su Bin nodded affirmatively. ¡°Indeed, he is.¡±
¡°And those men in ck are agents of His Highness the Crown Prince.¡±
¡°They assumed the guise of the Flying Cloud Tribe and not only pursued the Third Prince but also orchestrated the killing of innocent bystanders, making it a major incident. His Highness the Crown Prince aims to achieve multiple objectives.¡±
Perplexed, Qin Zhenzhen sought rification, ¡°How is he trying to achieve multiple objectives?¡±
Given her recent focus on her business endeavors and her efforts to generate ie, she had remained unaware of the ssified information Su Bin had gathered, and thus, he had refrained from sharing any details with her..
Chapter 353 - 353 Actually, There’s Another Matter
Chapter 353 Actually, There¡¯s Another Matter
Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°He aims to achieve multiple objectives,¡± Su Bin exined, ¡°If they seed in assassinating the Third Prince, it would aplish his goal. However, if the assassination attempt fails, they can still frame the Flying Cloud Tribe.¡±
¡°In that case, the Imperial Court would mobilize troops to encircle and suppress the Flying Cloud Tribe.¡±
Su Bin had no intention of withholding any information from Qin Zhenzhen. He was willing to provide her with all the details he had acquired.
¡°In reality,¡± he continued, ¡°the Flying Cloud Tribe is no longer a bandit stronghold. It was integrated into the Imperial Court¡¯s framework over two decades ago.¡±
¡°At present, the Flying Cloud Tribe is equivalent to a township, with its leader holding a position akin to that of a town governor. They receive monthly government subsidies.¡±
He further borated, ¡°The current Flying Cloud Fortress Master is actually
General Lin Yue¡¯s younger brother.¡±
Pretending to be taken aback, Qin Zhenzhen feigned surprise. In truth, she was well-acquainted with the plot of the book. General Lin Yue happened to be the Third Prince¡¯s grandfather. In other words, the Flying Cloud Fortress Master was the Third Prince¡¯s maternal uncle.
The Flying Cloud Tribe yed a significant role in aiding the Third Prince¡¯s ascent to the throne.
Unaware that Qin Zhenzhen was already familiar with these plot details, Su Bin continued to offer a patient exnation.
¡°The Flying Cloud Fortress Master is the Third Prince¡¯s maternal great-uncle. Over two decades ago, General Lin Yue had not yet inherited his father¡¯s military authority and was not a general at that time. He had been tasked with leading troops to besiege the Flying Cloud Tribe.¡±
¡°Unexpectedly, his fifth brother, Lin Wu, who had never entered the military camp and had a penchant for wandering, fell in love with the Flying Cloud Fortress Master¡¯s daughter.¡±
¡°After much persuasion, they finally convinced the Flying Cloud Tribe to integrate with the Imperial Court, and Lin Wu became the son-inw residing with the Flying Cloud Fortress Master.¡±
¡°Due to this arrangement, the General Manor publicly dered their disavowal of Lin Wu, keeping his true identity concealed from the public eye.¡±
¡°As a result, very few people are aware that the Flying Cloud Fortress Master hails from the General Manor,¡± Su Bin concluded.
He continued to share all the information he had acquired with Qin Zhenzhen, stating, ¡°I only recently discovered this fact myself.¡±
¡°His Highness the Crown Prince and others must have obtained this information not long ago as well.¡±
Su Bin expressed his astonishment, remarking, ¡°I didn¡¯t anticipate the Crown
Prince to be so ruthless, even toward a younger brother who has yet toe of age.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded emotionally, ¡°If we don¡¯t eliminate him before he ascends to power, it will be far more challenging to handle him once he consolidates his position.¡±
Su Bin found himself taken aback, inquiring, ¡°Wife, do you hold the Third Prince in high regard?¡±
Quietly nodding, Qin Zhenzhen indeed held the Third Prince in high regard.
With the protagonist¡¯s aura surrounding him, his ultimate destiny was to upy the throne.
As for the Crown Prince, he was a licentious individual without moral boundaries, and Qin Zhenzhen did not approve of his ascension to the throne.
Her ideal scenario involved the Third Princeunching a ruthless counteroffensive and dethroning the Crown Prince, thereby securing the throne.
Reflecting on the Crown Prince¡¯s intelligence and cunning, Qin Zhenzhen sighed once more. ¡°It¡¯s truly inconceivable. That fellow possesses a keen sense of danger.¡±
Su Bin, however, shook his head, remarking, ¡°The Crown Prince is a debauched individual. How could he possibly perceive himself as being in jeopardy? It¡¯s that strategist named Lin at his side.¡±
¡°I can¡¯t quite decipher Lin¡¯s personality.¡±
¡°He¡¯s the one who advised the Crown Prince not to harbor any intentions toward you and to focus on contributing to the welfare of the people. Initially, I thought he was a gentleman who was earnestly guiding the Crown Prince toward the right path.¡±
¡°In this instance, he¡¯s achieving multiple objectives,¡± Su Bin concurred, ¡°I find his actions excessively ruthless. He appears willing to go to any lengths to realize his ambitions.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded firmly, emphasizing, ¡°We should remain vignt regarding this individual in the future.¡±
Su Bin agreed, adding, ¡°Indeed. The governor summoned you to the study earlier. What transpired during your conversation? Did he perceive a different facet of your character?¡±
Smiling, Su Bin shook his head, revealing, ¡°I¡¯ve concealed myself so thoroughly that not even the emperor or the crown prince have detected anything. How could he possibly discern anything?¡±
¡°Actually, he summoned me to the study for a separate matter,¡± Su Bin continued, now ready to disclose the details of his conversation with the governor to Qin Zhenzhen..
Chapter 354 - 354: It’s Right Not to Get Involved
Chapter 354: It¡¯s Right Not to Get Involved
Trantor: Henyee Trantions | Editor: Henyee Trantions
Based on Su Ning¡¯s description of the young man, the governor also harbored suspicions that he might be the Third Prince. However, the governor maintained hisposure and pretended to inquire of Su Bin, ¡°Su Bin, do you believe this young man to be the Third Prince?¡±
Feigning ignorance, Su Bin responded, ¡°I¡¯ve never had the chance to see the
Third Prince, so I wouldn¡¯t dare to specte.¡±
Perhaps due to Su Bin¡¯s effective disguise, the governor opted not to pursue the matter any further.
Following this, the governor shifted the conversation and inquired about Su Ning¡¯s marital status. It turned out he was interested in arranging a marriage between his youngest son and Su Ning.
While Su Bin didn¡¯t outright decline, he made his position clear, stating, ¡°I¡¯ve already promised my sister that I won¡¯t agree to any engagement for her until she¡¯s of age.¡±
¡°If fate allows it in six or seven years, then it won¡¯t be toote.¡±
This was a tactful way of turning down the proposal.
Su Bin believed that their ages weren¡¯t suitable for such an arrangement. The governor¡¯s youngest son was approximately ten years old, while Su Ning was nine, making them nearly the same age.
Qin Zhenzhen concurred, remarking, ¡°Indeed, the age gap is quite significant.¡±
In the modern era, age differences between couples didn¡¯t matter much, and women could even be older than men. However, ancient times followed different customs. Women typically married around the age of 14 or 15, while being considered ¡°old¡± for marriage by the time they reached 16 or 17. On the other hand, men between the ages of 16 and 17 were still considered suitable candidates for marriage.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s reluctance to endorse arranged marriages yed a significant role in her stance, alongside Su Ning¡¯s youth.
Su Bin¡¯s unexpected awareness caught Qin Zhenzhen off guard.
¡°You¡¯re also opposed to the marriage proposal with the governor?¡± she inquired, seeking rity on the matter.
Su Bin openly shared his perspective with Qin Zhenzhen, exining patiently, ¡°Have you pondered why the Third Prince was being pursued and resorted to climbing over the wall into the governor¡¯s backyard, yet his master didn¡¯t reveal their identities and instead swiftly removed him from the scene?¡±
Understanding dawned upon Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Are you suggesting that the governor is aligned with His Highness the Crown Prince?¡±
Su Bin affirmed her suspicion, stating, ¡°I believe so. The governor¡¯s second brother serves as the Assistant Minister, and the Assistant Minister¡¯s second daughter is the Crown Prince¡¯s concubine.¡±
¡°The Third Prince and his master are being pursued, and they likely attribute it to the Crown Prince¡¯s actions, hence their vignce against the Crown Prince¡¯s associates.¡±
¡°While the Third Prince might have scrambled over the wall in haste, possibly unaware that it was the governor¡¯s residence, his master should have recognized it.¡±
¡°Despite the benign intentions of Sixth Sister and the two guards in treating the Third Prince¡¯s injuries, he probably still couldn¡¯t afford to take chances.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen grasped the situation, inquiring, ¡°Is this one of the reasons why you oppose marriage to the governor?¡±
Su Bin did not deny it. ¡°You could say that.¡±
¡°The Crown Prince isn¡¯t a virtuous individual. I¡¯d rather not be entangled with his associates.¡±
¡°Even though the governor may not necessarily align with the Crown Prince, the ties between them cast doubt. It¡¯s safer to avoid involvement.
Qin Zhenzhen honed in on the crux of the matter, remarking, ¡°So, if you don¡¯t want to associate with his associates, do you believe His Highness won¡¯t ascend to the throne?¡±
Su Bin responded thoughtfully, ¡°It appears that the Crown Prince¡¯s position is secure for now, but that may not be the case in five or six years.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was quite surprised. ¡°You mean that when the Third Prince grows up, he will definitelypete with him?¡±
Was a viin so forward-thinking?
Now, he could determine that the Third Prince was a strong opponent of the Crown Prince?
Chapter 355 - 355: I’m Not Willing
Chapter 355: I¡¯m Not Willing
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin smiled and remarked, ¡°I can¡¯t say for certain, but predicting the future is always uncertain, isn¡¯t it?¡±
¡°In reality, my considerations aren¡¯t as long-term as you might believe.¡±
¡°The main reason for my initial hesitation was my perception of the Crown
Prince¡¯s character. As for his virtue, we¡¯ll discover that soon enough.¡±
¡°Hence, I prefer not to be entangled with his associates. Furthermore, Sixth Sister is still quite young and not yet suitable for engagement.¡±
When Qin Zhenzhen emerged from the study, Su Ning anxiously halted her and inquired,
¡°Third Sister-inw, what did Third Brother say to you?¡± ¡°Is Third Brother reproaching me for saving that young man?¡±
¡°Is that young man a good or bad individual?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t disclose that the Crown Prince intended to harm the Third Prince. She could only offer her reassurance.
¡°Firstly, your third brother and I don¡¯t me you for saving him. Your decision to rescue him was justified.¡±
¡°Secondly, we can¡¯t determine if that young man is good or bad just yet.¡±
¡°If he turns out to be a good person, your actions will earn youmendation for saving his life.¡±
¡°And if he isn¡¯t a good person, you shouldn¡¯t burden yourself too heavily. After all, there¡¯s no visible sign on his foreheadbeling him as good or bad.¡±
Su Ning¡¯s tense expression softened somewhat.
However, she still clung to Qin Zhenzhen and refused to let go.
¡°Third Sister-inw, do you think he¡¯s a rapistl?¡±
In response, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°Do you think he appears to be one?¡±
Su Ning¡¯s cheeks reddened a bit, but her tone remained resolute. ¡°I don¡¯t think he looks like one! How can someone so young be a rapistl?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nced at Su Ning and sensed that something was amiss.
Oh no, this is not good! It¡¯s starting to align with the plot of the original book! Su Ning had fallen head over heels for the Third Prince at first sight, hence her fervent defense.
In the future, they would surely fall deeply in love with each other.
However, Chu Tiansheng, the official partner of the female lead in the original novel, had the protagonist¡¯s aura and was destined to be with her. If Su Ning got involved, she might end up in a wretched state once more.
No, she needed to change course now.
Deliberately, Qin Zhenzhen disagreed with Su Ning. ¡°That young man may be youthful, but the middle-aged man appears highly skilled in martial arts. He fits the profile and age of someone suspicious.¡±
As expected, Su Ning countered again.
¡°But I heard from those people that most criminals work alone. It¡¯s unlikely for two individuals to coborate, especially with such an age gap!¡±
¡°They also mentioned that the likelihood of that young man being the Third Prince is higher because the middle-aged man once imed it. Sadly, no one believed him.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was somewhat surprised. ¡°Are you referring to the servants of the prefect¡¯s household?¡±
Su Ning nodded. ¡°They whispered it secretly and wouldn¡¯t dare discuss it in front of their master.
¡°But I think they may have a point.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had a headache. They had only met once, yet Su Ning was absolutely convinced that the Third Prince was a good person.
It was best to steer clear of this topic now.
Changing the subject, Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°Didn¡¯t you want to know what your third brother said to me in the study?¡±
Su Ning was genuinely taken aback. ¡°Did my third brother say something else?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and revealed, ¡°The governor has taken an interest in you. He wants you to be his daughter-inw.¡±
Su Ning was astounded. ¡°Huh? Did my third brother agree to it? Did he?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Are you willing?¡± Su Ning responded hastily, ¡°I¡¯m not willing!¡±
¡°Why not?¡±
Su Ning¡¯s expression soured, and she was almost in tears.. ¡°I¡¯m still so young! Why are they arranging a marriage for me?¡±
Chapter 356 - 356: Fortunately, You Didn ‘t Tell the Truth
Chapter 356: Fortunately, You Didn ¡®t Tell the Truth
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Observing Su Ning¡¯s anxiety, Qin Zhenzhen decided to cease her yful banter.
¡°Why are you so on edge? Your third brother didn¡¯t give his consent. He made it clear that he won¡¯t arrange an engagement for you until you reach adulthood.¡± Su Ning let out a relieved sigh but still felt a touch of embarrassment.
¡°Third Sister-inw, you¡¯re quite mischievous. Why didn¡¯t you rify this from the start? Were you trying to enjoy my embarrassment?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and replied, ¡°You were getting so worked up. Are you ming me for not being clearer?¡±
¡°But I¡¯m a bit curious. The governor¡¯s youngest son isn¡¯t really that bad. He¡¯s quite ordinary, and I¡¯ve heard he¡¯s rather intelligent. In a couple of years, he might be a Cultivated Talent.¡±
¡°We¡¯ve dined together, and you¡¯ve met him. I wonder why you reacted so strongly against him?¡±
Su Ning blushed once more.
¡°I¡¯m not rejecting him. I just don¡¯t want to be engaged at such a young age.¡±
¡°I want to get to know the person I¡¯ll marry in the future. I don¡¯t want to end up like my older sister, marrying someone like Wang Yizhi.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°Ah, so you mean you want to have a say in choosing your future husband?¡±
Su Ning¡¯s face grew even redder. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean that I¡¯ll choose on my own. When the timees, Third Brother and Third Sister-inw will help me decide. I trust your judgment.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen thought to herself, I hope these are your genuine sentiments. If you¡¯re willing to heed my advice, I¡¯ll be at ease.
She had promised herself that she wouldn¡¯t consent to Su Ning marrying Chu Tiansheng.
Qin Zhenzhen patted Su Ning¡¯s shoulder reassuringly. ¡°As long as you have faith in me and your third brother, we¡¯ll certainly assist you in making the right choice.¡±
At night, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin entered their room, preparing to put on a charade. Regardless of their destination, they had to share the same room and bed.
Su Bin inched closer to Qin Zhenzhen, attempting to initiate a conversation. ¡®Wife¡
He had the intention of holding Qin Zhenzhen, but his nerves got the best of him. After uttering two words, he couldn¡¯t muster the courage to proceed.
Qin Zhenzhen gave him an impatient re. ¡°If you have something to say, say it. Why beat around the bush?¡±
Summoning his courage, Su Bin ventured to ask, ¡°Can I¡¡¯
Once again, Qin Zhenzhen shot him an irritated look. She sensed that he was acting differently tonight.
Having been red at twice, Su Bin found the resolve to pose another question. ¡°Did the magistrate¡¯s wife inquire about anything?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was mildly taken aback. ¡°What do you think she might have asked?¡±
¡°For instance, considering the duration of our marriage, she might wonder why we haven¡¯t had children yet.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was startled. Did Su Bin have informants in the governor¡¯s residence? Did he know about her conversations with the magistrate¡¯s wife and the deals they had struck?
¡°Yes, she did inquire. Is that a problem?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s demeanor grew serious. ¡°Do you know why she asked?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t wish to conceal anything from Su Bin. She recounted everything the magistrate¡¯s wife had discussed with her.
After hearing her exnation, Su Bin asked her, ¡°Do you suspect that the governor is aligned with the Crown Prince? Is it possible that even the magistrate¡¯s wife has ulterior motives in questioning you about these matters?¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve just received a confidential message. That wretched Crown
Prince hasn¡¯t given up on you!¡±
¡°He¡¯s likely seizing upon the fact that we haven¡¯t conceived after all this time, and he¡¯s spreading rumors that I haven¡¯t been intimate with you.¡±
¡± so¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen asked angrily, ¡°He sent a message to the governor, and then the magistrate¡¯s wife, pretending to be sisters, questioned me about contraceptive methods?¡±
Su Bin nodded in agreement.
¡°It¡¯s a good thing you didn¡¯t disclose the truth..¡±
Chapter 357 - 357: Let Me Think About It Again
Chapter 357: Let Me Think About It Again
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
If Qin Zhenzhen had truthfully told the magistrate¡¯s wife that she and Su Bin shared a room, it could have spelled serious trouble. It was highly likely that thescivious Crown Prince would immediately feign illness and devise a scheme to lure Qin Zhenzhen back to the capital.
However, a different predicament still loomed ahead.
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t dwell on it too much and responded calmly, ¡°Don¡¯t fret about that. Extracting information from me isn¡¯t that simple.¡±
This incident had taught Qin Zhenzhen that despite these women appearing gentle and delicate, they were anything but simple. Fortunately, she wasn¡¯t a n?IVe girl who would divulge that she had consummated her marriage with Su Bin.
Su Bin nonchntly reminded her, ¡°But you did reveal one secret. We won¡¯t be having children anytime soon.¡±
It was only then that Qin Zhenzhen realized that the lecherous Crown Prince wouldn¡¯t care whether she was a virgin or not. As long as she remained childless, he would continue to harbor intentions toward her.
In essence, she had been outwitted by the magistrate¡¯s wife.
Nevertheless, even if she had said nothing about contraception, the oue might have been the same. In any case, the absence of children presented its own set of problems.
Qin Zhenzhen had a throbbing headache.
It wasn¡¯t feasible for her to bear a child with Su Bin in such a short span. However, they needed to find a solution at this point.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but nce at Su Bin. ¡°How do you propose we handle this situation?¡±
Su Bin had an idea. ¡°One option is to feign pregnancy.¡±
¡°And?¡±
¡°Then we pretend to have an ident, and then the child is gone.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was silent for a long time.
Pretending to be pregnant seemed like a viable solution, but it was clear that this method couldn¡¯t be used repeatedly. Furthermore, Qin Zhenzhen had just informed the magistrate¡¯s wife that they were using contraception, so if they suddenly had a child, it might raise suspicions. There was the risk that they would doubt the authenticity of the pregnancy and even suspect Su Bin, potentially exposing the secrets he was concealing.
As the Crown Prince, even if he had lost his virility, those around him were unlikely to be inept. If they investigated Su Bin due to suspicions surrounding this matter, it wouldn¡¯t be impossible for them to uncover some traces of his intelligencework.
Su Bin ventured quietly, ¡°Do you think it might seem suspicious if we feign a pregnancy and then a sudden ¡®ident!?¡±
¡°Actually, I¡¯m not entirely convinced it¡¯s a good idea either. What if we¡ª¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt a bit uneasy. ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±
Was Su Bin taking this opportunity to suggest that they should expedite their attempts to have a child? She hadn¡¯t fully thought this through!
Su Bin responded, ¡°We could avoid going to the capital in the future. I won¡¯t participate in the capital examination either.¡±
¡°We could move back to the countryside or reside in Meijiang Prefecture City.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t believe that the wretched Crown Prince can track us down if we live a secluded life in the countryside.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen gazed at Su Bin in astonishment. ¡°Are you serious?¡±
Su Bin nodded resolutely. ¡°Yes, I genuinely believe it¡¯s the best course of action.¡±
¡°What about your aspiration to make a name on the Golden List and honor your father¡¯s legacy?¡±
Su Bin spoke calmly, ¡°People¡¯s priorities can shift. I believe this is the most prudent way to avoid a direct confrontation with the Crown Prince.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s emotions were in turmoil.
Was Su Bin genuinely willing to forgo the opportunity to achieve recognition on the Golden List for her?
Why couldn¡¯t she take that next step with Su Bin?
However, even if she were willing to take that step, was it appropriate to have a child at the age of 15 or 16?
Perhaps waiting for at least another year would be a wiser choice!
That despicable Crown Prince! Qin Zhenzhen sighed and said, ¡°Let me reconsider this.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s get some rest for now..¡±
Chapter 358 - 358: It Would Be Strange If You Could Hear It
Chapter 358: It Would Be Strange If You Could Hear It
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After settling into bed, a heavy silence lingered between them. Nevertheless, both were aware that the other wasn¡¯t asleep.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t resist breaking the silence, attempting to shift the conversation. ¡°Why don¡¯t you inquire about what transpired at the banquet?¡± He sought to divert her attention.
Qin Zhenzhen appeared distracted. ¡°What else could possibly ur at a banquet? Isn¡¯t it just eating, drinking, distributing rewards, putting on a show, and reciting poetry?¡±
Su Bin remarked, ¡°It¡¯s bound to be more than that.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen suddenly grasped the situation. ¡°Ah, I see. ording to the magistrate¡¯s wife, wealthy merchants offer beauties as prizes. Those who are both handsome and hold high status might have a chance to win one.¡±
¡°Even if you¡¯re not a married High Schr, you might still be a son-inw to one of these affluent merchants.
¡°Are you implying they took an interest in you?¡± ¡°Or are they nning to gift you a beauty?¡±
Su Bin nodded in affirmation.
¡°So you were already aware of this.¡±
Yet, she didn¡¯t appear the least bit concerned. She didn¡¯t even inquire further.
Was this the reason she didn¡¯t take him seriously?
Qin Zhenzhen found herself genuinely taken aback. ¡°What¡¯s going on? Are you facing some predicament?¡±
Su Bin offered an awkward smile. ¡°What sort of trouble could I possibly encounter? Everyone knows I¡¯m already married. I don¡¯t stand a chance to be a son-inw.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt ufortable hearing this. Even she did not realize that his words made her feel a little sour.
¡°Then do you feel regretful?¡±
¡°What regrets do I have? My wife is beautiful and capable. There¡¯s no one else in the world who wouldn¡¯t envy me.¡±
Even that wretched Crown Prince tried toy im.
¡°True, there may be wealthy businessmen offering beauties, but I won¡¯t entertain their advances.¡±
¡°In my life, you alone are sufficient.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback.
It was undeniable that she possessed beauty and capability, but their rtionship was purely in name. He hadn¡¯t even sought her consent.
With this in mind, Qin Zhenzhen asked him earnestly, ¡°Do you still remember what I told youst time?¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°I remember.¡±
¡°You mentioned that we could only be together if both of us had feelings for each other.¡±
¡°I¡¯vee to realize that I already hold deep affection for you because I can¡¯t fathom days without you by my side. My heart quickens every time Iy eyes on you these days. If you doubt me, you can feel it for yourself.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen closed her eyes.
She noticed that her own heart was now racing.
What in the world? Su Bin could employ such old-fashioned words of love to flirt with her.
She waspletely smitten with this young man.
In his presence, she became increasingly unsettled.
Su Bin continued with his customary sweet words.
¡°If you haven¡¯t fallen for me yet, then I¡¯ll persist until you do.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll dedicate my life to proving it. I¡¯m a man worthy of your affection.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart raced as she opened her eyes and turned to face Su Bin. ¡°How do you n to prove it? What do you have in mind?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s excitement surged. ¡°May I hug you?¡±
Before Qin Zhenzhen could react, Su Bin swiftly embraced her.
¡°You¡ let go!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen blushed furiously.
This guy hadunched a sneak attack!
She had assumed Su Bin wouldn¡¯t release her, but to her surprise, he let go swiftly.
¡°Your heart is pounding so rapidly.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but scold him.
¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense! It¡¯s strange if you could hear the heartbeat through clothes!¡±
Chapter 359 - 359: My Wife’s Heart Will Get Closer and Closer to Him
Chapter 359: My Wife¡¯s Heart Will Get Closer and Closer to Him
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The following day, Su Bin dispatched a messenger to deliver a message to the governor, informing him of their imminent return to Meijiang Prefecture City.
Given Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s reliance on the governor for her affairs in the provincial capital, it was prudent to notify him of their departure. Maintaining a respectful demeanor was also essential.
Shortly after their carriage departed, a covert guard discreetly slipped a note to Su Bin.
After perusing the message, Su Bin instructed the coachman, ¡°Pick up the pace.¡±
¡°Of course!¡±
The carriage, which had already been moving briskly, now sped up even further.
Inside the carriage, the passenger¡¯s bnce was slightly disrupted.
Su Ning leaned against Qin Zhenzhen.
Perplexed, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°What¡¯s happening? Are we being pursued by wolves?¡±
Su Bin smiled wryly and replied, ¡°No wolves, but there¡¯s a predicament.¡±
Furrowing her brow, Qin Zhenzhen questioned, ¡°What kind of predicament?¡±
Su Bin handed the note to Qin Zhenzhen.
Upon reading the contents, Qin Zhenzhen seethed with anger.
It appeared that Su Bin had received a secret letter some time ago. The governor had personally appeared and presented two beautiful maids to Su Bin.
It was evident that this scheme was concocted by the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince must have believed that Su Bin would ept the two maids gifted by the governor. Subsequently, he intended to exploit these two beauties to disrupt the rtionship between Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen.
No wonder Su Bin had decided to depart for Meijiang Prefecture City this morning.
When the governor sent someone to send the maid to their residence, they had already set off.
However, the governor was persistent. He had dispatched a man to pursue them.
It was likely that the man was instructed to convey to Su Bin that he should wait in the carriage with the two beautiful maids.
This exined why Su Bin had ordered the carriage to elerate; he regarded the two beauties as a source of trouble.
Nheless, he couldn¡¯t afford to disrespect the governor. His only recourse was to ensure that they couldn¡¯t catch up.
But would they really send these beauties all the way to Meijiang Prefecture City?
Qin Zhenzhen addressed Su Bin earnestly, ¡°This isn¡¯t a big issue. Two beauties are just two more mouths to feed.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s expression soured, and he sounded somewhat aggrieved. ¡°Wife, do I hold no ce in your heart at all?¡±
¡°You don¡¯t mind if someone bestows a beauty upon me?¡±
¡°The crux of the matter is that this giftes from the governor. Not only are they spies for the governor, but they¡¯re also instruments intended to disrupt our rtionship!¡±
In front of Su Ning, Qin Zhenzhen felt a tad ufortable and hastened to borate, ¡°I haven¡¯t finished yet.¡±
¡°What I mean is, if you¡¯re agreeable, I can arrange for them to assist in the kitchen.¡±
¡°If the governor inquires, you can inform him that these two beauties don¡¯t align with your preferences.¡±
Su Bin smiled with satisfaction.
¡°How could I not trust you?¡±
¡°Actually, I¡¯ve contemted this possibility for a while. I was merely concerned that you might misinterpret my intentions. Now, let¡¯s execute your n!¡±
¡°In the future, no matter who sends me beauties, I¡¯ll ept them all and allocate them to my wife.¡±
¡°Those who possess good character and are willing to lead a simple life can be the wives of your subordinates.¡±
¡°I apologize if they don¡¯t meet the criteria. We¡¯ll assign them to more suitable roles.¡±
He had expected this oue. It was unrealistic to assume that Qin Zhenzhen would be entirely indifferent to him.
As long as he took gradual steps forward, his wife¡¯s heart would continue to draw closer to him.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Of course.¡±
She was in agreement, essentially conveying to Su Bin that she had already embraced him.
Su Bin naturally recognized this and found himself in high spirits. ¡°Wife, would you like me to reduce the carriage¡¯s speed?¡±
¡°It¡¯s your choice.¡±
Su Bin promptly decelerated the carriage..
Chapter 360 - 360: The Two Beauties
Chapter 360: The Two Beauties
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
As the carriage gradually slowed down, the individuals dispatched by the governor managed to catch up with them.
The man on horseback exined his purpose and handed Su Bin a letter from the governor, which indeed echoed the content of the secret letter Su Bin had received.
The letter expressed the governor¡¯s sympathy for Su Bin and noted that he and Qin Zhenzhen did not even have maids to attend to them. Thus, he had thoughtfully chosen two capable maids to present to them. These two maids were traveling in the carriage behind.
The letter, however, also conveyed a subtle message,prehensible to all men.
These two maids were not only exceptionally beautiful but could also serve as personal attendants. In ancient times, a man¡¯s personal maid was akin to a concubine maid.
After a brief while, the carriage behind caught up.
In ordance with protocol, Su Bin maintained an outward show of respect for the governor. He exchanged a few pleasantries with the governor¡¯s representative, primarily expressing gratitude for the governor¡¯s generosity.
Subsequently, two stunningly attired women alighted from the carriage and approached them.
Qin Zhenzhen drew back the curtains and couldn¡¯t help but mutter under her breath. What kind of maids were these? They were clearly two alluring women who had undergone specialized training!
Regrettably for them, Su Bin had no interest in their type.
The two women stood beside Su Bin.
One of them sweetly curtsied to Su Bin. ¡°Young Master Su, I am Tang Yingying, and I am wholeheartedly at your service from this day forward.¡±
The other woman followed suit. ¡°Young Master Su, I am Tang Cuicui, and I pledge to serve you to the best of my abilities.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen observed the scene with amusement. It appeared that they had eyes only for Su Bin and paid no attention to her whatsoever.
Su Bin addressed the two men who had escorted the maids, saying, ¡°Kindly extend my sincere appreciation to the governor for his benevolence. Inform him of my profound gratitude.¡±
As the provincial governor, once he extended an invitation to the new High Schrs, they all effectively became his students, and Su Bin was no exception.
Since the carriage that had brought the two women belonged to the governor¡¯s residence, it was only natural for them to return in the same carriage.
Given that the two secret guards could not suddenly be invisible and were thus incapable of transporting the two women on a horse, the women were left with no alternative but to share the carriage with Qin Zhenzhen and the others.
Once the governor¡¯s carriage had departed, Su Bin pivoted and entered the carriage.
Tang Yingying, who had been following closely behind, addressed him sweetly, ¡°Young Master, I¡¯m having difficulty getting up. Could you assist me¡¡¯
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning exchanged a cold nce.
This was the first time Qin Zhenzhen had witnessed a woman employing such coquettish behavior toward a man. So, this was how it was done.
Pretending not to hear, Su Bin upied a seat beside Qin Zhenzhen.
Tang Yingying appeared somewhat forlorn and made her plea once more, ¡°Young Master, I¡¡±
Su Ning could no longer endure it and stood up. ¡°Enough with the act! Get up here quickly, or we¡¯ll leave you behind!¡± Tang Yingying attempted to negotiate further. ¡°Young Master¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen gazed at them icily.
¡°Did the governor send you here to serve Master, or do you expect Master to serve you?¡±
Tang Yingying¡¯s face flushed, and her voice retained its sweetness. ¡°I understand that my purpose here is to serve Young Master, but this carriage is rather high¡¡±
Su Ning reprimanded, ¡°You can¡¯t even board such a low carriage, and you aspire to serve others?¡±
¡°I¡¯ll repeat it. If you don¡¯t get in, you¡¯ll have to chase after the carriage!¡± Su Ning was on the verge of shutting the carriage door.
Tang Cuicui grew slightly anxious, fearing that she might genuinely be left behind. She took a couple of steps forward, poised to board.
However, Tang Yingying, unyielding in her resolve, seized Tang Cuicui¡¯s arm.. ¡°Quit trying to show off!¡±
Chapter 361 - 361: Their Other Mission Is to Be a Spy
Chapter 361: Their Other Mission Is to Be a Spy
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Tang Yingying, however, was unyielding. She pulled Tang Cuicui back and admonished, ¡°Stop putting on a show. This carriage is quite high. How can we possibly board it?¡±
¡°If you injure yourselves, how can you serve Young Master?¡±
Tang Yingying understood that they were dispatched by the governor, who was also effectively the governor¡¯s man. Since Su Bin had epted them, he undoubtedly would not dare to abandon them en route.
Their intent was to make Qin Zhenzhen realize that their positions were more significant than mere maids.
Qin Zhenzhen was left utterly speechless. These two women were undeniably thick-skinned.
In reality, the carriage was not particrly high. Even Su Ning, at her young age of nine, could effortlessly climb aboard. Was it usible that the two of them would break their bodies trying to do the same?
Su Ning nced at her elder brother. If he gave the signal, she would immediately close the carriage door!
The more she observed these two women, the more repulsed she felt. She was concerned that her distaste might causeplications for her Third Sister-inw.
Finally, Su Bin interjected, ¡°You genuinely won¡¯te up?¡±
The two women hastily nodded. ¡°Young Master, we truly cannot ascend¡¡¯
Before they couldplete their exnation, Su Bin hollered toward the carriage, ¡°Brother Chen,e over for a moment.¡±
¡°Alright!¡±
Big Brother Chen had grown impatient from waiting.
He harbored an inexplicable displeasure toward these two refined beauties.
Upon Brother Chen¡¯s arrival, Su Bin directed, ¡°Kindly assist these twodies into the carriage.¡±
¡°But, Young Master, this¡¡±
No matter how obtuse Brother Chen might be, he discerned that these two lovely women were in reality, concubines the governor had bestowed upon the young master.
Being servants, Brother Chen knew better than to embrace their bodies.
The two beauties paled, too. ¡°Young Master, how can we do that? We are your subordinates, Young Master. We cannot allow other men to touch us¡¡¯
Su Bin questioned Brother Chen with a grim countenance, ¡°Why? Are you refusing to obey my orders? Or perhaps youck the strength to lift them?¡±
Big Brother Chen¡¯s face reddened. ¡°I have the strength!¡±
Without further ado, he disregarded the protestations and followed Young Master¡¯s directive. He hoisted Tang Yingying and gently deposited her into the carriage.
¡°Young Master, I don¡¯t want him to carry me¡¡± Tang Yingying protested. Nevertheless, Brother Chen had already ced her into the carriage, leaving her feeling somewhat embarrassed.
No one extended a hand to help her up. As Tang Yingying was about to rise, Tang Cuicui restrained her.
Brother Chen then shut the carriage door.
¡°Let¡¯s proceed!¡±
¡°Understood!¡±
Big Brother Chen swiftly mounted the carriage, brandished the whip, and urged the horses forward. ¡°Hya!¡±
The carriage rmenced its journey. By happenstance, the road was uneven, causing the carriage to sway involuntarily.
The two beauties inside the carriage had just managed to rise when they tumbled once more. They were in an exceedingly sorry state.
Upon standing yet again, their expressions did not appear too pleasant. They grasped that Su Bin was impervious to their stratagems.
Moreover, he was not inclined to have them as concubines.
They could only sit obediently on the stools.
If bing concubines was not an option, they would assume the role of maids. Their other mission was to serve as spies for the Crown Prince.
They reached Meijiang Prefecture City under the cover of darkness.
The two beauties were directed to the servants¡¯ quarters for their amodation.
The following morning, they donned borate makeup and sought out Su Bin.
However, upon arriving at the entrance to Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s residence, they were halted by an elderly woman.
¡°Young Master and Madam are still resting.¡±
Tang Yingying dered, ¡°The two of us are Young Master¡¯s personal maids. We intended to attend to Young Master upon his awakening.¡±
Following her statement, she attempted to force her way inside.
However, the elderly woman sneered, ¡°Are you the maids bestowed upon
Young Master by the governorst night?¡±
Tang Yingying nodded proudly. ¡°Indeed! Now, let us through!¡± The elderly woman sneered once more.. ¡°Truly immodest women!¡±
Chapter 362 - 362: If You Do This Again, It’ll Distort Him
Chapter 362: If You Do This Again, It¡¯ll Distort Him
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Before Tang Yingying could react, Auntie Lin¡¯s expression soured.
¡°Our young master is extremely particr about cleanliness. Since both of you have been carried by a man, you are no longer eligible to serve as his personal maidservants.¡±
¡°I can only be servant girls.¡±
¡°The two of you, follow me. One will tend to the front and back courtyards¡¯ flowers and nts, while the other will handle the cleaning duties.¡±
¡°Both tasks require early mornings, and I¡¯ll personally instruct you on the proper methods.¡±
Tang Yingying was taken aback. ¡°We wish to see the Young Master! We were actually given to you by the governor¡¡±
Auntie Lin didn¡¯t wait for Tang Yingying to finish speaking and signaled to the two servants.
¡°Take them to the backyard so thev don¡¯t disturb the Young Master and Madam. ¡±
The two servants promptly escorted Tang Yingying and Tang Cuicui away.
Auntie Lin had her own methods for disciplining maids. Disobedience resulted in a whipping, andziness meant no food.
In less than three days, Tang Yingying and Tang Cuicui became markedly more obedient.
Though they were forced into these rough maid roles, they had no choice but to endure their misfortune.
Initially, they believed that Su Bin dared not ept them because of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s influence. After all, could any man in the world be entirely free from lustful desires?
They secretly resolved to work diligently if they ever had the chance to be alone with Su Bin.
However, their hopes were dashed after half a month passed.
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen had returned to their hometown and hadn¡¯t seen each other in weeks.
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen had returned home because Su Bin¡¯s sister was on the verge of giving birth.
Perhaps due to the well-rounded nutrition, Su Lan¡¯s belly appeared exceptionallyrge, causing Qian Shanmin to worry about his wife and child¡¯s safety.
Qin Zhenzhen had already made a trip back earlier when she noticed Su Lan¡¯s condition. Concerned, she decided to remain by Su Lan¡¯s side to support her through childbirth.
Unexpectedly, Su Bin insisted on apanying her.
Qin Zhenzhen posed a serious question, ¡°Are you truly willing to forgo the Capital Examination?¡±
Only a few months remained until the Capital Examination, and he hadn¡¯t dedicated himself to rigorous study at the prefectural school. Was he truly prepared to abandon this opportunity?
Su Bin nodded resolutely. ¡°I¡¯ve pondered this deeply. Even if I attain a high ranking on the Golden List, it¡¯s meaningless to be a high official if I¡¯m not serving a wise ruler.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen offered a rational analysis. ¡°Apart from his indulgences, the current emperor has shown wisdom in other matters.¡±
¡°Since ascending the throne, he has undertaken numerous initiatives for the people and dealt sternly with corrupt officials.¡± ¡°Furthermore, he can prioritize the bigger picture despite his personal ws.¡±
¡°Such a monarch is indeed worth supporting.¡±
Su Bin agreed, saying, ¡°You¡¯re right, my dear. The current emperor has his merits. He is astute and considers the greater good.¡± ¡°Perhaps he might even hold me in high regard.¡±
¡°But the Crown Prince is a menace!¡±
¡°If he ascends to the throne, will we have any hope left?¡±
As Su Bin spoke, he discreetly passed a sealed letter to Qin Zhenzhen, freshly received.
The letter revealed a shocking truth: to lure Qin Zhenzhen to the capital, the Crown Prince had resorted to poisoning his secondary consort.
Subsequently, the Crown Prince sought an imperial decree from the Emperor, summoning Qin Zhenzhen to the capital under the pretense of treating his ailing secondary consort.
The Emperor, upon dispatching an imperial physician to investigate, uncovered the Crown Prince¡¯s malicious scheme. He sternly rebuked the Crown Prince and issued a grave warning.
He cautioned that if the Crown Prince persisted in such reckless behavior, he would face disinheritance.
The fact that a crown prince was fixated on a woman already married into another family, and furthermore, a granddaughter-inw of the Marquis Mansion, would undoubtedly trigger a major scandal. It would tarnish the royal family¡¯s reputation irreparably.
Even if the Crown Prince managed to seize Qin Zhenzhen in the end, the Imperial Family would suffer immeasurable humiliation.
Faced with the Emperor¡¯s unyielding stance, the Crown Prince had no choice but to abandon his treacherous n..
Chapter 363 - 363: Not necessarily a Bad Thing
Chapter 363: Not necessarily a Bad Thing
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Upon reading the secret letter, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t contain her disdain.
¡°Such a despicable individual deserves a short and wretched existence!¡±
It was apparent that the Crown Prince and Chu Tiansheng were locked in a dire struggle for survival.
The Crown Prince aimed to eliminate Chu Tiansheng, while Chu Tiansheng, as the male lead, remained untouchable. Thus, it seemed inevitable that the Crown Prince would meet a premature end.
Su Bin, puzzled by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s statement, inquired, ¡°Wife, how did youe to that conclusion?¡±
Only then did Qin Zhenzhen realize her slip of the tongue and rified, ¡°I mean, he has a precarious fate to begin with! If we hadn¡¯t exposed the Eighth Imperial Uncle¡¯s plot, he would have met his demise long ago!¡±
¡°We spared his life, but he continues to plot against us. I believe that karma will catch up to him!¡±
Su Bin chuckled. ¡°Wife, I concur. I suspect his days are numbered!¡±
¡°It will be more fitting for me to consider participating in the Capital Examination after his demise.¡¯
¡°True talents will always shine. There¡¯s no rush for these few years.¡±
¡°Actually, I don¡¯t necessarily need to secure a spot on the Golden List. If I want to honor my father¡¯s memory, there are numerous paths to achieve that.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t need to seek personal glory. I must protect my younger siblings and lead a fulfilling life. Preserving the Su family¡¯s legacy is another way to honor my father¡¯s memory.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found herself torn, uncertain whether Su Bin¡¯s perspective was right or wrong.
In the story, Su Bin had risen to the position of Grand Secretary at a young age, relying not only on luck but also on sheerpetence.
To be frank, it would be a missed opportunity if someone as capable as Su Bin didn¡¯t ascend to a high-ranking official position.
Since the moment Qin Zhenzhen decided to ept Su Bin, she had grappled with conflicting thoughts. Was it more advantageous for Su Bin to remain inconspicuous or to rise to prominence?
Remaining inconspicuous had its merits, as it meant steering clear of the web of scheming officials and straying away from the plotline of the book. The likelihood of him evolving into a formidable antagonist was nearly non-existent.
This way, he could avoid bing a rival to Chu Tiansheng, and Su Ning wouldn¡¯t meet her tragic fate of relentlessly pursuing Chu Tiansheng to no avail.
However, there were advantages to the other path.
Su Bin possessed the potential to upy the position of Grand Secretary, wielding significant influence in the Imperial decision-making process. If he didn¡¯t take a dark path, it could be a boon for the realm¡¯s inhabitants.
As Grand Secretary, he might employ strategic means to persuade the emperor to disinherit the Crown Prince beforehand, thus averting future predicaments.
Qin Zhenzhen shared her contemtions with Su Bin, though she refrained from explicitly suggesting that he could be the Grand Secretary.
While Su Bin held great confidence in his abilities, he doubted his capability to swiftly rise to the esteemed rank of Grand Secretary. Hence, he didn¡¯t entirely align with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ideas.
¡°I can assure you that I¡¯ll earn a spot on the Golden List, but I can¡¯t promise an immediate ascent to the position of Primus.¡±
¡°Even if I secure the Primus and assume a role in the capital¡¯s administration, it¡¯s probable that I¡¯llmence from a lower-ranking post.¡±
¡°Effectively influencing the emperor¡¯s decisions would be a formidable challenge without holding a higher official status.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was somewhat taken aback. Su Bin, who had always exuded confidence, now appeared quite humble.
¡°Isn¡¯t your intelligencework at your disposal?¡± she asked. ¡°Even if your official rank isn¡¯t high, can¡¯t you utilize alternative means to handle the Crown Prince?¡±
Su Bin nodded thoughtfully. ¡°Even if I don¡¯t secure a capital post, I must find a way to confront that wretched Crown Prince!¡±
¡°In fact, not bing a capital official might be more advantageous in dealing with him. I won¡¯t arouse his immediate suspicion.¡±
¡°But once we reside in the capital, it bes perilous. Living there poses risks.¡±
¡°Thus, I won¡¯t participate in the capital examination next spring.¡± Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t attempt to dissuade Su Bin any further.
As he put it, it might not be a poor decision after all..
Chapter 364 - 364: Received New News
Chapter 364: Received New News
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Su Lan gave birth to a healthy, plump baby boy, and both mother and son were safe and sound.
This fortunate oue wasrgely thanks to Qin Zhenzhen. who had prepared and administered spiritual water to Su Lan in advance, even applying it at the birth canal. This was done to prevent injuries and alleviate her pain during childbirth.
As a pleasant surprise, Qin Zhenzhen also discovered another remarkable effect of the spiritual water: it enhanced muscle sticity. Consequently, Su Lan¡¯sbor was rtively painless and swift.
The baby weighed approximately nine catties, a considerable size by any measure. In modern times, such a birth might have necessitated a significant medical intervention. However, to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s astonishment, the child was born smoothly, with Su Lan emerging from the experience unscathed. It was truly a marvel.
The entire family was overjoyed, wearing beaming smiles, with Qian Shanmin radiating an unparalleled happiness. This year had brought him sess and prosperity. He had demolished their old home and constructed arger one. Coincidentally, his son¡¯s birth aligned with their move to the new house, leading many to believe that the residence was now blessed with good fortune.
However, Qian Shanmin was quick to rify, ¡°It¡¯s my wife who brings prosperity to her husband and family!¡±
In a bid to better support his wife and child, he had hired a helper¡ªa middle-aged woman experienced in tending to expectant mothers and infants. Additionally, he acquired a maid specifically to care for Su Lan and her child. He treated Su Lan and Wang Yizhi¡¯s daughter as his own, disying boundless love and care.
Observing his brother-inw¡¯s genuine care for their sister, Su Bin felt reassured.
With his sister and brother-inw settled into their new home, supported by household staff, Su Bin decided it was time to take Su Cheng to the prefecture capital.
This time, Su Cheng didn¡¯t insist on staying behind. His initial hesitation stemmed from concerns for his sister¡¯s well-being.
Having spent a year studying in town, Su Cheng had gained a broader perspective. While he hadn¡¯t initially aspired to pursue education as a means of livelihood and had never considered taking the Cultivated Talent exam, he now recognized that neither he nor his siblings wished for him to remain in Qian Family Vige indefinitely. He didn¡¯t desire it either.
If he harbored ambitions, he knew he had to venture to the prefecture capital. Third Sister-inw¡¯s business had already expanded to the capital, and she required trustworthy assistance. Even if he wasn¡¯t particrly inclined towards business, he could acquire a valuable skill and be apetent individual.
At the age of thirteen, he was ready to start as an apprentice, a significant step toward his future endeavors.
The night before his departure for the prefecture capital, Su Bin appeared lost in thought, prompting Qin Zhenzhen to inquire, ¡°Have you received troubling news?¡±
Despite her familiarity with the original book¡¯s plot, the alterations in their own timeline left her uncertain about what might unfold next.
Su Bin nodded thoughtfully. ¡°It seems that way.¡±
Following their exit from the provincial capital, the governor had marshaled his forces to conduct an exhaustive search throughout the city for the middle-aged man and the youth. Some individuals resembling the Third Prince and his mentor had been apprehended during the process. To the uninformed, it might have appeared that the governor was diligently fulfilling his duties.
However, Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen were well aware that the governor was acting on the Crown Prince¡¯s behalf. If they discovered the critically injured Third Prince, he would undoubtedly eliminate him.
The Third Prince had likely recognized this as well and refrained from seeking assistance from the governor. Furthermore, he couldn¡¯t risk revealing his true identity.
Su Bin spected that the Third Prince and hispanions were likely hiding in an undisclosed location for recovery, possibly even seeking refuge with the Flying Cloud Tribe.
The Flying Cloud Tribe¡¯s leader had ties to the General Manor, a detail that might elude others but not the Third Prince.
Su Bin didn¡¯t withhold this information from Qin Zhenzhen, and he had received fresh updates today..
Chapter 365 - 365: This Scheme Is Extremely Vicious
Chapter 365: This Scheme Is Extremely Vicious
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Today, Su Bin received some startling news.
The governor hadposed a memorial and dispatched it to the pce, urging the emperor to deploy troops to encircle the Flying Cloud Tribe. His reasoning rested on the capture of the ck-d individuals, who had confessed to being subordinates of the Flying Cloud Tribe¡¯s Master.
Furthermore, one of the captured individuals had divulged a shocking revtion: despite outwardly appearing loyal to the Imperial Court after their recruitment, the Flying Cloud Tribe had ndestinely plotted a rebellion. Allegedly, the Flying Cloud Tribe¡¯s Master had been amassing troops in their stronghold, necessitating substantial funds. This predicament had driven them to adopt the life of bandits.
Their activities included not only plundering wealth from affluent merchants beyond the mountains but also epting contracts for assassinations, kidnappings, and extortion. The simultaneous mobilization of numerous ck-d operatives indicated their audacity, as such actions within the provincial capital implied that someone had paid them handsomely for the capture of the middle-aged man and the youth¡ªeither for abduction or, as ast resort, termination.
The ck-d operative was unaware of the identities of the middle-aged man and the youth, save for their martial prowess and the connection of master and disciple. To facilitate their capture, they had falsely used the pair of rape.
Currently, the middle-aged man and the youth had been apprehended by their cohorts and taken to the Flying Cloud Tribe. During the attack, the middle-aged man had inadvertently disclosed the youth¡¯s true identity as the Third Prince.
The governor had also attached two portraits, based on witness descriptions of the middle-aged man and the youth. He expressed his regret that despite deploying extensive resources in their search, they had failed to uncover any leads.
He also dispatched a representative to the Flying Cloud Tribe to seek their perspective. The response he received was unequivocal: the Flying Cloud Tribe had no involvement in this matter whatsoever. The ck-d individuals had intentionally framed the tribe.
The governor contemted leading his troops into the vige for a search, but his limited number of soldiers posed a challenge. Thus, he opted to escte the matter to the Imperial Court, requesting reinforcements to encircle and subdue the tribe.
Initially, the emperor harbored skepticism about the notion that the Flying Cloud Tribe would rebel. Over the decades, the tribe had demonstrated unwavering loyalty and cooperation with the Imperial Court. It functioned much like arge town, its inhabitants engaged in agriculture and craftsmanship. In contrast to the outside world, martial arts held significance within the tribe, and they maintained their own fortress guards. Their castle was exceptionally resilient, making it easily defensible and formidable to assail.
As a result, the Imperial Court periodically dispatched officials for inspections but consistently found nothing amiss.
However, the emperor¡¯s perspective took a grave turn when heid eyes on the portraits. The presence of the Third Prince and his mentor in the images escted the matter¡¯s urgency.
Ultimately, the emperor sumbed to the advice of certain ministers, who had been swayed by the Crown Prince¡¯s bribes. He chose to dispatch officials to the Flying Cloud Tribe, but prior to encirclement, they needed concrete evidence of rebellion.
Special officials and military troops had already embarked on their journey, scheduled to reach the provincial capital in approximately four days. Notably, the officials were affiliated with the Crown Prince.
Ultimately, the matter of obtaining conclusive evidence restedrgely in his hands.
This n was extremely vicious.
For the Flying Cloud Tribe to exonerate themselves, they might need to acknowledge that their Master hailed from the General Manor and served as the Third Prince¡¯s granduncle. It would be imusible for them to entertain any involvement in an assassination attempt against the Third Prince.
However, if this truth were to surface within the Imperial Court, the emperor might respond with fury, suspecting a deliberate concealment by the General
Manor. This suspicion would further reinforce the notion that the Flying Cloud Tribe had conspired with the General Manor in plotting a rebellion.
If these usations were substantiated, both the General Manor and the Third Prince would bear grave consequences.
Therefore, if the Flying Cloud Tribe failed to voluntarily disclose their connection to the General Manor, the repercussions would be even more severe..
Chapter 366 - 366: You Can’t Go Back on Your Words So Quickly
Chapter 366: You Can¡¯t Go Back on Your Words So Quickly
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Su Bin had already sold this news to the Flying Cloud Tribe. However, the Flying Cloud Tribe did not have any response.
The Third Prince also did not show his face.
This made Su Bin unable to figure him out.
What method would the Third Prince and the others use to deal with the Crown Prince?
After knowing this, Qin Zhenzhen finally understood what Su Bin was thinking.
¡°Are you worried that the Third Prince won¡¯t be able to defeat the Crown Prince?¡±
Su Bin said, ¡°That¡¯s right. If the Third Prince loses, no other prince canpete with the Crown Prince.¡±
¡°That bastard Crown Prince will undoubtedly take over the throne.¡± ¡°The more powerful the Crown Prince is, the greater the threat to us.¡±
¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯ve always hoped that the Third Prince could defeat the Crown Prince.¡±
¡°If possible, I¡¯m willing to help the Third Prince.¡±
Qin Zhenzhenforted Su Bin. ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. The Third Prince won¡¯t be killed by the Crown Prince so easily.¡±
He had the halo of a protagonist.
¡°He has the General¡¯s Manor behind him. If the Emperor is smart enough, he won¡¯t easily punish the General¡¯s Manor.¡±
¡°If the borders of the northern border are not protected by the General¡¯s
Mansion, they might be broken through by the invaders one day.¡±
Su Bin looked at Qin Zhenzhen seriously. ¡°If the Third Prince is killed and the Crown Prince¡¯s power grows, he will find an excuse to summon you to the capital. What will we do then?¡±
¡°If you defy the decree, your entire family will be implicated.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded to Su Bin with utmost seriousness, asserting, ¡°There won¡¯t be any unexpected mishaps!¡±
¡°And if such an opportunity truly arises, it¡¯s not as if we can¡¯t handle it.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve contemted this thoroughly. We can be a genuine couple.¡±
Having voiced her decision, Qin Zhenzhen felt a sense of relief. She had finally arrived at a resolute choice and no longer wavered.
Though still young, she harbored no regrets about this decision.
Curiously, there wasn¡¯t much discord between the Crown Prince and Su Bin. On the contrary, the Crown Prince was insistent on her presence at his residence. If Su Bin were to voluntarily withdraw, it would likely please the Crown Prince, possibly even benefiting him.
However, Su Bin had never perceived it from this perspective; his focus remained on safeguarding her.
In his past confrontations with formidable adversaries like the Empress Dowager and the Jiang Family, Su Bin never yielded. This time, he was prepared to sacrifice his career to ensure her safety and even contemted assisting the Third Prince in contending with the Crown Prince.
Such a man was undoubtedly deserving of her trust with her life.
Su Bin was visibly taken aback. ¡°Are you serious? Have you genuinely considered this?¡±
Suddenly, Qin Zhenzhen felt mischievous and took a step closer, extending her hand to grasp Su Bin¡¯s chin. ¡°Indeed, I¡¯ve thought it through. Are you ready?¡±
This unexpected action startled Su Bin once again, causing him to instinctively step back.
Was she implying sharing a room?
It must be. She had just said that they could be a real couple.
In other words, his wife had already acknowledged him!
Qin Zhenzhenughed. ¡°Look at how scared you are¡¡±
Unexpectedly, Su Bin took a bold step forward, his face flushed, and he enveloped Qin Zhenzhen in a warm embrace. He excitedly whispered, ¡°Wife, I¡¯m fully prepared!¡±
Taken aback by his unexpected action, Qin Zhenzhen contemted pushing Su Bin away. However, she found herself strangely powerless, her body growing limp. Her heart raced, leaving her with a crucial decision to make: should she consent to the prospect of spending the night together or suggest postponement?
As Su Bin softly murmured in her ear, ¡°Wife, you can¡¯t change your mind so quickly.¡±
Blushing profusely, Qin Zhenzhen abandoned her futile attempts to resist.
Since they were on the path to bing a genuine couple, an affectionate embrace felt perfectly appropriate¡
Chapter 367 - 367: Looking Forward
Chapter 367: Looking Forward
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Qin Zhenzhen had already formted a n. If Su Bin proposed the idea of spending the night together, she would convey that their rtionship should progress incrementally, following the path of bing a genuine couple.
eptance would be the initial stage, followed by hugging as the second step, and kissing as the third¡
She believed that it would take some time for them to grow closer and better understand each other. Eventually, she might befortable with the idea of sharing a bed.
Su Bin had never contemted immediate consummation, but he continued to hold onto her with a firmer embrace, refusing to release her. Instead, he pulled her closer and closer.
Qin Zhenzhen, slightly diforted, inquired, ¡°Why are you holding on so tightly?¡±
Su Bin evaded her question and yfully remarked, ¡°Wife, I can sense your heart racing.¡±
Blushing furiously, Qin Zhenzhen denied, ¡°No¡¡±
Observing the deep red hue on her cheeks, Su Bin teasingly continued, ¡°Wife, yourplexion resembles a rosy blush.¡±
¡°Perhaps, if you embrace me more frequently in the future, we can save money on rouge.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s blush intensified. ¡°When did you see me buying rouge?¡±
¡°But I must admit, you look even more enchanting with a touch of rouge.¡± Su Bin¡¯s gaze fell to her reddened lips, and he lowered his head.
Nervously, Qin Zhenzhen covered her lips with her hand. ¡°I believe we should take things one step at a time. The first step is eptance, the second is hugging, and the third¡¡±
¡°What¡¯s the third step?¡±
¡°The third step is a slight progression beyond the second step¡¡±
The words she couldn¡¯t bring herself to say left Qin Zhenzhen red-faced and flustered.
Su Bin felt sweet and said happily, ¡°I know. The third step is kissing, right, wife?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯splexion mirrored the vivid hue of a crimson fabric. A sudden realization struck her, and she asserted, ¡°No, the second step is for you to hug me. The third step¡ it¡¯s for me to hug you!¡±
Amused, Su Bin chuckled and concurred, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll abide by your n.¡±
Relieved, Qin Zhenzhen hadn¡¯t expected Su Bin to readily embrace her idea. She eximed, ¡°Wife, you¡¯re absolutely right. Let¡¯s take it one step at a time.
There¡¯s a small surprise awaiting us each day.¡±
With her heart pounding, Qin Zhenzhen contemted that these daily surprises might eventually lead to something quite indescribable.
Curiously, she found herself looking forward to it.
The following morning, Qin Zhenzhen, Su Bin, and Su Cheng embarked on their journey to the county city. This time, they were apanied by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cousins on their way to the prefectural capital.
Inside the carriage, the presence of Su Cheng restrained Su Bin from any romantic gestures. However, whenever their eyes met, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but recall the events of the previous night, causing her face to blush uncontrobly.
Last night, Su Bin had insisted on hugging Qin Zhenzhen to sleep, and the consequences were apparent. Consequently, neither of them had slept soundly, and in the end, Su Bin had relocated to the study to rest.
Concerned, Su Cheng noticed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s flushed face and inquired, ¡°Third Sister-inw, are you feeling unwell? Your face is quite red.¡±
Shaking her head, Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°I¡¯m perfectly fine, Third Brother. It¡¯s just quite warm inside the carriage.¡±
Upon reaching the county, they continued their journey with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s cousins in tow.
Upon arrival at the prefectural capital, Qin Zhenzhen received another letter from Qin Silong. At the border of the northern region, Qin Silong and Su Ping had parted ways and were stationed in separate military camps.
After half a year, Qin Silong¡¯s rebirth had endowed him with a unique insight into forting events, allowing him to swiftly ascend from a decurion to a centurion within the ranks. Furthermore, there was the possibility of his promotion to the rank of chiliarch in the near future.
In his letter to his sister, he eagerly shared this positive news with her. He also made mention of Su Ping, whom he had encountered once during their joint military duties. That solitary encounter marked the only time the two had crossed paths since their arrival at the military camp..
Chapter 368 - 368: Qin Silong’s Letter
Chapter 368: Qin Silong¡¯s Letter
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Qin Silong had strong convictions that he would not end up bing a bandit. Upon learning about his impending promotion to a captain, Su Ping expressed his own determination to work diligently.
As Qin Zhenzhen finished reading the letter, she couldn¡¯t help but smile. She hadn¡¯t anticipated that her fourth brother would be Su Ping¡¯s newfound inspiration. Simultaneously, Su Bin received a letter of his own, assuring his family of his safety and detailing his current situation. In the letter, he expressed hismitment to matching Qin Silong¡¯s aplishments. Knowing that Qin Silong was on the cusp of bing a chiliarch, Su Bin aimed to work diligently and achieve a promotion to the same rank in the near future.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but smile at the thought of his troublesome second brother now having a clear life goal. He believed that, barring any unforeseen circumstances, his second brother would undoubtedly blossom into a sessful military officer. He felt a deep gratitude towards Qin Zhenzhen and her fourth brother for guiding his second brother onto the right path.
Despite being privy to some of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s secrets, Su Bin still remained in the dark about Qin Silong¡¯s ndestine matters. Based on the reports from the Dragon Phoenix Hall at the military camp, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but ponder whether Qin Silong possessed an uncanny ability to foresee the future due to his seemingly extraordinary luck.
Since Su Bin had assumed control of the Dragon Phoenix Hall, its once-dormant members had begun to emerge and be more active throughout the country.
The intelligencework of the Dragon Phoenix Hall operated through a hierarchical structure, with a Hall Master and a Branch Hall Master in each region. Historically, the position of Hall Master had been held by Mr. Chen¡¯s father, followed by Mr. Chen himself. Currently, Su Bin held the position of Hall Master, with Mr. Chen willingly serving as the Deputy Hall Master.
Beneath the Branch Hall Masters, there were numerous branches scattered throughout different regions, and their members were dispersed across the entire country. They had operatives in various military camps, ensuring a widespread presence.
Upon Su Ping and Qin Silong¡¯s deployment to the Northern border camp, Su Bin tasked Mr. Chen with monitoring their activities. Simultaneously, he instructed Mr. Chen to provide support to help them establish themselves in the military camp.
However, as per reports from their operatives, it appeared that Qin Silong didn¡¯t require external assistance. He disyed remarkable self-sufficiency and an uncanny ability to foresee future events. His exceptional luck propelled him to the rank of chiliarch in just half a year, with each promotion earned through his own meritorious battle achievements.
Su Bin received the letter and decided to share it with Qin Zhenzhen. He approached her and said, ¡°Wife, Second Brother has sent a letter. Let me show you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen hesitated but ultimately epted the letter. ¡°It¡¯s not good for me to read the letter Second Brother gave you, right?¡±
Su Bin shook his head with a reassuring smile. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that? We¡¯re family now. Our lives are intertwined.¡±
With that, he handed the letter over to Qin Zhenzhen, who began reading it quickly. Once she had finished, Su Bin inquired, ¡°I heard that Fourth Brother also wrote a letter to you. Would you mind showing it to me?¡±
He harbored suspicions that both Qin Silong and Qin Zhenzhen possessed some kind of extraordinary ability, potentially linked to their shared secrets. Their power seemed to extend into the realm of predicting future events, such as the time Qin Silong saved their sister.
However, if Qin Zhenzhen refused to reveal the contents of Qin Silong¡¯s letter, it was evident that there was more to their secret than met the eye.
Nevertheless, if she chose to share it, Su Bin hoped to uncover any hidden clues that might lie between the lines.
Qin Zhenzhen, however, declined his request firmly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but it¡¯s not convenient. Fourth Brother and I discussed some private matters in his letter, and I don¡¯t want to invade his privacy.¡±
Su Bin looked somewhat disappointed but respected her decision. ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t insist..¡±
Chapter 369 - 369: Fourth Step
Chapter 369: Fourth Step
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Seeing the disappointment on Su Bin¡¯s face, Qin Zhenzhen took a moment to think before concocting a story.
¡°My fourth brother has fallen for someone special. He¡¯s nning to confess his feelings, but he¡¯s waiting for the perfect moment.¡±
¡°But he¡¯s also worried that if he doesn¡¯t act soon, that special someone might ept another proposal.¡±
Unexpectedly, Su Bin, filled with curiosity, asked, ¡°Darling, is this girl your fourth brother¡¯s affectionate interest, Uncle Chen¡¯s daughter, Chen Shanshan?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was caught off guard.
Su Bin¡¯s words triggered a memory.
When she and Fourth Brother first arrived in the prefectural city, they were staying with Uncle Chen.
Chen Shanshan had a straightforward personality. Initially, she admired Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s medical skills, but after witnessing Fourth Brother¡¯s abilities, her admiration shifted towards him.
She even persistently pestered Fourth Brother to teach her horseback riding and archery,pletely disregarding traditional gender norms.
Chen Shanshan was a few months older than Qin Zhenzhen, already at the age of 16. In ancient times, an unmarried and unengaged 16 -year-old girl was quite unusual.
To her knowledge, suitors had approached the Chen family with marriage proposals, but Chen Shanshan consistently postponed marriage.
In most cases, when a girl acted this way, it hinted at a secret love interest who hadn¡¯t yet proposed.
Could it be that Su Bin¡¯s intuition was correct? Had Chen Shanshan set her sights on her fourth brother?
However, her clueless Fourth Brother remainedpletely unaware of Chen Shanshan¡¯s feelings.
She hadn¡¯t given it much thought at all.
In Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mind, she believed that Chen Shanshan¡¯s reluctance to marry promptly stemmed from her desire to continue learning from her.
It became apparent to her that she needed to gather more information about Chen Shanshan. Once she had confirmed her suspicions, she nned to seek Fourth Brother¡¯s opinion.
A mischievous grin crossed her face as she thought about the prospect of ying matchmaker if Fourth Brother shared the same feelings.
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s radiant expression, Su Bin believed he had guessed correctly. However, Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t about to confirm it.
¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t share that with you right now,¡± she said with a yful twinkle in her eye. ¡°I promise to tell you as soon as I have more information.¡±
¡°Alright,¡± Su Bin didn¡¯t press further, but he reached out to embrace Qin
Zhenzhen, whispering softly in her ear, ¡°Wife, it¡¯s the third step.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen hesitated for a moment before reaching out to hug Su Bin gently.
¡°Wife, can you put a little more strength into it?¡±
¡°Of course,¡± she replied, tightening her hold on Su Bin, who reciprocated.
¡°Wife, do you feel the connection?¡±
¡°Yes.¡±
Fearing that a negative response would lead to an even tighter embrace, she couldn¡¯t hold back any longer.
The scorching embrace, the warm breath, and the unique words of love all stirred her maiden heart. ¡°Wife, is my waist thin?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not thin. It¡¯s just right.¡± ¡°Wife, is my chest firm?¡±
¡°Yes it is.¡±
¡°How can you be so sure it¡¯s solid?¡± she inquired, having neverid her hands on it before.
¡°I just felt it!¡± Su Bin responded with a touch of childishness in his tone. Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but find his question increasingly whimsical. It
was as It tne seventeen-year-old Su Bin was revealing ms Innermld.
She pondered if she was really going to share a bed with him.
To her surprise, Su Bin questioned her once more, ¡°Wife, is the fourth step kissing?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head instinctively. ¡°No!¡±
¡°If it¡¯s not a kiss, then what is it?¡± Su Bin persisted.
Qin Zhenzhen found herself momentarily at a loss for words.
Su Bin whispered, ¡°I¡¯ll leave the fourth step to you.¡±
Protesting, Qin Zhenzhen retorted, ¡°I¡¯ll decide!¡±
Su Bin chuckled. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll follow your lead.¡±
He relished the journey of drawing closer to both of them..
Chapter 370 - 370: Serious Consideration
Chapter 370: Serious Consideration
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One night, an uninvited guest made their way to Su Bin¡¯s residence, concealing their identity behind a mask. Su Bin had forewarned two trusted guards not to interfere with the unexpected visitor.
Prior to this nocturnal encounter, Su Bin had received a cryptic letter from someone who had hinted at an impending visit, identifying themselves as an uninvited guest. This mysterious individual possessed extraordinary martial skills, capable of vanishing without a trace.
Before disappearing once more, this enigmatic guest left behind a pair of gleaming gold bars along with a note. The note expressed gratitude towards Su Ning, without specifying the identity of the youth whose life she had saved. It hinted that, had Su Ning not acted promptly, the young man might have perished from his injuries.
The note remained silent on the guest¡¯s own identity but indicated a return visit within a day. Su Bin had a strong inkling as to the guest¡¯s true identity, given the limited number of individuals in the world with such martial prowess. It was likely Lin Yue, the mentor of the Third Prince.
Beyond expressing gratitude to Su Ning, it was clear that Lin Yue had ulterior motives for delivering the gold bars. He sought to uncover the secrets held by Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen.
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen were ustomed to discussing matters openly with each other. Su Bin turned to his wife and posed a question, ¡°My love, if the Third Prince¡¯s camp intends to involve us in their affairs, what course of action should we take? Should we agree to meet him?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen, having deciphered Su Bin¡¯s penchant for strategic thinking, replied with a question of her own, ¡°What are your thoughts?¡±
She understood that while Su Bin had his own n in mind, he still valued her input and sought their decisions to be mutual.
On one hand, Su Bin treated Qin Zhenzhen with the utmost respect, but on the other hand, he harbored a hidden agenda, aiming to extract information from her.
Qin Zhenzhen sensed that Su Bin had a multitude of questions for her. She suspected that both she and her Fourth Brother were guarding some hidden truths from everyone.
Su Bin¡¯s suspicions ran deep. He questioned whether Qin Zhenzhen had truly acquired her skills from her grandmother or if she possessed an extraordinary ability to foresee the future. His doubts even extended to her identity, pondering whether she was the original Qin Zhenzhen or not. After all, he was well aware of the profound affection she had for him, which set her apart from the previous owner of her body.
Nheless, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t reveal the entirety of her secrets to Su Bin at this moment.
Observing that Qin Zhenzhen had returned the conversation to him, Su Bin shared, ¡°Based on the information I¡¯ve received, the individual who visited us appears to be Lin Yue, the mentor of the Third Prince.¡±
¡°He has already delivered the gold bars, and it seems we won¡¯t have much choice when we meet again.¡±
¡°He possesses remarkable martial prowess, capable of facing dozens of adversaries in ck. My two secret guards may not match his skill, and I don¡¯t want them to discover the existence of the Dragon Phoenix Hall. Hence, my guards will remain inactive.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen regarded him with a thoughtful expression. ¡°So, you already have a n in mind. You intend to meet him. But what happens after the meeting?¡±
Su Bin had previously expressed his willingness to assist the Third Prince in dealing with the Crown Prince if the opportunity arose. If indeed it was the Third Prince¡¯s agents who had sought him out, he might be unable to conceal his identity.
However, Su Bin possessed the acumen not to reveal his true self too hastily.
Su Bin shook his head and said, ¡°Actually, I want to hear your thoughts on this matter. It¡¯s about our future.¡¯
¡°I believe we should approach this with careful consideration.¡±
¡°They might have noticed something about the Dragon Phoenix Hall, but I don¡¯t want anyone to know about it yet.¡±
¡°Perhaps he came this time only to thank Sixth Sister for saving his disciple.¡±
¡°But we can¡¯t rule out the possibility that they want to pull you and me into their camp.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about this for days..¡±
Chapter 371 - 371: The Enemy of My Enemy Is My Friend
Chapter 371: The Enemy of My Enemy Is My Friend
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Su Bin insisted on listening to her. Qin Zhenzhen could only express her stance. ¡°Let¡¯s see what he wants from us first. It¡¯s not toote for us to make a decision.¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll listen to you.¡±
A dayter, the middle-aged man arrived as promised.
Su Bin met him in the study. Qin Zhenzhen hid behind the screen and did not show her face.
This time, the middle-aged man did not disguise his face. Su Bin recognized him at a nce. He was the Third Prince¡¯s master, Lin Yue.
Su Bin had already obtained the portraits of the Third Prince and Lin Yue.
¡°Young Master Su, I¡¯m sorry to disturb you.¡±
After saying that, Lin Yue introduced himself. ¡°I¡¯m the Third Prince¡¯s master,
Lin Yue.¡±
¡°I¡¯m here to thank your sister for saving the Third Prince¡¯s life.¡±
Su Bin stood up from his seat in shock. ¡°Is what you said true?¡±
Lin Yue observed Su Bin¡¯s reaction calmly and confirmed, ¡°Everything I have said is true. The Third Prince suffered severe injuries and is currently recuperating within the Flying Cloud Tribe.¡±
Su Bin looked like he could not understand at all.
¡°Actually, I also thought that the person Sixth Sister saved that day might not be a rapist, but I don¡¯t understand. Why did the Third Prince hide in the Flying Cloud Tribe instead of seeking the help of the authorities?¡±
Lin Yue told Su Bin bluntly.
¡°If I tell you that the Third Prince was chased by the Crown Prince, would you believe me?¡±
¡°This¡¡± Su Bin¡¯s expression changed.
Lin Yue chuckled.
¡°Young Master Su, I understand your caution.¡±
¡°But there must be a reason why I came to seek you out once more,¡± Lin Yue continued.
¡°The soldiers who are poised to encircle the Flying Cloud Tribe will arrive shortly. This information was provided to us by the Dragon Phoenix Hall.¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but feel a touch of embarrassment. ¡°So, you already know. You went through all this trouble to hide your identity and perform a good deed, and yet, it still became apparent.¡±
He adopted a feigned expression of helplessness, which amused Qin Zhenzhen. Su Bin had effectively downyed her role as the hall master, referring to her as merely the person in charge of a branch. Astonishingly, Lin Yue seemed to buy into the charade, making it a tightly veiled alias.
Simultaneously, Su Bin showcased his own capabilities. It appeared that he had deliberately allowed a gap in his facade to tip off the Flying Cloud Tribe that he was the informant, anticipating their cooperation.
Lin Yue fixed a piercing gaze on Su Bin. ¡°Young Master Su, you seem to be privy to a multitude of secrets!¡±
¡°I am aware of the Crown Prince¡¯s ambitions to eliminate the Third Prince. I am also acquainted with the connection between the Flying Cloud Tribe and the Third Prince. Furthermore, I know that the governor is in allegiance with the Crown Prince.¡±
Su Bin discarded all pretense and respondedposedly, ¡°Apart from the association between the Flying Cloud Tribe and the Third Prince, the other two revtions are no longer concealed.¡±
¡°While the Crown Prince currently enjoys a secure position, his advisors still deem it necessary to eliminate any potential threats.¡±
¡°The other princes are too young to pose any challenge. The only viable threat to the Crown Prince is the Third Prince.¡±
Lin Yue¡¯s expression was uncertain. He asked with a dark expression, ¡°Can you exin why you¡¯re doing this?¡±
Su Bin said calmly, ¡°I also know that the more I know, the faster I die, but I also know that the enemy of my enemy is my friend.¡±
¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve heard about the Crown Prince peeping at my wife.¡±
¡°That¡¯s why I took the risk of revealing my identity..¡±
Chapter 372 - 372: Flying Cloud Tribe Master (1)
Chapter 372: Flying Cloud Tribe Master (1)
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The following day, Su Bin received thetest update: the officials and soldiers dispatched by the Imperial Court had already arrived at the provincial capital. They were likely preparing to depart for the Flying Cloud Tribe after a brief rest.
The journey from the provincial capital to the Flying Cloud Tribe would take approximately a day. In this first face-off, the oue of the battle between the Crown Prince and the Third Prince would be decided within the span of a day.
Su Bin maintained hisposure, heading to the prefectural school to continue his studies, diligently preparing for the uing capital
examination next spring. His aspiration was to be an official, preferably a
high-ranking one.
He recognized that holding a prominent position would enable him to execute his n to oust the Crown Prince effectively. Moreover, it would afford him better means to protect his beloved wife.
A consensus had been reached with Lin Yue the previous night: the Crown Prince was their shared adversary, and their ultimate objective was his removal from power.
The Third Prince enjoyed the backing of the General Manor, with his mentor holding significant influence in the martial world. It wasn¡¯t that the Third Princecked strength; furthermore, his reputation surpassed that of the Crown Prince.
The Third Prince and his allies had taken an interest in Su Bin due to the Dragon Phoenix Hall¡¯s formidable strength and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s remarkable abilities. Su Bin had promised to facilitate a meeting with the ¡°Hall Master¡± of the Dragon Phoenix Hall.
Perhaps they had not anticipated that Su Bin, initially perceived as a humble schr, would rise to be the hall master of the Dragon Phoenix Hall in such a short span. Lin Yue harbored no doubts about Su Bin¡¯s role within the Dragon Phoenix Hall.
With these considerations in mind, Su Bin harbored no concerns about the safety of the Flying Cloud Tribe.
Lin Yue said they already had a solution.
Shortly thereafter, Su Bin received a message from the Flying Cloud Tribe.
The Imperial Court¡¯s soldiers had just reached the doorstep of the Flying Cloud
Tribe when an urgent missive from the pce arrived. The Flying Cloud Tribe¡¯s Master, Chen Yufei, had decided to bring a captured man in ck to the capital in order to make amends.
In a candid confession, Chen Yufei revealed his true identity and detailed how he had married into the Flying Cloud Tribe, ultimately ascending to the role of its Master.
Chen Yufei had initially been a carefree scion of the General¡¯s Estate, distinguishing himself from his siblings. While his brothers had chosen military service or entered the imperial court to serve the empire, Chen Yufei had preferred a life of leisure, filled with travel andpanionship. Money and fame held little appeal for him, but he was an incurable romantic.
Fate intervened when he crossed paths with the eldest daughter of the Flying Cloud Tribe and fell deeply in love. At that time, despite the outward appearance of the tribe as farmers, they were in reality a group of more than a thousand bandits. The Master of the Flying Cloud Tribe also doubled as the leader of these bandits.
The eldest daughter of the Flying Cloud Tribe was none other than the daughter of this bandit leader.
Summoning his courage, Chen Yufei proposed marriage to the bandit leader. However, the bandit leader had a singr condition: he would only agree to the marriage if Chen Yufei was willing to marry into the Flying Cloud Tribe
himself.
Initially hesitant, Chen Yufei found himself unable to forget her. In the end, he made the life-altering decision to marry into the Flying Cloud Tribe.
Upon returning to the General¡¯s Estate to report his decision to his parents, he was met with vehement opposition. His parents not only disapproved but also warned Chen Yufei that such a choice would sever his ties with the Chen family. Undeterred, Chen Yufei remained resolute in hismitment to the person he loved. He was willing to sacrifice his familial bonds to be with the one who held his heart.
The General¡¯s Estate held an intense animosity toward their son for his perceived failure, and they harbored resentment toward the eldest daughter of the Flying Cloud Tribe, believing her to have ensnared their son. However, their deepest enmity was reserved for the bandit leader of the Flying Cloud Tribe, who audaciously allowed the general¡¯s son to marry into their ouwed fold.
In a determined bid topel Chen Yufei to reconsider his decision and to teach the bandit leader a lesson, the General¡¯s Estate presented a petition to the emperor of that era. The petition outlined the ten transgressionsmitted by the bandits of the Flying Cloud Tribe. It fervently beseeched permission to deploy troops to besiege their of the Flying Cloud Tribe¡¯s bandits..
Chapter 373 - 373: Flying Cloud Tribe Master (2)
Chapter 373: Flying Cloud Tribe Master (2)
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At that time, the emperor eded to the General¡¯s Manor¡¯s request. However, due to simultaneous border conflicts in the north, they refrained from permitting the General¡¯s Estate to besiege the Flying Cloud Tribe themselves. Instead, the emperor dispatched a separate contingent of soldiers to encircle the Flying Cloud Tribe.
In the end, through Chen Yufei¡¯s persuasive efforts, he sessfully convinced the bandit leader to ept the imperial court¡¯s offer of amnesty. Remarkably,
Chen Yufei managed to keep his true identity concealed throughout this ordeal.
The General¡¯s Manor, understandably embarrassed by the situation, chose to keep the matter shrouded in secrecy. Even Chen Yufei¡¯s siblings werergely kept in the dark about the events. To the public, they announced that Chen Yufei had embarked on an extended journey, during which he had not returned for an extended period. Some family members and outsiders, unaware of the truth, believed that he had passed away, even going so far as to erect a memorial tablet in his honor.
Within the confines of the Flying Cloud Tribe, aside from the bandit leader and Missy, no one was privy to Chen Yufei¡¯s true identity.
Chen Yufei revealed that since the Flying Cloud Tribe embraced their newfound path under imperial sponsorship, they had begun to reform their banditry habits. Gradually, they transitioned to agriculture and endeavored to mend their ways. Those who were amenable to change were provided assistance; those who remained obstinate and disruptive were turned over to the authorities for due process. Privately, they also dealt with many intractable bandits.
Over time, the bandits underwent a remarkable transformation, blending seamlessly into the fabric of an ordinary town.
Chen Yufei¡¯s ascendancy to the position of Flying Cloud Tribe Master was not a result of his affiliation with the General¡¯s Estate or his status as the son-inw of the bandit leader.
He earned the title of Tribe Master through an election, a testament to his individual merit and capabilities.
Chen Yufei had the liberty to travel to the Flying Cloud Tribe to gather evidence.
One day, Chen Yufei¡¯s son, Chen Ting, happened to witness the Third Prince being pursued by a group of menacing men in ck. Enraged by the audacity of one of these impostors, who posed as a member of the Flying Cloud Tribe and brazenlymitted a murder in the streets, Chen Ting took matters into his own hands. He rallied his associates and managed to apprehend several of the men in ck, including their leader.
Chen Ting then gantly rescued the injured Third Prince and his master.
During this tumultuous period, the governor had dispatched his agents to search for the Third Prince and his mentor. However, the Third Prince and his master adamantly refused any assistance from the government, particrly the governor of the Guang Mansion, fearing dire consequences if they fell into their hands.
Chen Ting, instead, transported the severely wounded Third Prince and his mentor back to the safety of the Flying Cloud Tribe for recovery.
Upon interrogating the captured men in ck, they uncovered that these individuals were in the service of the Crown Prince.
Chen Yufei was cognizant of the connection between the Third Prince and the General¡¯s Estate, recognizing that the Third Prince was his grandnephew. Nevertheless, he understood the gravity of the situation, involving a life-and-death struggle between rival princes, which necessitated reporting to the Imperial Court.
Consequently, he made the resolute decision not to surrender the grievously injured Third Prince to any external authority.
Furthermore, Chen Yufei discerned that the men in ck dispatched by the
Crown Prince must have possessed knowledge of his identity, prompting them to impersonate members of the Flying Cloud Tribe in their pursuit of the Third Prince.
Their aim was to eliminate two targets with a single strike¡ªboth the Third Prince and the Flying Cloud Tribe.
After much deliberation, Chen Yu resolved that he must journey to the pce without dy. Apanied by his aides and the few captured men in ck, they disguised themselves as merchants and sessfully reached the capital. Upon arrival, they promptly apprised the General¡¯s Manor of the grave condition of the Third Prince.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the General¡¯s Manor wasted no time and escorted Chen Yufei to the pce, where they candidly presented all relevant details to the emperor.
The emperor personally conducted an interrogation of the captured men in ck, who readily confessed to being death warriors under themand of the Crown Prince. They revealed that the Crown Prince had dispatched a group of 30 death warriors to assassinate the Third Prince upon learning of his intention to visit the Guang Mansion for a specific purpose.
Enraged by this revtion, the emperor summoned the Crown Prince to the pce for a confrontation..
Chapter 374 - 374: I Hope You Made the Right Choice
Chapter 374: I Hope You Made the Right Choice
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In the presence of witnesses and incriminating evidence, His Highness the Crown Prince vehemently denied any association with the men in ck, staunchly asserting that he had no knowledge of their actions. He went so far as to swear upon the heavens that he would meet a gruesome fate if he had indeed ordered an assassination on his Third Brother.
The Crown Prince borated, contending that his Third Brother had always been frail and infirm, requiring respite in a temple, remaining aloof from worldly matters. He insinuated that his Third Brother was mentally unstable, which could exin his alleged attempt to harm him.
¡°Father,¡± the Crown Prince continued, ¡°someone must have stolen my guard¡¯s token and impersonated me to carry out this heinous act against Third Brother. Their intent was to create discord between us and achieve the sinister goal of eliminating two adversaries in one stroke.¡±
¡°In recent times, remnants of the previous dynasty have been growing increasingly audacious. This could very well be their machination. It¡¯s not an imusible scenario.¡±
After contemting the matter at length, the emperor found merit in the Crown Prince¡¯s reasoning.
Seizing the opportunity, the Crown Prince added, ¡°The governor of the Guang
Mansion is fervently urging you, Father, to deploy troops and encircle the Flying Cloud Tribe, with the intention of eliminating Third Brother. He is highly likely to have been corrupted by remnants of the previous dynasty.¡± ¡°I beseech you, Father, to conduct a thorough investigation into the governor of the Guang Mansion!¡±
The Crown Prince had never anticipated that individuals from the Flying Cloud Tribe would intervene to save his Third Brother, capturing the leader of the ck-d assants along with the token in his possession. What¡¯s more, Chen Yufei had swiftly brought both the token and a prisoner to the capital, personally confessing his past before the emperor.
Given the abundance of witnesses and evidence, the Crown Prince found himself with no choice but to relinquish his scheme.
The governor, in turn, had not anticipated being cast aside so swiftly by the Crown Prince, effectively bing a scapegoat in the unfolding drama.
The emperor felt that His Highness the Crown Prince had be smarter and analyzed it very urately.
Nevertheless, evidence held paramount importance. With a decisive stroke of his imperial brush, the emperor issued a decree mandating an immediate investigation into the governor of the Guang Mansion.
Furthermore, he dispatched an urgent message to the officials of the Flying Cloud Tribe. Until the specially appointed officials arrived, no unauthorized entry into the Flying Cloud Tribe would be permitted. Instead, they were instructed to establish a camp on the outskirts and dispatch a representative to pay a visit to the Third Prince, adhering to his instructions diligently.
Upon receiving this news, Su Bin confided in Qin Zhenzhen, saying, ¡°The governor¡¯s fate seems sealed this time. The Crown Prince will surely concoct a scheme to link him with the remnants of the previous dynasty.¡±
¡°He won¡¯t have a defense and will meet his end with remorse.¡¯
¡°But he won¡¯t be able to shift the me elsewhere. His own greed for wealth and glory and his blind loyalty to a scoundrel like the Crown Prince are the root causes.¡±
¡°To be honest, I had a hunch that this would be the oue.¡±
¡°The strategist in the Crown Prince¡¯s camp is undeniably formidable.¡± ¡°Bringing down the Crown Princepletely won¡¯t be a walk in the park.¡± ¡°But I¡¯ve always had a high opinion of the Third Prince.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and replied, ¡°I hope your faith in him is well-ced.¡±
Their choice had proved correct, as Qin Zhenzhen herself would have intervened if it were otherwise.
Su Bin embraced Qin Zhenzhen affectionately.
¡°Wife, amidst all thismotion with the Flying Cloud Tribe, I almost forgot about us. We need to nurture our rtionship step by step.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen lightly tapped his back and yfully chided, ¡°Have you truly forgotten? It doesn¡¯t seem that way at all!¡±
¡°I was just worried that your thoughts would be consumed by these matters, leaving no room for your studies. We wouldn¡¯t want your reputation to suffer!¡±
Despite Su Bin¡¯s diligent attendance at the academy to pursue his studies, the moment he returned home today, he embraced her tightly and showed no intention of letting go, even daring to steal a quick kiss from her lips. Fortunately, the kiss was but a fleeting caress.
Now, his gaze fixated on her lips once more, clearly harboring the desire for another kiss.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart raced, and her cheeks flushed crimson.
However, Su Bin expressed his surprise, saying, ¡°Wife, does this mean I¡¯ve been relegated to the anonymous ranks on your list?¡±
Chapter 375 - 375: Court Record
Chapter 375: Court Record
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Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. She had momentarily forgotten that this world was purely virtual, devoid of any ties to certain historical references, which exined why Su Bin was puzzled by her remark. Nevertheless, even without direct allusions, Su Bin¡¯s sharp intellect undoubtedly grasped the intended meaning behind her words.
With a nod, Qin Zhenzhen affirmed, ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±
As she spoke, she gently pushed Su Bin away, saying, ¡°Allow me to share the story behind that phrase.¡±
Su Bin, evidently intrigued, momentarily forgot his amorous intentions as he urged, ¡°Please, go on.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen proceeded to narrate the tale in great detail. Su Bin eximed, ¡°Wife, your knowledge is truly extensive!¡±
¡°I assume you¡¯ve read countless books. May I inquire about the source of this story?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had plotted to gradually unveil her secret to Su Bin. Observing his genuine curiosity, she responded earnestly, ¡°It¡¯s from the ¡®Court Records¡¯ by
Fan from Song.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s surprise deepened. ¡°From Song? The Song Dynasty?¡± Qin Zhenzhen nodded, reassuring him, ¡°You could interpret it that way.¡± ¡®¡±Court Records¡¯? Fan Gongzhi? Why haven¡¯t I heard of this?¡±
¡°It¡¯s not umon that you haven¡¯te across it,¡± Qin Zhenzhen began to fabricate a tale. ¡°Let me share a secret with you. I often experience vivid dreams. The scenes in my dreams are remarkably clear, as if I¡¯m an active participant within them.¡±
¡°It¡¯s a book I read in my dream.¡±
¡°I remember the full passage went like this,¡± Qin Zhenzhen began, her memory impable. She proceeded to recite the ancient text without a single omission:
¡°Sun Shan, hailing from Wu, was a peculiar schr. When he visited other prefectures, the locals were so captivated by his wisdom that they willingly apanied him. However, their expectations waned, and as Sun Shan found himself at the bottom of the rankings, the vigers decided to return home prematurely. Upon their return, they queried their son about his gains and losses. Sun Shan responded, ¡®Sun Shan¡¯s reputation may be lost here, but true wisdom extends beyond my own self.¡¯
Su Bin¡¯s jaw nearly dropped in astonishment.
¡°Wife, can you truly recite the entire court record?¡± ¡°Are there numerous such stories within the court records?¡± ¡°Do all these allusions conceal their unique tales?¡±
He was right. His wife was undoubtedly harboring secrets.
Furthermore, she was evidently prepared to divulge them to him.
Could this be her way of progressively bridging the gap between them, step by step? Their physical closeness mirrored their emotional connection.
Ultimately, they converged as one entity.
Su Bin was ted, eagerly anticipating his wife¡¯s revtion of further secrets.
If she could trulymit the entire court record to memory, he hungered to learn its contents.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head, smiling warmly. ¡°I don¡¯t possess a photographic memory; how could I memorize an entire book?¡±
¡°However, I can divulge that the ¡®Court Records¡¯ essentially chronicles the history of the Fan family. It epasses the ancestral deeds of the Fan family, spanning governance, familial teachings, and various aspects. It delves into the intricate political affairs of the imperial court, including reforms, the bureaucratic system, and more.¡±
¡°It also epasses notable schrs, renowned literary works, verses, and misceneous affairs. Aside from revered masterpieces, it contains an array of poems, proverbs, and anecdotes.¡±
¡°Moreover, there are some renowned aphorisms,¡± Qin Zhenzhen continued.
¡°There are two particr sayings that remain etched in my memory: ¡®Punish yourself with the heart of a person, and forgive others with the heart of a person.¡±¡®
Su Bin silently repeated these words to himself, ¡°Punish yourself with the heart of a person, and forgive others with the heart of a person.¡±
He couldn¡¯t help but feel skeptical about this approach.
¡°Wife, if we were to abide by these two maxims, wouldn¡¯t we be saints?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen struggled to suppress herughter. Su Bin, she realized, was undeniably a formidable rascal. Mere avoidance of wrongdoing already represented a significant leap for him. The prospect of bing a saint was quite out of the question..
Chapter 376 - 376: Cicada Shedding Its Shell
Chapter 376: Cicada Shedding Its Shell
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Qin Zhenzhen was determined to discover if Chen Shanshan held any romantic interest in her fourth brother, and she had decided to enlist Su Ning¡¯s assistance.
Su Ning and Chen Shanshan had a bond akin to that of biological sisters, making Su Ning the ideal confidante for probing into Chen Shanshan¡¯s feelings.
However, before Qin Zhenzhen could seek out Su Ning, Su Ning herself approached her with a pressing matter.
¡°Third Sister-inw, I need to ask you something,¡± Su Ning stated.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded, replying, ¡°Feel free to ask. If I¡¯m privy to the information, I¡¯ll certainly share it with you.¡±
The question had been gnawing at Su Ning for quite some time, and she had been eager to broach the subject with her third sister-inw.
¡°I overheard someone mention that the young man who was pursued in the provincial capital recently was the Third Prince. Is that true?¡± Su Ning inquired, her curiosity getting the better of her.
The revtion of the Third Prince being hunted in the provincial capital was no longer a well-kept secret. Even on the streets of Meijiang Prefecture City, it was a topic of widespread discussion.
Qin Zhenzhen responded truthfully, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s true. It¡¯s no longer a hidden fact. The Third Prince sustained severe injuries, but thanks to your timely intervention in staunching the bleeding and providing first aid, his life was saved. He is currently recuperating at the Flying Cloud Tribe.¡±
She continued, ¡°His master has visited once already, expressing gratitude by sending two gold bars and silver taels as a token of appreciation for saving his life. Your third brother and I were nning to inform you about this.¡±
Su Ning was ted to learn that she hadn¡¯te to the aid of a wrongdoer.
In response, Qin Zhenzhen produced a small box and unveiled its contents for Su Ning¡¯s inspection. ¡°These are the gold bars and silver taels sent by the Third
Prince¡¯s master, and they belong to you.¡±
Su Ning shook her head briskly. ¡°I have no use for them! I have my meals and shelter at home. What need do I have for gold?¡±
With a warm smile, Qin Zhenzhen countered, ¡°You deserve it. Consider it a nest egg, perhaps for your dowry.¡±
At the mere mention of the word ¡°dowry,¡± Su Ning¡¯s face turned crimson, revealing her shyness. ¡°Third Sister-inw, please don¡¯t bring up the topic of dowry. I¡¯m still so young¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled in response. ¡°You¡¯re not as young as you think. Time passes quickly. You might find yourself engaged before you know it, and in the blink of an eye, you¡¯ll be of marriageable age.¡±
At the mention of engagement, Su Ning¡¯s expression shifted as thoughts of the governor¡¯s youngest son crossed her mind. Thankfully, her third brother was not easily fooled; otherwise, she might have ended up as the governor¡¯s daughter-inw. The mere thought of it made her uneasy.
¡°What if the governor insists andes to propose marriage in a few years?¡± she pondered aloud.
Su Ning had met the governor¡¯s youngest son before and was less than impressed with his overly obedient and rigid demeanor. To make matters worse, his appearance was strikingly ordinary.
She continued with another query, ¡°Third Sister-inw, I¡¯ve also heard rumors that the governor of the provincial capital is a nefarious character. They say he conspired with remnants of the previous dynasty, the ones who sent assassins after the Third Prince. Is there any truth to this?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded affirmatively. ¡°From what I¡¯ve heard, it¡¯s true. In fact, Su Bin has received thetest updates. The emissaries from the emperor¡¯s court have already discerned the governor of the Guang Mansion¡¯s involvement with the remnants of the previous dynasty.¡±
They also uncovered that the governor¡¯s forebear had served as a minister in the previous dynasty.
All the me for these grave offenses would be squarely ced upon the governor.
His Highness the Crown Prince had managed to escape without incident, and thus, no harm had befallen him.
The act of assassinating a prince constituted a capital crime, and the governor and his brother¡¯s actions had jeopardized their entire family.
Due to the remarkable military aplishments of General Manor, the Emperor opted not to pursue any repercussions against it.
Simrly, he refrained from punishing the Master of the Flying Cloud Tribe,
Chen Yufei.
Nheless, once the imperial soldiers entered the Flying Cloud Tribe, they diligently conducted a three-day, three-night examination, ultimately confirming that all was in order. There were no indications of any illegal recruitment within the Flying Cloud Tribe, and the guards adhered to the regtions set forth by the Imperial Court.
Concurrently, the Emperor dispatched an imperial physician to the Flying Cloud Tribe to provide medical care for the Third Prince¡¯s injuries..
Chapter 377 - 377: Unfair
Chapter 377: Unfair
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Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s response, Su Ning let out a sigh of relief, a secret happiness filling her heart.
Now, she could finally find peace of mind. If the governor faced conviction, he would never get the chance to propose marriage to their family. She would never be bound to that stiff, little master for the rest of her life.
However, the thought of the governor¡¯s family suffering due to his colossal crime crossed her mind. Naively, Su Ning remembered how kindly the magistrate¡¯s wife had treated them and inquired of Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Third Sister-inw, if the governor is truly a bad person, will his family also face punishment?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in response. ¡°Yes.¡±
In a feudal society where imperial authority reigned supreme, an act like assassinating a prince would inevitably implicate multiple generations. She wondered if their entire family would face execution or be subjected to exile.
Thinking about it, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but contemte the significant impact of the magistrate¡¯s conviction on her own business. Fortunately, they had been prepared and had managed to mitigate their losses.
Su Ning¡¯s heart felt heavy. ¡°Third Sister-inw, why is it that when one personmits a crime, the whole family has to suffer? It seems so unfair. There are things the children may not even know about, but they still have to endure the consequences with their parent. It doesn¡¯t seem right.¡±
After a brief pause, Qin Zhenzhen responded earnestly, ¡°On the surface, it might appear unfair, but in a way, it is just. You may not fully grasp what I mean.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll provide you with an analogy to help you understand,¡± Qin Zhenzhen began.
¡°In this world, people are divided into different social strata. Some are born as impoverishedmoners, struggling for food and warm clothing since childhood. Others are born into servitude because their parents were ves, with no personal freedom. On the flip side, there are those who are born as aristocrats. They never worry about their basic needs, have dedicated servants at their beck and call, and are held in high esteem.¡±
¡°For instance, the children of the governor¡¯s family have enjoyed a life of luxury from the moment they were born. Their father, the governor, is responsible for granting them such a privileged life. Conversely, if their father were an outcast, then they, too, would be born into that outcast status or even into very if their fathers were ves themselves.¡±
¡°Because the prosperity and privileges bestowed upon the children of the prefectural magistrate¡¯s family stem directly from the governor, it¡¯s inevitable that they would share in his fate and suffer as well.¡±
¡°Do you grasp the concept?¡±
After a prolonged pause, Su Ning nodded.
¡°Yes, Third Sister-inw, I understand.¡±
Seeing that Su Ning still seemed somewhat mncholic, Qin Zhenzhen consoled her.
¡°I understand your sentiments. It does seem somewhat unjust to have a system where one¡¯s fortunes rise or fall, and aw that implicates nine generations. Anyone who dares to voice their opinions must be in favor with those in power.¡±
In ancient feudal society, achieving equality and abolishing the practice of one person¡¯s actions affecting nine generations seemed impossible.
However, a glimmer of hope sparked in Su Ning¡¯s eyes.
¡°Third Sister-inw, does one need to hold a high-ranking official position tomunicate with those in power?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in affirmation. ¡°Indeed, that¡¯s correct. They must hold a significant position to have their words carry weight and to be considered by those in power.¡±
Su Ning nodded resolutely. ¡°I understand, Third Sister-inw!¡±
¡°You mean that if Third Brother attains a high-ranking official position, he would have the authority tomunicate with the emperor, correct?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded again.. ¡°Yes!¡±
Chapter 378 - 378: There’s Something I Need You to Do
Chapter 378: There¡¯s Something I Need You to Do
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Su Ning expressed her joy, saying, ¡°Third Sister-inw, once Third Brother ascends to office, please implore him to strive towards rectifying these unjust systems.¡±
This time, Qin Zhenzhen refrained from nodding and replied, ¡°We¡¯ll have to wait and see. It won¡¯t be a simple task.¡±
Su Ning, being a young girl, often disyed her innocence and kindness. She saw only the surface of the magistrate¡¯s wife treating them well, unaware of the hidden agendas and schemes devised for their family¡¯s wealth.
Furthermore, the deeply ingrained feudal system would not yield to change solely on the counsel of a high-ranking official unless that individual held ultimate authority.
In the plot of the original book, the male lead, Chu Tiansheng, ascended to the throne and gradually abolished the traditional feudalws, recing them with a modern system. This transformation urred due to the influence of the female lead, who was a modern transmigrator. Chu Tiansheng cherished her deeply and followed her guidance. He even granted her the title of Empress, not only showering her with affection but also adopting the modern legal system at her suggestion.
As a result, the nation transformed into a society resembling modern times.
In reality, such a scenario was improbable.
However, in the world created by the author, if the author deemed it possible, then it could unquestionably ur. The current world they inhabited was a virtual realm derived from a book¡ªa world molded by the author¡¯s imagination.
How it began, how it evolved, and what it ultimately became ally within the author¡¯s creative purview.
Therefore, Qin Zhenzhen had no intentions of altering the subsequent plot.
In the book, after the female protagonist¡¯s transmigration, she would assist Chu Tiansheng in ascending to the throne and subsequently reform the country¡¯s legal system.
Qin Zhenzhen eagerly anticipated this development, imagining life in a system resembling modern society within an ancient era. The prospect of breathing clean, pollution-free air, gazing upon a pristine starry sky, and indulging in uncontaminated food excited her.
During her free moments, she envisioned touring naturalndscapes, admiring nature¡¯s exquisite craftsmanship, and reveling in the beauty of untouched ecological wonders, distinct from modern tourist attractions that often bore the mark of human intervention.
Now that Su Bin had aligned himself with Chu Tiansheng¡¯s faction, the likelihood of him turning to the dark side was minimal. Qin Zhenzhen could reasonably set her worries aside. Her current focus was on umting wealth, striving to be the wealthiest individual in the country.
Another objective was to prevent Su Ning from developing romantic feelings for Chu Tiansheng. The most effective approach would be to help Su Ning find a suitable engagement partner¡ªone who aligned with Su Ning¡¯s preferences.
As she aplished this second goal, Qin Zhenzhen felt a sense of relief. Su Ning was still young, and there was plenty of time to work toward this objective. ording to the book¡¯s plot, Su Ning¡¯s second encounter with Chu Tiansheng was ted to ur five or six years in the future. Qin Zhenzhen hoped that this aspect of the plot would remain unchanged.
Over the next five to six years, she wanted to ensure that Su Ning did not cross paths with Chu Tiansheng or engage in any interactions with him that could lead to deep infatuation and a tragic oue.
¡°Let¡¯s set this matter aside for now. Your third brother hasn¡¯t even participated in the Beijing examination yet, so it¡¯s premature to discuss it,¡± Qin Zhenzhen advised.
Su Ning nodded in agreement. ¡°I understand that I shouldn¡¯t have brought this up. Third Sister-inw, you won¡¯t hold it against me for being meddlesome, will you?¡±
¡°Why would I?¡± Qin Zhenzhen reassured her.
¡°Then please don¡¯t mention to Third Brother that I shared this with you.¡±
¡°Rest assured, I won¡¯t mention it to him.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen patted Su Ning¡¯s shoulder and changed the topic.
¡°I have something to ask of you.¡±
¡°Go and find out why Chen Shanshan is still not engaged.¡±
¡°It¡¯s best if we can find out if she has a sweetheart..
Chapter 379 - 379: Becoming a Scapegoat
Chapter 379: Bing a Scapegoat
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At the mention of this, Su Ning¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement.
¡°Third Sister-inw, leave this to me!¡± she dered.
Qin Zhenzhen held her back, inquiring, ¡°Have you already uncovered her secret?¡±
Su Ning chuckled mischievously. ¡°I¡¯m not entirely certain yet. I¡¯ll inform you once I¡¯m sure!¡±
¡°When it¡¯s all sorted out, don¡¯t forget to thank me!¡± she added before darting away like a swift breeze.
The notion of thanking her gave Qin Zhenzhen a clue. Could it be that Su Bin¡¯s suspicions were correct? Had Chen Shanshan developed feelings for her fourth brother? She still wasn¡¯t certain if they were romantically involved. Perhaps she was waiting for her fourth brother?
Qin Zhenzhen smiled wryly. Su Ning had inadvertently provided her with the answer.
If Su Ning confirmed this, she could promptly write to her fourth brother. If both parties expressed interest, she would immediately inform her parents, allowing them to consider the possibility of this union.
A month after the Third Prince¡¯s harrowing incident, the saga reached its conclusion.
The Imperial Court dispatched numerous investigators to probe the assault on the Third Prince.
The investigation unveiled a significant revtion: the governor¡¯s lineage could be traced back to a minister of the previous dynasty. Capitalizing on this familial connection, remnants of the previous dynasty had specifically targeted the governor and his brother, luring them with promises of high-ranking positions and wealth.
Swiftly, the two brothers found themselves ensnared in the web of conspiracy spun by these individuals.
Adding ayer ofplexity, the daughter of the governor¡¯s brother had once held the title of the Crown Prince¡¯s secondary consort. In this role, she had effectively acted as their informant, gathering crucial information from the Crown Prince¡¯s residence and discreetly transmitting it. Furthermore, she had managed to secure a token from the Crown Prince¡¯s personal guard.
Exploiting this intel, they had impersonated the Crown Prince and numerous actions detrimental to both the Imperial Court and the Crown Prince himself. Their scheme aimed to eliminate two princes with a single stroke.
Despite the Crown Prince not being renowned for his intellect, he had astute advisors at his side. The case was bolstered by a wealth of witnesses andpelling evidence, all of which appeared highly usible on the surface.
The situation was exacerbated by the fact that ministers who supported the Crown Prince werepelled by their own consciences to testify against the governor.
In his defense, the governor had vehemently argued that the Crown Prince masterminded the entire conspiracy. However, the Crown Prince remained resolute in asserting the governor¡¯s and his brother¡¯s culpability, even as they faced their impending punishment.
He implored the emperor to exact severe retribution upon the concubine¡¯s family.
There was little doubt about the oue of the investigation.
Upon the Emperor¡¯s swift approval, the Crown Prince¡¯s request was granted with a simple flourish of his pen.
The secondary consort of the Crown Prince¡¯s residence faced a grim fate as she was forced to consume a cup of poisonous wine and then unceremoniously cast into a mass grave.
For her family, which included the distant governor¡¯s household residing at the Guang Mansion, the outlook was bleak. If they were found to be implicated as masterminds of the conspiracy, they would share the same fate ¨C execution.
The male member of the family was condemned to the status of an official ve, with no chance of redemption.
The older women were assigned roles as official maidservants, while the younger women were relegated to the life of official courtesans and dispatched to a military camp. The youngest among them faced an even darker fate as they were sold into brothels.
Within the Crown Prince¡¯s faction, there had been a glimmer of hope that the Crown Prince might secretly intervene to spare one of their family members. However, this hope remained unfulfilled.
The family of the Crown Prince¡¯s secondary consort had been unfairly made scapegoats, and the ordeal had cast a long, dark shadow in the hearts of the ministers who had once supported the Crown Prince.
A master who could heartlessly abandon his subordinates, crushing them without remorse, was met with disdain and mistrust.
Meanwhile, the governor of Meijiang Prefecture, the younger brother of the prefectural magistrate¡¯s wife, held a rtively modest official position. Consequently, he had sessfully avoided entanglement in the Crown Prince¡¯s faction.
Unaware of the dramatic events surrounding the pursuit of the Third Prince, he remained untouched by the tumultuous storm. Nevertheless, a lingering sense of trepidation gripped him as he had contemted covertly leveraging his connections to rescue his sister. However, shocking news soon arrived: the prefect¡¯s wife had taken her own life, and all her offspring had met a tragic end..
Chapter 380 - 380: Three Years Later
Chapter 380: Three Years Later
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Before long, a newly appointed governor assumed office at the Guang Mansion, and to the delight of Qin Zhenzhen, he was aligned with the Third Prince.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s business in the Guang Mansion swiftly regained its momentum, and Su Bin faithfully delivered on his promise, facilitating the Third Prince¡¯s connection with the Dragon Phoenix Hall. They also agreed upon a suitable time for the Hall Master of the Dragon Phoenix Hall to meet the Third Prince¡¯s master, Lin Yue, to discuss their cooperative endeavors.
On the day of the meeting, Su Bin opted not to employ another substitute. Instead, an adept member of the Dragon Phoenix Hall, skilled in disguise, transformed Su Bin into the likeness of a middle-aged man. Prior to the encounter, Su Bin had diligently practiced altering his voice for over a month.
Upon their meeting, Lin Yue failed to recognize Su Bin as himself. This was primarily due to the presence of Su Bin¡¯s deputy, who assumed the lion¡¯s share of the conversation. Su Bin portrayed the role of an enigmatic, money-minded figure who seemed cold and indifferent.
In this coboration, the Dragon Phoenix Hall provided confidential information while the Third Prince contributed the necessary funds. Su Bin confidently conveyed to Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Considering the current trajectory, it¡¯s highly likely that the Third Prince will triumph over the Crown Prince and take his ce within three years.¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen harbored reservations about Su Bin¡¯s prediction. In line with the original book¡¯s plot, Chu Tiansheng couldn¡¯t ascend to the throne until he reached the age of 22. In another three years, Chu Tiansheng would merely be 18 years old, and it remained uncertain if he could muster the strength to reim his position.
Nheless, the plot had undergone a dramatic transformation.
In the original book, the protagonist had contended with an individual who had already assumed the throne, akin to usurping the throne itself. This posed significantly higher challenges.
Presently, their situation involved a crown prince who had yet to ascend to the throne. Discovering the Crown Prince¡¯s critical error could lead to his downfall and recement.
Su Bin¡¯s deration that this transformation would ur within three years didn¡¯t seem unwarranted.
Observing Su Bin¡¯s seriousness, Qin Zhenzhen inquired with a smile, ¡°Do you have any regrets about coborating with the Third Prince?¡±
Su Bin responded earnestly, ¡°I have no regrets.¡± Taken aback, Qin Zhenzhen questioned, ¡°Why not?¡±
¡°Three years may be short.¡±
Su Bin had unhesitatingly exposed the Dragon Phoenix Hall to deal with the Crown Prince. His primary objective was to aid the Third Prince in eliminating the Crown Prince and earning some money along the way.
However, when the Third Prince sessfully eliminated the Crown Prince and took his ce, it would be necessary to sever ties with the organization. Those in power wouldn¡¯t be keen on retaining an entity that specialized in gathering sensitive information and amassing wealth.
If they coborated with the Third Prince for six or seven years, they could rue greater wealth. Dissolving the organization would be the wiser choice.
Within just three years, their earnings would be limited.
Still, Su Bin responded with sincerity, ¡°Three years should suffice.¡±
¡°If possible, I hope to settle that wretched Crown Prince within a year or two.¡±
¡°As for money, it¡¯s a secondary concern.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen regarded Su Bin and inwardly sighed. The avaricious viin depicted in the original book had apparently undergone a transformation. He no longer coveted wealth.
It was often said that the world could change, but one¡¯s fundamental nature remained unaltered. Su Bin¡¯s newfound disinterest in money stemmed from his prioritization of her over material wealth.
It appeared that she was indeed a perfect match for Su Bin.
Su Bin continued, ¡°Furthermore, relying on a livelihood that puts your life at risk is not a sustainable path.¡±
¡°I n to invest all the money I earn in the next three years into acquiring farms,nd, and shops.¡±
¡°When the Third Prince firmly establishes his rule, we can gradually exit this perilous business.¡±
¡°At the very least, everyone associated with the pce will need to leave.¡±
¡°I will arrange for them to lead a normal life, tending to farms and managing shops.¡¯
¡°Of course, for those with valid alternate identities, there will be no need topletely disengage. They can simply suspend their activities..¡±
Chapter 381 - 381: The Bitter Third Prince
Chapter 381: The Bitter Third Prince
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The Third Prince had spent over a month in the care of the Flying Cloud Tribe, and his health had considerably improved. At the behest of the Emperor, arrangements were made to retrieve him and bring him back to the pce.
When reflecting on the Third Prince¡¯s early life, it was apparent that he had faced considerable challenges. His mother, Imperial Concubine Chen, had been the young mistress of the General¡¯s residence. During the Emperor¡¯s time as Crown Prince, she had held the position of secondary consort.
Upon the Emperor¡¯s ascension to the throne, the Crown Princess Consort became the Empress, and Imperial Concubine Chen was granted the title of
Noble Consort. However, unlike other alluring beauties, Imperial Concubine Chen had a more masculine and straightforward demeanor. She didn¡¯t employ subtle charms, and, in any case, she did not fit the Emperor¡¯s preferences.
Throughout her time in the pce, the Emperor had not favored her due to her connections with the General Manor. Nevertheless, after giving birth to the Third Prince, it seemed as though the Emperor regarded his duty as fulfilled and began to neglect her.
In a year, one could count the Emperor¡¯s visits to her on one hand, and even when he did visit, he often did not stay the night. Imperial Concubine Chen couldn¡¯t help but harbor resentment in her heart.
However, she dared not offend the formidable Emperor and could only vent her frustrations on the favored concubines. She relied on the General Manor¡¯s influence and her status as the mother of the Third Prince, which made her actions somewhat arrogant.
This behavior only fueled the Emperor¡¯s growing disfavor, and he had cautioned her repeatedly not to test his patience.
Meanwhile, the Empress watched Noble Consort Chen with a covetous eye. She was apprehensive about the General Manor¡¯s influence and concerned that the Third Prince might pose a threat to the Crown Prince¡¯s position as he grew older.
Taking advantage of an opportunity, the Empress sessfully poisoned the Third Prince and pinned the me on the favored concubine who had been tormented by Imperial Concubine Chen.
Although the Third Prince detected the poisoning early, it had already inflicted significant damage to his body. Even the pce physicians, in private discussions, expressed concerns that he might not survive to adulthood.
This distressing news naturally reached Imperial Concubine Chen, plunging her into deep sorrow as she believed she had harmed her own son. Watching her son¡¯s frail form and hearing his constant moans, Imperial Concubine Chen wished she could punish herself for her negligence. She also regretted her mistreatment of the young concubine.
Taking advantage of the situation, the Empress spread rumors throughout the pce, attributing Imperial Concubine Chen¡¯s misfortune to divine retribution.
Under the weight of self-me and sorrow, Imperial Concubine Chen¡¯s health deteriorated, providing the Empress with an opportunity to take her life.
This time, the Empress didn¡¯t need to resort to poison. By simply providing foods that countered the medicinal herbs, she could gradually debilitate
Imperial Concubine Chen¡¯s health, leaving no room for recovery.
The Empress executed her scheme with such precision that even if the General Manor harbored suspicions, they were unable to uncover the truth or hold the Empress ountable.
Furthermore, the Empress hailed from the powerful Public House, a family that held sway over the border military forces in South Vietnam. Their influence extended even to the military camps near the capital.
For the time being, the General Manor had no choice but to endure the situation. They desperately sought doctors and remedies, hoping that the Third Prince could recover.
By a stroke of luck, an esteemed monk in a temple imed to possess a method topletely purge the poison from the Third Prince¡¯s body. However, it required the Third Prince to reside in the temple for an extended period, as the process would take eight to ten years.
During this time, the Third Prince required a serene environment for his recovery.
Thus, he was ced in the monastery for his recuperation, an experience marked by considerable hardships.
The renowned monk¡¯s method for detoxifying the poison involved abination of medicinal treatment to restore his body¡¯s vitality and martial arts training under the guidance of his master. This unique approach aimed to expel the poison from his body through a blend of medicine and martial expertise..
Chapter 382 - 382: Missing Him A Little
Chapter 382: Missing Him A Little
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It was amon theme in stories that one could only rise above others through enduring hardships.
The Third Prince, who had been poisoned from a young age and then cultivated an unparalleled mystical technique in the face of adversity, followed the typical trajectory of many male protagonists in books.
In the book¡¯s plot, the Third Prince had been hunted down by his Eighth
Imperial Uncle, who had already ascended the throne, and they were on the brink of a deadly confrontation. Their only recourse was for the Third Prince to dethrone the Eighth Imperial Uncle if he wished to survive. Being the male lead, he was fated to be the emperor.
Now, the Third Prince was being relentlessly pursued by the Crown Prince. If he didn¡¯t seed on his first attempt, there would inevitably be subsequent attempts. The Crown Prince and the Third Prince were locked in a life-or-death struggle, and the Third Prince had to eliminate the Crown Prince to ensure his own survival.
Consequently, his destiny was intertwined with the throne.
Initially, those around him had sought to protect his life. However, as the poison within him could potentially be purged, their objectives evolved. If the General Manor wished to avenge histe mother, they would need to eliminate the Crown Prince and expose the Empress¡¯s cruel machinations.
The Crown Prince¡¯s relentless pursuit expedited their ns, and at this juncture, Su Bin extended an olive branch to both parties. Given that both sides had mutual interests, there was an opportunity for cooperation.
In the original book, the Third Prince was portrayed as possessing a strong moralpass, and he was far from being a malevolent character. The individuals surrounding him and his entire team were known for their decency, making it a wise choice for Su Bin to cooperate with them.
Qin Zhenzhen recognized that Su Bin¡¯s knowledge of the Third Prince and his team was likely moreprehensive. After careful consideration, she deemed cooperation with them to be a sensible course of action.
However, Su Bin viewed this path as fraught with danger, and he had already devised an exit strategy. He had even considered the worst-case scenario and was willing to forsake this immensely profitable opportunity. Taking down the Crown Prince as soon as possible held greater importance to him.
Ultimately, Su Bin¡¯s motivations were driven by his devotion to Qin Zhenzhen.
With these thoughts in mind, Qin Zhenzhen initiated a warm embrace with Su
Bin.
¡°Su Bin,¡± she softly uttered, surprised by her own gentleness.
Su Bin, equally touched by this unexpected tenderness, returned her embrace, holding her close. ¡°Wife, you are absolutely enchanting.¡±
Blushing, Qin Zhenzhen struggled to convey her feelings to Su Bin. She wondered whether she should express them through words or actions.
Observing her emotional state, Su Bin needed no further hints to understand her sentiments.
He was overjoyed.
As Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face grew increasingly flushed, Su Bin found himself desiring more.
Lowering his gaze to meet hers, he contemted kissing her but sensed that the atmosphere wasn¡¯t quite right. With a mischievous grin, he spoke, ¡°Wife, how about being a good girl and addressing me as ¡®husband!?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen modestly lowered her head, avoiding the intensity of Su Bin¡¯s gaze.
¡°Su Bin, don¡¯t push your luck.¡±
Feigning a sigh, Su Bin responded, ¡°Ah, we did agree to progress in our rtionship step by step. But I¡¯ve been neglecting my wife due to my studies.
We¡¯ve been at this for a while, and we¡¯ve only reached the third step.¡±
¡°Wife, do you hold that against me?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen yfully punched Su Bin¡¯s chest with her small fist. ¡°Who said I hold it against you?¡±
However, during Su Bin¡¯s absence at the prefectural school, where he couldn¡¯t be with her every day, she truly missed him..
Chapter 383 - 383: Could It Be That My Wife Is An Immortal TOO?
Chapter 383: Could It Be That My Wife Is An Immortal TOO?
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Su Bin eximed with joy, ¡°I¡¯m d you¡¯re not holding a grudge against me!¡±
¡°Wife, let¡¯s move on to the fourth step¡¡±
Su Bin wrapped one arm around Qin Zhenzhen and gently cupped her face with the other. Leaning in closer, he whispered.
Qin Zhenzhen watched as Su Bin¡¯s handsome face drew nearer and nervously called out, ¡°Husband!¡±
Su Bin paused, his eyes filled with surprise. ¡°Wife, what did you just say?¡±
¡°Never mind if you didn¡¯t hear it clearly.¡±
¡°Wife, say it again.¡±
¡°Husband!¡±
¡°Mmm, so obedient!¡±
Inwardly, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but think, ¡°This is so cheesy!¡±
But she seized the moment to speak up, ¡°This is the fourth step, you know.¡± Su Bin, realizing he had been yed, couldn¡¯t help but smile.
¡°Remember our previous agreement, the fourth step should be my decision.¡± Qin Zhenzhen grinned and replied, ¡°That¡¯s exactly what you decided!¡± ¡°You asked me to call you ¡®husband,¡¯ so I did.¡±
Su Bin attempted to divert the conversation. ¡°That doesn¡¯t count. Our rtionship needs to progress step by step, and it should involve actions.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen gave a yful smile. ¡°The fourth step I had in mind wasn¡¯t quite like that. I was trying to¡ª¡±
Su Bin wanted to convey his intentions through actions.
Qin Zhenzhen dismissed his words and yfully covered his mouth with her hand.
¡°Who says actions are the only thing that counts?¡±
¡°You¡¯re a schr; your word is your bond!¡±
¡°That¡¯s it for today.¡±
¡°It¡¯s gettingte; you should hurry back to the prefectural school.¡±
Su Bin no longer insisted on kissing her but instead suggested, ¡°I¡¯ll spend the night at home tonight and return to school tomorrow morning.¡±
She agreed, marking the end of the day, and tomorrow would bring a fresh start.
Tomorrow morning, they would take the fifth step, which, in their minds, involved a kiss.
Qin Zhenzhen expressed her surprise, ¡°But isn¡¯t there a preliminary examination at the prefectural school tomorrow morning?¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you nning to go back to the academy to rest?¡±
¡°Are you certain that staying home won¡¯t affect your performance in tomorrow¡¯s exam?¡±
Su Bin replied with confidence, ¡°Don¡¯t worry; the test is a breeze for me.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but smirk. ¡°Look at how self-assured you are. Aren¡¯t you concerned about your reputation taking a hit?¡±
Su Bin remained unwavering in his confidence. ¡°I¡¯m not being conceited; I have the skills.¡±
¡°Wife, just wait and see.¡±
With that settled, Su Bin nced at the clock. ¡°Wife, it¡¯s gettingte. Let¡¯s freshen up and get some rest!¡±
The following morning, Su Bin woke up and immediately embraced Qin
Zhenzhen.
¡°Wife, today is a new day, and we can take the fifth step.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen cautioned, ¡°Let¡¯s not rush things if the intervals are too short.¡±
¡°For the next month, I¡¯ll be devoted to my studies at the prefectural school. We¡¯ll have very few chances to meet. Let¡¯s consider this as taking the fifth step a little early.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen stopped him. ¡°You haven¡¯t even washed up yet.¡¯
¡°No matter what, it¡¯s your first time. We wouldn¡¯t want to create unpleasant memories, would we?¡±
Su Bin agreed and happily went to freshen up.
Before breakfast, Su Bin led Qin Zhenzhen into the room, and together they sessfullypleted the fifth step.
As he gazed at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s flushed cheeks and recalled her emotions from moments ago, Su Bin felt content.
He couldn¡¯t resist giving her another gentle kiss before parting.
As they separated, they held each other affectionately. Su Bin whispered into Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ear. ¡°Wife, you¡¯re so sweet!¡±
She teased, ¡°I wonder whose mouth is so sweet. It¡¯s like it¡¯s been dipped in honey. Quite effective at winning people over.¡±
But deep down, she seemed to enjoy it.
Su Bin chuckled. ¡°Is that so? Then I¡¯ll make sure to use this charm on you more often.
¡°Wife, you smell amazing!¡±
¡°It¡¯s the same fragrance as the Immortal Pill.¡±
¡°Could it be that you¡¯re an immortal too?¡±
Chapter 384 - 384: Little Success
Chapter 384: Little Sess
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t surprised at all. She was well aware that Su Bin had been suspicious of her, especially considering that she had specially modified the Immortal Pill. She also had a hunch that he might have detected something unusual in his food.
Su Bin himself had be aware of the subtle changes in his body. He had initially believed he was ill-suited for martial arts, yet in just one year of training, he had surpassed those who had trained for three years or more. This transformation wasn¡¯t due to his diligence but rather a profound change in his body.
What was once the physique of a frail schr, unsuitable for martial arts, had now evolved into that of a martial arts prodigy. Besides learning from his two secret guards, he had also received guidance from Qin Zhenzhen. After a year, he could hold his own against his secret guards inbat, and facing ordinary adversaries posed no challenge. Running away was thest thing on his mind.
In addition to these physical changes, Su Bin felt his mind sharpening. His memory, which was previously ordinary, now resembled a photographic memory.
He had once been confident in his abilities, convinced he could secure a prominent ce on the Capital Examination Board. Now, his self-assurance had reached new heights.
Finally letting go of Qin Zhenzhen, Su Bin said, ¡°Wife, I¡¯m heading back to the residence to study.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen encouraged him, ¡°Yes, study diligently and aim for outstanding results. ¡±
Su Bin reassured her, ¡°Wife, rest assured and await good news.¡±
As he walked towards the entrance, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t resist saying, ¡°I¡¯ll send you some food in a few days.¡±
Su Bin whispered, ¡°I know. I¡¯ll miss my wife, even in my dreams.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen blushed once again. ¡°Stop with the nonsense. There are so many people around. Aren¡¯t you embarrassed? I¡¯m embarrassed.¡±
¡°I¡¯m speaking so softly that no one can hear me. And even if they did, it¡¯spletely normal. ¡±
Recognizing that the couple wanted to have a private conversation, Su Ning and the servants wisely kept their distance.
Su Ning even had a secretive smile on her face as she observed her third brother and third sister-inw in this affectionate state.
Whenever Third Elder Brother and Third Elder Sister-inw were together, they would both blush. Third Elder Brother would look at Third Elder Sister-inw with such longing in his eyes.
It was evident that they had be a real couple.
Hehe, it looked like their family was going to experience double happiness!
The first cause for celebration was Third Brother¡¯s participation in the uing Capital Examination in the spring. He was destined to achieve a top-ranking position.
The second source of joy was the possibility that Third Sister-inw might be pregnant now, which would make her an aunt next year.
Su Ning¡¯s words carried a double meaning. ¡°Third Brother, best of luck!¡±
Su Bin responded with a dual interpretation. ¡°Yes, Third Brother will certainly give his all!¡±
While others might consider the bridal chamber as a small test, Su Bin regarded it as the pinnacle.
In his view, he needed to see things from a different perspective.
To him, the bridal chamber was the ultimate!
Qin Zhenzhen had no doubts that Su Bin would excel. The original text mentioned that the Eighth Imperial Uncle had sessfully seized the throne through inheritance, and theposition of the civil and military officials had remainedrgely unchanged.
In other words, the same group of schrs who had devised the examination questions in the original text were likely responsible for them now. Even if the questions were not identical to those in the original text, they would likely bear striking simrities.
Given Su Bin¡¯s current abilities, achieving first ce was well within his reach.
However, she couldn¡¯t be certain whether he would be chosen as the top scorer in the pce examination.
In the original book, the storyline was that the Eighth Imperial Uncle had taken a fancy to Su Bin.
But now the current emperor¡..
It was impossible for the current emperor and the Eighth Imperial Uncle to have the same taste.
However, in the original book, Su Bin was sinister and scheming, which suited the Eighth Imperial Uncle.
Although the current Su Bin was also scheming, his personality was no longer gloomy and vicious. Instead, he could be called a bright young man. It would not be strange for such a talent to catch the Emperor¡¯s eye..
Chapter 385 - 385: A Little Unfair
Chapter 385: A Little Unfair
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ning wasted no time in sharing the secret she had uncovered with Qin
Zhenzhen.
¡°Third Sister-inw, I¡¯ve confirmed that Sister Shanshan¡¯s sweetheart is your fourth brother.¡¯
¡°I had originally intended to uncover her secret, but she actually chose to reveal it to me intentionally.¡±
¡°Sister Shanshan is quite clever. She understands that I would undoubtedly inform you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was mentally prepared, so she didn¡¯t find it surprising.
Su Bin had sharp instincts. Even she couldn¡¯t always discern what was going on in Chen Shanshan¡¯s mind, but he had a strong conviction.
¡°Third Sister-inw, you are aware that your fourth brother has feelings for Sister Shanshan, right?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not entirely certain yet. I¡¯ll need to ask him.¡±
¡°Thus, it¡¯s crucial that you don¡¯t let anyone else in on this, understood?¡± This matter directly pertained to Chen Shanshan¡¯s reputation.
In ancient times, a woman openly dering her affection for a man was considered scandalous.
If her fourth brother didn¡¯t reciprocate those feelings for Chen Shanshan, this matter should remain confidential.
Su Ning nodded firmly. ¡°I understand. Third Sister-inw, you can trust me. I won¡¯t breathe a word of it to anyone.¡±
¡°Even Third Brother won¡¯t hear about it from me.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle inwardly. ¡°Your third brother has known about it for a while now.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chose not to inform her parents about Chen Shanshan¡¯s initial affection for Qin Silong. She believed that the key factor in this matter was her fourth brother¡¯s stance.
If her fourth brother didn¡¯t share simr feelings toward Chen Shanshan and had no intentions of marrying her, then her parents need not be informed. Qin Zhenzhen would do her best to console Chen Shanshan and help her move on quickly. She trusted that Chen Shanshan¡¯s straightforward nature would prevent her from pursuing her fourth brother persistently.
Should her fourth brother reciprocate Chen Shanshan¡¯s affections, there would still be ample time to disclose the matter to her parents.
Qin Zhenzhen dispatched her letter to Qin Silong through the Dragon Phoenix Hall, and it soon found its way into his hands.
Upon reading the letter, Qin Silong remained in a daze for quite some time before regaining hisposure.
He was known for his bravery and straightforwardness. Throughout his time with Chen Shanshan, he had regarded her as a close friend due to her own frankness. He had never anticipated that Chen Shanshan harbored romantic feelings for him.
Truthfully, he and Chen Shanshan had never experienced that kind of attraction toward each other, and the thought of marrying her had never crossed his mind.
However, he had never formed romantic connections with other women.
Now, he suddenly discovered that Chen Shanshan had feelings for him and had turned down other marriage proposals because of him.
Chen Shanshan hadn¡¯t kept this revtion to herself; she had wisely shared the secret with his younger sister.
She was waiting for his response.
Chen Shanshan possessed a forthright and decisive personality, unafraid to express her affections and dislikes openly. Her bold and assertive nature was something he actually admired.
Yet, he also realized that he was seeking a life partner, not forming a brotherly bond.
For an entire day and night, Qin Silong pondered this situation. Eventually, he came to the conclusion that marrying Chen Shanshan was eptable.
At the very least, he didn¡¯t harbor any aversion towards her. Their marriage wouldn¡¯t be rooted in mutual resentment.
Chen Shanshan¡¯s parents were easy to get along with, and Uncle Chen had even provided assistance to their family in the past.
Qin Silong picked up a pen and penned a response to Qin Zhenzhen.
In his letter, he conveyed his willingness to marry Chen Shanshan.
As he read his message repeatedly, a feeling of unease began to gnaw at him.
He couldn¡¯t help but wonder if this decision was fair to Chen Shanshan. She held such deep affection for him, and he didn¡¯t feelpelled to marry her.
He worried that he might not be able to reciprocate her feelings to the same extent..
Chapter 386 - 386: This Is Also A Love
Chapter 386: This Is Also A Love
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Chen Silong crumpled the letter he had initially penned and decided to rewrite it.
His intention was to confide in his fifth sister about his genuine feelings and concerns, seeking her guidance.
In his current situation, if he were to marry Chen Shanshan but couldn¡¯t reciprocate her affection to the same extent, would it be unjust to her?
He wanted his fifth sister to ry this situation to Chen Shanshan. If Chen Shanshan didn¡¯t mind, he wouldn¡¯t carry a heavy emotional burden.
Yet, as he rephrased the letter, he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that it wasn¡¯t the right approach.
Truthfully informing Chen Shanshan through his fifth sister that he didn¡¯t harbor strong romantic feelings for her, but was willing to marry her, might cause her considerable pain. It could even be seen as an insult.
Qin Silong discarded the letter he had just rewritten, feeling that it might be better to decline Chen Shanshan¡¯s proposal.
Reflecting on his previous life, he had spent three years in a military camp, with only a single opportunity to return home during that time.
Currently, not even a year had passed since he returned home, and based on prior circumstances, it would be more than two years before he could visit again.
In two years, Chen Shanshan would be neen. Even if he were to marry her upon his next visit home, he would soon depart for the military camp, leaving her alone.
Furthermore, he couldn¡¯t foresee what might transpire when he returned to the military camp. His previous life¡¯s experiences concluded two years after his visit home, so he couldn¡¯t predict what would happen next. If he were to return to the military camp and meet an unfortunate fate on the battlefield, wouldn¡¯t that leave Chen Shanshan as a young widow?
Chen Shanshan was a genuinely kind-hearted girl, and Qin Silong felt a deep responsibility not to harm her.
So, Qin Silongposed a third letter, expressing his thoughts to Qin Zhenzhen with tact and care.
Unbeknownst to him, this letter actually ced a great deal of importance on Chen Shanshan. He was refusing her because he didn¡¯t want to inflict pain on her, which, in reality, was a sign of his affection. It¡¯s just that he hadn¡¯t recognized it as a form of love.
As Qin Silong sealed the letter, he was on the verge of sending it when a pang of disappointment suddenly swept over him. Once this letter was dispatched, there would be no turning back.
Thoughts of Chen Shanshan resurfaced in his mind. He anticipated her sadness resulting from his rejection and the potential awkwardness they might face in future encounters. There was a possibility that they would cease all interactions, even if they met face to face, possibly turning away from each other.
He didn¡¯t want his rtionship with Chen Shanshan to deteriorate in this way.
Moreover, he contemted the image of Chen Shanshan marrying someone else and realized he felt a hint of bitterness.
Qin Silong hesitated, tightly gripping the sealed letter. He questioned himself once more.
Did he genuinelyck feelings for Chen Shanshan?
If he truly felt nothing, why was he preupied with her?
Why did he experience disappointment after writing the rejection letter?
Why did the thought of her marrying another man evoke a sense of bitterness within him?
Finally, Qin Silong pped the back of his head in realization.
He had been aplete fool!
He had erroneously assumed that he wasn¡¯t drawn to Chen Shanshan, but that was far from the truth.
It wasn¡¯t that hecked feelings; rather, he had been entirely oblivious to the notion of love. His focus had solely revolved around honing his martial arts skills and establishing himself in the military camp. Love hadn¡¯t factored into his mindset.
Even if a peerless beauty was in front of him, he might ignore her.
It was really strange. When he suspected that he might like Chen Shanshan, some details of his interaction with Chen Shanshan yed in his mind.
Every scene was worth reminiscing about..
Chapter 387 - 387: Ancient Military Service
Chapter 387: Ancient Military Service
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Recollections of past moments flooded Qin Silong¡¯s mind, like the time Chen Shanshan had yfully stuffed a meat bun into his mouth or when she had wiped the sweat from his forehead with a handkerchief.
Once again, Qin Silong gave himself a resounding p on the back of his head.
What a fool he had been!
He hadn¡¯t rejected her actions back then; in fact, he had weed them. His acquiescence had been a silent agreement, an unspoken affirmation of her actions.
He hadn¡¯t just refrained from rejecting or disliking her; he had genuinely appreciated her personality.
That should be enough.
To hesitate when offered the opportunity to marry such a woman was not in line with the demeanor of a seasoned military expert who had lived through two lifetimes.
With newfound rity, Qin Silongposed a fourth letter.
In it, he informed Qin Zhenzhen that he was willing to marry Chen Shanshan. He acknowledged that it might be several years before he could return home and that his military service would continue. Furthermore, the battlefield was unforgiving, and he couldn¡¯t guarantee his safety.
He implored his fifth sister to ry this information to Chen Shanshan, giving her the chance to reconsider her choice. If Chen Shanshan stood by her decision, he would not disappoint her. He vowed to strive for a long, prosperous life, dedicating himself to her.
In addition, he pledged to achieve great sess in the military camp for her. When the time was right, he would request his parents to propose marriage to the Chen family on his behalf.
The decision was made: marriage first. Two yearster, he would seek the opportunity to return home and marry her.
Ordinary recruits were subject to a strict military rule: they were not permitted to return home to visit their rtives for a period of three years after entering the military camp. This rule remained in effect even if their family members passed away.
Promotion and recognition were the only avenues for rxation from this rigid constraint. A new recruit had to distinguish themselves and ascend to at least the rank of a chiliarch before they could apply for a chance to return home.
This promotion signified a grand return to their hometown in glory.
In Qin Silong¡¯s previous life, as he was on the verge of being promoted to the rank of chiliarch, he had returned to his countryside home, expecting a triumphant homing. Instead, his soul had unexpectedly been transported back to his hometown.
In this lifetime, he was determined to avoid such a tragic twist.
Qin Silong was confident that he would rise to the rank of chiliarch within three years, perhaps even surpassing that to attain a higher official position. That said, the ancient military service system was harsh and unforgiving.
Regr soldiers weren¡¯t eligible to apply for permission to visit their hometowns within the first three years of service. However, after that initial period, a selection process ensued, allowing weak and disabled soldiers to be discharged from the army. They receivedpensation and returned to their ordinary lives.
Healthy soldiers withbat experience remained in the military camp to protect the nation. They were only allowed to return home once they were no longer young and strong, typically after ten to twenty years.
Upon their entry to the military camp, these soldiers were usually around 15 to 16 years old. By the time they were released, they ranged from 35 to 40 years of age. The prime years of their lives were spent in service, devoid of marriage, children, or the ability to care for their parents.
However, those who endured two decades of military service, even without remarkable aplishments or official titles, could amass considerable savings. Upon their discharge, they could atst enter into the joys of marriage, parenthood, and a return to civilian life.
In the military camp, their sustenance and lodging were provided, and they received monthly wages. Some chose to save their earnings themselves, but this method was fraught with uncertainty. Saving money in the military camp posed risks: if they met their end on the battlefield, their hard-earned savings could end up in someone else¡¯s possession when their belongings were sorted. It would all be in vain.
Alternatively, some soldiers sent their earnings back home, entrusting their families with the task of safeguarding the funds. However, even this approach wasn¡¯t without its drawbacks. Many individuals couldn¡¯t feasibly reach their families, no matter how much money they sent, due to the vast distances involved..
Chapter 388 - 388: Becoming a Matchmaker
Chapter 388: Bing a Matchmaker
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the military camp, a significant number of individuals chose to spend their earnings as they received them. This decision stemmed from the stark reality that, within the military camp, one never knew when they might be deployed to the battlefield, facing the possibility of never returning.
In such an unpredictable environment, the thought of saving money for a future that might nevere seemed futile. Instead, many believed that it was essential to seize the moment and ensure they had no regrets in this world.
Within the military camp, the mostmon expenditure was on military prostitutes.
Upon receiving the reply, Qin Zhenzhen read it and couldn¡¯t help but smile.
Her fourth brother, while possessing a rugged demeanor, exhibited meticulous thoughtfulness within that rough exterior. He understood that his future held great promise, with no doubt about achieving the rank of chiliarch and even aspiring to be a general.
Once he reached that status, numerous youngdies from wealthy families would vie for his hand in marriage.
Initially, Qin Zhenzhen had suspected that her fourth brother might not have any romantic feelings for Chen Shanshan. Her observations of their interactions had led her to believe that her fourth brother didn¡¯t harbor such sentiments for her. Additionally, Chen Shanshan hailed from a modest background and was of average appearance.
However, she hadn¡¯t anticipated that her fourth brother would express his willingness to marry Chen Shanshan. Moreover, he was genuinely concerned about her well-being if anything were to befall him.
This level of consideration demonstrated the effort and thought her fourth brother had invested in Chen Shanshan.
Qin Zhenzhen discreetly sought out Chen Shanshan and conveyed her fourth brother¡¯s intentions.
¡°My fourth brother has already responded. Initially, he hesitated to entertain such thoughts because he feared disappointing you, which is why he didn¡¯t mention it,¡± Qin Zhenzhen exined.
¡°He expressed that those who enter the military camp have little say in their lives; their existence belongs to the country, not themselves,¡± she continued. ¡°It¡¯s uncertain when they might sacrifice their lives for their nation. But after learning of your feelings, he desired to spend time with you, and only then did he realize your importance in his life.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen emphasized, ¡°My fourth brother wishes for you to carefully contemte this decision.¡±
Chen Shanshan responded resolutely, ¡°I¡¯ve thought it through. I understand Brother Silong¡¯ concerns, but I believe he is favored by the heavens, and he will surely return safely. I¡¯ll never regret my decision! ¡±
Although Chen Shanshan¡¯s face reddened with shyness, her response was straightforward. She was neither bashful nor hesitant. Her affection for Qin Silong and her willingness to marry him were born of careful consideration, not mere impulsivity.
Chen Shanshan had already considered the very worries that gued Qin
Silong. Nevertheless, human emotions often worked in strange ways,pelling individuals in love to disregard all else.
Observing Chen Shanshan, Qin Zhenzhen smiled approvingly. The more she thought about it, the more convinced she became that Chen Shanshan was well-suited to be her fourth sister-inw.
Qin Zhenzhen had always admired Chen Shanshan¡¯s personality, and there was no need to mention the good conduct of Chen Shanshan¡¯s parents. Moreover,
Chen Shanshan was her disciple and a crucial member of her distribution team.
If Chen Shanshan were to be part of the Qin family, Qin Zhenzhen would feel more confident entrusting essential matters to her.
However, this decision required the approval of her parents.
¡°Have you discussed this with your parents?¡± Qin Zhenzhen inquired.
Chen Shanshan blushed and nodded. ¡°Yeah.¡±
¡°They didn¡¯t object. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have agreed. I¡¯ve never been engaged.¡±
¡°They even talked about finding a matchmaker to propose marriage.¡±
¡°I stopped them.¡±
¡°What if Brother Silong is unwilling to marry me and your parents agree? That would be equivalent to harming myself and Brother Silong..¡±
Chapter 389 - 389: Fourth Sister-in-law
Chapter 389: Fourth Sister-inw
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen regarded Chen Shanshan with a serious expression. ¡°I didn¡¯t anticipate you¡¯d be so thoughtful.¡±
In ancient times, marriages were typically arranged by parents, making it umon for individuals to prioritize love when considering a life partner. Chen Shanshan¡¯s perspective on their rtionship was a rarity, as she wanted to ensure that neither she nor the person she loved would be wronged.
Such rationality was a precious quality, especially for women in ancient times. A woman with such an open and rational mindset promised a harmonious and enjoyable future together.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but remark, ¡°I initially intended to discuss this matter with you myself, but I was feeling a bit hesitant. I worried that my family¡¯s background might not be on par with yours, and I also had concerns about whether I was deserving of Silong.¡±
Coming from an ordinary family while the Qin family held substantial wealth as prominent merchants, Qin Zhenzhen was actually the Marquis Mansion¡¯s prince consort. Qin Silong had already attained the rank of chiliarch, and his future prospects seemed boundless.
Chen Shanshan rified that her feelings for Qin Silong predated his military service. Her sentiments were not a result of his status as a chiliarch; rather, she had harbored these feelings for him prior to his departure.
She had subtly hinted at her affections in the past, but unfortunately, Qin Silong had not interpreted her intentions in that manner. It was likely that he regarded her as a dear friend.
Understanding his perspective, Chen Shanshan had initially abandoned the idea of pursuing a romantic rtionship. Otherwise, given her straightforward personality, she might have directly confessed her feelings to Qin Silong.
However, as time passed and Qin Silong departed for the military camp, Chen Shanshan discovered that her love for him ran deep, to the point that she couldn¡¯t envision marrying anyone else. She regretted not having confessed her feelings to Qin Silong earlier.
Now that she had taken the initiative to address the matter, Chen Shanshan worried that people might misconstrue her intentions. They might assume she wanted to marry Qin Silong solely because of his promotion. This concern made her feel somewhat embarrassed.
Qin Zhenzhen, however,ughed heartily and reassured her. ¡°How can you ever be unworthy of my fourth brother? To be honest, it¡¯s his good fortune to marry a cheerful and straightforward woman like you. It¡¯s as if he¡¯s benefiting from his past life¡¯s karma.¡±
Hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words, Chen Shanshan¡¯s embarrassment subsided, and she regained her confidence. She replied confidently, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid at all.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen then asked about Chen Shanshan¡¯s approach to revealing this to Su Ning. She wondered if Chen Shanshan was concerned about Su Ning spreading the news to others.
Knowing Su Ning¡¯s character well, Chen Shanshan responded proudly, ¡°I know that Su Ning won¡¯t divulge this to anyone else. She¡¯ll keep it a secret, just like you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen yfully teased her, ¡°Then I¡¯ll address you as Fourth
Sister-inw from now on?¡±
Chen Shanshan waved her hand quickly, dismissing the idea. ¡°It¡¯s too early for that. At least¡ after the engagement!¡±
¡°Huh?¡±
The idea that she could be called Fourth Sister-inw after the engagement seemed to imply that she was already being considered a part of the family.
Qin Zhenzhen then jokingly continued, ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll promptly inform my parents about this and suggest they select a propitious day to send a matchmaker to your home for a formal proposal.¡±
Chen Shanshan readily agreed, saying, ¡°Alright.¡±
For her, once the engagement took ce, people in the neighborhood would stop gossiping about her being unmarried at her age. Although she understood that Qin Silong might not be able to return and marry her for another two to three years, she was more than willing to wait.
This period of waiting also provided an opportunity for her to learn from Qin
Zhenzhen.
Chen Shanshan was determined to dedicate herself to studying diligently. Her goal was to acquire even a fraction of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s skills, and that would already be a significant aplishment.
She recognized the importance of bing a capable woman, feeling that this was the only way she could truly deserve Qin Silong.
Even if she were to marry a government official in the future, she had no intention of confining herself to the household and living a life of luxury. Chen Shanshan aspired to lead a fulfilling life, much like the one Qin Zhenzhen enjoyed..
Chapter 390 - 390: Marriage Proposal
Chapter 390: Marriage Proposal
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen excitedly shared the news of Fourth Brother and Chen Shanshan with her parents and grandmother. The atmosphere in the room was filled with joy as they decided on a suitable day to send a matchmaker to the Chen family to propose marriage.
Chen Youwei and his wife had been well aware of their daughter¡¯s affection for Qin Silong for quite some time. The parents on both sides wasted no time in earnestly discussing and finalizing the marriage arrangements.
Mrs. Yang, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mother, had a favorable impression of Chen Shanshan. Her four sons were known for their robust and straightforward nature, devoid of any hidden agendas. Although they had been a bit overbearing and unreasonable in the past, they had matured considerably over the past year. All in all, Mrs. Yang firmly believed that her son was a decent and honest person without any ulterior motives. Therefore, she hoped that her future daughter-inw would also be straightforward and sincere¡ªqualities she found in Chen Shanshan.
As Mrs. Yang contemted her son¡¯s likely absence from home for the next two or three years, she felt a deep sense of gratitude towards Chen Shanshan. This sentiment tranted into more generous betrothal gifts for her. To avoid any potential discord, Mrs. Yang took the time to exin the changes in their family¡¯s circumstances to her two daughters-inw.
¡°Our family has undergone some changes recently. In the past, we were content and never went without. But now, we can rightfully say we are well-off. I owe this to your grandmother and sister, and I¡¯m also grateful for the generosity of Young Master.¡±
Despite Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s marriage into the Su family, she had made it clear that not all the ie she generated from her business endeavors belonged to the Su family. She and Su Bin maintained a cooperative partnership.
If Qin Zhenzhen made a contribution, Su Bin would readily cover the expenses.
After deducting the initial investment, they would evenly divide the profits they earned. Naturally, half of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s share would be allocated to the Qin family, a decision that Su Bin fully supported.
In his view, his rtionship with Qin Zhenzhen was paramount. He had already made up his mind that her money was his money. Moreover, the Dragon Phoenix Hall, which he operated, was expected to generate significant ie, mirroring his wife¡¯s sessful business. Yet, he foresaw that her venture would have enduring prosperity, whereas his enterprise would grow over time, leading to increased profits.
Recognizing the rtive risks associated with the Dragon Phoenix Hall¡¯s business, Su Bin
had already nned to disband it once all matters were settled. This would allow the core members to return to their normal lives. If he were to pursue an official position, he was determined to prioritize his wife¡¯s desires. The family¡¯s financial prosperity relied heavily on her business acumen.
He noted that Qin Zhenzhen had acquired her skills from his grandmother, and her willingness to contribute to the Qin family was only natural. Su Bin had no objections to this arrangement; he was far from miserly and felt content with having such a loving wife.
Mrs. Yang was greatly pleased by Su Bin¡¯s generosity and went on to exin further, addressing her sons and their wives. ¡°I want to rify this because I hope that when Third Brother and Fourth Brother marry, the betrothal gifts will be more generous than what Eldest Brother and Second Brother received. Back then, we had fewer resources, but now our family is flourishing.¡±
Qin Dalong and Qin Erlong chuckled warmly and assured her, ¡°Mother, there¡¯s no need to worry. We won¡¯t have any objections.¡±
Their wives joined in, echoing simr sentiments. ¡°Mother, please don¡¯t concern yourself with this. We have more than enough to livefortably. We assist in your sister¡¯s workshop, and she generously provides us with monthly allowances.¡±
¡°We¡¯ve had it easy, and our sister¡¯s kindness has been overwhelming. Mother, you don¡¯t need to rely on us to cover the family¡¯s expenses. It¡¯s all thanks to our grandmother and sister, as well as our sister¡¯s marriage to such a wonderful husband, that we enjoy this wonderful life..¡±
Chapter 391 - 391: Third Brother’s Eyes Are High
Chapter 391: Third Brother¡¯s Eyes Are High
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Sister, Brother-inw, and Mother are all incredibly generous. We shouldn¡¯t be petty,¡± remarked one of the daughters-inw, echoing the sentiments of the others.
Mrs. Yang looked upon the daughters-inw of her eldest and second sons with satisfaction. ¡°As long as you¡¯refortable with it, then it¡¯s settled. The betrothal gifts for the third and fourth sons will be even more generous than yours.¡±
Qin Dalong nodded in agreement. ¡°Mother, that¡¯s absolutely the right approach. ¡±
In ancient times, thepatibility of families was a significant consideration.
When their own family was financially modest, so were their potential inws.
The size of the dowry often hinged on the generosity of the betrothal gifts.
However, their family¡¯s newfound prosperity had elevated their social status. For instance, Chen Youwei¡¯s family possessed a house and a shop in the prefectural city. He also served as the governor¡¯s advisor, earning a sry from the imperial court. Though not extravagantly wealthy, they were considered affluent in the city. His daughter, Chen Shanshan, was a well-mannered and cultured youngdy, significantly different from a rural, uneducated girl. Naturally, her dowry would surpass that of ordinary families, resulting in more generous betrothal gifts.
Mrs. Yang was confident that her sons understood this societal hierarchy, yet she shared these details primarily to ensure that their wives feltfortable with the arrangements. Her maternal consideration and thoughtfulness were well-known among her family, which also contributed to the strong bond between her and her daughters-inw.
Relieved by the understanding of her sons and daughters-inw, Ms. Yang turned her attention to Qin Sanlong. ¡°Third, since Fourth is already engaged, it¡¯s time for you to expedite your own marriage. Don¡¯t be overly selective.¡±
Qin Sanlong, now 22 years old, had long reached the age where marriage was expected. Back when he was working as a butcher, Mrs. Yang had tried to arrange a marriage for him. However, at that time, he had set rather high standards for his future wife and made his preferences clear to his parents: ¡°My future wife must truly capture my heart. I need to see her and feel that connection before I can settle down.¡±
Mrs. Yang and Qin Shan had followed his wishes and introduced him to several girls from the neighboring vige, conveniently close to their home. Secret visits were not difficult to arrange. The matchmaker presented three potential matches to him, but none of them met his approval. It seemed he was quite particr.
Both Mrs. Yang and Qin Shan were puzzled about how to handle his demands, and even the matchmaker couldn¡¯t resist a mockingment. ¡°Are you expecting to marry a heavenly fairy? Take a good look at yourself!¡± However, Qin Sanlong remained steadfast in his refusal topromise.
He exined to his parents, ¡°It¡¯s not that my requirements are exceedingly high; I simply believe that when I meet the right person, I¡¯ll know it instantly. I think my destiny with my future wife hasn¡¯t arrived yet, so I don¡¯t wish to rush into an engagement.¡± At the time, he was still rtively young, and his mother and father respected his decision.
He refused to let the matchmaker continue the search for him. It was only when the family moved to the prefectural city that Mrs. Yang and Qin Shan decided to make another attempt at finding a suitable matchmaker for him.
Yet, once again, none of the candidates met Qin Sanlong¡¯s criteria.
During a moment of frustration, Mrs. Yang scolded him, saying, ¡°Don¡¯t let our newfound wealth make you arrogant!¡±
Feeling unjustly used, Qin Sanlong defended himself, saying, ¡°How am I being arrogant?¡±
¡°I¡¯ve mentioned it before, but it seems you still don¡¯t believe me!¡± Qin Sanlongmented. ¡°Here¡¯s what I propose: you don¡¯t need to worry about my marriage. I¡¯d like to let fate run its course. Perhaps our destined moment will arrive one day.¡±
Mrs. Yang wasn¡¯t ready to concede.. ¡°You think you can find a wife without a matchmaker? Is there such a convenient solution in this world?¡±
Chapter 392 - 392: Teaching Experience
Chapter 392: Teaching Experience
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Mrs. Yang didn¡¯t necessarily agree with Qin Sanlong¡¯s approach, but she was unwilling topel her son to choose a girl he didn¡¯t genuinely like.
Later on, Qin Sanlong enlisted Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s help to persuade his parents. She chimed in, saying, ¡°Third Brother is still quite young. Let him enjoy his life without any burdens. Maybe he¡¯s already found his soulmate. Finding one¡¯s own spouse is quitemon in the modern era, even if it appears unconventional in ancient times. In the past, most individuals, both men and women, had little say in their marriages, and that was a source of sorrow for many.¡±
Out of empathy for her third brother, Qin Zhenzhen decided to support his choice.
Mrs. Yang and Qin Shan chose not to pressure Qin Sanlong any further, but the fact that even Fourth Brother was now engaged left them concerned about how he might be perceived.
Qin Sanlong understood his mother¡¯s worries, but he remained patient. Mrs. Yang reminded him once again, ¡°If you continue to be so selective, you¡¯ll be married when you¡¯re married, but don¡¯t you feel ashamed for not settling down sooner?¡±
Qin Sanlong smiled and proposed apromise, ¡°Well, even though Fourth Brother is engaged, he won¡¯t be returning to marry for another two years. So, technically, I still have two years. If, by that time, I haven¡¯t found someone I feel destined to be with, I¡¯ll heed my parents¡¯ wishes, okay?¡±
Mrs. Yang shook her head firmly. ¡°No!¡± This time, her stance was resolute.
¡°Your father and I have had a thorough discussion about this, and we can¡¯t postpone it any further!¡± Mrs. Yang dered with determination. ¡°You¡¯ve even written down your requirements on paper: appearance, family background, personality, and age. I¡¯ll take these requests to the matchmaker, and you¡¯ll find a suitable match more quickly that way.¡±
Qin Sanlong was caught betweenughter and frustration. ¡°Mother, I¡¯ve repeatedly emphasized that my requirements are truly not extravagant! I haven¡¯t asked for youth or beauty, social status, or a specific personality. I simply want a good rapport andpatibility. I can¡¯t put that into a request! ¡±
Mrs. Yang¡¯s frustration red, and she reached for a feather duster as if to strike him. ¡°How dare you im your expectations aren¡¯t high?¡±
Quickly seeking refuge behind his older brother, Qin Sanlong implored,
¡°Mother, please don¡¯t act rashly. It¡¯s not right to resort to violence.¡±
Mrs. Yang hadn¡¯t genuinely intended to harm her son, so she halted, pointing the feather duster at Qin Sanlong while continuing her scolding.
¡°You¡¯ve met no less than ten youngdies before, and not one of them has met your standards! Are you sure you¡¯re not just making excuses? These girls are all unique in their own ways and aren¡¯t unattractive. Theye from well-rounded backgrounds. Why can¡¯t you find one you like? It¡¯s as if you don¡¯t wish to get married at all! You¡¯re showing no sense of responsibility; you¡¯re afraid of shouldering the responsibilities of a husband after marriage!¡±
She grew increasingly animated in her criticism. ¡°You¡¯re not even considering your duty to your parents! We worry about you daily, and you don¡¯t seem to take it seriously.¡±
Mrs. Yang¡¯s rant left Qin Sanlong momentarily stunned by the barrage of words.
He couldn¡¯t help but wonder why his mother was so insistent on this matter when he simply didn¡¯t want to rush into marriage. Qin Dalong, noticing the tense situation, intervened by pulling his third brother out from behind their mother and offering some advice.
¡°Third Brother,¡± he began in a calm tone, ¡°just look at how upset Mother is. It¡¯s just finding a wife. Is it really thatplicated? Eldest Brother and Second Brother had to rely on our parents to arrange their marriages, but you¡¯re being so particr.¡±
As Qin Dalong spoke, he discreetly moved his third brother aside and whispered, ¡°Don¡¯t be stubborn, Third Brother.. Just because you didn¡¯t feel an immediate attraction to a girl doesn¡¯t mean you won¡¯t be drawn to her in the future!¡±
Chapter 393 - 393: Love at First Sight Is a Very Special Situation
Chapter 393: Love at First Sight Is a Very Special Situation
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Sanlong was taken aback by his big brother¡¯s assertion. ¡°Big Brother, are you being serious?¡±
He had tried his best to size up the girl at first nce but felt no stirring of emotion. He looked at her a second time, then a third, and no matter how many times he looked, she seemed just the same as she did initially.
Qin Dalong confidently patted his own chest. ¡°When have I ever lied to you? Trust me, I know what I¡¯m talking about.¡±
He continued, ¡°I understand the feeling you¡¯re describing. It¡¯s when you see someone and you¡¯re instantly filled with excitement, your heart races, and you can¡¯t help but think about cherishing and protecting them for the rest of your life. You believe you¡¯d only marry someone like that, right?¡±
Qin Sanlong nodded vigorously. ¡°Exactly! That¡¯s what they call ¡®liking someone.¡¯ If you marry someone you truly like, you¡¯d be willing to go to great lengths to ensure a happy life together.¡±
Qin Dalong had a contented look on his face. ¡°That¡¯s precisely how I feel about your Sister-inw.¡±
Qin Sanlong was genuinely surprised by his brother¡¯s confession. He wondered if his observation skills werecking or if his understanding of rtionships was wed. He had never noticed any affectionate exchanges between his brother and sister-inw. Their interactions seemed as calm as a still pond, devoid of ripples. They appeared more likepanions than deeply in love.
However, his Big Brother¡¯s sincerity was unquestionable. There was no reason for him to deceive Qin Sanlong. He chuckled to himself, thinking he had underestimated his brother, believing him to be clueless about matters of the heart. Little did he know that his brother possessed such profound insight.
Drawing from his own experiences, Qin Dalong imparted some wisdom to his younger brother:
¡°Let me share something with you,¡± Qin Dalong began earnestly. ¡°When I firstid eyes on your Sister-inw, I didn¡¯t experience the blushing or racing heartbeat you mentioned. I thought she was quite ordinary. But, as time went on, my feelings slowly evolved.¡±
¡°When we first got engaged, I wasn¡¯t particrly eager to see her, but after we married, I found myself wanting to be with her all the time. I¡¯d get excited when I saw her, and my heart would beat faster.¡±
Qin Silong nced at his big brother. In the past, he might have dismissed his words as typical male behavior, driven by primal instincts, devoid of real affection. He might have believed that his brother¡¯s change in attitude toward his Sister-inw was merely due to the nature of their rtionship, and his desire to see her was, well, of a certain nature.
However, Qin Sanlong was different now. He listened to his brother with genuine interest.
¡°I know you probably think I¡¯m just like many men, only focused on one thing when ites to women,¡± Qin Dalong continued. ¡°But you¡¯re mistaken. The rtionship between a man and a woman is about mutual care and respect. It¡¯s about both parties treating each other well, gradually realizing each other¡¯s worth. Feelings need time to develop.¡±
¡°That¡¯s why it¡¯s not easy to determine if you truly have feelings for a woman in a short period. The kind of love you hope for at first sight is quite exceptional.
If you insist on making that a condition for choosing a wife, don¡¯t you think it¡¯s somewhat stubborn and superficial?¡±
¡°Big Brother, I¡¡±
Qin Sanlong, who was usually quick with his words, found himself at a loss for a response.
Stepping back, he admitted, ¡°I¡¯ll take some time to think about what you¡¯ve said. ¡±
Qin Dalong patted his younger brother¡¯s shoulder with a reassuring smile.
¡°That¡¯s the spirit..¡±
Chapter 394 - 394: Return
Chapter 394: Return
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After sessfully arranging the marriage of Qin Silong and Chen Shanshan, the year was drawing to a close, and everyone eagerly anticipated the uing New Year festivities.
In ancient times, it was tradition to consider the 25th day of the twelfth lunar month as the year¡¯s end, effectively marking the beginning of the new year. The local prefectural school had a customary break starting on the 20th of December.
Both Su Bin¡¯s and the Qin family were making preparations to return to the countryside for the New Year celebrations. Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s parents had already traveled to the Qin Family Vige along with her grandmother, and the rest of the family members were nning to join them before the 25th.
Su Qing and Qin Sanlong were the appointed representatives responsible for the family businesses, and they were also in charge of closing things down for the holiday season.
These two individuals were thest to depart, ensuring they could make it back in time for the New Year¡¯s Eve dinner.
Qin Zhenzhen entrusted the management of the businesses in the provincial and prefectural capitals to Mr. Chen, who possessed a remarkable talent for organization and delegation.
On the surface, Mr. Chen appeared to be one of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s associates, but in secret, he held the role of vice hall master within the Dragon Phoenix Hall and served under Su Bin. His ability to effectively oversee matters on both fronts was a testament to his skills.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s business activities were divided into two categories: public and confidential. The Dragon Phoenix Hall, however, requiredplete secrecy. In this regard, Mr. Chen excelled at maintaining discretion and confidentiality. Not only did no one in the pce suspect him, even did not suspect him.
The Old Marquis was aware of Mr. Chen¡¯s background and the historical activities of the Chen family. However, he believed that the Chen family had retired long ago after facing a significant setback.
Witnessing the flourishing sess of Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s businesses under Mr. Chen¡¯s management put the Old Marquis in a jovial mood. Mr. Chen even provided periodic updates about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s business ventures and Su Bin¡¯s diligent studies at the prefectural school.
The Old Marquis couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of tion. He envisioned Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expanding businesses generating substantial wealth, which would ultimately be part of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s assets. In just five or six years after Su Bin and the others returned to the Marquis Mansion, he believed it would be the wealthiest estate in the entire country, perhaps even surpassing the national treasury.
The Marquis Mansion would no longer rely on financial assistance; instead, they might even be in a position to contribute funds to the pce. Such a prospect filled him with pride. He anticipated a time when no one dared to mock the mansion¡¯s decline, and all officials in the capital, including the emperor, would hold the mansion in high regard.
The Old Marquis anticipated that the Capital Examination wouldmence the following spring. When Su Bin¡¯s name appeared on the Golden List, it would mark the return of his siblings to the Marquis Mansion. By then, Su Bin would have achieved significant sess and established businesses across the country. Their return wouldn¡¯t be tainted by usations that they only sought the mansion¡¯s wealth and status; instead, it would be celebrated as a return with aplishments and prosperity.
This was in alignment with the agreement Su Bin had made with him in the past. The Old Marquis believed there was no need to publicly admit his fault in driving his son away from home and causing his first wife¡¯s tragic death.
He didn¡¯t need to acknowledge his mistakes, abandon his equal life, or expose his family¡¯s scandals. This allowed him to save face.
As a result, he willingly provided Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen with a substantial sum of money. He believed that such generosity deserved recognition and rewards.
In fact, the Old Marquis considered his reputation as important as Su Bin¡¯s eventual inheritance of the Marquis Residence.
On one hand, he desired Su Bin to inherit the Marquis Mansion because the pce had not recognized his child with his peaceful wife as being from the first wife. He saw this as an opportunity to annul his family¡¯s inheritance.
This way, the pce could save a significant amount of money each year..
Chapter 395 - 395: The Third Prince’s Visit
Chapter 395: The Third Prince¡¯s Visit
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
On the other hand, the children born to the Old Marquis and his peaceful wife disyed mediocre aptitude and unsatisfactory personalities. They were not suited for the weighty responsibilities that awaited them. Without proper heredity, the wealth provided by the Imperial Court would not be distributed. Consequently, if the Marquis Mansion were handed over to them, it would be at risk of stagnation or even sudden decline.
The Old Marquis¡¯s equal life had neither financial means nor influence. She couldn¡¯t provide support to the children, and her presence would only strain their resources further. The Marquis Mansion would undoubtedly experience a rapid decline under such circumstances, and the root cause of it all was the Old Marquis himself.
He harbored a deep fear that if the Marquis Mansion deteriorated during his tenure, he would feel a profound shame before his ancestors.
Upon Su Bin and the others¡¯ return to the Marquis Mansion, the situation took a different turn. Even if Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t have businesses spanning the entire country, Su Bin was an exceptional individual. It was highly likely he would secure a schrship, and if not, he had a prominent maternal family to offer support and secure his status.
More importantly, Su Bin possessed the qualifications to be the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir and the next Marquis, fulfilling the Old Marquis¡¯s deepest wish of preserving his hereditary position and ensuring the mansion¡¯s prosperity.
The Old Marquis¡¯s sole concern was that, upon taking over the Marquis Mansion, Su Bin might seek revenge against his equal life and the children of his peaceful wife. However, he had devised a solution. When Su Bin and the others returned to the Marquis Mansion, it was certain they would host guests. At that time, he would request Su Bin to publicly pledge to treat the child from his peaceful wife well in front of these esteemed guests.
Other than that, he would leave a lot of money for them in private so that they would not have to worry about food and clothing in the future.
On the 24th of December, Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen, and the others had already packed their belongings, ready to set off for the countryside the following morning.
However, that night brought two unexpected guests to their doorstep ¡ª the Third Prince and his master.
The Third Prince had been recuperating in the Flying Cloud Tribe, and although the emperor had sent someone to bring him back to the pce, he had been reluctant to return. The pce was under the dominion of the Empress and the Crown Prince, and returning would be akin to delivering amb to the tiger¡¯s den.
Nheless, the emperor¡¯s decree was not to be ignored. The Third Prince had postponed his return until the end of the year but could no longer dy it any further. The Emperor had explicitly stated that must return to the pce before the new year.
On New Year¡¯s Eve, a grand banquet was scheduled in the pce, where members of the royal family would have a reunion dinner. With his injuries almost healed and his master apanying him, the Third Prince felt more confident about returning to the pce.
However, he confided in his master that before entering the pce, he wanted to personally visit Su Ning and express his gratitude for saving his life. If Su Ning hadn¡¯t staunchly stopped the bleeding and expertly bandaged him that day, he might have indeed bled to death. Su Ning, despite her evident fear, had chosen to save him promptly, disying trust in him as a person.
In return for her kindness and trust, the Third Prince feltpelled to meet Su Ning at least once.
Lin Yue, the Third Prince¡¯s master, happened to be acquainted with Su Bin. When they met, they exchanged polite pleasantries, though an underlying wariness remained between them. Regardless of Su Bin¡¯s acting skills, he needed to convey that his intentions were solely to protect his wife and held no ulterior motives.
Lin Yue would not let his guard down.
Compared to Lin Yue, the Third Prince was more innocent.
He was still a 15 -year-old youth. Due to the torture of many years of illness, his body was much thinner than his peers.
However, he was really good-looking. As expected of the male lead in the book..
Chapter 396 - 396: Second Meeting
Chapter 396: Second Meeting
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin and the Third Prince were both strikingly handsome men. In the original book, the Third Prince was known for his radiant and cheerful beauty, while Su Bin¡¯s attractiveness had a darker, almost twisted edge to it, which added an air of intensity and suffocation. His tumultuous life, marred by suffering and being coerced into marriage by the Qin family, had led to a series of tragedies. The hardships endured by his siblings had further darkened his outlook on life, and his external demeanor reflected this inner turmoil.
However, since Qin Zhenzhen entered his life, the story had taken a different turn. Their family¡¯s circumstances had improved significantly, and his siblings were all doing well. Love had brought a positive change to him, and his outward disposition had naturally shifted towards a more sunny demeanor.
Nheless, the traits of a viin couldn¡¯t bepletely erased overnight. No matter how adept he was at concealing it, prolonged interaction would reveal that he possessed a scheming nature beneath the surface. To put it kindly, he
was resourceful; to be more blunt, he had a calcting side.
Lin Yue, observing Su Bin, had noticed this aspect of his character and regarded him differently. He might have also picked up on Su Bin¡¯s underlying scheming tendencies. Despite this, Su Bin remainedposed, realizing that he needed to continue his act.
The Third Prince expressed his gratitude to Su Ning in person. ¡°Thank you,
Miss Su, for saving us. I am extremely grateful.¡±
Su Ning hesitated before responding, ¡°No¡ You don¡¯t have to thank me¡ You alreadypensated me thest time.¡±
¡°But I didn¡¯t save you back then¡ for payment.¡±
Su Ning found it hard to contain her excitement at this moment, making it difficult for her to speak coherently. She wanted to remainposed, but it was proving to be quite the challenge.
First and foremost, the Third Prince was an exceptionally handsome young man, even more so than the top celebrities. He was standing so close to her, sincerely expressing his gratitude, which was bound to elicit excitement.
Su Ning¡¯s current emotional state could be likened to that of a modern girl meeting her idol unexpectedly. The surge of emotions was beyond description.
Furthermore, the Third Prince held a lofty status, yet when he spoke to Su Ning, he didn¡¯t appear condescending in the slightest. He even offered a warm smile and went on to exin,
¡°Miss Su, please don¡¯t misunderstand. I¡¯m aware that you didn¡¯t act for the sake of any reward, which is why I feltpelled to express my gratitude in person.¡±
¡°The item we sent previously wasn¡¯t meant as a reward; it was a gesture of our appreciation. ¡±
¡°I¡¯ll always remember your kindness in saving my life.¡±
¡°If Miss Su ever encounters any difficulties in the future, rest assured that I will do my utmost to assist.¡±
Su Ning was so ted that she couldn¡¯t control herself. ¡°Really? Thank you,
Your Highness. I¡ I¡¯ll remember your promise!¡±
Observing Su Ning¡¯s inability to contain her excitement, Qin Zhenzhen furrowed her brow slightly. She hoped that Su Ning would remember the Third Prince¡¯s promise but wouldn¡¯t develop any deeper feelings for him. However, she understood that achieving this would be a significant challenge. It was possible that Su Ning had already formed an emotional connection with the Third Prince, given her current disy of emotions.
The unfolding events appeared to be slipping out of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s control. In the original story, Su Ning had only seen Chu Tiansheng once when he was a child, but this was now their second encounter. Furthermore, they had engaged in a lengthy conversation.
It was evident that Chu Tiansheng held a favorable impression of Su Ning and had even made a promise to her.
Qin Zhenzhen was apprehensive that Chu Tiansheng¡¯s interactions with Su
Ning might create an illusion that harbored a certain fondness for her, potentially leading her to entertain inappropriate thoughts.
Observing this, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but feel secretly pleased. Several years down the line, the promise of an emperor was akin to a ¡°get out of jail free¡± card..
Chapter 397 - 397: Tax Avoidance
Chapter 397: Tax Avoidance
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen and herpanions returned to the Qian Family Vige to celebrate the New Year, and the vigers greeted them with newfound admiration.
Their gratitude towards Qin Zhenzhen knew no bounds. The vigers showered them with local specialties and generous offerings of chickens, ducks, and pork.
Qin Zhenzhen had not only illuminated their path to prosperity but had also extended opportunities for the vige¡¯s youth to work in the city. As a result, numerous young individuals from the Qian Family Vige had relocated to the prefectural city, finding employment within Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s workshop. Some among them had proven their capabilities and ascended to junior managerial positions, even relocating their families to the city. They had, in essence, transcended their humble beginnings in the small vige.
Once in the city, these individuals, with the support of Qin Zhenzhen and her associates, embarked on entrepreneurial endeavors, rapidly establishing themselves. Subsequently, they initiated a movement, gradually drawing in fellow town and county residents to the prefectural capital. Over the past year, they had formed a tight-knitmunity,prising individuals from various walks of life.
These spirited individuals often remarked with confidence, ¡°Meijiang Prefecture City will soon be under our dominion!¡± All of this progress could be attributed to thebined efforts of the Su and Qin families.
However, it should be noted that Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin did not ept the vigers¡¯ generosity without reciprocation. They, too, presented substantial gifts to the vigers as a token of their appreciation, and these offerings were far from modest.
When the vigers encountered Su Bin, they greeted him with deep respect. Su Bin had already attained the esteemed title of High Schr, deserving of the reverence bestowed upon him by all.
He had already be a revered figure, setting an example for all the schrs in the county.
In every examination, he consistently clinched the top spot¡ªa feat that was far from ordinary.
The tax burden on thend owned by the High Schr¡¯s family had been entirely waived.
The newly appointed vige chief, Qian Youfu, was highly impressed by this and promptly paid a visit to Su Bin¡¯s residence.
Upon Su Bin¡¯s sess in the High Schr examination, he had also revisited the Qian
Family Vige. The former vige chief wasted no time in discussing the possibility of transferring his family¡¯s and n¡¯snd to Su Bin, thus securing the tax exemption.
However, Su Bin declined the offer.
The former vige chief had a notorious reputation for mistreating the vigers. He had even colluded with Su Bin¡¯s uncle to exploit Su Bin¡¯s family and sell theirnd.
Su Bin had exercised remarkable restraint not to retaliate against such a person. It was inconceivable for him to offer any advantages to the former vige chief.
Su Bin had a somewhat stern demeanor and was certainly not inclined to y the role of a benefactor. Even though he had contemted his sister and brother-inw¡¯s future, he had initially attempted to avoid antagonizing the vige chief to prevent him from using his influence within the n to target his rtives.
However, the situation had changed drastically. The entire vige, and even the entire town, hade to rely on their family¡¯s financial resources. His brother-inw, Qian Shanmin, had ascended to a position of prominence within the vige.
The yams and herbs cultivated by the vigers now had to pass through Qian Shanmin¡¯s hands to fetch a favorable price. Their family was no longer subservient to the vige chief; on the contrary, the entire Qian family had begun to look up to them.
Su Bin had made up his mind that, unless the vige chief underwent a profound transformation, the Qian family would not grant him any concessions.
After Su Bin declined the proposal, word quickly spread among the Qian n members regarding the rationale behind his decision. In the interest of the n, the n leader convened a meeting with a few n representatives.
Ultimately, they reached a unanimous decision to depose the current vige chief, known for his hical behavior, and select a more responsible member of the n to take his ce.
In antiquity, n leaders typically wielded more authority than the vige chief, sometimes even having the power to determine who would assume the role of vige chief.
Qian Youfu assumed office after garnering the highest number of votes during the election.
Upon taking the reins as the new vige chief, his inaugural task was to engage in discussions with Su Bin regarding the utilization of deceptive ounts to evade tax obligations..
Chapter 398 - 398: Tax
Chapter 398: Tax
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qian Youfu arrived at the Su family¡¯s residence, where Su Bin warmly prepared tea for his guest.
Qian Youfu differed from the former vige chief; he was known for his integrity and had maintained a close rtionship with Su Bin¡¯ste father.
After Su Bin¡¯s parents passed away, Qian Youfu had extended a helping hand to Su Bin¡¯s family. However, a distressing turn of events unfolded when his eldest son fell seriously ill, baffling even the county¡¯s medical experts. To seek treatment, he journeyed to the prefecture capital, expending all his savings and umting substantial debts in the process. Despite his valiant efforts, he tragically lost both his son and his financial stability.
Over the past two years, Qian Youfu and his family had slowly emerged from the depths of their sorrow. During that trying period, their own anguish consumed their every thought, leaving them with little capacity to aid Su Bin¡¯s family.
Su Bin understood this predicament entirely, which is why he approached the topic of finances with utmost tact and consideration. ¡°Uncle Fu, please enjoy some tea,¡± Su Bin offered.
¡°Thank you,¡± Qian Youfu replied.
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Qian Youfu came straight to the purpose of his visit.
¡°Su Bin, I¡¯vee to discuss something with you,¡± he began.
Su Bin inquired, ¡°What is it?¡±
In reality, Su Bin had an inkling that Qian Youfu had a specific matter in mind when he paid this visit. While Su Bin maintained courteous decorum, he knew that agreeing to the Qian n¡¯s proposal to transfer the fields to him was a decision he needed to weigh carefully.
Su Bin had already formed his decision, so he remainedposed.
Qian Youfu proceeded, ¡°There¡¯s a substantial piece of unusednd on South Mountain. You¡¯re familiar with it, aren¡¯t you?¡±
Su Bin found the topic a bit unexpected. He had assumed that Qian Youfu hade to discuss the transfer of Qian n¡¯snd into his name, not the unusednd on South Mountain.
Originally, thend on South Mountain had been under cultivation. However, due to its remote location from the vige, it was not the most convenient for farming. The risk of wild boars and dogs damaging the crops was higher, andck of careful attention could result in efforts going to waste. Additionally, the soil quality in that area was rtively poor, leading to meager harvests.
Consequently, very few tenants were willing to rent fields there for farming. Thendowner had already reduced the rent to its lowest point, but still, no one was willing to take on thatnd. It had been abandoned for three years, and despite thendowner¡¯s attempts to sell it at a low price, no one had shown interest. It seemed like an unwise investment for anyone.
Qian Youfu¡¯s proposal was for Su Bin to purchase the wastnd at a reduced price and then rent it to the vigers at an affordable rate. The idea was that since Su Bin wasn¡¯t subject tond taxes, he could offer lower rent to the vigers.
Su Bin was taken aback by the suggestion. ¡°Uncle Fu, is this your personal idea, or does it have the approval of your n?¡±
Qian Youfu responded, ¡°It was initially my suggestion, but the n¡¯s patriarch also endorsed it. If this n seeds, the ones who will benefit will primarily be members of our n.¡¯
¡°In our vige, we have a considerable poption, and a significant portion of the fertilend remains in the hands of outsiders,¡± Qian Youfu exined.
¡°This situation has left many of our young vigers feeling powerless,¡± he continued.
¡°Over the past year or so, thanks to your wife¡¯s efforts, the residents of our vige and neighboring ones have been able to extract substantial ie from the mountains,¡± Qian Youfu added.
¡°However, it¡¯s worth noting that it will take at least two to three years for yam crops to yield a bountiful harvest. Eventually, the mountain¡¯s herbs will also be exhausted,¡± he cautioned.
The agricultural system in this country operated somewhat uniquely. If a fertile field remained uncultivated and untended, thendowner couldn¡¯t meet theirnd tax obligations. However, if someone aimed to reimnd, even on a mountainside, they had to officially register and document the plot. Subsequently, they would be required to paynd taxes based on thend¡¯s surface area.
It was essential to recognize that drnds generated significantly less tax revenuepared to paddy fields..
Chapter 399 - 399: Buying Land
Chapter 399: Buying Land
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The residents of Qian Vige were obligated to pay taxes if they wished to cultivate yams on the mountain. Consequently, some were willing to explore the mountains closer to the vige, while only a handful ventured into the more distant ones. Thebined expenses ofnd taxes and thebor involved in the journey often outweighed the benefits, making it a less attractive option.
Qian Youfu expressed, ¡°All things considered, the younger generation in our vige is brimming with energy.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve already met with the concernedndowner, and he¡¯s open to lowering the price,¡± he continued.
¡°There¡¯s approximately 80 mu ofnd avable there, and the cost is merely five taels of silver per mu. It¡¯s a rtively modest investment fornd acquisition,¡± he exined. ¡°Once you own it, you can offer rents at less than half the rate of other plots, which will likely attract numerous renters for cultivation. ¡±
¡°Uncle Fu,¡± he suggested, ¡°you can coordinate the vige¡¯s youth to construct a protective barrier around that wastnd to deter wild boars and other wildlife from causing damage.¡±
¡°Over time, the barrennd will gradually be fertile through sustained farming efforts,¡± he added. ¡°This would enable you to charge higher rents in the future.¡¯
Turning to Qin Zhenzhen, Su Bin inquired, ¡°Wife, what are your thoughts?¡± Qin Zhenzhen responded with a smile, ¡°The decision is yours to make.¡±
She could discern from Su Bin¡¯s expression that he had already agreed to the proposal, but he still sought her input. Did he intend to convey that she held authority over the Su family and that he followed her lead? It seemed a bit excessive.
Nevertheless, Su Bin¡¯s willingness to consider the idea demonstrated his open-mindedness.
Su Bin addressed Qian Youfu, ¡°Uncle Fu, please wait a moment. I will discuss it with my wife and inform you of our decision shortly.¡±
As they conversed, Su Bin pulled Qin Zhenzhen aside, seeking her opinion privately.
¡°Wife, do you think we should acquire that wastnd?¡± he inquired.
In response, Qin Zhenzhen fixed him with a stern look and asked, ¡°What if I say I don¡¯t want to buy it?¡±
Su Bin grinned and replied, ¡°Then we won¡¯t buy it. Your decision matters most to me.¡±
¡°If my wife wants me to head east, I won¡¯t venture west,¡± he assured her. ¡°I¡¯ll go convey our decision.¡±
Just as Su Bin turned to decline the offer, Qin Zhenzhen reached out and pulled him back. ¡°Enough with the act. You¡¯ve already agreed to purchase that piece ofnd, haven¡¯t you?¡±
Su Bin inquired, ¡°If you believe it¡¯s a profitable venture, we¡¯ll buy it. If you don¡¯t see it as worthwhile, we won¡¯t proceed.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen red at him once more. ¡°Isn¡¯t it profitable to help you build a good reputation and have your name respected far and wide? For your future as a high-ranking official, having a ster reputation is crucial.¡±
Pretending to have a newfound realization, Su Bin nodded. ¡°I see. I understand what you mean.¡±
With that, he returned with Qin Zhenzhen to face Qian Youfu.
Qian Youfu misconstrued their silence, believing that they were reluctant to part with four hundred taels of silver to acquire the wastnd, especially considering their family didn¡¯t rely on farm rents for their livelihood.
Feeling somewhat disheartened, Qian Youfu remarked, ¡°If you¡¯re not inclined, let¡¯s disregard the matter. I won¡¯t pressure you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen cast a pointed re at Su Bin, prompting him to rify, ¡°Uncle
Fu, you¡¯ve misunderstood. We¡¯re willing to purchase the wastnd.¡±
¡°My wife pointed out that our family isn¡¯tcking the funds fornd acquisition.¡±
Qian Youfu couldn¡¯t contain his happiness. ¡°Thank you!¡±
¡°If the rent is even half as cheap, I¡¯ll be even more grateful,¡± he expressed.
Su Bin reassured him, saying, ¡°Uncle Fu, you need not worry about renting thend. As my wife mentioned, our family possesses the resources to rent it without requiring any returns for three years.¡±
¡°What?¡±
¡°Did you say that you won¡¯t be collecting anynd rent for three years?¡± he sought confirmation from Su Bin.
Su Bin affirmed with a nod, ¡°Yes!¡±
Chapter 400 - 400: Seeking Benefits for the Clan
Chapter 400: Seeking Benefits for the n
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin turned to Qin Zhenzhen, saying, ¡°Wife, you should guide Uncle Fu on what steps to take.¡±
¡°Of course,¡± Qin Zhenzhen agreed without hesitation this time.
Continuing to decline might havee across as flirtatious, and it seemed that Su Bin might have deliberately orchestrated this.
Since Qin Zhenzhen was aiding Su Bin in umting merit, she concluded that it was eptable to be more generous in this instance. The new vige chief, Qian Youfu, appeared to have amendable character.
Qin Zhenzhen proceeded, ¡°Once we acquire the wastnd, Uncle Fu, we entrust you with full authority for its management.¡±
¡°Any rent collected from those who lease ournd should be duly registered and remitted to us,¡± she instructed.
Qian Youfu promptly responded, ¡°Thank you on behalf of everyone. It wouldn¡¯t be appropriate to entirely forgond rent. We should still collect some.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen rified, ¡°It¡¯s not that we won¡¯t ept rent, but for the initial three years, we won¡¯t charge any.¡±
¡°That particr piece of wastnd has remained uncultivated for three years, and restoring it to fertility will require considerable effort, akin tond remation,¡± she exined.
¡°That¡¯s why we¡¯ve decided not to impose rent for the first three years, considering it as a token of appreciation for those who explore and develop it.¡± ¡°We will begin collecting rent after three years, and it will be up to the renters to decide if they wish to renew their lease.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t attach great significance to these rental fees. However, not collecting any rent at all could potentially offend otherndowners. Those who possessed extensive fields and estates in rural areas typically had influential connections, whether through family ties to officials or as prominent local figures.
Collecting rent was a crucial source of ie for manyndowners.
Presenting the waiver of rent for the initial three years as a reward for those who ventured into the wastnd seemed like a more fitting approach.
Qian Youfu expressed his profound excitement and gratitude, thanking them repeatedly.
Throughout their conversation, Qian Youfu had never once mentioned the n¡¯s intention to bestow their fields upon Su Bin.
Upon learning of this, the n¡¯s patriarch grew irate and sought out Qian
Youfu.
¡°I appointed you as the vige chief with the expectation that you would pursue the n¡¯s interests. Only when the n prospers can it be safeguarded. Yet here you are, never once mentioning that matter, and instead encouraging Su Bin to acquire a vast tract of wastnd!¡± the patriarch chastised.
While thend of the High Schr¡¯s family could enjoy tax exemptions, there was a limit to the quantity. Su Bin had already purchased hundreds of mu of wastnd, depleting a significant portion of his allocation. If the n¡¯snd was also granted to him, he would likely refuse.
A High Schr could exempt at most 300 mu ofnd from taxes. Su Bin¡¯s family, with its considerable wealth, could keep buying morend repeatedly.
Qian Youfu had been chosen as the vige chief because of his amicable rtions with Su Bin¡¯s family. The n had hoped he could persuade Su Bin to support the vige¡¯s cause.
Qian Youfu defended himself, saying, ¡°I¡¯m acting in the best interests of our nsmen!¡±
The patriarch countered, ¡°You¡¯re contemting the welfare of a select few within the n, but I¡¯m concerned about the well-being of the entire n!¡±
¡°Our n can truly thrive only when all our nsmen prosper,¡± he emphasized.
Within the Qian n, there were only four families that possessed substantial plots of rentablend. These families allocated their fields exclusively to fellow nsmen, leadingfortable, worry-free lives from the rent collected.
If they were to feign bestowing theirnd to Su Bin, along with tax exemptions, only these four families would reap the benefits.
However, after instigating Su Bin to buy 80 mu of wastnd, everyone in the n benefited.
¡°If you believe that I am unfit to serve as the vige chief, I am prepared to step down!¡± Qian Youfu dered.
However, he offered a word of caution, adding, ¡°But let me advise you. Even if I had refrained from encouraging Su Bin to acquire that wastnd, he would not have consented to taking possession of the n¡¯snd!¡±
¡°That¡¯s precisely why I chose not to broach the subject. It would have been futile to do so,¡± Qian Youfu exined.
¡°Patriarch, you are well aware of the reasons behind Su Bin¡¯s refusal!¡± he asserted.
The patriarch found himself momentarily at a loss for words in response to Qian Youfu¡¯s assertiveness..
Chapter 401 - 401: Land Rent
Chapter 401: Land Rent
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The patriarch found himself silenced by Qian Youfu¡¯s resolute stance.
Indeed, after Su Bin¡¯s parents had passed away, the Qian n had extended no assistance to his family. Instead, they had allowed their nsmen to mistreat Su Bin¡¯s family. Now, with Su Bin achieving the status of High Schr, they sought to capitalize on his sess.
While the n was willing to reward Su Bin and offer himnd, he had already made it abundantly clear that he was not interested. His refusal remained unswayed, even if someone else brought it up.
Qian Youfu, in turn, was not inclined to exploit their past rtionship to broker a deal.
¡°If you believe, patriarch, that I am ill-suited to be the vige chief, I will step down,¡± Qian Youfu reiterated.
The patriarch fixed a stern gaze on Qian Youfu. ¡°Are you attempting to retreat in order to advance?¡±
As the patriarch, he had the authority to appoint or dismiss anyone as the vige chief.
Qian Youfu maintained aposed demeanor. ¡°If that¡¯s how you see it, then there¡¯s nothing more I can say.¡±
¡°I assumed the role of vige chief with the intention of contributing to the welfare of everyone,¡± he continued. ¡°And now, I have taken action that will benefit everyone.¡±
He borated, ¡°I¡¯ve been entrusted with the task of overseeing thend purchased by Su Bin¡¯s family. Anyone who rents his farnd will enjoy three rent-free years.¡±
He addressed potential opposition, stating, ¡°If you can persuade your people not to rent these fields for Su Bin¡¯s family, that¡¯s fine. I can lease them to people from other viges.¡±
¡°However,¡± Qian Youfu added, ¡°I believe that no one would willingly forgo these benefits.
Word swiftly spread throughout the neighboring viges that Su Bin had acquired the South Mountain wastnd and offered three years of rent-free leasing. The residents of Qian Vige eagerly sought out Qian Youfu for confirmation.
Once the news was verified, the vigers rejoiced at the prospect of three years of rent-free farming. It was indeed a favorable turn of events.
It was essential to recognize thatndless tenants faced significant hardships. In ancient times, rice production was limited, yet rents were exorbitant, with nearly half of the harvest being surrendered as payment.
During years of bountiful harvests, this arrangement might have sufficed, with the remaining grains barely sustaining the family for a year. However, in times of poor harvests, the entire family would have to endure stringent belt-tightening. In cases of droughts and floods, the situation became even direr, with tenants often required to pay rent even when natural disasters had ruined their crops. If unable to pay, they would umte debt or resort to selling their children to settle their arrears.
Given the opportunity of rent-free fields, tenants were understandably eager to engage in farming.
This development left the patriarch and the fewndowners in the n visibly displeased. The 80 mu of wastnd on South Mountain was in high demand among the vigers, which meant that the more fertile fields on their side would likely be cultivated less frequently.
The patriarch, in particr, owned a substantial amount ofnd. His family livedfortably by solely relying on rent ie. If the vigers ceased to rent his family¡¯snd, he would bepelled to lease it to outsiders or individuals from neighboring viges. This would entail challenges in rent collection, as it would not be as straightforward as dealing with fellow vigers.
Concerns arose over tenants from other areas seizing the grain and absconding without fulfilling their grain-rent obligations.
The patriarch wished to dissuade the nsmen from renting the newnd but hesitated to offend Su Bin. He also rmended that otherndlords reduce their rents, fearing that nobody would rent their fields otherwise.
However, those families remained steadfast in their refusal, suggesting that if the vigers who traditionally rented theirnd failed to do so in the uing year, they should not expect to lease it in the future.
If thendlords were inclined to diminish the rentednd¡¯s size, some vigers felt it would be better not to rent at all, opting instead to lease it to individuals from neighboring viges.
Word of this development quickly spread among the vigers, leading to animated discussions.
¡°They are being incredibly unreasonable!¡±
¡°Indeed! If they won¡¯t rent it to us, we won¡¯t bother renting from them anymore!¡±
¡°Now that there¡¯s no rent, we won¡¯t be left starving.¡±
¡°We can utilize this opportunity to venture into the mountains and gather medicinal herbs.. If fortune favors us, it might prove more lucrative than leasingnd!¡±
Chapter 402 - 402: Rent Land
Chapter 402: Rent Land
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The exemption of rent had indeed stirred up a significantmotion, which Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin had anticipated.
Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°The vige fields are exceptionally fertile, but the rent is exorbitant.¡±
Nheless, despite the high rents, some vigers were still willing to rent these fields due to their proximity and ease of management.
If thesendowners were determined topel the vigers to make a choice, there would likely be individuals who preferred to rent the fertile vige fields. These fields offered the assurance of a bountiful harvest and were conveniently situated close to home.
Su Bin concurred, saying, ¡°Yes, the rents were quite steep, about half of the harvest.¡±
He reflected on their family¡¯s history, sharing, ¡°In the past, we relied on rent.¡±
His father had absconded from home with a substantial sum of silver. Upon settling in the Qian Family Vige, he had used more than half of that silver to purchasend and establish a shop. The vige had nearby fertile fields and was conducive to their family¡¯s livelihood, which primarily centered on collecting rent.
However, Su Bin¡¯s father, a young master, possessed few skills beyond literacy and numeracy to support himself. As the saying goes, even a mountain of gold and silver can be depleted, particrly given his father¡¯s habit of extravagant spending.
With the family¡¯s size growing as more children were born, financial resources dwindled. Eventually, they had to sell theirnd and shop. As their circumstances worsened, they met with a tragic ident, resulting in the death of both parents.
Following their parents¡¯ demise, Su Bin and his siblings endured mistreatment from their uncle¡¯s family, who forced them to sell most of their remaining fields. The remaining small portion was nearly sold off by their uncle and others.
Fortunately, Qin Zhenzhen had been able to rescue him from those dire circumstances.
Qin Zhenzhen could piece together these past events from the descriptions in the books, and Su Bin had openly shared the details with her.
Quietly, Qin Zhenzhen sighed. She realized that Su Bin¡¯s father¡¯s downfall stemmed from his inability to manage money and n for the future. Given his limited capacity to earn, the family should have adopted frugality as their guiding principle. Moreover, after relinquishing his position as the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir, he should not have retained the lifestyle of a spendthrift young master. Adding to their difficulties was the fact that they had arge number of children. Even if nothing untoward had happened to him, they might have still struggled to make ends meet.
She pondered the possibility of him having a change of heart and bringing the children back to the Marquis Mansion in desperation.
¡°Su Bin, do you believe the patriarch and the others will lower the rent?¡± Qin Zhenzhen inquired.
Su Bin responded with conviction, ¡°Yes, I do.¡±
In fact, the patriarch and the others were eager to see the vigers continue renting their fields. Simultaneously, they were hesitant to truly alienate their nsmen, as they did not wish to incur Su Bin¡¯s displeasure.
Su Bin¡¯s assessment proved urate. Eventually, with mediation from both Qian Youfu and the patriarch, the matter was resolved. The patriarch and the otherndlords agreed to reduce rent by 10% and pledged to further decrease it in cases of natural disasters.
Nheless, they could not match Su Bin¡¯s offer of rent-free fields, as they still had to pay taxes even in years with poor harvests. The higher authorities showed little leniency, and asndlords, they dared not disy excessive generosity.
The vigers opted to continue renting fields from the few ns in the race, while the wastnd in Nanshan was equally divided among those willing to leasend, based on the poption. With diligence, they believed they could manage both endeavors effectively.
Qian Youfu adeptly managed this matter, and there were no objections from the vigers.
Word of the Qian n¡¯s decision to lower rents in order to retain tenants reached neighboring viges, prompting many to believe they could secure a favorable deal. They eagerly approached, expressing their interest in rentingnd from Su Bin. Some were even willing to lease a portion of it.
However, Qian Youfu informed them, ¡°All of it has already been rented out..¡±
Chapter 403 - 403: I’ll Listen to You
Chapter 403: I¡¯ll Listen to You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qian Youfu expressed his apologies, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but the amount ofnd is quite limited. Even our own vige doesn¡¯t have enough to go around.¡±
Hearing this, vigers from neighboring viges couldn¡¯t help but discuss the situation.
¡°It¡¯s not surprising that there isn¡¯t much rent-freend avable.¡±
¡°After all, Su Bin is from the Qian Family Vige, and thend he purchased likely prioritizes the needs of the vigers.¡±
¡°In any case, the Qian Family Vige took them in and allowed them to settle
here.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t be envious. It¡¯s our own vige¡¯s fault for not having a High Schr.¡± ¡°Even if we had a High Schr, it¡¯s unlikely they would be as generous as Su
Bin. ¡±
¡°You¡¯re right. I heard that the rent waiver was decided by his wife. While Su Bin listens to her, it¡¯s unlikely that he¡¯s naturally that kind-hearted.¡±
¡°I see. His wife is truly beautiful and benevolent.¡±
¡°That¡¯s for sure!¡±
¡°Previously, Su Bin¡¯s parents didn¡¯t manage their affairs well. Qin Zhenzhen is now umting merit for their family.¡±
When these words reached Qin Zhenzhen, she teasingly said to Su Bin, ¡°Do you have any regrets now?¡±
¡°You¡¯ve bestowed upon me a good reputation while retaining a less favorable one for yourself.¡± Su Bin shook his head with a smile. ¡°I have no regrets.¡±
¡°I did it for your sake.¡±
¡°The more esteemed your reputation, the higher your standing among the people.¡±
¡°That wretched Crown Prince won¡¯t dare to easily target you.¡± ¡°However, I suspect the Crown Prince is quite upied these days.¡±
A smug smile appeared on Su Bin¡¯s face.
The Third Prince had indeed returned to the pce, and this development put the Crown Prince on edge. He had to remain vignt, constantly fearing that the Third Prince might seek revenge or gather substantial evidence to expose his scheming, potentially in front of their father.
Adding to his concerns, the Crown Prince couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that the Third Prince might be just as cunning and strategic as himself. They were forced to maintain the facade of brotherly affection whenever they were in the presence of their father.
Despite all this, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but feel that the Crown Prince wasn¡¯t upied enough with these matters. With the intention of keeping the Crown Prince even busier, he instructed Mr. Chen to sell information about the Third Prince¡¯s counterattack to the Crown Prince¡¯s Residence.
This move further intensified the Crown Prince¡¯s predicament, leaving him in a precarious situation.
During this period, Su Bin believed the Crown Prince should have no room for other thoughts, focusing solely on his aspirations for the imperial throne.
Qin Zhenzhen looked touched. ¡°It¡¯s been hard on you. You¡¯re always thinking about me.¡±
Su Bin teased her. ¡°Then will you repay me?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen took the initiative to snuggle in his arms.
Su Bin reached out and hugged her tightly.
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°Are you satisfied with me throwing myself at you?¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but chuckle, his desire for one more kiss evident in his expression.
Qin Zhenzhen looked up at him, her cheeks flushed with a hint of shyness.
Su Bin leaned down, and the two of them shared another affectionate kiss.
After a while, Su Bin spoke somewhat awkwardly, ¡°Wife, I didn¡¯t n for this to happen. I couldn¡¯t control myself. Please don¡¯t me me¡¡±
Despite her blush, Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t push Su Bin away. This was how their rtionship had always been; they simply understood each other.
It was Qin Zhenzhen who took the initiative this time, suggesting, ¡°Why don¡¯t we sleep together¡¡¯
Considering they had already engaged in an intimate act that lovers typically share, it seemed like a natural progression. There was just onest step to take. However, Su Bin shook his head and said, ¡°I¡¯d like to wait until next spring.¡±
This decision surprised Qin Zhenzhen, who asked, ¡°Why?¡±
She had finally mustered the courage to suggest it, and he declined?
Su Bin¡¯s expression turned serious as he exined, ¡°I want to be a responsible man after passing the examinations. I also want to put an end to my ties with the Marquis Mansion. I want to clearly inform the Old Marquis that I must respect my father¡¯s choice and will not return to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°Only by truly striving for my father¡¯s vision can I consider myself a worthy husband.¡±
Whispering, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°Then I¡¯ll follow your lead..¡±
Chapter 404 - 404: Lesson
Chapter 404: Lesson
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After the initial month of the Lunar New Year, students from Shangjing embarked on their journeys to the capital, one after another.
The capital examination, also known as the Spring Quarter Examination, closely resembled the modern college entrance examination.
Typically, candidates participating in the capital examination were already esteemed as High Schrs. Nevertheless, there were exceptional individuals who joined the capital examination as Cultivated Talents.
This unique circumstance arose because the county examination for Cultivated Talents urred only once a year, specifically in the autumn every three years. Consequently, those who underwent the county examination in a given year couldn¡¯t participate in the local examination during that period.
However, certain outstanding Cultivated Talents could gain entry to the capital examination in the subsequent spring, provided they received joint rmendations from both the academy and local officials. This was especially true for impoverished schrs residing in the Capital who had experienced a fortunate twist of fate.
Had they achieved the status of a High Schr first, they would not have remained in the ranks of impoverished schrs.
It¡¯s worth noting that the imperial examination system varied across different dynasties. Some dynasties dispensed with the examination altogether, allowing anyone ssified as a Cultivated Talent to take the examination in Beijing.
In the context of the dynasty depicted in the book, a total of 150 individuals had the opportunity to pass the Imperial Examination and secure a ce in the rankings. To put it differently, the Imperial Examination of that year would admit 150 schrs.
Schrships were categorized into three levels: first-ss, second-ss, and third-ss.
The prefecture capital wasn¡¯t too far from the main capital; a few days of travel by carriage would suffice. This proximity made Su Bin feel no need to rush.
Moreover, he had no desire to arrive in the capital too early. His n involved bringing his wife along, and he firmly held the belief that, ¡°You will never leave your wife, and you will never leave your son.¡±
Su Bin harbored concerns that if they arrived in the capital prematurely, the conniving Crown Prince might manipte someone in their household to feign illness, luring Qin Zhenzhen into visiting the Crown Prince¡¯s residence.
Another rationale for their dy was theck of urgency. Unlike other examinees who had to scramble to secure amodations upon their arrival in the capital, they possessed a house there. Their objective was to find a suitable residence and limate themselves to the capital¡¯s climate so as not to perform poorly in the examination due to unfamiliarity.
A day or two in advance would suffice for Su Bin¡¯s arrival in the capital.
Furthermore, Su Bin had promised to bring Su Ning along this time, which filled her with excitement as it marked her first visit to the bustling capital. She yearned to witness the legendary prosperity of the city.
Initially, Qin Zhenzhen contemted objecting to Su Ning¡¯s inclusion on the trip, mainly because the Third Prince resided in the capital. She wanted to preempt any opportunity for Su Ning to develop deep feelings for him. However, Su Bin had made this promise long ago, and Su Ning¡¯s enthusiasm made it difficult for Qin Zhenzhen to dampen her spirits.
In Su Bin¡¯s family, only his eldest sister and younger sister had never been to the capital. Resigned to the situation, Qin Zhenzhen decided they should bring Su Ning along, hoping that their paths would never cross with the Third Prince¡¯s.
Throughout the journey to the capital, Su Ning couldn¡¯t contain her curiosity.
¡°Third Sister-inw, is the pce where the emperor resides, right?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in response. ¡°Yes.¡±
Curiosity filled Su Ning¡¯s eyes as she inquired further. ¡°How extensive is the pce, and how high are its buildings?¡±
With a sweeping gesture, Qin Zhenzhen illustrated her exnation. ¡°The pce isn¡¯t particrly tall. The tallest main hall has four floors, but it sprawls over an immense area, covering approximately a thousand mu.¡±
Su Ning couldn¡¯t hide her astonishment. ¡°A thousand mu? That¡¯s incredibly vast! ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen affirmed, ¡°Indeed. It houses the emperor¡¯s 3,000 consorts, his numerous offspring, and the concubines of the previous emperor.¡±
Su Ning¡¯s amazement grew. ¡°Third Sister-inw, does an emperor truly marry three thousand consorts?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen took this opportunity to educate her. ¡°That¡¯s correct! Aside from the empress, there are also four primary consorts. Beyond them, there are dozens of secondary consorts, not to mention countless other beauties in the pce..¡±
Chapter 405 - 405: Other Meaning
Chapter 405: Other Meaning
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Three thousand beauties? I¡¯ve mentioned before that it¡¯s a conservative estimate. The emperor selects a group of beauties to enter the pce every three years. Moreover, the pce maids chosen to serve in the pce also be the emperor¡¯s consorts. In total, there are far more than three thousand!¡±
Su Ning found herself momentarily stunned, then leaned closer to whisper into Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ear, ¡°With so many women, can His Majesty¡ fulfill his responsibilities towards all of them?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied softly, ¡°Certainly not! Some of the beauties never eveny eyes on the Emperor before they pass away, yet the Emperor never bears any guilt for them.¡±
A hint of sadness crept into Su Ning¡¯s expression. ¡°If he can¡¯t fulfill his duties, why did he marry so many women?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen exined, ¡°Possession!¡±
¡°In fact, it¡¯s not just the emperor. Besides the main and secondary consorts, there are numerous other beauties and concubines in the pce.¡± ¡°It¡¯smon for them to favor the new and neglect the old.¡±
¡°Some unloved ones are left in obscurity until they pass away from old age.¡±
¡°This is why it¡¯s said that the royal family is the most ruthless.¡±
¡°INO one rrom outside tne royal ramuy can marry Into lt.¡¯
Qin Zhenzhen shared these insights with Su Ning to underscore the impossibility of marrying the Third Prince. Regardless of Su Ning¡¯s feelings towards the Third Prince, Qin Zhenzhen felt it was crucial to be cautious.
Upon hearing this, Su Ning appeared somewhat reluctant to ept it. ¡°Not every prince¡ behaves this way, right?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded with certainty. ¡°That¡¯s the general rule. There are hardly any exceptions. ¡±
¡°That¡¯s because everyone within the royal family adheres to this tradition. If they don¡¯t, they¡¯ll be seen as unconventional.¡±
Upon hearing this, Su Ning visiblyposed herself, yet her expression bore a hint of unease, suggesting that something weighed on her mind.
Qin Zhenzhen contemted silently. Judging by Su Ning¡¯s demeanor, it seemed that she might already harbor feelings for the Third Prince.
At the very least, the idea of marrying him had crossed her mind, or she wouldn¡¯t have disyed such a keen interest in the matter.
Nheless, Qin Zhenzhen felt that her exnations had made an impact.
During the nighttime hours, Su Bin unexpectedly broached a topic with Qin Zhenzhen, asking, ¡°Did you have some ulterior motive behind what you said to Sixth Sister earlier today?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found herself taken aback. ¡°You overheard our conversation? What else could I possibly mean?¡±
¡°I¡¯m merely stating the facts. Perhaps I said too much,¡± she replied, refusing to acknowledge any hidden intentions.
Su Bin, however, wasn¡¯t buying it. ¡°Even someone with limited insight could see that you were cautioning Sixth Sister against trusting anyone from the royal family.¡±
¡°Are you concerned that Sixth Sister might develop feelings for¡ the Third Prince?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s surprise deepened. ¡°How old is your sixth sister? Why would you even suspect such a thing?¡±
Su Bin inquired further, ¡°Don¡¯t you have any doubts? You know Sixth Sister better than I do.¡±
¡°The implications of your words are quite obvious. If I didn¡¯t understand, I¡¯d be quite naive,¡± Qin Zhenzhen admitted somewhat awkwardly.
¡°Alright, perhaps I was overly cautious,¡± she conceded. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have imparted that to Su Ning. It¡¯s possible the Third Prince won¡¯t follow in his brother¡¯s footsteps.¡±
Su Bin tenderly embraced her. ¡°Wife, I don¡¯t intend to me you. In fact, I should thank you. You did the right thing.¡±
¡°Regardless of whether Sixth Sister entertains such thoughts or not, we must intervene promptly,¡± Su Bin asserted.
¡°Sixth Sister is incredibly naive; she wouldn¡¯t fare well against those scheming women in the pce.¡±
¡°I¡¯d prefer she marry someone from a less prominent family, one who¡¯d pledge his lifelong fidelity and shield her from the intrigues of the pce.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen breathed a sigh of relief. Thankfully, Su Bin shared her concerns.
Suddenly, Su Bin shifted the topic. ¡°Wife, what¡¯s on your mind?¡±
¡°I¡¯m not thinking about anything,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied.
¡°You¡¯re not being honest. Are you pondering the fact that we haven¡¯t spent any intimate time together today?¡±
¡°That¡¯s not true!¡±
¡°I¡¯m sure it is.¡¯
With those words, Su Bin sealed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s lips with his own..
Chapter 406 - 406: First Look at Character
Chapter 406: First Look at Character
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The date for the capital examination was set for February 18th.
After Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning apanied Su Bin to the examination hall, they returned home with Su Ning.
The structure of the capital examination closely resembled that of the local examination, with the examination hall being approximately the same size. It spanned nine consecutive days and six nights.
Over 90% of the candidates partaking in the capital examination held the esteemed title of High Schrs. Given the scarcity of those who could sessfully pass the imperial examination, the number of participants in the capital examination was rtively low.
Su Bin, well-versed in the examination process and bolstered by his overall confidence, appeared remarkablyposed.
The crown prince found himself exceedingly upied during the capital examination. The emperor entrusted the management of the imperial examinations to his heir. It was imperative that he oversee the capital examination without a hitch, maintain a favorable image in his father¡¯s eyes, and manage affairs rted to the Third Prince.
Most importantly, following the conclusion of the capital examination, he intended to identify and recruit talented candidates for future endeavors. The candidates he favored had to possess genuine talent and expertise, ideally ranking within the top ten in the capital examination. Consequently, he refrained from interfering with the capital examination itself but would exercise his influence during the ranking and pce examination stages. Additionally, he had received news that Qin Zhenzhen had apanied Su Bin to the capital. Thoughts of her face and figure tantalized his mind, but at this critical juncture, he dare not employ any overt tactics to draw Qin Zhenzhen into the Crown Prince¡¯s residence.
Recognizing this, Qin Zhenzhen understood that the Crown Prince had no opportunity to scheme against her at this time.
Qin Zhenzhen was brimming with joy as she took Su Ning on daily explorations of the bustling streets and winding alleys of the capital. Together, they savored a wide array of delicacies, ranging from the most upscale restaurants to the humblest roadside stalls. Their motto was simple: if it was delicious, they had to try it.
Back at home, the stove saw little use during these days. Only when Su Binpleted his exams in three days did Qin Zhenzhen personally prepare a sumptuous feast to nourish him.
After a few days of feasting and fun, Su Ning appeared to have put the Third Prince out of her mind. She wore a constant smile.
¡°Third Sister-inw, all the seasonings used in these capital restaurants belong to our family, right?¡± Su Ning inquired.
Qin Zhenzhen nodded affirmatively. ¡°Indeed.¡±
The sale of seasonings alone in the capital provided ample ie for her. Other merchants attempted to replicate her seasonings, but they fell short in replicating the distinctive taste that was uniquely hers. Publicly, Qin Zhenzhen attributed this extraordinary vor to a secret ingredient, often jestingly referred to as ¡°immortal seasoning.¡±
The term ¡°immortal¡± hade to signify a rare herb, obtainable only through extraordinary luck. Currently, only the pce and Qin Zhenzhen possessed this ingredient, leaving other merchants at a loss. Even the pce used Zhenzhen¡¯s seasoning, not to mention the prominent restaurants in the capital. Every household in the city relied on it, and even some humble street vendors embraced its use.
Initially, Qin Zhenzhen had hesitated to attach her name to the product.
However, those who sampled it would praise it as ¡°Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s seasoning.¡±
Over time, it naturally evolved into ¡°Zhenzhen¡¯s seasoning.¡±
This name rapidly gained recognition, and Qin Zhenzhen saw no reason to object. She officially embraced it. In fact, she rebranded her chain of health centers as ¡°Zhenzhen Health Center.¡± Her eateries and treatment facilities all proudly carried this name.
Her own name had transformed into a prominent brand.
Qin Zhenzhen seized the opportunity to offer Su Ning some quiet advice. ¡°Did you notice? Our family¡¯s influence stretches across the entire capital. I¡¯m confident that within three years, our family will be among the wealthiest in the entire country.¡±
¡°When your third brother takes the capital examination this time, he will undoubtedly secure a ce on the Golden List.¡±
¡°Our family is on the cusp of wealth and power.¡±
¡°Therefore, in the future, when you consider potential inws, remember to prioritize their character. Only those with strong moral values deserve your hand in marriage..¡±
Chapter 407 - 407: Having Thoughts
Chapter 407: Having Thoughts
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¡°If someone has a bad character, no matter how wealthy and influential their family may be, you should not consider marrying them,¡± Qin Zhenzhen emphasized.
¡°On the other hand, if he possesses good character and treats you well, even if his family isn¡¯t particrly wealthy, you can still consider him as a potential partner. ¡±
¡°You needn¡¯t fret aboutcking money after marriage. When the timees, the dowry we provide will suffice to make you financiallyfortable.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shared these words rapidly, leaving Su Ning stunned, her face gradually flushing with embarrassment.
Baffled by the sudden counsel, Su Ning inquired of Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Third
Sister-inw, are you worried that I¡¯ll face mistreatment in my marriage?¡± ¡°Or are you concerned that the man I marry won¡¯t be a good match for me?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded earnestly. ¡°Of course, I worry about that! But rest assured, your third brother and I will keep a close watch on your future husband.¡±
¡°Thank you, Third Sister-inw.¡±
While her face grew even redder, Su Ning expressed a serious reminder to Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°However, I don¡¯t want Third Brother and Third Sister-inw arranging my engagement behind my back. Before any engagement, I must meet and get to know the person first before making a decision!¡± ¡°Third Sister-inw, please convey this to Third Brother.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen regarded Su Ning and agreed, ¡°Certainly.¡±
¡°Could you also share with Third Sister-inw your criteria for selecting a husband in the future?¡± Su Ning inquired.
Feeling somewhat embarrassed, Su Ning responded, ¡°I don¡¯t have strict criteria. I simply believe that we must¡ get along.¡±
She couldn¡¯t admit that her future husband¡¯s appearance would be a significant factor, followed by his character and family background.
The image of an attractive man triggered thoughts of the Third Prince, his striking features effortlessly surfacing in her mind.
The Third Prince was undeniably handsome, his smile making him even more captivating.
In fact, Su Ning had previously considered her third brother to be the most handsome man in the world. Little did she expect that he would pale inparison to the Third Prince.
If only her future husband could be as handsome as the Third Prince, she thought with a flush of embarrassment, chiding herself for such thoughts at her tender age. Marriage was the furthest thing from her mind, and it was all thanks to Third Sister-inw for initiating this conversation.
¡°Third Sister-inw, I¡¯m still quite young. Could we not talk about this for now?¡± Su Ning requested, her cheeks still warm from her earlier musings.
Qin Zhenzhen had initially hoped to prompt Su Ning to admit her feelings for the Third Prince. Given Su Ning¡¯s request, she reluctantly steered the conversation in a different direction.
In that moment, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of powerlessness. Su Ning¡¯s expression had revealed more than words ever could: she indeed held feelings for the Third Prince.
Finally, the grueling nine-day, six-night examination period drew to a close.
As customary, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning arrived with snacks to collect Su Bin.
Early spring still clung to the chill in the air, and examinees were not permitted to bring quilts to the examination hall. To endure the cold nights without falling ill, they needed to possess robust health.
Examinees emerged from the examination hall one after another, wearing various expressions.
Some were brimming with confidence, convinced that they had excelled and were now simply awaiting the release of the rankings.
Others appeared crestfallen, recognizing their own inadequacies in their answers. Before the results were even announced, they harbored no illusions about passing.
A few hugged their families tightly, tears streaming down their faces as they confessed their perceived failures in the examination.
The majority, however, seemed utterly drained, yearning for nothing more than to return home immediately and sink into their beds for a well-deserved three-day, three-night slumber.
Although Su Bin was not among the first to exit, his energy levels far exceeded those of his fellow candidates.
¡°Third Brother, we¡¯re here!¡± Su Ning called out exuberantly, her upbringing in the countryside causing her tock the reserved demeanor expected of youngdies from affluent families. As she shouted, the family members who hade to collect their candidates turned their gazes toward her.
It was only then that Su Ning realized her impulsive behavior and blushed in embarrassment..
Chapter 408 - 408: Tenth Place
Chapter 408: Tenth ce
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Following the examinations, the candidates opted to remain in the capital to await the results. The top ten performers would earn the opportunity to partake in the Pce Examination, a chance to rise to new heights in their careers. This prospect fueled the hopeful hearts of all the candidates, each believing they had a shot at breaking into the top ranks.
In ancient times, there were no standardized answers; each question required aprehensive essay response. The examiners¡¯ scoring dependedrgely on whether the essay aligned with their personal preferences.
Despite the results not yet being disclosed, the candidates had organized small groups for sightseeing tours throughout the capital or held intimate poetry gatherings with friends. Wealthier candidates would host banquets for three to five closepanions, taking turns as the hosts, while those without sufficient funds consciously declined such invitations. Among schrs, preserving one¡¯s reputation was of paramount importance.
Compared to candidates from distant locales, Su Bin was in a considerably happier position. With Qin Zhenzhen personally preparing his meals, he enjoyed both excellent food and rest. He awaited the rankings with little anxiety.
The Crown Prince, however, extended a secret offer to enlist Su Bin for his own benefit. If Su Bin agreed, the Crown Prince would arrange a backdoor entry into the Pce Examination, potentially securing a top-three position for him. This could pave the way for a prosperous future in the capital.
Nevertheless, Su Bin declined with a firm stance. ¡°I apologize, but I serve only the emperor.¡±
Hmph! Would he serve someone who sought to exploit his wife and attempt to ensnare him? Absolutely not!
Furthermore, Su Bin had long been aligned with the Third Prince. He remainedmitted to assisting the Third Prince in ousting the Crown Prince from his position.
Upon hearing that Su Bin had turned down the Crown Prince¡¯s offer, the Crown
Prince¡¯s countenance darkened. ¡°You refuse a toast only to drink a forfeit!¡±
Of the five Grand Schrs responsible for overseeing the examination papers, four hailed from the Crown Prince¡¯s camp. Since the day the test papers were released, these five individuals had been cut off from the outside world, essentially ced under house arrest within the pce, where their needs were meticulously catered to. This measure was intended to prevent them from leaking the examination questions.
Nheless, the Crown Prince maintained various channels ofmunication with them. While he didn¡¯t dare tamper with the test papers, he had the means to manipte the rankings of the top ten candidates.
When he discovered that Su Bin¡¯s test paper was exceptionally outstanding and that he deserved the top spot, the Crown Prince realized he had been duped by Su Bin. Back then, Su Bin had masqueraded as a timid schr, deceiving both him and the emperor.
In truth, Su Bin had concealed his true abilities. The revtion of the Eighth
Imperial Uncle¡¯s rebellion had been orchestrated by Su Bin. He and Qin Zhenzhen had coborated from both inside and outside the pce to effortlessly eliminate the Eighth Imperial Uncle and the Jiang family. With such formidable capabilities, Su Bin had no intention of being manipted by the Crown Prince, who was undoubtedly attempting to suppress him.
The Crown Princeposed a discreet note and surreptitiously passed it to the examiners, instructing them to ensure that Su Bin was not among the top ten candidates.
Upon receiving this directive from His Highness the Crown Prince, the examiners found themselves in a dilemma. Su Bin¡¯s answers had undeniably shone the brightest, and they had already contemted ranking him first. However, they could not afford to defy the Crown Prince¡¯s orders.
As a result, the four examiners went to great lengths to scrutinize Su Bin¡¯s answers, seeking any errors or ws they could exploit. Ultimately, they collectively decided to position Su Bin in eleventh ce.
However, one of the examiners vehemently dissented.
A heated debate ensued among the five chief examiners, ultimately resulting in Su Bin being ced in the tenth position.
Tenth ce granted him the eligibility to participate in the Pce Examination.
Upon receiving this news, the Crown Prince did not express excessive dissatisfaction. He reasoned thatpeting in the Pce Examination as the tenth-ranked candidate was akin to being a merepanion to the event. After all, the top three positions were unlikely to be awarded to someone ranked tenth..
Chapter 409 - 409: Suppressed
Chapter 409: Suppressed
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Su Bin confided in Qin Zhenzhen about the Crown Prince¡¯s attempt to enlist him.
Analyzing the situation, Su Bin remarked, ¡°If he¡¯s making this move, it must be because my exam results are quite impressive.¡±
¡°At the very least, I should secure a ce in the top three. That¡¯s why he¡¯s interested in bringing me on board.¡±
¡°He might also be aware of what transpired before.¡±
A faint smile yed on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s lips. Su Bin¡¯s self-assured demeanor could easily be misconstrued as arrogance by those unaware of the context. Had she not already foreseen the plot and known that he had clinched the first ce in this year¡¯s capital examination, she might have been inclined to think simrly.
After all, securing a spot in the top three was no small feat.
¡°Wife, what¡¯s so amusing? Do you doubt my abilities and think I¡¯m boasting?¡± Su Bin inquired.
Qin Zhenzhen wore a radiant smile as she responded, ¡°I would never doubt you. I know you possess boundless wisdom and strategic prowess. Your literary talents are exceptional, and I have no doubt you¡¯ll be listed on the Golden List.¡± ¡°You might even im the top spot as the High Schr Primus.¡±
Unaware of the true circumstances and believing Qin Zhenzhen was simply offering support, Su Bin found himself pleased. ¡°You truly believe in me? You¡¯re not just trying to humor me, are you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s smile grew even more luminous, and she yfully teased him, ¡°I¡¯ve always believed in you. Otherwise, why would I have insisted on marrying you back then?¡±
¡°I had this notion that one day, when you rise to prominence, I¡¯ll bask in wealth and glory for the rest of my life.¡±
Su Bin responded withughter rather than annoyance. ¡°Well, it seems your taste is indeed impable!¡±
Feigning surprise, Qin Zhenzhen added, ¡°Oh? I thought you¡¯d be upset if I said that!¡±
Su Bin hugged Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Why would I be angry? Such a beautiful and capable wife is hard to find.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen teased him. ¡°I wonder who it was that wanted to strangle me to death?¡±
Su Bin did not look embarrassed at all. He grabbed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand. ¡°That was because I was blind. Wife, hit me until I vent my anger!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was not willing to hit him. She retracted her hand.
Su Bin was in a good mood. ¡°Wife, you can¡¯t bear to hit me, right?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen pushed him away. ¡°Who can¡¯t bear to hit you? I just don¡¯t want my hand to hurt anymore!¡±
Su Bin hit himself. ¡°I¡¯m really stupid. I didn¡¯t even think of this. Wife, I¡¯ll fight for you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen did not know whether tough or cry. She quickly grabbed Su Bin¡¯s hand. ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to hit me anymore. Your face is swollen. I don¡¯t love you anymore.¡±
¡°To be honest with you, I don¡¯t just love your talent. I love your face even more.¡±
¡°If your face is disfigured one day, I won¡¯t love you anymore. So, you have to take good care of your face.¡±
Su Binughed out loud again.
¡°I understand, wife. Don¡¯t worry. As long as you like it, I will definitely protect ¡°Including our family, I will also protect it well!¡±
¡°However, since that bastard Crown Prince has interfered in this matter, I will definitely be suppressed.¡±
¡°Even if I am on the Golden List, my name definitely won¡¯t be ranked high.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve already received a secret letter. That bastard Crown Prince has already asked the five main examiners to push my ranking back.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was very surprised. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect the Crown Prince to do this. He¡¯s really a little stupid!¡±
¡°If we were to reveal this secret to the Third Prince and the Emperor, it would undoubtedly put the Crown Prince in a precarious position, and he would have to face the consequences.¡±
In every dynasty, the imperial examination held great significance, and any form of cheating or maniption carried severe penalties.
Su Bin shook his head thoughtfully. ¡°The Crown Prince may not be as foolish as we think. He likely didn¡¯t anticipate that the Dragon Phoenix Hall is so well-informed..
Chapter 410 - 410: Double Happiness
Chapter 410: Double Happiness
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¡°He believed that his actions were wless,¡± Su Bin remarked with a darkening expression.
Qin Zhenzhen quickly inquired, ¡°Have you already shared this secret with the
Third Prince and the Emperor?¡±
Su Bin nodded resolutely. ¡°We must inform them.¡±
¡°However, the Crown Prince¡¯s advisors are undoubtedly formidable. They will likely have strategies in ce.¡±
¡°In the end, it will hinge on the Emperor¡¯s stance.¡±
Su Bin felt a wave of frustration wash over him when he contemted the uncertain oue.
¡°Therefore, even if I secure a spot on the Golden List this time, it¡¯s far from guaranteed that my ranking will be at the top.¡±
¡°I shouldn¡¯t aspire to be the Primus.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled warmly and offered her support. ¡°I truly believe you will rank at the top. You might even im the title of Primus.¡±
Despite the numerous plot changes, as a key supporting character, the storyline involving Su Bin¡¯s attainment of the middle Primus position should remain unchanged.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words lifted Su Bin¡¯s spirits, and he grinned mischievously. ¡°If I do be the Primus, what kind of reward are you prepared to offer me?¡±
In response, Qin Zhenzhen rolled her eyes yfully. ¡°How juvenile! What reward would you like? A candy bar, a kiss, or a hug?l can give you all that now¡±
Su Bin seized the opportunity and kissed her on the lips. ¡°None of those are sufficient. I want something more, something extra special!¡±
¡°The title of the Golden List is ¡®Small Degree,¡¯ while the bridal chamber is a ¡®Big
Degree,¡±¡® Su Bin yfully remarked. ¡°I want double happiness!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen blushed and chided him, ¡°Why are you so shameless?¡±
¡°It¡¯s clear that the bridal chamber isrger. Aren¡¯t you shameless for reading it the other way around?¡±
¡°If your ssmates ever find out, they¡¯ll tease you endlessly!¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at her response. ¡°If they knew, they¡¯d only envy me for finally having a beauty to share a bed with!¡±
¡°However, we absolutely mustn¡¯t disclose this to anyone else. Only the two of us should know.¡±
Otherwise, their secret would be exposed.
The moment for announcing the rankings had arrived.
The procedure for releasing rankings in the capital examination differed from that of county and local examinations.
Before the red list was unveiled, there was a unique segment involving singing. The names of every candidate on the rankings were melodiously sung aloud, allowing everyone in the capital to hear them.
This tradition served the dual purpose of informing the examinees who had remained in the capital about their rankings immediately and making the results widely known.
This year, a total of 150 schrs were selected in the capital examination, including thirty fellow schrs.
Candidates who achieved the same schrship were ineligible to participate in future capital examinations. Instead, they were given the opportunity to secure official positions, often serving as county magistrates in remote regions.
The lowest official position at this level was the seventh-grade sesame official, a term frequently mentioned in operas. Some individuals would opt to remain in the capital and start from this modest seventh-grade position.
However, those with connections and influential backers could ascend the ranks swiftly, even from a seventh-grade position.
The singing chartmenced from the lowest position, and from early morning, all the examinees strained to catch the sounds emanating from the pce, fearful of missing their moment to hear their own names.
The resonance of gongs and drums finally echoed through the streets of the capital, apanied by the vigorous cries of strong men.
¡°Huang Yulin, hailing from Huang Family Vige in Cannabis Town, Tongling County, ranked 150th. Gifted with the background of a schr!¡±
Huang Yulin¡¯s heart leaped with surprise and joy upon hearing his name. However, a tinge of regret shadowed his expression. He was pleased to have finally secured a ce on the rankings, validating his ten years of diligent effort.
Yet, he couldn¡¯t help but wonder how he had ended up in thest position. His self-confidence following the exam had been rtively high. Unfortunately, this marked the conclusion of his career journey.
If he were to be dispatched to a remote region and be a seventh-grade sesame official, ascending the ranks would be an arduous endeavor..
Chapter 411 - 411: This Is the Worst Outcome
Chapter 411: This Is the Worst Oue
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Huang Yulin epted the truth with a quick nod and a smile. After all, he had sessfully passed the exam. Compared to those examinees who hadn¡¯t made it to the rankings, he considered himself quite fortunate.
Fellow examinees who were staying at the same inn as Huang Yulin approached him, offering their congrattions. Most of them were understandably eager and hopeful for their own sess in the future.
When the official bearing the good news arrived at the inn¡¯s entrance, Huang Yulin generously distributed a bag of copper coins and silver pieces to those who had gathered to celebrate his achievement.
The singing chart event continued throughout the morning, and the excitement showed no sign of waning. It wasn¡¯t until noon that the top ten candidates finally had their turn.
¡°Datong Town¡¯s Qin Family Vige¡¯s Su Bin, ranked tenth in the high school examination, awarded a schrship!¡± The official announced as he arrived at Su Bin¡¯s residence. Qin Zhenzhen and others promptly tossed the prepared money bag, and the onlookers, including their neighbors, joined in to offer their congrattions and eagerly grab a share of the money.
Everyone was aware of Su Bin¡¯s status as the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir. Achieving a top-ten rank guaranteed him a bright future in the capital, with numerous opportunities to be a high-ranking official. It was clear that his prospects were limitless, as the saying went.
As more well-wishers gathered around him, Su Bin did his best to maintain a pleasant facade, even though he disliked the attention.
Upon returning home, his expression darkened, and he muttered in frustration, ¡°That Crown Prince actually ced me in tenth! I¡¯ve already informed the Third Prince and the Emperor about his interference.¡±
The response from the Third Prince reassured Su Bin that they wouldn¡¯t overlook the matter at hand. However, there was an unsettling silence from the Emperor¡¯s side, raising the possibility that the news hadn¡¯t reached him or that he harbored a bias in favor of the Crown Prince.
Tenth ce was an ufortable ranking, to say the least. While it did secure Su Bin¡¯s participation in the Pce Examination, it seemed like a mere formality. He knew his chances of making it into the top three were extremely slim.
The Pce Examination involved answering impromptu questions posed by the Emperor. Examinees had to respond before the Emperor himself, who would then evaluate the papers and select the top three performers. Typically, the Emperor would focus on the early responses and might not even have time to consider those from theter ranks, given his limited energy and preconceived notions that lower-ranked individuals were less likely to excel.
For someone like Su Bin, who upied the distant tenth ce, the likelihood of the Emperor even ncing at his answer sheet was bleak. This was precisely what fueled his frustration.
Su Bin had an alliance with the Third Prince and knew he had to rise to a high-ranking position to aid him. The thought of being undermined once again by the Crown Prince, which could result in an assignment to some remote region as an official, weighed heavily on his mind. His desire to put the Crown Prince in his ce was palpable.
Observing Su Bin¡¯s distressed state, Qin Zhenzhen attempted to offer some sce. ¡°Don¡¯t fret too much,¡± she reassured him.
¡°The Third Prince will seize this opportunity to deliver a substantial blow to the Crown Prince.¡±
¡°The Emperor is unlikely to be oblivious to what¡¯s happening; once he¡¯s informed, he won¡¯t let the Crown Prince continue unchecked.¡¯
¡°Moreover, even if you were assigned to a remote area as an official, it might not be a bad thing in the end.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s seize this chance to depart from the tumultuous capital. The mountains stand tall, and the Emperor is distant. We could lead a tranquil, worry-free life,¡± Qin Zhenzhen proposed.
Su Bin¡¯s countenance rxed slightly. ¡°It¡¯s perhaps the worst-case scenario.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in agreement. ¡°Yes, but it does mean you may not be in a position to advocate for your father.¡±
¡°Nheless, you¡¯ve given it your all. I¡¯m certain that, in the afterlife, your father wouldn¡¯t hold you responsible if he knew..¡±
Chapter 412 - 412: Palace Exam
Chapter 412: Pce Exam
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On the second day following the release of the rankings, the top ten candidates appeared in the throne room, impably attired for the asion.
Seated atop the elevated dragon throne, the Emperor presented a stern countenance, exuding an air of gravity. His presencemanded respect.
Gathered within the room were not only the Third Prince, the Crown Prince, and the five examiners but also a row of long tables popted by civil and military officials.
A dedicated table had been arranged for the ten examinees, who were now expected to provide answers to the questions posed by the Emperor.
Before delving into the questions, the Emperor initiated proceedings by inquiring about the names and origins of the ten candidates. Once satisfied, he presented a thought-provoking query: ¡°In the event a nation faces a circumstance of a depleted treasury, what measures should be employed to expediently replenish it?¡±
The ten examinees were prompted to respond immediately, fully aware that they were undertaking the most prestigious examination, the Pce Examination. The Emperor then imposed a strict two-hour limit for their responses.
Sitting on either side of the Emperor, the Third Prince and the Crown Prince exhibited an air of feigned filial piety. Their actions concealed their underlying rivalry, as they strived to appear as dutiful sons before their father.
The five examiners remained standing, exhibiting their utmost respect for the Emperor and the proceedings.
As the examinees began to tackle the questions, the Emperor busied himself with perusing their background information. Much like the civil servant examination, scrutiny of family backgrounds was an integral aspect of the process. The backgrounds of these ten candidates had already been meticulously scrutinized by the five principal examiners, so the Emperor¡¯s review was more of a reaffirmation. However, when he came across Su Bin¡¯s information, he studied it with particr attention.
Su Bin¡¯s father was originally the designated heir of the Marquis Mansion, but due to his suspicions that his mother¡¯s death might have been orchestrated by the Old Marquis¡¯s equal wife, the Emperor had been well-informed of this situation.
The Old Marquis had held a strong desire for Su Bin to return to the Marquis Mansion and assume the role of heir, a fact that the Emperor was intimately aware of.
As part of their endeavor, the Old Marquis had generously provided Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen with a substantial financial backing, knowledge that was also in the Emperor¡¯s possession. However, the Emperor remained uncertain about Su Bin¡¯s intentions.
Was he contemting a return to the Marquis Mansion to take up the mantle of heir?
Based on the avable indications, it appeared that Su Bin harbored reservations about such a course of action. The allure of bing the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir didn¡¯t seem potent enough to entice him.
This wasrgely due to Su Bin¡¯s talent and strategic acumen. He firmly believed that his future position could rival that of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir. Nevertheless, the Crown Prince¡¯s ongoing suppression was undoubtedly a pressing concern. If such suppression persisted, might it eventuallypel Su Bin to reconsider and opt to return to the Marquis Mansion?
The Emperor mulled over these thoughts deeply.
Su Bin was profoundly influenced by Qin Zhenzhen. Rumor had it that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s family had experienced a resurgence of prosperity since she married into the Su family, an urrence the Emperor was well aware of. He recognized Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s identity, intelligence, and remarkable capabilities.
She was, indeed, a striking and captivating woman. The Emperor had once found himself drawn to her, but he had promptly exercised self-restraint, knowing theplexities of their situation.
The Crown Prince, in contrast, appeared more resolute in his stance. It seemed that he had not relented in his determination.
Nheless, it was also evident that there was an affectionate connection between Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin.
Rumor had it that Su Bin ced great trust and reliance on her, heeding her counsel on various matters. Thus, whether or not she would choose to return to the Marquis Mansion hinged on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s decision.
Contemting this, the Emperor rose from his seat and moved closer to assess the candidates¡¯ responses.
As the Emperor loomed nearby, the examinees couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of anxiety while answering the questions. In this heightened atmosphere, Su Bin stood out for his remarkableposure, swiftly and confidently crafting his responses. Although he was seemingly cast as a minor yer in this scenario, Su Bin remained resolute in delivering his best effort, an act of self-respect and reverence for the Emperor.
The Emperor scrutinized each candidate¡¯s answers, observing amon thread in their suggestions. The candidates advocated raising taxes or implementing initiatives to solicit contributions from the wealthy, with the intention of covertly channeling the funds to replenish the treasury..
Chapter 413 - 413: Two Policies
Chapter 413: Two Policies
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The Emperor positioned himself beside Su Bin and remained there for an extended period.
As the Emperor perused Su Bin¡¯s responses, he noticed a significant departure from the other candidates¡¯ submissions. The more he read, the more engrossed he became in Su Bin¡¯s ideas.
While the royal treasury stood depleted, Su Bin¡¯s approach deviated from the conventional path. He advocatedmencing the effort to replenish the treasury by targeting the royal family, nobility, and the wealthy, rather than further burdening themoners with increased taxes.
He emphasized the heavy tax burden already borne by themon people, such as the rural farmers who were subjected to an extensive array of levies. Their obligations ranged from military service taxes to national taxes,bor taxes, paddy taxes, drnd taxes, head taxes, bull head taxes, pig head taxes, and even taxes on something as modest as raising a chicken.
The Emperor¡¯s countenance soured upon realizing the extent of themoners¡¯ taxation. He wondered how he had remained unaware of such a taxing system, which included levies on chicken ownership.
Nevertheless, the Emperor retained hisposure and continued to read Su Bin¡¯s proposals.
Su Bin¡¯s rmendations included two policies that could rapidly replenish the treasury. The first policy involved requiring the wealthy to disclose their assets, with a mandate that they surrender 5% of their wealth to the treasury. Although 5% might seem modest, the potential impact was substantial.
Su Bin also suggested implementing a whistleblowing system to uncover concealed assets. Any conclusive evidence of asset concealment would lead to the forfeiture of the entirety of the hidden wealth.
Under this proposal, the whistle-blower stood to receive a reward ranging from 20 to 30% of the concealed assets, creating a strong incentive for individuals to report wealth that was hidden from taxation. This mechanism would not only encourage those with knowledge of such assets toe forward but also deter the wealthy from attempting to covertly amass wealth.
The second policy entailed the nationalization of select projects, such as the iron industry, where both the resources and the mines would be state-owned. The Emperor recognized the perils associated with privately owned mines, where safety hazards were often disregarded in the pursuit of cost-cutting and profit maximization. Instances like concealing idents or covering upndslides had led to loss of life and deprived the victims¡¯ families of anypensation. These families had previously attempted to seek justice, but the corrupt influence of mine owners, who had bribed officials, had left them without recourse.
The Emperor acknowledged that designating minerals as state-owned would alleviate safety risks and bring substantial benefits to the nation. As he read on, he silently nodded in approval, finding Su Bin¡¯s suggestions to be remarkably astute.
Throughout this process, the Emperor had been stationed beside Su Bin, closely following the proceedings. The Third Prince, who was watching with a knowing smile, inferred that the duration of his father¡¯s engagement indicated a keen interest in Su Bin¡¯s proposals. The Third Prince was well aware of Su Bin¡¯s talents and capabilities, and he recognized that if his father embraced these suggestions, it would signify ack of faith in the Crown Prince¡¯s motivations for suppressing Su Bin.
The Crown Prince¡¯s demeanor, in contrast, was marked by frustration and unease.
He spected that his father¡¯s sustained interest in Su Bin¡¯s proposal must signify a genuine curiosity. This raised concerns about the potential elevation of Su Bin to a significant role based on his suggestions, which in turn might unveil his own role in suppressing Su Bin.
Despite his inner turmoil, he maintained a facade ofposure, skillfully concealing any trepidation.
With the Emperor by his side, attentively reviewing his responses, Su Bin initially felt a hint of difort, but he swiftly regained hisposure. These two policies had long been in his thoughts, thanks in part to the guidance of Qin Zhenzhen, who had imparted knowledge of effective governance.
If the Emperor were to embrace these policies, it would be amendable step toward serving themon people¡¯s interests.
Among the five examiners, one individual disyed particr delight, the only one among them who was not aligned with the Crown Prince¡¯s faction..
Chapter 414 - 414: Retreat For Advancement
Chapter 414: Retreat For Advancement
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Su Bin¡¯s initial rank had been 11th in their assessment, and it was someone among them who had argued for raising Su Bin¡¯s ranking by one spot, granting him the opportunity to partake in the Pce Examination.
Now, with the Emperor¡¯s palpable interest in Su Bin¡¯s answer sheet, the individual who had advocated for his improved ranking saw the potential for a unique insight to emerge.
For the four examiners who had initially been less inclined to favor Su Bin, a sense of unease began to creep in. The prospect of Su Bin capturing the Emperor¡¯s attention and the Emperor eventually discovering their deliberate suppression and maniption of his ranking weighed heavily on their minds. The consequences of such a revtion were difficult to fathom.
The Emperor finally resettled into his throne, his expression inscrutable.
The time for responses had arrived, and Su Bin was the first to submit his answer sheet. It was a bold move on his part, as both his suggestions had a clear bias toward the welfare of themon people. They also included criticism of the Imperial Court, alleging that it favored the rich at the expense of themoners.
As the ultimate decision-maker, the Emperor was naturally averse to hearing any criticism or dissent against his regime. If his proposals didn¡¯t resonate with the Emperor and weren¡¯t epted, it could result in dire consequences. Even if he was not cklisted, his prospects in the capital would be severelypromised.
Yet, as the saying goes, fortune favors the bold. Su Bin was willing to ept the risks, as his wife had reminded him: the mountains were high, and the Emperor was distant. They could lead a carefree life.
The Emperor diligently perused Su Bin¡¯s answer sheet from beginning to end. Subsequently, he allowed the Crown Prince and the Third Prince to review it, and he instructed the five examiners to continue their duties.
Subsequently, the Emperor examined the responses of the other nine individuals, but none disyed the same level of earnestness and depth as Su Bin.
Once everyone had reviewed the answers, a consensus began to emerge¡ª the Emperor had taken a liking to Su Bin¡¯s suggestions. This realization left the four examiners who had initially suppressed Su Bin with a mix of admiration and difort. While they desired tomend his proposals, they were constrained by the predicament they had created for themselves. They subtly cast nces towards the Crown Prince, hoping to glean his intentions from his demeanor.
However, the Crown Prince maintained a masterful facade of indifference, giving no sign of his thoughts, which only increased the examiners¡¯ unease. They had no choice but to adapt to the unfolding circumstances.
The ten examinees were subsequently escorted to a side hall where they could enjoy tea and take a brief respite.
Meanwhile, on the Emperor¡¯s side, discussions ensued with the Third Prince and those who had provided well-received answers. Main ExaminerHuang, who had been instrumental in ensuring Su Bin¡¯s opportunity, was the first to express his admiration.
¡°Your Majesty, in my assessment, Su Bin, who ranks tenth, delivered the most exceptional response,¡± Huang dered without reservation. ¡°His suggestions are notably wise.¡±
¡°What truly sets him apart is his demonstrated concern for the welfare of both the nation and its people, even before assuming official duties. His ability to empathize with the struggles of themon people is remarkable.¡±
The Emperor turned his attention to the Third Prince, inquiring, ¡°What are your thoughts?¡±
The Third Prince responded, ¡°I believe that Main Examiner Huang¡¯s recognition of Su Bin¡¯s suggestion is indeed warranted, but he might have overlooked Su Bin¡¯s tendency toward overconfidence.¡±
¡°He appears to harbor discontent with the court.¡±
¡°Even though he hasn¡¯t assumed an official role yet, his words carry a sharp edge. If he ascends to high office, I fear he may struggle to temper his outspokenness.¡±
The Third Prince¡¯s remarks refrained from offering outright praise for Su Bin; instead, he emphasized Su Bin¡¯s potential shorings.
This approach was motivated by a desire to withdraw subtly, aiming to create the impression that Su Bin was a candid individual who only dared to express his opinions frankly. The Third Prince sought to deter any suspicion that Su Bin had a particr allegiance to his faction. He had never divulged to the Emperor that the Crown Prince had bribed the Main Examiner..
Chapter 415 - 415: New Primus
Chapter 415: New Primus
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As expected, the Emperor turned a thoughtful gaze toward the Third Prince before shifting his attention to the Crown Prince, inquiring, ¡°What are your thoughts?¡±
Before his arrival, the Crown Prince¡¯s advisors had meticulously evaluated the advantages and drawbacks of the Pce Examination. They had cautioned him against revealing any vulnerability that the Emperor could exploit and had advised him to take deliberate actions to suppress Su Bin.
The Emperor¡¯s initial query to the Third Prince had ced the Crown Prince on high alert. He contemted the possibility that his father might have already discerned his involvement in Su Bin¡¯s suppression. However, he was reluctant to ept such suspicions and viewed it as a test of his loyalty.
To ay his father¡¯s doubts, the Crown Prince chose to employ a strategy of deflection and counteraction. Consequently, he swiftly responded, ¡°I share the same sentiments as Main Examiner Huang.¡±
¡°Su Bin is undoubtedly a rare talent.¡±
¡°His literary abilities are also exceptionallymendable. Regrettably, my own talents do not measure up. I believe Su Bin¡¯sposition may even surpass that of the top nine candidates. His essays clearly reflect his extraordinary talent.¡±
¡°But I find myself perplexed by one aspect: why would a candidate of such remarkable caliber be ranked only tenth?¡±
With this statement, the Crown Prince effectively shifted the me onto the five examiners. The Emperor turned his gaze toward the examiners and called upon Main Examiner Huang to rify.
Without hesitation, Main Examiner Huang openly disclosed, ¡°I had initially rmended Su Bin for the first position!¡±
¡°However, the four other examiners pointed out numerous ws in Su Bin¡¯s essay, and, as a result, they collectively suggested ranking him eleventh.¡±
¡°Upon my insistence, Su Bin¡¯s rank was elevated to tenth ce.¡±
Main Examiner Huang did not withhold the truth in his response.
In his heart, Main Examiner Huang was well aware that the other four examiners were loyal to His Highness the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince had, on various asions, dropped subtle hints to enlist his support, yet he consistently maintained the guise of an upright official and feigned ignorance of the Crown Prince¡¯s intentions. Observing Huang¡¯s stance,
the Crown Prince opted not to press the matter further.
By adopting this approach, Main Examiner Huang aimed to both avoid offending the Crown Prince and steer clear of any entanglements that might implicate him with the Crown Prince¡¯s faction. While he believed that the Crown Prince would ultimately ascend the throne sessfully, he refrained from assisting in any covert machinations.
Regardless, Main Examiner Huang held little regard for the supposed merits of winning the Emperor¡¯s favor. The four other examiners, however, were in a state of anxiety.
Nheless, the Emperor refrained from immediately reprimanding them. Instead, he instructed them to retrieve the examination papers that had secured Su Bin¡¯s rank. Fortunately, these four examiners were not inept and did indeed identify some ws in Su Bin¡¯s answers, ranging from minor to substantial.
Their eloquence skillfully obscured these issues, diverting attention from Su
Bin¡¯s performance. Nevertheless, they remained acutely aware that the Emperor was not oblivious to the underlying circumstances. The Emperor¡¯s willingness to entertain their exnations and withhold immediate punishment wasrgely due to the Crown Prince¡¯s influence.
When the Emperor eventually announced that this year¡¯s Primus was Su Bin, everyone present was left utterly bbergasted. The Crown Prince, in particr, found himself astounded by the unforeseen turn of events. He had never anticipated that his deliberate suppression of Su Bin would lead to Su Bin¡¯s triumphant ascension as the new Primus.
His father exhibited no concern about the potential ridicule and mockery this situation might incite among the court¡¯s civil and military officials. He seemed undeterred by the thought, showing a distinctck of consideration for his son¡¯s reputation.
The fact that the four examiners were loyal to the Crown Prince wasmon knowledge, leaving little room for doubt that Su Bin had experienced suppression. Yet, to the astonishment of many, Su Bin had managed a remarkable resurgence during the pce examination.
Main Examiner Huang expressed his jubtion, proiming, ¡°Your Majesty¡¯s wisdom shines brightly. Su Bin is truly deserving of this recognition!¡±
In tandem, the Third Prince voiced his approval, ¡°Father¡¯s wisdom knows no bounds!¡±
He articted his words in a manner that implied his puzzlement over his father¡¯s motivations in this scenario..
Chapter 416 - 416: The Crown Prince’s Vicious Plan
Chapter 416: The Crown Prince¡¯s Vicious n
In ancient times, the selection of a new Primus was governed by four essential criteria.
The first requirement revolved around physical appearance; the candidate needed to possess a handsome countenance. A pleasing appearance was highly regarded and often added extra points to one¡¯s candidacy. When the newly chosen Primus rode into the capital on a stately horse, it wasmon for many women to be enamored. The new Primus was frequently considered a potential suitor for the princess.
Su Bin¡¯s appearance fully satisfied this initial condition.
The second condition pertained to the candidate¡¯s ability to articte thoughts eloquently. The individual had to be exceptionally well-spoken. Su Bin also fulfilled this requirement, as he disyed his eloquence while exining his answers to the Emperor earlier.
The third stiption revolved around the candidate¡¯s handwriting; beautiful penmanship could also garner additional points.
The fourth condition assessed the candidate¡¯s literary capabilities.
Su Bin met all four criteria and was deemed a worthy selection.
Su Bin was taken aback by his appointment as the Primus, and he felt a surge of excitement.
As the new Primus, he could gain direct entry into the Hanlin Academy, securing a position as a fourth-rank official. Provided he steered clear of errors, he stood a strong chance of advancement, with a 99% likelihood of remaining in the capital. This position would greatly benefit his efforts to support the Third Prince and undermine the Crown Prince. Additionally, it would enable him to finally work towards his father¡¯s well-being.
With his newfound strength, Su Bin could convey to the Old Marquis that he no longer needed to rely solely on his status as the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir to attain a position of prominence.
What made him the happiest was that he could spend his wedding night with his beloved wife!
Su Bin put on a red robe, a mask, and a Primus hat. There was a big red flower on his chest as he rode a tall horse out of the pce. Behind him were the second and the third.
In front of them, officials were beating gongs and drums.
In the capital, the streets filled with people who had rushed out of their homes to witness themotion. Among the onlookers, the girls and newly-wedded wives were particrly enthusiastic.
The allure was themon knowledge that every Primus was a handsome man. Upon seeing Su Bin¡¯s true appearance, the crowd¡¯s excitement reached a fever pitch. Some even hurriedly spread the news:
¡°The new Primus has arrived in the capital!¡±
¡°Come and catch a glimpse, the new Primus is astonishingly handsome!¡±
¡°He¡¯s like a figure from a painting.¡±
¡°The lucky girl who marries this Primus must be truly blessed.¡± Amid the chatter, one voice chimed in with amusement:
¡°Are you living under a rock? The new Primus is Su Bin, and he¡¯s already married!¡±
¡°His wife, Qin Zhenzhen, is a renowned divine doctor who once cured the Empress Dowager¡¯s persistent headache.¡±
¡°Su Bin himself has an esteemed background. His father was once the heir of the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°The two of them are truly a match made in heaven.¡±
¡°People with daughters can only watch in envy and jealousy of the new Primus.¡¯
The Crown Prince harbored a deep sense of discontent over Su Bin¡¯s appointment as the new Primus. As he contemted Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s enchanting presence, he plotted a devious scheme.
Hemenced by presenting a portrait of Su Bin to his fifth sister, who shared the same mother with him.
¡°Fifth Sister, what do you make of this man?¡±
Uponying eyes on Su Bin¡¯s likeness, the fifth princess was captivated by a certain aspect, her cheeks flushing crimson. She had never encountered such a strikingly handsome man in her life.
¡°Who is he?¡±
The Crown Prince couldn¡¯t conceal his delight. He was well aware that showcasing Su Bin¡¯s portrait to his fifth sister would elicit her fascination. He knew that Fifth Sister held a particr penchant for handsome men.
Despite being born from the same mother, the Third Prince¡¯s superior looks had overshadowed him. Consequently, Fifth Sister often chose to y with the Third Prince rather than pay heed to her own biological brother.
The Crown Prince had even enlisted the assistance of one of the girls close to Fifth Sister, who had revealed that Fifth Sister had ndestinely stashed away several pictures of handsome men..
Chapter 417 - 417: A Hundred Times Better Than in the Portrait
Chapter 417: A Hundred Times Better Than in the Portrait
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The Crown Prince beamed and informed the fifth princess, ¡°He¡¯s Su Bin, the new Primus.¡±
¡°Is¡ Is he Divine Doctor Qin¡¯s husband?¡±
¡°That¡¯s right.¡±
Her enthusiasm waned slightly. The fifth princess was somewhat disappointed. Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s fame for curing the empress dowager¡¯s headache had spread far and wide in the capital. Her husband, Su Bin, was also a household name. His striking good looks and remarkable talents had left a strong impression on her, causing her heart to flutter at first sight.
Unfortunately, he was already married.
¡°Why is Brother Crown Prince so vexing? What¡¯s the purpose of showing me this portrait?¡± She pondered, specting on his intentions.
The Crown Prince was well aware of his fifth sister¡¯s thoughts but chose to feign ignorance, offering a soft exnation, ¡°Big Brother knew that Fifth Sister enjoys collecting pictures of handsome men, so he sent this painting over. If it doesn¡¯t appeal to you, I can take it back.¡±
With that, he made a move to retrieve the portrait.
After a moment¡¯s contemtion, the fifth princess snatched Su Bin¡¯s portrait back, dering, ¡°I actually needed one like this.¡±
Given that her brother, the Crown Prince, was already privy to her penchant for collecting images of handsome men, she felt little concern about him disclosing her secret. Should she ever marry an unattractive man in the future, these portraits of handsome men would serve as her spiritual sustenance.
Observing that his fifth sister had held onto the portrait, the Crown Prince concealed his inner satisfaction. He decided to engage in light banter.
¡°You know, collecting portraits of handsome men is perfectly fine because everyone appreciates beauty. I, for one, share amon interest with Fifth Sister¡ªI enjoy collecting portraits of beautiful women.¡±
The fifth princess yfully rolled her eyes at her brother. ¡°Brother Crown Prince, your interests extend far beyond just collecting Portraits of Beauty, don¡¯t they?¡±
It was no secret that the Crown Prince had an insatiable appetite for beautiful women of all types. Rumor had it that he had a particr penchant for Qin Zhenzhen and had even attempted to forcibly take her away. Had it not been for their father¡¯s timely intervention, Qin Zhenzhen might have already been residing in the Crown Prince¡¯s pce.
At this thought, the fifth princess cast a resentful gaze in her brother¡¯s direction. Why hadn¡¯t the typically audacious Crown Prince seized Qin Zhenzhen back then? If he had, she could have recruited Su Bin as her son-inw!
Each year, the new Primus was essentially a Prince Consort groomed for princesses like them.
Observing that his purpose had been achieved, the Crown Prince smoothly changed the subject.
¡°Fifth Sister, you¡¯ve always enjoyed bustling ces, haven¡¯t you? Today,l will take you out of the pce for a little outing.¡±
When the fifth princess heard this, she became excited. ¡°That¡¯s great! Thank you, Brother Crown Prince!¡±
She and Brother Crown Prince were born from the same mother, and their hobbies were the same.
The crown prince liked to sleep with beautiful women, and she actually liked to sleep with handsome men.
However, she was a woman and did not dare to be as arrogant as Brother Crown Prince.
But she was no less courageous than the crown prince.
Actually, she had already slept with more than one handsome man. Every time, she would disguise herself and go out to fool around.
She thought that only her trusted subordinates knew about this. She did not expect the crown prince to know long ago that she had no resistance to handsome men.
She seemed to understand the Crown Prince¡¯s intentions.
The crown prince brought the fifth princess out of the pce in disguise.
He specially brought her to the streets of the capital to see the new Primus tour the capital.
Su Bin, who was riding on a horse in high spirits, looked around with his beautiful eyes. His gaze seemed to be looking for someone, and the fifth princess was stunned.
Oh my god! He was a hundred times better-looking than in the portrait!
If she could sleep with this handsome man, she would have no regrets in her life.
It was really a coincidence. Su Bin¡¯s gaze happened to meet the fifth princess¡¯s. The fifth princess¡¯s heart immediately fluttered..
Chapter 418 - 418: Don’t Have Fantasy
Chapter 418: Don¡¯t Have Fantasy
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In this moment, the fifth princess made a silent vow to herself, determined to find a way to get closer to Su Bin.
Su Bin, being quite perceptive, noticed the intensity in her gaze as their eyes met, causing him to furrow his brows.
Although the fifth princess was disguised as a male guard, her curious expression puzzled him.
Initially, her look appeared aggressive and possessive, but it quickly transformed, resembling the effects of an aphrodisiac.
¡®Who is she?¡¯ Su Bin wondered.
Upon realizing the bastard crown prince standing beside her, Su Bin¡¯s heart raced. Could she be the fifth princess?
Su Bin was privy to the unique shared interests of the fifth princess and the bastard crown prince, knowledge obtained through the extensive intelligencework of the Dragon Phoenix Hall.
Exploiting these shared secrets could be highly lucrative.
Su Bin knew the fifth princess led a rather libertine life and often ventured out of the pce in male guard attire. She was audacious, even going so far as to visit a brothel once.
If she truly was the fifth princess, was she showing an interest in him?
Su Bin felt a wave of disgust, prompting him to avert his gaze from the fifth princess.
Coincidentally, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning appeared in the midst of themotion.
¡°Third Sister-inw, just look at this! Third Brother looks incredibly dashing in that attire, especially atop that horse,¡± Qin Zhenzhen eximed, her heart racing as she gazed at Su Bin.
She had to admit that in her eyes, Su Bin was no longer the inexperienced young man she once knew, but a mature and strikingly handsome man.
Reflecting on what Su Bin had told her, it was no wonder her heart raced.
Initially, Qin Zhenzhen hadn¡¯t intended to join the crowd, but she couldn¡¯t resist her curiosity, ultimately persuading Su Ning. ¡°Third Sister-inw, please let me go see. I¡¯d love to witness Third Brother in his red robe, riding that white horse.¡±
Su Ning responded, ¡°If you¡¯re so eager to see, we can have him stroll around the courtyard after he¡¯s done with his swim in the capital and returns home.¡±
Unsatisfied with this, Qin Zhenzhen persisted. ¡°That¡¯s not the same. I want to see how popr he is!¡±
And, tempted by the prospect, Qin Zhenzhen also desired to witness Su Bin¡¯s poprity, especially given that she was going to spend her first real wedding night with him. It was quite intriguing that he had risen to the rank of Primus despite starting at tenth ce.
Could it be that even fate itself favored Su Bin?
Seeing her daughter-inw craning her neck to catch a glimpse of Su Bin touring the capital, Qin Zhenzhen felt a sweet satisfaction. At this moment, Su Bin truly appeared enchanting.
He had started as the handsome but pitiable supporting character in the original story. How had he managed to win the heart of the protagonist?
As Su Bin drew closer, he remained oblivious to Qin Zhenzhen in the crowd. ¡°Third Brother! Look over here, we¡¯re here!¡±
Su Ning retained her rustic charm, raising her hand and waving her handkerchief as she shouted with vigor, her voice cutting through the noise and adtion of the crowd.
Both the women and their husbands turned their attention to Su Ning and Qin
Zhenzhen.
Su Bin, overjoyed, finally noticed them in the throng.
¡°Wife! Sixth Sister!¡± he called out, preparing to dismount from his horse.
He was overwhelmed with the desire to break through the crowd and embrace Qin Zhenzhen tightly, determined to make it clear to everyone that his heart belonged to her alone. He had no room for the affections of any other woman.
Yet, his intention to do so was halted by an official apanying him. ¡°Primus Su, protocol dictates that the newly appointed Primus cannot dismount from the horse during the journey to the capital.¡±
Su Bin raised his voice to exin, ¡°But that¡¯s my wife and Sixth Sister there. I need to dismount and speak with them.¡±
The official persisted, shaking his head. ¡°These are the regtions, Primus Su, please understand.¡±
In a teasing tone, another bystander chimed in, ¡°Well, if you want to chat with your wife, you can do it while on your horse.¡±
A yful smile tugged at the corners of someone else¡¯s lips as they asked, ¡°Are you nning to make a public deration of your love to your wife, Primus?¡±
Chapter 419 - 419: Good Outcome
Chapter 419: Good Oue
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The capital city was vast, and it would take a considerable amount of time for the officials to escort the new Primus through the crowd. Their responsibility was to ensure Su Bin¡¯s safety, and they were determined to avoid any untoward incidents in the tightly packed gathering.
As the crowd eagerly watched the spectacle, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning remained positioned on the outskirts. The onlookers couldn¡¯t resist a bit of good-natured teasing.
¡°Primus, are you about to whisper sweet nothings to your wife? We¡¯d love to hear!¡±
¡°Come on, spill the beans!¡±
Blushing, Qin Zhenzhen waved to Su Bin and called out, ¡°Don¡¯te over. Finish your capital tour, and I¡¯ll prepare a delicious meal for you when we return home!¡±
In response, Su Bin shouted, ¡°Of course, thank you, my beloved wife!¡±
¡°All of this is thanks to my wife¡¯s unwavering support. Without her, I wouldn¡¯t be where I am today. She means more to me than life itself!¡±
¡°My dear wife, from now on, my heart belongs to you alone. You are the only woman I will ever marry!¡±
¡°I promise to be faithful and true, to never take a concubine or look upon another with desire. My heart is yours for eternity. Bear witness to my pledge, and if I break it, may I suffer a terrible fate!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen found herself torn betweenughter and exasperation as she confided in Su Ning, ¡°Your third brother can be quite the sentimental fool. Why make such an extravagant public oath?¡±
Su Ning didn¡¯t entirely disagree. ¡°He¡¯s not one to shy away from making a spectacle. ¡±
However, she considered, ¡°I think there¡¯s more to it. He¡¯s letting his true feelings show, and there must be a deeper reason behind it.¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw, aren¡¯t you touched?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled without saying anything. Her heart was filled with sweetness.
The onlookers pped their hands in praise.
¡°Well said, Primus Su!¡± ¡°Primus Su is so affectionate!¡±
¡°Mrs.Su is so happy!¡±
¡°I wish Primus Su and Mrs.Su a blissful life together!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart was sweet, but her face was burning.
Su Bin became more and more flirtatious. ¡°Wife, I want to eat delicious food tonight!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen could only reply sweetly, ¡°Got it. I guarantee that the dishes tonight are all your favorites.¡±
It was their real wedding night. No matter what, they had to celebrate with good wine and meat.
Su Bin smiled in satisfaction.
Su Ning was also grinning from ear to ear.
Even though it seemed like her third brother hadpletely overlooked her presence, she was perfectly fine with it. What she truly hoped for was to see her third brother and third sister-inw start a family as soon as possible, so she could be an aunt and dote on her nephew.
Witnessing the affectionate exchange between Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin, the fifth princess suddenly felt a surge of anger. Su Bin was not only exceptionally handsome and gifted, but he also had a promising future, and he was already her husband. It appeared that the two of them shared a close bond.
Yet, they were disying their love so openly. It was, in her opinion, shameless! They were unting their affection in front of everyone and receiving their blessings. Wasn¡¯t this a deliberate provocation?
Despite being over 17 years old, the fifth princess had struggled to find a husband she truly liked. Her mother seemed more concerned about the family background of the prospective suitors, prioritizing it over their character and appearance. Her mother had been pleased with the young master from the Imperial Teacher¡¯s family, even though he was not yet 20 years old and already had numerous concubines and maids.
She had no desire to wed such a promiscuous and uncontroble man. Yet, her mother scolded her for being too picky, warning that her marriage could no longer be postponed.
In her mother¡¯s eyes, she couldn¡¯t afford to be selective.
She sighed, feeling inferior to a vige girl. She had heard that when Qin Zhenzhen was still a plump vige girl, she had set her sights on Su Bin¡¯s looks and managed to marry him. Qin Zhenzhen had proven to be audacious and thick-skinned, but she had achieved a happy ending..
Chapter 420 - 420: Concubine
Chapter 420: Concubine
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The fifth princess had long grown ustomed to her own arrogance, and her perspective on the world was deeply skewed. She genuinely believed that Qin Zhenzhen had secured a happy ending by ¡°snatching¡± a handsome man. Therefore, she wondered if she could attain a simr oue by pursuing a handsome man herself.
In her view, men were fickle creatures. They might protest and resist initially, but once they tasted the sweetness of affection, their attitudes would change dramatically. The fifth princess considered herself to be attractive and came from a more prestigious background than Qin Zhenzhen.
She reasoned that if Qin Zhenzhen could win Su Bin¡¯s heart, she could do the same. And if Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t capture Su Bin¡¯s affection, then she could certainly try. However, Su Bin¡¯s public deration of hismitment to Qin Zhenzhen had dampened her hopes. Forcibly taking such a man as her husband would only lead to ridicule.
Upon their return to the crown prince¡¯s residence, the fifth princess confronted her brother, the crown prince, with a direct question. ¡°Did you intentionally bring me to see Su Bin?¡±
The Crown Prince inquired, ¡°Do you regret having seen him?¡±
Upon witnessing the expression on her fifth sister¡¯s face, he understood the truth. He recognized that her infatuation with Su Bin had already taken hold.
¡°Why would I regret it?¡±
¡°In that case, I won¡¯t squander my well-meaning gesture.¡±
The fifth princess remained extremely dissatisfied and pressed, ¡°Can you just tell me your intentions?¡±
Her brother exined, ¡°You¡¯re infatuated with Qin Zhenzhen and want her, but she¡¯s already married.¡±
¡°Do you want me to beseech Father to grant Su Bin my hand in marriage and anger Qin Zhenzhen enough for her to leave, leaving him avable for you to pursue?¡± The fifth princess proposed with a sly glint in her eye.
The Crown Prince apuded her cunning n. ¡°You¡¯re quite the strategist!¡± However, the fifth princess wore a displeased expression. ¡°You¡¯re actually plotting against me?¡±
The Crown Prince maintained an innocent demeanor. ¡°This isn¡¯t exactly a scheme. Big Brother was simply being considerate!¡±
¡°Fifth Sister, you have high expectations for your future son-inw. None of the wealthy youths in the capital meet your criteria. Mother is growing increasingly anxious, as is Eldest Brother.¡±
¡°I had already identified a potential Prince Consort for you and was nning to make him the new Primus. But I never anticipated Father¡¯s unconventional choice of Su Bin.
¡°Su Bin is an exceptional talent. Father¡¯s decision to appoint him as the Primus is a testament to his abilities.¡±
¡°I was thinking that if you could genuinely admire him, I would do whatever I could to assist you.¡±
The Crown Prince wasn¡¯t being entirely truthful.
The fifth princess scoffed. ¡°Then assist me in persuading Father to grant Su Bin to me in marriage and let¡¯s see if you have the nerve to do it!¡±
The Crown Prince nodded. ¡°If you genuinely fancy Su Bin, I¡¯ll beseech Father right away!¡±
¡°But before that, you¡¯ll need to pretend to fall ill.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll inform Mother that you¡¯re lovesick, unable to eat or drink, and that life has lost all meaning for you.¡±
¡°The one who unties the knot should be the one who tied it. Only by offering Su
Bin to Fifth Sister as her husband can we save her life.¡¯
The fifth princess sneered. ¡°And what if Su Bin refuses?¡±
Su Bin had promised Qin Zhenzhen in front of so many people. How could he abandon his wife and remarry?
The Crown Princeforted her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that. As long as Father gives the decree, he won¡¯t dare to disobey.¡±
Nheless, the fifth princess continued to address her brother in an usatory manner. ¡°Even if he doesn¡¯t dare to defy the imperial decree, he already has an official wife. Are you suggesting that I be the mistress?¡±
The Crown Prince chuckled and responded, ¡°Fifth Sister, you¡¯re quite naive.
You hold the esteemed position of a princess; you cannot be a mistress.¡±
¡°Even though Su Bin has an official wife, if his official wife were to make a misstep, he wouldn¡¯t have an official wife anymore..¡±
Chapter 421 - 421: Wedding Night
Chapter 421: Wedding Night
I ranstator: yenyee Iranstatlons Editor: yenyee Iranstatlons
The fifth princess couldn¡¯t hide her astonishment. ¡°Are you suggesting that you¡¯re willing to make Qin Zhenzhenpletely vanish?¡±
The Crown Prince attempted to rify, ¡°It¡¯s more about rectifying a mistake than making her disappear entirely.¡±
The n was simple: if the fifth sister feigned illness and implored their mother to persuade their father to allow Su Bin to marry her, they could be equals in status. The Crown Prince was convinced that this move would prompt Qin Zhenzhen to depart, leaving him free to pursue someone else.
For the sake of Qin Zhenzhen, the Crown Prince had employed all his tactics, including his fifth sister.
However, the fifth princess was no fool. Despite her promiscuous lifestyle and her fondness for handsome men, she possessed a clear mind. She could indulge in personal affairs in private, but in public, she had to uphold her noble status.
Had Su Bin not made those public derations, she might have contemted ways to win him over as her husband. But now, she wanted nothing to do with this tangled situation.
¡°Brother Crown Prince, I don¡¯t think the feigned illness scheme will work.¡± ¡°What if Father refuses? I¡¯d be trapped in a dilemma.¡±
¡°Should the word get out, I¡¯d be theughingstock of the entire capital.¡¯
The Crown Prince was frustrated. He had not anticipated that after all his efforts, his fifth sister would remain unyielding.
¡°Do you think Su Bin isn¡¯t worth your investment?¡±
The fifth princess shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s not that he¡¯s not worth my effort. It¡¯s just that his personality doesn¡¯t align with mine.¡±
In front of arge crowd, Su Bin had made a promise to marry only one woman in his lifetime. Was there genuinely such a devoted man in the world, or was he deliberately making this deration for someone¡¯s benefit?
The fifth princess had a sneaking suspicion that when he looked her way, Su Bin had recognized her. If that were the case, his words were likely intended for her ears.
Hmph! If she couldn¡¯t have him, she¡¯d find a way to ruin him!
¡°Brother Crown Prince, I have a cunning n to help you win over Qin
Zhenzhen. ¡±
¡°What¡¯s this clever idea?¡±
¡°Come closer, and I¡¯ll whisper it to you.¡±
The siblings engaged in a lengthy discussion and hatched a devious scheme.
Upon his return home after swimming in the capital, Su Bin was still ted.
¡°Wife, I want a hug. Give me a kiss, and I¡¯ll lift you up!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen yfully scolded him, saying, ¡°You¡¯re such a child!¡±
Nheless, Su Bin had already embraced her. ¡°Wife, I desire to consummate our marriage tonight!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen replied softly, ¡°Of course¡¡±
She had been married to him for a while now, and their rtionship had evolved from resentment to affection. Logically, their marriage should have been consummated long ago.
¡°I¡¯ve already prepared the red candles.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve set up therge red wedding nket, pillows, and freshlyundered sheets. ¡±
¡°I¡¯ve been eagerly anticipating this day for a long time.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s retire to our chamber early tonight.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen offered a reminder, ¡°You¡¯re the new Primus. Many well-wishers will likelye to congratte youter.¡±
¡°I¡¯m concerned that there will be a constant stream of guests tonight.¡±
Su Bin spoke earnestly, ¡°I¡¯m not bothered by them. I¡¯ll see off the guests when the timees. No one can keep us apart. A night of love is worth more than a thousand gold coins.¡±
During the night, a continuous flow of guests arrived.
Among them were neighbors, acquaintances, and officials who proactively came to convey their best wishes.
However, Su Bin had instructed his servants to escort the guests out early in the morning. He imed that he hadn¡¯t slept well the previous night and intended to retire early tonight.
The departing guests couldn¡¯t help but wonder if the new Primus was showing them disrespect.
Little did they anticipate that Su Bin was eager to spend the night consummating his marriage with Qin Zhenzhen.
In the master¡¯s chamber that night, it was certain to be filled with passion, and the sounds of their intimate moments would not go unnoticed.
Even the discreet guards hidden in the shadows blushed and felt their hearts race..
Chapter 422 - 422: Targeted by the Fifth Princess
Chapter 422: Targeted by the Fifth Princess
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The following morning, Qin Zhenzhen opened her eyes and found herself face to face with a handsome visage.
¡°You¡¯re awake so early?¡± she inquired, her cheeks flushing as she recalled their passionate night.
Finally, they were now a genuine couple.
Su Bin beamed and responded, ¡°It¡¯s not that early, really. I just woke up, and the first thing I wanted to do was check if my lovely wife was resting well.¡±
¡°Wife, you¡¯re absolutely stunning. Even in your sleep, you look incredibly beautiful.
Qin Zhenzhen instinctively pulled the nket closer around herself. This guy was being exceptionally affectionate so early in the morning. Did he have ns for a repeat performance?
She had believed she was the experienced one in that regard, but Su Bin turned out to be quite the hidden expert, armed with various tricks.
She had to concede defeat.
Su Bin took hold of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand and whispered, ¡°Wife, how did you feelst night?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen rolled her eyes at him. ¡°Can Ibel you as a refined rogue?¡±
Su Bin hesitated for a moment before grinning. ¡°Who ever said schrs are always refined individuals?¡±
¡°Furthermore, if I turn into a refined gentleman, you might not appreciate it.¡±
He was well aware that his wife intended to assert her dominance in that area. As a man, he couldn¡¯t allow that to happen.
Fortunately, he had spent more than a year diligently honing his physical prowess.
In that moment, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but consider Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s feelings.
¡°Wife, I¡¯ve been away for so long, and I¡¯m a bit anxious.¡±
¡°Tonight, I promise to be a gentleman.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen rolled her eyes at him once more. ¡°You¡¯ll be sleeping in the study tonight.¡¯
Su Bin instantly protested, ¡°Please, no!¡±
¡°Why not take charge tonight?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen burst intoughter. ¡°I won¡¯t be taking charge!¡±
It seemed she enjoyed teasing him!
Su Bin breathed a sigh of relief, recognizing that his wife was just ying around.
Wasn¡¯t this a form of flirtation?
Su Bin¡¯s heart was filled with warmth.
Qin Zhenzhen attempted to rise, but Su Bin stopped her. ¡°Wife, there¡¯s something I need to discuss with you.¡±
¡°Is it something important?¡±
He wasn¡¯t certain if this was the right time. Should he mention it after they got
Truthfully, Qin Zhenzhen was eager to get out of bed, just in case another unexpected urrence took ce.
Nevertheless, Su Bin feltpelled to rify, ¡°Yesterday was a special day for us. I didn¡¯t want to bring it up then and spoil the mood.¡±
¡°But it¡¯s not a trivial matter, and I must inform you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°What is it? Don¡¯t keep me in suspense.¡±
Su Bin exined with a hint of helplessness, ¡°I¡¯m afraid you might find it utterly absurd when I tell you, but I assure you, it¡¯s entirely true.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expression grew serious.
¡°Then don¡¯t keep me in suspense. Tell me, why is the fifth princess targeting you?¡±
Only then did Su Bin reveal, ¡°I¡¯ve drawn the fifth princess¡¯s attention.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°But why would she be interested in you?¡±
Su Bin gazed at Qin Zhenzhen with a steady look. ¡°Let me ask you, do you think your husband is handsome?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was momentarily speechless. Why was this guy being so conceited?
¡°Am I considered talented?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen yfully nudged Su Bin. ¡°Enough with the smugness. Just tell me. Did the fifth princess take an interest in you and want to make you her husband?¡±
¡°But you¡¯re already married. Does she intend for you to divorce and marry her instead?¡±
¡°Or does she n to be your equal spouse?¡±
Within the imperial family, there was a decree that once the prince consort married a princess, he couldn¡¯t take another wife as long as the princess was alive. Additionally, any women who existed prior to the marriage could be quickly dispatched by the princess if she was ruthless enough..
Chapter 423 - 423: Garden Tour
Chapter 423: Garden Tour
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Consequently, any man with a decent background would avoid bing a prince consort, as they wouldn¡¯t want to marry a princess and be an obedient husband unless they were particrly unlucky and the emperor decreed it. No one in their right mind would willingly wed an imperial rtive and submit to their authority.
However, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but wonder why the fifth princess would take an interest in Su Bin, a married man. Why was this fifth princess as deviant as His Highness the Crown Prince?
Su Bin exined, ¡°I¡¯ll share the whole story with vou.¡±
He proceeded to tell Qin Zhenzhen about the fifth princess¡¯s character and how she had set her sights on him, with the connivance of that wretched Crown Prince.
Qin Zhenzhen was astounded. The Crown Prince still harbored wicked intentions toward her. He had even dragged his fifth sister into his schemes.
These two siblings were both peculiar, with no moral boundaries to speak of. They were both maniptive individuals with lurid minds.
¡°So, the sweet words you spoke yesterday were meant for the fifth princess to hear?¡±
¡°Did you intend for the fifth princess to give up on her pursuit?¡±
Su Bin emphasized, ¡°I¡¯ve been wanting to say those words to you for a long time. Those words are genuine and heartfelt.¡±
¡°At the time, I wasn¡¯t certain if that person was the fifth princess, so I decided to express my feelings in front of everyone.¡±
¡°The objective was to make her reconsider her actions.¡±
¡°But I may have underestimated her audacity.¡±
¡°I received a confidential reportst night stating that the fifth princess visited the Crown Prince¡¯s residence. These two mischievous siblings must be hatching a sinister n.¡±
¡°Therefore, I need to warn you that people from the Crown Prince¡¯s residence maye soon and extend an invitation.¡±
¡°There could be various reasons, such as someone in the Crown Prince¡¯s residence falling ill, or the Crown Prince himself bing unwell.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen scoffed.
¡°Even if the Crown Prince is unwell, I can choose not to go. If he can be sick, then I can be sick too.¡±
Su Bin found it amusing. ¡°What ailment is afflicting my wife?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen quipped, ¡°Morning sickness!¡±
Su Bin embraced Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right. Why didn¡¯t I think of that?¡±
¡°But, my dear wife, this lie can easily be exposed.¡±
¡°It seems I have my work cut out for me!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen firmly pushed him away. ¡°You don¡¯t need to work hard. I have my own ways to maintain this facade.¡±
¡°I refuse to believe that a woman with morning sickness like me can¡¯t dissuade his advances!¡±
However, Su Bin immediately adopted a dejected expression. ¡°Wife, pretending to have morning sickness may address your predicament, but it doesn¡¯t resolve mine.¡±
¡°I¡¯m a man, after all. I can¡¯t feign morning sickness.¡± Qin Zhenzhen punched him yfully. ¡°Quit pretending.¡±
¡°I know. You must have a solution!¡±
Su Bin was the book¡¯s antagonist, brimming with cunning. While he had endured much hardship in his youth, after bing the Primus, he was the mastermind against others. How could he let others outsmart him?
The Crown Prince and the Fifth Princess had hatched a devious plot. The Crown Prince would take charge of organizing a garden tour.
Invitations were extended to the children of wealthy families residing in the capital, as well as the top ten candidates from the recent capital examination and their younger siblings.
As the new Primus, Su Bin¡¯s younger siblings had also been invited, including Qin Zhenzhen, his wife.
Su Bin¡¯s younger brother was not in the capital, so only Su Ning would be apanying them. The three of them would attend the event together. The Crown Prince and the Fifth Princess had carefully deliberated their strategy. During the event, they nned to separate Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin. Then, they would employ a cunning ruse to entice Su Bin into a prearranged room and use incense to impair his judgment..
Chapter 424 - 424: Really Good at Pretending
Chapter 424: Really Good at Pretending
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Deliberately, Qin Zhenzhen inquired of Su Bin, ¡°Should we attend? Should I feign morning sickness?¡±
¡°In that case, you can im you need to take care of me.¡±
¡°Perhaps the three of us should skip the event and vex them to no end.¡±
She was well aware that Su Bin was thoroughly acquainted with the siblings¡¯ plot, and she had faith that he could handle it. Her concerns were merely a fleeting worry that things might go awry.
However, Su Bin responded, ¡°You can avoid it temporarily, but not forever.¡± ¡°Pretending to have morning sickness will createplications down the road.¡±
¡°I might as well turn the tables on them.¡±
¡°It¡¯s time they experience the consequences of their actions!¡±
Despite the Crown Prince not being particrly astute, his advisors were all shrewd old hands who excelled at cleaning up his messes. They had even managed to conceal a falsehood as oundish as the previous dynasty¡¯s remnants assassinating the Third Prince. It was evident that those advisors were truly exceptional.
Su Bin might not be able to topple the Crown Prince swiftly, but as long as the vile fifth princess did not tarnish her own reputation, Su Bin was determined that his surname would remain untarnished.
March had arrived, and spring was in full bloom.
In the courtyard bearing the Crown Prince¡¯s name, spring had unfurled its splendor. All the trees sported fresh, vibrant greenery, and various flowers blossomed in a riot of colors.
Noble children from the capital arrived invish carriages, apanied by retinues of guards and maids, stopping at the entrance of the Crown Prince¡¯s courtyard. At the door, guards meticulously scrutinized invitations, making it impossible for uninvited young masters anddies to sneak in.
Additionally, a rule for this garden event stipted that each young master ordy could only be apanied by one attendant. Su Bin, with his threepanions, including two women and a man, had no reason to be concerned about manpower.
Members of the Dragon Phoenix Hall were discreetly interspersed throughout the Crown Prince¡¯s courtyard, blending in seamlessly with the guards and servants.
Once all the invited young masters anddies had gathered, the garden tourmenced officially. Prior to the event¡¯smencement, the Crown Prince delivered a speech, announcing the agenda and rules.
The Crown Prince stood at the main podium, nked by the Third Prince, the Fifth Princess, and the Sixth Princess. Regrettably, the Second Prince had met an untimely demise. The Eldest Princess and the Fourth Princess, already married and rtively mature, opted not to attend.
The remaining princes and princesses were still young and not suitable for such an asion. Most of the invited guests were unmarried individuals of a suitable age, and therge-scale event resembled modern group blind dates in many ways.
At such events, some young masters anddies would develop mutual affection, leading to a subsequent proposal for marriage, creating legendary love stories.
The Crown Prince had a penchant for organizing such gatherings as it facilitated the discovery of a variety of beauties.
If he favored young women with prominent family backgrounds, he might elevate their status to that of secondary or other concubines.
However, if he took an interest in a young woman from a more modest background, she could only enter the Crown Prince¡¯s residence as a beauty.
Notably, not every young woman was willing to enter the Crown Prince¡¯s residence, given his ruthless reputation. Many were reluctant, and some werepelled to enter against their will.
As a result, a few young women, fearing the possibility of being chosen by the Crown Prince, would simply decline participation, citing various reasons to avoid the event altogether.
The Fifth Princess directed her gaze toward Su Bin, her desire surging within her, but her eyes remained cool and aloof, concealing her true thoughts from onlookers.
Qin Zhenzhen clucked her tongue in amazement. The Fifth Princess was an adept at pretense, boasting top-tier acting skills..
Chapter 425 - 425: Garden Tour
Chapter 425: Garden Tour
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
For someone like the Fifth Princess, who often projected an air of aloofness and coldness, it was surprising to discover that she was actually quite lonely and discontented.
Furthermore, she had a penchant for entric behavior. Just like her public persona, appearing distant and regal, yet privately indulging in ndestine affairs.
It was startling to think that an unmarried woman would dare to consort with a gigolo in a brothel, all the while concealing her true identity, seemingly unconcerned about her future husband discovering her secrets. What absurd choices had she made?
Perhaps she felt invulnerable due to her favored status, believing that no consequences would befall her.
The Third Prince nced at Su Bin but couldn¡¯t resist directing a friendly smile toward Su Ning, acknowledging her as his little benefactor. Su Ning returned the smile, her face inadvertently blushing. She lowered her head, avoiding further eye contact with the Third Prince.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but feel a growing sense of concern. It appeared that Su Ning had indeed fallen for his charms. The challenge nowy in whether she could extricate herself from this situation. Were all young women in ancient times so poised and mature, or was Su Ning an exception?
As for the Third Prince, why was he smiling at Su Ning without reason? Didn¡¯t he realize that it might lead to a misunderstanding on her part?
Observing this exchange, Su Bin, holding Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand, noticed her unease. He wanted to reassure her but hesitated, cautious not to say anything that Su Ning might overhear.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head and replied, ¡°I¡¯m perfectly fine.¡±
The first part of the garden tour was dedicated to appreciating the vibrant flowers and sharing poetic verses.
Gender divisions were not imposed, allowing participants to freely organize themselves into groups. However, it was a given that no one would miss the opportunity to join the Crown Prince¡¯s entourage.
In essence, a sizable contingent of young nobles anddies followed the Crown Prince, apanied by the offspring of high-ranking officials, as they explored the entire garden.
As the newly appointed Primus, Su Bin was expected to participate in impromptu poetry recitations. With his abundant talent, this was a task well within his capabilities.
The Crown Prince surveyed the gathering and proposed, ¡°Shall we have our new Primus, Su Bin, kick things off?¡±
The assembled young nobles anddies enthusiastically concurred.
¡°Absolutely!¡±
¡°I¡¯ve heard of the new Primus¡¯s poetic talents. Today¡¯s an opportunity to witness them firsthand!¡±
Su Bin graciously epted and responded, ¡°Thank you for your kind words. I¡¯ll do my best.¡±
With that, he delivered a spontaneouslyposed poem, earning enthusiastic apuse and cheers from the crowd, along with the admiring and affectionate gazes of the youngdies.
These youngdies were well aware of Su Bin¡¯s background. He was not just amoner from a rural background. He was the heir to the Marquis Mansion, the master of the estate, and the current candidate for the Marquis title.
They also knew that it wasn¡¯t a matter of the Old Marquis not recognizing Su Bin. It was Su Bin¡¯s choice to postpone his return to the Marquis Mansion until after passing the examination, to avoid the perception of relying on his family¡¯s status.
A self-reliant and handsome man like him deserved their admiration.
With Su Bin¡¯s achievement as Primus, it was likely that the Old Marquis would soon approach him regarding his return to the Marquis Mansion.
With the Marquis Mansion as his support and his boundless talent, Su Bin¡¯s future appeared to hold limitless possibilities.
Despite Su Bin¡¯s deration that he would spend his life with Qin Zhenzhen, there were still some youngdies who harbored hopes of capturing the affections of such an extraordinary man.
However, Su Bin remained unfazed by the ardent gazes of these hopeful youngdies; his heart belonged exclusively to Qin Zhenzhen..
Chapter 426 - 426: Traveling Boat
Chapter 426: Traveling Boat
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Fifth Princess struggled to maintain her facade, her expression gradually darkening.
Su Bin, I intend to share my quarters with youter.
If you heed my counsel, I may spare you.
Should you defy me, I will ensure your downfall!
A glint of determination flickered in Su Bin¡¯s eyes.
What an audacious woman!
How dare she harbor such intentions towards me? I shall teach her the meaning of ¡®defeat¡¯ today!
The second phase of the garden activity involved a leisurely boat ride to savor the scenic beauty along the courtyard¡¯s river.
There was a separation between men and women on the pleasure boats.
In total, four boats were avable¡ªtwo for the men and two for the women. Since there were more male participants in the garden event, the two male boats were notably more crowded, whereas the female boats offered a more rxed atmosphere.
However, the arrangement also depended on one¡¯s social standing.
On the men¡¯s side, the individuals of higher rank shared a boat with the Crown Prince and the Third Prince.
On the women¡¯s side, the more prestigious attendees were on the same boat as the Fifth Princess and the Sixth Princess. Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning apanied the Fifth Princess due to Su Bin¡¯s status as the new Primus.
As they boarded the vessel, Su Bin silently conveyed a message to Qin Zhenzhen, urging her to be cautious.
In response, Qin Zhenzhen used her eyes to assure him, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Su Ning and I will handle things.¡±
She had anticipated that the Fifth Princess might cause trouble and was prepared to stay vignt.
The Fifth Princess stood little chance of sess with her devious ns, mainly because everyone aboard the cruise ship, except for the male crew operating the vessel, consisted of delicate youngdies. No servants or maids were allowed on the ship.
If the Fifth Princess intended to cause harm, her most likely avenue would be through the food. Another possibility was to manipte these youngdies into pushing someone into the water. However, she had no reason to fear either option.
Her Spirit Spring Water possessed remarkable healing properties, capable of neutralizing all poisons. Furthermore, her martial prowess was quite formidable; even ten strong men couldn¡¯t match her. She wouldn¡¯t take these delicatedies seriously, not even if a hundred of them confronted her.
Taking precautions, Qin Zhenzhen discreetly handed Su Ning a pill.
¡°Su Ning, this pill is to prevent seasickness. Please take it.¡±
Su Ning softly replied, ¡°Third Sister-inw, have you forgotten? I no longer get seasick!¡±
She continued, ¡°Moreover, this cruise ship is very stable. There¡¯s no way I¡¯ll faint.
Previously, she used to experience seasickness, feeling dizzy and nauseous as she watched the water flow beneath the ship. However, her third sister-inw¡¯s pill had effectively resolved her seasickness.
Qin Zhenzhen exined in a hushed tone, ¡°Third Sister-inw hasn¡¯t forgotten that you won¡¯t get seasick, but taking the pill is an extrayer of security.¡±
¡°We¡¯re on the same boat as the princess, and if you happen to vomit and inadvertently offend her, it could lead to serious consequences.¡±
¡°I see.¡±
Su Ning grasped the wisdom in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words and promptly swallowed the pill.
Qin Zhenzhen emphasized, ¡°Once we¡¯re on the ship, stay close to me. Don¡¯t venture off on your own.¡±
Despite being the target of the Fifth Princess¡¯s intentions, Qin Zhenzhen remained vignt about Su Ning¡¯s safety.
Su Ning nodded, replying, ¡°I understand.¡±
She believed her third sister-inw was concerned that she might inadvertently offend the princess or another high-statusdy.
The cruise ship offered an array of fruits and snacks, but the young heiresses present were all rather reserved and hesitant to partake.
Qin Zhenzhen, too, refrained from indulging.
The youngdies gathered at the side of the ship, gripping the railings while they admired the surrounding scenery. They marveled at the picturesque views and cast asional nces towards the neighboring cruise ship, upied by the young masters apanying His Highness the Crown Prince. These young men were notably distinguished and among the potential suitors for these nobledies.
Perhaps, as fate would have it, some of these prospective matches would be
forged during this cruise..
Chapter 427 - 427: Leave Immediately
Chapter 427: Leave Immediately
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The riverside scenery within the royal courtyard was undeniably splendid.
Qin Zhenzhen guided Su Ning, leading her to a quieter spot where they leaned against the railing to appreciate the view. Since they were unfamiliar with the youngdies from the capital, and Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t particrly keen on initiating conversations, they opted for a location with fewer people towards the stern of the ship.
¡°Third Sister-inw, look at those gorgeous flowers on the rockery. What kind of colorful flowers are those?¡± Su Ning inquired.
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not certain about the specific type, but they appear to be ornamental flowers bred for pure aesthetic pleasure. Their purpose is simply to delight the eyes.¡±
She felt a touch of admiration within, surprised to find such a romantic touch in the ancient world. The people here even knew how to cultivate and arrange colorful ornamental flowers. Nevertheless, such romantic endeavors appeared reserved for the wealthy, unlike the modern world where they adorned public areas.
Su Ning nodded thoughtfully and whispered, ¡°Do you ever wonder if the royal family members have too much time on their hands?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°What¡¯s on your mind? Don¡¯t you think it looks beautiful?¡±
Su Ning responded with determination, ¡°Indeed, it¡¯s beautiful. My concern isn¡¯t about those who tend to these flowers; it¡¯s about the excessive extravagance of the royal family. This courtyard alone features pavilions, trees, flowers, imitation mountains, artificial rivers, and man-madekes. Imagine the resources andbor required for all this.¡±
She continued with earnestness, ¡°Your Majesty, do you know how manymoners in the countryside struggle to find enough to eat and proper clothing to wear?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen leaned in to whisper to Su Ning, ¡°What you see here is just the tip of the iceberg. When you visit the pce, you¡¯ll truly grasp the meaning of luxury.¡±
She then cautioned, ¡°But remember, we mustn¡¯t discuss this here.¡±
Su Ning felt a hint of embarrassment and replied, ¡°You¡¯re right; I almost forgot!¡±
ncing around, she was relieved to find no one in their immediate vicinity.
¡°I promise, Third Sister-inw, I won¡¯t utter a word,¡± Su Ning assured her. Qin Zhenzhen nodded and added, ¡°As the saying goes, ¡®troublees from the mouth.¡¯ If you have any questions, save them for when we¡¯re home.¡±
Su Ning agreed, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll remember that.¡±
Just then, two young heiresses approached and respectfully greeted Qin
Zhenzhen.
¡°Are you Mrs. Qin Zhenzhen, the wife of the new Primus?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen reciprocated the greeting, affirming, ¡°Yes, I am.¡±
The sincere and clear-eyed gazes of these two youngdies suggested that they had approached her out of genuine curiosity rather than being sent to cause trouble.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s initial apprehension eased, and she chuckled to herself. Despite her confidence, she still found herself on edge, perhaps due to her concern for Su Ning.
¡°Hello, Mrs. Su, I¡¯m¡
Before the two youngdies could introduce themselves, an arrogant voice interrupted them.
¡°I thought the stern would be less crowded, but it¡¯s still quite noisy.¡±
The source of thisment was none other than the Fifth Princess. The Sixth Princess stood beside her, surrounded by a group of youngdies.
The Fifth Princess¡¯s words clearly conveyed her disdain for Qin Zhenzhen and the others, as if they were inconveniencing her. Ironically, they had arrived at the stern before she did.
Qin Zhenzhen was left baffled. Was the Fifth Princess gearing up for a direct confrontation with her?
She harbored no reservations; if the Fifth Princess initiated any hostilities, Qin Zhenzhen would not hold back in response. If the Fifth Princess dared to push anyone into the water, she¡¯d be the one finding herself in the river, bing a meal for the turtles!
Before Qin Zhenzhen could voice her thoughts, the two youngdies who had been exchanging pleasantries with her panicked and swiftly offered apologies to the Fifth Princess.
¡°I apologize, Fifth Princess. We¡¯ll depart right away..¡±
Chapter 428 - 428: Use Any Tricks
Chapter 428: Use Any Tricks
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As the two young heiresses prepared to depart, they found themselves halted by the Fifth Princess.
¡°May I inquire why both of you are in such a hurry to leave?¡± she inquired.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but silently criticize the Fifth Princess for her curious behavior. Hadn¡¯t she considered their previous conversation too noisy? While these two heiresses tactfully chose to withdraw, she now pretended to inquire about their departure.
The two youngdies, a bit frightened, one of them mustered the courage to respond. ¡°We thought¡ we might be disturbing the Princess¡¯s tranquility.¡±
The Fifth Princess immediately adopted a more serious expression.
¡°You might have misunderstood me.¡± ¡°We¡¯re all sharing the same boat, and there¡¯s no need for you to leave!¡±
¡°Do you think I¡¯m being unreasonable?¡±
The two heiresses grew even more apprehensive, frantically shaking their heads. ¡°No, no, Fifth Princess. We¡¯ve never thought that way¡¡±
¡°We¡ we won¡¯t leave.¡±
The Fifth Princess¡¯s demeanor softened slightly.
¡°That¡¯s more like it!¡±
¡°But your hasty retreat has disappointed me.¡±
¡°You both hail from prominent families in the capital. Why don¡¯t you have more confidence in yourselves?¡±
¡°Do you feel inadequate to stay in mypany?¡±
The two youngdies blushed in response to the reprimand.
¡°Enough, let¡¯s cease the chatter. I have no time to waste on this,¡± the Fifth Princess dered.
¡°Despite your upbringing in the capital, you don¡¯t possess the boldness of those who hail from the countryside.¡±
¡°Take a look at Mrs. Su and Miss Su, they remain unperturbed in my presence.¡± ¡°Not a flicker of emotion.
The Fifth Princess¡¯s words were clearly audible to everyone. She was, in fact, chastising Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning for not adhering to proper etiquette.
When she had first arrived, she had not promptly bowed to the princess, and the Fifth Princess had just realized it. Qin Zhenzhen found it rather amusing that the Fifth Princess had finally be incensed.
Nheless, she wouldn¡¯t be ensnared by the Fifth Princess¡¯s provocations. She had never shown fear in the presence of the Emperor or the Empress Dowager; what chance did this immature Fifth Princess stand?
Qin Zhenzhen responded calmly, ¡°Fifth Princess, you were correct earlier.
Given that we share this boat, there¡¯s no reason for us to disrupt one another.¡± ¡°And thus, my younger sister and I have no intention of leaving this spot.¡±
¡°I had indeed nned to extend my greetings to you. However, you were engaged in conversation with the two youngdies, so I refrained from intervening, as it would be impolite.¡±
The Fifth Princess couldn¡¯t fault Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s response and harbored no intentions of making things difficult for her. The real performance was yet toe!
¡°Remarkable indeed, the wife of the new Primus. So articte and confident, far surpassing these youngdies,¡± the Fifth Princessmented.
Still, Qin Zhenzhen maintained herposure. ¡°You are too kind, Fifth Princess.¡±
Ha, she was ready. If you have any schemes, go ahead and use them.
The group of youngdies who had been ttering the Fifth Princess followed her to the stern to savor the scenery. They took turns offering praise andpliments for the Fifth Princess.
Qin Zhenzhen experienced an unpleasant shiver down her spine. She could no longer tolerate the sycophantic chatter.
She held Su Ning¡¯s hand and announced, ¡°Fifth Princess, Sixth Princess, anddies, my sister and I wish to explore the other side of the cruise ship to admire the scenery. We shall take our leave.¡±
In response, the Fifth Princess proposed, ¡°Mrs. Su, I actually have a matter to discuss with you. Why don¡¯t we go there together? It¡¯ll be more peaceful.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen agreed, ¡°Certainly.¡±
Regardless of what schemes the Fifth Princess might have in mind, Qin Zhenzhen was resolute in preventing her sess. In this setting, aboard the cruise ship, with numerous youngdies present, the Fifth Princess wouldn¡¯t dare to openly harm her..
Chapter 429 - 429: Something Worse Has Happened
Chapter 429: Something Worse Has Happened
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The Fifth Princess directed her attention towards Su Ning. ¡°Miss Su, perhaps it¡¯s best if you stepped away for a moment.¡±
She and the Crown Prince had devised a devious scheme. She had initially feigned a reason to consult Qin Zhenzhen and led her to the other side of the cruise ship.
Their plot entailed having a youngdy beckon the Fifth Princess away. Then, she would arrange for two youngdies skilled in martial arts to approach and seemingly collide with Qin Zhenzhen. The instigators would feign grievances and initiate a dispute with Qin Zhenzhen, ultimately pushing her into the river.
Once Qin Zhenzhen was in the water, the Crown Prince¡¯s guards, strategically positioned, would leap into action to rescue her. During the rescue process, these guards would take the opportunity to disrobe Qin Zhenzhen, preferably exposing her flesh.
Subsequently, the Crown Prince, who was on the boat ahead, would dive into the water to retrieve Qin Zhenzhen. In public, he would demonstrate physical contact with her.
The Fifth Princess¡¯s objective was to tarnish Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s reputation and create a sense of aversion in Su Bin. It was more straightforward to push Qin Zhenzhen overboard by herself, given that she could disguise the act as an unfortunate ident.
Having Su Ning presentplicated matters, making it more challenging to push both of them into the water. With Qin Zhenzhen having an additional ally, the likelihood of idents had increased.
Hence, the Fifth Princess sought to have Su Ning removed from the situation.
However, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s response surprised the Fifth Princess. ¡°May I ask, Fifth Princess, is there a specific medical matter you wish to discuss? Is it of such a private nature that no one else should be privy to it?¡±
¡°My area of expertise lies in medical skills. Are you in need of consultation regarding a physical ailment?¡±
Allowing Su Ning to leave her side was out of the question for Qin Zhenzhen. If the Fifth Princess and her entourage had any intentions of harming Su Ning, it was Su Ning who would bear the brunt of it.
Intrigued by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s remarks, the youngdies nearby pricked up their ears. Her words seemed to imply that there might be a medical issue concerning the Fifth Princess, one too delicate for the imperial physician to address, hence the consultation with Qin Zhenzhen.
Though clearly irked, the Fifth Princess had no choice but to rify, ¡°It¡¯s not a private matter. I¡¯m inquiring about the process of crafting pills using the Immortal Pill.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded and added, ¡°In that case, there should be no problem with my sister apanying us. In truth, my sister is my disciple, and if you have questions, she might be able to provide answers.¡±
Following this, Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°I had initially been concerned about leaving my sister alone. She hails from a rural background and may not be aware of certain etiquette. If she inadvertently offends a noble person, it could lead to trouble.¡±
¡°Fifth Princess, I trust you won¡¯t object to my little sister apanying us, will you?¡±
At this point, the Fifth Princess had no choice but to reluctantly agree. ¡°Very well, let¡¯s proceed together.¡±
Well, if you¡¯re so eager to be together, we can all head into the water together!
So, the Fifth Princess, Qin Zhenzhen, and Su Ning headed to the other side of the cruise ship. The views here weren¡¯t as captivating, which resulted in fewer passengers.
Qin Zhenzhen was prepared for the Fifth Princess to make her move when another youngdy rushed over for assistance. ¡°Fifth Princess, we have a problem. Miss Lin and Miss Wang are on the verge of a fight!¡±
The Fifth Princess scolded, ¡°Why must those two be so troublesome!¡±
¡°I apologize, Mrs. Su. I need to attend to this matter. Please ensure there¡¯s no physical altercation. It would be problematic if someone falls into the river. Later, you might have to exin that I didn¡¯t supervise them properly.¡±
With those words, the Fifth Princess paid little heed to her image, gathering her skirts with both hands and hurrying away.
Qin Zhenzhen pondered the Fifth Princess¡¯s intentions and soon noticed that the iron railing she was standing by appeared to have been tampered with.
She quickly grasped the sinister plot behind the Fifth Princess¡¯s actions.
The Fifth Princess intended for someone to forcibly shove her against the railing. If the railing had been tampered with, it would give way, causing her to plummet into the river.
And the subsequent events could be far more dire..
Chapter 430 - 430: Consecutive Poison Plans
Chapter 430 - 430: Consecutive Poison ns
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At that moment, the two youngdies advanced steadily toward Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning.
One of thedies purposely collided with Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning.
But Qin Zhenzhen would not let her seed. She swiftly evaded the collision, pulling Su Ning along with her. With a deft move, she extended her leg and hooked the foot of thedy who had bumped into them.
Thedy couldn¡¯t regain her bnce and was propelled toward the tampered railing.
With a resounding crack, the weakened railing gave way.
The youngdy was taken aback. She realized she had failed to harm them and had instead fallen into Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s trap.
Facing an imminent fall into the river, she hastily clutched the clothes of the youngdy next to her.
As expected, both youngdies tumbled into the river simultaneously.
By that point, Qin Zhenzhen had already grasped Su Ning¡¯s hand and raised her voice, eximing, ¡°Someone has fallen into the water! Help, quick!¡±
Su Ning observed the unfolding scene and quicklyprehended the situation. She now understood why her Third Sister-inw had been so adamant about her staying by her side since boarding the ship. It had be evident that someone intended to harm them.
The perpetrator was undoubtedly the Fifth Princess.
But what was the Fifth Princess¡¯s motive?
The youngdy beside her also raised her voice in rm. ¡°Someone has fallen into the water! Please, save them!¡±
The guards, who had been stationed on the riverbank in readiness, immediately leaped into action to initiate the rescue.
Not far away, the Fifth Princess whirled around, seething with anger.
¡°Why didn¡¯t she fall in?¡±
The person who was supposed to tumble into the river remained untouched, while the one who shouldn¡¯t have fallen ended up taking the plunge.
Unaware of the events that had transpired, the Fifth Princess believed that Qin Zhenzhen had merely been lucky and had not realized that her scheme had been exposed.
Rushing back, the Fifth Princess interrogated Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Mrs. Su, what just happened?¡±
Many other youngdies followed the Fifth Princess.
¡°I don¡¯t know what urred, ¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied.
She continued, ¡°The twodies were engrossed in conversation a moment ago and weren¡¯t paying attention. They identally collided with the railing. When that section of the railing gave way with a snap, they both fell into the river. I tried to prevent it, but they fell too quickly.¡±
The Fifth Princess clenched her teeth in frustration, her rage intensifying, and she was on the verge of uttering a curse.
Now, it was apparent that Qin Zhenzhen had seen through their plot, a fact discernible from her eyes.
At that moment, the guards had sessfully rescued the twodies.
Upon observing their disheveled appearance, a fierce glint appeared in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s eyes.
The clothing of the two submerged youngdies had been torn open, exposing half of their fair chests. It was evident that the guards had deliberately ripped their garments.
Without instructions, these guards would not have dared to carry out such actions.
The Fifth Princess¡¯s intentions went beyond pushing Qin Zhenzhen into the water. Her sinister scheme also entailed tearing her clothes and tarnishing her reputation.
¡°That¡¯s not right!¡± Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mind raced as she considered a troubling possibility.
When the two youngdies had plunged into the river, she distinctly saw the Crown Prince hurry towards the stern. It appeared as if he intended to jump in to rescue them, but he had refrained.
The reason became clear to her: he had recognized that it wasn¡¯t her who had fallen into the water, so he had changed his mind.
This revtion unveiled a series of sinister plots. If she had tumbled into the water, the n was for the guards to tear her clothes off first. Then, the Crown
Prince would purportedly save her and carry her ashore, creating the impression that they had been in close physical contact.
But that wasn¡¯t all. It was likely that the Crown Prince would have taken advantage of the situation and acted inappropriately while purportedly saving her..
Chapter 431 - 431: Misunderstanding the Focus
Chapter 431 - 431: Misunderstanding the Focus
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The discovery of the ident brought the four boats to a halt. They docked along the shore, allowing everyone to disembark.
The two distressed youngdies, their faces veiled with tears, knew full well the implications of having their clothing forcibly torn and exposed before being carried ashore by a stranger.
Their reputations were irreparably tarnished, and the prospects of securing a good marriage were forever dashed. Their already modest family background now faced even greater challenges. Families of even modest prominence would recoil from allying themselves with women who had marred their reputations in such a manner.
Furthermore, should the Fifth Princess hold them responsible for their inability to execute such a straightforward scheme, their family would undoubtedly face repercussions. Retribution from the Empress¡¯s family, the wealthiest and most influential, was not to be taken lightly. Offending them was bound to result in severe consequences.
The brothers of the two youngdies bore expressions of distress and embarrassment, well aware of their sisters¡¯ public humiliation. They hurriedly removed their outer garments and wrapped thedies securely.
Unaware of the full story, they were eager to investigate the incident¡¯s root cause.
¡°What happened here?¡±
¡°How did you end up against the railing?¡±
Even if it were an idental collision with the railing, it should not have been enough to break it. A brand-new cruise ship would not possess corroded iron railings. Thus, it appeared highly likely that the breakage was the result of deliberate sabotage.
The cruise ship, however, was under the Crown Prince¡¯s ownership, which meant that any issue with the railing was inherently his responsibility. Still, they were but insignificant individuals and did not dare to provoke the Crown Prince directly. Thus, they redirected their frustrations towards Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning.
¡°Mrs. Su, Miss Su, a passenger on our boat ims they witnessed you pushing my sister into the river!¡±
Unperturbed, Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°Why would I have any reason to push them into the river?¡±
¡°She said you grew upset after she identally bumped into you, and that¡¯s why you pushed them into the water!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen remained unfazed. ¡°What an interesting coincidence! Your sister happened to choose a spot where the railing was damaged, and she identallv collided with me.¡±
The surrounding onlookers murmured amongst themselves. It did indeed seem like an extraordinary stroke of luck.
¡°What if I were to tell you that your sister was well aware of the broken railing in that location and intentionally bumped into me, aiming to knock me into the river? Fortunately, I reacted quickly and managed to pull my sister out of harm¡¯s way. They couldn¡¯t restrain themselves and fell into the water.¡± ¡°They¡¯ve conspired to harm both me and themselves. Do you believe me?¡± The brothers of the two youngdies were incensed by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s statements.
¡°Mrs. Su, you¡¯re making baseless usations!¡±
¡°My sister bears no grudge against you. Why would she push you into the river?¡±
¡°Evidence is essential in everything. If you cannot provide a reasonable exnation, we will not let you off!¡±
With a smile, Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°You are absolutely correct; evidence is crucial.¡±
¡°Did anyone witness me pushing your sister?¡±
¡°You seek to use me based solely on your sister¡¯s one-sided ount. That is quite foolish!¡±
¡°Furthermore, it appears you have missed the primary issue here.¡±
¡°The heart of this matter does not seem to revolve around who pushed whom, but rather why the railing on this pleasure boat broke so easily..¡±
Chapter 432 - 432: Two More Women in the Crown Prince Residence
Chapter 432: Two More Women in the Crown Prince Residence
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Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s words held undeniable truth. Those around her desired the same, yet none dared to voice their thoughts openly.
Now that Qin Zhenzhen had spoken, a hushed discussion enveloped the group, the air thick with unspoken words. Conversations were reduced to mere whispers.
As the situation threatened to spiral out of control, the Crown Prince intervened.
¡°There¡¯s no need for further arguments. This mishap is my responsibility.¡± His words brought an immediate hush upon the gathering.
The brothers of the twodies turned expectant gazes towards the Crown Prince, yearning for a satisfactory exnation.
These young masters were not as naive as they seemed. They could already discern the likely reason for the cruise ship¡¯s broken railing.
Their sister had rarely interacted with the fifth princess, but their sudden closeness in the past two days had raised suspicions. It was apparent their sister had been manipted by the fifth princess.
The motives behind the fifth princess¡¯s actions also puzzled these individuals. Being over seventeen, it was surprising that she had yet to choose an imperial son-inw. Su Bin, the new Primus, had demonstrated remarkable talent and literary prowess, achieving the tenth ce in the capital examination.
Given his abilities, it was no surprise that the fifth princess was interested in him. To achieve her goal, eliminating Mrs. Su was necessary. Humiliating their sisters was a means to tarnish Mrs. Su¡¯s reputation, hoping to drive a wedge between her and Su Bin, ultimately leading to their separation and divorce.
Mrs. Su¡¯s fortune, unfortunately, seemed to defy all odds. What was truly unfortunate was that their younger sisters had be pawns in the fifth princess¡¯s game.
The audacity of the fifth princess¡¯s actions strongly implied that the Crown Prince supported her in this endeavor.
Given the Crown Prince¡¯s stance, it appeared he intended to clean up the aftermath for the fifth princess, as any thorough investigation would inevitably implicate him.
As expected, His Highness the Crown Prince initiated self-reflection.
¡°I invited all of you to the garden and should have ensured a range of safety measures, including a thorough inspection and repair of the cruise ship¡¯s safety equipment.¡±
¡°However, after giving the order, I regrettably failed to personally inspect it, leading to the neglect of the damaged railing by those responsible.¡±
¡°This negligence ultimately resulted in the ident, causing the twodies to fall into the water.¡¯
¡°Thus, Mrs. Su is right; this incident transcends questions of me and rests squarely on my shoulders.¡±
¡°My guards, while well-intentioned, may have acted too hastily during the rescue, inadvertently neglecting their duty to protect thedies¡¯ privacy.¡±
¡°Everyone is aware that individuals who fall into the water often act out of panic, resorting to desperate measures to cling to anything they can.
identally tearing clothing is a consequence of their panicked actions.¡±
¡°Regardless of how much we debate and argue, we cannot undo the mistakes that led to this tragic event.¡±
¡°I bear a deep sense of responsibility for the tarnished reputation of these two youngdies and the potential impact on my future search for inws.¡±
¡°Topensate for this loss, I am prepared to wee bothdies into the royal residence.¡±
¡°What?¡±
To everyone¡¯s astonishment, the Crown Prince made an unexpected decision in the pursuit of reconciliation.
This was certainly an unforeseen turn of events for Qin Zhenzhen.
Although it was an unconventional solution, the Crown Prince¡¯s decision could offer the best resolution for all parties involved. It would serve to silence the affecteddies and provide a satisfactory exnation to their fathers and brothers..
Chapter 433 - 433: Regret
Chapter 433: Regret
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Such an oue might indeed be the best course of action, and the brothers of the twodies had no objections whatsoever.
To be inws with His Highness the Crown Prince was a dream realized by few. They had undoubtedly benefited greatly from this unexpected turn of events.
While the Crown Prince hadn¡¯t explicitly promised any specific position for their sister, his assurance to wee her into the royal residence was more than sufficient.
It was worth noting that the mere fact that their younger sisters had the opportunity to travel alongside the fifth princess and the others was due to the fifth princess exercising her special privileges. Given their family¡¯s rtively modest standing, bing part of the Crown Prince¡¯s household was already a remarkable prospect.
In the future, when the Crown Prince ascended the throne, titles would be conferred upon all his women. Those who received his favor might even be elevated to the esteemed rank of Noble Consort.
The prospect of bearing a son and a daughter would further enhance their standing, with the son being a prince and the daughter a princess, granting them the prestigious status of imperial uncle-inw. This would not only ensure wealth and privilege for their sister but would also bring substantial benefits to the brothers.
However, only the twodies themselves were aware that entering the Crown Prince¡¯s residence might mark the beginning of a challenging chapter in their lives.
The royal residence was home to a multitude of beauties, and they themselves hailed from unremarkable backgrounds andcked striking beauty. Standing out among the crowd of morous women would be a formidable challenge.
Moreover, their initial mission had failed. Fearing the exposure of his own scheme, the Crown Prince had opted to marry them into his household as a means to secure their silence.
Upon entering the Crown Prince¡¯s residence, the grim reality was that they might not even have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Crown Prince.
There was also the unsettling possibility that the Crown Prince, having fulfilled his purpose with them, would disregard their presence and leave them to fend for themselves within the sprawling royal household. The mere contemtion of this scenario brought even more profound sorrow to the twodies.
Their misfortune was almost unbearable. Among the numerous youngdies hailing from humble backgrounds, why had the fifth princess chosen them as her pawns?
Back when the fifth princess had approached them, they had briefly considered resisting her advances. However, the fear of her potential revenge coupled with the irresistible allure of the rewards she dangled before them made them feel powerless to refuse.
The fifth princess had promised that after aplishing her objectives, she would seek her Imperial Father¡¯s blessing for their marriages. She had guaranteed that they would be able to marry the men of their choosing.
Coerced and tempted by her offers, they had felt there was no room to resist. Fate had dictated their path, leaving them with no alternative.
¡°Are you not willing to be residents of the Crown Prince¡¯s household?¡± The Crown Prince frowned, evidently displeased.
Given their unremarkable appearances and modest backgrounds, these two youngdies should have been ted to hear of his intention to marry them into the royal residence. Why were they crying? What did this signify?
Could it be that they believed he was forcing them into a situation they resented?
The twodies quickly regained theirposure and wiped away their tears, feigning shyness.
¡°Your Highness, we¡ we are genuinely eager to be part of the Crown Prince¡¯s residence.¡±
¡°These tears,¡± one of them stammered, ¡°they¡¯re tears of joy.¡±
At this juncture, there was no alternative. They had to agree to enter the Crown Prince¡¯s residence and employ every means possible to secure even a fraction of the Crown Prince¡¯s affection.
The thought that could potentially change their fate was if, by some stroke of fortune, they became pregnant with the child of His Highness the Crown Prince.
¡°It¡¯s fortunate that you are content with this decision. Return to your residence and take some rest,¡± the Crown Prince said calmly.
¡°In a few days, I shall arrange for a suitable day to have you formally wed into the Crown Prince¡¯s household.¡±
The Crown Prince¡¯s words were devoid of any discernible emotion, and he didn¡¯t even cast a nce in the direction of the twodies..
Chapter 434 - 434: Very Vicious
Chapter 434: Very Vicious
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With the issue of the twodies falling into the water resolved, the Crown Prince breathed a sigh of relief, yet beneath the surface, his anger simmered.
The two youngdies handpicked by the fifth princess were anything but delicate. Their physical strength and arm power undoubtedly ranked them at the top of this group of youngdies.
Initially, they had presumed that it would be a foolproof n for these two robust individuals to inadvertently collide with Qin Zhenzhen. Even if she reacted swiftly and had the good fortune to evade their collision, they shouldn¡¯t have hurled themselves against the unstable railing knowingly.
The Crown Prince had never heard of Qin Zhenzhen having any knowledge of martial arts. How had she managed to evade their charge so swiftly?
He recalled his father¡¯s words, iming that an esteemed monk with profound insights into the Dao had secretly deduced the course of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s life, concluding that she was a woman favored by even the heavens themselves.
She seemed destined to bring prosperity to her husband and family, exemplifying how she could elevate the Su family from the brink of suffering.
Qin Zhenzhen had the power to better her own situation, and anyone attempting to harm her would invariably harm themselves in the process. The case of the Jiang family was a ring testament to this fact.
With Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s straightforward andpelling evidence, she had sessfully exposed the Jiang family¡¯s treacherous plot, along with the Eighth Imperial Uncle. She had employed rumors to force her opponents into revealing their scheme prematurely.
In stark contrast, her side had emerged unscathed and without the loss of a single soldier.
Apart from Su Bin¡¯s well-devised n, a significant factor contributing to the situation was undoubtedly her remarkable stroke of luck.
Contemting this reality, the Crown Prince was caught in a dilemma.
His father¡¯s words were far from unfounded. Instances like this one, where those attempting to harm her ended up harming themselves, were undeniable proof of her fortuitous streak.
Although he and Fifth Sister had managed to escape unscathed this time, the fact remained
that they had not directly orchestrated these events. If he were to plot against Su Bin in the future, his Fifth Sister would take matters into her own hands. And if she failed, he feared she might suffer the same fate as these two unfortunatedies.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s influence extended not only to her own well-being but also to her husband¡¯s. Essentially, anyone attempting to harm her husband could also find themselves ensnared in her good fortune.
His Highness the Crown Prince wrestled with his conscience, wondering if it might be best to abandon this n. After all, Fifth Sister was his flesh and blood.
However, he swiftly dismissed that thought.
This was an opportunity that might nevere again¡ªthe chance to eliminate Su Bin.
It had been no small feat to convince his Fifth Sister to partake in this scheme. He couldn¡¯t afford to give up so easily.
In the end, every man was for himself.
Su Bin wielded significant power, but he couldn¡¯t be controlled. Thus, the only option was to undermine Su Bin.
Now that Su Bin had earned their father¡¯s favor, the most effective means of harming him was to tarnish his character. If it were exposed that Su Bin had assaulted ady during the garden tour, his reputation would be utterly ruined.
Even divine intervention would struggle to save him.
He and Fifth Sister had already devised their n. At the uing banquet, he would lead Su Bin to a private room, employing certain incense to manipte his demeanor.
This kind of western region enchanting thing could quickly bring people to the abyss of desire.
After Su Bin fell for it, Fifth Sister would forcefully sleep with him to satisfy her craving for sleeping with handsome men.
Then, they would ce a youngdy who had already lost her virginity with Su Bin, causing the scene of the two of them having sex.
Then, he and his fifth sister would bring people to catch them in the act.
A rich youngdy who had been vited had to have a noble status.
The higher the status, the greater Su Bin¡¯s crime. It would be best if he was directly executed!
The more the Crown Prince thought about it, the more vicious he became.
In the end, he did not even care about the fifth princess¡¯s safety..
Chapter 435 - 435: Scheme
Chapter 435: Scheme
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Originally, the third segment of the garden tour was meant to be a talent show. However, due to the unfortunate cruise ship ident that had left the Crown Prince and the fifth princess in a somber mood, the third segment was canceled. The tour went directly from the second to the fourth segment.
The fourth section was dedicated to a grand banquet, and the Crown Prince had invested considerable effort and resources to make it a memorable asion. In his pursuit of excellence, he had spared no expense and procured a generous supply of seafood. As a result, today¡¯s banquet was often referred to as a ¡°seafood banquet.¡±
Transporting seafood in ancient times was notably more challenging than in the modern era. Today, we benefit from efficient cold chain transportation methods. However, in ancient times, people had developed their own form of ¡°refrigeration. ¡±
Ancient individuals had serendipitously discovered that adding saltpeter, used in gunpowder production, to water could cause the water to chill significantly and even freeze. This discovery led to the creation of a sealed container designed for transporting seafood. This container had twoyers with a three-inch gap in between. Seafood was ced in the innerpartment, the gap was filled with water, and disinfectants were added. The entire container was then wrapped in thick fabric to inste it. This ¡°homemade fridge¡± effectively preserved seafood for a considerable duration, although it required daily maintenance for extended journeys.
The transportation process demanded a significant allocation ofbor and resources to transport a substantial quantity of seafood.
The banquet was meticulously organized, with the guests divided into two groups: male and female, each hosted in the north and south side halls, respectively.
The men and women were immersed in the festivities, momentarily forgetting about the mishap on the cruise ship.
While the women enjoyed themselves, it was expected that they maintain a certain level of decorum. They were required to uphold their genteel and poised image asdies well-versed in etiquette and the broader social context.
The men, on the other hand, often disyed a more presumptuous attitude. Especially after indulging in alcohol, some of the young masters began to reveal their true natures. Conversations became boisterous and self-congrattory, with a few bold individuals teasing the maids.
The fifth segment of the garden tour, scheduled to ur after the banquet, promised free time for all. However, before the banquet concluded, the Crown Prince dispatched a messenger to summon Su Bin, citing an urgent matter he wished to discuss.
The reason for this invitation mirrored the one used for plotting against Qin Zhenzhen. Su Bin was well aware of the Crown Prince and the fifth princess¡¯s scheme, yet he maintained a facade of ignorance.
Upon arriving at a secluded room, Su Bin encountered an alluring fragrance from the Western Region. However, he had consumed a pill given to him in advance by Qin Zhenzhen, rendering the Western Region Enchanting Fragrance ineffective.
Nheless, Su Bin feigned disorientation.
At that moment, the fifth princess entered the room with an air of pride. Her eyes gleamed with anticipation as she desired to pounce on Su Bin and im his treasure.
Observing the fifth princess¡¯s eager demeanor, Su Bin felt a wave of nausea, but he suppressed it and, instead, pretended to have lost his wits. He lunged toward the fifth princess.
¡°Zhenzhen, my dearest Zhenzhen, you¡¯re here! I¡¯ve missed you so much!¡±
With the fifth princess eagerly waiting, Su Bin yed his part, feigning affection and readiness to embrace her.
However, when she heard Su Bin call Zhenzhen and not her name, she felt a little ufortable.
She put on a flirtatious expression and leaned against the edge of the bed to correct Su Bin. ¡°You¡¯ve got the wrong person. Look carefully. Who am I?¡±
Su Bin was stunned for a moment. Just as he was about to pounce on the fifth princess, he suddenly stopped, looking a little confused.
¡°Who are you?¡±
After confirming that Su Bin had fallen for it, the fifth princess continued to tempt him. ¡°I¡¯m the person who can give you happiness!¡±
¡°If you can call out my name, I¡¯ll¡ serve you well today.. I guarantee that you¡¯ll never forget my goodness!¡±
Chapter 436 - 436: Su Bin’s Missing
Chapter 436 - 436: Su Bin¡¯s Missing
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The fifth princess exhibited troubling psychological tendencies. As she entered the room, she wore heavy makeup, veiling her true appearance beneathyers of cosmetics.
Despite her distorted nature, she harbored a peculiar desire to hear her name spoken by Su Bin. Eventually, Su Bin obliged, muttering, ¡°You are¡ You appear to be the fifth princess, correct?¡±
The fifth princess erupted in delight. ¡°Oh, you can even discern this¡¡±
¡°Come closer,e closer. I will elevate you to the heavens!¡± she eximed.
With those words, she initiated an advance toward Su Bin. However, to Su Bin¡¯s surprise, she ended up embracing another man instead.
The Crown Prince discreetly excused himself for a period, feigning other engagements. However, as he recollected that he had a matter to discuss with Su Bin, he sought to locate him.
To his dismay, when he eventually sought to find Su Bin, he discovered that the man was nowhere to be found.
At this point, the banquet had already concluded, and the fifth segment, involving the reunification of men and women, was underway. Naturally, it was a collective gathering, and any private rendezvous between individuals was unlikely.
The Crown Prince, inclined to disy his stature, attempted to demonstrate his status. Word swiftly spread about Su Bin¡¯s disappearance, sparking discussions among the young masters anddies in attendance.
¡°I¡¯ve heard that the banquet is still ongoing, and Su Bin has retired to the backyard.¡±
¡°Rumor has it that His Highness the Crown Prince summoned him for an inquiry.¡±
¡°Yet, due to an unforeseen engagement, the Crown Prince directed him to wait in the backyard, and now he¡¯s nowhere to be found.¡±
¡°Su Bin¡¯s conduct is rather questionable. Given his prior appointment with the Crown Prince, he should have refrained from wandering and been readily avable.¡±
¡°He¡¯s merely been waiting for a while, and he¡¯s growing impatient. Let¡¯s remember, he hails from the countryside and might not be well-versed in the finer points of etiquette.¡±
¡°I disagree; it¡¯s not that he¡¯s oblivious to etiquette. In reality, he appears quite arrogant and doesn¡¯t seem to hold His Highness the Crown Prince in high regard!¡±
Thesements were evidently contrived by individuals with malicious intentions.
¡°But where on earth has he gone? Why has he remained elusive despite numerous attempts to locate him?¡±
¡°Could he have identally fallen into the river and drowned?¡± ¡°That¡¯s unlikely. There are guards stationed by the river.¡±
Suddenly, a young master made a startling suggestion.
¡°Perhaps he¡¯s taken a liking to one of the maids, and the two of them have retreated to the faux cave in the backyard for a rendezvous?¡±
¡°Ha! That¡¯s quite the possibility!¡±
¡°Shall we investigate the faux cave to find him?¡±
¡°A splendid idea. Let¡¯s go as a group. Who knows, we might witness something quite out of the ordinary.¡±
Laughter and jesting ensued among these young masters, who seemed to have exceptionally vivid imaginations. Such scenarios were not unfamiliar to them and thus did not elicit much surprise.
The nearby youngdies, upon hearing thesements, collectively blushed and condemned the men in their hearts. They all seemed to be preupied with romantic dalliances and couldn¡¯t conceive that the new Primus could be such a person. However, they found themselves in no position to defend Su Bin.
Only one young master among them possessed the audacity to stand up and voice his thoughts.
¡°I find that highly unlikely. This is the royal courtyard, after all. Even individuals with a modicum ofmon sense wouldn¡¯t dare to cause trouble in these surroundings, let alone Su Bin.¡±
¡°Indeed, it¡¯smon knowledge that he harbors profound affection for Mrs. Su. He publicly dered his lifelongmitment to her on the streets. He vowed never to take another wife or concubine aside from Mrs. Su.¡¯
¡°Given this, do you genuinely believe that a man like Su Bin would engage in indiscretions with a maid in the faux cave?¡±
¡°I share the same sentiment.¡¯
Several young masters chimed in, united in their skepticism..
Chapter 437 - 437: They’re Not Good People
Chapter 437 - 437: They¡¯re Not Good People
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°But if we rule out such possibilities, where could Su Bin have gone?¡±
¡°I¡¯ve heard we¡¯vebed through nearly every ce except the rockery in the backyard.¡±
¡°Perhaps it¡¯s worth investigating that area, regardless of the likelihood.¡±
¡°You¡¯re right. What if we do find something?¡±
As they continued their debate, a man hurried over. ¡°What are you all still discussing here?¡±
¡°His Highness has already led a party to search for Su Bin in the rockery at the backyard!¡±
¡°Ah? So, you¡¯re suggesting that Su Bin might have headed to the backyard¡¯s rockery?¡±
¡°Isn¡¯t it evident? The fact that they¡¯ve dispatched a considerable group implies just that!¡±
¡°Did any of you notice a missing maid?¡±
¡°Haha, if our spections are urate, there could be quite the spectacle!¡±
¡°Why don¡¯t we go and witness it?¡±
¡°Let¡¯s not waste any time!¡±
The group of young masters promptly rushed to the backyard with the hope of being part of the spectacle. Meanwhile, the group of young heiresses, overwhelmed by their curiosity, followed suit.
As they departed, Su Bin emerged from behind a flowerbed, shaking his head in mild amusement. ¡°These individuals harbor such perverse thoughts.¡±
¡°Underneath their morous exteriors, they¡¯re truly debased.¡±
He pondered why the fifth princess, who could have been a dignified princess, had chosen to behave so disgracefully in private, forsaking her regal standing.
Su Ning felt a rising sense of anxiety as her elder brother, Su Bin, remained inexplicably absent. The increasingly disconcerting conversations among the young masters anddies only added to her distress.
¡°Third Sister-inw, don¡¯t pay any heed to the rumors circting. I haveplete faith in my third brother. He would never engage in such behavior,¡± Su Ning asserted with conviction.
Qin Zhenzhen offered an understanding nod. ¡°I share your trust in your third brother. I¡¯m confident he would never involve himself in anything of the sort.¡±
Su Ning, albeit relieved by her sister-inw¡¯s words, remained concerned. ¡°Nevertheless, I¡¯m still worried about my third brother.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen offered a reassuring smile and inquired, ¡°What is it that concerns you?¡±
Su Ning confided, ¡°I fear he may fall victim to someone¡¯s schemes, much like how I nearly sumbed to the fifth princess¡¯s devious n.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded with a knowing grin. ¡°There¡¯s no need for concern. Your third brother is exceptionally astute. He won¡¯t easily be ensnared by others¡¯ schemes.¡±
Observing her third sister-inw¡¯s unwaveringposure, Su Ning¡¯s worries began to ebb. She trusted her brother¡¯s intelligence implicitly.
Nheless, curiosity still gued Su Ning. She inquired further, ¡°Third Sister-inw, can you tell me whether the fifth princess holds an affection for my third brother?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen candidly replied, ¡°I do believe she does.¡±
¡°We had some doubts earlier, but after what urred on the pleasure boat, any uncertainty was dispelled.¡±
She then recounted the story of Su Bin encountering the fifth princess during his travels in the capital.
Su Ning, surprised by the revtion, asked, ¡°Is this truly the case?¡±
¡°Why is the fifth princess acting so shamelessly?¡±
¡°Why would she attempt to steal someone else¡¯s husband?¡±
¡°My third brother has made it abundantly clear that he will only love you in this lifetime!¡±
Seizing the opportunity, Qin Zhenzhen subtly cast aspersions on Su Ning.
¡°You know, most individuals in the royal family are terribly shameless,¡± Qin Zhenzhen remarked, her toneced with disdain.
¡°That¡¯s because they perceive themselves as princes and princesses, borne of the ¡®golden branches and jade leaves,¡¯ as they call it. They believe they inherently possess a sense of superiority and entitlement,ying im to the finest things the world has to offer.¡±
¡°They are ustomed to acquiring anything they desire. And when that proves unattainable, they resort to destructive and vindictive means.¡±
Su Ning expressed her frustration. saving. ¡°They¡¯re all awful people!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt a sense of aplishment; this marked the first time she had heard Su Ning articte such sentiments.
She understood that Su Ning¡¯s reference to ¡®they¡¯ epassed the members of the royal family. The initial step in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s endeavor to rescue Su Ning involved imparting the understanding that many within the royal family were not virtuous individuals..
Chapter 438 - 438: It’s Good That Primus Su Is Fine
Chapter 438 - 438: It¡¯s Good That Primus Su Is Fine
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen and Su Ning were deep in conversation when the Third Prince approached them.
¡°Mrs. Su, Miss Su, it¡¯s good to see you here.¡±
¡°Yes, Third Prince,¡± they responded in unison, offering their bows.
The Third Prince appeared somewhat concerned. ¡°You¡¯re not with Primus Su?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen candidly replied, ¡°No.¡±
Although Su Bin was coborating with the Third Prince, Qin Zhenzhen was aware that he hadn¡¯t disclosed the entirety of his actions today. If he had, the Third Prince would likely have dissuaded him from seeking retribution against the fifth princess, for the sake of the imperial family¡¯s reputation.
Nheless, Qin Zhenzhen wholeheartedly supported Su Bin¡¯s choices. Given someone like the fifth princess, if they failed to decisively subdue her, there was a high probability that she would strike back.
There were certain individuals who couldn¡¯t be afforded leniency. Even if it strained their rtionship with the Third Prince, they remained resolved to exact just punishment.
The Third Prince wore aplex expression. ¡°Mrs. Su, may I have a moment to speak with you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nced at Su Ning.
The Third Prince promptly assured, ¡°Don¡¯t fret about Miss Su¡¯s safety. I¡¯ll have my guards watch over her.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen consented. ¡°Your Highness, please.¡±
They distanced themselves from Su Ning by several paces.
¡°Mrs. Su, the incident on the cruise ship must have been quite unsettling for you.¡±
Evenmoners had likely deduced the cause behind the cruise ship incident. It was improbable that the Third Prince had not considered the fifth princess¡¯s involvement.
Qin Zhenzhen affirmed with seriousness, ¡°I was indeed taken aback at the time. Fortunately, my sister and I managed to escape a cmity.¡±
The Third Prince examined Qin Zhenzhen closely. ¡°I assumed you were aware beforehand that someone intended to harm you.¡±
With a serene smile, Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°How could I have foreseen an attempt on my life during a cruise ship outing?
¡°Yet, as the saying goes, it¡¯s better to be cautious than regretful. I am always on guard during such gatherings. That¡¯s why I felt safe. I never thought someone would conspire against us.¡±
¡°In the end, we indeed encountered danger.¡±
¡°But I didn¡¯t anticipate the orchestrator to be who it was.¡±
The identity of the individual to whom Qin Zhenzhen referred was clear to the Third Prince. The fifth princess, despite not sharing the same mother, maintained a rtively amicable rtionship with him.
He, too, had not anticipated the fifth princess¡¯s involvement.
The Third Prince disyed a hint of embarrassment. ¡°I apologize, I truly had no prior knowledge.¡±
Tolerantly, Qin Zhenzhen smiled, ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, Third Prince. You needn¡¯t feel ashamed.¡¯
The Third Prince sensed that he should not prolong his conversation with Qin Zhenzhen and broached the main issue. ¡°Do you have no idea where Primus Su has gone?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head and rified, ¡°I truly don¡¯t know. Aren¡¯t we free after the banquet? I believe he may have sought us out for some amusement.¡±
¡°After the banquet, my sister and I also attempted to find him. It¡¯s possible that we missed each other, with neither of us sessfully locating the other.¡±
In that moment, as Qin Zhenzhen finished her exnation, she heard Su Ning¡¯s voice calling out, ¡°Third Brother!¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw and I are here!¡± Su Ning called out.
Su Bin smiled and replied, ¡°I¡¯ve finally found you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen turned to see Su Bin approaching, and she greeted him with a smile. ¡°Third Prince, you see, my intuition was right, wasn¡¯t it? We were searching for him, and he was looking for us.¡±
The Third Prince appeared to exhale a sigh of relief. ¡°I¡¯m relieved that Primus Su is unharmed.¡±
He had been genuinely concerned for a while that Su Bin might have fallen victim to a scheme orchestrated by the Crown Prince..
Chapter 439 - 439: Something Happened in the Rockery
Chapter 439 - 439: Something Happened in the Rockery
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin approached and respectfully greeted the Third Prince. ¡°Greetings, Third Prince. ¡±
The Third Prince kindly replied, ¡°No need for formalities.¡±
Observing Su Bin closely, he sensed that Su Bin might be concealing something from him.
¡°I heard that His Highness the Crown Prince was searching for Primus Su everywhere but couldn¡¯t locate you. May I ask where you were just now?¡±
Su Bin exined with a hint of embarrassment, ¡°I had to use the restroom earlier.¡±
He proceeded to describe the situation to the Third Prince, sharing that the Crown Prince had sent someone to fetch him and led him to the backyard. However, the Crown Prince got called away, leaving him waiting alone. Su Bin remained in the same location, expecting the Crown Prince¡¯s return, but no one informed him otherwise, and there were no guards nearby to provide information.
As time passed, he began to feel difort in his stomach, likely due to overindulging in seafood. The difort intensified, and he eventually decided to find a nearby restroom to alleviate his difort. Unfamiliar with the surroundings, he sought help from an elderly worker in the backyard, who directed him to the restroom. After spending an extended period there due to his condition, he emerged to discover that the Crown Prince had been searching for him extensively, leading to a misunderstanding that he had gone missing. Su Bin expressed his embarrassment, attributing the situation to his overindulgence in seafood.
The Third Prince listened attentively to Su Bin¡¯s exnation.
The Third Prince also learned that the Crown Prince had assembled a group of people to search the backyard¡¯s rockery for Su Bin.
Given this new information, he felt a sense of urgency to head to the backyard.
Although Su Bin¡¯s exnation seemed usible, the Third Prince suspected that there might be more to the story.
The Crown Prince had initially summoned Su Bin to the backyard, only toter im he had other matters to attend to, leaving Su Bin waiting alone.
It appeared clear to the Third Prince that there was a plot against Su Bin.
As the Crown Prince organized an extensive search for Su Bin after his apparent disappearance, the Third Prince concluded that Su Bin was likely inside the fake cave in the backyard.
His Highness the Crown Prince had brought numerous individuals to the rockery, implying that he intended to catch them in apromising situation.
However, Su Bin had emerged from elsewhere,plicating the situation.
The Third Prince felt a sense of frustration. Ever since the cruise ship incident,
he had wanted to assign someone to monitor the Crown Prince and the fifth
princess, ready to intervene if they posed any harm to Su Bin. However, his
strategic advisor had cautioned against interference, emphasizing the
potential repercussions of such actions. The Third Prince reluctantly had to
heed this advice and refrain from meddling in the matter. He understood that
if the Crown Prince reported to the Emperor that he had been surveilled, it
could result in a severe offense.
With these limitations in mind, the Third Prince was determined not to provide any ammunition for the Crown Prince¡¯s use. He was left to bear the burden of enduring the situation.
Upon hearing that Su Bin was missing, the Third Prince couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of unease.
The Third Prince couldn¡¯t help but regret not assigning someone to monitor the Crown Prince and the fifth princess. However, as he observed Su Bin now, a
sense of realization washed over him.
It seemed that the Crown Prince¡¯s intentions to scheme against Su Bin had been foiled, and instead, the situation was reversed.
With aplicated expression, the Third Prince proposed, ¡°Let¡¯s go together!¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Su Bin agreed.
The two of them hurried to the backyard and arrived to find arge crowd gathered around the rockery. The area was teeming with people trying to get a closer look at something that had transpired within.
The Third Prince was informed by a guard who had observed the situation. ¡°His Highness brought a group of people to the rockery to search for Su Bin when they heard strange soundsing from within. They rushed inside and discovered a man and a woman who had just been engaged in an intimate encounter. Both of them were undressed.¡¯
¡°The shocking revtion was that the woman turned out to be the fifth princess, while the man was purportedly a male courtesan from Yihong
Courtyard..¡±
Chapter 440 - 440: Hurting Others and Hurting Oneself
Chapter 440 - 440: Hurting Others and Hurting Oneself
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The news of the fifth princess engaging in an intimate encounter with a male escort from Yihong Courtyard inside the rockery cave spread like wildfire.
The Crown Prince¡¯s face darkened as he contemted sending someone to suppress the news, but it was toote. The situation had already spiraled out of his control. He med himself for mistaking the individuals inside the cave for Su Bin and the youngdy, which led to his order to expose them.
Once the two naked individuals were dragged out, their disheveled appearances initially concealed their identities. However, the Crown Prince instructed them to reveal their faces, and their lustful expressions became unmistakable.
Many onlookers instantly recognized the fifth princess as the woman in question, and the malepanion, Qingsheng, from Yihong Courtyard, confessed that he was the fifth princess¡¯s lover. In his initial ignorance, Qingsheng had not known he was with the princess, but overhearing the discussions around him made him realize her true identity, leading to an embarrassing reaction.
The resulting uproar spread like wildfire, and good or bad news had a way of permeating every corner.
The Crown Prince¡¯s attempts to control the situation proved futile, as the news had already reached all the participants of the garden event. Detaining them was impossible, leaving the Crown Prince utterly bewildered by how things had taken such a disastrous turn.
The Crown Prince and the fifth princess had originally nned to lure Su Bin into the fake cave after their initial scheme seeded. Their n was to ce a youngdy inside and give both Su Bin and thedy a pill. When they brought witnesses to the scene to catch them in the act, they would have solid evidence.
However, things didn¡¯t go as they had intended. The Crown Prince personally witnessed Su Bin entering the room and then heard the fifth princess¡¯s triumphant voice from inside, indicating that Su Bin had fallen for the ruse. Believing that the matter was resolved, the Crown Prince left the scene.
Later, he received word from the fifth princess¡¯s personal maid that everything was proceeding ording to n. The fifth princess had achieved her goal and was resting in her room. Su Bin and another youngdy were inside the fake cave, already dosed with the medicine, and the Crown Prince could soon expose them in apromising position.
Thinking that the moment had arrived, the Crown Prince feigned concern by spreading news of Su Bin¡¯s disappearance and the search for him. He took the advice of some individuals to look around the rockery, as the rest of the courtyard had been thoroughly searched.
When he heard voices emanating from the rockery cave, the Crown Prince was filled with anticipation. He believed that he could finally eliminate Su Bin this time. He acted in a fit of anger and ordered the two individuals caught in the act inside the cave to be brought out. Regrettably, things took an unexpected turn.
The Crown Prince deeply regretted not personally inspecting the situation within the cave. If he had known that the woman involved was his fifth sister, he would never have given the order to have them forcibly removed.
Initially, upon recognizing that the woman was the fifth princess, he had contemted covering up the incident. However, the effects of the substances they had been administered to had not fully worn off for the fifth princess. She was enthusiastically hugging the young man, celebrating her birthday, and yfully calling him ¡°darling.¡± She even shamelessly remarked, ¡°Your performance today was outstanding. I¡¯ve decided to keep you!¡±
It was only when the fifth princess¡¯s personal maid had disappeared that the Crown Prince realized she had Su Bin¡¯s men working for her.
Su Bin was well aware of the fifth princess¡¯s character and their shared n. In response, he outsmarted her by exposing her disgraceful actions to the public..
Chapter 441 - 441: Lie
Chapter 441 - 441: Lie
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The enraged Crown Prince summoned Su Bin, but Su Bin¡¯s response remained consistent with what both he and the Third Prince had affirmed. There were no apparent loopholes in his ount. Su Bin went the extra mile to corroborate his story, even locating the uncle who had directed him to the restroom, providing further evidence of his truthfulness.
In the face of this, the Crown Prince found no grounds to fault Su Bin and reluctantly abandoned his investigation. Continuing to probe would only suggest a deliberate agenda.
Nevertheless, the Crown Prince was left perplexed. If this situation was orchestrated by Su Bin, then he possessed extraordinary power. Even with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s support, it was improbable that one or two individuals could execute a n involving bringing in a courtesan, bribing Fifth Sister¡¯s maids, handling her guards, and secretly relocating her behind the rockery.
Thisplex operation necessitated a well-coordinated team, making it almost impossible for Su Bin to act alone. Something didn¡¯t add up. There had to be someone behind Su Bin!
The Crown Prince¡¯s suspicions quickly focused on the Third Prince, who had coincidentally arrived in the backyard with Su Bin and the others. It was too much of a coincidence to dismiss; they must have been conspiring.
The Crown Prince felt a growing frustration. He was certain that the Third Prince was the mastermind behind all this, with the aim of uncovering his vulnerabilities and bringing him down from his position as the Crown Prince.
Even when the Crown Prince failed to find any evidence against the Third Prince, thetter ruthlessly tarnished his own sister¡¯s reputation, spreading the scandal that she was involved in the matter.
If anything befell his fifth sister, the implications would undoubtedly reach him. Even if he managed to distance himself from the situation, the Third Prince would have sessfully exacted his revenge. After all, Fifth Sister was his only full sibling, sharing the same mother.
The destruction of Fifth Sister¡¯s reputation also dealt a severe blow to his mother. Despite the Empress¡¯s stable position in the harem, her rtionship with their father had deteriorated significantly. In essence, the Empress had long been leading the life of a widow, despite her title as the head of the six pces.
Their father¡¯s harem was notcking in beautiful women, and Fifth Sister¡¯s scandal would undoubtedly enrage their father, leading him to vent his anger on the Empress tor tailing to properly raise her daughter.
With all these considerations, the Crown Prince wished he could confront the Third Prince and Su Bin immediately. The Third Prince couldn¡¯t simply stand by; the person who had exposed the scandal was none other than his own imperial sister, the fifth princess, who had brought disgrace upon the entire royal family.
In addition to assisting the Crown Prince in pursuing the fifth princess¡¯ personal maid, the Third Prince had even arranged for an escort to bring the fifth princess back to the pce. He personally reported the entire incident to their father, further fueling the Emperor¡¯s fury.
The Emperor, in his anger, summoned the Crown Prince, the Third Prince, and the fifth princess for questioning overnight. Prior to this, the Crown Prince had already consulted with the Empress and the fifth princess to devise a strategy.
In the presence of their mother, they presented a distorted version of the truth, with the fifth princess assuming the role of a grieving victim, weeping incessantly. Her heartache at that moment was genuine. Despite the Empress¡¯s two ps, the fifth princess remained silent, continuing to weep.
The Crown Prince had cautioned her not to say anything in front of their father and mother, assuring her that he would handle everything and minimize the damage to her reputation.
With the situation having escted to this point, the fifth princess had no choice but to heed her elder brother, the Crown Prince, despite her intense resentment towards him.
She harbored a deep loathing for the Crown Prince because, had he not tempted her with Su Bin¡¯s portrait, she wouldn¡¯t have found herself in this unfortunate predicament.
The Crown Prince proceeded to convey a fabricated ount to the Empress, stating, ¡°Fifth Sister had a bit to drink due to her joyous mood. Overwhelmed by the alcohol, she retired to her chambers to rest.¡±
¡°However, I could never have anticipated that someone would bribe her maid and the guards to administer a concoction to her, subsequently leading her to the cave near the rockery..¡±
Chapter 442 - 442: No Evidence
Chapter 442 - 442: No Evidence
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Due to the effects of the medicine, Fifth Sister was incapacitated and found herself in apromising situation with the man in the cave,¡± the Crown Prince exined.
¡°Fifth Sister had no prior acquaintance with him, yet he was coerced into publicly acknowledging his identity and falsely using him of being Fifth Sister¡¯s former lover. I was so incensed that I acted impulsively and killed him on the spot.¡±
The Crown Prince¡¯s actions would certainly disrupt the festivity.
However, the Empress, unaware of the intricate details, confronted the Crown
Prince with a furious countenance, ¡°Why did you kill him?¡±
The Crown Prince realized that his hasty action had severed vital leads. He couldn¡¯t inquire about how the intruder gained ess or who had directed him. In response, he swiftly rebuked himself, ¡°It¡¯s all my fault for sumbing to my impulses. But I was consumed by anger at the time. Had I not acted, he would have continued spreading falsehoods about himself and Fifth Sister.¡±
¡°I should have merely subdued him, but I exerted too much force, resulting in his demise.¡±
¡°Mother, please reprimand me.¡±
The Empress, suppressing her ire and inner anguish, asked, ¡°Why did you bring people to the backyard near the rockery?¡±
The Crown Prince borated, ¡°I had summoned our new Primus, Su Bin, to the backyard as I needed to discuss a matter with him.¡±
¡°Subsequently, I had to attend to an urgent affair, and I instructed him to wait there.¡±
¡°Regrettably, upon my return, Su Bin was nowhere to be found, and nobody could ascertain his whereabouts.¡±
¡°I¡¯m also perplexed by his disappearance. At this point, someone deliberately misled me by iming that they had seen Su Bin heading to the rockery in the backyard.¡±
¡°He also imed to have lost one of his maids and insinuated that Su Bin and the maid had ventured to the rockery. It seemed highly probable they engaged in some impropriety there,¡± the Crown Prince recounted.
¡°When I heard this, my anger got the best of me, prompting me to initiate an investigation.¡±
¡°Yet, I never anticipated that those concealed in the rockery were none other than Fifth Sister and that individual.
¡°That¡¯s what unfolded¡ªI was deceived!¡±
¡°Mother, I strongly suspect that the Third Prince is the mastermind behind this.¡±
The Empress, consumed by anger, hurled a cup and thundered, ¡°Why would he do such a thing? Your sister¡¯s disgrace affects the entire royal family. Isn¡¯t he a part of this family?¡±
¡°Your sister is his sibling too! How can he act so heartlessly? He appears indifferent to both family bonds and the dignity of our royal lineage! ¡±
The Crown Prince sighed, ¡°He likely sought retribution against me but was uncertain where to start. Consequently, he targeted Fifth Sister.¡±
¡°He believes that by tarnishing Fifth Sister¡¯s reputation, he canpel Father to hold Mother ountable. Beyond delivering a blow, he could also implicate me.¡±
¡°This garden excursion was my endeavor, and as her brother, I couldn¡¯t even protect her adequately.¡±
¡°Mother, you may scold me or strike me, but please help Fifth Sister, particrly her. She has already borne an unjust cmity and must now endure the nder circting beyond these walls.¡±
The Crown Prince required the Empress¡¯s assistance to restore the fifth princess¡¯s honor. Only then could the Crown Prince remain unscathed.
He was well-acquainted with the fifth princess¡¯s temperament. Without his support, she might divulge everything before their Imperial Father, affording him the opportunity to outmaneuver the Third Prince.
As the Empress gradually regained herposure after learning the full story, she inquired, ¡°You im that the Third Prince and Su Bin conspired. Do you have any evidence?¡±
The Crown Prince shook his head and admitted, ¡°Ick concrete evidence for now..¡±
Chapter 443 - 443: Countermeasure
Chapter 443 - 443: Countermeasure
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¡°How can you be so certain of the Third Prince and Su Bin¡¯s conspiracy without any evidence?¡± The Empress was not easily deceived, her skepticism apparent.
The Crown Prince hastened to exin, ¡°We are actively seeking evidence,
Mother. We are determined to uncover it.¡¯
¡°No matter how careful their scheming is, there will inevitably be loopholes.¡±
¡°I implore you for your assistance, Mother. I need your support for both myself and Fifth Sister when we face Father.
Just then, a servant approached. ¡°Your Majesty, Ah Lian has returned.¡±
¡°Very well!¡± The Empress excused herself for a moment.
Upon her return, she fixed a stern gaze upon the Crown Prince. ¡°You and your sister are my flesh and blood. Whatever you do, I shall stand by you.¡±
¡°However, if you keep anything from me, how can I be of assistance?¡±
The Crown Prince lowered his head in guilt, sensing that his mother had her means of obtaining information. Ah Lian must have ryed some news to her.
The Empress¡¯s tone grew even more severe. ¡°Tell me the truth!¡±
¡°Wasn¡¯t the incident on the cruise ship your doing?¡±
The Crown Prince breathed a sigh of relief, realizing that the Empress had only learned about the cruise ship incident. This was manageable.
¡°Mother, regarding that matter¡ you should inquire with Fifth Sister!¡±
He signaled for his fifth sister to reveal the truth.
The fifth princess welled up with tears once again, prompting the Crown
Prince to speak directly to his mother, ¡°That day, Fifth Sister happened to see Su Bin and became infatuated with him. She believed that Su Bin was the person she had been searching for.¡±
¡°But Su Bin is already married.¡±
¡°Yet, Fifth Sister did not heed my advice and insisted on making Su Bin her husband.¡±
The Empress¡¯s face contorted with anger. ¡°So you aided her and attempted to push Mrs. Su into the water. You tore her garments and subjected her to humiliation. However, she discovered your scheme and fought back.¡±
¡°To cover up for your sister, you even agreed to marry both women! Is that not the truth?¡±
The Crown Prince nodded in silence. ¡°I was mistaken. I should have stopped Fifth Sister¡
The fifth princess, overwhelmed, could no longer bear it and pointed at the
Crown Prince. ¡°You¡¯re lying. That¡¯s not how it happened at all!¡±
She made it clear that she had not initially wished for any of this. It was always the Crown Prince who had incited her.
The Empress, however, promptly delivered a resounding p to the fifth princess. ¡°Have you no shame?¡±
¡°As a princess, you pursued a married man!¡±
She then turned and pped the Crown Prince as well. ¡°Your sister is engaging in reckless behavior, and now you are doing the same?!¡±
¡°Moreover, your method was far from clever!¡±
¡°Why didn¡¯t you consult with the advisors by your side before taking any action?¡±
Many of the Crown Prince¡¯s aides had been ced by the Empress¡¯s family to assist him in his smooth ascension to the throne. However, the Crown Prince failed toprehend their careful nning and often felt that his freedom was constrained by these advisors.
He had initially contemted an attack on Qin Zhenzhen but had refrained because one of his advisors had dissuaded him.
Hence, when he arranged this garden tour and conspired with the fifth princess, he deliberately kept it concealed from his advisors.
The Empress felt a profound sense of disappointment. ¡°Now, your only recourse is to confess to your father about your actions on the cruise ship.¡±
¡°Even I am now aware of the situation. Your father can no longer keep it under wraps.¡±
¡°The Third Prince cannot evade the truth either.¡±
¡°Perhaps it¡¯s best for me to acknowledge my wrongdoing ahead of time, so the Third Prince won¡¯t ce me solely on me.¡±
The three of them engaged in a discussion, strategizing their next steps..
Chapter 444 - 444: Admit Mistake
Chapter 444 - 444: Admit Mistake
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Before the Emperor could pose a question, the fifth princess knelt on the ground, tears streaming down her face, and admitted her wrongdoing, sobbing uncontrobly. ¡°No¡ Father, I havemitted a grave mistake!¡±
¡°Sob¡ I have suffered the consequences too¡¡±
¡°Sob¡ Father, I beseech you to decree my execution. Do not tarnish the royal family because of me!¡±
The Emperor¡¯s countenance turned ashen. ¡°Cease your weeping! If you truly desire death, I shall grant it!¡±
¡°But before your demise, you must provide a clear ount of the entire matter!¡±
¡°As a princess, how did you be associated with a courtesan from a brothel?¡±
He was seething with anger. His most cherished fifth princess had engaged in such disgraceful conduct.
Moreover, it had be public knowledge, a severe blot on the royal family¡¯s reputation.
The fifth princess wailed in despair, ¡°Imperial Father, your daughter had no involvement with any gigolo whatsoever! I do not know him. I was framed!¡±
¡°Father, I implore you to uncover the truth before passing judgment on me and to exact vengeance on the person who framed me!¡±
Subsequently, the Crown Prince and the fifth princess reiterated the false narrative they had concocted. The fifth princess steadfastly asserted that she had no connections with any male escorts. She had been deceived and framed by a maidservant.
She exined that she had consumed an excessive amount of alcohol and retired to her room. Her maidservant then ryed a message that the Crown Prince had summoned her to the backyard near the rockery.
She had trusted the maid¡¯s words.
In the end, when she arrived in the backyard, she began to feel dizzy, only toter discover that her maidservant had adulterated her drink with a potent substance.
Then, in a daze, she was pulled into a cave in the rockery.
Subsequently, the effects of the drug took hold, and she lost all recollection of what transpired.
Even after being forcibly removed from the rockery, she remained unconscious, leading to suspicions that someone had manipted her to utter those words.
His Highness the Crown Prince came to her defense, affirming, ¡°The substance administered to Fifth Sister has been identified as a foreign drug, inducing severe confusion and making the affected individual highly suggestible. It¡¯s easy to imnt certain phrases in her disoriented state.¡±
¡°Fifth Sister indeed uttered iprehensible things when she emerged, but she was genuinely delirious at the time. I can attest to this with absolute certainty.¡±
While the Emperor remained somewhat skeptical of the Crown Prince and the fifth princess¡¯s ounts, the fifth princess was, after all, his cherished daughter. Despite her reckless behavior tarnishing the imperial family¡¯s reputation, he could not help but feel a sense of heartache for her, in addition to his vexation over her waywardness.
The Emperor gazed sternly at the fifth princess and the Crown Prince. Were they intent on concealing the events of the cruise ship? Did they believe he was unaware of the gravity of her actions?
¡°You admitted to your wrongdoing just now. What precisely did you do wrong?¡±
¡°Sob¡ Father, I was mistaken!¡±
In front of the Third Prince, the fifth princess voluntarily confessed to orchestrating the events on the cruise ship. She disclosed her infatuation with Su Bin and her desire for him to be her husband. Her objective was to besmirch Mrs. Su¡¯s reputation and prevent her from bing the Primus¡¯s wife.
She admitted to bribing an individual who assisted the Crown Prince in managing the cruise ship, with the explicit intention of tampering with the ship¡¯s railing.
The fifth princess heeded her mother¡¯s advice and the Crown Prince¡¯s elder brother, willingly assuming full responsibility for the situation.
The Empress assured that as long as the Crown Prince remained unscathed, their future prospects would be brighter.
The fifth princess borated further, stating that following the incident with the two youngdies falling into the water, the Crown Prince¡¯s elder brother discovered her involvement and promptly aided her in rectifying the situation. He took measures to resolve the issue, even going so far as to marry the two youngdies into their household.
Therefore, the events aboard the cruise ship bore no connection to the Crown Prince..
Chapter 445 - 445: Justice
Chapter 445 - 445: Justice
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The Emperor had long been aware of the cruise ship incident and the scandal involving the fifth princess and the gigolo, and he had been seething with anger initially.
However, as he listened to the fabricated stories spun by the Crown Prince and witnessed the fifth princess¡¯s tearful confession, his anger gradually subsided.
Seizing the moment, the Empress knelt on the ground and wept. ¡°Your Majesty, our daughter has suffered such grievous harm. I can¡¯t bear to live anymore¡¡±
While speaking, she struck her head against the Emperor¡¯s throne, prompting the Crown Prince to swiftly pull her back.
¡°Mother, please don¡¯t distress yourself too much!¡±
The Emperor furrowed his brows. ¡°Empress, cease this folly!¡±
¡°Guards, escort the Empress away!¡±
However, the Empress vehemently refused to depart.
¡°Your Majesty, I implore you to seek justice for our daughter. Unearth the truth and bring the one who harmed our daughter to justice!¡±
¡°Your Majesty, do not be misled! Our daughter is a victim. You should not take her life!¡±
¡°If you do, I shall not endure it alone!¡±
The Emperor grew exasperated. ¡°Stop this nonsense! I never said I intended to take her life!¡±
¡°She desires to end her own!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t fret; I won¡¯t impose punishment until the truth is ascertained clearly!¡± Only then did the Empress cease her impassioned pleas.
The Emperor turned to the Crown Prince. ¡°Who do you suspect framed your sister?¡±
The Crown Prince confessed with remorse, ¡°Father, I haven¡¯t determined that yet.¡±
¡°Nheless, I believe that the individual responsible must possess significant influence to dare set up a scheme to harm Fifth Sister and bribe so many individuals,¡± the Crown Prince asserted.
¡°First and foremost, his identity is assuredly not ordinary. His high social status affords him considerable advantages, allowing him to insinuate himself into Fifth Sister¡¯s inner circle.¡¯
¡°I suspect that this individual¡¯s primary aim is to target me.¡±
The Crown Prince¡¯s words were evidently aimed at the Third Prince. Yet, the Third Prince remainedposed, knowing it wouldn¡¯t be easy to pin something on him that he hadn¡¯t done.
Nheless, he harbored secret concerns for Su Bin. The situation also ced Su Bin at risk. If the Crown Prince managed to unearth substantial evidence, the Emperor would not spare Su Bin.
Before entering the pce, the Third Prince had privately inquired of Su Bin,
¡°Were you behind the incident involving the fifth princess?¡±
Su Bin didn¡¯t conceal the truth. ¡°I merely wanted to give him a taste of his own medicine.¡±
The Third Prince furrowed his brow. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you discuss this with me beforehand?¡±
Su Bin exined, ¡°If I had revealed that the ck Panther Hall was behind this, would you have believed me?¡±
The Third Prince was taken aback. ¡°The ck Panther Hall?¡±
¡°That¡¯s correct. The ck Panther Hall epted a significant contract to tarnish the fifth princess¡¯s reputation,pelling her to wish for her own demise. I only discovered thister.¡±
The Third Prince was even more astounded. ¡°The ck Panther Hall is said to be led by remnants of the previous dynasty. How are you connected to them?¡±
Su Bin replied, ¡°I am not directly associated with the ck Panther Hall, but the Dragon Phoenix Hall specializes in gathering all kinds of information. It¡¯s not surprising for them to have knowledge about the ck Panther Hall, is it?¡±
¡°When I learned that the fifth princess and the Crown Prince were scheming against me, I sold this information to the ck Panther Hall and aided them in this endeavor.¡±
It was indeed the ck Panther Hall that executed this operation, but the individual whomissioned it was Su Bin.
Su Bin went on to rify further.
¡°The fifth princess leads a tumultuous private life, characterized by a proclivity for inflicting suffering upon handsome men, rendering them powerless afterward.
¡°Perhaps someone sought to mete out retribution on her behalf, so they engaged the services of the ck Panther Hall.¡±
¡°That¡¯s the extent of my knowledge.¡±
¡°I merely lent a hand.¡±
¡°Even without my assistance, the ck Panther Hall would have undoubtedly fulfilled the contract. The fifth princess¡¯s fate was sealed sooner orter..¡±
Chapter 446 - 446: The Emperor’s Thoughts
Chapter 446 - 446: The Emperor¡¯s Thoughts
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The Third Prince was not entirely convinced by Su Bin¡¯s exnation. He found Su Bin¡¯s actions increasingly disconcerting. The fact that even the Emperor¡¯s cherished fifth princess had been manipted, and the circumstances surrounding it, raised suspicion.
The coincidence that the ck Panther Hall was simultaneously undertaking a mission raised further doubts. Su Bin¡¯s im of only providing minimal assistance did little to ay the Third Prince¡¯s concerns. He couldn¡¯t help but suspect that Su Bin might be the mastermind behind it all.
Ultimately, the Third Prince arrived at the conclusion that Su Bin had concealed his true abilities from them. His position in the Dragon Phoenix Hall was likely higher than he had suggested.
The cries of the Empress pulled the Third Prince back to reality. He was immediately incensed by her audacity to implicate him right in front of him.
Did she have no qualms about performing in front of him?
¡°Father¡ for someone to gain ess to those around me, coercing them to betray me, they must have the means to move freely within the pce!¡±
¡°Considering I spend most of my time within the pce and seldom venture outside, my acquaintances arergely confined to those inside the pce.¡±
The fifth princess¡¯s words were even more explicit, essentially pointing the finger at the Third Prince.
Despite his intense anger, the Third Prince remainedposed. After all, he wasn¡¯t the only one with the ability toe and go within the pce.
Why should he even entertain their usations?
The Crown Prince added, ¡°Father, I believe it¡¯s necessary to begin our investigation from within our own ranks.¡±
These words left little to the imagination.
At this point, even the Emperor couldn¡¯t contain his frustration and directly inquired of them, ¡°The three of you suspect the Third Prince?¡±
The Crown Prince and the others fell silent.
The Emperor was furious. ¡°Am I correct? You truly suspect the Third Prince?¡± ¡°Are you daft?!¡±
¡°The Third Prince has been convalescing outside the capital. He returned only two months ago. During that time, he has spent the majority of his days in his residence. He only enters the pce three to four times a month and has been at my side the whole time!¡±
¡°How could he suddenly emerge and coerce those close to the fifth princess into betraying her?¡±
¡°Moreover, what possible motive would he have for harming the fifth princess?¡±
¡°Let me tell you, when I summoned the Third Prince to return to the pce, he was extremely reluctant!¡±
¡°He didn¡¯t want to return because he was avoiding you!¡±
Infuriating!
Thest time the Third Prince had been pursued and nearly lost his life, many signs had pointed to the Crown Prince. In the end, the mastermind was revealed to be a remnant of the previous dynasty due to ack of conclusive evidence. Consequently, he didn¡¯t pursue the matter further with the Crown Prince.
He had insisted on summoning the Third Prince back to the pce to investigate if the persecution had truly been instigated by the Crown Prince.
Simultaneously, he aimed to assess the Third Prince¡¯s capabilities and General Manor¡¯s intentions.
He needed to prevent the Third Prince and the Crown Prince from vying for the throne while he was alive.
The stakes in their power struggle were colossal.
The Empress¡¯s familymanded a third of the nation¡¯s military might, with one-third of the civil and military officials being their associates.
Even though the Third Prince¡¯s mother had passed away, the General¡¯s Mansion under his maternal grandfather¡¯s control stillmanded one-third of the nation¡¯s military might. One-third of the civil and military officials were aligned with the General¡¯s Mansion.
In the event of a conflict between the two factions, it was inevitable that they would engage in a relentless struggle.
Such a situation would likely be exploited by remnants of the previous dynasty.
However, the Empress couldn¡¯t discern the Emperor¡¯s thoughts.. Instead, she pointed at the Third Prince and rebuked, ¡°Did you distort the truth and concoct falsehoods to seek revenge against us in the presence of the Emperor?!¡±
Chapter 447 - 447: House Arrest
Chapter 447 - 447: House Arrest
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The Third Prince had no desire to engage further with the Empress, considering her to be a simple-minded woman. Nevertheless, the Empress persisted in her tirade, dering, ¡°Don¡¯t y the innocent. You¡¯re a cunning one!¡±
The Crown Prince chimed in with a sneer, saying, ¡°Let me enlighten you with this!¡±
He brandished a piece of paper in front of the Third Prince. ¡°This is a confession written by your guard, Cheng Feng!¡±
The Third Prince nced at the document withposure. ¡°Cheng Feng is a guard my father assigned to me just two months ago. What kind of confession has he authored?¡±
The Crown Prince continued to sneer, ¡°In his confession, he acknowledges that you were the one who harmed my fifth sister!¡±
¡°He also admits that you conspired with the new Primus, Su Bin!¡±
Colluding with the Empress, the Crown Prince decided to shift the me onto the Third Prince. This strategy would serve a dual purpose: minimize the damage inflicted upon the fifth princess and eliminate the Third Prince, all while sidelining Su Bin.
They even had a witness to support their ims.
The Third Prince couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°Your Highness, are you perhaps mistaken?¡±
¡°What motive could I possibly have for harming Fifth Sister?¡±
The revtion of Fifth Sister¡¯s scandal was linked to Su Bin, and the Third Prince had yed no part in it. Nevertheless, their usatory tone suggested they had failed to uncover any evidence against Su Bin and had consequently pinned the me on him.
They were even willing to resort to threats and enticements. The confession of his guard, Cheng Feng, was a fabrication.
Incensed, the Crown Prince retorted, ¡°Cheng Feng has already confessed that you suspect our mother¡¯s death is connected to your own mother¡¯s, so you intend to exact vengeance upon us!¡±
¡°Just because Fifth Sister and I share the same mother, you envy the fact that she has a mother to support her. You¡¯re the one who¡¯s warped and twisted. You think you can make us suffer just because you¡¯ve ruined Fifth Sister!¡±
Although the Third Prince remained calm, he was now visibly provoked. He uttered icily, ¡°No matter what you say, it¡¯s futile. If you want to use someone, words won¡¯t make a difference.¡¯
¡°Present Cheng Feng¡¯s confession letter to Father for examination, and then summon Cheng Feng here for interrogation.¡±
¡°I have faith in Father¡¯s fairness, wisdom, and impartiality. Father will discern whether Cheng Feng¡¯s usations are true or false!¡±
Did they truly believe they couldy the me on him?
Did they think he was merely a frail and ailing prince?
At that moment, the emperor¡¯s trusted eunuch entered the room, delivering a sealed secret letter to the Emperor. Su Bin had arranged for the letter to be discreetly delivered.
The letter contained substantial evidence of the fifth princess¡¯s disorderly private life, including a handwritten note to the courtesan and the rewards she had offered him due to her delight. This material constitutedpelling proof.
The letter also revealed that she had dispatched someone to introduce the courtesan¡¯s entertainment into the royal grounds. It was apparent that the fifth princess had devised a n to rendezvous with handsome men during the garden tour organized by the Crown Prince.
Additionally, the secret letter conveyed that the fifth princess was no longer a virgin and was considered an experienced individual in that regard. This assertion would be corroborated by a pce nanny.
There were at least ten handsome men with whom she had engaged in indiscretions.
The Crown Prince was privy to all the disgraceful activities the fifth princess had been involved in. Strangely, he had never attempted to curtail her behavior. In fact, he had been rather encouraging.
The Crown Prince was well aware that she intended to meet the courtesan in secret for her birthday and had even facilitated her entry by unlocking the door. Without this, Qingsheng wouldn¡¯t have been able to gain ess.
On one hand, the Crown Prince had provided ess to the fifth princess, and on the other hand, he had orchestrated a n to apprehend the adulterer red-handed. Subsequently, the Crown Prince apprehended Cheng Feng¡¯s family,pelling Cheng Feng to testify on his behalf.
Upon reading the secret letter, the Emperor was ovee with fury, and he flung it toward the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince rapidly perused its contents before copsing to his knees. Despite his predicament, he remained obstinate. ¡°Father, this is a setup!¡±
Seeing the Crown Prince¡¯sck of remorse, the Emperor¡¯s heart grew cold. He issued orders for the Empress, the Crown Prince, and the fifth princess to be ced under house arrest..
Chapter 448 - 448: Dilemma
Chapter 448 - 448: Dilemma
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The emperor issued a decree, ordering the empress, the third prince, the crown prince, and the fifth princess to be ced under house arrest within the pce. Until a thorough investigation was conducted, no one was permitted to visit or interact with them. The emperor held a strong distrust of anyone¡¯s ims and deemed it necessary to deploy the elusive Dragon Guards for aprehensive inquiry.
First on the docket was the matter concerning the fifth princess¡¯s tumultuous personal life. The investigation swiftly confirmed the uracy of a secret letter¡¯s revtions. Pce staff verified that the fifth princess had lost her virginity some time ago, engaging in a two-year-long affair with various handsome men. During this period, she frequently dispatched emissaries to the pharmacy for contraception supplies and brewed contraceptive concoctions to maintain her secrecy.
The fifth princess had been discreet in her actions. The crown prince, initially unaware of her indiscretions, eventually uncovered the truth. However, by that time, the fifth princess was deeply entangled in her web of deception, and neither of them seemed to care about the other. Her fixation on Su Bin had intensified over time, to the point that the crown prince even facilitated a meeting between her and Su Bin during a capital city tour.
Consequently, the fifth princess¡¯s infatuation with Su Bin grew uncontroble. Meanwhile, the crown prince¡¯s objective shifted towards removing Su Bin from the equation and securing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s affections.
The fifth princess had a strong desire for Su Bin, yearning for him to be her husband. However, Su Bin had openly pledged his lifelongmitment to his wife on the streets.
During a grand garden event, the fifth princess hatched a plot to harm Qin Zhenzhen in her pursuit of Su Bin. However, Qin Zhenzhen saw through the scheme and allowed those responsible for her harm to face the consequences of their actions. The Crown Prince, who was entangled in this affair, ultimately consented to marry the twodies involved to resolve the matter.
After their initial n failed, the fifth princess, in coboration with the crown prince, sought to discredit Su Bin during the garden event. They invested considerable resources in acquiring the Western Region Bewitching Poison with the intention of poisoning Su Bin and causing him to lose his senses, thereby using him of assaulting a youngdy. Fortunately, luck was on Su Bin¡¯s side, as operatives from the ck Panther Hall had received orders in advance to deal with the fifth princess and apprehend her, sparing Su Bin from their treacherous plot.
The fifth princess¡¯s romantic escapades with a handsome man in the artificial mountain of the royal courtyard were orchestrated by the ck Panther Hall and had no connection to the Third Prince or Su Bin. During the garden event, the Third Prince had entered with just two guards while the others waited outside, disying his unassuming and discreet demeanor.
However, the crown prince and the fifth princess remained oblivious to this fact, wrongly attributing all capabilities to the Third Prince and Su Bin.
Regrettably, the Crown Prince was unable to tind any concrete evidence to support his ims.
In his desperation, the Crown Prince resorted to a scheme, secretly apprehending Cheng Feng¡¯s family and coercing Cheng Feng into bing a false witness. He aimed to use this opportunity topletely discredit the Third Prince while allowing the fifth princess to portray herself as a victim and salvage a fragment of her tarnished reputation.
The siblings¡¯ n had received the Empress¡¯s approval.
Upon gaining aprehensive understanding of the situation, the emperor¡¯s countenance grew somber.
The Crown Prince harbored a strong desire to eliminate the Third Prince, leading to suspicions that he may have been involved in the attempt on the Third Prince¡¯s life at Guang Mansion in the past.
The Third Prince was undoubtedly aware of the Crown Prince¡¯s involvement, yet he adeptly concealed his knowledge. His decision to endure the situation stemmed from abination ofcking substantial evidence and a strategic effort to seize an opportunity to expose the Crown Prince¡¯s transgressions.
The emperor found himself caught in a dilemma. Announcing the Crown Prince¡¯s wrongdoing and incapacitating him would undoubtedly meet resistance from the Public House. This house held significance not only as the Empress¡¯s family but also as the Empress Dowager¡¯s maiden family..
Chapter 449 - 449: For the Emperor
Chapter 449 - 449: For the Emperor
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The Emperor maintained a deep sense of filial respect for the Empress
Dowager and wasmitted to avoiding any action that might displease her.
He would not have considered deposing the Crown Prince had it not been for the Crown Prince¡¯s grave transgressions. The Emperor could not tolerate the Crown Prince¡¯s desire to harm the Third Prince.
The Third Prince¡¯s life had been marked by misfortune; he had lost his mother at a young age and had struggled with frail health throughout his childhood. In order to survive, he had beenpelled to distance himself from his family and take refuge in the Buddhist Sect. The Crown Prince¡¯s unwillingness to relinquish a younger brother who was already struggling for survival was a testament to the harshness of his heart.
Typically, in thepetition for the throne, it wasmon for princes to employ every means possible to eliminate their rivals. However, the Third Prince was a unique case, as he posed no genuine threat to the Crown Prince¡¯s position as the heir. Given the Crown Prince¡¯s status, could he not afford to be more magnanimous?
The General Manor still harbored lingering resentment over the incident in which the Third Prince was pursued. They believed that the Emperor disyed favoritism toward the Crown Prince and suspected the pursuers were remnants of the previous dynasty. They questioned why the remnants would target the seemingly inconsequential Third Prince, who was in recuperation outside, rather than making an attempt on the Crown Prince¡¯s life.
The Emperor was keenly aware of these inquiries and shared the sentiment that he had failed the Third Prince. If he chose to spare the Crown Prince in this matter, the General Manor was likely to voice more objections.
The Emperor grappled with heightened guilt toward the Third Prince.
However, disciplining the Crown Prince would likely spark renewed conflict between the Empress Dowager and the influential Public House. The Emperor recognized that the current predicament was challenging to resolve and also considered potential futureplications.
From the perspective of the Crown Prince, eliminating the Third Prince seemed justifiable. As the Third Prince¡¯s health continued to improve, there was the looming possibility of him bing a formidable rival to the Crown Prince. If a power struggle erupted between the two brothers for the throne in the future, particrly when the Emperor was on his deathbed, the repercussions could be beyond imagination.
Upon receiving news of the incident involving the fifth princess, and learning that the emperor had ced the crown prince, the empress, and the fifth princess under house arrest in the pce, the Empress Dowager promptly sought an audience with the emperor. It had been three days since the unfortunate event unfolded, and the emperor had maintained strict secrecy regarding the matter, keeping it concealed from the Public House and the General Manor, as well as the Empress Dowager, until this point.
Fuming with anger, the Empress Dowager demanded, ¡°Your Majesty, why have you confined their mother and the other two within the pce? I demand the truth!¡±
The emperor feltpelled to disclose the actions of the fifth princess and the crown prince to the Empress Dowager.
In response, the Empress Dowager scolded, ¡°Qin Zhenzhen is undoubtedly a source of trouble. She has brought cmity upon the country and its people!¡± The Emperor was left momentarily speechless.
The Empress Dowager went on, saying, ¡°To merely im that she has brought disaster to the country and its people is an understatement. Had she not appeared so alluring, why would the Crown Prince be so infatuated with her? If the Crown Prince had no feelings for her, he would never have encouraged the fifth princess to partake in such actions. This entire debacle is Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s doing!¡±
The emperor found himself increasingly perplexed by the situation.
The Empress Dowager¡¯s response was equally baffling.
The emperor attempted to reason with her, ¡°Mother, what about the fifth princess? The empress has allowed her to reach such a disgraceful state, bringing shame to the royal family. Should I take action against the empress?¡± However, the Empress Dowager shook her head and emphatically stated, ¡°The
Emperor must not punish the Empress! She acts in the Emperor¡¯s best interests!
Chapter 450 - 450: Why Are You So Biased?
Chapter 450 - 450: Why Are You So Biased?
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The Empress Dowager persisted, exining, ¡°It¡¯s not that the fifth princess didn¡¯t provide proper guidance; rather, it¡¯s an inherent trait of her character.
This has nothing to do with the Empress.¡±
Given that the Empress was her own niece, it was only natural for her to defend her.
The Empress Dowager further noted, ¡°Remarkably, the fifth princess bears a strong resemnce to her father and brother, both of whom possess an especially fervent disposition.¡±
The emperor¡¯s countenance shifted, and he interjected, ¡°Mother, you¡¯ve misunderstood!¡±
The mention of the fifth princess¡¯s father and brother alluded to himself and the crown prince. While they may have had numerous romantic liaisons, the emperor and the crown prince were men, not women.
The Empress Dowager retorted with a sneer, ¡°Your Majesty, what¡¯s the distinction?¡±
¡°Your Majesty, are you suggesting that her primary advantage is being born as a woman? When this incidentes to light, the woman may bring shame upon the pce, while a man can continue to serve the royal family.¡± The emperor¡¯s face flushed with embarrassment.
The Empress Dowager continued, ¡°Regarding the Empress¡¯s motivation to support the Crown Prince¡¯s false testimony, there is a rationale behind it.¡±
¡°Recall what I did when you were vying for the throne. Then you¡¯ll understand Her Majesty¡¯s perspective.¡±
¡°Before your ascent to the throne, I, too,mitted many deeds that stained her hands, all for your sake.¡±
¡°It¡¯s not as though you haven¡¯t eliminated your own brother!¡±
The emperor¡¯splexion grew even redder.
The Empress Dowager was speaking the unvarnished truth. In their ruthless struggle for the throne, he had been willing to resort to the most malevolent actions. Failure to eliminate one¡¯s rival often meant one¡¯s own demise.
The Empress Dowager pointed out to the Emperor, ¡°You, too, do not wish to see the General Manor¡¯s influence grow, do you?¡±
¡°In that context, it is not unreasonable to allow the Crown Prince to exert authority over the Third Prince¡¡±
The Emperor interjected icily, ¡°He is not merely asserting authority over the
Third Prince; he desires the Third Prince¡¯s demise!¡±
¡°Mother, the Third Prince is also your biological grandson. Why this apparent partiality?¡±
¡°Recall what you did to the Third Prince¡¯s mother back then!¡±
¡°I don¡¯t wish to entertain the idea that you might advocate the execution of all my sons solely to ensure the Crown Prince¡¯s smooth path to the throne in the future!¡±
¡°That¡¯s not what I intended¡¡±
¡°Mother, let us cease this discussion!¡±
¡°Guards! Escort the Empress Dowager back!¡±
Upon learning of the Third Prince¡¯s imprisonment within the pce, Old General Chen, representing the General Manor, personally sought an audience with the Emperor. His countenance betrayed his evident frustration.
¡°Your Majesty, what offense has the Third Princemitted to warrant his confinement in the pce?¡± Old General Chen inquired with a stern tone.
The Emperor offered an apologetic smile and responded, ¡°Minister Chen, why do your words carry such a harsh tone? The Third Prince is not only your great-grandson but also my son. I would not restrict his liberty without just cause. I have summoned him and the Crown Prince to the pce because there are matters that require rification.¡±
Despite the exnation, Old General Chen¡¯s expression remained less than cordial. ¡°Is this rted to the incident in the imperial courtyard?¡± he asked.
The Emperor shook his head emphatically. ¡°Absolutely not! I hold no suspicion that the Third Prince had any involvement in that matter.¡±
¡°Minister Chen, I would kindly request that you return to the General Manor. I assure you, the Third Prince¡¯s safety is not in jeopardy.¡±
Upon receiving this assurance from the Emperor, Old General Chen departed the pce.
Soon afterward, the elderly duke, the Empress Dowager¡¯s elder brother and the Emperor¡¯s father-inw, arrived to meet with the Emperor. The Public House had yed a significant role in securing the Emperor¡¯s ascent to the throne, and the elderly duke had been a paramount contributor.
Like Old General Chen, he was among the few individuals unafraid to express their discontent in the Emperor¡¯s presence.
¡°Your Majesty, why have the Empress and His Highness the Crown Prince been restricted to the pce?¡±
Chapter 451 - 451: Announcement
Chapter 451 - 451: Announcement
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The Emperor shared the investigation¡¯s findings with the elderly duke. The elderly duke¡¯s sentiments echoed those of the Empress Dowager, but his manner of expression was more tactful, given his status as a minister. He acknowledged that he couldn¡¯tpare to the Empress Dowager in influence.
The elderly duke earnestly reminded the Emperor, ¡°Your Majesty, do you still recall that before your ascension to the throne, you ordered the death of the General Manor¡¯s grandson? I yed a significant role in that matter.¡±
The General Manor¡¯s grandson, who was also the Emperor¡¯s fifth brother, had been a formidable contender in the session battle. With the assistance of the elderly duke, the Emperor had orchestrated an assassination against him. At the time, the General Manor had suspicions butcked concrete evidence pointing to the Emperor¡¯s involvement. Eventually, by marrying a youngdy from the General Manor who bore the Third Prince, some tensions were alleviated in their rtionship.
However, following the death of the Third Prince¡¯s mother and the ongoing mystery surrounding the Third Prince¡¯s health, the General Manor¡¯s faith in the Emperor had waned significantly. A hint of animosity had even developed. The Emperor nodded in acknowledgment and admitted, ¡°I do remember.¡±
The elderly duke continued, ¡°Then you canprehend the reasons behind the Crown Prince¡¯s actions. He had no choice but to prioritize his goals over fraternal bonds.¡¯
After a brief moment of reflection, the elderly duke proposed a new idea. ¡°I believe that you should not overly favor the Third Prince. It might be wise to send him outside for training.¡±
¡°I should refrain from remaining in the capital and overseeing his affairs.¡±
¡°I¡¯m concerned that if the Third Prince gains influence, it could lead to divisions within the court.¡±
¡°You yourself might even be his adversary.¡±
The Emperor found the elderly duke¡¯s words to be reasonable. Given that the Third Prince had no desire to remain in the capital, it seemed prudent to permit him to go where he wished, thereby removing him from the tumultuous political environment.
¡°Very well, I will arrange for the Third Prince¡¯s departure tomorrow.¡±
The elderly duke offered a reminder, ¡°You must also consider the Crown Prince and the Empress.¡±
As for how to handle the fifth princess, that matter was not his concern. The Public House¡¯s primary objective was to protect the Crown Prince.
However, the Emperor did not immediately acquiesce to the elderly duke¡¯s suggestion regarding the departure of the Crown Prince and the Empress. ¡°We can discuss their situation in a few days.¡±
The enigmatic ck Panther Hall posed a considerable challenge, as it remained well-concealed. Eradicating its members was a daunting task, and the Emperor couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of frustration when considering the possibility that the master of the ck Panther Hall might be a remnant of the previous dynasty.
Two dayster, the royal family released the investigation results and issued a public announcement.
The announcement revealed that the fifth princess had been set up by unknown parties, and she had no connection to the man in question.
Concerning the allegations surrounding the fifth princess¡¯s tumultuous personal life, the ims were discredited as baseless rumors.
It was disclosed that the party responsible for harming the fifth princess was none other than the ck Panther Hall, which had connections to remnants of the previous dynasty. Their actions were, in reality, a provocative act against the imperial family.
The fifth princess vowed that, once the culprit was apprehended and brought to justice, she would willingly embrace a life of monasticism, dedicating herself to the path of virtue.
The public announcement effectively elicited sympathy for the fifth princess from a portion of the popce.
Conversations circted widely.
¡°We spent days discussing the fifth princess¡¯s supposed chaotic personal life, but now the truth hase to light.¡±
¡°It turns out the fifth princess is the true victim here.¡± ¡°This just shows that we shouldn¡¯t readily believe in rumors.¡± ¡°The fifth princess has truly been gued by misfortune.¡±
¡°She was the unfortunate target of the schemers.¡±
¡°In reality, this is not the fifth princess¡¯s fault, and there¡¯s no need for her to take vows as a nun.¡±
¡°But the official announcement states that the fifth princess has made that decision.¡±
In the midst of these discussions, there were individuals who found amusement in the situation.
The royal family seemed to possess the remarkable ability to alter the narrative entirely.
People recalled the fifth princess embracing the handsome man at the time, praising his performance and dering, ¡°You were outstanding today. I¡¯ve decided to keep you!¡±
Her previous harsh words now seemed ironic, given her current status as a victim..
Chapter 452 - 452: Competition
Chapter 452 - 452: Competition
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After a few days of public discourse, the scandal that had unfolded within the royal family¡¯s courtyard lost its appeal and interest began to wane.
The emperor decided to put an end to the Third Prince¡¯s confinement. He fabricated a story, exining that the matter concerning the fifth princess had been investigated by the ck Panther Hall. In this narrative, it was a case of misunderstanding, as the Crown Prince and the Empress had wrongly used the Third Prince.
The Emperor borated that, following the incident with the fifth princess, the Crown Prince had been incensed and had instructed his subordinates to apprehend the mastermind within three days, threatening them with grave consequences if they failed to do so. To save themselves, the Crown Prince¡¯s subordinates embarked on a series of arrests and interrogations. By a stroke of luck, they apprehended Cheng Feng, who had already been bribed by the ck Panther Hall. Cheng Feng swiftly confessed to the Third Prince, implicating him and Su Bin in the scheme.
The master of the ck Panther Hall was revealed to be a remnant of the previous dynasty. Their objective was to foment discord between the Third Prince and the Crown Prince for their own gain.
The Emperor feltpelled to rify this with the Third Prince. For the Third Prince, who had been unjustly confined for many days, it was a deeply vexing experience.
Although the Crown Prince and the Empress had falsely used him, his father had casually attributed it to a misunderstanding. However, the Third Prince was keenly aware that it was far from a mere misunderstanding.
He surmised that his father had uncovered the truth but was unwilling to hold the Crown Prince and the Empress ountable. Not only did he have no intention of punishing them, but he also had no ns to publicize the fact that they had wronged him.
The Third Prince felt a profound sense of disappointment and disillusionment in his father.
He recognized that both the Empress Dowager and the Empress belonged to the influential Public House, which had yed a significant role in his father¡¯s rise to power.
The Emperor held a strong affinity for the Public House and frequently exhibited clemency towards them. This led the Third Prince to harbor suspicions that the Public House had some form of leverage over his father.
Despite the Emperor¡¯s disapproval of the Empress and the frequent missteps of the Crown Prince, he had no intentions of recing the Crown Prince. This decision was influenced by the Public House¡¯s unwillingness to consent to such a change, as well as the potential interference from the Empress Dowager.
It¡¯s possible that the Emperor, in recognition of his perceived shorings toward the Third Prince, took steps to rectify the situation. Upon releasing the Third Prince from confinement, he allocated a substantial sum from the national treasury and issued a decree to facilitate the reconstruction of the Third Prince¡¯s residence. This task was entrusted to the General Manor.
However, the General Manor did not receive the Emperor¡¯s gift with satisfaction.
Following his release from confinement, the Third Prince visited the General Manor to inform his great-grandfather of the Emperor¡¯s actions, repeating the words of the Emperor.
Old General Chen expressed his indignation, eximing, ¡°This is deceit!¡±
The Third Prince¡¯s maternal grandfather, General Chen, along with his uncle and cousins, were still stationed at the border, leading troops to safeguard the realm. While the General Manor remained loyal to the royal family, the Emperor harbored concerns about potential rebellion from them.
The Third Prince¡¯s mother had met an inexplicable demise, and the Third Prince had suffered from a severe illness. It was evident that someone had administered a slow poison, yet the Emperor had never offered an exnation. In essence, the Emperor had shielded the Empress and the Crown Prince from scrutiny.
The Third Prince hade of age, but the Empress and the Crown Prince had resumed their attacks against him, even though they had wronged him in the past. Surprisingly, the Emperor chose not to delve further into the matter.
Old General Chen¡¯s frustration was palpable as he pounded his walking stick on the ground, admonishing, ¡°This is preposterous. The Emperor¡¯s bias is far too pronounced!¡±
The Third Prince remained silent, pondering the fact that the Public House was his father¡¯s family, after all.
¡°Recall your Fifth Imperial Uncle¡¯s passing¡¡±
The memory weighed heavily on Old General Chen.
¡°At that time, your Fifth Imperial Uncle had no interest in that position, yet they still wouldn¡¯t spare him.¡±
¡°Sometimes, it¡¯s not that you want topete for something, but you are left with no choice.¡±
The Third Prince understood his great-grandfather¡¯s implications.
¡°Great-grandfather, I havee to a decision.. Since peaceful coexistence appears unattainable, and we seem destined for confrontation and rivalry, we may as well embrace thepetition!¡±
Chapter 453 - 453: Peace
Chapter 453 - 453: Peace
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Under the influence of the Empress Dowager and the Public House, the
Emperor decided to lift the confinement of the Empress and the Crown Prince.
However, he sternly cautioned the Empress, ¡°The harem should not involve itself in politics, let alone conspire against a prince! Remember my words.¡± ¡°If such a situation arises again, do not me me for taking drastic measures.¡± ¡°Starting today, you will be confined to the harem for three months.¡±
The Empress did not dare to voice any objections. She understood that her and the Crown Prince¡¯s exoneration this time wasrgely thanks to the Empress Dowager and the Public House.
Their actions this time had not been coordinated with the Public House in advance, and as a result, she faced severe censure from her father and brother. They cautioned her that, should such a situation ur again, they would not shield her.
Their primary concern was the protection of the Crown Prince.
The Empress harbored her own grievances as well. She concealed this from the Public House for two reasons. Firstly, she did not want her family to learn about the fifth princess¡¯s disgraceful actions, which were far frommendable.
Secondly, she was deeply swayed by the Crown Prince¡¯s influence. The Crown Prince had persuaded her that Cheng Feng¡¯s confession was sufficient to implicate the Third Prince while minimizing the consequences for the fifth princess.
As a mother, she cherished her daughter immensely, leading her to readily ept the Crown Prince¡¯s words. She now grasped the Crown Prince¡¯s true intentions, which involved implicating her in a false narrative to secure the full support of the Public House and the Empress Dowager.
They believed that, with the unwavering backing of the Public House and the Empress Dowager, they might seed in entirely eliminating the Third Prince.
Unforeseen by the Public House and the Empress Dowager, someone had submitted all the evidence to the emperor, resulting in their unexpected defeat.
The Public House issued a stern warning to the Crown Prince, cautioning him against any further reckless actions in private, emphasizing that he must bear the consequences of his actions.
In response, the Crown Prince promised not to repeat such mistakes, deeply concerned that a string of irrational actions might lead to the Public House and the Empress Dowager abandoning him. After all, he was not the sole grandson of the Public House.
In a bid to strengthen the Empress¡¯s position, the Public House introduced another girl into the pce after the Empress fell out of favor. This girl was the younger sister of one of the Empress¡¯s concubines, born to a concubine of the old duke and upying a lowly status.
She had garnered favor from the emperor and was fortunate enough to conceive a prince. However, her life was tragically cut short during childbirth. The Seventh Prince she had given birth to, who was now eight years old, was raised under the Empress¡¯s name.
The Seventh Prince disyed remarkable intelligence from a young age, and the Public House held him in high regard. The Empress Dowager also doted on him immensely. He was considered a contingency candidate for the crown prince position.
The Empress was aware of the Crown Prince¡¯s longstanding animosity towards the Seventh Prince. If the Seventh Prince had not been a young child, and the Crown Prince had perceived him as a threat, he would have targeted him much earlier. Raised within the pce, he had been groomed to be ruthless from a young age, as that was the path to securing ultimate victory.
The emperor did not show clemency to the fifth princess. Instead, he sentenced her to a lifetime of residing in the temple hall, where she would consume vegetarian fare and engage in perpetual prayers to Buddha.
The fifth princess was overwhelmed with sorrow, weeping uncontrobly. In private, she resorted to threats against the Crown Prince, warning him that unless he devised a means to rescue her, she would divulge all the ssified information to the public.
The Crown Prince had no choice but to console her, pledging that he would find a way to secure her freedom once the current crisis had subsided.
The Empress also assured her, saying, ¡°You are my flesh and blood, and you share a bond of blood with your brother. Neither your mother nor your brother will allow you to spend the remainder of your life alone in the temple hall.¡± ¡°You mustn¡¯t be rash. If you make this matter public,¡±
Ultimately, the Crown Prince and the Empress managed to pacify the fifth princess, and the tempestuous episode seemed to have settled on the surface.
Yet beneath the veneer of tranquility, the covert struggle between the Public House and the General Manor had intensified..
Chapter 454 - 454: No problem
Chapter 454 - 454: No problem
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To avoid raising suspicion, the Third Prince refrained from privately inviting Su Bin. However, he disguised himself and, apanied by his master, Lin Yue, headed to Su Bin¡¯s residence.
The Third Prince had already shared the information Su Bin had revealed with Lin Yue. Their bond was akin to that of a father and son, and he concealed nothing from his master, often seeking Lin Yue¡¯s counsel on various matters. ¡°Master, do you believe that Su Bin told us theplete truth?¡± he inquired.
Lin Yue shook his head, saying, ¡°You should understand that he probably shared only a portion of the truth.¡±
¡°We may have underestimated the strength of the Dragon Phoenix Hall, Su Bin¡¯s capabilities, and his skills as an actor.¡±
¡°He was well aware that the Crown Prince and the fifth princess nned to frame him, and he swiftly engaged the ck Panther Hall once they epted the mission. This underscores the Dragon Phoenix Hall¡¯s formidable influence.¡±
¡°Despite knowing that the Crown Prince and the fifth princess conspired against him, he remained fearless. Su Bin promptly furnished the Emperor with all the evidence when they wrongly used you, leaving no trace.¡± ¡°That¡¯s what makes him so formidable.¡±
¡°But there¡¯s a reason why Su Bin conceals the whole truth from us. Just as we never entirely regarded him as one of us.¡± ¡°In times of crisis, we prioritize our own interests over aiding him.¡±
¡°Several times, he has strived to save himself.¡±
¡°I understand that this wasn¡¯t your intention. You had no other option,¡± the Third Prince empathetically remarked.
He had a team of advisors arranged by the General Manor, which sometimes meant that he couldn¡¯t unterally make decisions.
Lin Yue added, ¡°That¡¯s why we can¡¯t me Su Bin for not beingpletely forthright with us.¡±
The Third Prince fell silent for a moment before stating, ¡°I don¡¯t hold it against him. Our sincerity wascking.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s sister, Su Ning, had saved his life, and Su Bin had willingly approached them. In his current precarious situation, where the Crown Prince posed a constant threat, Su Bin had shown faith in him and agreed to coborate. Based on these factors, they should assist Su Bin if he ever found himself in trouble.
However, the Third Prince bore a heavy responsibility and limited choices. Finally, he asked, ¡°Master, do you think Su Bin is deserving of our trust?¡±
Lin Yue contemted for a moment. ¡°I¡¯m not entirely certain. We need to meet with him again.¡±
The Third Prince nodded in agreement. ¡°Agreed.¡±
The master and disciple soon arrived at Su Bin¡¯s residence.
The Third Prince expressed his gratitude to Su Bin. ¡°Thank you, Prime Su, for providing all the evidence to the emperor, which cleared my name.¡±
Su Bin offered a smile and replied, ¡°It¡¯s my duty. After all, we¡¯re cooperating, aren¡¯t we?¡±
¡°Besides, obtaining that evidence was a straightforward task.¡±
¡°If you truly wish to show your gratitude, assist me in covering the fee for the information I supplied to the Dragon Phoenix Hall.¡±
Su Bin made a deliberate effort to present himself as someone who cherished money above all else in front of the Third Prince and Lin Yue. It was essential for them to believe that he had ulterior motives and a profound love for money.
He acted as though he just couldn¡¯t get enough of it.
The Third Prince readily agreed, saying, ¡°It¡¯s the least I can do.¡±
Lin Yue handed Su Bin a stack of banknotes and asked, ¡°Primus Su, is this sum sufficient?¡±
Su Bin took the banknotes and replied, ¡°This should suffice.¡±
The Third Prince ventured further, ¡°Prime Su, our coboration can extend even beyond this.¡±
Su Bin agreed, ¡°I¡¯m open to it.¡±
No matter how far they took their cooperation, he was determined not to reveal his true identity as the Hall Master of the Dragon Phoenix Hall..
Chapter 455 - 455: Employment
Chapter 455 - 455: Employment
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The emperor let out a sigh of relief after sessfully resolving theplications arising from the fifth princess¡¯s embarrassment.
His next task involved appointing official positions to the top ten candidates from the capital examination, in ordance with established tradition. These candidates were eligible to serve in the imperial court as officials, with official positions spanning from the sixth rank to the fourth rank. Some exceptionally fortunate individuals even earned direct entry to the third-grade positions.
The fifth princess¡¯s actions had been influenced by Su Bin, leading the members of the Public House to view him as a troublemaker who was unsuitable for an official role in the capital. They rmended sending him to a remote area to serve as a county magistrate. Alternatively, if he were to stay in the capital as an official, they suggested assigning him to an idle department with a sixth-grade position. This aligns with the Crown Prince¡¯s initial goal of suppressing Su Bin, stemming from thetter¡¯s refusal to be manipted by the Crown Prince and the Public House¡¯s belief that Su Bin supported the Third Prince.
However, the emperor held a different perspective. Not only did he harbor no disapproval of Su Bin, but he also sought to ce him in a prominent role. This decision conflicted with the Public House¡¯s stance, but the emperor remained steadfast in his choice. He believed that Su Bin¡¯s talents, as well as his connection to Qin Zhenzhen, warranted a significant position.
In the end, the emperor prevailed and appointed Su Bin to a pivotal role within the Court of Judicial Review, naming him the deputy minister. Su Bin¡¯s official position was at the prestigious third-grade level.
The Public House seethed with anger over what they saw as a coveted position.
They were determined to ensure that their chosen candidates secured this role.
With the retirement of the seasoned generals from the Court of Judicial Review, Su Bin had stepped into the role of deputy. As anticipated, when the officials of the Court of Judicial Review retired, Su Bin seamlessly assumed their responsibilities.
The Emperor received a formal request from General Chen to meet with him at the pce.
Given his sense of obligation to the Third Prince, the Emperor acquiesced to Old General Chen¡¯s plea. However, an unexpected turn of events urred when Old General Chen presented the Emperor with a confidential letter.
¡°Somebody anonymously delivered this to the General Manor. I couldn¡¯t keep it concealed, Your Majesty. Please examine its contents,¡± Old General Chen exined.
With a sense of trepidation, the Emperor epted the secret missive. The letter disclosed startling revtions about the fifth princess¡¯s tumultuous personal life, herplicity with the Crown Prince in framing Su Bin, and the injusticesmitted against the Third Prince by the Crown Prince and the Empress following the incident. The letter meticulously detailed all the facts and events surrounding the matter. It also mentioned that a duplicate had been provided to the Emperor.
Upon discovering that the Crown Prince and the Empress had conspired against the Third Prince, the Emperor refrained from punishing them, opting instead to fabricate a false story to deceive the Third Prince.
¡°Minister Chen, you must not lend credence to the ims in this letter!¡± the Emperor asserted, unwilling to acknowledge his actions. ¡°They are attempting to sow discord!¡±
Simultaneously, the Emperor¡¯s anger grew.
The General Manor¡¯s audacity knew no bounds! How dare they present him with such an incriminating letter! He couldn¡¯t help but wonder if it had been forged by the General Manor.
However, Old General Chen nodded in agreement and responded, ¡°Your Majesty¡¯s judgment is sound. Initially, I had my doubts as well. Now, I am even more skeptical.¡±
¡°The Third Prince is your own flesh and blood, and Your Majesty would never disy such bias.¡±
¡°But what perplexes me is the identity of the letter¡¯s author.¡±
¡°What¡¯s the purpose of this letter?¡±
¡°Can we truly be certain that someone is deliberately sowing discord?¡± inquired Old General Chen.
¡°Should we readily embrace their provocations?¡± he continued, skeptical of the letter¡¯s authenticity.
¡°I don¡¯t intend to present this letter to the Emperor as a demand for an exnation. Instead, I hope the Emperor can dispatch someone to conduct an inquiry.¡±
¡°Who would be so idle as to draft such a letter?¡± he wondered aloud.
The Emperor¡¯s countenance softened somewhat as he responded, ¡°Leave this matter in my hands.¡±
¡°Minister Chen, please, take your leave.¡±
¡°Minister Chen, you¡¯re in your twilight years. There¡¯s no need to visit the pce without cause. My heart aches at the thought of you exerting yourself.¡±
The Emperor was cautioning Old General Chen against unnecessary visits to the pce. His burdens were already plentiful..
Chapter 456 - 456: It’s Time to End It
Chapter 456 - 456: It¡¯s Time to End It
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After seeing Old General Chen off, the Emperor immersed himself in contemtion for an extended period. Old General Chen¡¯s words echoed persistently in his thoughts.
¡°The Third Prince is your own flesh and blood.¡±
Indeed, the Third Prince was his own son, and the Emperor couldn¡¯t bear to see him deprived of a father¡¯s love, especially since he no longer had a mother to provide that care.
These considerations stirred the Emperor¡¯s emotions, prompting him to summon the Crown Prince to the pce. He broached the matter directly, asking, ¡°Do you believe that the Third Prince poses a threat to your im to the throne, leading you to contemte his removal?¡±
The Crown Prince swiftly shook his head, responding, ¡°Father, I never intended any harm to Third Brother¡¡±
The Emperor cut him off sternly. ¡°Enough of these arguments!¡±
¡°Let me make this clear: starting today, cease all actions that may harm the Third Prince! ¡±
¡°If you cannotply with this simple directive, do not assume that I will hesitate to rece you!¡±
¡°I¡¯m warning you once more: dispel any thoughts regarding Qin Zhenzhen immediately!¡±
¡°Furthermore, Su Bin possesses extraordinary talent. If you believe that only those who acquiesce to your influence can upy significant positions, you need not maintain the role of Crown Prince any longer!¡±
Su Bin had initially anticipated being assigned to a remote region as an official, so he was surprised to find himself in a prominent position in the capital.
¡°Dear, what do you think about me upying this significant role?¡± he inquired.
Previously, Su Bin had believed that obtaining a high-ranking position in the capital was crucial for aiding the Third Prince in his quest to outshine the Crown Prince. However, after the recent garden event, his perspective underwent a shift.
He began to see the merits of serving as an official in a more distant area, far removed from the constant intrigues of the royal family.
Qin Zhenzhen offered her perspective, ¡°Ultimately, each option has its own advantages.¡±
From his current third-rank official post, Su Bin was poised to ascend to the position of the Court of Judicial Review¡¯s minister, achieving third-rank status. If he performed capably and avoided significant errors during his tenure, he was unlikely to be removed from office.
The Court of Judicial Review held a role akin to the modern Supreme Court, and its minister was the highest-ranking judge. In this role, Su Bin had the potential to wield influence, taking a stand against corrupt officials and benefiting the people, all while supporting the Third Prince in challenging the Crown Prince¡¯s authority.
However, the drawback was that as a capital official, both Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen would remain within the city. This would expose them to the unpredictable schemes of the vtile Crown Prince, making it difficult to guard against potential threats.
Choosing to serve in a remote area offered tranquility. Moreover, it would permit them to distance Su Ning from the Third Prince, further separating her from any political entanglements.
Su Bin had already worked diligently to advance his father¡¯s interests as a high school Primus. In a remote posting, it would be more challenging to assist the
Third Prince directly, relying instead on information from the Dragon Phoenix Hall.
However, the Third Prince possessed the qualities of a protagonist, and victory against the Crown Prince seemed inevitable.
With a smile, Su Bin said, ¡°Dear, I ept this arrangement with enthusiasm.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in agreement. ¡°Yes.¡±
¡°In that case, I¡¯ll put forth my best effort and strive to be an exemry official! ¡±
Initially, Su Bin had held a somewhat favorable opinion of the emperor. Apart from his licentious tendencies, he believed the emperor possessed some redeeming qualities and was worth supporting.
However, Su Bin¡¯s disillusionment with the emperor came when he witnessed the way the emperor handled matters involving the Crown Prince, the Empress, and the unjust treatment of the Third Prince.
He had underestimated the influence of the Public House, which held even the emperor in its sway. In such a climate, toppling the Crown Prince proved to be an exceedingly daunting task.
Nheless, Su Bin recognized that staying in the capital meant confronting these challenges. He was resolved to endure them.
His ultimate goal was to bring down the Crown Prince, ensuring a peaceful life for himself and his wife.
¡°Now, it¡¯s time to address the issue with the Marquis Mansion.¡±
After ascending to the position of high school Primus, the Old Marquis had met with Su Bin several times, suggesting they set a date to return to the Marquis Mansion. However, Su Bin had refrained from agreeing, citing his uncertain future..
Chapter 457 - 457: What Conditions Do You Want?
Chapter 457 - 457: What Conditions Do You Want?
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The news of Su Bin¡¯s appointment as the deputy minister of the Court of Judicial Review quickly disseminated throughout the capital.
At Su Bin¡¯s residence, well-wishers came to offer their congrattions and establish connections. The continuous influx of guests resulted in a substantial pile of gifts.
Declining gifts entirely was not an option.
Being an official in the capital, it was imperative for Su Bin to grasp the customs and etiquette of the officialdom, ensuring a swift integration into this world.
However, Su Bin had instituted a personal guideline: he would not ept gifts of substantial value. Even if he did ept such a gift, he would promptly reciprocate with a gift of simr worth. This practice was known as reciprocation.
Su Bin¡¯s rationale was firmly grounded in his understanding of the responsibilities entailed in his role at the Dali Temple. He believed it was imperative to maintain the self-awareness of an official. epting valuable items carelessly could lead to unwarranted suspicions of potential corruption, potentially disappointing the emperor if such practices were discovered.
The Court of Judicial Review served as the nation¡¯s highest investigative agency, typically handling significant cases involving civil and military officials, nobles, and generals. It was conceivable that Su Bin might assume control of the Court of Judicial Review in the not-too-distant future.
These guests offered gifts in advance, not only as a gesture of goodwill but also to assess Su Bin¡¯s character and determine his ease of interaction. Furthermore, it was a strategic move to cultivate strong rtionships in preparation for potential futureplications.
Su Bin did not outright decline the gifts, signifying his approachability, but his reluctance to ept highly valuable items demonstrated his meticulousness.
The emperor had assigned an observer to closely monitor Su Bin¡¯s situation. This entailed tracking the number and identities of the visitors, the quantity and nature of their gifts, and the duration of their visits. This information was ryed to the emperor daily.
While Su Bin did not outright refuse gifts, his insistence on avoiding expensive ones was considered a standard practice.
Nheless, the Emperor remained keen on observing Su Bin¡¯s performance as an official in the time ahead.
The Old Marquis had made several attempts to connect with Su Bin. On each asion, Su Bin artfully changed the subject, signaling his uncertainty about the future. His intention was clear: he would only acknowledge his ancestors once he had secured an appointment in the imperial court.
Recognizing the wisdom in Su Bin¡¯s approach, the Old Marquis chose to wait
patiently. After all, he had already waited for two years, so a few additional
days posed no inconvenience.
Following Su Bin¡¯s recent appointment, the Old Marquis received a letter from him, inviting a meeting at the capital¡¯s finest restaurant, Zhenzhen Restaurant.
This marked the first time that Su Bin had taken the initiative to invite the Old Marquis, a fact that filled the Old Marquis with great delight. He arrived at the restaurant early in anticipation.
Su Bin arrived at the restaurant to meet him alone.
¡°Grandpa,¡± Su Bin addressed the Old Marquis, marking the first time he had used this term.
Tears welled up in the Old Marquis¡¯s eyes, tears of joy. ¡°Good child, you¡¯ve finally decided to call me grandpa!¡±
¡°Did you arrange this meeting to discuss my return to the Marquis Mansion?¡± Su Bin inquired.
¡°Bin¡¯er, there¡¯s no need for you to worry about this. Leave everything to me. In five days, it will be a momentous asion. The Marquis Mansion will host a grand banquet, inviting all the civil and military officials. We want to show everyone that I have an exceptional grandson, while simultaneously paving the way for your future official career.¡±
Su Bin responded withposure, ¡°Grandpa, I addressed you as such because you are, indeed, my grandfather.¡±
¡°However, calling you grandpa doesn¡¯t imply that I¡¯ve agreed to return to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
The Old Marquis was taken aback. ¡°We discussed this before. You said you¡¯d return to the Marquis Mansion when your name graces the Golden Ranking List. Bin¡¯er, are you changing your mind?¡±
At this moment, it became evident that Su Bin had no inclination to return to the Marquis Mansion, despite their prior agreement.
Su Bin corrected him, ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. I did agree back then, but I said I¡¯d consider returning to the Marquis Mansion only once I be famous.¡± This was indeed the stance he had adopted previously.
The Old Marquis¡¯s face reddened with frustration.. ¡°Then do you have any conditions?¡±
Chapter 458 - 458: Investigating Old Cases
Chapter 458 - 458: Investigating Old Cases
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Su Bin shook his head, saying, ¡°Originally, I didn¡¯t have any conditions.¡±
¡°But now, I need to discuss something with you.¡±
¡°On my first day at the Court of Judicial Review, I went through the past records.¡±
The Old Marquis¡¯s heart skipped a beat. What was Su Bin hinting at?
Was he nning to reopen old wounds?
¡°I came across a document that my father had submitted to the Court of Judicial Review over twenty years ago, along with the associated information, ¡±
Su Bin continued.
¡°In it, he used a concubine of the Marquis Mansion of poisoning the Marquis Mansion¡¯s mistress.¡±
As expected, Su Bin was revisiting old grievances. The Old Marquis frowned and replied, ¡°Back then, there was insufficient evidence, and the Court of Judicial Review had already closed the case. Why would they still keep the evidence and information?¡±
Su Bin remainedposed. ¡°In fact, the case was never officially closed. My father had announced his permanent departure from the capital, effectively severing ties with the Marquis Mansion. Without a intiff and due to the scarcity of evidence, the Court of Judicial Review set the case and associated information aside.¡¯
¡°They likely expected my father to return to the capital, at which point they could resume their investigation. But since my father never returned, the case remained neither closed nor dismissed.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve carefully reviewed the evidence and rted information, and I believe that my father¡¯s suspicions were well-founded.¡±
¡°As a result, I am prepared to request the Emperor¡¯s approval to reopen this case and conduct a thorough investigation.¡±
The Old Marquis frowned, interjecting, ¡°Back then, the case was unresolved due to insufficient evidence. Now, so many years have passed, and there¡¯s little point in reopening it.¡±
¡°Moreover, the Emperor is unlikely to grant permission for such an investigation.¡±
Su Bin shook his head and replied, ¡°The significance of this investigation and whether the emperor permits it will only be clear once we initiate the process.¡±
¡°In truth, I¡¯m doing this to fulfill my father¡¯s wish.¡±
¡°Up until his death, my father maintained the belief that my grandmother¡¯s demise was not due to natural causes. He harbored resentment for being powerless and unable to uncover the truth. Consequently, he could only express his frustration in the most straightforward and helpless manner.¡±
¡°As a result, despite his financial struggles, he never considered returning to the capital. He concealed his background from us, providing only one piece of advice: to study diligently and make a name for myself.¡±
¡°Now, I understand the reason behind his counsel. He didn¡¯t merely want me to achieve recognition; he wanted me to possess the capability to revisit the case.¡±
The Old Marquis disyed a hint of annoyance. ¡°Are you implying that I was protecting her?¡±
Su Bin remainedposed. ¡°I never suggested that.¡±
¡°I also believe that you never did.¡±
¡°However, I implore you not to obstruct me.¡±
The Old Marquis¡¯s countenance darkened. ¡°What if the truth reveals that your grandmother passed away from natural causes?¡±
Su Bin dered, ¡°In such a scenario, I will keep the findings to myself, presenting them as a gesture to bring sce to my father¡¯s heart so he can find peace in the afterlife, no longer burdened by this matter.¡±
¡°But if the investigation reveals a connection between your concubine and my grandmother¡¯s death, then don¡¯t me me for disregarding your reputation!¡± The Old Marquis¡¯s expression darkened even further.
Su Bin continued, ¡°Your reputation holds significance, butpared to the injustice my father suffered, it pales inparison.¡±
Despite his anger, the Old Marquis had no recourse but to take his leave.
His visage betrayed evident displeasure. At that moment, he was certain of the righteousness of his decision.
However, now he was no longer certain.
He even contemted the possible oue: his wife¡¯s death was highly likely connected to his political ambition.
After receiving a reprimand and warning from the emperor, the Crown Prince¡¯s conduct became significantly more restrained.
He not only refrained from provoking Su Bin but also curbed any designs he may have had concerning Qin Zhenzhen, at least for the time being..
Chapter 459 - 459: Past (1)
Chapter 459 - 459: Past (1)
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The Old Marquis returned to the Marquis Mansion with a heavy heart.
He had not anticipated that Su Bin would be appointed as the deputy minister of the Court of Judicial Review. It reminded him of the evidence and information submitted by his father in the past.
He had never expected Su Bin to be resolute in his determination to reopen this case.
In a logical context, it seemed highly unlikely for such a ndestine matter urring within the confines of the mansion to be reported to the Court of Judicial Review.
At the time, the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir had made usations far and wide,
and it took three days for the Court of Judicial Review to even ept the
petition. They had merely acknowledged theint but had not conducted
a proper investigation.
Back then, most people assumed that the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir was going through a rebellious phase, and that the troublemaking would eventually subside.
The initial eptance of the petition was merely an attempt to pacify the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir and stabilize his emotions.
However, no one had anticipated that, after encountering resistance everywhere, the heir would firmly announce his decision to sever all ties with the Marquis Mansion and vanish from the capital forever.
The Old Marquis drifted back into the memories of that time.
During that period, apart from anger, he felt no remorse¡ªonly an overwhelming sense of frustration.
He despised himself for having such an unfilial son. He had resorted to such a drastic measure to cut ties with him, causing him immense embarrassment.
Back then, everyone who was aware of the situation discussed it.
¡°I had initially believed that the heir, having lost his mother, was consumed by grief, leading him to form extreme opinions. Icked concrete evidence and wished to sue the Marquis¡¯s concubine.¡±
¡°Now, it seems like there might have been some truth to it. Otherwise, the heir wouldn¡¯t have chosen to run away from home.¡±
Someone derided, ¡°Running away from home is just a temporary escapade. How can a pampered young master like him survive on his own?¡±
¡°I bet he¡¯ll return to the mansion in no time.¡±
In response, another voice countered, ¡°You¡¯re mistaken! He¡¯s made a decisive choice. He publicly renounced his status as the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir and severed all connections with it!¡± ¡°He even sent an official deration to the pce. This is no jest.¡±
¡°I believe he¡¯s deadly serious.¡±
Nevertheless, some individuals acknowledged the inherent uncertainty of the future.
¡°Even if he departed with a substantial fortune, given howvishly these young nobles squander money, it¡¯s likely to be exhausted within less than three years.¡±
¡°At that point, even without the heir¡¯s status, he can still return to the Marquis Mansion without apprehensions about food and shelter.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s see how it unfolds.
A year psed swiftly, and those who had been tracking the situation observed that the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir had not returned. The Marquis, exasperated by his actions, refrained fromunching an extensive search.
The prevalent sentiment remained that the heir would eventually retrace his steps.
Even the Marquis held onto this conviction, considering the heir was still a teenager without any survival skills. Once his wealth was depleted, the young man, unustomed to hardship, was expected to return to the Marquis Mansion.
Three years passed, and yet the heir of the Marquis Mansion remained conspicuously absent.
Some individuals began to express their astonishment. ¡°The heir of the Marquis Mansion is a remarkably resolute individual. It¡¯s been three years, and he still hasn¡¯t returned.¡±
Others spected, ¡°They must have run out of money by now, right? But there has been no news for three years. Could it be that the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir met an unfortunate end?¡±
¡°It wouldn¡¯t be surprising for him to perish outside. A young man with so much wealth and no guards around him¡ªsomeone might easily have taken his life for money.¡±
When the Old Marquis heard suchments, he grappled with mixed emotions, especially when he observed his other children leading a life that would be the envy of any offspring, receiving ample love from their mothers and fathers. A sense of guilt welled up within him..
Chapter 460 - 460: Past (2)
Chapter 460: Past (2)
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Years passed, five turning into ten, then stretching to twenty¡
The heir of the Marquis Mansion remained conspicuously absent from the capital, and there was still no information about his whereabouts.
Fewer and fewer people paid any heed to this matter, eventually consigning it to oblivion.
The Old Marquis¡¯s remorse deepened with each passing day.
He regretted his past indifference towards his eldest son. When his son had raised concerns about the cause of his mother¡¯s death, he shouldn¡¯t have angrily scolded him for causing trouble but rather exined the situation patiently.
His regret waspounded by the realization that his offspring from hiswful wife were far from admirable.
Their primary shoring was their mediocre abilities, coupled with arrogance and ack of awareness of the world¡¯s vastness.
One reason was their parents¡¯ indulgence. The other reasony in their maternal family¡¯s excessive pampering, as they had perpetually relied on the Marquis Mansion for support. Consequently, they catered to the Marquis Mansion¡¯s young masters and fawned upon them tirelessly.
However, as they grew older, they recognized their inability to assimte into the circle of aristocratic young masters. Due to their mother¡¯s concubine status, the Imperial Court did not officially acknowledge them, deeming them the offspring of concubines.
They weren¡¯t even qualified topete for the position of heir.
Among the capital¡¯s aristocratic young masters, concubine-born sons and daughters were the most derided, unless they possessed remarkable abilities or earned recognition through the imperial examination.
Observing the imminent extinction of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s hereditary title within his generation, the Old Marquis expended considerable efforts and dispatched individuals far and wide to locate his eldest son.
What unfolded next was something the Old Marquis had never anticipated.
Little did he anticipate that his amiable equal life was secretly dispatching agents to locate his eldest son. However, her intentions were starkly at odds with those of the Old Marquis.
Her aim was to sabotage Su Bin, the most capable of the lot, and obliterate his prospects. She intended to strip him of his qualifications as the heir to the Marquis Mansion.
Once Su Bin was ruined, she would undoubtedly turn her attention to his brothers next.
Under these circumstances, the Old Marquis faced limited options. To safeguard the Marquis Mansion¡¯s hereditary title, he might bepelled to utilize the ancestral death-exemption medal for an heir status from the emperor.
Upon her son¡¯s appointment as the heir and the Marquis, she would be elevated to the rank of a noblewoman.
Those aristocraticdies who had formerly looked down on her would then scramble to curry favor with her.
Indeed, the Marquis Mansion held considerable wealth, and the annual allocation from the Imperial Court was substantial.
However, she might be unaware that the Old Marquis had no intention of exchanging the death-exemption medal for an heir position. He was fully aware that the emperor would never grant it to him, even if he were willing to part with it. The Emperor eagerly awaited the Marquis Mansion¡¯s demise, anticipating its descent into a state without a sessor or Marquis. This would relieve the Imperial Court of a substantial financial burden.
If he were to trade the death-exemption medal, would he not court immediate demise if the emperorter found him guilty? Moreover, his ancestors had risked their lives to secure the death-exemption medal, a cherished family heirloom. Exchanging it would invite ridicule.
Consequently, the Old Marquis resolved to spend a significant sum of money to locate Su Bin and the others. Upon discovering their whereabouts, he realized how profoundly he had misjudged his equal life. He had long regarded her as kind and empathetic, incapable of harming anyone.
Confronted with the undeniable reality, he could no longer delude himself into believing in her inherent kindness or her reluctance to harm him and his family. The Old Marquis seethed with anger, yet hecked the resolve to probe the truth at that time..
Chapter 461 - 461: Past (3)
Chapter 461: Past (3)
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The Old Marquis seethed with anger, yet hecked the courage to investigate the truth at that time. He was deeply worried that his main wife had indeed been poisoned to death by her equal life. If that were the case, he couldn¡¯t find the courage to admit his earlier mistake.
A tree needs its bark, and a man needs his face. When his eldest son had left years ago, he hadn¡¯t initially disyed any guilt. His emotions were dominated by anger. He told everyone that he hadn¡¯t done anything wrong, vowing that his main wife could nevermit such an act. He insisted that his sole error was in failing to raise his son properly.
However, admitting his mistake and retracting his earlier words would be nothing short of humiliation. It would result in mockery, and his family would be thrown into chaos. If he confessed his error, he would undoubtedly punish his equal life and abandon her, which his children would fiercely oppose. The
Old Marquis had initially wanted Su Bin to be the heir to safeguard the Marquis Mansion¡¯s continued prosperity and secure their ess to the Imperial Court¡¯s benefits, ensuring his children¡¯s security and prosperity.
After much contemtion, the Old Marquis visited his equal life, who was confined in the temple hall. Every time he came, she would eagerly ask if she could be released. This time was no different. ¡°Marquis, can I go out now?¡± She inquired with excitement.
However, the Old Marquis, as he had done before, shook his head and reproached her. ¡°Everyone who does something wrong must bear the consequences!¡±
¡°You kept saying that you loved me and that you would die without me. I believed you and loved you and doted on you, but you went behind my back and harmed my biological grandson!¡± She cried as tears streamed down her face. She knelt on the ground and kowtowed. ¡°Marquis, I was wrong. I truly acknowledge my mistake. I don¡¯t want anything. I just want to go out and see our child.¡±
¡°And our grandchildren. They¡¯re still so young¡¡±
Despite her pleas, the Old Marquis remained unmoved. This time, he shook his head but did not reprimand her.
When he first discovered the truth about her harming Su Bin, he had been furious and had even pped her before locking her in the temple hall.
However, she was the woman he had adored for nearly forty years. He visited her every few days after she was locked up, witnessing her tears and regrets. Several times, he had contemted releasing her.
But the Old Marquis understood that he could not set her free. He had confined her in the temple hall for two reasons. Firstly, he was genuinely angry about her actions. Secondly, he wanted to send a message to Su Bin and the others.
He had once promised Su Bin that he would penalize her if there was concrete evidence of her framing Su Bin. He was torn, unable to bring himself to abandon her. Consequently, he had resorted to locking her up and isting her from the outside world.
The Old Marquis aimed to demonstrate to Su Bin that he would not show favoritism. He did not favor concubines over his main wife and did not condone the poisoning of his wife.
He believed that Su Bin would be content with his actions. However, Su Bin¡¯s satisfaction had merely been superficial, and it seemed he was even trying to borrow money from him.
Su Bin had always aspired to seek justice for his father. He had only just begun to umte influence and was still working on establishing his presence in the royal court when he decided to reopen the old case.
¡°Bao¡¯er¡¡±
Bao¡¯er was the affectionate nickname that the Old Marquis used to address his cherished equal life.
¡°Sob, sob, sob¡ Marquis, you¡¯ve finally called me Bao¡¯er. I thought I¡¯d never hear those two words again for the rest of my life.¡±
The Marquis¡¯s wife threw herself into the Old Marquis¡¯s arms.
He embraced her, and they held each other for a while.. Seizing the opportunity, she made a request, ¡°Marquis, I would like to go out and see our children¡ ¡°
Chapter 462 - 462: The Result Will Come Soon
Chapter 462: The Result Will Come Soon
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The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion aimed to portray herself as pitiable in hopes of melting the Old Marquis¡¯ heart.
Out of the blue, the Old Marquis asked her, ¡°Bao¡¯er, were you involved in Madam¡¯s demise in the past?¡±
Taken aback, she broke into tears once more, replying, ¡°If there¡¯s any connection, it¡¯s that I failed to take proper care of my sister!¡±
¡°Marquis, I¡¯ve repeated it 800 times¡ªI didn¡¯t poison sister. Are you still doubting me?¡±
The Old Marquis wore a grim expression. ¡°Don¡¯t deceive me!¡±
¡°Su Bin has approached the Court of Judicial Review. It won¡¯t be long before he bes a minister there. They must have informed you of this, haven¡¯t they?¡±
¡°Now, what I must convey is that Su Bin has reviewed the evidence and information his father submitted to the Court of Judicial Review, and he intends to present it to the emperor. He wishes to reopen this case.¡± ¡°If you truly had no involvement, it would ease my mind.¡±
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion concealed a smirk within. She wasn¡¯t concerned at all!
Decades ago, she had erased all traces of evidence. No amount of investigation would daunt her.
However, the Old Marquis pressed on, ¡°Su Bin is determined to reopen this case, and he is not merely making empty promises.¡±
¡°The emperor will swiftly grant special permission for the Court of Judicial Review to reinvestigate. The emperor is eager to ascertain your connection to Madam¡¯s death.¡±
¡°Because if there is indeed a link, Su Bin and the others will despise me and will never return to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°No one within the Marquis Mansion can be considered as an heir.¡±
¡°The Emperor finds this oue most agreeable, as he has long ceased providing financial support to our Marquis Mansion.¡±
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion was profoundly shaken. ¡°The King no longer wishes to provide us with financial support?¡±
¡°That¡¯s correct! I¡¯ve long ceased dwelling on it!¡±
As they discussed this matter, the Old Marquis grew increasingly incensed.
¡°Doesn¡¯t he realize that these honors and silver were secured at the cost of our ancestors¡¯ sacrifices?¡±
It was said that their forebears had nted the trees, and it was now the descendants enjoying the shade. The Marquis Mansion had only flourished over a few generations, and the Emperor had chosen to withhold support.
The Lady ot the Marquis¡¯ Mansion was even more astounded. ¡°Will the emperor possibly arrange for someone to fake Su Bin¡¯s death in an attempt to prove my sister¡¯s demise is connected to me?¡±
¡°Does that mean I¡¯ll face execution?¡±
The Old Marquis consoled her. ¡°No need to fret over that. If you¡¯re innocent, there¡¯s nothing to fear.¡±
¡°Su Bin is astute and perceptive. His discernment runs deeper than it appears.
He¡¯ll undoubtedly detect any attempts at deception.¡±
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion breathed a sigh of relief.
However, a short whileter, her heart skipped a beat once more.
It was also at Zhenzhen Restaurant where the Old Marquis had arranged to meet Su Bin.
¡°Bin¡¯er, I believe it¡¯s unwise for you to request the Emperor to reinvestigate this case.¡±
¡°The Emperor is eager for you topletely sever ties with me. This way, he won¡¯t need to allocate a substantial sum to the Marquis Mansion each year.¡±
¡°I¡¯m just concerned that the Emperor might seize the opportunity to bring forth a witness, testifying that your grandmother was poisoned by her, and that I shielded the murderer back then.¡±
¡°You might harbor resentment and choose to distance yourself from the
Marquis Mansion.¡±
Su Bin calmly responded, ¡°Please don¡¯t underestimate my intelligence. If I couldn¡¯t even recognize a false witness, the Emperor wouldn¡¯t have appointed me to the Court of Judicial Review.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry. Proceed with the case¡¯s reinvestigation. I promise to be impartial. ¡±
¡°Furthermore, I must inform you that I have the support of the Dragon Phoenix Hall. Their records span not just a few decades but even centuries.¡±
¡°Therefore, I¡¯ve made the decision to reopen the case. It won¡¯t be a challenging task.¡±
¡°We¡¯ll have our answers soon.¡±
Upon hearing this, the Old Marquis couldn¡¯t shake an unexinable sense of worry.
Please, let the truth remain concealed!
Chapter 463 - 463: For the Marquis Mansion
Chapter 463: For the Marquis Mansion
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The more the Old Marquis pondered the situation, the more frustrated he grew, prompting him to seek out his lifelongpanion.
¡°Darling, do you remember the Dragon Phoenix Hall from over 20 years ago?¡±
The Old Marquis¡¯s decades-old habits were hard to break. He had grown ustomed to treating his lifelongpanion as the most significant person in his life. Regardless of the circumstances, he needed to confide in and discuss matters with her.
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion pondered for a moment. ¡°Is that the Dragon Phoenix Hall known for delving into others¡¯ privacy and selling information for profit?¡±
The Old Marquis nodded. ¡°Exactly.¡±
¡°But wasn¡¯t the Dragon Phoenix Hall dismantled?¡±
The Old Marquis shook his head. ¡°I, too, believed it was destroyed, but I¡¯ve recently heard rumors that the Dragon Phoenix Hall seems to have resurfaced.¡±
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion was genuinely surprised. ¡°Did Butler Chen inform you?¡±
The Marquis had previously disclosed that the old steward in their household, Old Chen, yed a vital role in the Dragon Phoenix Hall during its heyday. When the Dragon Phoenix Hall faced adversity, it was the Old Marquis who saved his life, prompting him to stay on as a steward in the Marquis Mansion.
Following Mr. Chen¡¯s passing, his son, Mr. Chen, took over the responsibilities.
Over the years, thanks to Butler Chen and his son, every business within the Marquis Mansion had prospered. Their contributions had significantly enriched the Marquis Mansion.
Later on, the Old Marquis had sent Butler Chen to join Su Bin and others.
At that time, the Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion had already been sequestered in the temple hall. She only learned of this after Butler Chen had moved over to Su Bin¡¯s side.
If she hadn¡¯tmitted any wrongdoing, she would have vehemently protested.
She was well aware of the nature of her sons.
If the management of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s shops and businesses were entrusted to their sons, it seemed almost certain that they would squander everything within three short years.
Even when the Old Marquis disclosed this information to his lifelongpanion, she raised objections.
However, the Old Marquis exined, ¡°When I saved Old Mr. Chen, his agreement to serve as a butler in the Marquis Mansion came with a stipted time frame.¡¯
¡°Both Mr. Chen and his son are people of integrity. When Mr. Chen passed away, the transition was swift. His son assumed his role.¡±
¡°ording to the arrangement, Mr. Chen no longer had obligations to remain as the Marquis Mansion¡¯s butler. He also informed me in advance of his intention to leave.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t need to elucidate the reasons behind Mr. Chen¡¯s departure. He left due to his displeasure with our four sons. He also deemed our four sons unworthy of his continued service.
¡°But Su Bin is distinct from Qin Zhenzhen.¡±
¡°Perhaps Mr. Chen will recognize that Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen are worth following.¡±
¡°I¡¯m contemting the Marquis Mansion¡¯s future.¡±
¡°If Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen can retain Mr. Chen, that would be a significant boon!¡±
¡°When Su Bin returns to the Marquis Mansion, Mr. Chen can still serve our household.¡±
¡°With Mr. Chen in the Marquis Mansion, financial concerns will be alleviated.¡±
Nheless, the Old Marquis could not have foreseen that he would be deceived by Mr. Chen.
In actuality, Mr. Chen held the title of Hall Master in the Dragon Phoenix Hall, but he misled the Old Marquis by iming to be a linchpin of the organization.
Upon Mr. Chen¡¯s demise, he passed the position of Hall Master in the Dragon Phoenix Hall to his son. His sonter transferred it to Su Bin, and no one was privy to this information.
Not even the Third Prince had knowledge of this, let alone the Old Marquis.
At most, he surmised that Mr. Chen had some connection to the Dragon Phoenix Hall.
Upon hearing about the resurgence of the Dragon Phoenix Hall, he promptly sought out Mr. Chen.
Nevertheless, Mr. Chen responded, ¡°I promise to divulge everything I can, but please pardon me if there are matters I cannot discuss.¡±
The Old Marquis refrained from pressing Mr. Chen about the Dragon Phoenix
Hall..
Chapter 464 - 464: What a Vicious Heart
Chapter 464 - 464: What a Vicious Heart
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¡°Mr. Chen never disclosed his ties to the Dragon Phoenix Hall to anyone.¡±
¡°However, it¡¯s undeniable that Mr. Chen is affiliated with the Dragon Phoenix Hall and is also in Su Bin¡¯s employ.¡±
¡°Hence, Su Bin asserts that investigating the events of that time won¡¯t be overly challenging for him.¡±
¡°I haveplete faith in him.¡±
¡°During that era, the Dragon Phoenix Hall wielded immense influence. They could even prate the pce¡¯s secrets.¡±
At this juncture, the Senior Marquis wore a grave expression. ¡°Allow me to inquire once more. You had absolutely no involvement in those past events, correct?¡±
¡°If there¡¯s a connection, it¡¯s in your best interest to disclose the truth.
Otherwise, not even I can guarantee your safety.¡±
The Old Marquis was resorting to threats to extract information from the Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion. Simultaneously, he conveyed a message that even if she were guilty, he wouldn¡¯t abandon her.
As anticipated, the Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion couldn¡¯t resist but pose a counterquestion.
¡°Marquis¡ If it were established that I had a role in the incident from that time, what would you do?¡±
The Old Marquis¡¯s expression altered. ¡°Did you truly do it?¡±
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion fell to her knees, sobbing. ¡°My lord, I deserve death!¡±
In his fury, the Old Marquis pped her. His anger was palpable.
¡°What did you vow to me?¡±
¡°You swore an oath!¡±
¡°Tell me, if you poisoned her, do you expect anything less than a gruesome demise?¡±
¡°At that time, I ced full trust in your words, but you callously shattered my faith in you!¡±
¡°You drove the heir away from home, robbing our Marquis Mansion of its rightful sessor!¡±
¡°You¡¯re going to leave me too ashamed to face our ancestors when I pass!¡± The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion pped herself while weeping.
¡°Marquis¡ I implore you to hear my exnation!¡±
¡°I wasn¡¯t lying in the past!¡±
¡°I did not poison her¡¡±
¡°I merely inspected her medication list. Upon discovering food items conflicting with the herbs on the list, I instructed the kitchen to prepare her meals¡¡±
The Old Marquis inquired with a quivering voice, ¡°The more she consumed, the more her vitality gradually waned?¡±
¡°Did the Jiang family acquaint you with such a sinister method?¡±
Certainly, the Jiang family must have disclosed this method to her. They were well-versed in employing dark means to eliminate individuals without a trace.
It exined why no evidence could be found at that time.
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion dared not respond; she lowered her head, crying.
¡°Your Excellency¡ you were well aware back then that she did not treat me kindly. She repeatedly threatened my life. Whenever you left the residence, I trembled with fear and anxiety.¡±
¡°Truth be told, my sister¡¯s ailment was already terminal. Even if I hadn¡¯t taken those actions, her life wouldn¡¯t have been prolonged. It was more merciful to expedite her departure¡
The Old Marquis interjected in anger.
¡°The maid who volunteered to testify on behalf of the heir, that was also your arrangement, wasn¡¯t it?¡±
Initially, the maid had approached the heir of her own ord, revealing what his lifelongpanion had done and expressing her willingness to serve as a witness.
Having earned the heir¡¯s trust, the maid was escorted by the heir to testify before the Old Marquis. However, in a surprising turn, the maid turned on the heir, alleging that he had coerced her family and threatened her to provide false testimony. She went as far as using his lifelongpanion of poisoning his wife.
This usation left the Marquis seething with anger. He promptly pped the heir twice, rebuking him as an unfilial son.
The heir, utterly disillusioned by this ordeal, chose to run away from home, bing the subject of ridicule throughout the capital and leaving the Marquis Mansion without a sessor.
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion concurred.
The Old Marquis was heartbroken.. ¡°Your actions were so ruthless!¡±
Chapter 465 - 465: After Making a Mistake
Chapter 465 - 465: After Making a Mistake
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion lost herposure. ¡°No! I¡¯m not the cruel one! It¡¯s the heir!¡±
¡°I heard him say it himself. Once he bes the Marquis, he ns to harm all our children, including me!¡±
¡°I was deeply fearful at that time. To safeguard our children¡¯s safety, I feltpelled to employ that method to drive him away!¡±
The Old Marquis admonished, ¡°He was still a child then! Those words were uttered in a fit of anger. How can you take them seriously?¡±
¡°He didn¡¯t say it out of anger. I couldn¡¯t disregard it! The heir has always harbored animosity towards me and our children. He has never acknowledged our children as his younger siblings!¡±
¡°Marquis, do you recall? When he was younger, Third Brother pursued him, addressing him as his brother. In response, he turned and violently kicked Third Brother to the ground, warning him: ¡®If you call me brother again, I¡¯ll kick you to death!¡±¡®
The Old Marquis closed his eyes, clearly tormented.
¡°Enough, don¡¯t say more! Do you believe I¡¯d ept your words now?¡±
He hadn¡¯t witnessed what she imed with his own eyes, yet he had chosen to believe her and chastised the heir.
Initially, the heir had protested the injustice, butter, he expressed bitter hatred, dering, ¡°They aren¡¯t my younger siblings in the first ce!¡±
In his rage, the Marquis had struck him even harder on the spot.
Now it appeared that she may have fabricated the story at the time. The maids and old servants had also assisted her in crafting false evidence.
Yet he had unconditionally ced his trust in her, for he had always considered her the mostpassionate and understanding woman in the world.
Unbeknownst to him, he had been utterly deceived. He had let his son down!
Nheless, the Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion was spiraling further out of control, transitioning from tears to curses.
¡°I¡¯ve be like this because of your deceit!¡±
¡°You promised back then that you would marry me as an equal wife, standing on equal ground with your main wife. Our children would be recognized as legitimate sons and daughters! But it¡¯s all been a lie!¡±
¡°Not only does your main wife treat me as a concubine, but even the servants and maids within the residence regard me as a favored concubine!¡±
¡°Not to mention our child. If the emperor does not acknowledge it, our child will be relegated to the status of a concubine¡¯s offspring, deprived of the right to inherit!¡±
¡°But you fail toprehend the suffering that the children and I have endured!¡±
¡°You could have obtained the heir position by using the death exemption card and swapping it with the emperor, but you never even broached the subject. You were only concerned about locating the heir.¡±
¡°When the heir disappeared, you implored Su Bin to return and assume the role of heir. You even bestowed upon them a considerable sum of money. The collective funds that the children and I have used likely don¡¯t amount to what you provided to them!¡±
The Old Marquis was growing increasingly exasperated.
¡°Enough! Cease your words!¡±
He had been willing to offer money to Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen to demonstrate his earnestness. Simultaneously, he wanted to convey to Su Bin that only a fool would forsake the opportunity to return to the Marquis Mansion!
Furthermore, he recognized that if he didn¡¯t provide Su Bin and the others with financial support, they might ept the Lin family¡¯s money and entirely disown him as their grandfather.
There was another aspect to his decision. He understood Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s capabilities. With their skills, they could potentially multiply the funds he had given them manifold.
As it turned out, his intuition had been correct.
Su Bin and the others were prospering, and they likely had augmented the sum he had provided them by several times.
As long as Su Bin and the others came back to the Marquis Mansion, this money would forever remain with the Marquis Mansion.
¡°Have you lost your mind? Aftermitting an error, you persist in self- righteousness!¡±
However, she did indeed appear to have lost her sanity. She lunged at the Old Marquis, tearing at him and striking him.
¡°You dered back then that you and your main wife would have no children!
She¡¯s just a decorative figure! Our child was to inherit the position of heir!¡±
Chapter 466 - 466: You Heartless Man
Chapter 466 - 466: You Heartless Man
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°In the end? You not only had a child with her but also designated his child as the heir!¡±
¡°You deceived me with your honeyed words! You explicitly assured me of the main wife¡¯s position, but after our marriage, you relegated me to a concubine!
Our child was reduced to the status of a concubine¡¯s offspring. This can hardly be considered a respectable union!¡±
¡°You were the first to deceive me. That¡¯s why I resorted to deceit!¡±
¡°I did it solely to secure a bright future for our children, so I don¡¯t believe I made a mistake!¡±
¡°If there¡¯s me to assign, you deserve it first!¡±
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion wept and cursed.
¡°I could have married into a respectable family. It¡¯s all your fault. Your deceit led to this situation for me and my children!¡±
¡°I detest you, you heartless man!¡±
¡°I¡¯ve served you diligently for decades. I¡¯m already so advanced in years, yet you heartlessly confined me to the temple hall, robbing me of sunlight! ¡±
¡°And now, you wish to punish me once more. In that case, I might as well meet an early demise and acquiesce to your wishes!¡± As she spoke, she struck her head against the table.
The Old Marquis embraced her.
¡°Bao¡¯er, cease this recklessness!¡±
The Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion seized the opportunity to strike the Old
Marquis. ¡°Sob¡ do you truly believe you hold no responsibility for what befell
¡°If you believe you bear no responsibility, then don¡¯t impede me from ending it all!¡±
As she spoke, she prepared to hit her head against the table once more.
For some reason, she found the strength to carry out her actions, leaving the Old Marquis feeling unable to restrain her any longer.
Nheless, she continued to struggle with all her strength. ¡°You did nothing wrong. It¡¯s all my fault. I¡¯ll die, I¡¯ll die!¡±
The Old Marquis could only admit in a hushed tone, ¡°Bao¡¯er, cease this reckless behavior. I, too, have my faults¡¡±
In his youth, he had been deeply in love with her, a woman as resplendent as a blossom. He had indeed made such promises.
At that time, he longed to offer her the entire world.
Upon realizing that breaking off the engagement with his first wife was impossible, he even contemted eloping with her.
However, she had declined, citing her inability to act so selfishly.
If she were to elope, she preferred not to remain with him, as she didn¡¯t want to bring harm to him. Departing the Marquis Mansion would mean forfeiting his heir status.
Her refusal had greatly moved him, and he had pledged to cherish her.
To marry her, he had indeed vowed not to allow his wife to bear children.
At that moment, he had genuinely intended to honor that promise.
However, on their wedding night, he discovered that his first wife was also a vision of beauty. During his intimate moments with her, he discerned her gentle andpassionate nature, causing him to waver once more.
He felt that there was nothing wrong with his first wife being his primary spouse.
As a young girl, she had no say in the matter of marriage.
Even when she wed him, she remained unaware of his rtionship with another woman.
Their parents were the ones at fault, as they had forcibly arranged their union for the sake of their own interests.
The Old Marquis believed that if he couldn¡¯t shower her with affection, he would give her a child.
During his first wife¡¯s pregnancy, he wed his equal wife.
Capitalizing on his first wife¡¯s expectant state, which prevented her from tending to his needs, he spent each night with his equal wife.
Back then, he considered himself exceptionally benevolent toward his first wife but felt a growing sense of guilt toward his equal wife.
Before long, he found himself captivated by the tenderness of his equal wife.
After the primary wife gave birth to her son, she approached him one day and said, ¡°Inform your equal wife that if she harbors any thoughts of harming my son once again, she shouldn¡¯t be surprised if I take action against her first!¡±
The Old Marquis found it difficult to believe his wife¡¯s words, scolding her for needlessly stirring up trouble and holding delusions.
His beloved Bao¡¯er had always been forgiving, never reproaching him for failing to fulfill his promise..
Chapter 467 - 467: He Will Not Return to the Marquis Mansion
Chapter 467 - 467: He Will Not Return to the Marquis Mansion
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Ever since his wife had uttered those words, the Old Marquis¡¯s dislike for her grew even stronger.
He dismissed his first wife¡¯s allegations, attributing them to her attempt to sow discord between him and Bao¡¯er because she couldn¡¯t provide any concrete evidence.
The Old Marquis had always regarded his Bao¡¯er as kind and virtuous. Even though he had tantly broken his promise and fathered a child with his first wife, even designating that child as the heir, she had neverined or broached the topic.
In his eyes, Bao¡¯er disyed great respect for his primary wife and had a deep affection for the heir. Regrettably, the heir had distanced himself from Bao¡¯er at the behest of his mother.
In truth, she harbored a strong aversion to the idea of his children with Bao¡¯er.
Now he recognized that his previous perception had been an illusion.
He feared that his wife¡¯s usations held some truth. When she was pregnant with the heir, he had once contemted terminating her pregnancy, and after the heir¡¯s birth, he had made several unsessful attempts to do so, but his wife had foiled his efforts.
Yet, she had never managed to procure definitive evidence.
The Old Marquis had not anticipated that Bao¡¯er had concealed her animosity deep within and had feigned kindness on the surface. He had been utterly oblivious.
When she acknowledged orchestrating the plot against Su Bin, the Old Marquis even believed her, attributing her actions to her family¡¯s instigation.
He epted such an overt falsehood.
With a heavy heart, the Old Marquis released Bao¡¯er.
¡°I concede my error. I deserve to be deceived!¡±
¡°If you genuinely wish to end it all, then go to the depths of hell¡¡¯
Without casting another nce, the Old Marquis departed from the temple hall.
The Madame of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion was left in shock.
It was at that moment that she grasped the profound disappointment the Old Marquis harbored for her. He seemed to have abandoned all tolerance and concern for her life.
Regret welled up within her for the words she had just spoken.
In an instant, the facade she had maintained for all those years had been stripped away.
But she couldn¡¯t bear the thought of ending her own life.
Moreover, she realized that the Old Marquis would not impose any punishment upon her, so she remained obstinate in not admitting her past mistakes.
She was aware that he had to preserve his own reputation.
He must be considering a way to address the issue at hand now.
The Old Marquis sought out Su Bin once more.
¡°Bin¡¯er, let¡¯s put the past behind us!¡±
¡°I implore you as your grandfather!¡±
Su Bin fixed him with a stern gaze. ¡°You already know the truth, don¡¯t you?¡±
The Old Marquis didn¡¯t reply, signifying his tacit agreement.
¡°Was my grandmother¡¯s death truly linked to your equal wife?¡± Still, the Old Marquis remained silent. Su Bin sneered. ¡°In fact, I¡¯ve already discerned the truth!¡±
¡°I¡¯m merely asking to gauge your stance.¡±
¡°Now I understand that even if you were wrong about my father back then, you won¡¯t admit your mistake because you believe preserving your reputation is more important than anything else!¡±
The Old Marquis made a concerted effort to lower his voice. ¡°Bin¡¯er, this matter has long since passed, and I¡¯ve endured public ridicule for a considerable time. If I acknowledge my error now, who knows how many people will mock our
Marquis Mansion once more¡¡±
Su Bin interrupted him. ¡°You¡¯re mistaken! That¡¯s your Marquis Mansion!¡± He would never return to the Marquis Mansion!
Tears welled up in the Old Marquis¡¯s eyes as he gazed at Su Bin with a pitiful expression. ¡°Bin¡¯er, please listen to my exnation.¡±
¡°I only learned the truth yesterday, but she genuinely didn¡¯t poison her¡¡± The Old Marquis paused, at a loss for words.
Su Bin taunted him. ¡°She discovered food that countered the medication and had the kitchen prepare it for my grandmother. Isn¡¯t that tantamount to poisoning?¡±
The Old Marquis then spoke resolutely, ¡°Because she orchestrated a plot against you, I have already confined her to the temple hall.. Now that I know how malicious she is, I will deal with her privately and use her life to honor your grandmother¡¯s memory!¡±
Chapter 468 - 468: They’re Not Wrong
Chapter 468 - 468: They¡¯re Not Wrong
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Old Marquis believed that he had made a significant concession and hoped that Su Bin would understand his position.
However, Su Bin remained resolute.
Su Bin was not willing to simply let go of the Old Marquis¡¯ equal wife. Nevertheless, her private execution was of little consequence to him.
What Su Bin truly desired was for the Old Marquis to admit his mistakes and publicly reveal the truth about his father¡¯s departure from home.
The private execution of the Old Marquis¡¯ equal wife held no bearing in Su Bin¡¯s grand n. If he wished to press charges against her in a court ofw, he could have her sentenced as he saw fit. The act of a concubine murdering her primary wife typically warranted a death sentence by hanging.
Su Bin aimed to make everyone aware of the methods this woman had employed to cause his grandmother¡¯s death andpel his father to leave.
He sought to expose the fact that his father had not acted recklessly back then but rather that his grandfather hadvished favor upon the concubine who was responsible for his wife¡¯s demise.
Despite holding some evidence, it was not sufficient to send the Old Marquis¡¯ equal wife to the gallows due to the passage of time. It also failed to expose the Old Marquis¡¯s past errors.
Hence, Su Bin knew he required the Old Marquis to confess willingly.
The Old Marquis was keenly aware of this, which prompted him tomunicate with Su Bin in this manner.
Yet, the Old Marquis had no intention ofplying.
¡°Bin¡¯er, as long as you don¡¯t ask me to do this, I would rather give the entire Marquis Mansion to you. I¡¯m genuinely giving it to you! I¡¯ll have your uncles, nephews, and nieces move to the side rooms, leaving the main room empty.¡± Su Bin¡¯s lips curled into a sardonic smile.
He understood that the Old Marquis¡¯s offer was rooted in his desire for Su Bin to return to the Marquis Mansion and be the heir. This way, after the Old Marquis¡¯s passing, Su Bin would ascend to the title of Marquis, ensuring the continuous flow of funds from the Imperial Court to support the Marquis Mansion. With this arrangement, the Marquis Mansion would thrive under his leadership, and the Old Marquis would not feel ashamed before his ancestors. It was all about preserving the Old Marquis¡¯s face, both in life and death.
For the sake of face, the Old Marquis was willing to agree to the private execution of the woman he loved most and to relocate his favorite sons to lesser rooms.
Su Bin¡¯s smile grew colder. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that I¡¯ll eliminate them one by one once I be Marquis?
The Old Marquis appeared surprised. ¡°Do you know how to do it?¡±
Su Bin retorted, ¡°What do you think?¡±
The Old Marquis considered and responded, ¡°I don¡¯t believe you will! You¡¯re already the master of the Marquis Mansion, and they wouldn¡¯t dare challenge you. All they need is a monthly stipend.¡±
¡°But if you were to harm them, it would tarnish your reputation.¡±
¡°Furthermore, they are not to me for their mother¡¯s actions.¡±
Su Bin reminded him, ¡°What transpired in the past may not directly involve them, but you arranged for someone to frame me and destroy my future. Can you honestly im that it has nothing to do with them?¡±
The Old Marquis shook his head. ¡°It truly has nothing to do with them!¡±
If it were rted to them, the situation would have escted beyond framing Su Bin. They might have even plotted to assassinate him and others. Such an incident would have drawn significant attention, and the Old Marquis would surely have been alerted.
Perhaps Bao¡¯er had taken this into ount, concealing the information from their sons and opting for a covert approach she believed no one would uncover.
Even if she were exposed, she had a ready defense. She could argue, ¡°If I were behind it, why wouldn¡¯t I simply eliminate them outright?¡±
This was her modus operandi, always choosing the path she deemed the safest to achieve her objectives..
Chapter 469 - 469: Marquis, Please Return
Chapter 469 - 469: Marquis, Please Return
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In truth, it wasn¡¯t easy for others to uncover her using this method.
Had Qin Zhenzhen not transmigrated here, she might have seeded.
The Old Marquis, deeply concerned, discussed the matter with Su Bin. ¡°When you return to the Marquis Mansion, I hope you can promise in front of our guests that you¡¯ll treat them well.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s expression remained stoic. ¡°It¡¯s premature to make such assurances.¡±
¡°If you can¡¯t fulfill my request, I won¡¯t return to the Marquis Mansion, ¡± the Old
Marquis admitted with a teary gaze.
He believed he had already made a significant concession, but Su Bin¡¯s understanding remained elusive.
¡°Bin¡¯er, you bear the blood of the Marquis Mansion. Don¡¯t think that the fate of the Marquis Mansion has no bearing on you.¡±
¡°I¡¯d rather die than publicly admit my past mistakes, as you suggest.¡±
¡°Have you ever considered the consequences? Acknowledging my past errors means admitting to favoring concubines and causing my wife¡¯s death. The Emperor could strip me of my title, and the Marquis Mansion could be dissolved.¡±
Then what was the purpose of pleading with Su Bin to return to the Marquis Mansion?
Su Bin found the Old Marquis both pitiable and infuriating.
However, he held steadfast to his stance. ¡°I didn¡¯t think that far ahead.¡¯
¡°All I know is that we can¡¯t let our father¡¯s sacrifices be in vain. We can¡¯t disrespect his choices from the past.¡±
As the Old Marquis remained unwilling to admit his mistakes, returning seemed unlikely.
Suddenly, the Old Marquis inquired, ¡°Bin¡¯er, are you aware that the Marquis
Mansion possesses a pardon token?¡±
Su Bin responded calmly, ¡°I am aware.¡±
¡°Are you suggesting that you possess this death exemption card, which could be used to secure a position as the heir with the Emperor¡¯s approval, but you¡¯ve chosen not to do so?¡±
The Old Marquis remained silent. That was exactly what he had intended to convey.
¡°You may also be considering that, if I were to use all my influence to present your equal wife case to the government, you could then exchange the death exemption medal with the Emperor to absolve your past mistakes and quash this matter?¡±
Once more, the Old Marquis fell into silence. He had entertained that thought as well.
¡°Do you believe a death exemption medal can change my decision?¡± Su Bin peered at the Old Marquis with aplex expression.
After a moment of silence, the Old Marquis suddenly knelt before Su Bin.
Su Bin reacted swiftly, pulling him back up, his expression darkening.
¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t back you into a corner!¡±
¡°Our father chose to step back and save your face in the past. Now, I can follow in his footsteps and save your face without dredging up the past.¡±
¡°But if you desire to save your face, you have no right to demand that we return to the Marquis Mansion!¡±
Each word from Su Bin pierced the Old Marquis¡¯s heart like a knife.
Su Bin also produced a stack of banknotes.
¡°This is the money I borrowed from you back then. I¡¯ll repay it with interest!¡±
¡°No need for secret executions, and no need to hope for our return to the
Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°From this moment forward, our paths are entirely separate!¡±
¡°If you ever kneel before me again, I won¡¯t help you up, for you are no longer my grandfather!¡±
Su Bin¡¯s countenance darkened, his tone mirroring that of his father from years past.
The Old Marquis was left in a state of shock. ¡°Bin¡¯er¡¡±
It brought back memories of Su Bin¡¯s father, who had once said to him, ¡°Henceforth, we are strangers to each other! You are no longer my father, and I am not your son!¡±
Su Bin motioned for him to depart. ¡°Marquis, please leave.¡±
¡°Bin¡¯er, give me some time to consider¡¡¯
In a daze, the Old Marquis returned to the Marquis Mansion.
Qin Zhenzhen let out a sigh of relief.
In the original storyline, Su Bin harbored an intense hatred for the Old Marquis. No matter how remorseful the Old Marquis appeared, Su Bin remained impassive. He systematically eliminated everyone in the Marquis Mansion, causing the Old Marquis immense anguish.
But now, Su Bin had made the decision to spare everyone in the Marquis
Mansion..
Chapter 470 - 470: Illness
Chapter 470 - 470: Illness
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Wife!¡±
Su Bin embraced Qin Zhenzhen, his feelings surprisingly light, as if a great burden had been lifted from his shoulders.
He understood that the Old Marquis couldn¡¯t publicly admit his mistake, sparing him the need to return to the Marquis Mansion. It was a relief.
This way, he could honor his father¡¯s wishes. His father had chosen not to engage in a bitter feud with the Old Marquis, instead opting to step back, considering the Old Marquis had saved his life.
Su Bin also acknowledged the Old Marquis as his biological grandfather. He had no intention of engaging in a life-or-death struggle with him, as long as he wasn¡¯tpelled to return to the Marquis Mansion.
¡°Dear, do you think I¡¯m being unreasonable in handling this?¡±
In order to secure the Marquis Mansion¡¯s continued prosperity, his own grandfather had to kneel before him. Despite this, Su Bin held fast to his principles.
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°No.¡± ¡°You¡¯re handling it admirably.¡±
¡°In fact, you¡¯re more forgiving than most.¡±
Typically, upon learning that the Old Marquis¡¯ equal wife had tried to frame him, Su Bin should have reacted far less gracefully.
However, in the past, to help Qin Zhenzhen secure startup capital, Su Bin had promised the Old Marquis that he would consider returning to the Marquis Mansion once he achieved fame.
But, deep down, Su Bin had already decided against returning to the Marquis
Mansion at that time.
Reflecting on it, Su Bin had indeed plotted against the Old Marquis.
Therefore, Su Bin intended to be magnanimous and forgiving towards the Old Marquis.
¡°Wife, I cannot let the Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion off the hook.¡±
Not only had she stolen his grandmother¡¯s husband, but she had also been responsible for his grandmother¡¯s death and had schemed to exile his father from the capital.
At that time, his father had been a promising teenager with a bright future.
If not for her, his father wouldn¡¯t have died with regrets.
Over two decadester, she had orchestrated a plot to ruin his future. Were it not for Qin Zhenzhen, he wouldn¡¯t have even had the chance to be a Cultivated Talent.
For her own selfish motives, she had wielded the butcher¡¯s knife to take a life. Afterward, she didn¡¯t hesitate to destroy someone¡¯s prospects. She deserved to be punished for her cruelty.
¡°In that case, don¡¯t spare her. She truly deserves her fate.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t attempt to dissuade Su Bin from seeking justice against the Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion.
¡°Thank you for your support, my dear!¡±
Su Bin tightened his embrace around Qin Zhenzhen.
Curiosity got the better of her, and she asked, ¡°What do you n to do?¡±
Su Bin responded, ¡°We can¡¯t publicly use her and let her escape the noose. We must make her suffer before her demise.¡¯
¡°Otherwise, I¡¯d be betraying my deceased grandmother and father.¡±
¡°Our allies within the Marquis Mansion are preparing to administer a slow-acting poison.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t inquire about the specifics of the poison Su Bin had chosen.
Soon after, news arrived from the Duke Mansion indicating that the Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion was suffering from a mysterious ailment, experiencing intermittent stomach pains.
Sometimes, the pain struck thrice a day.
During these bouts, it felt as though her internal organs were being torn apart by an invisible force.
Each time the pain struck,sting about two hours, she would copse and lose consciousness.
The Old Marquis had enlisted the services of a doctor, but the treatment proved ineffective.
Desperate, he appealed to the Emperor, who dispatched an imperial physician, but even their efforts were in vain.
Her sons, in their desperation, reached out to Qin Zhenzhen for help in treating their ailing mother.
The Old Marquis had anticipated that convincing Qin Zhenzhen to assist would be a challenge, but to his surprise, she readily agreed.
With hope in his heart, the Old Marquis inquired, ¡°Can you help her recover?¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen came to a somber conclusion. ¡°I¡¯m afraid there¡¯s no cure. She¡¯s already in the terminal stage of her illness.¡±
Perplexed, the Old Marquis couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°What ailment is afflicting
¡°It¡¯s a mental illness,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied. ¡°It stems from the cruel deeds shemitted in the past, which have weighed on her conscience for a long time, resulting in a mental illness.¡±
¡°Regrettably, her condition has persisted for an extended period, leading to the development of a physical lesion, which has now progressed to angina.¡±
¡°Treating angina is a formidable challenge.¡±
After Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s departure, the Old Marquis pondered the situation overnight and eventually resolved to end her life.
He knew that Su Bin might have orchestrated this oue.
In the end, they both had to face the consequences of their past actions..
Chapter 471 - 471: Retribution
Chapter 471 - 471: Retribution
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Old Marquis had a strong suspicion that Su Bin was behind all of this.
He resolved to end Bao¡¯er¡¯s life prematurely, a decision he believed to be in her best interest.
That night, the Old Marquis visited Bao¡¯er.
Ever since her illness had taken hold, she had been moved out of the temple hall.
¡°Marquis¡ am I going to pass away?
She had just endured nearly two hours of excruciating pain, leaving her body weak, and her thoughts somewhat hazy.
The Old Marquis responded, ¡°You¡¯re still alive, and the ability to speak won¡¯t remain once you¡¯ve passed.¡±
¡°If you have something to share, please do so.¡± The Old Marquis didn¡¯t voice his intentions.
¡°Will I continue to suffer like this if I go on living?
Bao¡¯er slowly regained her rity of mind.
The Old Marquis nodded calmly. ¡°Yes, because you¡¯re in the terminal stage of your illness.¡±
She had brought this suffering upon herself entirely due to her past actions.
He had poured all his love into her. Why was she still not content?
Why did she covet a status and power that were not rightfully hers?
¡°I understand. I¡¯m not actually unwell. Someone has poisoned me.¡±
Much like in the past, the Old Marquis¡¯s first wife should not have sumbed so swiftly, or perhaps she wouldn¡¯t have perished at all. It was her own actions that had led to this oue.
Now, her retribution hade.
As expected, the Old Marquis silently acknowledged the situation.
Bao¡¯er wore a wistful smile. ¡°Marquis, even if they hadn¡¯t poisoned me, you would still have me executed in secret, wouldn¡¯t you?¡±
The Old Marquis didn¡¯t provide a direct answer. Instead, he asked her, ¡°If you were in my shoes, what would you do?¡±
She had been deceived by her seemingly kind facade for her entire life.
Her actions had led to the death of his wife, the expulsion of the heir, and nearly the ruination of his biological grandson¡¯s future.
She knew well that she and her child couldn¡¯t inherit the marquisate, yet she still aimed to wrest the death exemption medallion from him and trade it for the position of his primary wife with the Emperor. She desired her son to be the Marquis and herself to be the powerful Grand Duchess.
Bao¡¯er¡¯s voice trembled. ¡°I won¡¯t retaliate. I won¡¯t harm you. I¡¯m not as heartless as you¡ Because you are the person I love the most. I understood you had a legitimate wife, but I married you because my love for you was too strong¡¡±
¡°Even if you betray me, I have noints. I don¡¯t want to harbor hatred towards you. My resentment is directed only at the one who took you away. I hurt her because my love for you is too deep¡
Despite her words, she still clung to the hope that the Old Marquis might spare her life.
However, the Old Marquis remained unmoved.
¡°You don¡¯t wish to save me?¡±
¡°I¡¯ve summoned the imperial physicians. Sadly, there¡¯s nothing they can do.¡±
¡°Isn¡¯t your granddaughter-inw a miraculous doctor?¡±
¡°She came, and even she conceded that she couldn¡¯t help.¡±
Bao¡¯er finally relinquished her hope. ¡°So she has been here before!¡±
¡°Hehe¡ This is indeed karma!¡±
¡°Marquis, I understand that you intend to end my life.¡±
¡°It¡¯s considerate of you not to be the one to do it.¡±
¡°However, I want you to be the one to end my life personally. This way, we won¡¯t be lovers in our next life, and we¡¯ll surely be enemies!¡±
¡°I no longer wish to be your partner!¡±
Her tone grew unwavering by the end.
Tears streamed down the Old Marquis¡¯s cheeks, but he remained resolute.
During her next episode, he instructed someone to administer a pill.
Before long, shey peacefully on the bed, resembling someone in deep slumber.
Yet, the Old Marquis understood that she had ceased to breathe.
The Old Marquis conducted her funeral with minimal fanfare.
Her children remained unaware of the true cause of her death.
Before her passing, she made a shrewd decision. She refrained from disclosing the details of her death to her children and concealed the cruel actions she had taken in the past.
She recognized that her son wouldn¡¯t be able to contend with Su Bin..
Chapter 472 - 472: No Relevance
Chapter 472 - 472: No Relevance
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Following the passing of the Old Marquis¡¯s equal wife, the affluent women of the capital couldn¡¯t help but engage in discussions.
¡°Weren¡¯t they saying she had already entered the temple hall to pay her respects to Buddha? Why did she suddenly fall ill?¡±
¡°You¡¯re right. She was perfectly healthy before entering the temple hall. Why did she be sick afterward?¡±
¡°I heard she went to the temple hall because she had sent someone to falsely use Primus Su. The Old Marquis disciplined her.¡±
¡°Not only did she send people to frame Primus Su, but I also heard she was responsible for the death of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion heir and the Lady of the Marquis¡¯ Mansion.¡±
¡°The Old Marquis is overly partial to her. Still, he only confined her to the temple hall and couldn¡¯t bring himself to punish her.¡±
¡°She refused to repent and grew despondent because the Old Marquis no longer favored her. That¡¯s when she fell ill.
¡°In my opinion, her illness is rather suspicious. She may have been poisoned¡¡± ¡°She got what wasing to her. Her malevolence caught up with her!¡± After the funeral, the Old Marquis found a quiet ce to grieve.
He no longer harbored any animosity toward Bao¡¯er.
In fact, he even wished he could join her in the afterlife.
In that other world, he hoped there were no distinctions based on family and status. There, he could make the choice to marry Bao¡¯er.
However, he knew he couldn¡¯t pass away just yet.
He still needed to find a way to safeguard the Marquis Mansion.
He couldn¡¯t let the legacy of the Marquis Mansion vanish during his stewardship.
The Old Marquis couldn¡¯t bear to hold any resentment towards Su Bin.
Because, in his ce, he might have made the same choice.
Yet, he refrained from pleading with Su Bin once more.
It was as though he had severed all connections with Su Bin.
¡°I¡¯ve heard that Su Bin is resolute in not returning to the Marquis Mansion. The Old Marquis tried to approach him on several asions, but he didn¡¯t acquiesce.¡±
¡°That¡¯smendable!¡±
¡°Given that his father opted to depart from the Marquis Mansion, why should they return?¡±
¡°I used to think Su Bin was imprudent. I assumed that upon his return, he would promptly secure the heir¡¯s position without any effort and shun the hard work of preparing for the imperial examination.¡±
¡°Now, Iprehend. Su Bin possesses enough confidence to abstain from going back to the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°With his capabilities, he has no need for the Marquis Mansion¡¯s resources.¡± Initially, the people in the capital would converse about this issue, but over time, fewer and fewer engaged in such discussions.
Much like their father, Su Bin had genuinely made every effort to disassociate himself from the Marquis Mansion.
The Crown Prince believed that he would remain unscathed if he avoided antagonizing the Third Prince and the General Manor. However, to his surprise, the General Manor continued to engage in subterfuge.
At the outset, Old General Chen visited the pce and revealed that an anonymous letter had been sent to the General Manor. He presented this letter to the Emperor, which contained evidence that the Crown Prince and the Empress had falsely used the Third Prince.
As a result, the Emperor reprimanded the Crown Prince, cautioning him against harming the Third Prince further, pursuing Qin Zhenzhen, or suppressing Su Bin.
This caused the Crown Prince to be significantly more reserved. He suppressed his desires temporarily.
Nheless, the General Manor remained a source of concern for him. Old General Chen returned to the pce, presenting the Emperor with evidence that the Crown Prince had pursued the Third Prince within the Guang Mansion and subsequently framed remnants of the previous dynasty for the incident. All this evidence had been purchased by the General Manor through the Dragon Phoenix Hall.
To pacify the General Manor¡¯s anger, the Emperor confined the Crown Prince for a month and took measures against the few strategists in the Crown Prince¡¯s vicinity.
However, the Crown Prince¡¯s most critical strategist, Mr. Lin, escaped punishment.
Shortly after, the Crown Prince and the Public House cooperated to train death warriors and guards. The evidence of this endeavor was also presented to the Emperor.
The Emperor was incensed. ording to the rules, both the Crown Prince and the Public House were required to train a certain number of guards. Yet, their numbers had surpassed the stipted limit by tenfold..
Chapter 473 - 473: Catastrophe
Chapter 473 - 473: Catastrophe
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
How could they have raised more than ten times the number of ¡°guards¡±!
Although they were officiallybeled as ¡°guards,¡± they were essentially an array of expendable soldiers and a ndestine private army.
ording to the regtions, neither the Crown Prince¡¯s Residence nor the Public House were allowed to maintain more than 300 guards. Nevertheless, theirbined force exceeded a staggering 6,000, and this was no minor infraction.
It was only natural that the Emperor would be infuriated.
Maintaining private soldiers outside was a grave transgression, tantamount to rebellion. Even if the Crown Prince were involved, the Emperor was prepared to take stern measures.
After all, His Highness the Crown Prince wasn¡¯t his sole offspring.
The Emperor had no intentions of allowing his son to seize the throne from him while he was still vigorous and ruling.
Upon learning of the Emperor¡¯s response, the General Manor believed that their scheme had seeded.
If the Emperor incapacitated the Crown Prince, it would pave the way for the Third Prince to ascend to power.
The substantial sum they had spent on acquiring secrets and evidence from the Dragon Phoenix Hall wouldn¡¯t have been in vain.
Both the Crown Prince¡¯s Residence and the Public House were promptly informed of these developments through pce channels. They became aware that the General Manor had betrayed them, prompting the Emperor¡¯s intent to depose the Crown Prince.
They promptly convened discussions and forwarded this information to the Empress Dowager and the Empress.
When Su Bin discovered that the General Manor had disregarded his counsel and prematurely submitted the evidence against the Crown Prince and the Public House to the Emperor, his countenance changed dramatically.
¡°Wife, we might be in trouble!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen remained absorbed in her business and didn¡¯t inquire about court matters. However, when she noticed Su Bin¡¯s expression, she was taken aback and asked, ¡°Is there a crisis looming?¡±
¡°Yeah,¡± Su Bin responded and proceeded to recount the actions taken by the General Manor.
¡°I had specifically cautioned Lin Yue that it wouldn¡¯t be prudent to submit this evidence to the Emperor at this moment, especially given how they¡¯d acquired it when paying for the Dragon Phoenix Hall¡¯s secrets.¡±
¡°Regrettably, they went ahead and handed all this evidence to the Emperor. No one knows how events will unfold.
The Public House wielded considerable power, and most ordinary civil and military officials hesitated to confront them directly. The Empress Dowager staunchly supported the Crown Prince because, despite the Emperor having numerous sons, she considered the Crown Prince as her only true grandson. He was the son of her niece.
The Empress Dowager believed that only when the Crown Prince ascended to the throne could he secure the Public House¡¯s prestige and wealth. With the Public House outside the pce and the Empress Dowager within, the Crown Prince¡¯s arrogance had deep roots.
Upon seeing the evidence, the Emperor was bound to be furious. Should he let his anger slip and express his intent to incapacitate the Crown Prince, the situation would be thorny.
There was the possibility that the Public House, pushed to the brink, might consult with the Empress Dowager to consider deposing the Emperor, or even resort to a form of medication to exert control over him.
Naturally, things might not transpire precisely as described; it all hinged on the Empress Dowager¡¯s perspective.
If she believed that she could shield her family and the Crown Prince by sacrificing the Emperor, she might be willing to take drastic measures.
The Empress Dowager had a longstanding feud with the General Manor, stemming from a confrontation between her and a noble consort from the General Manor when she was young.
This animosity was deeply entrenched, so she would likely support the Empress in taking action against the Third Prince¡¯s mother.
In the event the Emperor incapacitated the Crown Prince, the Third Prince would be poised to seed him, an oue the Empress Dowager would undoubtedly wish to avert.
Hence, should the Emperor make known his intention to disable the Crown Prince, the likelihood of them coborating to exert control over the Emperor would increase.
After hearing Su Bin¡¯s analysis, Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback.
Please, Your Majesty, refrain from taking rash actions!
If he aimed to incapacitate the Crown Prince, he needed to await the right moment!
Chapter 474 - 474: Redress
Chapter 474 - 474: Redress
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
ording to the book¡¯s plot, the Emperor was ted to have a short lifespan, with his demise at the hands of the Eighth Imperial Uncle anticipated by the end ofst year. It was due to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s alterations to the storyline that he remained alive.
However, it appeared that his life was once again hanging by a thread.
Su Bin let out a sigh. ¡°If I had known this would happen, I wouldn¡¯t have sold them the secrets and evidence.¡±
Previously, Lin Yue had conveyed their intentions to employ the secrets and evidence primarily to ndestinely undermine the Public House, inflicting significant losses upon them. The n was to gradually erode the Public House¡¯s authority and arouse suspicion within the Emperor. The Public House might initially support the Crown Prince¡¯s ascension before recing him.
¡°I really didn¡¯t anticipate this,¡± Su Bin admitted.
Qin Zhenzhen understood Su Bin¡¯s point of view. If events unfolded as he suspected, with the Empress Dowager and the Public House jointly controlling the Emperor, and the Crown Prince ascending to the throne, Su Bin would undoubtedly be the new Emperor¡¯s primary target for elimination.
¡°Is there a way to rectify this?¡± Qin Zhenzhen inquired.
Su Bin responded, ¡°There are potential remedies, contingent upon the
Emperor¡¯s willingness to heed advice.¡±
The General Manor had discreetly delivered the evidence to the pce. Su Bin had advised the Emperor to suppress his anger and refrain from entertaining any thoughts of deposing the Crown Prince until the opportune moment arose. This counsel could only be conveyed through an anonymous letter.
Su Bin¡¯s anonymous letter had been dispatched to the pce, though it remained uncertain whether the Emperor would consider its contents.
Qin Zhenzhen attempted to console Su Bin. ¡°You¡¯ve done your utmost to mitigate the situation. Don¡¯t ce excessive pressure on yourself. The Emperor is a shrewd individual who won¡¯t take actions that jeopardize his own safety.¡±
¡°If your predictiones true, and the Emperor is under control, with the Crown Prince ascending, we won¡¯t simply wait for our fate. We can proactively leave the capital.¡±
Su Bin maintained his silence. Escaping the capital was the final resort.
He didn¡¯t wish to live in hiding with his wife. He aspired to lead his family in an open, happy, and unrestricted life.
That night, Lin Yue hurried to seek out Su Bin.
¡°Su Bin, is there any way to salvage this situation?¡±
¡°Have you heard any updates from the Dragon Phoenix Hall?¡±
Su Bin exined to Lin Yue that he had dispatched an anonymous letter to the pce. If the Emperor read it, he might not act impulsively.
Lin Yue breathed a sigh of relief.
He was well aware of the Dragon Phoenix Hall¡¯s capabilities. Delivering an anonymous letter to the Emperor was not a formidable challenge. Moreover, he had faith in Su Bin¡¯s persuasive skills. Su Bin was adept at articting the potential risks to the Emperor.
Lin Yue sighed again.
¡°The General Manor excels in warfare andbat, but theyck the patience required for scheming.¡±
Their battlefield tactics didn¡¯t trante well into this context, which was the primary reason they couldn¡¯t vanquish the Public House.
Each time a new Emperor ascended the throne, a maiden from the General Manor would enter the pce to serve as his concubine. Regrettably, they typically fell victim to the intrigues of the pce and rarely bore children.
Initially, the General Manor contemted supporting the Third Prince for the throne. However, their ns took an unexpected turn. The Third Prince¡¯s mother was swiftly eliminated by the Empress Dowager and the Empress, and the Third Prince himself was also harmed by them.
During the time when the Third Prince was still alive and his influence was growing, they couldn¡¯t afford to be patient any longer.
Lin Yue confided in Su Bin, ¡°We¡¯ve encountered a predicament in the General
Manor. When we were deliberating how to deal with the Crown Prince and the
Public House, we couldn¡¯t reach a consensus. I didn¡¯t anticipate that Old General Chen would insist on dispatching secrets and evidence to the pce via an anonymous channel.¡±
¡°By the time the Third Prince and I discovered this, it was already toote.¡±
¡°Based on the evidence and leads provided in the anonymous letter, the Emperor has already initiated actions to dismantle their private army base and apprehend a significant figure in charge.¡±
Su Bin was already aware of these developments..
Chapter 475 - 475: Looking for Someone
Chapter 475 - 475: Looking for Someone
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Shortly thereafter, Su Bin received news from the pce.
Upon receiving Su Bin¡¯s anonymous letter, the Emperor contemted the matter at length. Ultimately, he heeded Su Bin¡¯s counsel and managed to restrain his anger.
He summoned the Crown Prince to the pce and offered only mild criticism before pardoning the matter of the ¡°private army¡± buildup.
However, Su Bin was cognizant of the fact that the Emperor might have quietly resolved to eliminate the Public House during his lifetime.
Su Bin¡¯s assessment was correct; that was indeed the Emperor¡¯s line of thinking.
Throughout his life as a prince, he had existed in the shadow of the Public House.
His mother, grandmother, and the former Empress Dowager had consistently impressed upon him the notion that if he aimed to secure his position, he needed to rely on the Public House.
Depending on the Public House wouldn¡¯t ce him at a disadvantage since they were unlikely to stage a rebellion. Nevertheless, their authority sometimes surpassed even that of the Emperor.
The Empress Dowager was particrly devoted to her maternal family¡¯s Public House. When he was the Crown Prince, his Crown Prince Consort had to be a maiden from the Public House.
Upon his ascension to the throne, the Empress was also required to be the Crown Princess Consort, with the Crown Prince¡¯s birth mother.
All preceding princes born before the Crown Prince had to meet their end. They had no desire for older princes to pose a threat to the Crown Prince¡¯s status.
Even a prince born simultaneously with the Crown Prince was not exempt. They wished to forestall the emergence of a prince of equivalent power to the Crown Prince.
The dominance of the Public House had been so overpowering that the Emperor had beenpelled to tolerate it. This was because he had himself lived under simr circumstances in the past.
It turned out that they had been correct in their approach.
Before the Emperor ascended to the throne, his position had nearly been usurped by a prince a decade his junior, whose mother hailed from the General Manor.
Heprehended their motives for targeting the Third Prince, having witnessed the underhanded tactics used against him since a young age. He also understood the rationale behind their desire topletely eliminate the Third Prince.
Nevertheless, he had already bestowed upon the Crown Prince numerous privileges, unmatched by any other prince¡¯s authority.
In light of these circumstances, their insistence on eliminating the vulnerable Third Prince and their disregard for his cautionary admonitions left the Emperor unwilling to continue tolerating the situation.
Yet Su Bin¡¯s anonymous letter had spelled out the potential repercussions with great rity. Given the current audacity of the Public House, if the Emperor dared to cripple the Crown Prince, they might dare to conspire with the Empress Dowager to subdue the Emperor.
The Emperor heeded Su Bin¡¯s counsel.
He could surmise that the evidence against the Crown Prince and the Public House had likely been provided by the General Manor. However, he remained uncertain regarding the author of the anonymous letter offering advice.
The Emperor was acutely aware that the individual who had written the anonymous letter was most probably a court official. He wished to identify this person and groom them as a trustworthy advisor.
This person might or might not be affiliated with the General Manor. It was improbable that they were connected to the Public House. What he was certain of, however, was that they had his best interests at heart.
It was impossible to discern the writer¡¯s identity from their handwriting alone. Thus, the Emperormenced aprehensive search to uncover this person¡¯s true identity.
First and foremost, this individual had to be highly capable, possessing insight into the actions of the Crown Prince, the Public House, and the General Manor. They also needed a deep understanding of the court¡¯s political dynamics and the audacity to dispatch an anonymous letter to the pce, fully aware of the
associated risks.
Furthermore, this individual, while astute and sagacious, remained remarkably discreet andposed. Although they were willing to dispatch an anonymous letter to the pce, they were reluctant to present themselves in person before the Emperor..
Chapter 476 - 476: The Safest Way
Chapter 476 - 476: The Safest Way
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The emperor also considered another possibility: The anonymous letter¡¯s author remained concealed due to ack of confidence in the emperor. This fueled his determination to eliminate the influence of the Public House and assert his true authority.
He vowed to be an emperor who couldn¡¯t be manipted by anyone.
Silently, the emperor embarked on a quest to identify the anonymous letter¡¯s author. Su Bin quickly caught wind of this but desperately wanted to keep his involvement hidden.
Together with Qin Zhenzhen, they assessed the situation within the royal court and realized that the emperor¡¯s position was precarious. His limited wisdom, the General Manor¡¯s impatience with advice, and the Third Prince¡¯sck of influence all yed into the hands of the Public House. They wondered if the General Manor had more hidden agendas.
Considering the Public House¡¯s power, the Empress Dowager¡¯s obstinacy, and the unpredictable Crown Prince, a hasty attempt by the emperor to dismantle the Public House might lead to a devastating defeat.
Su Bin toyed with the idea of confessing as the anonymous letter¡¯s author, hoping to gain favor with the emperor and be a trusted advisor. This strategy seemed advantageous for undermining the Crown Prince¡¯s position. However, he understood the risks of this course of action. Associating with a ruler as unpredictable and easily swayed as the emperor, especially with the Public House¡¯s watchful eye, would mean exposing his own secrets.
No one could offer assurance that the emperor wouldn¡¯t be paranoid and misconstrue Su Bin¡¯s motives, potentially leading to a fatal oue.
Due to this uncertainty, Su Bin resolved not to confess to writing the anonymous letter.
Su Bin consulted with Qin Zhenzhen, saying, ¡°My dear, I¡¯ve revealed everything to you. Do you think it¡¯s safe for us to remain in the capital?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen gazed at Su Bin and responded, ¡°Are you concerned that the emperor might eventually discover your involvement in the anonymous letter?¡±
Su Bin nodded gravely. ¡°I forged the handwriting. He won¡¯t discern it from the script, but I fear he might unearth a clue from the content.¡±
¡°The letter Iposed was borate, as convincing the emperor was no easy task. It was inevitable that it contained traces.¡¯
¡°The emperor has already initiated a search based on the letter¡¯s content. He may believe the author to be an older, more experienced minister. He¡¯s now scrutinizing the memorials presented by such ministers.¡±
¡°If he fails to find any leads, he¡¯ll eventually turn his attention to us, the younger officials.¡±
¡°He might evenpare the results of the recent capital examination and deduce my involvement.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen wore a worried expression. ¡°Are you suggesting that our safest course of action is to leave the capital?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s analysis indicated that as long as the emperor continued to be under the Public House and Empress Dowager¡¯s influence, he might be safe. However, if he decided to assert his power, he could be short-lived.
Based on the information Su Bin had gathered, the emperor seemed unwilling to tolerate the Public House any longer. If provoked, he might take action against them. The General Manor was a crucial supporter in this endeavor.
In essence, the likelihood of the emperor having a short reign was high.
Qin Zhenzhen inwardly sighed, realizing that the emperor¡¯s short-lived nature had a rationale. Even if she altered the course of events, it might not change the oue of the emperor¡¯s short reign.
In the event of the emperor¡¯s early demise, the Crown Prince would ascend the throne prematurely. As the emperor¡¯s first target, Su Bin, and subsequently herself, would face dire consequences.
Hence, if they intended to leave the capital, it would be wisest to choose a location far removed from the emperor¡¯s influence..
Chapter 477 - 477: Taking A Step Back
Chapter 477 - 477: Taking A Step Back
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin remarked, ¡°The emperor is surrounded by awork of spies, including individuals from our Dragon Phoenix Hall, the Public House, and the General Manor. His secrets are scarce.¡±
¡°It¡¯s no longer a secret that the Emperor received an anonymous letter.¡±
¡°The Public House, the General Manor, and the Crown Prince are all actively searching for the anonymous letter¡¯s author.¡±
¡°With so many parties on the hunt, it¡¯s only a matter of time before they discover my identity.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded in agreement. ¡°Your assessment is urate. What should our next steps be?¡±
Knowing that Su Bin had sensed the impending danger, she was confident that he had a well-thought-out n.
Su Bin gazed at Qin Zhenzhen and asked for her cooperation. ¡°I need your support. Will you agree to help?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled, ¡°Why ask such a question? We are now husband and wife. Your concerns are my concerns. Of course, I will cooperate with you.¡±
It was only then that Su Bin whispered his request, ¡°I need you to pretend to be pregnant, and the pregnancy symptoms should be quite severe.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen blushed and responded, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say we wouldn¡¯t need to pretend to be pregnant?¡±
She wasn¡¯t ready to have a child so soon and had taken precautions during her time with Su Bin.
Su Bin smiled and exined, ¡°Times have changed.¡±
He hadn¡¯t anticipated that their situation in the Imperial Court would be so unfavorable. He had initially assumed that Lin Yue and the Third Prince were rational actors, and that the Third Prince would easily triumph over the Crown Prince. However, he had miscalcted the General Manor¡¯s anxiety.
With the Third Princecking power, he couldn¡¯tmand the full obedience of the General Manor.
With the General Manor causing potential trouble, it could expedite the Crown Prince¡¯s ascension to the throne.
Su Bin¡¯s initial strategy had been to eliminate the Crown Prince before his ascension. If the Crown Prince ascended prematurely, it would be a dire situation for him.
When the Crown Prince held that title, he had once tried to take Su Bin¡¯s wife. If he became the Emperor, who knew if he might take more drastic actions? Qin Zhenzhen pulled on Su Bin¡¯s sleeve, asking, ¡°So, what¡¯s the n?¡±
Su Bin held her in his arms and proposed, ¡°We can circte news that we¡¯re originally from the southern regions and that we¡¯re struggling with the capital¡¯s climate. Moreover, you¡¯re pregnant and experiencing severe morning sickness every day. We can¡¯t consume any food here, so we need to return to the south for recuperation.¡±
¡°In doing so, you can also take my sister back to the prefectural city sooner.¡±
He was aware that the Crown Prince had shown interest in his wife. If it became public knowledge that she was pregnant and leaving the capital, it might curb his desires. Otherwise, Su Bin feared that the Crown Prince might concoct an excuse to halt her journey when he discovered her departure, citing a supposed illness within the Crown Prince¡¯s residence.
¡°That¡¯s a good n.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was keen to leave the capital.
¡°What about you staying in the capital alone?¡±
Su Bin shared his scheme with her.
¡°I can use this opportunity to request a transfer from the Emperor to a smaller role in the southern region.¡±
¡°Before that, I¡¯llpose another anonymous letter to the Emperor, urging him to bide his time and feign alignment with His Highness the Crown Prince and the Public House.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen concurred with Su Bin¡¯s strategy.
Qin Zhenzhen also perceived that, given the current circumstances, the emperor wouldn¡¯t easily overpower the Public House.
As the male lead in the original narrative, the Third Prince had to endure trials before attaining a dominant position.
If they aimed to assist the Third Prince, they had to proceed methodically and amass influence over time.
In light of this, they decided to take a step back and refrain from bing embroiled in the conflict between the Emperor and the Public House..
Chapter 478 - 478: Fake Pregnancy
Chapter 478 - 478: Fake Pregnancy
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The following day, Qin Zhenzhen began her act, feigning severe morning sickness.
Soon, news of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s pregnancy circted throughout the capital.
Given her renown as a seasoning specialist, her name was widely recognized.
Moreover, with Su Bin newly appointed as the Primus, many eyes were on their activities.
Su Bin deliberately had someone spread the word, adding some extra vor to the story.
¡°I¡¯ve heard that Divine Doctor Qin is expecting, and her morning sickness is excruciating. She¡¯s reached the point of vomiting after every meal.¡±
¡°Primus Su appears incredibly anxious. He seems eager to experience pregnancy on behalf of his wife!¡±
¡°The two of them have quite a reputation as a loving couple. It¡¯s no wonder Primus Su is so devoted to his wife.
There were, of course, those who took the opportunity to mock Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°What a joke. She¡¯s a miracle doctor, but she can¡¯t alleviate her morning sickness?¡±
Someone promptly defended her, saying, ¡°What do you know? Being a miracle doctor doesn¡¯t rte to managing pregnancy symptoms. You can¡¯t use medicines indiscriminately during pregnancy! ¡±
¡°Moreover, pregnancy reactions vary from person to person. Some experience mild symptoms, while others suffer intense difort, vomiting everything they eat. They might even vomit when they haven¡¯t eaten. Some even bring up yellow bile.¡±
¡°Ordinary remedies are ineffective, and potent medications must be used with caution. Divine Doctor Qin hails from the southern regions and hasn¡¯t fully limated to the capital¡¯s climate. Combined with her pregnancy, you can only imagine her difort.¡±
¡°Considering her condition, it would be wise for her to return to her hometown.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve heard that Primus Su intends to apany his wife to her hometown for her recovery.¡±
Upon hearing these discussions, the Crown Prince¡¯s anger was palpable, contorting his face.
He had never forgotten Qin Zhenzhen. Thoughts of when he could take her back to the Crown Prince¡¯s residence had consumed him.
However, he hadn¡¯t disregarded his father¡¯s warning, nor the Public House¡¯s counsel to keep his distance from Qin Zhenzhen. They believed that she was the royal family¡¯s lucky star, having once saved them. The Crown Prince shouldn¡¯t harbor improper intentions toward her, nor her husband, Su Bin.
Another theory posited that Qin Zhenzhen possessed extraordinary luck. She could bring fortune to others, turn misfortune into luck, and even reflect the harm inflicted on her back onto others, as the events in the royal courtyard had demonstrated.
Thus, the Crown Prince waspelled to stifle his desires for the time being.
Now, knowing that Qin Zhenzhen was soon to be a mother, his frustration mounted. He, the Crown Prince, couldn¡¯t possess the woman he desired and had to watch as she bore another man¡¯s child.
Yet, when he contemted the dragon throne, he convinced himself to put Qin Zhenzhen out of his mind. Once seated in that position, he could have countless women who resembled her to fill the void.
If he couldn¡¯t entirely erase thoughts of Qin Zhenzhen from his mind by then, he was determined to find a way to seduce her.
He now viewed this as a prime opportunity to drive Su Bin away.
With this motive in mind, the Crown Prince paid a visit to the Public House. ¡°Grandfather, I believe it¡¯s time to have Su Bin relocated from the capital.¡±
His grandfather furrowed his brows. ¡°Why must you create problems for Su Bin?¡±
The Crown Prince exined, ¡°It¡¯s not that I wish to oppose him, but I strongly suspect that Su Bin is unquestionably aligned with the Third Prince!¡±
However, his grandfather remained skeptical. ¡°Without any concrete evidence, how can you be certain he¡¯s with the Third Prince?¡±
The Crown Prince persisted, ¡°It¡¯s better to trust my instincts than not. If he¡¯s unwilling to be manipted by me, he bes our adversary..¡±
Chapter 479 - 479: Ready Reason
Chapter 479 - 479: Ready Reason
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Crown Prince¡¯s argument carried weight.
¡°Even if we can¡¯t entirely eliminate Su Bin, we cannot allow him to remain a government official in the capital.¡±
¡°You¡¯re well aware that Father intends for him to assume control of the Court of Judicial Review.¡±
¡°If Su Bin were to be a minister in the Court of Judicial Review, he¡¯d have convenient ess to various pieces of evidence.¡±
The Crown Prince was alluding to the Public House¡¯s activities.
It was Mr. Lin¡¯s insightful input that enabled him to present his case so persuasively.
Initially, the Public House hesitated. ¡°Su Bin is undoubtedly a skilled individual, and Qin Zhenzhen is a shrewd business mind. Wouldn¡¯t it be advantageous if we could bring them into our fold?¡±
The Crown Prince shook his head firmly. ¡°They can no longer be swayed to our side.¡±
He had made attempts, even humbling himself, to entice Su Bin to join their cause on two separate asions, yet Su Bin had rebuffed him.
The Crown Prince¡¯s grandfather privately reminded him, ¡°Su Bin¡¯s resistance to joining us isrgely due to your actions.¡±
The Crown Prince didn¡¯t appear pleased. ¡°I¡¯m well aware it¡¯s because of me.¡±
¡°I acknowledge my affection for Qin Zhenzhen, and I once schemed against Su Bin.
But if he sought to sway Su Bin and extract assurances that he wouldn¡¯t plot against him or pursue his wife in the future in Su Bin¡¯s presence,
He couldn¡¯t bring himself to do it!
He was the Crown Prince, the prospective emperor. How could he lower himself to the status of a minor minister?
Even if it were an act, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to do it!
The Public House, unable topel the Crown Prince, acquiesced to his proposal.
In truth, Su Bin posed a significant threat. If he continued to enjoy the emperor¡¯s favor and remained loyal to the emperor, he would be a formidable obstacle to the Public House. Hence, the notion of relocating him to a distant location for temperament development, with the promise of bringing him back once the Crown Prince ascended the throne, seemed prudent.
Nheless, they harbored reservations. ¡°Su Bin was promoted by the emperor, and it was because he was in opposition to us at the time.¡±
When Su Bin¡¯s advancement urred, the emperor knew he had been intentionally stifled by the Crown Prince. Despite this, the emperor, ranking him tenth, designated Su Bin as the Primus.
On one hand, Su Bin indeed disyed remarkable talent. On the other hand, the emperor¡¯s decision served as a reminder that he was the ultimate authority, emphasizing his supreme position.
The emperor shouldn¡¯t learn that suppressing Su Bin was a private act by the Crown Prince, executed without the Public House¡¯s knowledge.
Therefore, the Public House refrained from supporting the Crown Prince.
They were reluctant to engage in disputes with the emperor over such trivial matters.
However, they were unwilling to permit Su Bin to assume control of the Court of Judicial Review. Nevertheless, they opted to postpone action for the time being, as it wasn¡¯t yet the appropriate moment for such a move.
If they wanted to reassign Su Bin prematurely, they needed a valid justification.
The Crown Prince asserted, ¡°There¡¯s a preexisting reason.¡±
He recounted the street conversations that had reached the capital.
His countenance darkened. ¡°Given their apparent affection, let¡¯s indulge his wishes and proceed with the transferto his hometown to be the governor of Shanglin Prefecture.¡±
Shanglin Prefecture, situated adjacent to Meicheng City, was a city enveloped by mountains from head to toe. Despite sharing a southern location with Meicheng City, it was far more remote and economically disadvantaged.
While it was a sizable expanse ofnd, the poption barely exceeded half that of Meicheng City. This discrepancy could be attributed to Shanglin Prefecture¡¯s proximity to extensive, treacherous mountain ranges.
Deep within these mountains, bandits roamed, and their presence significantly impacted the local residents. Many chose to relocate elsewhere, fleeing the region.
Rumors circted that the government office in Shanglin Prefecture was in a deplorable state, with leaky roofs that rendered it uninhabitable on rainy days. Each governor assigned to the prefecture struggled financially, unable to fund the much-needed repairs.
Transferring Su Bin to such a ce provided an excellent opportunity to toughen his resolve and resilience..
Chapter 480 - 480: Achieving the Goal
Chapter 480 - 480: Achieving the Goal
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Public House didn¡¯t directly intervene; instead, they orchestrated other ministers to draft memorials and submit them to the emperor.
The memorials emphasized that as a minister in a significant role, Su Bin should be appreciative of the emperor¡¯s trust and give his utmost dedication to serving the nation and its citizens.
However, Su Bin seemed uninterested in improving. Love consumed him, and even after his wife, Qin Zhenzhen, became pregnant, he expressed a desire to apany her to her hometown for recuperation.
His focus remained solely on family matters, disregarding the emperor¡¯s expectations of him. To the emperor, Su Bin, a young man seeminglycking in understanding of the bigger picture, ced excessive importance on family affairs. He appeared narrow-minded and unfit for a position in the imperial court. Relocating him to a remote area for a period of training before reassessment seemed appropriate.
Simultaneously, Su Bin enlisted the support of a few officials to draft simr memorials, further urging the emperor to transfer him.
In addition to the Public House¡¯s involvement, a total of five to six officials had authored memorials, all staunchly advocating for Su Bin¡¯s relocation.
The emperor was truly perturbed when he received multiple requests for Su Bin¡¯s transfer. He was well aware that this was undoubtedly the handiwork of the Crown Prince and the Public House.
Although they hadn¡¯te forward directly, the emperor knew that the ministers who had penned the memorials were associated with the Public House.
The emperor was taken aback that other ministers, seemingly neutral, also held a disfavorable view of Su Bin.
Did this signify that Su Bin was genuinelycking in magnanimity?
Before these developments, Su Bin had written an anonymous letter to the emperor, as was his customary practice. In it, he analyzed the royal court¡¯s situation and advised the emperor to initially feignpliance with the Public House, awaiting a suitable moment to assert his authority.
After careful consideration, the emperor finally set aside his brush and issued an imperial edict.
In ordance with the celestial decree, the Emperor dered:
He explicitly appointed Su Bin as the governor of Shanglin Prefecture, instructing him to assume the position within two days.
With this, the governorship of Shanglin Prefecture City was elevated, and Su Bin was required to return to the capital to fulfill his new role.
The emperor also summoned Su Bin to the pce for a personal meeting, in which he assured Su Bin that this was, in reality, an opportunity for him to apany his wife on her journey back to her hometown for recuperation.
Su Bin had achieved his objective and concealed his tion, quickly expressing gratitude to his sovereign.
Observing Su Bin¡¯s evident happiness, the emperor privately concluded that Su Bin had indeed disyed ack of magnanimity. His earlier assessment had been mistaken.
Initially, the emperor had harbored guilt toward Su Bin, unable to confront the Public House directly. This guilt had led him to consent to Su Bin¡¯s reassignment from the capital.
However, that guilt had dissipated. The emperor now firmly believed that Su Bin was unsuitable for a role in the Court of Judicial Review.
The news of Su Bin¡¯s transfer from the capital by imperial decree swiftly disseminated through the streets andnes of the city.
¡°Did you hear thetest? Primus Su is leaving the capital to be the governor of a remote southern mountain city!¡±
¡°No way, right? The emperor just ced Primus Su in an important role and even arranged for him to join the Court of Judicial Review. Word was, he was going to take over as the minister of the Court of Judicial Review. Why the sudden change?¡±
¡°It¡¯s confirmed that Primus Su has been relocated from the capital. I heard that the emperor allowed him to apany his wife to her hometown. Coincidentally, there was a vacancy there, so they decided to have Primus Su take over.¡±
¡°In that case, it¡¯s not that the emperor doesn¡¯t value Primus Su, but he¡¯s given him the opportunity to apany his wife to her hometown.¡± Meanwhile, private discussions were held among those in the know.
¡°In truth, that¡¯s not the real reason¡
¡°It was the Crown Prince who deliberately suppressed Primus Su¡¡± ¡°Because the Crown Prince wants to have Divine Doctor Qin¡¡±
¡°Many have recognized that the Crown Prince and the Fifth Princess seek to frame Divine Doctor Qin and Primus Su¡¡±
The imperial family had amon tactic: if they couldn¡¯t have something, they¡¯d destroy it. The Crown Prince had already cultivated an air of arrogance..
Chapter 481 - 481: Bumpy Official Path
Chapter 481 - 481: Bumpy Official Path
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The Old Marquis, who had initially been despondent, felt a glimmer of excitement upon hearing of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s happiness.
Regardless of whether Su Bin chose to return to the Marquis Mansion and honor his ancestors or not, he remained the Old Marquis¡¯ grandson.
Furthermore, Su Bin was about to be a father, which meant that the Old Marquis was soon to be a great-grandfather.
The Old Marquis could barely contain his enthusiasm at the prospect of this new promotion.
If Qin Zhenzhen gave birth to a great-grandson who was willing to address him as such, he would have no regrets in life.
Regrettably, Su Bin had dered that he would never address him as ¡°grandpa¡± again.
Nevertheless, on the whole, the Old Marquis was overjoyed.
However, his tion was short-lived. Just as he was reveling in his newfound happiness, he learned that Su Bin had been reassigned from the capital to Shanglin Prefecture, a remote, impoverished area, as its governor.
The Old Marquis was taken aback, assuming that Su Bin, being young and inexperienced in the intricacies of bureaucracy, had either offended a certain minister or unintentionally incurred the emperor¡¯s displeasure.
Within the bureaucratic circles, Shanglin Prefecture was notorious for being the poorest, most turbulent, and wretched region in the nation, gued by rampant banditry. Two of its previous governors had met their demise at the hands of these bandits.
In in terms, bing the governor of Shanglin Prefecture was akin to a death sentence, a descent into hell.
Every governor in Shanglin Prefecture diligently sought a transfer from the moment they assumed their post, for if they remained there, their future was bleak.
Should anything untoward happen to Su Bin¡
The Old Marquis once again found himself in a somber mood.
Everything that had transpired left him deeply frustrated.
Ever since he had located Su Bin and the others, the Old Marquis had held onto a glimmer of hope that Su Bin would return to the Marquis Mansion and restore its former splendor.
Yet, Su Bin proved to be as obstinate as his father. He seemed more inclined to renounce his status as the heir of the Marquis Mansion than to reconcile with his past actions. The Old Marquis had wished for him to admit his errors and acknowledge his past negligence. Publicly confessing his shorings would amount to acknowledging that he had favored a concubine over his wife and contributed to her death-a profoundly shameful act and a vition of thew.
The emperor could seize this opportunity to strip him of his Marquis title and the hereditary system of the Marquis Mansion. The Old Marquis fervently wished that the Marquis Mansion would not cease to exist under his watch, as he would then be unable to face his ancestors in the afterlife.
Currently, Su Bin¡¯s official career appeared tumultuous, and the Old Marquis harbored concerns. Seeking information, he turned to his wife¡¯s family for answers.
¡°Has Su Bin offended the Crown Prince and the Public House? Is that why he was reassigned to Shanglin Prefecture?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s demeanor towards the Lin family starkly contrasted with his attitude towards the Old Marquis.
Su Bin found it impossible to forgive the Old Marquis¡¯ self-centeredness, nor could he condone the fact that the Old Marquis had chosen to keep the past events hidden in order to safeguard the Marquis Mansion.
However, Su Bin held no grievances against the Lin family. Additionally, the Lin family¡¯s affiliation with the Third Prince and the General Manor naturally aligned him with their interests.
The Lin family was privy to Su Bin¡¯s true reasons for leaving the capital, while the Old Marquis remained in the dark.
Nheless, Su Bin did not disclose the full extent of his situation to the Lin family. He only offered a brief exnation, saying, ¡°That¡¯s correct.¡±
¡°Before Su Bin became the Primus, both the Public House and the Crown Prince sought to enlist him on their side, but Su Bin declined.¡±
When Su Bin was appointed to the Court of Judicial Review, the Public House grew anxious. Concurrently, rumors circted in the streets, alleging that Su Bin was petty, solely preupied with family matters, and disregarding state affairs. The Public House enlisted several ministers to submit memorials to the emperor, who ultimately bought into their usations and issued an imperial edict.
The rumors suggesting that Su Bin wished to apany his wife to her hometown may well have been intentionally spread by individuals associated with the Public House.
Upon learning of the Lin family¡¯s ount, the Old Marquis was incensed and expressed a desire to reason with the Emperor..
Chapter 482 - 482: Willing
Chapter 482 - 482: Willing
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The Old Marquis, his indignation apparent, dered his intent to reason with the Emperor.
Lin Nan responded with a mocking tone, ¡°Your Excellency, what means do you have to reason with the Emperor?¡±
Several generations ago, the Old Marquis¡¯ ancestors had made significant contributions to the Chu family. This heritage had brought the Marquis Mansion several generations of prosperity, allowing its descendants to live luxuriously without any need for personal achievements.
However, the descendants of the Marquis Mansion had failed to inherit the courage of their forebears. Each generation seemed to be less capable than thest. They did not possess martial skills, schrly knowledge, the aptitude for government service, or the business acumen required to seed.
In particr, the Old Marquis¡¯ descendants were perceived as even more inept. In the eyes of many, the Marquis Mansion¡¯s scions were little more than a collection of ineffectual individuals waiting for their lives toe to an end.
Ultimately, the Marquis Mansion had relied on the Imperial Court for its wealth and prestige, thereby leading an enviable existence without the need to strive or exert effort.
For some time, the royal family had aimed to abolish the hereditary system of the Marquis Mansion. In fact, after Su Bin¡¯s father had abandoned his family, the emperor had refused to recognize the Old Marquis¡¯ legal wife as such, consistently referring to her as a concubine. This had been a deliberate move towards abolishing the Marquis Mansion¡¯s hereditary privileges.
In light of these circumstances, how could the Old Marquis hope to reason with the Emperor?
The Old Marquis¡¯ face reddened, and he retorted, ¡°Lin Nan, do not underestimate our Marquis Mansion!¡±
¡°While I may not possess any substantial argument to present before the
Emperor, the Marquis Mansion¡¯s ancestors left behind a trump card.¡±
¡°I refuse to believe that I can¡¯t exchange the death exemption medal for Bin¡¯er¡¯s transfer order!¡± the Old Marquis dered firmly.
Lin Nan was taken aback by this unexpected turn of events. ¡°Are you truly willing to use the death exemption medal to secure Su Bin¡¯s future?¡±
It was reasonable for the Old Marquis to contemte this course of action if Su Bin were to return to the Marquis Mansion to pay respects to his ancestors. However, now that Su Bin had made it clear that he had no intention of doing so, it was somewhat unusual for the Old Marquis to willingly consider such a sacrifice.
After all, the death exemption medal was a treasured heirloom passed down by their ancestors that had the power to safeguard the Marquis Mansion and its members.
Nevertheless, the Old Marquis stood tall, his determination unwavering. ¡°While Bin¡¯er hasn¡¯t returned to the Marquis Mansion, he has addressed me as his grandfather. He is my biological grandson, and I am his biological grandfather. This fact cannot be disputed.¡±
¡°The primary purpose of the death exemption medal, earned by our ancestors with their lives, is to protect the lives of their descendants. By using the death exemption medal to secure Bin¡¯er¡¯s future, I am essentially protecting his life. Doesn¡¯t that make perfect sense?!¡±
Lin Nan observed the Old Marquis¡¯s earnest expression and sensed that he was quite serious about this proposition. Was the Old Marquis attempting to influence Su Bin with this gesture, or was he genuinely prepared to make this sacrifice for his grandson?
Regardless of the circumstances, Lin Nan felt that it wasn¡¯t in Su Bin¡¯s best interest for the Old Marquis to take such action.
After all, Su Bin had chosen to leave the capital of his own ord. Moreover, he had conveyed that Shanglin Prefecture was not as dire as the rumors suggested. In his view, serving as the governor of Shanglin Prefecture was a safer optionpared to remaining in the capital.
Unable to dissuade the Old Marquis, Lin Nan offered a serious word of advice. ¡°Surrendering the death exemption medal is a momentous decision. I believe you should discuss it with Su Bin first to prevent any misunderstandings regarding your intentions.¡±
The Old Marquis nodded firmly. ¡°I will have a conversation with Bin¡¯er.¡±
He intended to have a clear discussion with Su Bin, emphasizing that he was offering his support willingly and without any ulterior motives.
After the Old Marquis had departed from the Lin Mansion, Lin Nan remained concerned about the situation. He chose to dispatch a messenger to deliver a letter to Su Bin, informing him of the Old Marquis¡¯s decision.
Upon receiving the letter, Su Bin furrowed his brow, clearly contemting the potential implications.
While the Old Marquis¡¯s intentions were undoubtedly kind, Su Bin was well aware that such a move could jeopardize his own n. He considered going to speak with the Old Marquis about this matter.
However, before Su Bin could take any action, a messenger arrived from the Old Marquis with an invitation to meet at Zhenzhen Restaurant..
Chapter 483 - 483: I Can’t Debt You Anymore
Chapter 483 - 483: I Can¡¯t Debt You Anymore
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When they first encountered each other, Su Bin experienced a whirlwind of emotions.
Initially, he had believed that the Old Marquis had abandoned him after theirst resolute exchange of words. Little did he anticipate that the Old Marquis would be willing to utilize the death exemption medal to potentially ¡°rescue¡± his future.
Was the Old Marquis genuinely attempting to reform him? The Old Marquis¡¯s sincerity in deploying the death-exemption medal to persuade him spoke volumes.
Nevertheless, Su Bin remained unwavering in his stance, adamant that he wouldn¡¯tpromise unless the Old Marquis publicly acknowledged his past mistakes and expunged thebels of youth, ignorance, rebellion, and unfilial behavior that had been attributed to him.
With a wry smile, he contemted how the Old Marquis would approach this matter.
The Old Marquis breathed a sigh of relief upon spotting Su Bin¡¯s arrival. Su Bin had vowed never to address him as ¡°grandpa¡± again, asserting that they would have no further association.
However, the fact that Su Bin was now willing to engage with him hinted at a potential turn of events for the better. The Old Marquis couldn¡¯t help but retain a glimmer of hope.
He had contemted using the death exemption token as a means to soften Su
Bin¡¯s heart and ultimately entice him back to the Marquis Mansion. Yet, even if Su Bin declined to return, he resolved not to regret his decision. He already owed his eldest son; he didn¡¯t wish to rue any more debts, especially with his eldest grandson.
Su Bin, unreservedly aware of the situation, didn¡¯t hold back.
¡°Marquis, are you genuinely intending to part with the death exemption medal?¡± The pain in the Old Marquis¡¯s heart deepened as he realized that Su Bin no longer addressed him as ¡°grandpa.¡±
He nodded, his spirits slightly dampened. ¡°Yes.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s countenance remained inscrutable as he offered his counsel. ¡°I strongly advise against this course of action because it ultimately serves no purpose.¡±
The Old Marquis suddenly brimmed with enthusiasm. ¡°Even if it¡¯s purposeless, I am willing to do it!¡±
He instantly grasped that Su Bin¡¯s message implied that even if he presented the death exemption card, Su Bin wouldn¡¯t value his benevolence, let alone soften his stance and return to the Marquis Mansion. Therefore, he intended to convey to Su Bin his willingness without any additional conditions.
Su Bin was momentarily taken aback, then adopted a more gentle tone. ¡°I believe obtaining a death exemption medal isn¡¯t a simple matter. It shouldn¡¯t be squandered on this issue.¡±
The Old Marquis remained fervent. ¡°Are you aware that two governors of Shanglin Prefecture fell victim to bandits¡¯ brutality? Isn¡¯t your life worth a death exemption medal?¡±
Su Bin fell into contemtive silence for a while before elucidating, ¡°Their deaths are intertwined with their official conduct.¡±
Shanglin Prefecture was already impoverished, yet they persisted in exploiting its residents. It came as no surprise that someone would seek retribution on behalf of the suffering popce. The bandits lurking in the mountains had a fearsome reputation.
While others might remain oblivious to these facts, the Dragon Phoenix Hall was well-informed.
The Old Marquis delved deeper into thought and grasped Su Bin¡¯s perspective.
He understood that Su Bin believed that, as long as he refrained from engaging in corrupt practices as an official, he wouldn¡¯t meet the same fate as the two governors who had met their untimely demise in Shanglin Prefecture.
¡°Precaution is better than regret. In any case, Shanglin Prefecture is a perilous ce, and I¡¯ll make every effort to avoid it.¡±
¡°Bin¡¯er, I already owe your father a great debt. Regardless of the circumstances, I cannot incur further obligations to you. Nothing is more important than safeguarding your lives, so please don¡¯t hinder me in this.¡±
¡°I brought you here merely to inform you. Whether you appreciate it or not, my decision has been made!¡±
With that deration, the Old Marquis rose to his feet, intending to depart. Su Bin had no choice but to stand up and intercept him.
¡°Please, sit down and allow me to elucidate.¡±
The Old Marquis, realizing his hasty decision and feeling remorse, decided to ept Su Bin¡¯s offer for further discussion.
Observing the Old Marquis reseat himself, Su Bin proceeded to borate.
¡°In truth, I believe it¡¯s far safer to venture to Shanglin Prefecture than to serve as an official in the capital.¡±
¡°The emperor has appointed me to the Court of Judicial Review as a deputy minister, and his intentions are well-known to all..¡±
Chapter 484 - 484: Doing Something Bad Out of Goodwill
Chapter 484 - 484: Doing Something Bad Out of Goodwill
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¡°The Court of Judicial Review is a coveted position, and it¡¯s in high demand.
Many seek to ce their own candidates there.¡±
¡°The emperor¡¯s motives are likely to uncover certain individuals through this opportunity.¡±
¡°Initially, I too saw this as a great chance, but when I assumed my role at the Court of Judicial Review, I soon realized that attaining the position of minister there isn¡¯t a simple feat.¡±
¡°Pandering to one faction often means antagonizing another. Given myck of connections, I fear that I might not live to see that seat.¡±
¡°Hence, I believe that departing from the capital is a wise decision.¡±
¡°There¡¯s another significant reason for our willingness to leave the capital.¡±
¡°Zhenzhen isn¡¯t limated to the capital¡¯s climate, and with her pregnancy, her difort has intensified. She needs to return to her hometown.¡±
¡°But I can¡¯t entrust her with the journey alone.¡±
¡°For her, I¡¯m ready to forgo my high-ranking post.¡±
After Su Bin divulged this extensive exnation, the Old Marquis finallyprehended Su Bin¡¯s underlying message. Su Bin sought to convince him to stay in the capital and align with the Crown Prince¡¯s faction.
While the Third Prince had the support of the General Manor, the Crown Prince already held the esteemed title and had the backing of both the Public House and the Empress Dowager. The Public House was renowned for grooming politically astute civil officials, effectively controlling over 60% of the royal court¡¯s influence. In contrast, the General Manor primarily produced military officials, experts in battlefield matters but often unfamiliar with court politics.
The Emperor¡¯s forting marriage to a daughter from both the General Manor and the Public House further tilted the scales in favor of thetter. Historically, the General Manor had seldom triumphed over the Public House in power struggles.
If the Third Prince were to challenge the Crown Prince for the throne, the Third Prince would inevitably be the one to suffer defeat.
However, Su Bin¡¯s countenance darkened as he added, ¡°There are certain matters you are unaware of, and I have no intention of exining them further to you.¡±
Many individuals were well aware of the rumors surrounding the Crown Prince¡¯s attempt to catch a glimpse of his wife¡¯s beauty, and the Old Marquis was likely no exception.
Given these circumstances, the Old Marquis¡¯s advice to Su Bin to align with the Crown Prince¡¯s faction raised questions. Did he value his own future over his dignity?
Any trace of goodwill Su Bin had harbored for the Old Marquis vanished once again.
The Old Marquis, on the other hand, deeply regretted his attempt to persuade Su Bin. He hadn¡¯t anticipated the magnitude of Su Bin¡¯s reaction.
He had believed that he was acting kindly, yet he remained oblivious to the unintended negative consequences of his actions.
He had indeed heard murmurs about the Crown Prince¡¯s inappropriate behavior. However, he presumed that the Crown Prince¡¯s conduct was a passing impulse. With Qin Zhenzhen now married to Su Bin and carrying his child, the Crown Prince should have suppressed his inclinations.
Previously, the Marquis Mansion had aligned with the Public House¡¯s interests,ter opting for a neutral stance.
This shift urred because the Public House began to perceive the Marquis Mansion as less useful, gradually sidelining them.
For one, despite the Marquis Mansion¡¯s formidable power and deep-rooted connections, it hadn¡¯t produced any notable talents for generations. Even if they secured official positions, their ineffectiveness risked tarnishing their rtionships.
Moreover, the Public House shared the Emperor¡¯s sentiment regarding the Marquis Mansion¡¯s hereditary system, deeming it unreasonable and contemting ways to abolish it, thereby saving a considerable sum annually.
Apart from his genuine concern for Su Bin¡¯s future, the Old Marquis also harbored personal interests in persuading Su Bin to align with the Public House and the Crown Prince.
Both Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen were highly gifted individuals, and their alignment with the Public House and the Crown Prince could yield significant benefits. If they were willing to stand by their side, it would be mutually advantageous for Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen, and the Marquis Mansion.
Su Bin¡¯s countenance grew even more somber. ¡°I provided all those exnations to emphasize that you should refrain from interfering!¡±
¡°Furthermore, we¡¯ve severed our ties with the Marquis Mansion, so you need not concern yourself with our affairs.¡±
At this juncture, the Old Marquis knew better than to attempt further persuasion. He hadn¡¯t anticipated that his rtionship with Su Bin would deteriorate even further..
Chapter 485 - 485: Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Chapter 485 - 485: Out of Sight, Out of Mind
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When Su Bin returned home, his expression remained dark.
Qin Zhenzhen gently pulled him into the room. ¡°What¡¯s bothering you so much?¡±
Su Bin recounted the events that had transpired.
¡°At first, I was somewhat moved, but not to the extent of being deeply touched.¡±
¡°However,ter on, he actually urged me to align with the Crown Prince¡¯s faction. I couldn¡¯t bear it!¡±
¡°He should be well aware of the Crown Prince¡¯s character!¡±
¡°Ultimately, it¡¯s his own self-interest at y!¡±
¡°He seems to believe that by offering the death exemption token, he can keep me in the capital. If I were to be the Crown Prince¡¯s subordinate, the benefits to the Marquis Mansion might outweigh the value of a death exemption token.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen consoled him, ¡°Don¡¯t let it get to you. In reality, he¡¯s primarily concerned about your safety. His intentions are good.¡± ¡°At the very least, he¡¯s willing to use the death exemption card for your sake.¡±
¡°As for selfishness, everyone possesses a degree of it.¡±
Su Bin embraced Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Wife, you¡¯re quite forgiving of him. You¡¯re right; I won¡¯t be upset anymore.¡±
¡°As long as he refrains from attempting to outsmart us, this matter will be put to rest.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Exactly. We¡¯re leaving the capital anyway.¡±
Finally, Su Bin managed a smile. ¡°You¡¯re right, out of sight, out of mind.¡±
The revtion of the Old Marquis¡¯s intention to utilize the death exemption token in exchange for Su Bin¡¯s transfer order with the Emperor swiftly reached the Crown Prince¡¯s ears.
Word of Su Bin¡¯s rendezvous with the Old Marquis at Zhenzhen Restaurant spread
throughout the capital, prompting widespread discussion.
People couldn¡¯t help but specte about the sudden death of the Marquis Mansion¡¯s Madame, surmising that it might be a form of retribution.
The prevailing belief was that she hadmitted an unforgivable act. She had initially poisoned the Old Marquis¡¯s wife, then falsely incriminated Su Bin with the intent to sabotage his future. Her actions had been so reprehensible that even the Old Marquis couldn¡¯t tolerate them.
However, the Old Marquis stillcked the courage to publicly acknowledge his mistake from that time.
Su Bin remained steadfast in his principles, emphasizing the importance of respecting their father¡¯s decisions and not opposing them. Unless the Old Marquis openly admitted his fault, Su Bin wouldn¡¯tpromise.
These stories proliferated, generating a range of responses. Some individuals sympathized with the Old Marquis,uding his evident sincerity. Others criticized him for failing to summon the courage to admit his mistake. There were even those who chastised Su Bin for being unyielding.
¡°Do you believe that the Old Marquis¡¯s offer to use the death exemption card is genuine or a facade?¡±
¡°It¡¯s authentic! I heard that the Old Marquis had made up his mind about this. His sons and grandsons jointly blocked his path and pleaded with him to reconsider. They even knelt in unison, imploring him to leave the family heirloom behind.¡±
¡°Nheless, the Old Marquis remained resolute, donned a stern countenance, and instructed the guards to forcibly remove them one by one. He warned them that any further attempts to obstruct him would result in punishment.¡± Elder voices arose in defense of the Old Marquis.
¡°I believe that, given the Old Marquis¡¯s willingness to present the death exemption card, Primus Su should consider reuniting with his siblings at the Marquis Mansion.¡±
¡°Let bygones be bygones.¡±
¡°In my opinion, even if the Old Marquis doesn¡¯t offer the death exemption card, Primus Su shoulde back to the Marquis Mansion to pay respects to his forebears. It¡¯s the responsibility of a grandson!¡± The young man voiced his support for Su Bin.
¡°Ipletely agree with Primus Su!¡±
¡°If you argue that Primus Su should return to the Marquis Mansion to fulfill his duty as a grandson by acknowledging his ancestors and family, then let me pose this question: Did Su Bin forsake his responsibility as a son by defying his father¡¯s wishes?¡±
¡°I heard that Primus Su declined the Old Marquis¡¯s offer and preferred to forgo the death exemption card rather than be indebted to him.. That¡¯s a testament to his strong principles!¡±
Chapter 486 - 486: Regret
Chapter 486 - 486: Regret
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The discussions among the popce in the capital swiftly made their way to the Crown Prince¡¯s residence.
Concerned that the Old Marquis might indeed produce the death exemption token and disrupt his ns, the Crown Prince dispatched an envoy to caution the Old Marquis.
¡°Did you contemte the repercussions before considering the use of the exemption card?¡±
¡°You must fathom whom Su Bin has antagonized!¡±
¡°Let me make it clear, the death exemption card can provide temporary protection, but it cannot ensure eternal safety!¡±
¡°If Su Bin persists in remaining in the capital, you¡¯ll be dooming both him and the Marquis Mansion!¡±
The Old Marquis was drenched in a cold sweat.
He hadn¡¯t foreseen the Crown Prince¡¯s audacity.
Contemting the possibility of the Crown Prince destroying the Marquis Mansion upon his ascent to the throne left the Old Marquis incensed and remorseful.
He hadn¡¯t expected Su Bin and the Crown Prince to be in such discord, shedding light on why Su Bin had reacted so strongly to his persuasion to side with the Crown Prince.
The Crown Prince¡¯s emissary still awaited the Old Marquis¡¯s response, prepared to stay until it was delivered.
With little choice, the Old Marquis had to suppress his vexation and feign helplessness.
¡°I¡ won¡¯t employ the death exemption card¡¡¯
Receiving this desired answer, the envoy returned contentedly to the Crown Prince¡¯s residence to convey the information.
The Old Marquis wiped away his cold sweat, recognizing that without the Emperor¡¯s protection, Su Bin might have met an untimely end long ago.
Su Bin¡¯s assertion that staying in the capital was more perilous had gained rity.
The Old Marquis gazed in the direction of Su Bin¡¯s residence and mumbled to himself, ¡°I hope you¡¯ll remain safe and sound in Shanglin Prefecture once you¡¯re there.¡±
¡°I hope we¡¯ll cross paths again.¡±
The Old Marquis then shifted his attention towards the General Manor and muttered, ¡°General Manor, oh General Manor! Can you assert your dignity and outshine the Public House for all to see?¡±
The more formidable the Public House became, the more haughty they grew, eliciting resentment from an increasing number of individuals.
Nevertheless, no matter how many people voiced their grievances against the Public House, it remained the supreme authority in the capital.
Even the Emperor within the pce ultimately fell within their sphere of influence, let alone the civil and military officials and the popce of the capital.
The Old Marquis shook his head with a tinge of self-deprecation.
¡°I know it¡¯s a formidable task for you to achieve that. I¡¯m merely indulging in wishful thinking.¡±
¡°But if you can¡¯t aplish it, cease your meddling!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t bring harm upon yourself and others!¡±
The Old Marquis began to ce me on the General Manor.
He wasn¡¯t entirely naive. He could surmise that the Crown Prince sought to eliminate Su Bin, with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s presence being a secondary factor. The primary motivey in his inability to draw Su Bin to his side. Hence, he chose to transfer Su Bin as a means to rid himself of this perceived threat.
The Old Marquis felt that the General Manor had a role inpelling Su Bin¡¯s departure.
Had the General Manor and the Third Prince been more cooperative, they wouldn¡¯t have inadvertently implicated Su Bin.
The Emperor was well aware of the Old Marquis¡¯s intention to offer the death exemption card in exchange for Su Bin¡¯s transfer.
The Emperor swiftly reached a decision, opting to grant the Old Marquis permission to employ the death exemption card.
This choice stemmed from the Emperor¡¯s own regrets after approving Su Bin¡¯s transfer order. Upon reviewing all of Su Bin¡¯s writings, he held suspicions that the anonymous letter¡¯s author was none other than Su Bin. Yet, hecked concrete evidence.
To delve deeper and confirm his suspicions, Su Bin needed to remain in the capital. If Su Bin indeed authored the anonymous letter, the Emperor couldn¡¯t simply let him slip away.
So, the Emperor awaited the Old Marquis¡¯s audience request for the death exemption card in the pce. However, hours passed with no sign of him.
Subsequently, the Emperor discovered that the Crown Prince had dispatched a warning to the Old Marquis.
It seemed Old Hou might have had a change of heart due to this warning, ultimately dismissing the idea of utilizing the death exemption card to rescue su Bin..
Chapter 487 - 487: Reminder
Chapter 487 - 487: Reminder
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Upon learning about the Old Marquis¡¯s change of heart, the Emperor was incensed. He perceived the Crown Prince¡¯s increasing disregard for him as his father.
The Crown Prince, aware of the backing from both the Public House and the
Empress Dowager, had grown increasingly audacious in his actions. As the Emperor, he found himself bound by the Public House and the Empress Dowager, having no choice but to confront the Public House.
After some contemtion, the Emperor concluded that he should retract Su Bin¡¯s transfer order. This would provide him the opportunity to ascertain whether Su Bin was indeed the author of the anonymous letter, understand Su Bin¡¯s background, and evaluate his potential usefulness.
However, the Emperor had already made a public announcement regarding Su Bin¡¯s mistakes and the n to transfer him to Shanglin Prefecture. To backtrack on his decision, he needed to provide Su Bin with an honorable exit.
The following day, during the court session, the Emperor addressed Su Bin¡¯s transgressions and his scheduled transfer to Shanglin Prefecture. He believed that if a minister interceded on Su Bin¡¯s behalf, it would offer a way out for him.
Consequently, the Emperor promptly rescinded Su Bin¡¯s transfer order.
To his surprise, the two ministers he had arranged to appeal for Su Bin failed to appear in court that day. One had suddenly fallen ill, while the other had sprained his ankle on the way to court.
The Emperor¡¯s countenance darkened as he pondered the imusible coincidence.
There was no doubt that these events were orchestrated by the Public House and the Crown Prince.
It was amentable state of affairs when, as an Emperor, he couldn¡¯t even count on a trusted minister. Even if he had one, the Public House held them in check, much like his own predicament.
The Emperor cast a cold, deliberate gaze at the assembly of civil and military officials, his eyes lingering longer on the ministers from the neutral faction.
However, these ministers merely lowered their heads slightly. Even though they sensed the Emperor¡¯s prating stare, they refrained from speaking out.
The Emperor issued a gentle reminder, ¡°Ministers, please raise your heads. If you have any views, don¡¯t hesitate to express them.¡±
¡°My esteemed ministers, you ought to recognize that I am not an arbitrary ruler.¡±
The Emperor inwardly mused, ¡®I¡¯ve been quite explicit with my hints. There must be one or two ministers on my side, right?¡¯
Subsequently, the civil and military officials lifted their heads. Nevertheless,
no minister emerged to advocate for Su Bin.
What¡¯s more, they voiced unanimous praise, asserting, ¡°Your Majesty disys wisdom! Someone as narrow-minded as Su Bin, who prioritizes his family over his nation, is truly ill-equipped to shoulder the weighty responsibilities!¡±
One minister even fervently dered, ¡°The Court of Judicial Review holds a sacred position. Allowing such an emotionally driven individual to enter would be a national cmity.¡±
¡°Fortunately, Your Majesty¡¯s sagacity and decisiveness averted this peril.¡±
The Emperor¡¯s expression darkened. The minister who had spoken was from the Public House. Did he make such remarks intentionally to humiliate the
Emperor, or had he forgotten that the decision to have Su Bin join the Court of Judicial Review originated from the Emperor¡¯s decree?
The Emperor duly noted this minister¡¯s name and position.
While he couldn¡¯t immediately confront the Public House, he contemted targeting ministers who supported it.
He would deal with them one by one.
In onest attempt, the Emperor turned his attention to Minister Lin. ¡°Minister Lin, do you have anything to add?¡±
He paid no heed to avoiding suspicion. If Minister Lin was willing to intercede for Su Bin, the Emperor was prepared to back that course of action.
Minister Lin, as Su Bin¡¯s granduncle, seemed logically inclined to speak up for his rtive or plead for leniency.
Minister Lin, however, appeared ashamed and replied, ¡°Your Majesty, I have nothing to add except for my sense of shame!¡±
The Emperor¡¯s anger red, and he reminded Minister Lin, ¡°Minister Lin, you¡¯ve devoted your life to serving the country and its people. I am well aware of your dedication.¡±
¡°If you have any requests, I grant you the opportunity to make them.¡±
Yet, Minister Lin remained visibly ashamed and murmured, ¡°I dare not make any requests!¡±
Chapter 488 - 488: It’s Equal to Dying
Chapter 488: It¡¯s Equal to Dying
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¡°In truth, I must express my gratitude to the Emperor. Thank you for not imposing severe punishment on Su Bin because of me,¡± Minister Lin expressed with gratitude.
The Emperor intended to reiterate his point to Minister Lin but was interrupted by Lord State Duke.
¡°Your Majesty, rebels in the south have been causing unrest for some time now.
May I suggest issuing a decree to dispatch troops to quell the rebellion?¡±
The civil and military officials joined in, urging, ¡°Your Majesty, please issue the decree to quell the rebellion!¡±
The Emperor suppressed his inner turmoil. He recalled the anonymous letter¡¯s warning about not directly confronting the Public House when his own resources werecking.
It seemed improbable to retract Su Bin¡¯s transfer order.
Inwardly sighing, the Emperor inquired, ¡°Esteemed ministers, which general should lead this campaign?
Before the ministers could voice their suggestions, Lord State Duke preempted them.
¡°Dispatching troops from the capital poses a lengthy journey, and the soldiers may struggle to limatize to the southern climate, which could detrimentally impact theirbat readiness. I find it more suitable to deploy troops from the closest military camp.¡±
The other ministers unanimously agreed, saying, ¡°Lord State Duke¡¯s insight is astute.¡±
The Emperor had no choice but to follow Lord State Duke¡¯s suggestion. ¡°Are you proposing sending troops from the nearest military camp?¡±
Lord State Duke nodded. ¡°Your Majesty is wise, that¡¯s precisely our rmendation. ¡±
Unbeknownst to the Emperor, the nearest military camp was the 200,000-strong army stationed at the southern border. The suprememander hailed from the Public House, and the Public House held dominion over the military force.
Lord State Duke¡¯s suggestion of deploying troops from the southern army prompted spection regarding potential ulterior motives. It was a well-known tactic employed by the Public House. Whenever they wished to promote someone, they¡¯d propose that this individual take charge of suppressing riots or besieging bandits in a specific area. These actions, whether quelling unrest or encircling bandits, were typically straightforward tasks. By deploying additional soldiers to stage an ostentatious show of force and achieving a significant victory, those inmand would naturally receive promotions.
The question remained: who were they seeking to promote on this asion?
The Emperor furrowed his brow slightly and queried, ¡°The number of troops already guarding the southern border is limited. In addition, the terrain is intricate, and a distributed defense is essential. Would deploying troops from there notpromise border security?¡±
The recent outbreak of unrest urred in a southern county, and the scale of the disturbance was quite substantial. To address it effectively, at least ten thousand troops would need to be dispatched.
The Public House¡¯s actions appeared unusual. Under normal circumstances, they wouldn¡¯t rmend relocating soldiers from the southern camp to other locations.
Lord State Duke offered rification, ¡°The southern border is currently well-protected, with no immediate threat from enemy forces. Deploying a smaller force to address the turmoil is feasible.¡¯
¡°I¡¯ve heard that a valiant young general has recently emerged at the southern military camp. Despite serving for less than two years, he has already made significant contributions.¡±
¡°He has ascended from a decurion to a tribune solely on the basis of his abilities. ¡±
¡°His name is Qin Silong, and he is the younger brother of Su Bin¡¯s wife, Qin
Zhenzhen. ¡±
Lord State Duke then proposed, ¡°I suggest entrusting him with leading the troops to quell the disturbance.¡±
The Emperor found this suggestion rather surprising.
The Emperor began to question the Public House¡¯s motives. They appeared to be targeting Su Bin while alsouding Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s younger brother, Qin Silong.
What was their strategy? Were they aiming to extend their goodwill to Qin Zhenzhen while undermining Su Bin?
Had they abandoned their initial n to capture them both in one fell swoop?
The Emperor¡¯s brow furrowed, and he inquired, ¡°Qin Silong is merely a chiliarch. How can he lead troops into such a situation?¡±
Sending only 1,000 soldiers to quell the unrest was a recipe for disaster..
Chapter 489 - 489: Won ‘t Disappoint The Emperor
Chapter 489: Won ¡®t Disappoint The Emperor
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Lord State Duke continued, ¡°Your Majesty, the generals at the southern border are indeed upied, but I believe that Qin Silong¡¯sbat experience is not inferior to the other officers.
¡°I propose that we make an exception and grant Qin Silong the temporary rank of major general. We can allocate 5,000 troops from the military camp and 5,000 from the local area to assemble a force of 10,000 soldiers.¡±
The Emperor remained unconvinced. ¡°Appointing a chiliarch to suddenlymand 5,000 to 10,000 troops appears rather far-fetched!¡±
Aware that he couldn¡¯t resist the Public House¡¯s influence and was uncertain of their intentions, the Emperor sought to challenge their proposition and discern their motives.
As anticipated, Lord State Duke responded, ¡°Do not fret, Your Majesty. We can assign an experienced deputy general to apany him.¡±
¡°If Qin Silong returns triumphant, we shall promote him to the rank of major general.¡±
The Emperor inquired further, ¡°What if he fails?¡±
Was the Public House attempting to exploit this opportunity to penalize him?
Lord State Duke addressed the Emperor with utmost gravity, saying, ¡°Your
Majesty, it is a grave offense to anticipate defeat before embarking on a military campaign! ¡±
Reprimanded by Lord State Duke on the spot, the Emperor flushed with embarrassment but refrained from reacting strongly.
Thankfully, Lord State Duke swiftly softened his stance. ¡°However, the unpredictability of victory and defeat is an inherent aspect of warfare. It is not umon for the Emperor to harbor concerns.¡±
¡°In the event of an unfortunate defeat, the situation will be evaluated objectively. Those deserving of punishment shall be penalized, while those who should be spared will not be unfairly med. Is that not so, Your Majesty?¡±
The Emperor responded awkwardly, ¡°Lord State Duke, you are correct.¡±
And so, the decision to dispatch Qin Silong to lead troops to quell the unrest was confirmed.
Su Bin¡¯s transfer order had finally reached his hands, and upon receiving it, he immediately began making preparations for his departure.
Initially, he had assumed that the transfer would not ur so rapidly, intending to send Qin Zhenzhen out of the capital first. However, with the sudden issuance of the transfer order, Su Bin changed his ns and decided to leave the capital with Qin Zhenzhen and his sister.
Before Su Bin¡¯s departure from the capital, the emperor, perturbed by the uncertainties of the Public House¡¯s intentions towards Su Bin, summoned him to the pce for questioning.
The emperor couldn¡¯t fathom whether the Public House was nning to destroy Su Bin or entice him. If their goal was to eliminate Su Bin, they could have simply imposed the death penalty. Why then expend so much effort to transfer him to Shanglin Prefecture?
Moreover, suggesting that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s fourth brother lead the troops to quell the unrest indicated that the Public House might be aiming to attract talented individuals.
The first step involved moving Su Bin, who had spurned their advances, out of the capital. The harsh conditions in Shanglin Prefecture would serve to wear down his sharpness and pride. When he was on the brink of death, they would rescue him and thereby earn his gratitude.
The emperor did consider an alternative possibility but deemed it unlikely.
¡°Do you know why I¡¯ve arranged for your transfer out of the capital?¡± the emperor inquired.
Su Bin responded respectfully, ¡°I believe it¡¯s to refine my temperament, Your
Majesty.¡±
The emperor examined him closely. ¡°Is that the only reason?¡±
Su Bin replied, ¡°As far as I am aware, that is the primary reason, Your Majesty.¡±
The emperor was aware of the situation with the Public House, and Su Bin also knew that he was being tested. Nevertheless, they could maintain a tacit understanding without delving into these matters.
Why did the emperor feelpelled to inquire about the reasons behind his actions?
The emperor posed another question, ¡°Have you ever harbored resentment toward me for your transfer out of the capital?¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but find this amusing. He recognized that the emperor was testing him, but there was no way he would allow the emperor to see through his true feelings.
Su Bin feigned fear, responding, ¡°Your Majesty, you must be jesting. How could
I ever hold any resentment against you?¡±
¡°Since Your Majesty granted Jiang Chen the exceptional position of Primus, I have been exceedingly grateful. Now, as the emperor arranges for Jiang Chen to be an official in Shanglin Prefecture, my gratitude towards Your
Majesty only deepens.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s ttery left the emperor feeling ufortable and a bit irritated. ¡°You are being demoted! Why would you be so grateful?¡±
Nevertheless, Su Bin remained steadfast, saying with conviction, ¡°Your Majesty, I do not see this as a demotion. There¡¯s an ancient saying that before bestowing a great responsibility, the heavens first temper a person¡¯s will and strength. I view this as Your Majesty giving me an opportunity for training.¡±
¡°I will wholeheartedly manage Shanglin Prefecture, and I promise not to disappoint Your Majesty..¡±
Chapter 490 - 490: Suspicion
Chapter 490 - 490: Suspicion
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The emperor probed Su Bin once more, asking, ¡°Do you hold grudges against anyone else?¡±
Su Bin responded with cunning tact, saying, ¡°If I were to im I harbor no ill feelings towards others, Your Majesty might doubt my honesty. On the other hand, if I were to disclose those I resent, I find it difficult to pinpoint a specific target.¡±
As he uttered these words, he bore a strained expression, subtly implying to the Emperor, ¡°Your Majesty, are you not aware of the countless spies and informants in your midst? Anything I say will swiftly reach the Public House, and how can I afford to speak the truth? Moreover, it was the Public House that orchestrated my relocation from the capital, an action you may not be privy to. ¡±
The Emperor grasped the message hidden in Su Bin¡¯s words. He hadn¡¯t realized that Su Bin had intentionally misled him.
¡°Hehe, Minister Su, your generosity is truly admirable,¡± the Emperor eximed with a smile,vishing praise upon Su Bin.
Changing the subject, the Emperor continued, ¡°I¡¯ve heard that your calligraphy is quite remarkable. Before you depart, why don¡¯t you leave behind a set of characters for me?¡±
Su Bin had no valid reason to decline, and so, the brush and ink were promptly readied.
The Emperor observed as Su Bin¡¯s brush strokes flowed like a graceful stream. When Su Binpleted the set, the Emperorplimented, ¡°Minister Su¡¯s calligraphy is truly exceptional! I intend to have it framed and disyed on my wall for admiration.
Observing that Su Bin was on the verge of setting down his pen, the emperor was struck by an idea. He inquired, ¡°Minister Su, can you craft another piece using your left hand?¡±
Su Bin hesitated and responded, ¡°Your Majesty, I have never attempted to write with my left hand. If I were to attempt it, I fear the result might appear irregr and mar your perception.¡±
In that moment, Su Bin clearlyprehended the emperor¡¯s motive. The emperor suspected that he might be the author of the anonymous letter and sought to confirm if the left-handed writing matched that of the letter. The emperor likely assumed he wouldn¡¯t have employed another person to draft the anonymous message, deducing from the handwriting that he himself had employed his non-dominant hand.
¡°Hahaha! Minister Su, have no concerns. Even if it¡¯s unsteady, it won¡¯t displease my eyes!¡±
With no alternative but to oblige, Su Bin cautiously wrote ten words with his left hand.
The emperor exhibited a hint of disappointment as the left-handed script didn¡¯t align with the handwriting in the anonymous letter.
Nheless, the emperor persisted in questioning Su Bin, inquiring, ¡°If an opportunity arises for you to remain in the capital, what would you choose?¡±
Su Bin repliedposedly, ¡°I will heed your will, Your Majesty. If you wish for me to stay, I shall remain. If you prefer my transfer, I shall ept the new appointment without protest.¡±
¡°Hahaha! Minister Su, you are indeed amendable minister! Your loyalty to me is evident, and I hold you in high regard!¡±
In truth, the emperor grappled with inner conflict. Although the transfer order for Su Bin was in his hands, this decision appeared irrevocable. As an emperor, it wasn¡¯t inconceivable for him to enforce Su Bin¡¯s continued presence in the capital. Yet, his paranoia nagged at him. He recognized Su Bin¡¯s talent and contemted retaining him to mold him into a trusted confidant. However, he harbored suspicions that Su Bin might have affiliations with the Public House. His skepticism stemmed from Su Bin¡¯s handling of the demotion to Shanglin Prefecture. He hadn¡¯t exhibited the anticipated despondency, nor did he seem disheartened or mournful. Another aspect fueled his uncertainty. Su Bin had consistently disyed unwavering determination. As a Young Talent, he had rejected the Old Marquis, disregarding his position as the Marquis Mansion¡¯s heir. Furthermore, the Crown Prince had endeavored to enlist him prior to his appointment as the Primus. Even after joining the Court of Judicial Review, both the Public House and the Crown Prince had sought to sway him a second time, offering wealth and glory, yet he remained impervious to temptation.
Nevertheless, Su Bin had appeared remarkably subservient in his recent interactions with the emperor, fueling the emperor¡¯s doubts. He remained at a crossroads, uncertain of whether to retain Su Bin or not..
Chapter 491 - 491: Set Off
Chapter 491 - 491: Set Off
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How could Su Bin remain oblivious to the emperor¡¯s thoughts?
It was precisely the emperor¡¯s suspicions that rendered Su Bin uncertain about standing by his side. In normal circumstances, being close to the emperor would have been the most effective and expedient means to undermine the Crown Prince¡¯s authority.
However, the emperor¡¯s doubts were a formidable obstacle. If the emperor believed that Su Bin had connections with the Public House, a mere verbal decree could seal his fate. Su Bin couldn¡¯t afford to take such a perilous risk.
There was simply no need to gamble recklessly. His alliance with the Third Prince remained tenuous, and the Third Princecked the strength to contest the Crown Prince¡¯s dominance. Furthermore, the General Manor was a perpetual source of discord and disturbance.
When all these factors were considered, Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen decided that a more cautious approach was warranted in their efforts to undermine the Crown Prince.
This decision stemmed from a thorough discussion between Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen. Qin Zhenzhen was privy to the plot of the book and recognized that the male lead, the Third Prince, had to endure a challenging and tumultuous journey before he could step into the spotlight as the hero of the story.
They had initially endeavored to alter the narrative and expedite the Third Prince¡¯s ascension to power. However, they came to realize that changing the main plot was a Herculean task. When Qin Zhenzhen had first arrived, modifying a subplot was rtively manageable. But now, as they approached themencement of the primary storyline, meddling with the established plot could jeopardize not only their lives but also the well-being of their respective Qin and Su families.
As a result, Qin Zhenzhen deemed it prudent to depart from the capital. Thankfully, she and Su Bin shared the same perspective, sparing her the need to invest time in convincing him.
Su Bin harbored no suspicion toward her; he merely recognized his wife¡¯s astute judgment and their mutual agreement could be considered an unspoken understanding.
Witnessing the emperor¡¯s hesitation, Su Bin craftily feigned anticipation, as if he hoped for the emperor to retain him.
Ultimately, he seeded in quelling the emperor¡¯s doubts. The emperor decided not to retain Su Bin for the time being, but he conveyed his intent to bestow a significant position upon him in the future.
Summoning Su Bin closer, the emperor spoke with sincerity. ¡°Minister Su, I shall be frank with you. I appointed you as the Primus on an exceptional basis, recognizing your exceptional talents.¡±
¡°I initially arranged for you to assume a role in the Court of Judicial Review with the intention that you would eventually lead the ministry. However, I failed to ount for your youth and rtiveck of experience.¡±
¡°Over half of the civil and military officials harbor reservations. Should I disregard their objections and persist in my course of action, it could bode ill for your future interactions with them.¡±
The emperor artfully framed the decision as if he had beenpelled by the influence of the Public House, leaving him with no alternative but to relocate Su Bin from the capital.
Su Bin assumed the guise ofprehension, remarking, ¡°I grasp Your
Majesty¡¯s intentions. I am genuinely grateful for your benevolence.¡±
The emperor leaned in to whisper, ¡°Hence, your transfer to Shanglin Prefecture IS merely a temporary measure. 1 snail soon nave you remstatea.¡¯
In response, Su Bin feigned surprise and gratitude, eximing, ¡°I am deeply appreciative of Your Majesty¡¯s graciousness and guidance!¡±
Upon exiting the pce, Su Bin promptly ordered their departure. Fortunately, all preparations had been made, and everyone was at the ready.
Inside the carriage, Qin Zhenzhen cast a smile in Su Bin¡¯s direction. ¡°Are you concerned that the emperor might have a change of heart?¡±
Su Bin nodded, his agreement evident. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely correct! During this visit to the capital, I¡¯vee to realize that the emperor is truly unpredictable!¡±
Su Bin had picked up the word ¡°crazy¡± from Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°The Emperor is profoundly distrustful. To him, it seems no one can be deemed reliable.. ¡°
Chapter 492 - 492: Lunatic
Chapter 492 - 492: Lunatic
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¡°First, the Emperor suspected that I had connections with the Third Prince and the General Manor. Then, he suspected ties to the Public House and the Crown Prince.¡±
¡°At this point, he may even entertain suspicions that I was dispatched by the remnants of the previous dynasty!¡±
¡°I must admit, it¡¯s truly a trying task being an emperor like him!¡±
If he had known of the extent of the emperor¡¯s erratic behavior, he would have allowed the Eighth Imperial Uncle to assume power and deal with the Crown Prince. However, if the Eighth Imperial Uncle had taken the reins at that juncture, they might have found themselves ensnared by the Jiang family¡¯s influence. Whether he and his wife would still be together in such circumstances was uncertain.
Thankfully, his astuteness enabled him to stage a convincing performance, ultimately securing the transfer order to leave the capital. From that point forward, they could relish a life of freedom and contentment with his wife.
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. ¡°His Majesty¡¯s paranoia is quite pronounced. Remarkably, you yed a pivotal role in this!¡±
Su Bin truly embodied the book¡¯s antagonist. Not only was he proficient in deception, but he was also cunning. He had persistently rebuffed the Crown Prince¡¯s attempts to recruit him, even when the Crown Prince had personally sought him out, capturing the interest of both civil and military officials.
Even the Crown Prince couldn¡¯t sway him, leading everyone to assume that Su Bin had affiliations with the General Manor. After all, it seemed that only the General Manor could effectively resist the influence of the Public House and the Crown Prince.
Later on, he sessfully garnered the emperor¡¯s favor, thereby prompting the belief that he was an emissary of the emperor himself. Consequently, even the General Manor failed to treat him well, and the Third Prince remained skeptical of Su Bin.
In short, Su Bin expertly maintained a veil of mystery around his true identity, causing everyone to specte.
Su Bin made no effort to dispute Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s observation and wore a self-satisfied expression.
Farewell, capital!
Although he had temporarily left the capital, he retained the Dragon Phoenix Hall, ensuring that he would remain well-informed about the events in the capital. He could also leverage the intelligence provided by the Dragon Phoenix Hall to ndestinely influence the course of events.
Su Bin recounted the conversation with the emperor to Qin Zhenzhen, saying, ¡°The emperor mentioned that he intends to transfer me back in the near future. When he spoke these words, his gaze remained fixed on me, scrutinizing my every reaction.¡±
¡°I had no choice but to feign delight and gratitude, even offering ttery.¡± ¡°In the end, my act sessfully dissuaded him from retaining me.¡±
Resting her head on Su Bin¡¯s shoulder, Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°His Majesty is also a pitiable figure.¡±
However, Su Bin held a different view.
¡°I don¡¯t pity the Emperor. I find him despicable!¡±
¡°To secure his throne, he disregarded his conscience and harmed his brothers through dealings with the Public House.¡±
¡°He knows well that he might forever remain under the Public House¡¯s control as Emperor, yet he couldn¡¯t resist the allure of power.¡±
¡°Despite numerous opportunities to assert his independence as Emperor, he opted for the safer route.¡±
¡°He dares not challenge the Public House, fearing their retaliation or even a threat to his life should he defy them.¡±
¡°On one hand, he tolerates the Public House¡¯s dominance, while on the other, he exploits his imperial privileges, leading a debauched lifestyle.¡±
Within the imperial harem, he weed a new cohort of concubines every three years and employed countless beautiful pce maids, yet it was still not enough. He even sought to infringe upon the privacy of his own wife!
Su Bin remained mindful of the emperor¡¯s previous attempt to im his wife..
Chapter 493 - 493: Quite Confident
Chapter 493 - 493: Quite Confident
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Su Bin and his entourage journeyed seamlessly from the capital to Shanglin Prefecture.
Once outside the capital¡¯s confines, Su Bin allowed himself to rx. He had no need to rush, and he concocted a story to maintain appearances for the outside world. He asserted that Qin Zhenzhen was experiencing difort due to pregnancy, necessitating a leisurely and stable carriage ride.
During the journey, they appeared to be enjoying themselves, and it took them eight days to finally reach their destination.
Throughout this period, Su Bin received secret missives from various quarters.
Upon learning of Su Bin¡¯s impending appointment as the governor of Shanglin Prefecture, the Dragon Phoenix Hall promptly dispatched its agents to the region. They set things in order, anticipating the arrival of the iing governor.
The Dragon Phoenix Hall also disseminated word among the local bandits. The message was clear: as long as they refrained from causing trouble, the new governor would not meddle with their affairs. However, if they dared to disrupt the peace in Shanglin Prefecture, they should expect swift and severe retribution.
These bandits, while not cowed by imperial officials, trembled at the mere mention of the Dragon Phoenix Hall¡¯s return to the world of martial arts.
Among the bandits, not all of them lived solitary lives. Many had families outside the mountains, wives, children, and loved ones to whom they secretly sent the spoils from their plunder. The Dragon Phoenix Hall specialized in uncovering individuals¡¯ personal secrets. With such a warning issued in such a tone, it was likely that their families outside the mountains were already under the Hall¡¯s watchful gaze.
For those daring to sow discord in Shanglin Prefecture, the repercussions were beyond imagination.
The bandits pledged to conduct themselves with utmost decorum during this period.
Furthermore, Su Bin was apanied by guards and covert operatives. Both he and Qin Zhenzhen possessedmendable martial skills and harbored no fear of bandits.
At the southern border army camp, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s fourth brother, Qin Silong, had been temporarily appointed as the leader of ten thousand households. Alongside an elderly deputy general, they had been dispatched with troops to quell an uprising.
Su Bin¡¯s second brother, Su Ping, joined Qin Silong on this mission, and he was elevated to the position of temporary chiliarch.
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen had astutely discerned the ulterior motives of the Public House. While the official promotion of Qin Silong and Su Ping appeared genuine on the surface, there was a covert scheme at y. The Public House intended to manipte the circumstances to ensure their defeat.
Ideally, they sought to eliminate them on the battlefield. Failing that, they would resort to framing tactics to dispose of them.
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen had conveyed all of this information in a confidential letter to Qin Silong, along with the assurance of support from agents of the Dragon Phoenix Hall to guarantee their safety.
As for Su Ping, they opted to keep him in the dark for the time being. Su Bin believed that his second brother¡¯s intelligence paled inparison to Qin Silong¡¯s, and sharing the n might inadvertently hinder its sess.
Thankfully, they held Qin Silong in high regard and regarded him as an authority figure. Since Qin Silong outranked Su Bin, he was likely to heed his orders. Dealing with the elderly deputy general, who had ties to the Public House, proved even more straightforward, as the rebels were likely to dispose of him first.
Subsequently, Qin Silong would have thetitude to adjust his course of action, as circumstances demanded. Qin Zhenzhen disyed considerable confidence in her fourth brother¡¯s abilities.
Qin Silong exuded a strong sense of self-assuredness. He was certain of his victory in the forting battle.
In his previous life, he had been actively involved in simr turmoil, gaining firsthand knowledge of the rebel leaders¡¯ hiding ces and theyout of their defenses. Back then, he had held the rank of a decurion, and there had been no ndestine conspiracies against their efforts..
Chapter 494 - 494: Broken Government Office
Chapter 494: Broken Government Office
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Su Bin finally reached Shanglin Prefecture, much to the delight of Governor Lin, who was overjoyed to have the new governor¡¯s arrival. It signaled his opportunity to bid farewell to Shanglin Prefecture.
For lunch, Governor Lin ordered four dishes and a soup from the local restaurant in the prefecture capital, making a show of weing Su Bin.
Fortunately, Su Bin had arranged for Qin Zhenzhen and herpanions to stay in a separate residence, bringing only Mr. Chen with him. Otherwise, this meager meal wouldn¡¯t have sufficed.
Governor Lin had no intention of expending too much money to ingratiate himself with Su Bin. He understood that those appointed to govern Shanglin Prefecture typically had no influential connections and often found themselves in this position due to some unfortunate circumstances.
Governor Lin himself had a simr background ¨C hailing from a modest family andcking powerful connections. He had managed to offend certain individuals in the bureaucracy, leading to his unwanted transfer to Shanglin Prefecture.
Not only was Shanglin Prefecture impoverished andcking in benefits, it was also gued by rampant banditry, which had left Governor Lin so terrified that he didn¡¯t dare to bring his family to apany him in his official duties. He lived in constant fear.
The memory of the previous governor¡¯s fate haunted him daily. It wasmon knowledge that the former governor had been killed by a bandit, supposedly due to his corrupt practices in an attempt to curry favor with higher-ranking officials.
The killer had even left a message on the wall, serving as a warning to the governor about the consequences of corruption. There were also rumors suggesting that the culprits were not mere bandits but skilled martial artists.
Regardless of who the culprits were, it was clear that Shanglin Prefecture was an unfortunate and perilous ce.
Governor Lin¡¯s impoverished situation left him bereft of any benefits, and while he did possess some loose change, he didn¡¯t dare to utilize it. His fear of being murdered had rendered him obedient, despite his yearning to earn a substantial ie.
He believed that he was fated to remain in Shanglin Prefecture for the rest of his life, as hecked influential connections and the means to win favor.
However, unexpected joy had fallen from the heavens in the form of a new governor¡¯s sudden transfer to rece him. Though he was relocated to another prefecture capital and still held the role of a prefecture governor, Governor Lin considered it a promotion.
Following their lunch, Governor Lin was eager to hand over everything to Su Bin and eagerly anticipated his departure from this forsaken ce the following morning.
Su Bin didn¡¯t create difficulties for him, understanding the urgency of the situation. Since he was already there, it was best to facilitate the handover as swiftly as possible.
Surveying the shabby government office, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but remark, ¡°This might be the most dpidated government office in the entire country.¡±
¡°It leaks when it rains, doesn¡¯t it?¡±
In other ces, even the county offices were far more dignified inparison.
Governor Linmiserated with Su Bin. ¡°To be honest, Governor Su, if it rains, only the courtroom remains dry. In other ces, there are varying degrees of leaks.¡±
¡°It¡¯s not that I¡¯m unwilling to repair it, but there¡¯s truly no funds avable.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve reported the issue to the Imperial Court, but they simply don¡¯t allocate the funds. I have no choice in the matter.
¡°I¡¯ve heard that the previous governor faced the same challenge. No matter how often he appealed to the Imperial Court, it was like casting a stone into the sea.¡±
¡°They¡¯re in the same predicament as me and can only asionally dip into their own pockets to hireborers for repairs within the court.¡±
¡°The constables¡¯ quarters are no different. They have to pool money from time to time and arrange for repairs out of their own funds.¡±
While Su Bin was already familiar with this state of affairs, he remained somewhat surprised. ¡°Governor Lin, are you suggesting that no one has ever funded repairs in the prison cells?¡±
Governor Lin nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right! As long as it rains, the cell will be a water prison..¡±
Chapter 495 - 495: Writing an Announcement
Chapter 495: Writing an Announcement
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After a swift transfer of responsibilities in the government office throughout the night, Governor Lin promptly rented a carriage and departed from
Shanglin Prefecture the following morning. His haste was evident; he appeared eager to leave the ce behind.
In reality, there wasn¡¯t much to transfer. Aside from numerous unsolved cold cases, Governor Lin also had his subordinates to ount for. He chose not to take with him the registration clerk, the safekeeping room archivist, and the governor¡¯s two assistants, as these individuals were all locals. There were also twelve constables who remained behind.
The presence of merely twelve constables within the entire government office was an enduring source of amazement. In a typical county office, there would be a significantlyrger number of constables, with some even exceeding two
dozen.
Governor Lin¡¯s exnation for this shortage was the paucity of public funds, preventing them from hiring more constables. When he first assumed his post, there had been only twelve constables, well below the standard. However, hecked the financial means to increase their numbers, as the higher authorities hadn¡¯t allocated sufficient funds.
In reality, numerous areas within the government office demanded financial resources. Throughout his year in office, Governor Lin had even used much of his own sry.
Su Bin scrutinized the individuals left behind by Governor Lin. He had conducted a prior investigation and was aware that these individuals were local bullies. While theycked the capacity to manage cases, they leveraged their identity as local ruffians to intimidate troublemakers who came to the government office.
However, when they encountered bandits, they would flee faster than rabbits. In most instances, their influence exceeded even that of Governor Lin.
If Governor Lin wished to establish himself within Shanglin Prefecture, he would need to rely on these individuals.
These individuals possessed some knowledge about Su Bin, and initially, they treated him with respect.
They were aware that Su Bin¡¯s wife, Qin Zhenzhen, was both a renowned divine doctor and a shrewd business genius. Her brand of seasonings had permeated throughout the nation, producing nearly all the seasonings consumed across the country.
In addition to her seasoning business, she had also established a chain of health centers, each of which thrived in the prosperous capitals. The daily ie pouring into their ounts was undoubtedly substantial, indicating that Su Bin was far fromcking in wealth.
Upon assuming office, Su Bin¡¯s initial priority was the immediate repair of the government office, a prospect that intrigued them.
Being in the service of such a wealthy individual, they naturally aimed to gain his favor respectfully.
Furthermore, they had received word that Su Bin¡¯s background was far from ordinary. He was not only the heir to the Marquis Mansion but had also earned the Emperor¡¯s favor. Most notably, his connection to the Dragon Phoenix Hall was particrly noteworthy.
Decades ago, the Dragon Phoenix Hall hadmanded immense respect, even from the underworld. Though it had suffered severe setbacks during those years, it had managed to make a resurgence during this period. Its influence now rivaled its former glory, as evidenced by its warnings to surrounding bandit hideouts.
In any case, their initial inclination was to temporarily set aside their unruly natures and exhibit respect towards the new governor. If he provedpetent, they might anticipate leading a morefortable life under his leadership.
Su Bin¡¯s first directive, however, was not to repair the Drifting Rain Yamen, but to have them post notices to recruit twelve constables.
¡°Wang Erma, your task today is to prepare twenty-four announcements,¡± he addressed a clerk by the name of Wang Erma, also known as ¡°Poxed Face Wang, ¡± the sole Cultivated Talent within the government office.
The others had only received a few years of education and hadn¡¯t even achieved the status of Cultivated Talent.
Su Bin handed a piece of paper to Poxed Face Wang, who confidently responded, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Governor.. I promise toplete the task!¡±
Chapter 496 - 496: Assigning a Mission
Chapter 496: Assigning a Mission
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Poxed Face Wang nced at the densely packed announcements and immediately felt a headache. He couldn¡¯tprehend why a recruitment announcement for constables had so many words.
Upon closer inspection, he realized that there were actually two announcements written on the paper. The first announcement outlined the duties of the new governor and had Mr. Chen condense the numerous Imperial Court rules into ten simplified and easily understandable ones. However, this section alone took up half of the paper.
The second announcement detailed the recruitment of twelve constables and the apanying rules and standards for the recruitment process.
Poxed Face Wang asked, ¡°May I inquire, Governor, should both of these announcements bebined into one?¡±
Su Bin, appearing easygoing, replied, ¡°If you find it more convenient to merge them into one announcement, go ahead. If you believe it¡¯s better to keep them separate, then write them as such.¡±
Poxed Face Wang was delighted and responded, ¡°Governor, I believe it¡¯s more suitable to write them as two separate announcements.¡±
This decision would effectively halve his workload.
Su Bin nodded and said, ¡°Very well, we¡¯ll go with your suggestion.¡±
Poxed Face Wang was ted once more. It seemed that the new governor understood their reputation as troublesome local bullies and was highly amodating. The others shared his sentiment and thought that their future days might not be as challenging as they had initially feared. It appeared that they wouldn¡¯t be under the governor¡¯s thumb; in fact, it might be the opposite the governor might have to heed their wishes.
Su Bin then assigned a task to the constables.
¡°Liu Dazhuang, once Wang Ermapletes writing the announcements, you¡¯ll be responsible for posting them on the main streets of the prefecture capital, with the assistance of your fellow constables.¡±
Liu Dazhuang, the leader of the twelve constables and the pavilion¡¯s head, promptly responded in a loud voice, ¡°Yes, Governor! You can trust me; I¡¯ll ensure the task ispleted.¡±
¡°Good!¡± Su Bin expressed satisfaction, stressing, ¡°Both of today¡¯s tasks need to be finished by the end of the day.¡±
¡°If you fail toplete your tasks, you will face a penalty of a deduction equivalent to half of your monthly sry.¡±
This deration startled the constables, their expressions turning somewhat grim.
It was a rare urrence for a governor to casually deduct their sries, as their earnings were already meager.
Nevertheless, the new governor¡¯s assigned tasks were not particrly challenging. Twenty-four notices had to be posted by the twelve constables, averaging just two each. This could be easily aplished in one day.
Gradually, the constables¡¯ expressions brightened, relieved that the tasks were reasonable.
Su Bin borated further, ¡°There will be consequences for upleted tasks, but equally, rewards await those who fulfill their duties. Punishment and reward are in bnce.¡±
¡°To rify, failing toplete the tasks will result in a half-month¡¯s sry deduction, while sess will yield a half-month¡¯s sry as a reward.¡±
Upon hearing this, the constables were overjoyed. ¡°Is what you¡¯re saying true, Governor?¡±
Su Bin affirmed, ¡°Absolutely! It depends on whether you have the capability to im your reward.¡±
¡°We promise!¡±
The constables conveyed theirmitment loudly and then collectively looked towards Poxed Face Wang.
The dilemma now was whether Poxed Face Wang could guarantee the swift transcription of the announcements.
Poxed Face Wang inspected the announcement paper given by Su Bin once more. He noted that the first announcement detailing rules and regtions contained more text, demanding a longer time for transcription. In contrast, the second announcement, with fewer words, could be transcribed more quickly.
Poxed Face Wang had an idea and discussed it with Su Bin.
¡°Governor, I believe that most of the people in the prefectural city are already aware of the rules and regtions issued by the imperial court. Therefore, we can take our time with that announcement. On the other hand, this announcement for recruiting constables is more pressing. Therefore, I suggest we copy the constable recruitment announcement first.. What do you think?¡±
Chapter 497 - 497: Accumulating Silver
Chapter 497: umting Silver
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Su Bin smiled without uttering a word.
Mr. Chen recognized that it was his cue to step in, and he gestured with his hand. ¡°It appears there might be some confusion regarding the governor¡¯s instructions.¡±
Poxed Face Wang¡¯s expression turned fierce as he inquired, ¡°Mr. Chen, could you please rify what I¡¯ve misunderstood?¡±
¡°The governor¡¯s message was quite straightforward: You only need to replicate 24 announcements today,¡± Mr. Chen replied calmly.
Poxed Face Wang grew increasingly agitated, his tone taking on a threatening edge. His true deceitful nature became evident as he deliberately feigned ignorance of Mr. Chen¡¯s exnation.
He intended to employ the same tactic he had used with the previous governor to pressure Su Bin and Mr. Chen into making concessions, but they were not so easily manipted.
Mr. Chen spoke slowly, ¡°The governor¡¯s statement was crystal clear. Poxed
Face Wang, did you not hear it urately? Allow me to reiterate it for you.¡±
¡°The governor¡¯s intent was that if you copy both announcements on a single sheet of paper, you only need to produce 24 copies. However, if you choose to separate the two announcements and copy them individually, you¡¯ll be required to produce 48 copies.¡±
¡°Isn¡¯t this a straightforward and logical directive?¡±
Mr. Chen¡¯s words took on a reprimanding tone naturally.
Poxed Face Wang, ustomed to asserting his dominance, was about to lose his temper when two others intervened, firmly pressing down on his shoulders.
¡°Brother Wang, there¡¯s no need to get upset. Anger won¡¯t help us resolve this issue. Let¡¯s approach the governor and discuss the matter amicably.¡±
What was the most valuable thing in the world? Undoubtedly, it was money!
For the sake of this wealth, these individuals were absolutely unwilling to see Poxed Face Wang quarrel with the governor.
If Poxed Face Wang failed toplete his task, wouldn¡¯t the money promised by the governor vanish into thin air?
Nevertheless, these individuals still wished to support Poxed Face Wang. They aimed to help him negotiate with Su Bin andpose just one announcement. By doing so, Poxed Face Wang could swiftly aplish the day¡¯s mission, enabling all of them to fulfill their duties.
They coborated with Poxed Face Wang to strategize and engage in discussions with Su Bin.
¡°Governor Su, it¡¯s worth noting that both announcements are squeezed onto a single sheet of paper. It¡¯s quite cramped.¡±
¡°That¡¯s correct. The paper is overcrowded, necessitating smaller text. If the text bes too small and is posted high on the wall, it might go unnoticed by those with poor vision. Wouldn¡¯t that render our efforts pointless?¡± ¡°Thus, Poxed Face Wang¡¯s interpretation is not unfounded. Let¡¯s craft one announcement today.¡±
¡°We can save the other announcement for tomorrow.¡±
¡°After all, there are very few cases reported in this region. There¡¯s hardly any work to be done.¡±
¡°Governor Su, please don¡¯t doubt our words. Despite the rumors of chaos in Shanglin Prefecture, the reality is quite different. Just take a look for yourself¡ª there hasn¡¯t been a single report made here! Even if you inspect the holding cells, you¡¯ll find that few people havemitted crimes.¡±
Su Bin chuckled. ¡°Your arguments do seem reasonable.¡±
¡°Considering how idle everyone appears to be, should we perhaps consider reducing your sries by half?¡±
How could he even contemte such an idea?
The objections were unanimous. ¡°Are you kidding? Our sries are already meager. This is absolutely not eptable!¡±
¡°We have elderly and young family members relying on this money for support!¡±
Su Bin observed their expressions. ¡°I don¡¯t mind reducing my own sry. I¡¯ll even forfeit half of it. Small amounts can add up over time. Half a year from now, it will amount to a substantial sum.¡±
¡°Mr. Chen, could you calcte the potential savings over six months?¡±
Mr. Chen nodded and took a moment to perform the calction. ¡°There are 12 bailiffs. Each one receives four taels of silver per month, except for Constable Liu, who gets six taels. That means you can save 27 taels per month..¡±
Chapter 498 - 498: Request
Chapter 498 - 498: Request
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¡°The other four individuals earn six taels each month, resulting in a savings of twelve taels monthly.¡±
¡°Governor Su, your potential savings amount to ten taels of silver every month.¡±
¡°Governor, when we all contribute, we can umte a total of 282 taels of silver in six months.¡±
Su Bin smiled and remarked, ¡°Honestly, I hadn¡¯t expected it to add up to such a significant sum when I did the calctions. It¡¯s quite substantial.¡±
¡°This suggestion isn¡¯t all that bad. How about this? I¡¯ll provide you with 282 taels of silver, and let¡¯s round it up to 300 taels of silver. Can you use that to fix the leak?¡±
The entire group objected vehemently. ¡°No!¡±
Wang Canzi added with a touch of sarcasm, ¡°I¡¯ve heard that you¡¯re quite wealthy. 300 taels of silver is a mere drop in the bucket for you!¡±
¡°Why must you make things challenging for folks like us who have so little?¡±
This time, Su Bin burst intoughter. ¡°You¡¯re absolutely right. My family has a substantial wealth, and I¡¯m more than willing to put it to good use!¡±
Their expressions brightened, and they apuded in appreciation.
¡°So Governor Su is just teasing us!¡±
¡°I knew it. Governor Su¡¯s family is exceptionally affluent. How could they possibly make lite hard tor us, who have so little!¡±
Mr. Chen, maintaining a serious demeanor, interjected, ¡°It¡¯s a blessing for all of us to serve such a wealthy and generous governor. However, we should also show some respect.¡±
Quickly, they tried to rify.
¡°Mr. Chen, you¡¯ve misunderstood. When did we fail to show Governor Su respect?¡±
Internally, they had already discussed this matter. It was Governor Su¡¯s first day in office, and as his subordinates, they felt it was important to uphold protocol. In truth, they had no intention of making things difficult for Governor Su.
Poxed Face Wang spoke up, ¡°Mr. Chen, please do point out where we may have failed in showing respect to Governor Su. We are open to correction.¡±
Mr. Chen didn¡¯t mince words and addressed them directly, ¡°Our governor has just stated that if you sessfullyplete this task, your monthly sry will be increased by half. This additional half of your sry is, in fact, a reward from the governor himself.¡±
¡°However, some of you have been making various excuses. If you decline to carry out this task, it implies that you are not willing to give the governor the respect he deserves.¡±
¡°Let it be known that Governor Su confided in me privately, revealing that if you manage toplete this mission on the first day, apart from the sry increase, there will be numerous future rewards, all funded by Governor Su personally.¡±
Everyone grasped the significance of Mr. Chen¡¯s words.
Motivated by the prospect of financial gain, they approached Poxed Face Wang, imploring him toply with the governor¡¯s request and copy both announcements. Some even offered to assist with ink preparation.
¡°Poxed Face Wang, please agree to the governor¡¯s request and replicate both announcements. I can help you grind the ink.¡±
¡°Absolutely, I can lend a hand. My penmanship is on par with yours.¡±
The other three individuals who received six taels of silver each month had some educational background and felt confident in their ability to transcribe the announcement.
Poxed Face Wang considered the proposal and eventually relented. With five to six people assisting in the copying process and others preparing ink, each person only had to write seven to eight pieces. This mission turned out to be quite manageable.
Satisfied, Su Bin left the government office and returned to his residence in Shanglin Prefecture to spend time with his wife.
Meanwhile, Mr. Chen remained to supervise Poxed Face Wang and the others.
¡°The governor¡¯s request is to transcribe the announcement.¡±
¡°Firstly, ensure that the handwriting is legible, clear, and proper.¡±
¡°Secondly, it¡¯s imperative that you transcribe every word exactly as it appears on the governor¡¯s provided paper. No errors or alterations are eptable.¡± ¡°Thirdly, in the event of any revisions or typographical errors, the document in question will be deemed invalid, and you must produce a new one.
Furthermore, you are responsible for disposing of the invalidated document..¡±
Chapter 499 - 499: Apologize
Chapter 499 - 499: Apologize
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As soon as Mr. Chen finished speaking, those who were poised to transcribe the announcement set their pens down. But before any protests could be voiced, Mr. Chen addressed them once more.
¡°Do not misconstrue Governor Su¡¯s strictness. He has stated that there will be rewards along with penalties.¡±
¡°In a while, we will assess for the fastest and most exquisite handwriting. The governor has promised a two-tael silver reward for the standout performer.¡±
Upon hearing Mr. Chen¡¯s announcement, the individuals quickly resumed their writing, their faces alight with anticipation.
¡°Is it for real? Truly?¡±
Two taels of silver!
That could purchase 200 catties of rice!
¡°It¡¯s genuine! This is Governor Su¡¯s first day in office. He wouldn¡¯t deceive us.¡±
With Mr. Chen¡¯s assurance, the participants enthusiasticallymenced the transcription process. Poxed Face Wang, in particr, felt a surge of excitement.
As a government office clerk, he possessed a certain level of skill and was confident in outperforming the others. The prospect of a two-tael silver reward spurred his determination.
If he sessfullypleted the governor¡¯s task today, he would earn an additional five taels of silver for the month. For someone of modest means like Poxed Face Wang, this was a substantial sum.
Although Poxed Face Wang¡¯s typical duties involved transcription and writing, for those less ustomed to writing, duplicating announcements was a strenuous task. The critical factory in producing handwriting that was clear, neat, and free of corrections.
There could not be any mistakes, and the font could not be of different sizes. Any paper wastage would result in a deduction from their earnings. In order to preserve their money and secure the coveted two-tael silver reward, everyone approached the task with unwavering seriousness.
Surprisingly, their dedication led to an error-free transcription, with none of them making any mistakes or edits.
Mr. Chen strolled among them with his hands sped behind his back, observing their progress. These individuals possessed a degree ofpetency that enabled them to hold positions within the government office. Although their handwriting might not have been exceptionally beautiful, it was certainly passable.
Mr. Chen was generous with hismendations. ¡°I must admit, I didn¡¯t anticipate your handwriting being this clear. At the very least, it¡¯s not crooked.
You can read it and continue copying.¡±
¡°I¡¯vee to realize that you are still quite a united group. Governor Su must be pleased after reviewing these announcements.¡±
¡°If Governor Su is in a good mood, perhaps he¡¯ll treat us to a fine dinner at a restaurant tonight.¡±
Upon hearing Mr. Chen¡¯s words, the group practically salivated at the prospect.
The more they copied, the more focused they became. However, uponpleting one transcription, they noticed that Poxed Face Wang was grinning.
¡°Look at your handwriting. It¡¯s worlds apart from mine!¡±
Poxed Face Wang, as the secretary and clerk of the government office, indeed possessed considerable skills. He wrote swiftly and had a dignified handwriting style. Inparison, there was a notable discrepancy in the quality of the words penned by the others. While Poxed Face Wang¡¯s assessment might have been somewhat exaggerated, it was not entirely unjustified.
Witnessing Poxed Face Wang¡¯s condescending attitude and his mockery of their efforts, the group¡¯s expressions darkened.
¡°Poxed Face Wang, that¡¯s rather ungrateful of you! We assisted you with the transcription, yet you show us no appreciation. How dare you ridicule us?¡± ¡°If youugh again, I swear, I won¡¯t assist with your transcription! Let¡¯s see how you can secure that two-tael silver reward on your own!¡±
Poxed Face Wang soon realized that he had crossed the line, and he promptly ceased his mockery. He offered a sincere apology, saying, ¡°I apologize, everyone. I made a mistake earlier, and I¡¯m sorry to each one of you.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s coborate and work together to transcribe these 48 announcements. In doing so, we can all earn the half-month sry reward together..¡±
Chapter 500 - 500: Not For Nothing
Chapter 500 - 500: Not For Nothing
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The group responded with sneers and cynicism. ¡°Your kind words won¡¯t change anything now!¡±
¡°We¡¯ve all put in the effort to assist you in transcribing the announcements, and soon we¡¯ll have to help post them as well. Yet, our remuneration is uneven.
Is that fair?¡±
Poxed Face Wang understood their concerns and quickly added, ¡°My friends, please assist me. Once I¡¯ve earned the two taels of silver, I¡¯ll treat you to a meal.¡±
One of them was more open to negotiation. ¡°That¡¯s better.¡±
However, there were others who remained skeptical. ¡°He¡¯s offering to treat us to a meal, but what kind of meal do you think he has in mind?¡±
¡°You still don¡¯t know him. He¡¯s rather miserly. I can tell.¡±
¡°He mentioned treating us to a meal. Maybe it¡¯s one of those street vendors with simple food and vegetables. A bowl of rice per person might only cost around ten copper coins.¡±
The rest of the group concurred. ¡°True, we can¡¯t be sure what he means.¡± ¡°Poxed Face Wang, tell us the details of this meal.¡±
Poxed Face Wang reluctantly agreed. ¡°How about I treat everyone to a meal at Sanzhen Restaurant?¡±
Yet, some remained persistent. ¡°Fine, a meal at Sanzhen Restaurant is alright, but what¡¯s your budget for this meal?¡±
¡°Are you willing to spend half a tael of silver or a full tael of silver?¡±
Poxed Face Wang, faced with the colleagues who had set down their pens, gritted his teeth as he consented. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I guarantee that this meal will be worth a full tael of silver. I promise you¡¯ll eat to your heart¡¯s content.¡±
However, someone put forward a suggestion, saying, ¡°In my opinion, we should just divide it equally among us!¡±
¡°We have 16 people on our side. Including Governor Su and Mr. Chen, we have 18 people in total. It shouldn¡¯t be too much for 18 people to share two taels of silver, right?¡±
The others quickly chimed in, ¡°Yes, yes, yes! Let¡¯s divide the two taels of silver among all of us. After all, it¡¯s an additional reward, and without our assistance, you wouldn¡¯t be able to earn it on your own.¡±
But Poxed Face Wang couldn¡¯t agree to this proposal.
He became visibly agitated, and his face and neck turned red. ¡°This is going too far!¡±
¡°Do you know why I can write so quickly and neatly?¡±
¡°It¡¯s because I¡¯ve been practicing calligraphy since I was three years old!¡±
¡°Until I was 23 years old, I got married and had children. But before that, I never stopped practicing calligraphy.¡±
Someone chuckled, saying, ¡°Poxed Face Wang, you¡¯re exaggerating!¡±
¡°You¡¯ve been practicing calligraphy for 20 years, and you still write every day without a break. Aren¡¯t you embarrassed?¡±
¡°Take a look at the announcement written by Mr. Chen. Why don¡¯t youpete with him?¡±
Poxed Face Wang stood his ground, saying, ¡°That¡¯s my business! I have no intention ofpeting with Mr. Chen.¡±
¡°Who is Mr. Chen? He¡¯s Governor Su¡¯s assistant! How can hepare to us?¡±
¡°But today, I want to make it clear that the reason my handwriting is faster and better than yours is because I practiced calligraphy for twenty years. I also want to emphasize that it¡¯s through hard work and dedication that one reaps rewards. Therefore, I didn¡¯t earn these two taels of silver for nothing!¡±
However, none of his colleagues were swayed by Poxed Face Wang¡¯s arguments.
¡°Don¡¯t lecture us with your highfalutin logic. There¡¯s only one issue at hand you need all of our assistance to secure that reward. We¡¯re simply asking you to share the reward and treat us to a meal. It¡¯s not too much to ask.¡±
Poxed Face Wang, growing increasingly frustrated, retorted, ¡°Fine then.. Since no one is willing to help and some are even willing to forgo the half-month¡¯s sry, I won¡¯t continue the transcription!¡±
Chapter 501 - 501: Petty
Chapter 501 - 501: Petty
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Having voiced his frustrations, Poxed Face Wang angrily set down his pen.
He felt he was being unfairly treated. He hadn¡¯t even received the two-tael silver reward yet, and his colleagues were already scheming to divvy it up until he had nothing left.
What aggravated him the most was that obtaining the two taels of silver reward wasn¡¯t a simple task.
The group exchanged nces, and the prospect of losing out on the half-month¡¯s sry promised by Governor Su left them somewhat disgruntled. It felt as though someone had pilfered money from their pockets.
Nheless, none of them were willing to pick up their pens and continue transcribing. No one wanted to be the first topromise.
Liu Dazhuang, a constable who had practiced martial arts since a young age, was proficient in reading butcked the ability to transcribe the announcement. He took the initiative to grind ink, a task sufficient for copying
the 48 announcements. Being preupied with his work, he hadn¡¯t been
involved in themotion earlier.
Despite his detachment, he understood the current predicament. Nobody was willing to proceed with the transcription, yet no one was willing to depart either. They all harbored a desire toplete the task, but theycked a mediator.
Liu Dazhuang turned to Mr. Chen, who was observing the situation, and said,
¡°Mr. Chen, could you do me a favor?¡±
Mr. Chen smiled and replied, ¡°I believe your words may carry more weight than mine. Why don¡¯t you give it a try first?¡±
Among this group of individuals, Liu Dazhuang held more authority. It was a straightforward matter: he had eleven subordinates who were obliged to follow his lead.
Constable Liu expressed his viewpoint confidently, saying, ¡°Listen up, everyone. We should prioritizepleting the mission first to earn the reward. Once we have the reward in hand, we can discuss how to divide and utilize it.¡±
¡°Time is limited, and I don¡¯t want to engage in individual negotiations because it would be time-consuming. If we don¡¯t begin now, we risk losing 99% of the reward.¡±
¡°Doesn¡¯t that make sense?¡±
Old Li, who had been in the archive room, nodded in agreement. ¡°Constable Liu has a point. We should focus onpleting the task and securing the reward before discussing the details of our meal.¡±
With that, Old Li resumed copying the announcement.
However, the rest of the group remained reluctant, their frustration still lingering.
Liu Dazhuang took Poxed Face Wang aside.
¡°Poxed Face Wang, why are you being so stubborn? Do you want outsiders to ridicule us?¡±
¡°In the past, aside from the governor, you and I held the second-highest positions in this government office. At times, even the governor would heed our advice.¡±
¡°One of us is a schr, and the other is a martial artist. With the two of us here, we¡¯ve usually kept things under control.¡±
¡°Use your head and think it through. Why did Governor Su offer these two taels of silver as a reward?¡±
Poxed Face Wang remained silent for a moment. ¡°Are you suggesting that the governor deliberately used these two taels of silver to test us?¡±
Liu Dazhuang nodded. ¡°Precisely.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve heard that Governor Su has brought over 20 guards with him. You and I may be skilled in literature and martial arts, but he has more people and higher-quality personnel than our government office.¡±
¡°If we squabble over two taels of silver and undermine our unity, have you considered what lies ahead for us?¡±
Poxed Face Wang was taken aback. ¡°Are you implying that Governor Su might rece us?¡±
Liu Dazhuang nodded again. ¡°It¡¯s not just a possibility, it¡¯s a certainty!¡±
¡°But he won¡¯t rece all of us at once. He¡¯ll dismantle us one by one and introduce changes one by one.¡±
¡°Why? Because we couldn¡¯t evenplete the governor¡¯s task on the very first day..¡±
Chapter 502 - 502: This Is a Good Plan
Chapter 502 - 502: This Is a Good n
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Have you noticed that Mr. Chen is watching us closely while you guys argue? He must be contemting who to rece first.¡± Poxed Face Wang was further taken aback.
¡°So, what¡¯s the n?¡±
¡°What else can we do? There¡¯s only one way, and that¡¯s for all of us to stand together like we used to and endure together.¡±
Poxed Face Wang had an epiphany.
¡°I understand what we should do now.¡±
¡°I¡¯m willing to contribute the entire two-tael silver reward and treat everyone to a hearty meal. We can unite and ensure none of us get reced.¡±
Liu Dazhuang grinned with delight. ¡°Exactly. As long as we remain united, they won¡¯t be able to rece any of us.¡±
¡°I believe that if we perform our duties well, Governor Su won¡¯t even consider recing us. After all, it¡¯s not easy to find reliable recements.¡±
¡°Moreover, I think Governor Su is better than any previous governor. We should cherish this opportunity. If we stay loyal to him, we might enjoy some privileges in the future.¡±
¡°For one, hees from a wealthy family, and more importantly, he¡¯s willing to invest.¡±
¡°Secondly, he has extensive connections. If he proves himself capable, even bandits will listen to him. Have you noticed that there¡¯s been peace in the prefecture capital thesest few days? There haven¡¯t been any robberies, killings, or even disputes.¡±
¡°Thirdly, take a good look at Mr. Chen. He¡¯s not an ordinary person.¡±
¡°He¡¯s not just an ordinary person, yet he¡¯s chosen to serve under Governor Su. It¡¯s evident that Governor Su is no ordinary leader.¡±
Poxed Face Wang nodded vigorously.
¡°Brother Liu, why do I feel that you, a martial artist, are even wiser than me, a schr! ¡±
Liu Dazhuang chuckled at the ttery. ¡°Brother Wang, you¡¯re too kind!¡±
Poxed Face Wang returned to the main hall and announced loudly, ¡°Brothers, let¡¯s work together toplete today¡¯s task. If I manage to secure the two-tael silver reward, I¡¯ll treat you all to a splendid meal at Shanzhen Restaurant. Even if the cost exceeds two taels of silver, I can handle it.¡¯
The others were taken aback. ¡°Poxed Face Wang, there are so many people here, don¡¯t make empty boasts.¡±
Poxed Face Wang patted his chest and assured them, ¡°I can ask Constable Liu to vouch for me. I mean every word. Please assist us promptly.¡±
Liu Dazhuang nodded and confirmed, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, everyone. Thismitment is genuine. If Poxed Face Wang fails to keep his word, I¡¯ll treat you all to a meal. You trust me, don¡¯t you?¡±
Liu Dazhuang then had a brief conversation with the others, outlining what he had discussed with Poxed Face Wang.
Upon hearing this, the group nodded and even appeared somewhat sheepish.
¡°I trust him!¡±
¡°Absolutely!¡±
¡°Constable Liu¡¯s words are much more reliable than Wang Ermazi¡¯s!¡±
Laughter filled the room as they promptly resumed their transcription.
Mr. Chen observed this group of seemingly unruly individuals working together. It seemed that even these ruffians and rogues could exhibit teamwork. He smiled knowingly.
Governor Su¡¯s approach was indeed quite clever.
This situation allowed him to discern who was more generous, who was less generous, who was morepetent, and who was less capable.
Furthermore, it helped him identify individuals who could be retained for future tasks and those who might need to be reced.
He was already forming a n.
After these individuals sessfullypleted their task, he would report this situation to the governor..
Chapter 503 - 503: Reception Banquet
Chapter 503 - 503: Reception Banquet
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Under Mr. Chen¡¯s supervision, Poxed Face Wang and the others managed toplete the transcription of all 48 announcements before nightfall.
Throughout the task, they had identally wasted eight sheets of paper, each costing five copper coins. The group collectively decided to deduct this amount from Poxed Face Wang¡¯s two-tael silver reward.
As they finished transcribing thest announcement, the first set of announcements had already been posted by the bailiffs, seemingly synchronized with Su Bin¡¯s arrival.
In front of everyone, Mr. Chen whispered something to Su Bin. While the exact words were inaudible to Poxed Face Wang and his colleagues, they could deduce that Mr. Chen was likely briefing Governor Su on how they sessfullypleted the task.
Initially, they had quarreled among themselves, but eventually, they had worked together.
Upon hearing Mr. Chen¡¯s report, a grin spread across Su Bin¡¯s face.
¡°Excellent work. You¡¯vepleted the mission with quality on the very first day. It¡¯s deserving of a reward.¡±
¡°I hereby dere that you will all receive an additional half of this month¡¯s sry.¡±
Though they had yet to see the actual money, the smiles on Wang Canzi and the others¡¯ faces beamed when they heard the governor¡¯s pledge.
¡°Thank you, Governor Sul¡±
The excitement and anticipation on their faces now were in stark contrast to how Su Bin had found them earlier in the day.
Initially, they seemed like a disorganized group, but now, as he looked at them, he could see they were not without their merits.
¡°Originally, transcribing 48 announcements alone would have been quite a challenge, but luckily, you came together and helped one another toplete this mission. This spirit of unity is trulymendable.¡±
¡°I hope that you will continue to excel in the future.¡±
¡°As long as Shanglin Prefecture is administered effectively, and the people can enjoy peace and prosperity, I will naturally petition the Imperial Court to allocate more funds and enhance the standard of living for everyone.¡±
¡°Furthermore, as long as you perform well and coborate with me to govern Shanglin Prefecture efficiently, I will be more than willing to reward you from my personal resources.¡±
Su Bin began bymending them and then inquired, ¡°Do you have the confidence to assist me in managing Shanglin Prefecture?¡±
Blinded by the allure of Su Bin¡¯s rewards, these men responded in unison, ¡°We are confident!¡±
Su Bin appeared content, and he promptly fulfilled hismitment. He instructed Mr. Chen to provide two taels of silver to Poxed Face Wang.
¡°Your calligraphy is truly impressive. Your dedication to practice is evident. These two taels of silver are a well-deserved reward.
Poxed Face Wang was ted. ¡°Thank you for your praise, Governor Sul¡±
¡°Thank you for your reward, Governor Su!¡±
Following a brief discussion, the others pushed Poxed Face Wang and Liu Dazhuang forward, instructing them to invite Governor Su and Mr. Chen for a meal.
Liu Dazhuang nudged Poxed Face Wang once more and whispered, ¡°The reward is yours, so you should be the one to invite us.¡±
Poxed Face Wang approached Su Bin and bowed, saying, ¡°I would like to invite
Governor Su and Mr. Chen to join us for a meal. Is that eptable?¡±
Su Bin appeared slightly surprised. ¡°You¡¯re treating?¡±
Poxed Face Wang nodded. ¡°Indeed! It was all thanks to ourrades¡¯ assistance that I received a two-tael silver reward. We¡¯ve already discussed it, and we¡¯ve reserved a private room at Sanzhen Restaurant. Everyone is invited to join us for a meal.¡±
¡°With your money. Treat it as a wee banquet for you..¡±
Chapter 504 - 504: Rich Man
Chapter 504: Rich Man
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin readily agreed to join everyone for dinner.
Sanzhen Restaurant, owned by the leader of the bandits in Yangzi Lair, offered reasonably priced meals, with a private room avable for just two taels of silver.
As 18 people gathered around arge round table, the atmosphere was a bit crowded but lively.
Realizing that two taels of silver wouldn¡¯t be sufficient for a satisfying meal, Poxed Face Wang and hispanions opted for more economical dishes.
Su Bin exchanged a nce with Mr. Chen, conveying a silent message.
Understanding the unspoken request, Mr. Chen produced a half-catty silver ingot.
¡°Governor Su suggests we indulge in a morevish meal tonight. There will be an abundance of meat, vegetables, and wine. However, there¡¯s one condition let¡¯s all refrain from getting too drunk. We have work to do tomorrow.¡±
The sight of the hefty half-catty silver ingot brightened everyone¡¯s eyes.
Indeed, Governor Su was generous, ensuring that those in his service were well-fed.
As the group enjoyed their meal heartily, they maintained self-control. Despite being seasoned drinkers, none of them allowed themselves to be intoxicated.
No one wanted to leave a negative impression on the new governor.
The next day, the streets of Shanglin Prefecture were packed with people gathered around the public announcements.
In truth, these notices had been posted the day before, and some citizens had already perused them. The rules and regtions outlined in the announcements were well-known to most, as they were required to memorize them under the penalty of fines and imprisonment for any vitions. Prison life, characterized by meager meals and mandatory manualbor, served as a deterrent.
However, what truly caught the public¡¯s attention was the announcement about the recruitment of twelve constables.
The allurey in the enticing benefits: a base sry of four taels of silver per month, with the potential for an additional two taels as a monthly reward for exemry performance. Exceptional contributions could even lead to extra rewards. The eligibility criteria were lenient, requiring only good health and the absence of undesirable habits. Young men aged 18 to 23, whether married or unmarried, were wee, and there was no need to pay a deposit.
Constables enjoyed public meals, and their treatment was so favorable that even bandits had to tolerate them when they wore the constable¡¯s uniform. The prospect of such advantageous conditions piqued widespread interest, prompting more people to gather and discuss the opportunity.
¡°Is this announcement genuine or a hoax?¡±
¡°He¡¯s already filled half the constable positions in an instant. Not only does he earn a substantial monthly ie, but even the cost of acquiring constable attire is significant. I heard Governor Su is personally covering these expenses.¡±
¡°You¡¯re joking. The announcement has been posted; how can it be fake?¡± ¡°Did you not hear? The new governores from a wealthy family.¡± ¡°Exactly! The new governor is a wealthy man!¡±
Many were aware of the affluence within Su Bin¡¯s family. Adding to the ongoing discussions, an even greater number of individuals became acquainted with this fact.
¡°The newly appointed governor truly stands out. Historically, governors would contemte ways to cut costs upon their arrival. However, Governor Su, on his very first day, is hiring more than half of the constables.¡±
¡°This sets Governor Su apart from his predecessors. I¡¯ve heard rumors about the substantial wealth in Governor Su¡¯s family. Notably, his wife possesses remarkable financial acumen.
¡°The Zhenzhen seasoning wemonly enjoy is crafted by his wife, who is reputed to incorporate an immortal herb into the mix. The revenue generated from this alone is said to be immeasurable on a daily basis..¡±
Chapter 505 - 505: Assessment
Chapter 505: Assessment
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°It¡¯s not our concern whether they¡¯re wealthy or not. Our hope is that the new Governor Su can make a positive impact for us!¡±
¡°If we can deter those troublemakers in the mountains and prevent them from robbing without cause, it¡¯ll be a cause for celebration!¡±
Despite the recent tranquility in the city over the past month or so, with no sign of the mountain bandits causing trouble, uncertainty lingered as to whether it was a temporary respite.
¡°I believe the new governor must have a n. Why else would he be recruiting half of the constables?¡±
¡°We¡¯ll wait and see what Governor Su can aplish for us in the future. There¡¯s no use dwelling on it here. The most practical approach is to head home quickly and have your son register at the government office.¡±
¡°If we can enlist as constables, we¡¯ll be able to contribute to everyone¡¯s well-being!¡±
¡°You make a good point. I¡¯ll sign up immediately.¡±
¡°Oh, I¡¯ll rush home as well and have my son register!¡±
¡°If we manage to secure the position, let¡¯s not think about anything else. Four taels of silver a month is much better than toiling in the fields!¡±
Consequently, all eligible young men hurried to the government office, resulting in a lengthy queue.
Given the significance of constable recruitment, Mr. Chen feltpelled to investigate.
The initial phase involved pre-selection, where a hundred young men would be chosen.
Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang took charge, apanied by their guards, assessing the physical condition and age of the applicants.
Although the announcementcked explicit criteria, certain conditions were implied: good health, a presentable appearance, literacy, and eloquence. Those meeting these conditions could progress.
Some of them exhibited strength and possessed basic martial arts skills.
Priority was given to those adept at scaling heights, navigating low terrain, and moving freely across rooftops. Mr. Chen rified that as constables, they might need to chase criminals who would take to the roofs.
Those selected were provided with a note detailing their names, ages, family members, and their proficiency in specific skills.
Approximately 500 to 600 people formed the queue, with the goal of selecting 100 men. Mr. Chen would then review and filter out half of them.
In essence, out of every hundred registrants, only ten would be chosen, making for a rtively low selection rate.
Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang took their responsibilities seriously, having decided not to entertain bribes or ept any undue advantages. Theymitted to following Mr. Chen¡¯s guidelines, a decision influenced by the previous night¡¯s meal.
They recognized that the meager benefits they might gain were inconsequentialpared to Governor Su¡¯s generous reward. Any attempt to let undeserving individuals pass through bribery could be easily exposed by Mr. Chen.
Mr. Chen observed their actions from the sidelines.
After a morning of selection, they finally settled on 50 young men.
Poxed Face Wang, addressing the disappointed queue behind him, dered loudly, ¡°I apologize, but today¡¯s selection concludes here!¡±
¡°Everyone, be sure to arrive early for the next recruitment!¡±
The lingering crowd expressed regret, acknowledging their failure to decide promptly to join the queue.
Nevertheless, Poxed Face Wang assured them that there would be another opportunity next time.
The fifty sessful candidates were each given thirty copper coins to return the next day. At that time, 30 copper coins could buy 10 meat buns, indicating a fairpensation for their efforts..
Chapter 506 - 506: Secret
Chapter 506 - 506: Secret
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The young men who received the money were all happily preparing to head home. However, as the thought of tomorrow¡¯s assessment crossed their minds, they couldn¡¯t help but discuss it among themselves.
¡°I wonder what test we¡¯ll be facing tomorrow?¡±
Someone spected, ¡°It¡¯s probably a written test! Governor Su is a distinguished schr. He likely values good writing and poetry recitation. His essays are renowned for their smooth prose.¡±
Several faces among the group turned somber.
¡°If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯m in trouble. I may know words and be able to write a bit, but I¡¯m no good with poetry or articles.¡±
¡°Same here!¡±
¡°I¡¯m in the same boat! If they expect us to excel in writing, poetry, and articles, we might as well audition for a talent show. What¡¯s the point of bing constables?¡±
Many expressed their skepticism, deeming it an impossible expectation.
¡°That can¡¯t be true. We¡¯re here to apprehend criminals, not to showcase our literary talents.¡±
Someone quickly agreed, saying, ¡°Brother, you¡¯re right. I don¡¯t think it¡¯s all about writing. There might be a written test segment, but it¡¯s likely not focused on articles and poems.¡±
¡°I think we should prepare for physical challenges. Let¡¯s see who¡¯s stronger and more agile.¡±
Another person chimed in, ¡°Instead of specting, why not ask Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang? Let¡¯s pool some money and buy them a pot of wine.
They¡¯ll surely spill the details.¡±
Someone apuded the suggestion, saying, ¡°Great idea! I¡¯m willing to contribute two copper coins.¡±
With fifty people each chipping in two copper coins, they could easily afford a pot of wine. The idea gained immediate support, with several individuals expressing their willingness to contribute to the cause.
However, there were individuals who were reluctant.
¡°I think it¡¯s better not to ask. It¡¯s a waste of money.¡±
¡°If you¡¯re being frugal, fine. But refusing to part with two copper coins and giving all sorts of excuses¡ªwhat¡¯s your excuse for wasting money?¡±
The person responded eloquently, ¡°If you inquire about tomorrow¡¯s assessment, what¡¯s the point? In one night, you can practice your speech and improve your essay writing. Can you learn martial arts in that time?¡± ¡°You guys have nothing to say, right? You know you definitely can¡¯t, right?¡±
¡°That¡¯s why we shouldn¡¯t ask. Otherwise, we¡¯ll end up cramming for this overnight project. We¡¯ll be drained during the assessment tomorrow. It¡¯ll backfire!¡±
Many agreed that the person had a valid point.
Approximately a third of the group decided to head home first.
Seeing this, others followed suit.
However, some individuals remained adamant, feeling it was safer to seek answers.
About ten people discreetly pooled a hundred copper coins and sought out Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang.
Yet, the response they received was firm, ¡°This is ssified information. We can¡¯t disclose it!¡±
The leader promptly handed over a hundred copper coins. ¡°There¡¯s enough money here to buy a pot of wine. Please share with us the details of tomorrow¡¯s assessment.¡±
¡°I promise we won¡¯t tell anyone.¡±
Liu Dazhuang shook his head. ¡°Honestly, even we don¡¯t know this secret. How can we tell you?¡±
Embarrassed, these individuals left without obtaining an answer. The more they contemted, the more they became convinced of the impossibility.
How could Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang not know?
They needed to get ready for tomorrow¡¯s assessment, whether it was gathering pen and paper for the written test or preparing the venue for the martial artspetition, correct?
As a result, some individuals believed they were wise, thinking that there wasn¡¯t enough money for a pot of wine.
Others felt that too many people were going together.
Given the secrecy of the matter, it shouldn¡¯t be discussed openly.
Consequently, someone awaited Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang on their way home.
However, the response they got was consistent and unchanged..
Chapter 507 - 507: Swinging
Chapter 507: Swinging
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In an old house with three entrances and three exits, Su Bin was assisting Qin Zhenzhen as she enjoyed a swing.
As the swing soared to great heights, the sounds of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s delightedughter filled the air.
¡°Hahaha, this is so satisfying!¡±
The days of feigning pregnancy had truly wearied her. Enduring the constant pretense of fragility, using white powder to create a paleplexion, and asionally feigning bouts of sickness had be tiresome.
Even during travel, she dared not disy too much liveliness and confined herself to the carriage.
However, in the secluded Upper Forest, there was little to fear. As the saying went, the emperor was far away.
By chance, Su Bin had purchased a house with a robust swing in the backyard. Qin Zhenzhen, feeling yful after suppressing the urge for two days, had decided today was the day to indulge.
Assured that everyone in the house was trustworthy, she knew her secret pastime wouldn¡¯t be revealed.
Su Bin, far from discouraging her, aided in propelling the swing to greater heights.
Observing her with curiosity, he remarked, ¡°It seems like you¡¯re no stranger to swinging?¡±
In their vige, he had never encountered a swing capable of such heights. Moreover, rural folk, burdened by the struggle for daily sustenance, seldom had the luxury of crafting such borate ythings.
Having visited Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s home before, he knew there was no such swing in the vicinity.
Upon entering Su Bin¡¯s house, Qin Zhenzhen hadn¡¯t noticed any signs of a swing in the backyard.
Yet, she seemed to be intimately familiar with it.
Casually, Qin Zhenzhen admitted, ¡°That¡¯s right! I used to love swinging the most! It was one of the few things you could enjoy without spending money.¡±
As the words slipped out, she realized she had revealed a part of her past. Nevertheless, she didn¡¯t mind. Now that she was truly a wife to Su Bin, she intended to share her secrets gradually.
There were no secrets between husband and wife.
Su Bin, intrigued, inquired further, ¡°When was this? Did you enjoy it before or after marrying me? Were you still a child when you started?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled, ¡°Would you believe me if I said I¡¯ve swung countless times in my dreams?¡±
¡°In dreams, you don¡¯t have to worry about spending money on anything, right?¡±
Naturally skeptical, Su Bin didn¡¯t press the issue. Instead, he focused on pushing the swing with more enthusiasm.
After a while, Su Bin brought the swing to a stop.
The excitement had flushed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s pretty face.
Su Bin, moved by the moment, couldn¡¯t resist hugging her and lowering his head for a kiss.
Qin Zhenzhen reciprocated but gently pushed him away.
¡°Husband, why don¡¯t you give it a try as well?¡±
Having had her turn, Qin Zhenzhen pulled Su Bin over and had him take a seat. She nned for him to get ustomed to it before they both sat on it together.
Su Bin agreed, saying, ¡°Alright!¡±
Their perspectives on the matter, however, were quite different.
He wanted to experience the excitement for himself, wondering how she could not be afraid of such a thrilling activity.
Even if she imed to have experienced it in a dream, it was still just a dream. Doing it so naturally from the start without personal experience seemed imusible, right?
Su Bin settled onto the swing, gripping the thick ropes on both sides.
¡°Wife, don¡¯t swing it too high at the beginning. I wouldn¡¯t make for aplete husband if I fell from the sky.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help butugh at Su Bin¡¯s nervousness.
¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t send you sky-high right away. I¡¯ll take it step by step!¡±
Silently in his heart, Su Bin mused, ¡°You understand the concept of taking it step by step? Then why did you let me push it higher and higher from the start until I couldn¡¯t go any higher?¡±
Chapter 508 - 508: Morning Sickness
Chapter 508: Morning Sickness
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
As the swing swayed, Su Bin remained a bit nervous.
In that moment, he was certain that his wife must have experienced swinging countless times, exining herck of nervousness.
Nevertheless, he quickly fell in love with the sensation of soaring into the air before the descent.
Discovering how fascinating a girl¡¯s toy could be, he chuckled to himself, ¡®I won¡¯t admit to ying this again.¡¯
Once Su Bin had his fill of the experience, Qin Zhenzhen brought the swing to a stop.
¡°Why don¡¯t the two of us sit together and enjoy it?¡±
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s enthusiasm, Su Bin didn¡¯t want to dampen her spirits, so he agreed with a nod. ¡°Alright!¡± ¡°But let¡¯s not y for too long.¡±
¡°Sure, got it.¡±
While Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin reveled in their enjoyment, Su Ning arrived in the backyard. Witnessing their joyous y, she hurried over and eximed,
¡°Stop!¡±
¡°Stop, stop, stop! Third Brother, Third Sister-inw, what are you doing?!
Stop!¡±
She rushed over and halted the swing.
Qin Zhenzhen rolled her eyes at Su Ning. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?! I¡¯m just having fun!¡±
Scolding Su Bin, Su Ning dered, ¡°Third Brother, is there something wrong with your head? Have you forgotten that Third Sister-inw is pregnant?¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried about frightening the baby in Third Sister-inw¡¯s belly?¡±
¡°What if it¡¯s unstable¡
Su Ning hesitated, refraining from expressing any ominous thoughts.
¡°Actually¡¡±
Su Bin attempted to offer an exnation but decided that he should discuss it with his sisterter.
Observing his intention to exin, Su Ning shot him a fierce re. ¡°Actually, what is it? Actually, you¡¯re too thoughtless!¡±
Even if he cherished his wife, he couldn¡¯t let her engage in reckless behavior.
Su Ning believed her brother was about to say that Qin Zhenzhen wanted to y, so he joined her.
Two days ago, she had already sensed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s desire to use the swing, noting the anticipation on her face. Wanting to avoid making her sister-inw feel left out, Su Ning refrained from ying.
Little did she expect her brother and sister-inw to sneak in and y when she wasn¡¯t around. How troublesome!
Su Bin found himself caught betweenughter and exasperation. It was the first time his little sister had scolded him.
After Su Ning rebuked her brother, she turned to Qin Zhenzhen with disdain. ¡°Third Sister-inw, can¡¯t you be more sensible?¡±
¡°I heard from Auntie Wang that during the early stages of pregnancy, one shouldn¡¯t engage in strenuous activities. And here you are, swinging so high.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen looked embarrassed.
¡°Yes, I won¡¯t do it again.¡±
As she spoke, an ufortable sensation gripped her stomach, causing her to bend over and retch.
Su Ning was rmed. ¡°Third Sister-inw, are you okay? You look so pale.¡±
Su Bin hurriedly approached to assist Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Wife, are you feeling very unwell? Let me help you back to your room. Lie down and rest; you¡¯ll feel better.¡±
He assumed Qin Zhenzhen was feigning difort, using the opportunity to have him assist her to avoid any further discussion with his little sister.
¡°Wife, let¡¯s go back to the room¡ Endure it for a bit¡ You might catch a cold if you keep retching. Be a good girl and listen to me. Come, let¡¯s go back to the room.¡±
Despite Su Bin¡¯s subtle hints, Qin Zhenzhen continued to retch, even pushing him away.
¡°You¡ stay back¡ I might dirty your clothester¡¡±
Su Bin found himself torn betweenughter and frustration. The situation was bing quiteical!
Su Ning, equally concerned, joined in persuading Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Third Sister-inw, Third Brother is right.. Let¡¯s go back to the room first¡¡±
Chapter 509 - 509: Sour Plum
Chapter 509 - 509: Sour Plum
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
However, just as Su Ning approached Qin Zhenzhen, she genuinely vomited the lunch onto Su Ning¡¯s shoes.
If she were to expel the contents of her stomach, it wouldn¡¯t taste as pleasant.
Qin Zhenzhen attempted to push Su Ning away, but it was toote.
¡°I¡¯m sorry, little sister¡ I dirtied your shoes.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt a bit embarrassed.
Su Ning waved it off. ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine. I can change them. More importantly, are you feeling better now?¡±
She shot another using nce at her third brother, as if to say: This is all because of you!
Then, Su Ning gently suggested to Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Third Sister-inw, let Third Brother help you back to your room. I¡¯ll bring you some new sour plums.
Eating them might help with your nausea.¡±
With that, Su Ning hurried into the house to retrieve the sour plums.
While Qin Zhenzhen used the sour plums to deceive people, Su Ning believed that importing them might alleviate pregnancy symptoms.
Feeling a sudden sigh escape her, Qin Zhenzhen contemted her actions.
¡°Wife, why are you sighing?¡±
Su Bin frowned. Was she overacting?
First, she pretended to vomit, and then she genuinely did.
Why did she need to go to such lengths?
Yet, as he looked closer at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face and felt the cold sweat on her palms, he grew concerned. ¡°Wife, are you truly unwell?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face paled. She frowned and said, ¡°Mm¡ I feel really ufortable. Let¡¯s go back to the room.¡±
¡°Okay!¡±
Su Bin promptly assisted her back to their room.
Before they reached the door, Qin Zhenzhen vomited once again. Su Bin med himself. ¡°It¡¯s all my fault. If I hadn¡¯t yed with you, this wouldn¡¯t have happened.¡±
His intention was merely to experience the swing himself and see if someone unfamiliar with such exhrating motions could handle it.
In reality, Qin Zhenzhen had suggested they y together due to her yful nature, and Su Bin had simply agreed out of politeness.
Unexpectedly, Qin Zhenzhen shot Su Bin a bitter look. ¡°Of course, it¡¯s your fault! ¡±
This puzzled Su Bin.
However, observing that Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s distress was genuine, Su Bin chose not to argue. He carried her princess-style all the way to the bed.
In the midst of this, Su Ning returned with the sour plums she had gone to fetch.
Swiftly picking one up with chopsticks, she inserted it into Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mouth.
Surprisingly, as the sour taste reached her stomach, Qin Zhenzhen immediately felt a lessening of difort.
She couldn¡¯t help but ask Su Ning for another one.
¡°Give me the jar of sour plums. These new ones taste even better than the previous ones.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen hadn¡¯t anticipated the unique vor of the Shanglin plums. They seemed almost like a panacea, swiftly alleviating the difort in her stomach.
She craved more.
Su Ning happily handed the entire jar of sour plums to Qin Zhenzhen.
Su Bin¡¯s eyes hurt.
Just moments ago, he believed his wife was genuinely unwell, and now, a sour plum had seemingly cured her. Was this all an act?
In this moment, Su Bin found himself truly impressed by Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ability to act so convincingly.
His wife¡¯s skills in internal strength cultivation must be at a remarkable level.
It appeared that he needed to diligently catch up to his wife¡¯s prowess. Su Ning chuckled. ¡°I knew it. Sour plums are truly the best!¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw, I¡¯ve heard from those olderdies that sour cravings indicate a boy, my dear nephew!¡±
¡°If you believe the plums from Shanglin are superior to those in the capital, I¡¯ll promptly buy more.. It¡¯s never wrong to stock up!¡±
Chapter 510 - 510: Pregnant
Chapter 510 - 510: Pregnant
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After uttering this, Su Ning turned to Su Bin with a concerned expression. ¡°Third Brother, don¡¯t be so thoughtless. I¡¯ll go buy sour plums now. You need to take good care of Third Sister-inw, okay?¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t contain himself. ¡°Sister, hold on!¡±
¡°I remember we¡¯ve already bought plenty of sour plums. Why are we buying more?¡±
Su Ning argued, ¡°If we don¡¯t buy more now, what if we run out? What if Third Sister-inw wants to eat more, and there¡¯s none left? Third Brother, I don¡¯t mean to criticize, but you¡¯re being too stingy! Sour plums don¡¯t cost much, and you¡¯re telling me not to buy them!¡±
Su Bin didn¡¯t know whether tough or sigh. He had toe up with a reason to stop his sister.
¡°Little Sister, you¡¯ve misunderstood me. That¡¯s not what I meant. I was thinking that we just arrived in Shanglin, and we¡¯re not familiar with the area.
It¡¯s risky for you to go out alone as a young girl.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t inform Third Brother either. I¡¯ll have the guards apany you.¡±
¡°If you run into an unexpected situation, one or two guards won¡¯t be enough to ensure your safety.¡±
¡°And if you take too many guards, won¡¯t our home be more vulnerable without them protecting the family?¡±
¡°If you want sour plums, I¡¯ll have them bought for you.¡±
After listening to Third Brother¡¯s exnation, Su Ning pursed her lips in disagreement. ¡°Third Brother, you¡¯re wrong. I think the ones I bought are better. Third Sister-inw prefers them!¡±
¡°Third Sister-inw, am I right?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and nodded.
Su Bin didn¡¯t know whether tough or cry. He asserted shamelessly, ¡°Sister, you¡¯re even more mistaken. If what you bought is better, did I buy it? It should be better than what you got.¡±
¡°Here¡¯s the deal. You don¡¯t have to bother about buying sour plums. I¡¯ll handle it. It¡¯s none of your concern.¡±
Su Ning promptly dered, ¡°Then go ahead and buy them!¡±
¡°After Third Sister-inw feels better, I¡¯ll go get them!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen wanted tough at the siblings¡¯ banter, but she restrained herself.
Observing Third Brother and Third Sister-inw, Su Ning suddenly realized that she might be unintentionally intruding on their affectionate rtionship. ¡°I¡ I¡¯ll go back. The pillow I¡¯m embroidering isn¡¯t finished yet.¡±
Blushing, Su Ning turned and swiftly made her exit. As she fled, she reminded Su Bin, ¡°Third Brother, don¡¯t just say it. Remember to buy them!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t forget.¡±
Once Su Ning was out of earshot, Qin Zhenzhen couldn¡¯t help but burst intoughter.
¡°Do you find it amusing? Watch how I¡¯ll punish you!¡±
Su Bin yfully pretended to push Qin Zhenzhen down, but she quickly stopped him. ¡°Don¡¯t be impulsive. I¡¯m pregnant!¡±
Earlier, while Su Bin and his sister were arguing, Qin Zhenzhen had taken her pulse and confirmed her suspicion. It was a happy pulse¡ªshe was indeed pregnant this time.
That¡¯s what Qin Zhenzhen believed. In this ancient setting, considering their age, she and Su Bin were in their prime fertility period. As the saying goes, ¡°When in Rome, do as the Romans do.¡± She and Su Bin could now start a family.
She couldn¡¯t determine if it was her imagination, but in this world, derived from a book, everything felt distinct from her previous reality.
The human structure and developmental stages here also appeared slightly different from her former world.
For instance, in the real world, a 15 or 16-year-old girl might still be considered childish, and a 17 or 18-year-old boy could be seen as an inexperienced youth.
Bearing children at too young an age could result in significant physical harm in the real world.
Yet, in this alternate reality, 15-year-old girls and 17-year-old boys were already established as mature individuals and even governors.
Whether it was in terms of physical or psychological maturity, they appeared remarkably advanced..
Chapter 511 - 511: Good News
Chapter 511 - 511: Good News
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In other words, the maturation period of the human body in this world urred five to six years earlier than in her original world.
Moreover, Qin Zhenzhen, being a medical student, possessed a thorough understanding of her body¡¯s development and was prepared for childbirth.
The decision to postpone having a child was entirely hers.
Su Bin¡¯s unspoken sentiments were clear to Qin Zhenzhen. While he didn¡¯t articte it, she sensed he shared the prevailing views of this society, where having a child promptly was deemed advantageous.
Perhaps out of respect, Su Bin refrained from pressuring her about the timing of parenthood.
Considering her decision to feign pregnancy, Qin Zhenzhen contemted allowing nature to take its course, foregoing contraception. If conception proved elusive, they could persist with the charade andter assert a miscarriage or adopt a child.
Conceiving would be optimal, and a few extra months seemed inconsequential.
After all, hadn¡¯t there been instances of pregnanciessting twelve months?
In a literary work she recalled, the male lead, the Third Prince, spent a year in his mother¡¯s womb, yet his birth seemed expedited, showcasing unparalleled intelligence that outshone his princely peers.
This achievement even earned his mother a special reward from the emperor.
The fear instilled by the Third Prince prompted the Public House to contemte nefarious actions, including poisoning his mother and even attempting to poison him in his youth.
While Qin Zhenzhen had foreseen many potential scenarios, she hadn¡¯t anticipated contracting an infection shortly after discontinuing contraceptive measures.
The speed of the onset caught her so swiftly that she couldn¡¯t inform Su Bin in time.
Speaking of her pregnancy, the reaction was unusually intense. Not even a month had passed, and the symptoms, including vomiting, were already evident.
Initially thinking it was a jest, Su Bin yed along to avoid dampening Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mood.
He teased, ¡°Pregnant, huh? You should experience it fully.¡±
¡°How dare you say such things!¡± she retorted, visibly angered by Su Bin¡¯s words. Reacting impulsively, she gently pushed him away.
Her robust physique,bined with her strenuous efforts, easily overpowered Su Bin, almost sending him to the ground.
Realizing he had crossed a line, Su Bin swiftly apologized, ¡°Wife, calm down. It was just a joke. If you¡¯re genuinely pregnant, why would I risk touching you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen rolled her eyes at him, ¡°You ruined the moment!¡±
¡°I had good news to share, but now¡¡± Su Bin trailed off, sensing something was off with Qin Zhenzhen.
Reflecting on the situation, he recalled she had been ying on the swing moments before, and immediately after descending, she unexpectedly vomited. If it were an act for Su Ning¡¯s benefit, she would likely wait for moments without an audience. Additionally, the authenticity of her vomiting was undeniable.
Carrying her back to her room, she didn¡¯t resist, a departure from her usual refusal to such actions in broad daylight. Given her recent im of being pregnant and untouchable, Su Bin¡¯s casual joke had elicited an unexpectedly intense reaction.
Good news?
Was it possible that his wife was genuinely pregnant, and he was on the brink of bing a father?
Su Bin shook his head once more.
It seemed improbable. His wife had explicitly expressed her reluctance to have a child so soon. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have gone through the charade of pretending to be pregnant..
Chapter 512 - 512: Fickle
Chapter 512 - 512: Fickle
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Wife, what¡¯s the good news you have for me?¡± ¡°Could it be that you truly have a baby on the way?¡±
¡°Are you serious, or is this another one of your jokes?¡±
Although skeptical about his wife¡¯s pregnancy, Su Bin couldn¡¯t contain his excitement and fired off a series of questions.
Qin Zhenzhen shot him a disdainful look, questioning hisprehension. ¡°Do you think I have time to y jokes with you?¡±
Stunned, Su Bin pressed further in surprise, ¡°Really? Are you being serious? You¡¯re pregnant, and I¡¯m going to be a father?¡±
¡°Does this mean we no longer have to pretend about being pregnant? Is it real?¡±
¡°Was your reaction just now genuine?¡±
Observing Su Bin¡¯s joy akin to that of a child, Qin Zhenzhen nodded with delight, momentarily forgetting the earlier episode.
This was their first child, a cause for genuine happiness.
¡°This is fantastic! This is amazing!¡± Su Bin eximed, almost on the verge of jumping in joy. However, a sudden recollection of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s pale face, cold sweat, and ufortable vomiting sobered him.
His smile faded as he asked with concern, ¡°Wife, are you still feeling unwell?¡± Qin Zhenzhen shook her head gently. ¡°I¡¯ve already had plenty of sour plums.¡±
Yet, she knew the difort was only beginning.
Su Bin¡¯s joy turned to worry. ¡°Wife, you¡¯ve been through a lot.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded, ¡°Yes, carrying a child must be challenging, but knowing he¡¯s our child makes it worthwhile.¡±
Su Bin gently embraced Qin Zhenzhen, expressing his gratitude, ¡°Thank you, wife! ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled, ¡°Why so formal? You¡¯re acting as if this child belongs to you alone.¡±
Su Bin spoke earnestly, ¡°Wife, words can¡¯t convey what I¡¯m feeling right now.
When I saw you pretending to be pregnant, I thought it was an exaggeration.
Witnessing your pain firsthand, I now understand the difficulty of pregnancy.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen concurred, ¡°Indeed, this is just the beginning.¡±
¡°But don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m a skilled doctor. I¡¯ll prepare the right foods to alleviate pregnancy symptoms.¡±
Su Bin inquired further, ¡°Wife, you haven¡¯t told me the whole story. Didn¡¯t you say we weren¡¯t in a rush to have a child? When did you stop the precautions?¡±
Aware that his wife, being a skilled doctor, employed distinct measures, Su Bin was uncertain about the specifics but trusted their effectiveness.
Qin Zhenzhen then recounted the circumstances.
¡°I found pretending to be pregnant a bit tiresome, always having to be cautious about exposure. So, I thought, why not just get pregnant.¡±
Su Bin med himself, ¡°It¡¯s my fault for suggesting the fake pregnancy. I inadvertently disrupted our original n.¡±
He reminisced about the liveliness of his wife before the pretense, free to do as she pleased. However, once she became ¡°pregnant,¡± she grew cautious and resisted his touch.
Su Bin realized that having a child a year or twoter wouldn¡¯t have mattered much. He regretted not considering this before proposing the fake pregnancy, now understanding the impact it had on their original ns.
Little did he anticipate that his wife would sacrifice the n for the sake of a broader perspective.
Qin Zhenzhen smiled, ¡°I did it willingly!¡±
She acknowledged that her perspective had shifted a bit after being intimate with Su Bin.
Initially, she hadn¡¯t nned on having a child so soon. Aware that parenthood brought additional responsibilities and ties, she was also influenced by her past-life mindset. The notion of having a child at the age of fifteen or sixteen seemed absurd to her..
Chapter 513 - 513: Assessment
Chapter 513 - 513: Assessment
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
However, the stronger the bond between Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin grew, the more she found herself desiring to bring their child into the world.
She couldn¡¯t quite exin the shift in her feelings.
There was just a sense that their child would embody the best qualities of both Su Bin and herself, perhaps even surpassing them.
The thought of a miniature version of the two of them, exquisitelybined, brought her joy.
¡°Then why didn¡¯t you tell me sooner?¡± Su Bin inquired.
Blushing, Qin Zhenzhen admitted, ¡°I wanted to share it with you earlier, but I didn¡¯t anticipate it happening so swiftly. I did some calctions¡ªit hadn¡¯t even been a month since I discontinued the measures.¡¯
Su Bin, finding the situation almost magical, eximed, ¡°It¡¯s truly unbelievable!¡±
Less than a month had passed since the fake pregnancy ruse, making the timing quite extraordinary.
Rolling her eyes, Qin Zhenzhen retorted, ¡°Why is that so hard to believe?¡± ¡°Considering your reluctance to spend the night, you should be aware that frequent intimacy enhances the chances of conceiving during pregnancy preparation. ¡±
Unexpectedly swift results had caught her off guard, and she decided to keep this particr piece of knowledge from Su Bin for the time being, intending to discuss their ns for the next childter.
The following day, the fifty young men who had sessfully passed the initial round gathered at the government office early, eagerly anticipating the uing assessment.
To their surprise, the government office was bustling with activity. Workers were transporting repair materials¡ªsand, stones, tiles¡ªand skilled craftsmen focused on the task of renovating the entire premises.
Liu Dazhuang, Poxed Face Wang, and the others were already on site, overseeing the cement of materials and instructing the workers.
It was evident that Governor Su had allocated a considerable sum for these renovations, disying his wealth and influence.
The decision to align themselves with Governor Su seemed justified.
However, confusion arose among the young men as they had arrived early for the assessment, not expecting a construction scene.
Approaching Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang, they inquired, ¡°Are we still having the assessment today?¡±
Poxed Face Wang affirmed, ¡°Of course. Who said there won¡¯t be an assessment?¡±
He pointed towards Governor Su and Mr. Chen, indicating that they should line up and wait for Su Bin to announce the assessment details.
It seemed the repairs were merely a prelude to the actual assessment.
Governor Su, ted due to impending fatherhood, was in an exceptionally good mood.
¡°Today¡¯s assessment is a bit unconventional.¡±
¡°Mr. Chen, please exin the n.¡±
Mr. Chen proceeded to outline the strategy he had devised in consultation with Su Bin.
¡°As you can see, the government office ismencing repairs starting today. While the materials and master craftsmen are ready, we¡¯re in need of additionalbor.¡±
¡°Governor Su wishes for you to assist with these tasks, considering it as part of your assessment.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve consulted the hired master, and the repair work is expected to take about ten days.¡±
¡°For the assessment, there will be two temporary stages. The first stagests for five days, during which half of the participants will be eliminated.¡±
¡°The second stage is also five days, concluding when the government office repairs areplete, leading to the elimination of another half of the participants. The final results will be announced.¡±
¡°As for your tasks, please follow the instructions of Liu Dazhuang, Poxed Face Wang, and the repair master.¡±
The fifty young men couldn¡¯t help but exchange whispers.
¡°Are we turning into free handymen once again?¡±
¡°We¡¯ve been working for them for ten days without knowing if we get to stay. It feels like a considerable loss.
¡°They say Governor Su¡¯s Mr. Chen is influential. Well, this n does show his influence in action..
Chapter 514 - 514: An Eyesore
Chapter 514: An Eyesore
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Although the fifty men harbored dissatisfaction, none of them walked away in protest.
Mr. Chen observed their discontent.
¡°Governor Su mentioned that this assessment is unique, and the distinct nature of it wille with special considerations. For the next ten days, you¡¯ll receive daily wages calcted at the standard rate for handymen.¡±
¡°However, if anyone still deems it a loss, you have the option to voluntarily forfeit your spot.¡±
He paused, awaiting any takers.
The men exchanged nces, but none signaled an intention to leave. One even voiced a query, ¡°If we start with 25 people and eliminate half, will the second elimination leave us with 13 or 12 candidates?¡±
They were eager to understand their odds and secure another opportunity.
Mr. Chen rified, ¡°My apologies for any confusion. Regardless of the number remaining after the second stage, only twelve will move forward.¡±
¡°Until then, no one can be certain. Commit to the task without withdrawing midway.¡±
In unison, the 50 young men pledged, ¡°We will see it through to the end!¡±
Those who had advanced in the first round demonstrated resilience and endurance, traits well-suited for handyman work.
Su Bin expressed contentment with theirmitment, saying, ¡°It¡¯s settled then. Liu Dazhuang, Poxed Face Wang, get them ready for work.¡±
¡°Yes!¡± responded Liu Dazhuang and Poxed Face Wang, leading the group to their tasks.
Meanwhile, Mr. Chen remained to oversee thebor, while Su Bin promptly returned home to be with his wife.
Su Bin hurried home and, upon learning that his wife was in the backyard, promptly headed there to find her.
In the pavilion, Su Ning and Mother Wang were with Qin Zhenzhen, where appetizers were set on the table.
Looking at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expression, Su Bin inquired, ¡°Wife, how are you feeling now?¡±
Having witnessed his wife vomit earlier in the day, his heart ached at the memory. He wished he could endure the difort on her behalf.
¡°I feel much better after having some sour plums.¡±
Although not as lively as before andcking her usual vigor, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s improved state offered some relief to Su Bin¡¯s concerns.
¡°Have you eaten this morning?¡± Su Bin inquired.
Su Ning chimed in, ¡°Third Sister-inw didn¡¯t want much. She only had some porridge.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled, ¡°Porridge can still fill my stomach. Besides, I had other things. ¡±
The spiritual water on her finger functioned as effectively as any pregnancy stabilization pill. Apart from the morning vomiting, she experienced minimal difort.
Now, her thoughts turned to her ns for Fourth Brother.
Originally, she could have feigned pregnancy, avoiding public appearances and secretly aiding Fourth Brother in quelling the riot. However, with her current pregnancy, Su Bin wouldn¡¯t permit her to risk such endeavors.
Feeling somewhat powerless, Qin Zhenzhen realized she had underestimated the challenges posed by pregnancy reactions.
Su Bin gazed at her tenderly. ¡°What did you eat? Do you still want something?
I¡¯ll get it for you.¡±
Su Ning was taken aback. What was going on with her Third Brother?
Throughout Third Sister-inw¡¯s previous pregnancies, she had never witnessed this side of Third Brother.
His gentle demeanor toward Third Sister-inw seemed as if he could wring water from his voice. Were Su Ning and Auntie Wang bing a nuisance to Third Brother?
Catching Auntie Wang¡¯s eye, Su Ning stood up. ¡°Auntie Wang, the bedclothes in my room need changing. Join me, please.¡±
She and.
Chapter 515 - 515: Worry
Chapter 515 - 515: Worry
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Auntie Wang understood and promptly responded, ¡°Yes, Sixth Miss.¡±
Observing Su Ning and Auntie Wang¡¯s departure, Su Bin settled beside Qin Zhenzhen, gently embracing her.
¡°Wife, you seem a bit distressed. Are you feeling exceptionally ufortable?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t overthink it. I¡¯m not feeling too bad. I¡¯m just concerned about Fourth Brother and Second Brother.¡±
In truth, her worries weren¡¯t overwhelming. She trusted her fourth brother¡¯s rebirth.
Nevertheless, a twinge of concern lingered.
She hoped her fourth brother would heed Second Brother¡¯smands.
Su Bin let out a sigh of relief.
¡°No need to fret over Second Brother and Fourth Brother. The Dragon Phoenix Hall¡¯s members have already delivered letters to them.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen revealed, ¡°I arranged for people to go, but I can¡¯t do it now. Some matters can¡¯t be exined in a letter. We need to meet.¡±
Withpetent martial arts and medical skills, she could aid Fourth Brother effectively. Her timely treatment could minimize casualties, ensuring better rewards for Fourth Brother and his allies.
Her concern, however, revolved around the numerical disparity.
Over 10,000 people had congregated, but Fourth Brothermanded only 5,000 regr soldiers. The additional 5,000 had to be sourced locally, making it uncertain if he could enlist that many.
Even if the local forces were cooperative and had mustered 5,000 soldiers, these troops were essentially a disorganized mob, posing an 80% chance of bing a burden.
Sensing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s concerns, Su Bin attempted to reassure her. ¡°Have faith in Fourth Brother. A recruit without a background can rise to the rank of chiliarch in a year, not solely by luck but also due to absolute strength.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled, expressing her hope for Fourth Brother¡¯s sess in a significant battle to secure a foothold in the military.
A few yearster, if Fourth Brother held significant military power, their situation would likely improve.
Observing his wife¡¯s smile, Su Bin reciprocated, ¡°I know you¡¯re not just worried about Fourth Brother. It¡¯s my Second Brother you¡¯re concerned about. His temperament was indeed unstable in the past.¡±
¡°But you needn¡¯t fret too much. You¡¯re aware that my Second Brother respects your Fourth Brother. With Fourth Brother holding a higher official position now, Second Brother will undoubtedly heed his instructions.¡±
¡°Moreover, I made it clear in the letter that he must follow Fourth Brother¡¯s lead and avoid recklessness. The repercussions of rash actions won¡¯t only endanger him but also implicate all the soldiers.¡±
¡°Despite his impulsive nature, Second Brother is loyal. He can¡¯t bear to see his brothers harmed.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s worry eased with Su Bin¡¯s exnation, and she genuinely smiled.
¡°Wife, the wind is strong in the backyard. Let¡¯s return to our room.¡±
Though it was early summer, Su Bin felt it safer to retreat indoors, considering the possibility of his wife catching a cold if she were to vomit.
Unfazed, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°Don¡¯t treat me like porcin. I¡¯m under enough pressure. I¡¯m a doctor, and I know my physical condition best. I understand what I can and can¡¯t handle.¡±
¡°Besides, don¡¯t view me as a delicate flower. Imposing too many restrictions on pregnant women isn¡¯t ideal.¡±
¡°We grew up in the countryside. It¡¯s not as if you haven¡¯t witnessed it before. The women in the vige go about their daily lives during pregnancy as if nothing has changed. They continue with their farm work, even when they¡¯re about to give birth, working in the fields.¡±
¡°Truth be told, I lean more towards the everyday activities of pregnant women like that..¡±
Chapter 516 - 516: Riot
Chapter 516: Riot
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
An urgent message arrived from the capital, reaching the southern military camp, prompting General Chen to swiftly follow the instructions and mobilize his troops.
Upon receiving the order, Qin Silong and hispanions set out towards Three Flowers County.
Per the instructions, upon reaching each county, they were to deliver the document to the county magistrate and, in return, receive five to six hundred soldiers provided by the magistrate.
To worsen matters, these soldiers were unprepared, with some counties even resorting tost-minute recruitment, unexpectedly scrambling to gather
young men.
The Imperial Court¡¯s decision to send troops to quell the unrest and recruitst-minute soldiers caught everyone off guard. Typically, county defense teams consisted of 100 to 200 part-time members, primarily reserved for sudden incidents.
Despite the unconditional requisition of these individuals, the numbers fell short.
The impromptu recruitment faced obstacles, with few volunteers willing to join. Without proper training, these recruits were essentially being sent to the battlefield unprepared and unwilling to risk their lives.
County magistrates resorted to drawing lots,pelling families chosen by the draw to contribute a man. Those not selected had to pay a fee.
Wealthier individuals opted to pay, having the means to find substitutes even if they were chosen. Money, in their eyes, could persuade anyone.
All these processes consumed valuable time. In addition to recruiting soldiers, there was the added challenge of provisioning food for the uing campaign.
The inhabitants of various counties voiced theirints, while county governors frowned and cursed the emperor for his perceived ipetence.
Sending troops to quell the unrest, the emperor had failed to provide sufficient troops and grain, exacerbating the dissatisfaction among the people.
Qin Silong¡¯s anxiety proved futile, as military orders were absolute, and failing to recruit enough personnel would constitute a vition of these orders.
The waiting period extended for more than seven to eight days, during which they managed to recruit around 4,000 people. Seeing that it was time, Qin
Silong led the army on a two-day, two-night march to reach the rioting Three Flowers County.
Upon arrival, Qin Silong ordered the army to rest, positioning them about three days away from Su Bin and the others.
Having received Su Bin¡¯s letter and cross-referenced it with the apanying
personnel, Qin Silong also received a private message from Qin Zhenzhen. She employed a secret code unique to her and Fourth Brother, encouraging Qin Silong to stayposed and learn to navigate the situation to emerge victorious. She hinted at the possibility of personally offering assistance from behind the scenes.
The prospect of reuniting with his little sister brought a smile to Qin Silong¡¯s face, bolstering his confidence.
Three Flowers County was nestled in the mountains, surrounded on all sides by elevated terrain¡ªa strategic location ideal for troop garrisoning. With mountains serving as natural barriers, guarding the entrance and exit would be a feasible strategy.
Establishing traps at both the exit and entrance not only served as a deterrent but also transformed into a practical and defensible natural barrier.
In case of an attack, the defenders could retreat to the mountains for concealment, turning the strategically chosen Three Flowers County, surrounded by mountains, into an advantageous location that was easy to defend and challenging to assail.
The rioters had deliberately selected Three Flowers County for these reasons.
While the Imperial Court remained unaware of the instigators behind the riot, Qin Silong had insight.
The leaders were remnants of the previous dynasty, concealing their true identities by posing as impoverished individuals without ess to food. Exploiting the season of scarcity, they agitated a group of impoverishedmoners whocked sufficient rice. Armed, they stormed the county office, captured the governor alive, looted the office, and raided the county granary.
Distributing the food to the needy, they capitalized on the chaos to employ the same tactic, piging wealthy families in the county, ransacking their granaries, and plundering their gold and silver..
Chapter 517 - 517: What Happened in the Dream
Chapter 517: What Happened in the Dream
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Initially, their actions were aimed at robbing the rich, with the distributed food genuinely benefiting the poor. Their rallying cry opposed collusion between government officials and merchants, harsh taxes, and the Imperial Court¡¯s exploitation of themon people. They sought to arm themselves and coerce the Imperial Court into negotiation, hoping for their demands to be met.
The movement gained traction, attracting more individuals who believed in their cause. However, what started as a fight for themoners¡¯ benefit soon devolved into chaos.
No longer content with robbing the wealthy or acquiring food, gold, and treasures, they began targeting even ordinary citizens. Those who didn¡¯t willingly surrender their possessions faced violence. After brutalizing resistant homeowners, they still seized their belongings.
This descent intowlessness didn¡¯t stop there. Spotting young and attractive girls, they captured them, distributing the captives among themselves. The men who contributed the most to the looting and violence were rewarded with these captured individuals, bing their wives or concubines¡ªsubjected to serve in every aspect of life.
In essence, the captured individuals were for their pleasure.
While some local thugs profited from this ruthlessness, many regretted the turn of events. Yet, it was toote to reverse the tide.
Increasing numbers of unfamiliar men infiltrated the small county. Trained akin to regr army soldiers, these individuals possessed martial skills and disyed ruthless behavior.
Resorting to violence, they brutally suppressed those who resisted or expressed regret about their actions, culminating in the simultaneous killing of dozens of dissenters. Unustomed to such ruthless tactics, the inhabitants of the small county were eventually coerced into submission.
The outsiders made veiled threats, insinuating that those unwilling to fight to the death might endanger their families. Faced with such stark ultimatums, people had no choice but to suppress their anger andply.
Their ruthless tactics extended to recruiting young, able-bodied men, forcefullypelling them to join their ranks. This strategy significantly augmented their numbers, surpassing ten thousand members, with several thousand having undergone formal training.
Establishing a training base in the county city and fortifying the original castle, they aimed to govern Three Flowers County as a small kingdom. In Qin Silong¡¯s recollections of his dream, Deputy General Wang, a middle-aged military officer under Old General Cheng,manded 10,000 regr troops and recruited an additional 5,000 temporary soldiers.
Arriving with a force of 15,000 soldiers, it took Qin Silong a month to seize Three Flowers County. During this period, he sought reinforcements from General Chen, securing an additional 3,000 soldiers.
The battles at the entrance of Three Flowers County resulted in the loss of around 5,000 soldiers over three engagements, predominantlyprising temporarily recruited recruits. The castle was assaulted five times, resulting in nearly 10,000 casualties, with countless bodies umting during the assaults.
Despite their efforts, a considerable number of well-trained individuals managed to escape to the mountains, sessfully evading pursuit, as the soldiers were too exhausted to give chase at the time..
Chapter 518 - 518: Rest
Chapter 518 - 518: Rest
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
At that time, Qin Silong embodied fearlessness.
Relying on a blend of luck and strength, he persevered until the very end. Post-castle attack, he relentlessly pursued the opposing party, ultimately seeding in capturing a vital individual alive.
His promotion from decurion to centurion ensued, a recognition bestowed upon him due to the pivotal capture. Despite this achievement, theck of connections and a penchant for ingratiating himself with superiors meant a two-year stagnation in his career progression.
The turning point urred during his venture to the bandit nest in the mountains. It was there that he personally dispatched the second-inmand, earning him the rank of chiliarch.
However, upon returning home to revel in the glory of his ancestors, he discovered that his entire family had been annihted by bandits.
All these events unfolded within the confines of a dream¡ªa reality that would never materialize again.
Upon interrogating the captive, the revtion of their true identities and motives surfaced.
These individuals pledged allegiance to a descendant of the previous dynasty, aspiring to overthrow the imperial court and reim their rightfulnd.
Their modus operandi involved sowing discord in the small county town, vehemently denouncing the imperial court and advocating for the overthrow of the supposedly inept emperor. They cared little for the coteral damage inflicted upon the popce.
Rather than establishing Three Flowers County as their base, their goal was to swiftly shift locations.
A sessful trial in one county would prompt them to replicate the chaos in surrounding areas. The overarching objective was to manipte public sentiment, broadcasting a narrative that painted the officials as oppressors, forcing the people into rebellion with no alternative.
They could also exploit this opportunity to thin out a portion of the soldiers.
When the timing was optimal, they would unfurl the banner of restoring the country and reim it in a decisive move.
Qin Silong was now aware that the Public House aimed to eliminate him and Su Ping. Despite leading the troops, the lion¡¯s share of military power rested in Deputy General Lin¡¯s hands.
His effective mobilization was limited to the 1,000 soldiers under hismand.
When the moment arrived, he would ostensibly lead the troops. Victory would credit Deputy General Lin, while defeat would squarely fall on Qin Silong¡¯s shoulders. Moreover, there was the looming threat of his own men turning against him at Deputy General Lin¡¯smand during an attack.
His current imperative was not to hastilyunch an assault. Instead, he needed to seize an opportunity to ndestinely eliminate Deputy General Lin.
Deputy General Lin raised no objection when Qin Silong ordered a period of rest.
However, as the rest extended into the next day without any sign of preparation for an attack, Deputy General Lin grew anxious. He summoned Qin Silong to his tent for a meeting.
¡°Why aren¡¯t you preparing to attack?¡± Deputy General Lin inquired impatiently.
Qin Silong replied, ¡°There¡¯s no rush. Beforeunching an attack, we must survey the terrain. I intend to deliberately dy our actions, keeping them in suspense and on guard.¡±
¡°I n to dispatch a team of elite soldiers every night to harass the entrance guards. After creating awareness, we¡¯ll promptly retreat.¡±
¡°This will ur three or four times each night. Once they lower their guard, we¡¯llunch a unified assault.
These words served as a deceptive ploy by Qin Silong. His actual battle strategy was far from what he conveyed to Deputy General Lin. That n wouldn¡¯t suffice.
As anticipated, Deputy General Lin sneered, ¡°So, how many days do you n to keep us idle?¡±
Qin Silong calmly responded, ¡°I intend to rest for eight to ten days to sow confusion among them.¡±
Deputy General Lin, enraged, mmed the table. ¡°Are you out of your mind?!¡±
¡°We have roughly 10,000 troops, and the daily grain consumption is no trivial matter.. Where do you expect to find enough food to sustain everyone for ten days?¡±
Chapter 519 - 519: Harassment
Chapter 519 - 519: Harassment
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Qin Silong feigned anger, retorting, ¡°Deputy General Lin, mind your manners!¡±
¡°While you may hold the title of deputy general, it¡¯s me whomands the troops in battle! Remember, your advanced age and less-than-sharp mind prevented the higher-ups from entrusting you with leadership. You¡¯re here to assist me!¡±
¡°It¡¯s called assistance, bluntly put, I¡¯m letting you freeload some battle merits.
Be thankful I¡¯ll throw some gold your way before I kick the bucket.¡±
¡°Understand, you¡¯re only a helper. I decide the battle n!¡±
¡°Unless you¡¯re ready to lead the troops yourself!¡±
¡°Otherwise, spare me your endless chatter.¡±
Deputy General Lin, infuriated, pointed at Qin Silong, struggling to articte his response.
¡°You¡ you¡ you!¡±
¡°You¡¯re just a temporarymander! How dare you speak to me like this!¡±
¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid I¡¯ll teach you a lesson in front of Old General Chen and make you suffer?¡±
Qin Silong sneered, ¡°Leading a few thousand soldiers against 15,000 in a fortified position. If we charge in recklessly, do you think I¡¯ll stand a chance?¡±
¡°I have to consider the safest approach.¡±
Deputy General Lin was momentarily stunned. Did Qin Silong already suspect their plot to eliminate him?
With this thought, Deputy General Lin dropped his aggressive stance. He needed to maintain a facade of cooperation with Qin Silong.
Softening his tone, he adopted a more conciliatory approach, saying,
¡°What nonsense are you spouting? Despite their numbers, they¡¯re just a disorganized bunch.¡±
¡°Even though we only have five thousand regr troops, they¡¯re well-trained. Each can handle ten on their own. We haven¡¯t even started, and you¡¯re already painting such a gloomy picture?¡±
Qin Silong, as if realizing something, sighed in relief. ¡°Forget it. I don¡¯t want to argue with you before the battle begins, as it may affect our morale.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve calcted that the rations I brought canst for about ten days.¡±
¡°We¡¯llunch the attack in eight days, striking the entrance in one swift move. Then, we¡¯ll storm the castle in a single assault. Once the castle is taken, food won¡¯t be a concern.¡±
¡°It¡¯s settled. I¡¯ll select the team for the harassment mission tonight.¡±
With those words, Qin Silong exited Deputy General Lin¡¯s tent.
Deputy General Lin, nearly fainting from anger, cared little about maintaining a facade of cooperation.
¡°Stop right there!¡±
¡°This is absurd!¡±
Yet, Qin Silong paid no heed and walked away without turning back.
Hmph! nning to harm them covertly while maintaining aposed exterior. Deputy General Lin vowed to expose this deceit.
Despite his advanced age, Qin Silong remained deviously cunning.
While following orders, it was an open secret in the military camp that Deputy General Lin had sided with the Public House.
Not only was he a coward, but he was also a self-serving opportunist willing to do anything for personal gain.
His position as deputy general wasn¡¯t earned through military achievements but through skillful ttery.
Once Qin Silong left Deputy General Lin¡¯s tent, he promptly returned to his main tent.
The troop harassment was a ruse designed to provoke Deputy General Lin. When pressured to initiate an attack by wielding his authority, Qin Silong nned to respond based on the unfolding circumstances. A figure like Deputy General Lin couldn¡¯t be allowed to live.
The most effective solution was to eliminate him.
That night, as darkness enveloped the surroundings, Qin Silong took charge, leading a squad of elite soldiers in a series of relentless harassments against the defending forces.
True to his word, they created disturbances four times throughout the night, returning to rest in the early hours of the morning.
The opposing defense grew increasingly disoriented.
They pondered over Qin Silong¡¯s motives, unsure of his intentions..
Chapter 520 - 520: Don’t Just Think Bad
Chapter 520 - 520: Don¡¯t Just Think Bad
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After a full morning of rest, Qin Silong received a confidential letter from Su Bin around noon. The second batch of 20 elite soldiers from the Dragon Phoenix Hall had arrived.
These were highly skilled fighters, primarily trained to safeguard important figures within the Dragon Phoenix Hall as secret guards. asionally, they undertook missions, including assassinations, to protect individuals unaffiliated with the Dragon Phoenix Hall. Of course, their services came at a cost.
However, since the Dragon Phoenix Hall suffered significant setbacks, they had refrained from taking on external missions.
Su Bin didn¡¯t disclose his identity to Qin Silong, merely mentioning that he and his wife were acquainted with members of the Dragon Phoenix Hall. All dealings, including the acquisition of confidential information, were transactions settled with silver.
Out of consideration for the bigger picture, Qin Zhenzhen kept Fourth Brother Su Bin¡¯s secret.
Yet, Qin Silong wasn¡¯t oblivious. He had long suspected that Su Bin harbored a hidden agenda.
From the letter, Qin Silong also received uplifting news¡ªhis little sister was expecting.
He chuckled to himself; he was going to be an uncle!
However, he decided to keep the good news to himself, maintaining a certain distance. Despite being in the same military camp, they served in different units.
The camp was divided into four subordinates¡ªnorth, south, east, and west¡ªeach under themand of a minor general. General Chen, the overallmander, oversaw these four generals, and the entire military camp fell under the jurisdiction of the old general.
Qin Silong hailed from the east, whereas Su Ping was stationed in the west as a centurion under Captain Yang.
Captain Yang, incidentally, served under Deputy General Lin.
News of the discord between Deputy General Lin and Qin Silong had permeated throughout the army. Deputy General Lin disapproved of Qin Silong¡¯s dy tactics, leading to a heated altercation within the military tent. Deputy General Lin nearly sumbed to the intensity of Qin Silong¡¯s presence, but it failed to deter Qin Silong¡¯s course of action.
Qin Silong insisted that unless Deputy General Lin took charge in his stead, he wouldn¡¯t heed hismands.
This issue sparked fervent discussions in private.
¡°I can¡¯t fathom the higher-ups¡¯ reasoning. Throughout history, an army can¡¯t function with two leaders.¡¯
¡°While Qin holds the title ofmander-in-chief, his authority extends only to the thousand soldiers under him and those hastily recruited. Most of the military power still rests with Deputy General Lin.¡±
¡°The animosity between them is truly fatal.¡±
¡°Qin should be unwilling to ept this. Since he¡¯s been promoted to a major general, he should be granted real authority, right?¡±
¡°But there¡¯s still the need to have Deputy General Lin apany him.¡±
¡°I empathize with Qin¡¯s grievances, but these are distinct matters. War is war, and battle spirit is crucial. We can¡¯t afford to dy opportunities over personal grudges.¡±
¡°It¡¯s not feasible to handle it like a child.¡¯
The majority of the men in the military camp were passionate about the matter, expressing disagreement with Qin Silong¡¯s approach. Su Ping shared these sentiments.
Various acquaintances attempted to counsel Qin Silong, but his subordinates blocked all attempts, iming, ¡°The general is not avable.¡±
Even those who knew about his familial ties with Qin Silong and sought to meet with him faced a simr response. Surprisingly, Su Ping remainedposed and spoke in defense of Qin Silong.
¡°The fact that Qin ascended to the rank of majormander suggests he possesses something extraordinary. Maybe his approach to warfare is indeed the right one.¡±
¡°Rather than assuming the worst, let¡¯s consider the possibility of the best oue..¡±
Chapter 521 - 521: Both Sides Taking A Step Back
Chapter 521 - 521: Both Sides Taking A Step Back
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong continued to chart his own course, maintaining the army camp in the mountains for four days without any intention tounch an attack.
However, the nightly harassment of the enemy persisted.
Deputy General Lin, unable tomand Qin Silong, found himself in a bind. Their official roles were rtively minor, and there was no formal designation of amander¡¯s authority. Although, before departure, it wasn¡¯t explicitly stated that Deputy General Lin heldmand, on the surface, it was expected that he should heed Qin Silong.
All Deputy General Lin could do was expedite the situation report.
The round trip took four to five days.
On the fifth day, Deputy General Lin received orders, instructing him to personally lead the troops and initiate the first attack in front of everyone. Of course, Deputy General Lin could put on a show. During the assault, he could arrange for trustworthy individuals to protect him.
Once Deputy General Lin took the lead, it would be impossible for Qin Silong not to follow suit in the subsequent rounds.
Simultaneously, Qin Silong received orders from higher-ups to attack Three
Flower County within three days.
There was no time to waste.
The attack wouldmence tomorrow at thetest.
Qin Silong had meticulously prepared his battle n. He presented it to Deputy General Lin, discussing the intricacies of the battle with the other four chiliarchs.
The n outlined on the paper was explicit: tomorrow morning, Qin Silong intended to orchestrate a feigned attack with a portion of his forces. In reality, it would be a form of harassment to lull the enemy into a false sense of security, promptly withdrawing and repeating the process multiple times. The same strategy was set for the afternoon, with a genuine all-out assault nned for the night.
However, Deputy General Lin opposed this approach. He advocated for an immediate full-scale attack tomorrow morning, dismissing any notion of further strategic posturing. The other four chiliarchs sided with Deputy General Lin, emphasizing the urgency of the situation with only three days remaining. Failure tounch a timely attack could lead to consequences under militaryw, leaving no room for further dy.
Qin Silong expressed his concern, stating, ¡°This will disrupt my battle n.¡±
He argued that the initial morning feigned attacks served to mislead the enemy, creating a tactical advantage during the nighttime assault.
Throughout the days of harassing the enemy, Qin Silong had meticulously selected 50 elite Razor Sharp Squads. Each member possessed a detailed topographic map, enabling them to coordinate with the blueprint and memorize the surrounding terrain during daylight hours.
A narrow, stealthy path, suitable for only one person, was identified to bypass the opponent¡¯s defenses and infiltrate the enemy¡¯s rear. These elite squads would preposition themselves on the mountain, ready to spring into action when the general attack horn sounded.
The synchronized attack on the entrance from both inside and outside would be executed by these 50 operatives. Their movements would be concealed effectively during the night, reducing the risk of premature detection by the enemy.
This crucial information, however, remained known only to Qin Silong. The potential for intentional leaks was a significant concern, prompting him to keep the details guarded.
Qin Silong harbored a suspicion that the higher-ups did not desire his victory in the war. The directive to bring 5,000 ordinary soldiers seemed more like a sacrificial move.
Anticipating dissent from Deputy General Lin and the others, Qin Silong¡¯s suspicions proved valid.
As expected, Deputy General Lin voiced his concerns, stating, ¡°We¡¯re unfamiliar with the terrain. Engaging in a night battle is akin to operating blindly. Our chances of sess are undoubtedly low.¡±
The other four chiliarchs aligned themselves with Deputy General Lin¡¯s perspective.
Qin Silong feigned helplessness and offered apromise, saying, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s initiate daytime attacks, but on a smaller scale. The main offensive still needs to be executed at night.¡±
Despite this concession, Deputy General Lin and the others remained unsatisfied.
¡°No, weakness in the initial attack is uneptable! It will detrimentally impact our morale. We¡¯ll appear feeble if we perceive the enemy as formidable.¡± This time, Qin Silong stood firm.
¡°All is fair in war. Regardless, I believe our chances of sess are higher if weunch the attack at night!¡±
In the end, apromise emerged.
Qin Silong decided tomence the first attack tomorrow morning. Depending on the resistance encountered, he would either capitalize on the momentum and swiftly assault the entrance or, in the face of formidable opposition, strategically withdraw to regroup. The nighttime hours would witness the mobilization of all forces for aprehensive, general attack..
Chapter 522 - 522: Entering the Pit
Chapter 522 - 522: Entering the Pit
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Deputy General Lin was well aware of the higher-ups¡¯ hidden agenda¡ªthey aimed to eliminate Su Ping and Qin Silong.
Qin Silong¡¯s temporary promotion to major general was a calcted move to boost his confidence and arrogance. Despite being assigned 10,000 troops, in reality, only 5,000 werebat-ready. The objective was to set Qin Silong against a rebellious organization boasting 15,000 members.
Though holding a higher official position as deputy general, Deputy General Lin¡¯s age and physical limitations made it challenging to navigate mountainous terrain and lead troops into battle. His primary purpose in participating was to undermine others while taking advantage of the potential for battle achievements.
Deputy General Lin hoped Qin Silong would be fortunate enough to breach the entrance and castle, securing military credits. Then, during an unguarded moment, he nned to arrange for someone to eliminate Qin Silong and Su Ping.
The condition for sess was that Qin Silong had to lead the initial attack during the general assault. If any resistance was encountered, Deputy General Lin intended to withdraw his forces, using the enemy to eliminate Qin Silong. Afterward, he would lead his troops back to camp, awaiting reinforcements.
The higher-ups assured that reinforcements would be dispatched when needed, with the sheer numerical superiority ensuring victory.
Eager toplete the mission and swiftly return to the military camp with his military achievements, Deputy General Lin was unwilling to endure further dys. Witnessing Qin Silong¡¯s agreement to his proposal, he felt a surge of satisfaction as he delved into the details of Qin Silong¡¯s battle n and personnel arrangements.
Tomorrow morning, Chiliarch Wang would lead the feint attack,manding 1,000 regr troops and 1,000 temporary troops. All four chiliarchs had roles in the feint, with Qin Silong reserving his appearance for the crucial night during the general attack.
Qin Silong¡¯s n was to entice Deputy General Lin into a trap he had set.
Predictably, Deputy General Lin proposed, ¡°As the leader, you should lead the troops in the initial attack to effectively boost morale.¡±
Qin Silong responded, ¡°I understand the logic. Initially, I nned to lead the charge during the primary attack. Wasn¡¯t it your suggestion to advance the main attack time?¡±
Deputy General Lin nodded, ¡°Exactly! The battle n has changed, necessitating adjustments to the personnel arrangements.¡±
Qin Silong disagreed, stating, ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s necessary. I¡¯ll stay behind. If we encounter strong resistance in the morning, we¡¯ll intensify efforts at night.¡±
Deputy General Lin¡¯s expression soured immediately. ¡°You want to stay at the back? Are you afraid of danger?¡±
Qin Silong replied seriously, ¡°Since donning this military uniform, I¡¯ve long disregarded life and death. It¡¯s not that I fear death; I¡¯m considering the bigger picture.¡±
Deputy General Lin sneered, ¡°If you¡¯re afraid of death, admit it! No need to make it sound so grand!¡±
Qin Silong retorted angrily, ¡°Deputy General Lin, it¡¯s not for you to decide whether I fear death or not. If I did, I wouldn¡¯t have achieved military distinctions and risen to the rank of chiliarch in such a short time.
Pointedly, Qin Silong remarked, ¡°Unlike you, who secured the position of deputy general without any military achievements. Rumor has it you¡¯re the one most afraid of death!¡±
Qin Silong knew of an instance on the battlefield when Deputy General Lin was reportedly so frightened that he urinated in his pants. However, he refrained from mentioning it, biding his time for Deputy General Lin to unwittingly fall into his trap.
Enraged, Deputy General Lin vehemently denied, ¡°Nonsense! Who said I¡¯m afraid of death?¡±
¡°I¡¯ve decided to lead the charge. You¡¯ll follow closely behind.. This will definitely boost our morale and guarantee that we can attack in one go!¡±
Chapter 523 - 523: First Attack
Chapter 523 - 523: First Attack
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong promptly responded, ¡°If that¡¯s your decision, I¡¯llply, Deputy
General Lin. If you lead, I¡¯ll certainly follow closely behind!¡±
His demeanor suggested he was enjoying the spectacle, silently conveying,
¡°Actions speak louder than words!¡±
The four chiliarchs quickly intervened, advising Deputy General Lin, ¡°Don¡¯t act hastily. Considering your age, charging into the front line isn¡¯t suitable for you.¡±
Qin Silong yfully chimed in, ¡°Exactly. If anything goes wrong, I won¡¯t be able to take responsibility!¡±
He aimed to provoke Deputy General Lin, who responded by patting his chest assertively, ¡°No worries. I¡¯ll show you what it means to be strong despite my age!¡±
Despite his apparent resolve, Deputy General Lin had no intention of genuinely charging into battle. This was merely a theatrical performance.
He passionately dered, ¡°There¡¯s no need for both generals to fight. I¡¯ll lead the way! If the first attack fails, Qin will lead in the second round!¡±
Deputy General Lin had already devised his n. He intended to lead the charge alongside Captain Yang, with a hundred elite soldiers at the forefront. Meanwhile, hidden sharpshooters would be strategically ced on the mountain. At a signal from Deputy General Lin, the sharpshooters would eliminate him, making it appear as though he had been shot from the enemy camp. His demise would provide an opportunity to execute a tactical retreat.
Once Qin Silong initiated the attack, Deputy General Lin nned to replicate the same strategy and eliminate him in a simr manner. This way, he aimed to aplish his mission with precision.
Qin Silong feigned objection, stating that he had spoken in the heat of the moment and couldn¡¯t let an elderly person charge into the front lines. The four chiliarchs joined in the persuasion, but Deputy General Lin remained adamant, insisting on taking the lead.
Qin Silong adopted a serious tone, stating, ¡°If Deputy General Lin is determined to lead, I request you to write a voluntary letter. In case of any mishaps, I won¡¯t bear the responsibility.¡±
The acknowledgment among those present was clear: as a figure associated with the higher-ups, if Deputy General Lin were to meet an unfortunate fate, the responsibility would be challenging for others to shoulder.
Confident that nothing untoward would ur, Deputy General Linplied and indeed wrote the voluntary letter.
The next morning, everything was set. Deputy General Lin, donning a neat uniform, led a thousand regr troops and a thousand temporary soldiers in preparation for the impending attack.
Despite his temporary promotion to chiliarch, the majority of his troops were fresh recruits, with only the original one hundred remaining from his previousmand. Gazing at the unruly assembly, Deputy General Lin couldn¡¯t help but feel a headache. If he had foreseen this predicament, he might have preferred retaining his centurion rank. In his view, they were not qualified to engage in strategic discussions with figures like Qin Silong and the others.
Several others, also promoted to temporary chiliarchs, shared in his predicament, receiving simr treatment.
However, Deputy General Lin held a unique position among the temporary chiliarchs. He had been rmended by Chiliarch Yang to Deputy General Lin, earning praises for his bravery,bat skills, resourcefulness, and a perceived aura of victory. Believing he had the potential to secure victory as the vanguard, Deputy General Lin feigned delight and even gifted him a quality saber. Despite his excitement, he recognized that gaining recognition from the general could potentially lead to his promotion.
As the war drums resonated, they advanced toward the entrance with a hundred elite soldiers bearing iron shields. Deputy General Lin followed suit with a dozen personal guards on horseback, banners fluttering around him.
However, their advance met staunch resistance from the enemy even before reaching the entrance..
Chapter 524 - 524: Protecting Oneself
Chapter 524 - 524: Protecting Oneself
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
They had no choice but to crouch on the ground and advance slowly. As they drew closer, several mechanisms were triggered, causingrge rocks with sharp edges to roll down the mountain.
¡°Trap! Fall back!¡±
Reacting swiftly, they retreated just in time. However, some were slower, and several were hit by the rocks, resulting in four or five casualties.
The previous night, Qin Silong had finally caught up with Deputy General Lin, cautioning him, ¡°You need to be extremely careful tomorrow. ording to the intelligence I¡¯ve gathered, the entrance is strategically fortified and challenging to breach. There are traps along the route.¡±
¡°The closer we get to the entrance, the more borate the traps be. The initial traps involve rocks and wood rolling down from the mountain¡¯s peak.
Additionally, there are pitfalls and trip ropes designed to ensnare individuals.¡±
¡°Although these mechanisms might be ineffective after their first use, they have numerous variations that are difficult to predict. The enemy¡¯s camp also employs sharp arrows.¡±
¡°The most formidable trap is positioned right above the entrance, where they are preparing oil drums. In the event of arge-scale attack, they would pour the oil down and ignite the entrance with thrown torches, engulfing it in mes.
¡°If you persist with the attack this time, there¡¯s a high likelihood of being incinerated by everyone.¡±
These were firsthand ounts from Qin Silong¡¯s dreams, witnessing thousands of individuals sumbing to the fiery inferno. Subsequently, they resorted to using human wave tactics to breach the entrance.
Taking a deep breath, he emphasized, ¡°Therefore, this time, continue feigning an attack. When you hear the drums, retreat swiftly. Disregard Deputy General Lin¡¯smands!¡±
¡°At night, I¡¯ll dispatch someone to the cliff at the entrance to assess if we can eliminate the individuals above first. Remember my instructions!¡±
Su Ping nodded in affirmation. ¡°I¡¯ll follow yourmands!¡±
Fully aware of Deputy General Lin¡¯s character, Su Ping harbored a deep disdain for individuals of his ilk. Nevertheless, he took satisfaction in being rmended by Chiliarch Yang.
Unbeknownst to him, Chiliarch Yang was affiliated with the Public House. Although he harbored reservations about eliminating someone like Su Ping, he dared not defy the orders from higher-ups. It was a task he had to carry out regardless.
Qin Silong chose to keep this information from Su Ping. Regardless, he knew
Deputy General Lin¡¯s n like the back of his hand. The members of the Dragon Phoenix Hall would preemptively neutralize the threat, ultimately recing Deputy General Lin with one of their own. At that point, Deputy General Lin would meet his demise.
Witnessing four or five casualties, Qin Silong couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang in his heart. These subordinates were like brothers to him, and each loss was deeply regrettable. However, war, by its very nature, was merciless. Despite Qin Silong¡¯s detailed warnings and multiple reminders to his subordinates, casualties remained inevitable.
The two injured soldiers, while not directly killed by the rocks, found themselves immobilized, leaving them susceptible to iing arrows. Rescue attempts were futile, and Su Ping¡¯s eyes reddened. Though his voice was hoarse, he conveyed clear instructions.
¡°Halt and prioritize your safety!¡±
¡°Chiliarch Su, advance!¡± Deputy General Lin bellowed from behind as he observed Su Pinging to a standstill.
Ignoring Deputy General Lin¡¯smands, Su Ping reiterated to his subordinates, ¡°Cease advancing and defend yourselves!¡±
Arrows kept shooting over, and rocks that were caught off guard fell from the sky. They only had a thin iron shield that blocked their chests, heads, upper bodies, and lower bodies..
Chapter 525 - 525: Are You Silly?
Chapter 525 - 525: Are You Silly?
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ping hesitated when Deputy General Lin scolded him for the second time. ¡°Move forward slowly. Protect yourself!¡± He recalled Qin Silong¡¯s advice, realizing that this time, a frontal assault was unnecessary. He opted to wait for the signal to retreat, banking on the sound of the drums.
Despite understanding the strategy, Su Ping had to heed Deputy General Lin¡¯s orders. Advancing cautiously was already pushing his limits. The front line, however, bore the brunt of the assault, with rocks and arrows iming the lives of hundreds and injuring nearly a hundred more¡ªeach one a living being.
Deputy General Lin, shielded by over a dozen guards, remained unscathed but expressed dissatisfaction with Su Ping¡¯s performance. He demanded, ¡°Chiliarch
Su! Stand up and lead the charge! Disobeying military orders will result in execution!¡±
Knowing that standing up made him an easier target for the arranged assants, Su Ping reluctantly rose. Deputy General Lin, sneering, signaled the charge with a secret code, expecting his men to eliminate Su Ping.
To his surprise, the arrow aimed for him. Panicking, he sought protection behind his guards, shouting, ¡°Quick, protect me¡¡± Yet, before Deputy General Lin could finish, the arrow struck his chest, and he tumbled to the ground.
The personal guards rushed to save him, but arrows from the enemy camp imed nearly half of them. Despite the casualties, they managed to carry the injured Deputy General Lin onto a horse.
Seizing the opportunity, Qin Silong ordered the drums to beat, signaling a retreat.
Qin Silong breathed a sigh of relief, well aware that Deputy General Lin intended to seize this opportunity to eliminate him. Caught between enemies in front and conspirators behind, he faced a double danger.
Despite the peril, Qin Silong resolved not to be a coward. Bound by the need to withhold crucial information, he opted to issue a warning in advance.
Fortunately, he emerged unscathed, but Deputy General Lin wasn¡¯t as fortunate.
The arrow had struck with lethal precision, piercing Deputy General Lin¡¯s heart. Initially breathing after being rescued, he soon ceased to do so.
Chiliarch Yang, overwhelmed with grief, pointed usingly at Qin Silong, crying, ¡°You killed Deputy General Lin! You¡¯ll get what you deserve!¡±
Remainingposed, Qin Silong responded, ¡°Chiliarch Yang, choose your words carefully! Death on the battlefield is amon urrence. I advised Deputy General Lin against entering the fray, but he disregarded my counsel, even penning a voluntary letter. How can I be med for his demise?¡±
Chiliarch Yang questioned the circumstances, ¡°Deputy General Lin was positioned behind with personal guards shielding him. How did the arrows still find him?¡±
Suspecting Deputy General Lin¡¯s involvement, Chiliarch Yang pondered why the n went awry. It seemed unlikely that the sharpshooter shot the wrong person, given Deputy General Lin¡¯s distinct position on horseback.
The prevailing theory was that Qin Silong had unraveled their plot, seizing the chance to shoot Deputy General Lin and feigning their deaths. The puzzle persisted¡ªhow did Qin Silong discover their n?
Chiliarch Yang¡¯s thoughts were in turmoil. Faced with the unfulfilled mission Deputy General Lin left behind, he contemted whether Qin Silong had indeed uncovered their scheme, and if so, he could be the next target.
In an attempt to shift me, Chiliarch Yang demanded answers from Qin
Silong, ¡°How did you know about our n?¡±
Qin Silong regarded Chiliarch Yang with a bemused expression. ¡°You still want to ask me that? Are you truly that foolish?¡±
¡°Haven¡¯t you heard? Target the horse first, capture the leader first!¡±
¡°In a sh of two armies, it¡¯s not umon for adversaries to aim for themander and eliminate them with precision. Deputy General Lin¡¯s misfortune lies in his luck. Despite the substantial protection from his personal guards, he still fell victim to a well-aimed shot..¡±
Chapter 526 - 526: Disobeying Military Orders
Chapter 526: Disobeying Military Orders
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
With Deputy General Lin¡¯s demise, a somber mood engulfed the soldiers, causing a pause in the assault on the entrance. The belief that the general would perish before achieving sess cast a foreboding shadow over the situation.
Adding to the disheartenment, many soldiers recognized the daunting challenge of attacking the entrance. The prospect of being transferred to the vanguard now seemed synonymous with facing certain death.
Fortunately, the secret of the oil and fire had been kept, sparing them from additional panic.
Chiliarch Yang dispatched individuals to the nearby mountains in search of evidence indicating the source of the fatal arrow. Establishing culpability for the incident could incriminate Qin Silong and provide an exnation to higher authorities. Unfortunately, their efforts yielded no results¡ªthe sharpshooters had vanished without a trace.
Doubt crept into Chiliarch Yang¡¯s mind as he questioned whether the mysterious marksmen had indeed struck someone or if they had vanished out of fear.
Unaware that the two individuals were now under the custody of the Dragon Phoenix Hall, Chiliarch Yang,cking solid evidence, directed his frustration towards Su Ping. He used Su Ping of fearing death and insubordination, iming that Su Ping¡¯s unauthorized halt had led to Deputy General Lin¡¯s failure to evade the fatal arrows.
Demanding retribution, he dered, ¡°He should be executed! His head should serve as homage to Deputy General Lin¡¯s memory!¡±
Simultaneously, he ordered strict vignce across the three armies, proiming merciless consequences for any further instances of cowardice or insubordination.
Su Ping was Chiliarch Yang¡¯s subordinate. He thought he had the right to punish Su Ping.
Su Ping didn¡¯t say anything. He couldn¡¯t understand how Deputy General Lin, who was protected by so many people, was killed by the arrows.
Was he really wrong to listen to Qin Silong¡¯s orders in private?
Hearing that Chiliarch Yang was going to put him to death, he wasn¡¯t too surprised.
If it was really because he disobeyed the military order that led to Deputy General Lin¡¯s death, he was willing to ept punishment.
Just as he was about to ept his punishment, Qin Silong showed up.
¡°Chiliarch Yang, you¡¯re too presumptuous!¡±
¡°What right do you have to execute a man of your rank?¡±
Chiliarch Yang sneered. ¡°He¡¯s just a temporary chiliarch. In my eyes, he¡¯s still my centurion!¡±
¡°He disobeyed orders. Why can¡¯t I execute him?¡±
Qin Silong waved his hand, and his guards immediately stepped forward, trying to free him.
Chiliarch Yang¡¯s people didn¡¯t allow it, but they were no match for him. After one or two moves, they were knocked to the ground and their restraints were removed.
The surrounding soldiers were left in stunned silence. While aware of Qin Silong¡¯s formidable martial prowess, they were taken aback by the sheer skill of his personal guards, previously underestimated. The guards effortlessly subdued Chiliarch Yang, showcasing a level of expertise that surprised the onlookers.
Qin Silong addressed the bewildered crowd, rifying Su Ping¡¯s actions, ¡°He didn¡¯t disobey the order! I instructed him that if the morning resistance wasn¡¯t too severe, we could press on. If it proved too challenging, we were to feint.¡±
He continued, ¡°Last night, Deputy General Lin and I had thoroughly discussed this strategy with the other four chiliarchs. Faced with overwhelming resistance in the morning attack, we had just begun advancing, yet we¡¯d already lost over a hundred soldiers. In such circumstances, halting and advancing slowly was the wisest choice!¡±
¡°He¡¯s not wrong,¡± Qin Silong affirmed.
Chiliarch Yang retorted loudly, ¡°What a joke! You¡¯ve only lost a hundred people, and you im it¡¯s too much resistance? You¡¯ve never experienced a real battlefield! Military orders are absolute. Even if eleven thousand people die, you still have to charge forward!¡±
Qin Silong met Yang¡¯s raised voice with a cold gaze, stating firmly, ¡°Not all battlefields are the same! Victory isn¡¯t guaranteed by blindly charging forward!¡±
Chapter 527 - 527: Military Law
Chapter 527: Military Law
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Chiliarch Yang spat out hatefully, ¡°You don¡¯t have to reason with me here! The battle hasn¡¯t even started, and themander has already died. Our morale has also decreased by more than half. Let¡¯s see how you can continue this battle! ¡±
Qin Silong regarded Chiliarch Yang with a yful expression, countering, ¡°Do you truly believe this battle can¡¯t proceed without Deputy General Lin? Are you attempting to spread the notion that the war is now unwinnable? Is it your goal to sow fear and shatter our morale right on the battlefield?¡±
With each usation, Chiliarch Yang¡¯s tone softened, ¡°I don¡¯t mean that. I¡¯m just reminding you. How are you going to answer to the higher-ups when Deputy General Lin is dead?¡±
Chiliarch Yang subtly hinted that Qin Silong needed a scapegoat, and he had conveniently found one ¡ª himself.
Understanding the insinuation, Qin Silong exposed Chiliarch Yang¡¯s intentions, ¡°Are you suggesting that, with Deputy General Lin¡¯s demise, we need a scapegoat to deflect me and shield ourselves from repercussions?¡±
Chiliarch Yang was taken aback, not anticipating Qin Silong¡¯s direct revtion, and the surrounding soldiers shared in the shock.
Qin Silong continued with a hint of excitement, ¡°You imply that Deputy General Lin¡¯s status demands a scapegoat when he falls in battle. However, ordinary soldiers with lower statuses are expendable. Is that the premise?¡± Reluctant to acknowledge his intentions, Chiliarch Yang remained silent.
Qin Silong pressed on, growing more impassioned, ¡°War is ruthless, and the de discriminates against no one. Each one of us might sacrifice our lives for our country. Deputy General Lin perished in the conflict, and the true culprits are the insurgents within, not an innocent scapegoat among our ranks!¡±
¡°As a chiliarch, instead of inspiring the soldiers to turn their grief into strength, youunched an assault on the entrance and spread negative, depressingments. What kind of leadership is this?¡±
Confronted by Qin Silong¡¯s intense gaze, Chiliarch Yang started to feel a growing sense of fear.
¡°I¡¯m not spreading inappropriate rumors¡¡±
Qin Silong shouted, ¡°You can¡¯t deny it! You clearly said it just now. Let¡¯s see how you can continue this battle!¡±
¡°You¡¯re attempting to incite everyone to desert! ¡±
¡°I didn¡¯t¡ª
Chiliarch Yang sensed something amiss in Qin Silong¡¯s gaze. He nced around and realized that Qin Silong¡¯s personal guards had encircled him from all directions.
A sudden realization struck him. What did Qin Silong intend to do?
Regrettably, Chiliarch Yang¡¯s understanding came toote.
Indeed, Qin Silong had long harbored the desire to eliminate him.
Killing Chiliarch Yang served multiple purposes:
Firstly, it would serve as a warning to the others, ensuringpliance from
the remaining three chiliarchs.
Secondly, it would reassure the soldiers that, on the battlefield, the life of a deputy general was no more valuable than that of an ordinary soldier. There would be no preferential treatment.
Chiliarch Yang, who had dared to propose finding a scapegoat for Deputy General Lin¡¯s death, had to be dealt with!
Thirdly, as the main general, Qin Silong acknowledged the value of every soldier¡¯s life. In the face of overwhelming resistance, he would consider alternative strategies.
Fourthly, Chiliarch Yang must pay for his role in aiding Deputy General Lin¡¯s treacherous ns.
Finally realizing the lethal intent in Qin Silong¡¯s eyes, Chiliarch Yang sought to escape, but it was toote.
Qin Silong decisivelymanded, ¡°Seize Chiliarch Yang, who harbors ulterior motives, and administer militaryw punishment!¡±
Chiliarch Yang, unable to escape or resist, was forcibly subdued to the ground by two men.
Chiliarch Yang remained defiant. ¡°Qin Silong, what do you intend to do with
In the military, there were two distinct forms of punishment: receiving thirtyshes or facing a death sentence.
Desperately, he clung to the possibility of the former.
In a flicker of hope, Chiliarch Yang thought, ¡°Where there¡¯s life, there¡¯s hope!¡±
Yet, Qin Silong offered him no reprieve, stating coldly, ¡°There¡¯s only one way to address militaryw on the battlefield!¡±
Chapter 528 - 528: Seeking Hope Again
Chapter 528: Seeking Hope Again
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
He was signaling to Chiliarch Yang that Qin Silong had condemned him to death.
¡°Qin Silong, how dare you!¡±
Despite his extreme fluster, Chiliarch Yang maintained a defiant tone, believing he had a powerful supporter.
Qin Silong, however, brandished a sharp knife. ¡°Do you think I dare?¡±
His words left no room for doubt. There was nothing he wouldn¡¯t dare to do.
Just as the other three chiliarchs were poised to intercede, Qin Silong gave them a cold nce. ¡°It¡¯s futile no matter who pleads!¡±
¡°You all witnessed it. He¡¯s undermining us. This battle is now deemed unwinnable!¡±
¡°If we spare such an individual, how can we rejuvenate our morale?¡±
With a nod, he signaled the two men to lift Chiliarch Yang. Swiftly, Qin Silong severed Chiliarch Yang¡¯s carotid artery with lightning speed.
Chiliarch Yang, in his desperate state, didn¡¯t even have time to scream before sumbing to death.
The two menid Chiliarch Yang on the ground.
A profound silence enveloped the surrounding soldiers.
They now grasped the harsh reality of this battle.
Initially brimming with confidence, they perceived themselves as a disciplined army facing a disorganized adversary. Their absolute advantage had been reinforced by assurances from higher-ups, promising promotions for those who performed well.
However, before reaching the entrance of Three Flowers County, hushed conversations had already begun among the soldiers.
In Three Flowers County, a formidable force of over 15,000 armed troops awaited. The odds were stark¡ªonly 5,000 of them were regr troops, and the prospects of survival seemed grim.
Whispers circted about numerous traps at the county entrance, making it a fortress easy to defend but challenging to assail. Those contemting an assault were warned that returning might be an unattainable feat.
Spection also veered toward a conspiracy against Qin Silong and Su Ping. As the second brother of Primus Su and Qin Silong¡¯s brother-inw, they were seemingly implicated by Primus Su¡¯s sh with the Public House, leading to his demotion to Shanglin Prefecture. Offending the Public House meant inevitable doom for Primus Su¡¯s family, making the killing of Qin Silong and Su Ping the initial steps in this sinister plot.
With Qin Silong refraining from ordering an immediate attack, rumors gained traction, suggesting that the tales of traps were valid. Some presumed Qin Silong¡¯s reluctance to attack stemmed from a desire to prolong everyone¡¯s lives or because he was strategizing.
During the initial assault, Su Ping was chosen as the vanguard, marking him as the primary target. Many knew that Deputy General Lin and Chiliarch Yang were affiliated with Old General Cheng and the Public House. Following Deputy General Lin¡¯s demise, Chiliarch Yang sought to me Su Ping, intending to make him a scapegoat.
However, Qin Silong, disying his dominance, swiftly dispatched Chiliarch Yang. Witnessing the deadly confrontation confirmed the unsettling rumors. As soldiers grappled with the knowledge that disobedience to military orders could lead to inevitable death in the battles against Qin and Chiliarch Su, their spirits waned, and happiness seemed elusive.
However, Qin Silong¡¯s ensuing words injected a renewed sense of hope among the soldiers.
¡°I¡¯m aware that in recent days, rumors have been circting within our ranks, suggesting that our 5,000 regr troops are destined for defeat against their
15,000 armed forces.¡±
¡°Some even im this is a conspiracy against me and Chiliarch Su. They say that Old General Chen views us as a threat and seeks to exploit this situation to eliminate Chiliarch Su and me.¡±
¡°Let me make this unequivocally clear¡ªthese are all baseless rumors!¡± ¡°There¡¯s no factual basis to these ims!¡±
¡°Despite our numerical disadvantage with only 5,000 regr troops, remember, these are not just any troops. These are elite forces meticulously trained forbat.¡¯
¡°Many among them can stand against ten opponents single-handedly, and at the very least, they can handle two with ease..¡±
Chapter 529 - 529: Spare Your Lives
Chapter 529: Spare Your Lives
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Despite the entrance being easy to defend and challenging to attack, with numerous traps, there¡¯s no need for excessive concern.¡±
¡°The reason for dying the assault isn¡¯t rooted in fear of death, as the rumors suggest, nor does it reflect ack of confidence in victory. Instead, it¡¯s a strategic decision aimed at minimizing casualties¡ªI want each one of you to return alive!¡±
Qin Silong¡¯s final words resonated deeply with the ordinary soldiers.
They had witnessed Qin Silong¡¯smitment during the morning¡¯s initial attack when he ordered a retreat after losing over a hundred soldiers. His actions demonstrated genuine care for the troops, proving his sincerity.
He stood apart from officials who treated the lives of ordinary soldiers callously, emphasizing that the life of a deputy general held equal value to that of an ordinary soldier.
Seeing the impact of his words, Qin Silong pressed on, ¡°Now, I¡¯ve identified the most effective approach to prevail in this battle.¡±
¡°Therefore, victory is assured!¡±
Once again, Qin Silong¡¯s words stirred the collective spirit. While some may still harbor suspicions about his intentions, they rallied together, shouting in unison:
¡°We will definitely win!¡±
¡°We will definitely win!¡±
Qin Silong gestured for silence, addressing them with a reassuring tone, ¡°The general attack is scheduled for tonight. After lunch, take the opportunity to rest. Rejuvenate, ande to the general attack in your best condition!¡±
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the dinner horn echoed through the camp.
With darkness settling in after the meal, all the soldiers stood prepared.
Before the imminent battle, Qin Silong addressed his troops once more.
¡°Tonight¡¯s dinner was kept simple for a reason. I didn¡¯t want you all to eat too much; I want you to travel light. Save the good wine and food for a celebration after we win, alright?¡±
Qin Silong¡¯s soldiers, taking the lead, responded, ¡°Alright!¡±
The others echoed, ¡°Alright!¡±
He continued, ¡°We¡¯re fully prepared for this general attack! Over the past few days, we¡¯ve deciphered the critical mechanisms they¡¯ve set up. During the attack, we¡¯ll send forces to dismantle those mechanisms and infiltrate the enemy ranks to coordinate from within. With our preparations, we stand a high chance of victory!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t doubt my words; I have no reason to deceive you. The attack willmence shortly, and I¡¯ll personally lead as the vanguard!¡±
Qin Silong¡¯smitment in leading the charge made his sincerity undeniable. Even if there were doubts about his words, the fact that he was willing to take the lead erased any lingering skepticism.
In the face of a potential retreat, the stakes were clear¡ªdesertion was a dead end. Monitoring them closely were individuals ready to enforce consequences with no mercy for any escape attempts.
Thus, the soldiers chose to believe Qin Silong¡¯s words.
The attack horn resounded, and Qin Silong, true to his word, led 4,000 regr troops in the vanguard charge. The 5,000 temporarily recruited soldiers followed, arranged at the rear. The remaining 1,000 regr troops, along with Chiliarch Yang¡¯s unit, were stationed behind, ready to join the offensive.
As anticipated, the traps concealed along the roadside had been sessfully neutralized.
The soldiers erupted in joy.
Madam¡¯s efforts had significantly reduced casualties, focusing on countering the sharp arrows unleashed by the enemy. Additionally, the frontlineprised elite soldiers capable of contending with multiple foes, further minimizing potential losses.
The swiftness of their assault surpassed expectations, boosting morale among the troops.
Amidst the action, an individual appointed by Qin Silong wielded a loudspeaker and directed a message toward the adversaries,
¡°Listen, inhabitants within! All your mechanisms and concealed weaponry have been dismantled by our forces!¡±
¡°Depending solely on archery won¡¯t prolong your resistance for much longer!¡± ¡°I rmend surrendering peacefully, and I¡¯ll guarantee the preservation of your lives!¡±
Chapter 530 - 530: Retreat
Chapter 530: Retreat
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The guardians at the entrance were astounded. Why had all their meticulously set mechanisms failed in the morning?
Little did they know that Qin Silong was no ordinarymander¡ªhe was someone who had experienced rebirth.
In his previous life, following their triumph in the battle, Qin Silong dedicated time to studying the mechanisms erected by their adversaries. He discerned the underlying principles of these contraptions and identified their cement.
Although the mechanisms were positioned on the road, the essentialponents, such as stones and wood, were situated on the mountain. By sending individuals to the mountain to control those handling the materials, the mechanisms below were rendered useless.
The strategists assumed that the soldiers couldn¡¯t ascend the mountain due to its sheer cliffs, deeming it an impassable barrier.
However, Qin Silong¡¯s rebirth brought unique knowledge. In his previous life, after their victory, he chanced upon information from a local captive regarding a secret passage behind the mountain. This passage led to a steep path from the back of the mountain to its summit, providing an entry point to Three Flowers County from above.
This alternative route negated the need to traverse the entrance.
Nevertheless, the treacherous path posed a significant challenge, making it perilous for ordinary individuals to navigate without risking fatal falls.
Currently, members of the Dragon Phoenix Hall and Qin Silong¡¯s elite troops had formed a small unit of nearly a hundred people. They had sessfully reached the mountain, neutralized those responsible for cing the materials, and dismantled the mechanisms. The rocks, wood, fuel, and fire on the mountain were now secure.
Moreover, this group was swiftly advancing toward the rear of the enemy. In their quest to subdue the bandits, they understood the significance of capturing the leaders first, making various leaders their prime targets.
The pivotal realization for the attacking forcesy in the understanding that eliminating the leader would swiftly disperse the enemy soldiers.
Drawing upon his memory, Qin Silong marked defensive points on the map, providing clear guidance for his advancing troops.
Witnessing the gradual encroachment of enemy soldiers, panic swept through the defenders at the entrance. Urgent dispatches flooded into the castle, pleading for reinforcements.
The imminent threaty in the approaching moment when the soldiers wouldunch a direct assault on the entrance. Archery would then lose its efficacy, transitioning to closebat where numerical superiority was crucial for defense.
Inside the castle, confusion reigned. How had the mechanisms, unscathed in the morning, been destroyed now? Could it be that a celestial force had descended upon the mountain, obliterating the mechanisms and ascending without exnation?
Recognizing the necessity of reinforcing the entrance, 2,000 individuals were sent out of the castle. However, as the soldiers neared the entrance, and the battle escted to a standoff, the demand for additional reinforcements became urgent.
Compelled by the situation, the castle dispatched another 2,000 soldiers. After three waves of sending a total of 6,000 reinforcements, the castle hesitated tomit any more.
The remaining thousands of specially trained soldiers within the castle were akin to a regr army, considered valuable assets not to be squandered recklessly.
Qin Silong and Su Ping led the charge with an irresistible force, striking down enemies and infusing the attacking forces with a surge of morale. The majority of their troops exhibited exceptional bravery in the face of adversity.
The enemy steadily retreated, and the pursuing soldiers pressed on.
Reaching the castle gate, the retreating forces found it tightly shut. There was no intention to swing it open to wee them inside, nor was there any sign of the sect army mobilizing forbat.
Desperation rang out in the shouts of the retreating soldiers,
¡°Open the door! Let us in!¡±
¡°Open the door! We need reinforcements!¡±
¡°Open the door and send troops to fight!¡±
Despite their fervent pleas, the castle gate remained closed, and the entrance¡¯s drawbridge remained suspended..
Chapter 531 - 531: Inspiration
Chapter 531: Inspiration
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°You heartless bastards! You won¡¯t let us in, and you won¡¯t send out reinforcements. You want to see us die!¡±
¡°You heartless bastards! I worked for you, and this is how you repay me!¡±
¡°You¡¯ll get what you deserve!¡±
Despite their bitter scolding, these individuals had no choice but to escape.
Observing that the castle gate remained firmly shut, they didn¡¯t linger to face impending doom. Instead, many chose to abandon resistance and fled in all directions.
The robust castle perched on the mountain¡¯s back, surrounded by farnd and towering peaks beyond.
¡°Don¡¯t pursue fleeing enemies! ¡±
Qin Silong halted the soldiers eager to pursue and y them.
Most of those escaping weremoners who had been coerced into serving the oppressive forces. If they could renounce their misguided path and cease their viinous acts, Qin Silong was inclined to spare them.
Furthermore, there was no time to chase these deserters.
Their primary goal was the swift conquest of the castle!
As Qin Silong announced their imminent assault, the victorious soldiers, still recovering from the recent battle, tensed up once more. Some expressed confusion.
¡°We¡¯ve just endured a challenging battle. Shouldn¡¯t we rest first?¡±
¡°Do we truly have the confidence to triumph in the next arduous encounter?¡±
¡°The castle walls are towering high. It¡¯s evident that assaulting it won¡¯t be easy.¡±
¡°Moreover, there¡¯s a moat ahead. If we attempt to breach it, the potential for numerous casualties is high.¡±
However, these sentiments were shared in hushed tones, for none dared to voice such reservations directly to Qin Silong.
The witnessing of Qin Silong swiftly dispatching Chiliarch Yang was etched in many minds. While not all had seen it with their own eyes, the recounting of the event had circted multiple times.
There was no denying the mix of fear and awe inspired by Qin Silong.
Fear, because he was perceived as merciless. He had disposed of a chiliarch without a second thought, disregarding any pleas for mercy. Additionally, the knowledge that Chiliarch Yang hailed from the Public House entuated the audacity of Qin Silong¡¯s actions.
Impression turned to admiration due to Qin Silong¡¯s courage and prowess on the battlefield. Witnessing him lead the charge, his saber iming countless enemies, left an indelible mark on their minds.
Moreover, they admired his strategic acumen, recognizing hismitment to minimizing casualties through well-thought-out ns.
Thus far, Qin Silong had delivered on his promises, having sessfully destroyed hidden weapon mechanisms and executed a tactical assault on the entrance with minimal losses.
Now, as he announced his intent to swiftly conquer the castle, doubts lingered. Should they ce their trust in his words once again?
Regardless of the soldiers¡¯ belief in his n, Qin Silong remained steadfast in his strategy.
The small team of nearly a hundred members, strategically ced by Qin Silong, had sessfully infiltrated the castle through a secret passage. This concealed tunnel, originally dug by the castle inhabitants for a potential retreat, now served as a covert entry point for Qin Silong¡¯s forces.
In Qin Silong¡¯s recollection of his dream, after the castle had been sessfully breached, the instigators of the riot had managed to escape through this very tunnel. These individuals were descendants of the previous dynasty, motivated by a desire to control public opinion rather than prematurely revealing their intent to revive their nation.
Understanding the reluctance of their well-trained soldiers to be exposed too early and risk losses, they had chosen a strategic retreat, using the concealment of the tunnel to escape to the back of the mountain. The dream¡¯s vivid recollection guided Qin Silong¡¯s actions, allowing him to anticipate their movements and n ordingly..
Chapter 532 - 532: Psychological Scheme
Chapter 532 - 532: Psychological Scheme
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In his previous life, when these individuals initiated the riot and effectively lost tens of thousands of soldiers while manipting public opinion, their objectives had already been aplished.
Despite the heavy casualties suffered by the soldiers, those who perished on their side were the civilians hastily gathered at thest minute.
Their own soldiers emerged unscathed.
Consequently, when the soldiers assaulted the castle, they promptly abandoned it, retreating safely through a secret passage. Preserving their strength took precedence.
Subsequently, they relocated to another location and replicated the scenario from Three Flowers County.
In this current existence, Qin Silong would not permit a repeat of such actions!
They were the instigators of this riot, and he intended for them to face the consequences.
The soldiers rested on the spot, burying a pot to prepare a meal.
True to his word, Qin Silong provided cured meat for the breakfast.
By the time they finished eating, the sky had already brightened.
Soon, twelve longdders, the same ones used in the castle attack, were brought forward.
The castle guards scoffed at the sight.
¡°You still think you can breach our castle with these shortdders!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t make usugh!¡±
¡°Open your eyes and behold the height of our fortress.¡±
¡°Using these shoddydders to invade our castle? Dream on!¡±
This psychological ploy aimed to demoralize the enemy had already taken effect before the actual assault, suppressing the soldiers¡¯ morale. Qin Silong instructed the soldiers to pay no heed to the taunts.
¡°We can capture the castle in one decisive move!¡±
After a while, the castle guards observed the soldiers linking two longdders with special iron nails, transforming them into an exceptionally extendeddder.
This extendeddder nearly matched the height of the castle wall.
Nevertheless, the guards on the castle continued to scoff.
¡°Do you believe that connecting twodders will enable you to reach our city wall?¡±
¡°The real question is, how do you n to breach the city wall?¡±
¡°Take a look at our moat. It¡¯s wide and deep. Can you cross it without a suspension bridge?¡±
¡°Hahaha, not a chance!¡±
¡°Let me ask you, how many of you are adept swimmers? But let me warn you, forget about swimming over. There are flesh-eating fish in the water, not to mention soul-stealing Water Ghosts! ¡±
¡°I suggest you retreat promptly and bring over 100,000 soldiers. Only then might you have enough corpses to fill our moat. Otherwise, crossing it will be beyond your reach!¡±
The soldiers seethed with anger.
Nevertheless, Qin Silong counseled them, ¡°The enemy is trying to y mind games with us. Ignore their words. Don¡¯t let them manipte your emotions.¡± ¡°Believe that we possess a strategy to capture the castle decisively!¡±
Observing theirmander¡¯sposed demeanor, the soldiers gradually regained theirposure.
Qin Silong consistently infused them with hope.
Many among the soldiers knew Qin Silong well. It was widely rumored in the army that Qin Silong possessed extraordinary luck, capable of bringing good fortune not only to himself but also to those around him.
As long as he led, victory and honor were assured.
Sessfullypleting a mission was never a concern for him.
Furthermore, hisrades, too, consistently emerged unharmed.
The assault on the entrance the previous night served as a clear illustration.
They triumphed against an opposing force of nearly 10,000 soldiers.
The enemy suffered a loss of at least 5,000 troops, while the soldiers¡¯ casualties numbered around 500.
This approximate count waspiled by various centurions.
Qin Silong seemed akin to a deity of luck, a guardian to those under hismand.
Under his guidance, they could trust that no harm would befall them..
Chapter 533 - 533: Deliberately Set a Fire
Chapter 533 - 533: Deliberately Set a Fire
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Before the break of dawn, the twelve wooden steps merged into six lengthy stairs.
Simultaneously, some soldiers transported seven or eight long beams, evidently intended for breaching the castle door.
Qin Silong organized the soldiers into a disciplined formation.
The castle guards atop the structure anticipated an impending attack and prepared for battle.
Yet, they remainedposed.
The robust castle posed formidable challenges¡ªit boasted high, resilient walls, resistant to easy ascent, and a gate of exceptional strength, impervious to a mere handful of beams.
From their elevated position, the guards taunted the soldiers below.
¡°Brothers, have you contemted whether you truly want to engage in this battle?¡±
¡°Should you choose to fight, you¡¯ll likely end up as mere sandbags, filling the moat!¡±
¡°If you doubt us, go ahead and try!¡±
¡°The officials care not for your lives. They¡¯ll tread upon your lifeless bodies to ascend!¡±
¡°Why not reconsider your way of life and join our ranks? You needn¡¯t risk your life storming the castle or be relegated to the role of a moat-filling sandbag.¡±
At that moment, Qin Silong abruptly mounted his horse, brandishing his bow and arrow, and rode to the forefront.
Soldiers shouted, ¡°Qin, be cautious!¡±
The soldiers¡¯ position was still at a safe distance from the castle, beyond the reach of the sharp arrows perched on its walls.
However, Qin Silong advanced toward the castle. If struck by the adversary¡¯s arrows, their ability to wage the uing battle would bepromised.
As anticipated, the leader of the castle guards eximed with excitement,
¡°Archers, prepare yourselves!¡±
He recognized the figure on the horse¡ªit was Qin!
Eliminating Qin would be a significant feat.
Without hesitation, the guard leadermanded, ¡°Fire! Sustain the barrage!¡± A multitude of sharp arrows hurtled toward Qin Silong.
However, Qin Silong had halted his advance. Nocking an arrow, he aimed at the tall man wielding a loudspeaker atop the castle. This individual had been employing psychological tactics to undermine the soldiers¡¯ morale.
¡°Ah¡¡± A piercing scream rang out as the man, who had been orchestrating the psychological warfare, was struck through the chest. His demise was imminent.
Qin Silong released the arrow and swiftly retreated on his horse.
The arrowsunched from the castle fell far short, failing to even graze Qin Silong¡¯s hair.
The soldiers erupted in cheers. ¡°Well done, Commander Qin!¡± ¡°All hail Commander Qin!¡±
The guard leader stood in stunned disbelief.
Could Qin Silong truly achieve precision shots from such a distance?
Observing hismanding presence, doubts crept in¡ªcould he indeed devise a strategy to assault the castleter?
With the instigator of the taunts eliminated, the castle guards fell silent.
As the sun began to rise, the guards witnessed the soldiers connecting the sixdders into three exceedingly long ones.
Only then did they realize that thedders weren¡¯t meant for scaling the city wall; instead, they were to serve as a bridge across the moat.
Yet, their confusion deepened. The longdder was assembled, the smaller wooden blocks prepared, but the soldiers refrained fromunching their attack.
The small wooden blocks were intended to beid on thedder.
The soldiers found themselves somewhat perplexed.
Commander Qin had dered his intent to capture the castle in one decisive move, but considerable time had psed without any action.
As spection circted about Qin Silong¡¯s strategy, thick smoke abruptly billowed from the castle.
Qin Silong grinned. ¡°They¡¯ve aplished it already! ¡± Simultaneously, chaos erupted among the castle guards.
¡°The headquarters is aze!¡±
¡°The fire is substantial.. It must be a deliberate act!¡±
Chapter 534 - 534: Drugged
Chapter 534 - 534: Drugged
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Initially, the sight of a fire at the headquarters wouldn¡¯t have caused such chaos.
There were plenty of soldiers stationed there, and dealing with the fire seemed manageable.
The issue arose when no one was seen attempting to extinguish the mes.
Simultaneously, a sudden wave of stomachaches afflicted the soldiers¡ªnot just a few, but all of them.
¡°Sir, my stomach is in pain. May I be excused to see a doctor?¡± one soldier inquired.
The guard leader, his own stomach causing him distress and beads of sweat forming on his forehead, reprimanded him with a stern expression. ¡°Fool!
Can¡¯t you see¡ everyone is experiencing stomachaches? Are we all nning to request leave¡ to see a doctor?¡±
¡°Then¡ who will guard this castle?¡±
The guardsmented in unison. ¡°How can we safeguard our stomachs? We need to go to the toilet..
The guard leader spoke sternly, ¡°Let me make this clear: no matter how agonizing your stomach feels¡ you must remain at your post!¡±
¡°Anyone daring to desert¡ will be ruthlessly killed!¡±
At the mention of ¡°kill without mercy, ¡± more guards joined in a collective wail.
¡°I need to go to the toilet¡¡±
¡°I can¡¯t hold it any longer¡¡± ¡°Ah¡ It stinks! Did you soil your pants?¡±
¡°Aren¡¯t you¡ soiling your pants!¡±
The guard leader was drenched in sweat. Despite his own urgent need for the toilet, he resisted the urge.
As the stench filled the air, and his subordinates openly discussed soiled pants, the guard leader reached his breaking point.
Desiring to distance himself and avoid embarrassment in front of his subordinates, he attempted to run further away. However, it was toote.
The soldiers¡¯ pants were secured at the feet, preventing any escape for the mess within.
This addedyer of humiliation intensified their misery.
Simultaneously, their stomach pains escted.
¡°It hurts. I suspect there¡¯s something wrong with the food I ate this morning!¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t that obvious?¡±
¡°If our morning meal was fine, why is everyone experiencing¡ diarrhea?¡± ¡°Diarrhea is one thing, but if it¡¯s poison, we might not survive!¡± ¡°Whether it¡¯sxatives or poison, our chances of survival¡ are slim!¡± The guard¡¯s words served as a stark reminder.
He was correct. In their current condition, they were unfit for battle and defenseless against the impending attack.
When the soldiers assaulted the castleter, their fate would likely be swift beheading.
Yet, they dared not desert now; any attempt to flee would result in immediate execution by the officials.
ncing at the increasingly raging fire at the headquarters, they noted the absence of any firefighting efforts.
People in civilian clothes scattered in all directions.
Could it be that the soldiers left to defend the headquarters were simrly drugged?
The more they pondered, the more usible it seemed.
The soldiers were in a state of increasing distress, bordering on desperation.
Moreover, aside from Qin Silong and a handful of his trusted aides, no one else was privy to the situation within the castle.
Unease gripped these soldiers. After all, war was unforgiving. As the impending general attack loomed, the uncertainty of survival hung over them.
Assessing the current circumstances, the odds seemed stacked against them.
Otherwise, Commander Qin would not have postponed the assault.
Now, they had no choice but to entrust their fate to the unpredictable whims of war.
Qin Silong gathered all the chiliarchs.
¡°We¡¯reunching the attack soon!¡±
Su Ping eagerly volunteered, raising his hand. ¡°I request to lead the team as the vanguard!¡±
Still aglow with the bloodlust from the previous night¡¯s battle, Su Ping keenly perceived the current predicament. A formidable castle was easy to defend but posed a formidable challenge to assail..
Chapter 535 - 535: Myth
Chapter 535 - 535: Myth
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
He sensed that, at this moment, no one would willingly step forward as the vanguard.
So, he volunteered, intending to relieve Qin Silong¡¯s burden.
The fear of death had been cast aside from the moment he joined the military camp.
With thick smoke billowing from the castle, presenting an opportune moment for an attack, Su Ping felt the time was right.
Qin Silong ced a reassuring pat on his shoulder and smiled, ¡°Chiliarch Su, excellent initiative! However, we won¡¯t need a vanguard for this assault.¡±
Confusion etched the faces of the chiliarchs.
Who wouldunch an attack on a castle without a vanguard?
¡°Listen closely!¡±
¡°I¡¯ve dispatched elite soldiers through the secret passage, instructing them to tamper with the enemy¡¯s food. Oncepleted, I set their headquarters aze.¡±
¡°Observing the thick smoke rising from the castle, they initiated the fire themselves. Simultaneously, they confirmed the sess of their mission.¡± ¡°If my deduction is correct, the guards atop the castle must have been affected.¡±
As Qin Silong revealed this, the chiliarchs struggled to grasp the reality of the situation.
¡°How did you discover the existence of a secret passage leading to the castle?¡±
Faced with theplexity of the situation, Qin Silong opted for brevity. ¡°This credit goes to our spy.¡±
¡°Luck was on their side; they stumbled upon information revealing that after capturing Three Flowers County, these individuals, in anticipation of an escape route, ndestinely constructed a secret passage leading outside.¡± ¡°This passage was intended for their own use, a well-hidden escape route.¡±
The chiliarchs¡¯ eyes widened in astonishment.
If this were true, then it was nothing short of miraculous!
Discovering a secret passage leading out of the castle in such a short span of time was already beyond belief. How fortunate must the spy be to uncover such crucial information?
Considering that there were likely defenders inside, it was an impressive feat for the elite soldiers sent by Commander Qin to infiltrate the castle unnoticed. To not only breach the kitchen and tamper with the enemy¡¯s breakfast but also set their headquarters on fire showcased their unparalleled skill.
The efficiency with which these missions were executed by Qin¡¯s selected elite soldiers made them seem almost otherworldly.
It was as if Commander Qin had amassed a group of subordinates as potent as Heavenly Soldiers and Heavenly Generals. The notion seemed surreal¡ªhow did Commander Qin, who was only a chiliarch before, acquire such a formidable team?
Could Commander Qin be fabricating this story?
However, his expression conveyed sincerity, devoid of any hint of jest.
¡°Let¡¯s wait a bit longer. If luck is on our side, these lengthydders might be obsolete. Someone within the castle might lower the suspension bridge.¡±
¡°Is that even possible?¡±
The incredulity was palpable.
The other chiliarchs, much like Su Ping, found the situation hard to believe. Qin Silong grinned and added, ¡°There¡¯s something even more extraordinary!¡± ¡°Observe, the castle door is now wide open. The long beams we brought are no longer needed.¡±
All heads turned, confirming that the castle door had indeed swung open.
Shortly afterward, the drawbridge suspended over the moat began its gradual descent.
¡°Commander Qin, are you certain they¡¯re not nning to engage us outside the city?¡± questioned another chiliarch, mirroring the skepticism etched on the faces of hisrades.
The notion of capturing the castle without deploying a single soldier seemed too imusible for them to ept.
Qin Silong burst into heartyughter.
¡°I¡¯ve exined it thoroughly. Do you still doubt my words?¡±
¡°Very well! I¡¯ll be the first to cross the moat and enter the castle!¡±
Chapter 536 - 536: Warning
Chapter 536 - 536: Warning
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong swiftly organized the order of entry into the castle and outlined the rules to be strictly adhered to.
¡°No taking advantage of the situation to harm innocent civilians. Above all, ensure that the culprits don¡¯t escape with any gains.¡±
Su Ping was assigned to follow him inside.
¡°Yes, sir!¡± Su Ping acknowledged, though a trace of skepticism lingered.
Despite his reservations, heplied with Qin Silong¡¯s directives. After all, Qin Silong had saved his life, and if they were to face peril together, Su Ping harbored no regrets.
Qin Silong couldn¡¯t help but find amusement in Su Ping¡¯s skepticism. Despite the clear exnation, there remained a lingering doubt. Qin Silong harbored no resentment; the situation was indeed peculiar. Regardless, he was confident that the truth would speak for itself.
Just as Qin Silong contemted this, a voice echoed from above the castle. ¡°Lord Qin! We¡¯ve sessfully executed our mission. The insurgents inside have ingestedxatives and are now incapacitated!¡±
¡°We stormed their headquarters, apprehended the leader of the rebellion, and he willingly surrendered to save his life.¡± ¡°Behold, they¡¯ve raised the white g!¡±
¡°The castle gates stand open.¡±
¡°Now, Lord Qin, kindly lead your troops into the city for inspection!¡±
The voice of the person who shouted was familiar to many. He was a centurion under Qin Silong.
This time, there was no room for doubt. Every soldier heard the promation clearly.
The realization dawned upon them that there was no need for bloodshed or sacrifices. They had effortlessly breached a castle and secured victory. Cheers erupted among the soldiers.
Qin Silong and hispanions entered the castle, finding the row of houses that had served as the headquarters for the rioters almostpletely burned down.
The rioters who failed to escape in time met a tragic fate, with around a thousand of them perishing in the mes. These casualties predominantlyprised the elite members of the rebellion who, already weakened by poisoning, were unable to flee.
Beyond those burned to death, the capture of nearly 4,000 rioters unfolded. Among them were about 2,000 elites cultivated by the descendants of the previous dynasty. The ranks also included civilians forcibly conscripted and some who had willingly joined the rebellious organization.
Almost all these individuals had been exposed toxatives. The reactions to the drug varied, as did the severity of diarrhea¡ªsome experienced continuous bouts, while others endured only stomach pains or had a limited number of bowel movements.
However, themonality among them was their weakened and malodorous state.
This wasn¡¯t an ordinaryxative; it was a specialized formtion personally concocted by Qin Zhenzhen. She had also incorporated Tendon Softening Powder into the mix.
Unable to be physically present, Qin Zhenzhen had provided additional medicinal powder, aiming to assist her Fourth Brother and minimize casualties in the battle.
The smooth execution of thexative n likely exceeded Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s expectations.
The news of Qin Silong and his forces capturing Three Flowers County City quickly spread to the southern military camp.
Upon finishing the letter, Old General Chen wore a somber expression.
It had to be acknowledged that Qin Silong was undeniably a fortunate and formidable general.
For now, setting aside the question of how Qin Silong managed to capture Three Flowers County Castle without losing a single soldier, Old General Chen couldn¡¯t help but admire his audacity in openly eliminating Chiliarch Yang.
Qin Silong was fully aware that Chiliarch Yang was his subordinate, yet he executed him ruthlessly.
This action served as a stark warning to the Public House..
Chapter 537 - 537: Strategy
Chapter 537 - 537: Strategy
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Initially, General Chen suspected that Qin Silong¡¯s killing of Chiliarch Yang wasn¡¯t a spontaneous act but rather a calcted n.
The scenario unfolded as follows: upon initially hearing the news, Qin Silong learned that Deputy General Lin and Chiliarch Yang were assigned to assassinate him and Su Ping. This decision likely stemmed from Deputy General Lin and Chiliarch Yang¡¯s failure in keeping the operation covert, resulting in the news leaking.
Despite being aware of this, Qin Silong kept silent, allowing rumors to circte within the army. These rumors imed that soldiers had been dispatched with the intention of plotting against Qin Silong and Su Ping. Allegedly, they nned to send 5,000 troops against the 15,000 rioters, with the goal of ensuring Qin Silong and Su Ping¡¯s demise on the battlefield.
The rumors suggested that, owing to Su Bin¡¯s transgressions against the Public House, both Qin Silong and Su Ping needed to be eliminated. Supposedly, this conspiracy was orchestrated by the Public House itself. The narrative painted the Public House as fearing that the duo¡¯s rising influence within the army might pose a threat to its future interests, prompting them to preemptively eliminate the potential threat.
When Qin Silong assassinated Deputy General Lin and Chiliarch Yang, he deliberately feigned ignorance about Chiliarch Yang¡¯s true identity. Furthermore, he purposefully disclosed these rumors, emphasizing his excitement and unwavering trust in Old General Chen¡¯s character.
Qin Silong¡¯s strategy was shrewd. By making this incident widely known, even reaching the capital, he created a situation where attacking Qin Silong and Su Ping would inadvertently confirm the veracity of the rumors.
The potential damage to Qin Silong¡¯s reputation and the potential destabilization of the army¡¯s morale weighed heavily on Old General Chen¡¯s mind.
An unstable army morale would jeopardize their ability to defend the border, leading to catastrophic consequences for the country. If the country fell, the fate of both their Public House and the royal family would be sealed¡ªthey would face extermination.
Considering the broader implications, Old General Chen had to prioritize the bigger picture. Qin Silong¡¯s victory in a significant battle, with a loss of only about a thousand soldiers and the extraordinary feat of capturing a castle without any casualties, had elevated him to a legendary status in the army.
Attacking such a mythical general seemed an ill-advised move.
Contemting this dilemma, Old General Chen wrestled with his thoughts. Perhaps Qin Silong wasn¡¯t as terrifying as he appeared. It could all be a series of coincidences. Maybe Qin Silong was genuinely unaware of the inner workings.
Perhaps Deputy General Lin¡¯s demise was indeed idental. Killing Chiliarch Yang might have been an authoritative demonstration to maintain discipline within the army¡ªeliminating a subordinate who overstepped boundaries.
With these considerations, Old General Chen¡¯s expression gradually lightened. This interpretation seemed more logical, providing a sense of reassurance.
He concluded that there wasn¡¯t concrete evidence to definitively link Su Bin to the Third Prince¡¯s faction. Uncertainty lingered about whether Qin Silong and
Su Ping would stand against them.
With this reasoning, General Chen decided to allow Qin Silong and Su Ping to proceed first, opting to observe the army¡¯s reaction.
The question remained: Would they be promoted, or not?
If it turned out that Qin Silong and Su Ping harbored hidden agendas against them, Old General Chen believed it wouldn¡¯t be toote to eliminate them.
Little did he know that while Qin Silong might not have conceived such a strategy, Su Bin certainly did.
Qin Silong had adopted Su Bin¡¯s approach in eliminating Deputy General Lin and Chiliarch Yang. Ultimately, Su Bin had even managed to subtly manipte
General Chen.
This turn of events only intensified Qin Silong¡¯s admiration for Su Bin. It became apparent why Su Bin had earned a reputation as a mastermind¡ªhe possessed a strategic mind that allowed him to navigate paths less conventional..
Chapter 538 - 538: I Won’t Convict You
Chapter 538 - 538: I Won¡¯t Convict You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Silong returned triumphantly with his army, and the initial contingent of 5,000 soldiers had suffered losses in the hundreds. However, the majority of the locally recruited temporary soldiers expressed their readiness to continue following Qin Silong.
In their eyes, Qin Silong had transformed into a war god, and aligning themselves with such a figure promised a brighter future. Many of these temporary recruits came from impoverished families,cking alternative prospects. With no special skills, their options were limited to menialbor or agricultural work.
Learning a trade required a tuition fee, luck in finding a willing master, and possessing innate talent. Many couldn¡¯t afford the fees or struggled to grasp the skills, rendering the investment futile.
Joining the military camp offered a different prospect: food, amodation, and a monthly military stipend. Although the life might be arduous, they believed that enduring the hardships could lead to valuable skills. With some luck, they might even secure an official position, changing their fate and bringing honor to their ancestors.
The prospect of dying for the country didn¡¯t deter them. If they had to die, they preferred it to be a meaningful sacrifice, ensuring their lives weren¡¯t in vain. They held onto the belief that, eighteen yearster, they would be remembered as honorable men.
As these sentiments echoed among the regr soldiers in the military camp, their hearts were burdened with the reality of sacrifice.
The soldiers¡¯ decision to join the military camp was driven by a sense of having no other viable options. They saw this choice as a potential way out of their challenging circumstances.
Upon returning, Qin Silong promptlymunicated the situation to the military camp and sought Old General Chen¡¯s advice on whether to retain these recently recruited individuals. Old General Chen, in a swift response, granted Qin Silong the authority to make the decision himself.
Qin Silong, with no hesitation, initiated a meticulous selection process for thest-minute recruits, relying on hispetent subordinates to identify those who met all the criteria. After this thorough evaluation, approximately 2,000 individuals were deemed qualified, adding to the original 4,000 soldiers.
Even though Qin Silong was still 3,000 soldiers short of bing a full-fledgedmander, the unity among these 7,000 soldiers was strong. Their devotion to Qin Silong and their belief that following him was superior to any othermander solidified after this battle. The cohesion forged on the battlefield yed a pivotal role in their unity and confidence.
Upon returning to the military camp, Qin Silong, prioritizing humility, sought an audience with Old General Chen and offered a detailed exnation of Deputy General Lin¡¯s death and the circumstances surrounding the decision to eliminate Chiliarch Yang.
Old General Chen¡¯s face showed neither joy nor anger. Without intentionally making things difficult for Qin Silong or offering excessive praise, he delivered an indifferent statement, ¡°You won the battle, so you¡¯re right. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t convict you.¡±
In essence, the matter wasn¡¯t closed. The leniency stemmed from Qin Silong¡¯s victory, emphasizing the military camp¡¯s need for sessful generals to boost morale.
Upon returning to his tent, Qin Silong breathed a sigh of relief. He recognized the difficulty Old General Chen faced in punishing him. News of his deeds had already reached the Imperial Court, and rewards were on the horizon. Promotion to a truemander was imminent, with future advancements to deputy general and, eventually, a general overseeing a region.
Yet, in theing days, he had to contend with rivals from the Public House. Concealing his allegiance to his brother-inw and maintaining the illusion of unwavering loyalty to the Public House became paramount. Qin Silong also aimed to convince Old General Chen that he was a consistently victorious general..
Chapter 539 - 539: My Wife Is So Good-looking
Chapter 539 - 539: My Wife Is So Good-looking
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin received news of Qin Silong¡¯s sessful capture of the castle in Three Flowers County without any losses, and he was surprised by the clever tactics employed. Although the Dragon Phoenix Hall had aided Qin Silong¡¯s efforts, Su Bin didn¡¯t anticipate that Qin Silong would uncover a shortcut.
Qin Silong had strategically used information about an escape route secretly dug by the rioters. By sending elite soldiers to infiltrate the castle, they sessfully drugged the rioters¡¯ food, located their headquarters, and burned over a thousand of them to death. Additionally, they captured more than 20 leaders, demonstrating the effectiveness of the operation.
The sess of this mission deepened Su Bin¡¯s suspicion that Qin Silong and
Qin Zhenzhen were hiding crucial information from him. Despite the Dragon
Phoenix Hall being well-informed, they were unaware of the secret passage in the Three Flowers County castle. Su Bin pondered how Qin Silong¡¯s spies could have knowledge of this secret, especially when it was likely known only to the upper echelons of the organization responsible for digging it.
This revtion left Su Bin disappointed, considering the close rtionship he now shared with Qin Zhenzhen. The fact that she withheld a secret from him, despite their marital bond and her carrying his child, troubled him.
Observing Su Bin¡¯s unease, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Have you received news about Fourth Brother and the others?¡±
Su Bin nodded and spoke with a forced smile, ¡°Yes, I was about to tell you.¡± Observing Su Bin¡¯s expression, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart raced with anticipation.
¡°Fourth Brother and Second Brother¡¡±
Su Bin quickly interjected, ¡°Fourth Brother, Second Brother, and the others are doing well. They have sessfully captured the castle in Three Flower County.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s joy was evident as she eximed, ¡°Congrattions!¡±
¡°I knew that Fourth Brother and the others would surely triumph!¡±
Su Bin, studying his wife¡¯s radiant happiness, then asked, ¡°Why don¡¯t you inquire about how they managed to conquer Three Flowers County?¡±
Taken aback for a moment, Qin Zhenzhen swiftly responded, ¡°How did they capture the castle? Did their letter exin it? Please, tell me quickly. Don¡¯t keep me in suspense.¡±
Su Bin gazed directly at Qin Zhenzhen, causing her heart to flutter.
¡°What¡¯s the matter? Why are you staring at me like that?¡±
¡°Am I unrecognizable?¡±
¡°Or perhaps, am I not pleasing to the eye?¡±
¡°People say that pregnancy can make someone unattractive for three years.
Stop scrutinizing!¡±
Su Bin gently guided Qin Zhenzhen closer and embraced her.
¡°Wife, regardless of how you change, in my eyes, you¡¯re the most beautiful person in the world. How could you ever be anything less?¡±
¡°Then why did you look like that just now? Is there something on your mind?
Shouldn¡¯t we be happy that Fourth Brother and Second Brother won the
Qin Zhenzhen bombarded Su Bin with several questions in rapid session.
This was prompted by Su Bin¡¯s peculiar behavior.
¡°Just now, I gazed at you a little longer. It¡¯s rare to witness you so joyous, and it left me momentarily stupefied.¡±
¡°My wife is so beautiful.¡±
Seizing the opportunity, Su Bin leaned in to kiss Qin Zhenzhen.
He scolded himself inwardly for his earlier demeanor.
His wife was pregnant and experiencing strong reactions. She had no appetite, yet for the sake of her body and the child in her stomach, shepelled herself to eat, only to end up vomiting afterward.
One could imagine how ufortable she felt.
Yet, he had confronted her with a sour mood.
What a heartless fool he had been!
Even if his wife harbored her fourth brother¡¯s secret, so what?
Who didn¡¯t have one or two secrets?
Chapter 540 - 540: I Want to Know
Chapter 540 - 540: I Want to Know
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen found Su Bin overly affectionate. She clicked her tongue at him.
¡°You seem to have honey on your mouth!¡±
Su Bin hugged her, refusing to let go. ¡°Then try it again. I¡¯ll make you feel sweet.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen blushed.
¡°It¡¯s broad daylight, and we¡¯re in the courtyard. Aren¡¯t you afraid Su Ning will tease us?¡±
During her pregnancy, Su Ning wished she could be with Qin Zhenzhen 24 hours a day, fearing the old woman serving her might not be diligent enough and cause harm.
It had to be said that Su Ning¡¯s sister-inw was quite considerate.
A while ago, Su Ning mentioned needing to use the restroom, so she left.
Qin Zhenzhen took the opportunity to let the old woman assist her with other tasks, giving her some space.
She wasn¡¯t ustomed to constant surveince.
She cherished her privacy.
Su Bin reassured, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Su Ning is not blind. When she sees us like this, she won¡¯t openly mock us. At most, she¡¯ll hide andugh secretly.¡±
He desired his wife¡¯s happiness, wanting to shield her from any impact caused by his earlier emotions.
If Qin Zhenzhen persisted in asking, Su Bin might end up raising another question. If his wife opted to keep this secret, it could adversely affect their rtionship and her overall mood, especially during pregnancy.
This was certainly not favorable for expectant mothers.
Qin Zhenzhen yfully reached out and pinched Su Bin¡¯s handsome face.
¡°Don¡¯t change the subject. You haven¡¯t answered my question.¡±
¡°Why were you upset just now? And you still haven¡¯t told me how Fourth
Brother and Second Brother captured the castle. Were there many casualties?¡±
Having regained hisposure, Su Bin calmly shared the details mentioned in the letter with Qin Zhenzhen.
A sigh escaped Qin Zhenzhen.
Fourth Brother had not let her down.
He employed a strategy with minimal casualties to effortlessly seize the castle. Moreover, he utilized his influence to recruit a substantial number of supporters.
At this rate, the day Fourth Brother would ascend to the rank of general seemed imminent.
Yet, Old General Chen¡¯s military camp, where Fourth Brother served, posed constant dangers, and every step was fraught with peril.
If Old General Chen continued to perceive her Fourth Brother as a threat, discovering his weaknesses could lead to execution, much like Chiliarch Yang¡¯s fate at the hands of her Fourth Brother.
Contemting this, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s smile waned.
¡°Do you think Fourth Brother will be in danger when he returns to the military camp?¡±
Su Bin shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s currently no immediate danger.¡±
Qin Silong¡¯s sessful expedition had garnered support from the Public House. Punishing him after a victorious war with minimal casualties would not sit well with the soldiers in the camp. Moreover, it would harm General Chen¡¯s reputation and, most crucially, disrupt the army¡¯s morale.
However, Su Bin harbored some concerns.
¡°While we should celebrate Fourth Brother and Second Brother¡¯s triumph, reading the letter made me sense potential hidden dangers.¡± Qin Silong¡¯s capture of the castle seemed too effortless.
The precision of the information he possessed was uncanny.
The prowess of the elite soldiers he dispatched was almost mystical.
It would be all too simple for someone to exploit a vulnerability, framing him as a spy working for an organization. Perhaps, in pursuit of earning merits, he intentionally staged a spectacle, transforming himself into a legendary figure. Qin Zhenzhen could discern Su Bin¡¯s thoughts, but she still inquired, ¡°What hidden dangers?¡±
She wanted to understand Su Bin¡¯s perspective.
She was on the verge of confiding in Su Bin about the secret.
However, Su Bin replied, ¡°Wife, you needn¡¯t worry about this matter. I¡¯ll do my best to help Fourth Brother resolve any issues.¡±
Refusing to relent, Qin Zhenzhen insisted, ¡°I want to know!¡±
Chapter 541 - 541: Analysis
Chapter 541 - 541: Analysis
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Unable to dissuade Qin Zhenzhen, Su Bin shared the details of the unfolding situation.
First, he delved into the root causes of the riot in Three Flowers County.
¡°What motivated the instigators behind this disturbance?¡± he pondered.
¡°Based on intelligence gathered by the Dragon Phoenix Hall, it appears that the agitators are descendants of the previous dynasty.¡±
¡°Their objective is clear: to sow discord, intensify the strife between the government and themoners, and shape a narrative unfavorable to the current emperor.¡±
¡°Their aim is to broadcast the message that the emperor is ineffective, the officialspel the people to rebel, and the popce is left with no alternative but to rise up. Subsequently, the government deploys forces to brutally quell the uprising, reinforcing the perception that the people have no recourse.¡±
¡°The ultimate goal is to foment widespread dissatisfaction with the government.¡±
¡°They¡¯ve strategically employed a secret passage for their retreat, indicating a desire to conserve their forces.¡¯
¡°I suspect Three Flower County serves as a testing ground for their tactics.
Sess here could lead to simr endeavors elsewhere.¡±
¡°In any case, they incur minimal losses. The casualties were predominantlyst-minute recruits, while those with skills and allegiance remain unscathed, ensuring their ranks grow steadily.¡±
¡°As officials coerce people to rebel in various regions, fueled by rumors that transform falsehoods into truths, the existing government corruption amplifies public discontent.¡±
¡°The current emperor¡¯s perceived inaction only adds fuel to the fire.¡±
¡°Let the Public House pursue its interests unchecked, but if they wish to safeguard their lucrativework, they must offer sufficient incentives to those supporting them. Turning a blind eye to corruption among their ranks is the price they¡¯ll pay for loyalty.¡±
¡°At the same time, the Public House exerts considerable effort to amass wealth, solidifying their influence to the point where even the emperor is within their sphere of control.¡±
¡°In sustaining this dynamic, the more silver they require, the more they exploit the system, bendingws to line their own pockets.¡±
¡°Can you fathom the hardships faced by ordinary civilians in such a climate?¡± ¡°Even holding an official position bes a daunting task.¡±
¡°Entering the bureaucracy necessitates connections within it; failure to establish ties results in swift ostracization, potential demotion, or worse¡ª framing and even loss of life.¡±
¡°In this challenging atmosphere, the descendants of the previous dynasty deliberately incited unrest, manipting the popce to their advantage.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen fixed her gaze on Su Bin.
His keen insights left a strong impression.
Without her exposure to literature, and without Fourth Brother¡¯s rebirth, how could Su Bin have arrived at such conclusions?
Su Bin chuckled. ¡°I digress.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°No, you¡¯re not veering off course. This is about interconnected issues.¡±
¡°Are you suggesting that my fourth brother might be viewed as a pawn orchestrated by the descendants of the previous dynasty to infiltrate the military camp?¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°It¡¯s a possibility, given that those individuals have likely achieved their objectives. Many of the initial casualties inflicted by soldiers werest-minute civilian recruits.¡±
¡°If they sessfully retreat through the secret passage, and Fourth Brother and his team exploit the chaos, it could spell trouble. usations might arise, iming Fourth Brother is a pawn of the enemy.¡±
¡°Fortunately, Fourth Brother¡¯s operatives acted swiftly, burning some alive and capturing the rest, including nearly twenty leaders. They¡¯ve already been dispatched to the capital.¡¯
¡°Soon, these captives will divulge their secrets, hopefully thwarting simr incidents in the future..
Chapter 542 - 542: My Private Revenue Is Your Business
Chapter 542 - 542: My Private Revenue Is Your Business
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°This alone is sufficient grounds for Fourth Brother¡¯s promotion.¡±
¡°In these circumstances, no one would openly dare to reprimand Fourth Brother. However, the situation in private is a bit more nuanced.¡±
¡°While the suspicion of Fourth Brother being a pawn of the previous dynasty has been dispelled, it has simultaneously escted. Now, Fourth Brother is perceived as a pawn of the Third Prince.¡±
¡°It¡¯s not far-fetched for the Public House to suspect that Fourth Brother is allied with the Third Prince.¡±
¡°They may specte that agents of the Third Prince discovered the secret passage within the castle, strategically cing operatives inside.¡±
¡°The narrative they might construct is that the Third Prince¡¯s agents, through poisoning and arson, facilitated Fourth Brother¡¯s capture of the castle without losing a single soldier. The objective: to elevate Fourth Brother¡¯s status as the God of War, earning himmendation from the Imperial Court and recognition from Old General Chen. This would secure his position in the army as a future ally of the Third Prince.¡±
¡°If the Public House confirms that Fourth Brother is aligned with the Third Prince, it poses a threat to his situation.¡±
¡°Though there may be no overt danger, shadows of uncertainty persist, making the future unpredictable.¡±
¡°It all hinges on Fourth Brother¡¯s actions moving forward.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen carefully pondered Su Bin¡¯s words. His analysis wasn¡¯t sensational; it was grounded in reason.
¡°So, you¡¯re suggesting that if Fourth Brother can¡¯t provide a clear exnation about how he knew of the secret passage and the identities of the nearly 100 individuals involved, he could be in jeopardy?¡±
¡°Yes.¡±
¡°And you harbor doubts about Fourth Brother¡¯s exnation as well?¡±
Su Bin nodded. In any case, he sensed a loophole in Qin Silong¡¯s ount.
Qin Silong held the position of chiliarch in the military camp, confining him within its bounds in the absence of a specific mission. His actions, the extent of his authority, and the capabilities of his subordinates were all visible to those within the camp.
Rather than risk suspicion from the Public House, it was imperative to devise a clearer exnation. Su Bin, however, found himself grappling with theplexity of the situation, causing a headache.
In the absence of an immediate solution, Qin Zhenzhen grasped the gravity of the issue. She contemted revealing Fourth Brother¡¯s rebirth to Su Bin, but such a decision required consultation with Fourth Brother first. His private message, detailing the recent victory, was anticipated shortly.
As Fourth Brother had reported his expedited journey to Dragon Phoenix Hall to Su Bin, Qin Zhenzhen anticipated an ordinary private message from him.
Within its contents, she would find Fourth Brother¡¯s sentiments and insights.
Only after receiving the message could she gauge whether to divulge the secret to Su Bin. Musing aloud, she questioned, ¡°What course of action should we
Su Bin offered reassurance. ¡°There must be a solution. Fourth Brother is inherently clever; he might have already devised a strategy to address the situation.¡±
¡°I hope so,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied, clinging to the prospect of Fourth Brother¡¯s ingenuity.
Qin Zhenzhen resolved to disclose the secret to Su Bin, redirecting her thoughts by changing the topic.
¡°Is the renovation of the government officepleted?¡±
Su Bin smiled and responded, ¡°Almost. It should be finished in about three days. I appreciate your support, my wife!¡±
While it appeared that Qin Zhenzhen provided the funds for the government office repairs, the reality was that the money came from Su Bin¡¯s personal ount. As the master of the Dragon Phoenix Hall, he received the lion¡¯s share of the dividends.
Su Bin possessed greater financial resources than Qin Zhenzhen, given the extensivework of the Dragon Phoenix Hall under his care. Managing the safety and well-being of its members across the country imposed a weighty responsibility on him.
In a lighthearted manner, Qin Zhenzhen teased him, saying, ¡°You¡¯re quite the character. I didn¡¯t actually foot the bill.¡±
Su Bin responded earnestly, ¡°We¡¯re already husband and wife. My money is your money. In the future, you¡¯ll be in charge of my private ounts..¡±
Chapter 543 - 543: Secret
Chapter 543 - 543: Secret
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The following evening, Qin Silong sent a private message to Qin Zhenzhen, who opened it in the presence of Su Bin.
¡°I¡¯m heading to the study to address matters concerning the government office,¡± the message read.
Su Bin instinctively considered making an excuse to leave, but Qin Zhenzhen intervened. ¡°Fourth Brother sent a letter. Don¡¯t you want to know what he wrote?¡±
Su Bin smiled and replied, ¡°The date on your letter is the same as the one I received yesterday, during our initial attack on the castle. I assume the content is identical, primarily reporting good news.¡±
Having already read the letter, Qin Zhenzhen disclosed, ¡°I have a secret to tell you. Do you want to hear it?¡±
Su Bin was taken aback. ¡°Is it your secret or Fourth Brother¡¯s secret?¡±
While he had long been aware that both his wife and Qin Silong harbored secrets, hearing it directly from Qin Zhenzhen caught him off guard.
Qin Zhenzhen, too, was surprised. Despite knowing Su Bin¡¯s intelligence and harboring suspicions that he was aware of their secret, she felt a bit awkward being confronted with the question.
Realizing she should have confided in Su Bin earlier, she whispered, ¡°My secret is Fourth Brother¡¯s secret.¡±
She chose to share with Su Bin the revtion of Fourth Brother¡¯s rebirth but refrained from disclosing her own transmigration from another world.
Su Bin gazed at Qin Zhenzhen with anticipation.
¡°Do you believe that I would dream of something that hasn¡¯t happened yet?
And what happened next is exactly the same as what happened in the dream?¡±
Su Bin was genuinely surprised. ¡°Are you suggesting that your fourth brother can dream about future events?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen affirmed, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s correct! Although it sounds like something out of a novel, it genuinely happened to my fourth brother.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s surprise deepened. ¡°Please, tell me the whole story in detail!¡±
If Qin Silong possessed the ability to foresee the future, it could potentially exin many perplexing urrences.
¡°Sure,¡± Qin Zhenzhen began her exnation, choosing to reveal only part of the truth.
¡°It all started when you went to take the Cultivated Talent exam.¡±
¡°At that point, you had already left for the county, where you¡¯d be taking the Cultivated Talent exam in two days.¡±
¡°One afternoon, Fourth Brother came to me and shared a peculiar experience.¡±
¡°He exined that he had a dream during a nap. In the dream, he saw a courtesan taking one of your books and returning it to you at the Academy.¡±
¡°Since you hadn¡¯te out, she left the book with the gatekeeper, identifying herself as Miss Honglian from the Yihong Courtyard. She imed to be returning the book on behalf of her good sister and, in a moment of sorrow, revealed that her good sister had been deceived of her savings by a man, leading her to choose suicide and depart from the world.¡±
¡°At the time, Fourth Brother didn¡¯t suspect that Miss Honglian was framing you. Instead, he believed you were the heartless man who had swindled a courtesan out of her money.¡±
¡°Fourth Brother was furious and supported my decision to divorce you. He insisted that a man with such a dubious character was unfit for marriage and should be divorced.¡±
¡°I disagreed with Fourth Brother, asserting that there must be a misunderstanding. I told him that you are not the kind of person who would deceive a courtesan for financial gain.¡±
¡°At that moment, I even said to Fourth Brother, ¡®Do you harbor resentment towards Su Bin? Is this dream a product of your constant thoughts about him during the day, infiltrating your night-time dreams?¡±¡®
¡°My fourth brother responded, suggesting that it might indeed be just a dream, urging me not to give it much consideration..¡±
Chapter 544 - 544: I See
Chapter 544 - 544: I See
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s ount, Su Bin felt a surge of excitement.
¡°Wife, so you already had a deep understanding of me at that time and firmly believed that I was not that kind of person.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen suppressed herughter. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re the person I was contemting ways to marry. I had to understand your character thoroughly.¡±
¡°I knew you wouldn¡¯t involve yourself with prostitutes for money. I also recognized that, deep down, you¡¯re genuinely reserved andposed¡
Interrupting her, Su Bin said, ¡°Well, that¡¯s because I hadn¡¯t discovered how wonderful you are. If I had known, I would have been more enthusiastic.¡±
¡°However, two people need a process of getting to know and love each other to reach the harmonious state we¡¯re in now.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen clicked her tongue. ¡°You¡¯re bing quite eloquent. I wonder how much honey you¡¯ve coated your words with.¡±
¡°Would you like to find out?¡±
¡°Do you want to hear my secret or not?¡±
¡°Of course, I¡¯m eager to hear it. Please continue.¡±
Despite the simplicity of the subsequent events, Su Bin preferred hearing the story directly from his wife.
Qin Zhenzhen clicked her tongue again before proceeding.
¡°But I still had my concerns.¡±
¡°I confided in my fourth brother, expressing that this matter seemed peculiar.¡±
¡°Logically, dream recollections are often fuzzy, but the details in your dream were remarkably vivid. You even remembered the prostitute¡¯s name¡ªMiss
Honglian. Moreover, you recalled the book¡ªit was the Analects, with the name ¡®Su Bin¡¯ written on it.¡±
¡°I was just pondering, what if this is true?¡±
¡°It happened that we were heading to the county to discuss the sale of yam tablets with someone. At that moment, I decided that, whether true or not, we needed to delve deeper into the situation.¡±
¡°Upon uncovering the truth, Fourth Brother and I were utterly shocked.¡±
¡°There is indeed a courtesan in Yihong Courtyard named Honglian. There¡¯s also a woman who, heartbroken and deceived by a man, tragically chose to end her own life.¡¯
At this juncture, Su Bin couldn¡¯t resist asking, ¡°What were you thinking at that time?¡±
Teasingly, Qin Zhenzhen reached out to pinch his handsome face. ¡°I was so furious. I initially believed you weren¡¯t that kind of person, but it turned out to be true!¡±
Su Bin, not buying her act, grabbed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand. ¡°You¡¯re lying. You definitely didn¡¯t think that at the time, or else you wouldn¡¯t havee to my aid.¡±
¡°Back then, it was thanks to you and Fourth Brother. Otherwise, I wouldn¡¯t even be aware that I was in danger.¡±
Qin Zhenzhenughed. ¡°I know I can¡¯t deceive you. I just wanted to see your reaction. ¡±
She sensed a yful flirtation between her and Su Bin. Regardless of their actions, being with someone they loved was enjoyable. To others, it might seem mundane, but their hearts were filled with sweetness.
¡°I won¡¯t delve into every detail that transpired afterward.¡±
¡°Many seemingly coincidental events were actually foreseen by Fourth Brother in his dreams. Favorable urrences naturally unfolded, while unfavorable situations were averted.¡±
Su Bin transitioned from surprise to eptance without hesitation, disying an expression of understanding.
The world harbored many mystical phenomena, some of which were documented in the information Su Bin had ess to. Initially skeptical, he believed the tales were concocted by revered monks, but now he found them to be undeniably true.
Su Bin¡¯s mind drifted back to the time of the Cultivated Talent exam.
Unable to contain his curiosity, he inquired, ¡°Did Fourth Brother foresee rescuing my Fourth Brother and Eldest Sister in his dream?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°Your fourth brother nearly faced humiliation at that time. It was purely by chance that we happened toe to his aid.¡±
¡°But when I intervened to help Eldest Sister, it was Fourth Brother who dreamt of it first. He envisioned Eldest Sister being unjustly used by Wang Yizhi, who spontaneously wrote a divorce letter on the spot..¡±
Chapter 545 - 545: Character
Chapter 545 - 545: Character
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°We were able to locate Eldest Sister urately and prevent the incident because Fourth Brother¡¯s dream was incredibly vivid. The details were so clear, as if it had truly unfolded.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s countenance darkened at the mention of Wang Yizhi. Despite Wang Yizhi¡¯s demise, the lingering anger within Su Bin remained unvented. The thought of what might have befallen his sister evoked a desire tosh out even at Wang Yizhi¡¯s lifeless form.
¡°Did my elder sister sumb to despair andmit suicide afterward? Was my niece also subjected to misery?¡±
If this were the case, Su Bin had no intention of sparing Wang Yizhi¡¯s family from retribution.
How heartless!
How could Qin Zhenzhen reveal the truth to him?
All she could offer was reassurance. ¡°That is in the past now. Why linger on the scenes from your dream?¡±
¡°All you need to know is that our eldest sister and niece are flourishing, leading happy lives. Wang Yizhi, the perpetrator, has faced consequences and met a gruesome end.¡±
The current Su Bin appeared consumed by his emotions, his thoughts dominated by hatred. Qin Zhenzhen recognized that divulging the truth might intensify Su Bin¡¯s animosity. It could potentially lead him down a dark path, driven by vengeful thoughts.
In the original narrative, Su Bin¡¯s character easily sumbed to a frenzied state. Regardless of the severity of the humiliation, he refused to let those who had mistreated him off the hook.
Observing Su Bin¡¯s nearly uncontroble emotions, Qin Zhenzhen understood the delicacy of the situation. After herforting words, Su Bin gradually released the hatred weighing on his heart.
¡°Wife, thank you!¡±
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but embrace Qin Zhenzhen tightly, finding sce in her presence.
If it weren¡¯t for Qin Zhenzhen, enduring those dreadful experiences might have been unbearable for Su Bin.
Fifth Brother and Sixth Sister, emaciated from hunger, haunted his thoughts. Eldest Sister and niece faced a tragic fate, and Fourth Brother endured humiliation, leaving his future in ruins.
He refused to dwell on these harrowing thoughts that had grazed past him.
¡°If I had let you go back then, would my family have been spared?¡±
Su Bin resembled a vulnerable child in that moment.
Quick to offer sce, Qin Zhenzhen reassured him, ¡°Certainly, I would have!¡±
¡°In fact, when I realized you truly disliked me, I contemted letting you go, and perhaps freeing myself as well.¡±
¡°However, the Jiang family sought to oppress us again. I had to muster the courage to seek your assistance, never expecting you would agree.¡± Su Bin confessed, ¡°By then, I had no intention of letting you go.¡± ¡°It seems fate intervened. Later on, I sensed your sincerity.¡±
Su Bin grinned. ¡°Indeed, my wife and I are destined to be together.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen breathed a sigh of relief. Su Bin had finally returned to his usual self.
Only now did she grasp that Su Bin¡¯s character from the original book still lingered. Removing his negative traits would require diligent effort on her part.
She pledged never to reveal the original plot to him. She refrained from disclosing the tragic fates of his siblings, choosing instead to selectively impart glimpses of the future.
For instance, the ill-fated love between Su Ning and the Third Prince, which ultimately led to her demise at the hands of the Third Prince¡¯s designated daughter and triggered Su Bin¡¯s own death. Sharing this information could potentially turn Su Bin against the Third Prince, so it was wiser to withhold certain details.
Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°It was an extraordinary dream. Initially, Fourth Brother and I were skeptical, but as time went on, we found ourselves yearning to have such prophetic dreams every day.¡±
¡°Regrettably, my fourth brother can¡¯t foresee the future on a daily basis. The ability to predict anyone¡¯s fate eludes him..¡±
Chapter 546 - 546: Returning to the Room to Rest
Chapter 546 - 546: Returning to the Room to Rest
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen disclosed the intricacies of the altered events due to her transmigration and Qin Silong¡¯s rebirth, which had reshaped many aspects of the original storyline.
Since they couldn¡¯t foresee the future, Qin Zhenzhen opted to transparently share the information with Su Bin.
¡°In the letter from Fourth Brother, he detailed the entire situation.¡¯
However, she chose not to reveal the letter¡¯s contents.
¡°Fourth Brother was unexpectedly promoted to the temporary head of themander. Subsequently, he had to lead five thousand troops in an unprepared attack on Three Flowers County.¡±
¡°That night, he had no dreams, unaware of the impending danger to the troops. ¡±
¡°Fortunately, the Dragon Phoenix Hall discovered Deputy General Lin¡¯s plot to harm him and Second Brother. Thanks to your timely warning, a potential disaster was averted.¡±
¡°Upon receiving the assistance you sent and implementing your strategy to circte unfavorable rumors about the Public House within the army, Fourth Brother had a lengthy dream.¡±
¡°In the dream, Deputy General Lin and Yang Qianfu orchestrated the deaths of him and Second Brother. Learning the methods employed, Second Brother retaliated, saving himself and eliminating Deputy General Lin.¡±
¡°Buoyed by the expected victory in the uing battle, Fourth Brother resolved to utilize his military achievements to offset the crime of killing Chiliarch Yang.¡±
¡°In my dream, Fourth Brother witnessed numerous casualties as the soldiers assaulted the entrance. This prompted him to inspect the mechanisms, discovering a concealed path outside the mountain leading to their location.¡±
¡°As a result, he dispatched forces to dismantle the mechanisms and executed a swift attack on the entrance.
¡°In his dream, he witnessed the tragic spectacle of soldiers storming the castle. Tens of thousands perished in the moat, their bodies filling it before the castle fell.¡¯
¡°However, the masterminds within the castle made a strategic retreat through the secret passages they had dug.¡±
¡°Fourth Brother, disying courage, opted to send individuals into the castle via the secret passage.¡±
¡°You¡¯re already aware of what ensued. No need for me to reiterate.¡±
¡°You¡¯re also aware that I was the one who formted the medicinal powder for
Fourth Brother, with an effectsting a day and night.¡± ¡°That¡¯s the situation.¡±
¡°Fourth Brother has chosen to entrust you with this secret.¡±
¡°Now, he requires your assistance.¡±
¡°Governor, please be generous. Don¡¯t hold it against Fourth Brother and me for concealing these secrets from you earlier.¡±
Su Bin seemed in good spirits, offering a smile. ¡°Even without revealing this secret, I would still aid Fourth Brother.¡±
¡°I¡¯m not a miserly person.¡±
¡°But now that I¡¯m privy to this secret, I know what to do.¡±
¡°You need not worry about assisting Fourth Brother any longer. I¡¯llmunicate with him privately.¡±
¡°Wife, just rx and take care of the baby. Leave the rest to me. I assure you everything will be fine.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Then, I won¡¯t fret about it.¡±
Crucially, she knew that even if she wanted to worry, they wouldn¡¯t allow it.
In the letter, her fourth brother had provided her with many suggestions, advising against certain actions. It was preferable to stay confined in her room and await meals, ensuring her well-being.
After all, wouldn¡¯t she be a pig awaiting its fate if she sumbed to worry?
She wouldn¡¯t merelyply with their advice.
Given her early pregnancy stage, her reactions were a bit heightened. By the third month, things would settle, and she¡¯d resume her usual activities.
Qin Zhenzhen had established a shop, a restaurant, and a health center in Shanglin Prefecture.
Suddenly, Su Bin had a realization and swiftly took Qin Zhenzhen back to her room.
¡°Wife, you shared a lot just now and seemed quite concerned. You must be exhausted. Let me carry you back to your room so you can rest..¡±
Chapter 547 - 547: High Official Barrier
Chapter 547 - 547: High Official Barrier
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
With financial resources, tasks became effortlessly manageable. Theprehensive renovation of the entire government office eradicated existing issues.
Even the previouslyckadaisical bailiffs underwent a transformation, disying newfound diligence. Their energy levels surged, and they executed their duties with a renewed vigor.
The roster for newly recruited bailiffs was finalized. As these recruits engaged in various tasks, their characters, abilities, strengths, and weaknesses were unveiled.
Under Su Bin¡¯s directives, the twelve bailiffs and four individuals in other roles were assigned the responsibility of daily observation. In the end, a written record detailing who stayed and who didn¡¯t had to be submitted,plete with the reasons for their retention or departure.
Su Bin emphasized the importance of authenticity in these reports. Any attempt to manipte information or ept bribes would result in the deduction of the promised half-month sry. He explicitly stated that bribery and favoritism would not be tolerated, and anyone engaging in such practices would be promptly dismissed.
Governor Su¡¯s efficiency and generosity were well-known, making everyone keen on retaining their positions. They diligently assessed the neers and collectively rejected any attempts to use nepotism.
Following thepletion of the government office¡¯s repairs, the selection process for those staying behindmenced. Surprisingly, the individuals chosen to remainrgely ovepped, reflecting a consensus among the evaluators.
There were only one or two discrepancies in the reports they submitted, which were subsequently reviewed by Mr. Chen to assess their observation skills.
Su Bin was highly content with the evaluation.
The twelve new bailiffs who remained showcased notable strengths, with their unity and camaraderie standing out.
Just a day after the government office¡¯s repair, Su Bin issued another public announcement. Any individuals who had experienced injustice were encouraged to report it. Governor Su pledged to conduct a transparent and impartial investigation.
Despite Su Bin having been in office for over half a month, no reports had been filed. Did this signify that Shanglin Prefecture was genuinely peaceful? The answer was a resounding ¡®no.¡¯
Mr. Chen had investigated and found that there were indeed cases to report.
However,mon people hesitated toe forward. Viins in Shanglin Prefecture City coborated with mountain bandits, causing intimidation and fear among the residents. Reporting to the authorities could lead to retaliation, as these viins were ruthless and could pose a threat to anyone who dared to speak up.
The mountain bandits, known for their brutality, demanded silver aspensation for sparing lives. Individuals suffering from oppression were reluctant to risk their lives by reporting such incidents. Even in disputes amongmoners, reporting to officials incurred additional expenses, as hiring someone to draft aint required a legal fee.
In this atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, many chose to endure their grievances rather than seek justice through official channels.
The government office had a high threshold, making entry difficult without sufficient funds. If someonecked money, they were discouraged from seeking assistance.
In the case of a murder, individuals were more likely to report it. However, these incidents often resulted in deaths, as the culprits were typically mountain bandits. The bailiffscked the capability to apprehend individuals in the mountains and had to plead with the bandits to avoid causing trouble at the government office.
With no recent reports of murder, it seemed thatmoners were holding back, waiting to observe the new governor. Despite many having read the government¡¯s announcement, no one had stepped forward to report any cases.
In recent days, the mountain bandits likely observed the situation but refrained from causing trouble..
Chapter 548 - 548: Suspicion
Chapter 548 - 548: Suspicion
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
On the third day since the notice had been posted, a surprising silence lingered; no one hade forward to voice anyints.
The bandits emerging from the mountains to gather information surprisingly refrained from causing trouble, at least for the time being.
The yamen showed no signs of a case backlog.
Su Bin found himself with an unusual amount of free time, prompting him to delve into the details of a case previously adjudicated by the former governor.
Over the preceding six months, the prior governor had only dealt with a singr murder case.
The widow, Zhang Lin¡¯er, had enticed Wang Nian, a resident from the same street. Following their intimate encounter, Zhang Lin¡¯er berated Wang Nian for not formalizing their rtionship. The ensuing argument escted, leading to Wang Nian¡¯s fatal stabbing by Zhang Lin¡¯er.
Upon her arrest, Zhang Lin¡¯er readily confessed to the murder and was subsequently sentenced to execution after the autumn season, currently confined in a solitary cell.
Remarkably, hers was the sole upant in the dozens of cells, transformed into temporary water prisons due to the rain before repairs.
Despite the grim circumstances, Zhang Lin¡¯er maintained a stoic demeanor, exhibiting neither agitation nor any inclination to escape. Her only pursuit seemed to be a quiet wait for the impending autumn death.
Upon Su Bin¡¯s initial examination, a sense of unease enveloped the case. Zhang Lin¡¯er, in her early twenties, was renowned for her beauty. Despite the demise of all her husband¡¯s family members, the two remaining family shops should have provided sufficient ie through rent collection, eliminating the threat of starvation.
Furthermore, numerous suitors were eager to vie for her hand, making it puzzling that she would be entangled with Wang Nian. Wang Nian, aged over 30 with a facial scar and a tarnished reputation, seemed an unlikely candidate for an affair, let alone a tragic end in Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s bed.
Chen Lin¡¯er openly confessed to being the perpetrator of Wang Nian¡¯s murder.
Su Bin had interrogated Poxed Face Wang and Liu Dazhuang, but Madam Zhang¡¯s confession wasn¡¯t extracted through torture; she merely signed it.
While repairing the government office, Su Bin and Mr. Chen ndestinely revisited the case, uncovering additional points of suspicion.
It was alleged that Wang Nian, the victim, had colluded with mountain bandits, habitually bullying individuals in the vicinity.
Chen Lin¡¯er, an orphan adopted by her husband¡¯s family,cked knowledge of her biological family¡¯s whereabouts.
Despite being a child bride, she received exceptional treatment from her husband¡¯s family, never experiencing any mistreatment.
Upon reaching maturity, they sessfully married, and she bore a son andter a daughter.
However, misfortune struck her household.
Initially, her inws faced a fatal ident, resulting in their demise.
Soon after, her husband fell critically ill and passed away.
Subsequently, her son and daughter were abducted by mountain bandits. Before she could sell the family shop to rescue them, the bandits cruelly tore them apart.
During this tumultuous period, she appeared to have descended into a state of madness.
Subsequently, Wang Nian, a fellow resident of the same street, enlisted the services of a doctor to aid in Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s recovery from her madness.
As she slowly regained her mental faculties, no one anticipated her forming a romantic rtionship with Wang Nian.
Wang Nian, desiring marriage, proposed to Chen Lin¡¯er. Upon learning of her reluctance, he suggested bing his official wife. However, this proposition proved impossible due to Wang Nian¡¯s existing marriage; his wife¡¯s brother held a prominent position among the mountain bandits and enjoyed the favor of their leader. Divorcing his wife would likely result in severe consequences, possibly costing him his life.
Tragically, the situation took a dark turn ¡ª one life was ended by a fatal stabbing, while the other faced a death sentence.
Following Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s imprisonment, her two shops werepensated to Wang Nian¡¯s family, but tensions red with Wang Nian¡¯s formidable wife.
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s uncles and brothers expressed a desire to contest the ownership of the shops. In response, Wang Nian¡¯s wife issued a stern warning: ¡°If you want to avoid ruin,e and try to take them!¡±
Faced with this intimidating threat, those seeking to im the shops reluctantly abandoned their pursuit.
Spection among the locals pointed to the mountain bandits as the orchestrators of the tragedies in Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s household. Allegedly, her parents-inw¡¯s demise, initially deemed an ident, was orchestrated by the bandits. Simrly, her husband¡¯s demise was attributed to illness following a beating by the bandits, and the children met their tragic end at the hands of the same criminals. The masterminds behind this series of misfortunes were believed to be Wang Nian and his wife..
Chapter 549 - 549: Rather Die
Chapter 549 - 549: Rather Die
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Generally speaking, challenging a verdict required filing an appeal. However, in ancient times, once a person confessed and a judgment was rendered, the opportunity for appeal was nonexistent. Logically, imprisoned individualscked the liberty to appeal.
If there was a desire to overturn a case, it fell upon the shoulders of the implicated person¡¯s rtives to voice their grievances. The hierarchical structure left no room for jumping levels.
Su Bin expressed a willingness to show leniency; upon the appeal by Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s rtives, he would reconsider the case.
Nevertheless, Mr. Chen took matters into his own hands and hinted to Chen Lin¡¯er that the new governor might be able to vindicate her.
Chen Lin¡¯er, however, rebuffed the offer. ¡°I didmit murder. There¡¯s no justice.¡±
Mr. Chen reminded her, ¡°While you did take a life, circumstances matter. If there¡¯s evidence supporting the notion that the person you killed deserved it or if you had no alternative at the time, the verdict could differ.¡±
Coldly, Chen Lin¡¯er inquired, ¡°How would it differ?¡±
Mr. Chen elucidated, ¡°You wouldn¡¯t face the death penalty.¡±
Scoffing, Chen Lin¡¯er replied, ¡°Really?¡±
¡°You won¡¯t face execution, but you might be sentenced to serve in the army,¡± Mr. Chen exined. ¡°You could be sent to a military camp, potentially facing a life of servitude as a means of contributing to the country.¡±
¡°From now on, I¡¯ll be a ve for the rest of my life. Even if I bear children, I¡¯ll be perpetually bound to servitude, continuing to serve the country.¡±
¡°Is this why the governor wanted you to convince me to alter my confession?¡±
¡°It¡¯s termed ¡®waste utilization,¡¯ isn¡¯t it?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s emotions surged as she neared the end, her excitement uncontroble.
¡°Go back and ry to your governor that his efforts are in vain!¡±
¡°Not to mention his inability to resist those influential figures, even if he could, I¡¯d sooner face death than alter my confession! I won¡¯t endure the
hardships of a military camp!¡±
¡°In just three months, autumn will arrive, and I¡¯ll be reunited with my family. Hahaha, I¡¯ve been longing for this day!¡±
Mr. Chen was visibly taken aback.
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s words cut deep, defying expectations.
She didn¡¯t resemble a woman sheltered from the harsh realities of the world.
Yet, Mr. Chen had pored over Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s background. She was merely an uneducated girl who had escaped from rural life.
Chen Lin¡¯er, an orphan from another city, had wandered into Shanglin Prefecture at the tender age of seven or eight. She had begged for food alongside others fleeing the wilderness, surviving on the streets of Shanglin Prefecture. When she was on the brink of starvation, her inws had found her and brought her into their home.
d in tattered boys¡¯ clothes at the time, it was only upon closer inspection that they realized she was a girl.
Her husband¡¯s family, known for their kindness, had offered her the chance to stay as a child bride. After a few days of observation, she had silently agreed.
When she washed the dirt from her face and donned the girl¡¯s clothes, everyone realized she was a beauty.
Since joining her husband¡¯s household, their lives had steadily improved.
Initially, her father-inw assisted the boss in managing the shop and worked as a waiter. Eventually, he ventured into his own business, saved money, and acquired two interconnected shops.
Chen Lin¡¯er opened a grocery store, got married, and gave birth to a son and a daughter.
As their lives flourished, an unfortunate series of events abruptly shattered their family.
Mr. Chen conveyed to Su Bin everything Chen Lin¡¯er had uttered, capturing her anger and despair.
Su Bin was puzzled.
Why would Chen Lin¡¯er say such things?
Had someone coerced her into signing the confession with threats?
Choosing a straightforward death would spare her from torture.
She preferred death over the prospect of bing an official prostitute.
Unable toprehend, Su Bin confided in Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Wife, help me understand why Chen Lin¡¯er became so distressed at the mention of going to a military camp as an official prostitute, losing control in the process..¡±
Chapter 550 - 550: Fragrance
Chapter 550 - 550: Fragrance
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen found herself at a loss for an immediate response to the question posed. However, she couldn¡¯t help but contemte, ¡°If it were a woman, the prospect of being consigned to a military camp as a military prostitute would likely elicit strong repulsion, wouldn¡¯t it?¡±
Su Bin calmly interjected, ¡°Excitement is a natural reaction. It¡¯s normal to resist such a proposition. But, did she anticipate that, in the event of a sessful case reversal and her survival, she would end up in a military camp?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen wondered whether Chen Lin¡¯er had received this information from someone else or if it was a conclusion she had drawn independently.
¡°A young girl who escaped from the countryside,¡± Su Bin continued, ¡°Upon arriving at her husband¡¯s home, she primarily engaged in domestic chores and had limited exposure to the outside world. Yet, she expressed these thoughts.¡±
The notion of serving the country and being treated as expendable didn¡¯t align with the expectations for an uneducated woman. Su Bin began harboring suspicions about Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s background.
Considering the unique challenges faced by women, Qin Zhenzhen asserted, ¡°If you genuinely wish to assist Chen Lin¡¯er in overturning her case, I am willing to meet with her.¡±
Recognizing the distinctive approach needed for counseling, Qin Zhenzhen believed she could connect with Chen Lin¡¯er in a way that Mr. Chen and Su Bin might not. She trusted Su Bin¡¯s determination, knowing he wouldn¡¯t pursue this unless confident of sess.
Su Bin¡¯smitment to overturning Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s case was not solely about personal achievement. It was an opportunity to distinguish himself from the previous governor, demonstrating a genuinemitment to the well-being of the people.
In a strategic alliance with the Third Prince and Lin Yue, they aimed to use this case as a warning to the mountain bandits, urging them to refrain from descending into the valleys to wreak havoc. The message was clear: burning, killing, and looting would not go unpunished, and innocent civilians must be spared. Lin Yue and the others were prepared to handle any bandits who disregarded this stern warning.
Su Bin¡¯s focus extended beyond the mountain¡¯s boundaries, directing his attention to those individuals colluding with the bandits, wreaking havoc in the region. Hismitment was clear: apprehend each wrongdoer and administer punishmentmensurate with their crimes to restore a semnce of normalcy in Shanglin Prefecture.
Qin Zhenzhen sensed Su Bin¡¯s intention to create distance between himself and
Chen Lin¡¯er. Despite this, Su Bin hesitated to permit Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s visit to Chen Lin¡¯er, expressing concern for her well-being, especially considering her pregnancy.
Asserting her own resilience, Qin Zhenzhen insisted, ¡°You underestimate my strength. I won¡¯t let a few scoldings trouble me, especially at this crucial time.¡±
Undeterred, she proposed, ¡°I¡¯ll go myself.¡±
Exining her motivation, Qin Zhenzhen shared insights gleaned from public discussions on Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s case. Many believed Chen Lin¡¯er was not colluding with Wang Nian but rather being targeted by him. Rumors suggested that Wang Nian and the mountain bandits had inflicted harm on her family, potentially leading to the fatal confrontation.
¡°Some im Wang Nian assaulted her,¡± Qin Zhenzhen continued, ¡°and that she retaliated due to suspicions of her family¡¯s harm.¡±
Expressing her own curiosity about the case¡¯s intricacies, she dered, ¡°I want to understand the cause and effect of this situation.¡¯
Defying Su Bin¡¯s reservations, Qin Zhenzhen visited Chen Lin¡¯er the next day, bringing a basket of food. As the enticing aroma filled the cell upon unveiling the basket, Chen Lin¡¯er, touched by the gesture, couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of emotion, almost on the verge of tears.
The aroma stirred memories long forgotten, a fragrance she hadn¡¯t experienced in ages.
In the cell, each person was allocated three meals, consisting mainly of porridge and pickled vegetables, with an asional morsel of meat. Rumor had it that Uncle Zhao, the cook, had sacrificed his own portion for her. Uncle Zhao, acquainted with Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s father-inw, couldn¡¯t bear to witness her endure hunger.
In the world of the cell, rules dictated that prisoners were not entitled to a full meal or the luxury of meat. The intent was to keep them perpetually hungry, with growling stomachs and blurred vision, rendering them too weak to contemte escape. This strategy also made it more manageable for the vignt bailiffs tasked with their watch.
These were the unspoken regtions within the confines of the government office..
Chapter 551 - 551: Come Again Tomorrow
Chapter 551 - 551: Come Again Tomorrow
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen carefully arranged the dishes in front of Chen Lin¡¯er, who appeared perplexed.
¡°Is this my final meal?¡± Chen Lin¡¯er questioned, uncertainty clouding her expression. Was she about to face her fate before the autumn leaves descended? Was this the toll for her outspokenness, or was the new governor intending to make an example of one to warn many?
The notion of partaking in a satisfying meal before departing evoked conflicting emotions. On one hand, the prospect of freedom brought joy; she could finally reunite with her family¡ªparents, inws, and her child. Yet, the shadow of sorrow loomed, casting a pall over her wretched existence.
Her life had been an odyssey of hardships, prompting introspection. If it were karmic retribution, she pondered whether her past deeds warranted such profound suffering. She wished fervently that the pain she endured would spare her in the next life.
Qin Zhenzhen observed the subtle shifts in Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s demeanor. It became evident that the woman harbored an unwillingness to sumb easily to death. If she truly sought an escape, Qin Zhenzhen reasoned, she would have taken her own life long ago, employing various methods like hanging or starvation, actions that might have gone unnoticed by the apathetic night watchmen.
Su Bin¡¯s administration had introduced a strict protocol for the night watch, unveilingpses in their vignce. First offense warranted a warning, followed by a half-month¡¯s sry deduction for the second, and a full month¡¯s deduction for the third¡ªa measure to ensure the guards maintained vignce during their shifts.
A fourthpse in vignce during night watch duties would result in immediate termination without any exnation.
Seeking to ease Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s apprehension, Qin Zhenzhen reassured her, ¡°Don¡¯t overthink it. This is definitely not yourst meal.¡±
Perplexed, Chen Lin¡¯er questioned, ¡°Then, did you bring the wrong food?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°No mistake. You¡¯re the sole upant of this cell. I personally prepared these dishes. Can you do me the honor of trying them?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er, still bewildered, asked, ¡°Who are you? Why are you cooking for
¡°I¡¯m Su Bin¡¯s wife, Qin Zhenzhen,¡± came the calm response.
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re Divine Doctor Qin? The creator of Zhenzhen¡¯s seasoning?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen affirmed, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s me. It¡¯s surprising you¡¯re familiar with my work.¡±
A flicker of hope briefly illuminated Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s eyes, only to be extinguished as she questioned, ¡°Are you here to persuade me to overturn the case?¡±
Shaking her head, Qin Zhenzhen rified, ¡°Whether you choose to challenge the case is entirely up to you. No one can force such a decision. I¡¯m here simply to bring you food.¡±
Acknowledging the gravity of Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s experiences, Qin Zhenzhen expressed, ¡°I believe your journey has been incredibly painful. As a woman, I want to contribute in any way I can, like preparing a meal and witnessing you enjoy it.¡±
Silently, Chen Lin¡¯er took up her chopsticks. Starting with deliberate savoring, she gradually transitioned to hearty bites. Eventually, tears streamed down her face¡ªa poignant testament to the unprecedented delight she found in the delectable meal.
This urrence was unprecedented. If there lingered any hint of nostalgia within her for this world, it unequivocally resided in these meticulously crafted dishes.
Divine Doctor Qin was renowned not only for her exceptional medical skills but also for her unparalleled culinary prowess. The magical touch of her seasoning was a testament to her culinary wizardry, making the experience all the more enchanting.
The prospect of personally savoring Divine Doctor Qin¡¯s culinary creations filled Chen Lin¡¯er with a sense of fulfillment. It was a satisfaction she could embrace without any lingering regrets.
True to her expectations, Qin Zhenzhen refrained from urging Chen Lin¡¯er to challenge the case or providing persuasive arguments. Yet, as Qin Zhenzhen prepared to depart, Chen Lin¡¯er couldn¡¯t suppress the yearning in her voice, ¡°Mrs. Su, will you visit again?¡±
Meeting Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s gaze, Qin Zhenzhen countered with a question, ¡°Would you like me to return?¡±
After a moment of contemtion, Chen Lin¡¯er nodded. ¡°I hope to see you again. ¡±
Qin Zhenzhen affirmed, ¡°Alright, I¡¯lle again tomorrow..¡±
Chapter 552 - 552: Collusion
Chapter 552 - 552: Collusion
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
As promised, Qin Zhenzhen arrived the next day, bearing a basket of fragrant food. She shared with Chen Lin¡¯er, ¡°I prepared this myself.¡±
This time, Chen Lin¡¯er ate with remarkable grace, showcasing a refinement not typically associated with a vige woman. After finishing the meal, she delicately set down her bowl and chopsticks.
¡°Mrs. Su, thank you for the food. It¡¯s delicious¡ªthe best I¡¯ve ever had,¡± Chen Lin¡¯er expressed sincerely.
Qin Zhenzhen responded, ¡°You¡¯re wee. It was no trouble at all.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er, ovee with emotion, confided, ¡°Even though I¡¯m confined here, I¡¯ve heard about the happenings outside. I know the new governor, who is also the Primus, was demoted here due to some offense. I¡¯m aware of your remarkable medical skills and your current pregnancy, which must be challenging.¡±
¡°It¡¯s no small feat to cook for amoner when you¡¯re not feeling well,¡± Chen Lin¡¯er continued.
Qin Zhenzhen reassured her with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m much better now. Cooking a few dishes won¡¯t tire me out.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er wiped away tears, saying, ¡°Mrs. Su, you¡¯ve put in a lot of effort. I understand your intention. It¡¯s not that I genuinely want to die, but flipping this case seems impossible.¡±
Attempting to offer encouragement, Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°If you don¡¯t try, how can you be certain it¡¯s impossible?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er, with a bitter smile, responded, ¡°I know Governor Su is new in office and is determined tobat evil forces. However, I¡¯d still advise him to think twice before acting.¡±
Perplexed, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Why would he need to think twice? As an official, he should work for the people and eliminate all evil forces.¡± Chen Lin¡¯er shook her head. ¡°You can¡¯t defeat those people.¡±
Curious, Qin Zhenzhen pressed, ¡°Who are these people?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er remained silent for a moment before divulging to Qin Zhenzhen,
¡°I¡¯m referring to the malevolent figures in the mountains.¡±
¡°They¡¯re a band of desperadoes, employing ruthless and inhumane methods!¡±
¡°Wang Nian relied on their support, orchestrating the massacre of my rtives and plotting against me. Even when I cried out, Heaven remained unresponsive. That¡¯s why I lured him into their trap and ensured his demise!¡±
Observing Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s anger, Qin Zhenzhen decided to stoke the mes. ¡°It¡¯s regrettable that only Wang Nian met his end, but he isn¡¯t your sole adversary.¡±
¡°Your business has also fallen into the clutches of the Wang family.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s fury intensified. ¡°Mrs. Su, you¡¯re correct. I have many enemies¡ªthose mountain bandits and Wang Nian¡¯s wife, Ms. Zhang!¡±
She attributed the coboration with the mountain bandits and the attack on her family to Ms. Zhang, fostering an intense desire for vengeance. The mere thought of her shop falling into enemy hands fueled a fervent wish to transform into a ghost and choke Ms. Zhang to death.
Seizing the moment, Qin Zhenzhen interjected, ¡°If the case is sessfully overturned, not only will your life be spared, but justice will be served. Your shop can also be reimed.¡±
Despite this offer, Chen Lin¡¯er remained steadfast in opposing the case¡¯s reversal.
¡°Mrs. Su, I know you¡¯re a kind person, and I don¡¯t want to see you harmed!¡± ¡°To Governor Su, from the Court of Judicial Review to Shanglin, the corruption within the bureaucracy is evident. However, I want to caution you that beyond officials shielding each other, there are even more disturbing alliances between officials and bandits.
¡°Therefore, you can¡¯t beat them!¡± Chen Lin¡¯er asserted firmly.
Qin Zhenzhen, taken aback, questioned, ¡°Coboration between officials and bandits? Are you suggesting they are in league with the previous governors, exining their audacious behavior?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er shook her head. ¡°You¡¯ve misunderstood. The governors are actually afraid of them. None dare confront or challenge them. The only way they survive is by feigning ignorance andpliance.¡±
¡°Really?¡± Juan looked like a giant dog, with his ears perked up and his tail wagging. He was so excited that he didn¡¯t know how to express himself.
Chapter 553 - 553: Details
Chapter 553 - 553: Details
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Chen Lin¡¯er nodded solemnly. ¡°A very, very high-ranking official.¡±
Frowning, Qin Zhenzhen sought rification, ¡°That prominent official?¡±
Without hesitation, Chen Lin¡¯er whispered to Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°It¡¯s the Public House!¡±
Shock registered on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s face. ¡°How did you discover this?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er exined, ¡°I identally learned it from Wang Nian.¡± ¡°I initially vowed to bring down Wang Nian¡¯s familypletely!¡±
¡°But upon learning this secret, I realized that no one can aid me. My only recourse is to use a certain method to take down one of them.¡¯
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t doubt Chen Lin¡¯er; she was merely astonished.
The revtion that the mountain bandits were colluding with the Public House implied that these seemingly ruthless bandits were, in fact, under the control of a powerful government organization.
Questions flooded Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mind. Why would the Public House covertly nurture individuals in a bandit¡¯sir? Didn¡¯t they have enough manpower on the surface? The capital outskirts reportedly housed several secret training bases. Yet, even in a remote location like Shanglin, their influence persisted.
Understanding dawned on Qin Zhenzhen. The audacity of the Shanglin bandits, left unchecked by imperial troops, was attributed to the covert operations of the Public House.
Shanglin Prefecture, perceived as economically modest, had minimal tax revenues. Its size was rtively small, making the bandits¡¯ disruptions seemingly inconsequential. The perilous mountain terrain provided a natural defense, rendering the bandits challenging to subdue. Rather than deploying a substantial force to encircle and annihte them¡ªa costly and time-consuming endeavor¡ªthe imperial court had chosen to overlook them.
The Emperor¡¯s trust in the Public House raised questions in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mind. Was the Public House plotting rebellion?
Carefully reflecting on the plot from the book, she couldn¡¯t recall any mention of the Public House harboring rebellious intentions. The narrative hinted that the Eighth Imperial Uncle, with support from the Jiang family, swiftly dismantled the Public House and its forces through forceful methods and poison.
Another possibility emerged: the Public House might have recently taken control of these bandits.
Seeking more rity, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°Can you provide more details?¡±
Her intent was to ry these specifics to Su Bin for his assessment of Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s credibility.
Based on information gathered by the Dragon Phoenix Hall, the mountain bandits were divided into two major factions, each upying a separate mountain. One group had confirmed ties to remnants of the previous dynasty, while the other,rger faction remained unidentified.
Chen Lin¡¯er agreed, saying, ¡°Certainly.¡±
She began narrating the tragic fate of her family. Originally residing in a small mountain vige, her husband¡¯s family had migrated to the city when her father-inw, an apprentice, garnered appreciation from his employer. Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s mother-inw proved to be industrious. Upon entering the city, she extended her assistance to affluent families. Despite residing in a modest space within the city, their outlook remained optimistic, markedly improvedpared to their small vige life.
Subsequently, they weed the birth of a son and, through diligent savings, managed to acquire a small house at the street¡¯s end. Chen Lin¡¯er then became the bride of their son.
Blessed with a husband astute beyond his years, they heeded Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s counsel, initiating a small business venture. Over time, their efforts bore fruit as they umted wealth, purchasing two shops. Their family¡¯s circumstances flourished.
The bandits surrounding Shanglin Prefecture, known for their audacity, demanded protection fees from merchants. Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s family, conscious of their safety, dutifully paid these fees without umting debt.
Initially, the mountain bandits adhered to a sense of reason. After receiving the protection fee, they refrained from troubling the paying merchants for a year.
However, adversity arose when Ms. Zhang, Wang Nian¡¯s wife, set her sights on Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s shop..
Chapter 554 - 554: A Series of Vicious Scheme
Chapter 554 - 554: A Series of Vicious Scheme
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Ms. Zhang, Wang Nian¡¯s wife, and her brother held positions of influence within the mountain bandit¡¯s enve. While not the leaders, they functioned as the right-hand individuals to the bandit leaders.
Ms. Zhang, known for her indolence, and Wang Nian,cking substantial wealth, relied on aiding the bandits to secure ie. However, thepensation received from the bandits was meager and insufficient to cover Ms. Zhang and Wang Nian¡¯s expenses.
Ms. Zhang¡¯s covetous eyes fixated on Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s shop. She envisioned the prosperity that woulde with possessing both establishments. Even if she refrained from conducting business, the monthly rent alone would generate substantial ie. This seemed like a perpetual source of sustenance, a financial legacy for future generations.
Thus, Ms. Zhang and Wang Nian conspired to acquire Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s shop.
Wang Nian and Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s husband had shared a close friendship since childhood. However, as Wang Nian married and colluded with the mountain bandits, Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s husband distanced himself, warning Wang Nian against assisting the bandits, foreseeing the retribution he might face.
Despite these warnings, Wang Nian, enticed by the allure of wealth, strayed further down a morally crooked path.
When Ms. Zhang pressured Wang Nian to devise a n, he hesitated. The idea of harming Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s family seemed inhumane, especially considering their past camaraderie. Yet, Wang Nian¡¯s insatiable greed ultimately triumphed over any remaining sense of brotherhood.
Wang Nian coborated with his wife¡¯s brother to craft a sinister scheme. The first step involved orchestrating an ident, where a seemingly uncontroble horse pulling a carriage fatally struck down Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s parents-inw.
Seizing the opportunity, Wang Nian extended apparent sympathy and volunteered assistance. Under the guise of consoling her bereaved brother, he frequently brought evening side dishes, sharing drinks with Chen Lin¡¯er.
During these interactions, Wang Nian artfully conveyed his desire to sever ties with his wife¡¯s brothers and turn over a new leaf. Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s husband, grappling with a somber mood, sumbed to Wang Nian¡¯s deceptive charm and did not refuse hispany.
Unexpectedly, Wang Nian betrayed this trust by introducing a slow-acting poison into Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s husband¡¯s food, ensuring that death would not be immediate but an inevitable rpse after a few days, rendering any remedy futile.
Chen Lin¡¯er initially attributed her husband¡¯s sudden demise to illness. However, her ordeal worsened when a group of masked bandits infiltrated their home one night, kidnapping her two children and leaving behind a chilling letter. The letter demanded 1,000 taels of silver within three days, threatening the children¡¯s lives if she dared involve the authorities. The ominous message warned that reporting the incident would result in her child¡¯s death.
Overwhelmed with anxiety, Chen Lin¡¯er realized the masked abductors were the mountain bandits. Fearing the futility of reporting to the authorities and the potential harm it could bring to her child, she found herself trapped in a dire predicament.
Faced with the desperate situation, Chen Linter hurriedly arranged for the announcement of the shop¡¯s sale. Subsequently, she sought out Wang Nian, imploring him to intervene with the mountain bandits. She fervently pleaded for a reduction in the ransom, stressing the immense difficulty of garnering a thousand taels of silver from the sale of her two shops. Chen Lin¡¯er recognized the practical challenges¡ªselling the shops quickly at a high price was an arduous task, often requiring more time unless offered at a distressingly low rate.
Caught in a dilemma, Chen Lin¡¯er contemted selling the shop at a reduced price to swiftly gather funds for her children¡¯s rescue. However, she was acutely aware that selling at a lower price wouldplicate the challenge of umting the remaining funds needed.
Recognizing the financial limitations of her husband¡¯s impoverished rural rtives, Chen Lin¡¯er found herself at a loss for support. Tearfully, she pleaded with Wang Nian, ¡°If they won¡¯t reduce the price, please implore them to grant me a few additional days. I¡¯ll sell the house, the shop, the gold, and the jewelry.
I¡¯m determined to gather the necessary funds to ransom my children..¡±
Chapter 555 - 555: Fainted
Chapter 555 - 555: Fainted
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Wang Nian, grappling with inner conflict, expressed his predicament to Chen Lin¡¯er. ¡°You know I¡¯ve severed ties with my wife¡¯s brother. I¡¯vemitted to turning over a new leaf and being a better person.¡±
¡°My wife¡¯s brother has made it clear that he doesn¡¯t want to see me again. He even threatened to kill me if I lingered. Now, when I need his help, I¡¯m uncertain if he¡¯ll receive me. Even if he does, I don¡¯t know if he¡¯ll resort to violence.¡±
Observing Wang Nian¡¯s dilemma, Chen Lin¡¯er, tearfully kneeling before him, pleaded, ¡°Brother Wang Nian, please help me for the sake of the child¡¯s father!¡±
Wang Nian hesitated, but his wife, Ms. Zhang, intervened with a tearful plea, kicking him and saying, ¡°Saving a life is more crucial than building a seven-story pagoda! You must help, even if you¡¯re reluctant!¡±
Ms. Zhang further entreated Wang Nian, offering him another earring. ¡°Take this earring with you. My brother won¡¯t harm you if you have this.¡±
Reluctantly, Wang Nian agreed to Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s request. ¡°I¡¯ll try my best to persuade them to reduce the ransom. If that¡¯s not possible, I¡¯ll plead for a few more days.¡±
Despite warnings about Wang Nian¡¯s unreliability, Chen Lin¡¯er had no alternative. He was the sole person capable ofmunicating with the mountain bandits.
Wang Nian returned the next day with devastating news¡ªboth children were already dead. The abductors had rendered them unconscious with a palm strike, subsequently cing them in cloth bags for transport to the mountain. Upon reaching their destination, the assants discovered the children unresponsive, possibly sumbing to suffocation or an excessively forceful strike.
Chen Lin¡¯er lost consciousness on the spot.
Upon awakening, she heard Wang Nian recounting, ¡°I pleaded extensively before those people allowed me to meet my wife¡¯s brother.¡±
¡°However, my wife¡¯s brother denied involvement, iming it was another group responsible.¡±
¡°I implored my wife¡¯s brother to take me to speak with this other group, and after much persuasion, he agreed.¡±
¡°Upon meeting them, I observed that they were fierce-looking individuals, seemingly ready to devour anyone. They differed significantly from my wife¡¯s brother.¡±
¡°I gathered my courage and proposed lowering the ransom to 800 taels, citing the limitations of the value of your shop and house. Surprisingly, the leader readily agreed, granting us additional days.¡±
¡°Yet, something felt off. Why were these malevolent individuals so cooperative? I couldn¡¯t shake the strange look in the leader¡¯s eyes. It made my heart skip a beat. Could something be amiss?¡±
¡°I immediately requested to see the child. He grew furious, shouting, ¡®What are you looking at? Hurry up and go back to get the money. Do you believe that I¡¯ll kill them immediately?¡±¡®
¡°Frightened but concerned, I discreetly tugged at my wife¡¯s brother¡¯s clothes, pleading for his assistance.¡±
¡°My wife¡¯s brother intervened, telling the leader, ¡®As bandits, we have our own rules. It¡¯s not excessive to allow the hostages¡¯ family to see them.¡±¡®
¡°However, the boss adamantly refused toply. Just as the tension peaked, another man entered, inquiring, ¡®Should we bury the corpses of the two children first, or wait until we receive the ransom before returning them to their families?¡±¡®
¡°I was stunned to hear this revtion: Were they already dead?¡±
¡°As the truth unraveled, the boss had no choice but to admit the tragic reality..¡±
Chapter 556 - 556: Revenge
Chapter 556 - 556: Revenge
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Those two adorable children died just like that. I endured my grief and wanted to bring them back, but that boss refused.¡±
¡°He said fiercely: Go back and tell their mother that if she wants the child¡¯s corpse, she has to exchange it for fifty taels of silver! Otherwise, she will be thrown into the mountains to feed the wild beasts!¡±
¡°He also said that they were already unlucky enough. They didn¡¯t get anything after going down the mountain and only carried two corpses. Wouldn¡¯t they lose more if they didn¡¯t return some money as travel expenses?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er rushed into the mountain as if she had gone crazy.
Her husband¡¯s uncles and brothers had gathered enough money and followed her to the mountain to carry the two children back. They buried them beside her husband.
At this moment, she felt that there was definitely something wrong with Wang Nian.
As she had expected, Wang Nian and his wife came to her house every day in the name of taking care of her. Wang Nian even deliberately approached her, touched her, and even hugged her.
One night, when Ms. Zhang was not around, Wang Nian tried to force her, but she resisted.
The next day, she revealed what Wang Nian had done to the public, but everyone who heard said that she was crazy and delusional.
This was because Wang Nian and his wife had already told everyone two days ago that she was sometimes sober and sometimes delirious. She would treat Wang Nian as her dead husband.
Ms. Zhang said that sometimes Chen Lin¡¯er would hug and kiss Wang Nian. If she rejected her, she would go crazy and only let her do whatever she wanted, then she would be quieter.
Ms. Zhang did not want to argue with her for the sake of her miserable condition.
Wang Nian was the same. On ount of their past rtionship, he did not want to agitate her.
If possible, he wanted to marry her as an equal wife and be on equal footing with Madam Zhang. This way, he could take care of her for the rest of his life.
At this moment, Chen Lin¡¯er finally understood that her family¡¯s misfortune was nned by Wang Nian and his wife!
They had harmed her entire family, and then they had drugged her food, making her excited. Others thought that she had gone crazy thinking about her husband.
Wang Nian took the opportunity to marry her. She wanted to upy her house and shop officially!
After understanding the cause and effect, Chen Lin¡¯er calmed down.
She knew that it was useless to report it to the officials. The officials did not want to provoke those bandits, nor would they provoke people who knew that they were rted to the bandits. They would be worried that if they captured Wang Nian, they would be killed.
Moreover, she did not have any real evidence.
She also knew that it was useless not to agree to Wang Nian. They would always have a way to force her to submit.
For example, forcefully feeding her medicine would turn her into a real lunatic. After marrying her and killing her, her assets would be their family¡¯s.
If she wanted to take revenge, she had to rely on herself.
However, how could a weak woman like her defeat them?
She wanted to go over and die, but she was unwilling.
In the end, she decided to take revenge before she died.
She wanted to pretend that she did not know the evil deeds of Wang Nian and his wife and invite them to eat to poison them.
However, she realized that Wang Nian carried silver needles with him. As long as it was food she made, he would use the silver needles to try.
Poisoning was impossible.
She was a weak woman. If she used force, she would definitely lose.
She could only use the method that she was most unwilling to use.
She pretended to promise Wang Nian that she would marry him, but when Wang Nian divorced Ms. Zhang, she did not want aplicated rtionship with two women and one man.
When Wang Nian heard that Chen Lin¡¯er was willing to marry him, he was overjoyed. He coaxed Chen Lin¡¯er, ¡°Good girl, now is not the time. If I divorce her, her brother will definitely find trouble with us. At that time, both of us will be in danger.¡±
¡°Why don¡¯t you enter the household first, and then I¡¯ll think of a way to handle the situation!¡±
Chapter 557 - 557: Torturing the Enemy
Chapter 557 - 557: Torturing the Enemy
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°You don¡¯t know, but I¡¯ve had enough of her long ago! She¡¯szy and just takes advantage of her brothers in the mountains. She¡¯s unreasonable and wants to ride above me in everything.¡±
¡°Besides, she¡¯s ugly and not even one percent as beautiful as you. After I have you, I definitely won¡¯t touch her again. I¡¯ll only dote on you,¡± Wang Nian said.
He thought that Chen Lin¡¯er had finally figured it out. A woman had no one to rely on. She had to find a backer in the end.
Chen Lin¡¯er pretended to request, ¡°If you want to keep your word, it¡¯s best if you kill her before you marry me!¡±
However, the cunning Wang Nian suggested instead, ¡°Why don¡¯t the two of us have a physical rtionship first before I deal with her?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er had no choice but to agree to submit to him first.
She nned to let Wang Nian kill Ms. Zhang first, and then she would take revenge on Wang Nian.
Then she realized that Wang Nian did not dare to offend Ms. Zhang at all.
She decided to settle for the next best thing and only kill Wang Nian.
However, it was not easy to kill Wang Nian.
Wang Nian was very vignt. Even during intimate moments, he was always on guard against her.
She could only hold back her tears and use all her treasures to seduce him.
The opportunity had finallye. On the night she promised him that she coulde to propose tomorrow, Wang Nian was overjoyed and let down his guard against her.
He actually let her take control.
At his most forgetful moment, she plunged the razor-sharp scissors into his chest.
She deliberately did not stab him in the heart. She wanted to keep him alive to torture him.
Before he could scream, Chen Lin¡¯er stuffed a rag into his mouth.
She tied his hands and feet, then, with a sad smile, began to torture him, cutting him again and again.
At first, his expression was ferocious, butter, his eyes revealed a pleading expression, as if he was saying, ¡°Give me a quick death!¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er took out a pen and paper, saying, ¡°Write down everything you did honestly. Confess, and I won¡¯t torture you anymore.¡±
¡°Don¡¯t think I don¡¯t know that my inws were killed by your wife¡¯s brothers.
My husband was also killed by you.¡±
¡°And my child was also killed by you and the Zhang brothers. You don¡¯t want me to sell the shop because you took a fancy to it, so you attacked my family!¡±
There was hope in Wang Nian¡¯s eyes. He thought that Chen Lin¡¯er wanted to report his confession to the officials and sue him and his wife. If Chen Lin¡¯er reported it to the officials, he would have a way out.
Wang Nian nodded in agreement.
Chen Lin¡¯er bandaged his wounds and untied one of his hands.
Wang Nian wrote the facts with trembling hands because he had lost too much blood.
He did not dare to deny the truth, as Chen Lin¡¯er was holding a knife and could cut him at any time.
Wang Nian finally wrote down everything he had done and even signed and pressed a fingerprint.
However, what awaited him was not an official investigation but Chen Lin¡¯er torturing him to death.
Chen Lin¡¯er nned to kill Ms. Zhang after killing Wang Nian.
But Ms. Zhang had been practicing martial arts and knew some self-defense techniques, so Chen Lin¡¯er was caught by Ms. Zhang.
Ms. Zhang was very cunning. Instead of killing Chen Lin¡¯er, she sent her to the authorities, iming that Chen Lin¡¯er had topensate her for killing her husband. Her house and shop had to be surrendered to her aspensation.
Chen Lin¡¯er knew that the officials were afraid of the bandits, and the governor was also afraid of Ms. Zhang.
She simply gave up struggling, admitted her crime, and waited for death.
She did not care that Ms. Zhang had taken over her property.
However, she had only eliminated one of her many enemies, and she was still indignant.
She asked Wang Nian to write down the crime because she hoped that one day, she would be able to see all her enemies executed.
She would quietly wait for death in the cell and notmit suicide because she hoped that a miracle would happen before she died..
Chapter 558 - 558: Think About It
Chapter 558 - 558: Think About It
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After learning about Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s ordeal, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s heart swelled withpassion and indignation.
She vowed that the ruthless bandits and their coborators would face divine retribution.
¡°How did you ascertain that those malevolent individuals in the mountains were affiliated with the Public House?¡± Qin Zhenzhen inquired, her concern etched on her face.
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s eyes welled up with tears and resentment. ¡°Wang Nian¡¯s indictment detailed the involvement of his wife and brothers in the assault on my entire family. He explicitly stated that these malevolent figures were nurtured by the Public House.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen pondered the situation, realizing that the mere mention in Wang Nian¡¯s confession did not conclusively establish the bandits¡¯ ties to the Public House.
It urred to her that Wang Nian might have included this detail as a tactic to coerce the governor at the time into sparing him from severe punishment.
Chen Lin¡¯er met Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s gaze. ¡°Mrs. Su, do you doubt my ount, or do you question the veracity of Wang Nian¡¯s admission?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen responded sincerely, ¡°Wang Nian¡¯s confession alone isn¡¯t sufficient evidence to link the malevolent group to the Public House. Concrete proof is essential in matters of such gravity.¡±
Even the members of the Dragon Phoenix Hall were unaware of this revtion, highlighting the need for thorough verification.
Nevertheless, Chen Lin¡¯er asserted with conviction, ¡°I believe it to be true!¡±
She recounted a chilling encounter when she attempted to end Wang Nian¡¯s life. In his desperate plea for mercy, he tried to sway her with promises of wealth.
¡°He begged me not to kill him, insisting that the confession he had written was urate. He stressed that the marauders in the mountains were indeed raised by the Public House.¡±
¡°I am convinced of the truth of his words. This revtion is not a fabrication!¡±
¡°My brother-inw confided in me privately, urging me to join their cause. He believes that in the future, the world will fall under the dominion of the Public
House, and together, we will make significant contributions.¡±
¡°Let me be transparent with you. I¡¯ve already aligned myself with them, aspiring to ascend to a high-ranking official position in the days toe.¡±
¡°To be frank, I am not the one responsible for the harm inflicted upon your entire family. It was my wife who orchestrated those actions through those individuals.¡±
¡°Iprehend why you harbor the desire to end my life. Anyone who witnesses their entire family suffering would harbor such feelings toward their adversary.¡±
¡°But I am not your adversary. It is my wife who bears that title!¡±
¡°If you spare my life, I pledge to treat you well. I swear to avenge you by putting an end to my wife. Once I ascend to high office, you will be the wife of an official, enjoying boundless wealth and luxury¡¡±
Before Wang Nian couldplete his plea, Chen Lin¡¯er abruptly terminated his life.
Chen Lin¡¯er dered, ¡°Mrs. Su, I believe Wang Nian.¡±
¡°On that day, when we ventured into the mountains to retrieve the child, I witnessed it firsthand. Those individuals were undergoing training in the mountain nest, causing the branches of half the mountain slope to tremble.¡± Qin Zhenzhen remained silent.
Chen Lin¡¯er pressed on, ¡°Mrs. Su, I am sharing these details with you because of your expertise as a divine doctor and your mastery of magical seasonings. I want you to understand why I am hesitant to overturn the case.¡±
¡°Reversing the verdict would only bring harm to Governor Su and jeopardize your life. I don¡¯t want you to face such consequences.¡±
¡°Even if you manage to ovee those malevolent individuals, confronting the Public House is an entirely different challenge.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve heard that Governor Su was demoted to Shanglin for crossing paths with the Public House. The extent of the Public House¡¯s influence is undeniable. Their power can cast a shadow over vast territories.¡±
¡°Consider your actions carefully. My demise is not a cause for sympathy. Once my family is gone, my existence bes meaningless in this world. However, you are different. Youth and capability still define you.¡±
¡°Perhaps it¡¯s wiser to steer clear for now. Where there is life, there is hope. As circumstances permit, we can gradually confront them when the timing is more favorable..
Chapter 559 - 559: Originally a Young Miss
Chapter 559 - 559: Originally a Young Miss
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Upon hearing Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s articte words, Qin Zhenzhen regarded her with curiosity. The eloquence seemed incongruent with the image of an illiterate woman. Furthermore, Chen Lin¡¯er had just imed to understand Wang Nian¡¯s confession.
¡°You received an education?¡± Qin Zhenzhen asked, her expression revealing a hint of surprise.
Chen Lin¡¯er responded with a bitter smile. ¡°If I were to tell you that I was once a wealthy youngdy, would you believe me?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen wasn¡¯t particrly astonished. ¡°I had already suspected something. ¡±
¡°Can you share your story? How did you end up in this situation?¡± Qin Zhenzhen inquired.
Chen Lin¡¯er fell into a momentary silence, as if grappling with something difficult to express.
¡°If you¡¯d rather not tell me, that¡¯s fine. Consider my question withdrawn,¡± Qin Zhenzhen added.
¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯m on the brink of death anyway. There¡¯s no need to conceal it any longer,¡± Chen Lin¡¯er began, opening up about her childhood.
¡°Are you aware that over a decade ago, officials from the Court of Judicial
Review were exposed for colluding with the enemy and betraying the country? The evidence was irrefutable. By imperial decree, more than 50 individuals from the Chen family were thrown into prison!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen asked in astonishment, ¡°Are you a descendant of Governor Chen?¡±
Over a decade ago, Governor Chen of the Court of Judicial Review had offended the Public House and was unjustly exterminated by them. This information wasn¡¯t part of the original book, but Qin Zhenzhen hade across it in the data Su Bin had gathered.
During that time, Governor Chen faced conviction by the emperor. The men were executed, and the women were registered as ves, sent to military camps as military prostitutes. Younger girls were taken by brokers, some were sold as maids, and those deemed beautiful were fetched at a high price by Yihong Courtyard.
At that time, Chen Lin¡¯er was about eight years old. Logically speaking, she should have been sent to the military camp to be a military prostitute. He did not know how she came here.
Chen Lin¡¯er nodded. ¡°The governor was my grandfather¡¡±
¡°I was eight and a half years old at that time. I was escorted to the military camp by my mother and a group of women in the residence.¡±
¡°On the way, my mother said to me: You must think of a way to escape! Once you reach the military camp, your life will be over!¡±
¡°After that, Mother used the only golden hairpin she had and her innocence to bribe an official who was escorting us. That official wrapped me in tattered clothes and threw me into the forest by the roadside.¡±
¡°I listened to my mother and ran in the opposite direction. I didn¡¯t dare to stop and rest until I couldn¡¯t see the escort team.¡±
¡°I stole the boy¡¯s clothes from the farmer¡¯s house and disguised myself as a dirty little boy. I ran all the way and begged for food. When I couldn¡¯t get food, I ate wild vegetables and tree bark.¡±
¡°Later on, we arrived at Shanglin Prefecture.¡±
¡°Chen Lin¡¯er isn¡¯t my original name. I just didn¡¯t lose my surname.¡±
¡°After I was picked up by my husband¡¯s family, I was afraid of exposing my identity. I¡¯ve been pretending to be an illiterate country girl and living carefully.¡±
¡°I never went to my mother. I knew she must be dead. How could a proud woman like her be a military prostitute?¡±
¡°She told me that after I escaped, she would end her life. She also told me that if I was unlucky enough to be captured by those people, I would choose to die. I would rather die than be sent to the military camp to suffer that kind of humiliation.¡±
¡°Mother said that if we can escape, we have to work hard to survive and forget the past. We must not let our descendants avenge the Chen family, because we can¡¯t beat them.¡±
¡°I listened to my mother and tried my best to forget the past. I thought that I had finallye to an end.. I didn¡¯t expect that the heavens still wouldn¡¯t let me off¡
Chapter 560 - 560: Not Satisfied with the Current Situation
Chapter 560 - 560: Not Satisfied with the Current Situation
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
At that moment, Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s cheeks were already streaked with tears.
Qin Zhenzhen retrieved a handkerchief and delicately wiped away her tears. ¡°We¡¯ve decided to overturn your case and release you without any charges. You won¡¯t be sent to the military camp.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s intense reaction to the mention of being a military prostitute suddenly made sense. It appeared she had a haunting experience with it.
She had endured the most agonizing parting in the world, and it happened not once, but twice¡
The pain was overwhelming.
No wonder she had contemted ending her life.
Yet, she clearly departed with unresolved grievances.
¡°Thank you, Mrs. Sul¡± Chen Lin¡¯er epted Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s handkerchief, feeling the warmth it held. She shook her head, saying, ¡°You can¡¯t confront them!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen wiped her own tears. ¡°I¡¯ve never attempted it before. How can I be certain it won¡¯t work?¡±
Despite Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s insistence, Chen Lin¡¯er held fast to her perspective.
¡°It¡¯s not worth sacrificing lives for.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen imparted, ¡°We¡¯re not alone. There are others. Unity is strength. No matter how towering a tree is, it will eventually fall.¡±
A spark of hope ignited in Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s eyes. Yes, with Governor Su supported by the General Manor and the Third Prince, overthrowing the Public House wasn¡¯t an impossible feat.
Curious, Qin Zhenzhen inquired, ¡°Is Wang Nian¡¯s confession still hidden?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er affirmed, ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve already buried it in the corner behind the house. There¡¯s a loose stone there with a small hole inside. You can send someone to retrieve it.¡±
¡°Then, did you approach my husband¡¯s cousin, Wang San? He expressed a desire to seek justice for us and even attempted to raise awareness about the injustice, but he was forcibly driven away a few times.¡±
¡°If you seek him out, he¡¯ll surely agree. He¡¯s a pitiable soul, the lone survivor in the family, bravely beating the drum to highlight the injustice¡¡¯
Qin Zhenzhen assured, ¡°Alright, await our good news.¡±
As she was about to depart, Chen Lin¡¯er unexpectedly inquired, ¡°If I make it through, could you teach me how to cook these dishes?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen countered, ¡°You want to learn?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er nodded resolutely. ¡°I do.¡±
¡°If Governor Su sessfully resolves my case, I may escape death, but I understand I can¡¯t avoid consequences. I don¡¯t want to burden you further. I just hope that, after learning to cook, I can assist in the kitchen when sent to the barracks. I don¡¯t want to be a military prostitute.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was touched by herpassion. Despite enduring immense suffering, Chen Linter remained thoughtful of others.
¡°I vow that you¡¯ll never be sent to the military camp. If ites to settling the case, I¡¯ll ensure your discreet release!¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er cried and smiled. ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Su!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen spent almost two hours in the cell.
Su Bin grew anxious.
Why were they conversing for so long?
His concern for his pregnant wife intensified.
Qin Zhenzhen scoffed at his worry. ¡°Why are you so on edge? I¡¯m simply listening to her story. It won¡¯t tire me out.¡±
¡°Her life is truly difficult,¡± Su Bin sighed.
Qin Zhenzhen proceeded to recount everything that had transpired with Chen Lin¡¯er.
When it came to the revtion that the bandits in the mountains were being manipted by the Public House, Su Bin remained unsurprised.
¡°The Dragon Phoenix Hall just received intel confirming that the Public House has extended its influence to the bandits¡¯ hideout.
¡°Their intention is to transform the bandits¡¯ir into a covert training ground.¡±
¡°It appears the Public House is no longer content with the status quo.¡±
¡°They are vying for that position of power.¡±
¡°Something significant might unfold in the capital soon.¡±
¡°Leaving the capital when we did was a prudent decision.¡±
¡°However, the path ahead for the Third Prince is even more challenging..¡±
Chapter 561 - 561: Outstanding Strategy
Chapter 561 - 561: Outstanding Strategy
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen pondered the potential events unfolding in the capital and couldn¡¯t fathom the impending developments.
Unable to contain her curiosity, she questioned Su Bin, ¡°Tell me, what do you think will happen in the capital?¡±
Su Bin wore a cryptic expression. ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, the emperor might meet his end soon.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen was taken aback. ¡°Is the Public House in such a rush?¡±
Could it be that they were aligning with the narrative of the original book?
In the book, it was the Eighth Imperial Uncle who assassinated the Emperor and the Crown Prince. Was it now the Public House orchestrating the demise of the Emperor and the Crown Prince?
Su Bin whispered, ¡°They¡¯re not in a hurry. It¡¯s likely they¡¯ve already taken out the emperor, nning to support the crown prince¡¯s ascension to the throne.
That fool, the crown prince, is far more manageable than the current emperor.¡±
¡°They won¡¯t directly seize the throne. The Empress Dowager stillmands a portion of the military, and many ministers remain loyal to her.¡±
¡°As long as the Empress Dowager and the General Manor unite, the Public House will hesitate.¡±
¡°They will proceed cautiously¡ªfirst, eliminate the emperor, prop up the crown prince, diminish the Empress Dowager¡¯s influence, and suppress the General Manor.¡±
¡°When the opportune moment arrives, they¡¯ll gradually manipte the crown prince. Eventually, the entire nation will fall under their control.¡±
¡°If the Third Prince doesn¡¯t mature swiftly and relies solely on the General
Manor, his path will undoubtedly be fraught with challenges.¡±
¡°Unluckily, he may even be at risk of losing his life.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen remained rtively unfazed.
As the protagonist in the book, the Third Prince was destined for a challenging journey.
Yet, possessing the aura of a male lead, a short and tragic life was out of the question.
¡°He is bound to ascend to the throne; there¡¯s no need for excessive concern on that front,¡± she reassured herself.
What troubled her were the potential repercussions for their own situation.
¡°So, what¡¯s our n?¡± she inquired.
Su Bin responded, ¡°If they indeed eliminate the emperor and elevate the Crown Prince, our situation won¡¯t be significantly impacted.¡±
¡°Firstly, we¡¯ve already departed from Shanglin. The mountains are distant, and reaching us would require considerable effort on the part of the Public House. Sess is not guaranteed.¡±
¡°Secondly, the Public House would likely demote me to Shanglin instead of executing me immediately. They¡¯ll adopt a wait-and-see approach, ready to pull us into their fold at any moment, given our affluent background that promises increasing wealth.¡±
¡°Money is the lifeblood of a nation. Eliminating us would deplete the treasury¡¯s ie, resulting in more drawbacks than benefits.¡±
¡°Thirdly, the Public House may believe that our reluctance to align with them is solely due to the Crown Prince¡¯s aspirations for you. They will perceive it as a matter of personal gain, assuming that as long as they fulfill our desires, we will willingly acknowledge them.¡±
¡°Therefore, don¡¯t worry, my dear. We¡¯re secure for the time being.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen sought further rification, ¡°Should we then proceed with the original n and assist Chen Lin¡¯er in overturning the case?¡±
Su Bin nodded resolutely. ¡°Yes.¡±
¡°We¡¯ll support Chen Lin¡¯er in reversing the case and ensuring justice for Ms. Zhang. We¡¯ll also caution anyone associated with the mountain bandits to mend their ways, lest they share Ms. Zhang¡¯s fate.¡±
¡°Simultaneously, we aim to dismantle the Public House¡¯s training ground and make them endure in silence!¡± Su Bin disclosed his strategy to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Wife, what do you think? Will this n work?¡± he inquired.
Qin Zhenzhen apuded Su Bin with a thumbs up. ¡°Brilliant! Brilliant! As expected of someone destined to be the Primus. Your strategic thinking is exceptional!¡±
Implicitly, Qin Zhenzhen wanted to express that Su Bin was truly embodying the role of the book¡¯s antagonist. His scheming nature was unmistakable..
Chapter 562 - 562: To the Court
Chapter 562 - 562: To the Court
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin dispatched someone to retrieve Wang Nian¡¯s confession and tasked Mr. Chen with locating Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s husband¡¯s cousin, Wang San.
Wang San, brimming with enthusiasm, pledged his full cooperation with Su Bin and the others,mitting to anything required to achieve justice for his cousin¡¯s family.
Su Bin enlisted Mr. Chen¡¯s assistance in drafting aint. Subsequently, he headed to the government office to beat the drum and advocate for Chen Lin¡¯er.
On the day Wang San presented himself at the government office to drum up support for his cause, a crowd gathered to witness the spectacle.
In adherence to tradition, the individual beating the drum and proiming injustice had to endure 30 strokes on the back first.
Su Bin, respecting the established norms, emphasized to Liu Dazhuang and the others that the hits must be administered gently.
Upon thepletion of the 30 strokes, bystanders were left in disbelief.
The new governor seemed genuinelymitted to aiding Chen Lin¡¯er in overturning her case.
Wang San, filled with tion, recognized the governor as a man true to his word, anticipating that the following actions would hinge on the governor¡¯s strategies.
Kneeling down, Wang San delivered the chess piece, eximing, ¡°A wronged case here!¡±
This marked Su Bin¡¯s inaugural case management. He threw the doors of the government office wide open, allowing the spectators to enter and observe closely, as long as they refrained from causing disturbances.
Mr. Chen perused Wang San¡¯s statement on the spot, making it clear to everyone that Wang San intended to sue Ms. Zhang, the wife of Wang Nian.
Ms. Zhang had conspired with Wang Nian and the nefarious figures in the mountains to orchestrate the massacre of his second uncle¡¯s family. Furthermore, she had seized control of his second uncle¡¯s residence and business, a situation Wang San found intolerable. Su Bin inquired, ¡°Besides the evidence, do you have any additional proof?¡± Wang San presented Wang Nian¡¯s confession.
¡°This is a statement penned by Wang Nian before his demise. Governor, please review it.¡±
Mr. Chen handed Su Bin the confession.
A look of rage crossed Su Bin¡¯s face. ¡°How dare she, Ms. Zhang! Go to Wang Nian¡¯s residence and apprehend Ms. Zhang for questioning!¡±
¡°Yes!¡± resonated the robust response from the two lines of yamen officials. Subsequently, Liu Dazhuang led six bailiffs to apprehend the woman.
Whispers rippled among the spectators.
¡°Governor Su doesn¡¯t appear to be acting. He genuinely intends to overturn Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s case.¡±
¡°Governor Su, perhaps you¡¯re unaware that the mountain bandits are not just ruthless but also arrogant.¡±
¡°Indeed, Ms. Zhang¡¯s brothers are the favorites of the bandit leader, and Ms. Zhang and her husband act as theirckeys. Crossing them won¡¯t go unanswered.¡±
¡°I beg to differ. Who is Governor Su? He even dares to offend a high-ranking official in the capital. Why would he fear mountain bandits?¡±
¡°Did you not notice? Since Governor Su assumed office, those mountain bandits have refrained from causing trouble. It indicates that Governor Su wields considerable influence.¡¯
¡°That¡¯s correct. Money indeed holds significant sway. Governor Su¡¯s family is wealthy, and with the willingness to pay, they can enlist numerous individuals for assistance, wielding considerable influence.¡±
¡°I¡¯ve heard that he¡¯s already invited the foremost martial arts leader in the world to Shanglin.¡±
¡°Once the leader issues amand, heroes from all corners will converge on Shanglin!¡±
¡°Do you believe Governor Su would still harbor fear of the mountain bandits?¡± ¡°It seems the reckoning has arrived for those mountain bandits this time!¡±
Upon hearing this news, tion swept through the crowd, prompting queries directed at the individual who shared the information.
¡°Where did you learn this? Is it credible?¡±
¡°Careful with your words; don¡¯t raise our hopes needlessly.¡±
The informant raised their hand and took an oath. ¡°I swear this is not baseless gossip! I heard it directly from Brother Wang and Brother Liu. If you doubt me, you can verify with themter!¡±
The individuals referred to as Brother Wang and Brother Liu were none other than Poxed Face Wang and Liu Dazhuang.
Now, skepticism vanished, and the gathered crowd no longer questioned the veracity of the information..
Chapter 563 - 563: Discussing Countermeasures
Chapter 563 - 563: Discussing Countermeasures
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Unaware that Su Bin intended to overturn Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s case, Ms. Zhang only discovered it when Liu Dazhuang arrived at her residence with the bailiffs.
A crowd gathered to witness the unfolding events, but they kept a safe distance, fearing Ms. Zhang¡¯s potential retaliation.
The mere utterance of a word from Ms. Zhang to her brothers could spell disaster for anyone daring to approach.
Liu Dazhuang, holding the token, dered, ¡°Ms. Zhang, please apany us to the court!¡±
Ms. Zhang scoffed, ¡°I am not at your beck and call!¡±
Liu Dazhuang¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Then, don¡¯t me us for resorting to force!¡±
With arrogance, Ms. Zhang retorted, ¡°Dare youy a finger on me!¡±
Undeterred, Liu Dazhuang discarded restraint andmanded, ¡°Attack!¡±
Six bailiffs advanced, subduing Ms. Zhang. Despite her initial resistance and scratching, her efforts were futile against the collective strength of the six men.
Furious, she shouted and berated, ¡°Release me! Do you want to die?¡±
¡°Fine! You¡¯re not afraid of death, huh? Just wait. I remember all your names. I¡¯ll make you regret this!¡±
However, Liu Dazhuang asserted, ¡°We¡¯re following orders!¡±
Ms. Zhang continued her tirade. ¡°Orders? Do you think I¡¯ll spare you just because you say that? Mark my words, you¡¯ll be the first to suffer!¡± Turning green, Liu Dazhuang silenced Ms. Zhang by stuffing a rag into her mouth.
¡°Take her away!¡±
¡°Yes!¡± they responded, dragging Ms. Zhang to the government office.
Upon learning of Governor Su¡¯s intention to overturn Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s case, Liu Dazhuang and hispanions began to feel a sense of unease.
Reversing Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s case inevitably meant punishing Ms. Zhang.
Punishing Ms. Zhang would undoubtedly incur the wrath of the mountain bandits¡ªa perilous prospect.
The consequences ranged from losing their lives to the potential annihtion of their entire families.
While a month¡¯s sry could sustain their households, safeguarding their families¡¯ lives was of equal importance.
Approaching Su Bin, they offered counsel, ¡°Unveiling Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s case will surely anger the mountain bandits. Governor, please reconsider!¡±
Nevertheless, Su Bin had already resolved to proceed, dismissing their advice.
They recounted to Su Bin the atrocitiesmitted by the mountain bandits and the fear they instilled.
¡°All prior governors dared not provoke them. By avoiding provocation, they ensured their safety. Those who dared to provoke invariably met a fatal end!¡±
The more they spoke, the more incensed Su Bin became. ¡°In that case, we can eradicate the scourge for the people! We can eliminate the threat to the nation!¡±
¡°If you fear personal repercussions, you¡¯re free to resign immediately and return home. Your monthly wages will be calcted based on the days worked!¡±
¡°Henceforth, anyone dissuading me will be considered to have resigned!¡±
No one dared to dissuade Su Bin any further. Exchanging nces, they decided to confer privately and devise a n.
Su Bin addressed them sternly, ¡°If anyone takes leave or arriveste tomorrow, they will be automatically dismissed!¡±
¡°Once judged to have resigned, there¡¯s no possibility of reinstatement. Consider your choices carefully!¡±
¡°As constables, fear of criminal elements is uneptable. Such individuals are unworthy of being constables!¡±
It marked the first time Su Bin had rebuked them so harshly.
Liu Dazhuang and the others convened to strategize.
Some believed that Governor Su was distinct from his predecessors. Perhaps he genuinely possessed the capability to eradicate the mountain bandits, and following him could lead to a promising future.
Others felt powerless to impede his course.
¡°He¡¯s the governor, and his family is wealthy. Who¡¯s to say if he¡¯s already epted bribes? When the timees, he might relocate and leave us to bear the consequences.¡±
¡°I¡¯m not willing to take any risks. I¡¯d rather not remain a constable..¡±
Chapter 564 - 564: Counting the Handwriting
Chapter 564 - 564: Counting the Handwriting
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Following the discussion, most chose to remain, while some opted out of their constable roles due to the fear of offending Ms. Zhang.
The prevailing sentiment, however, emphasized the importance of having a backbone as men. If Governor Su wasn¡¯t afraid of potential consequences, why should they be?
A few adopted a wait-and-see approach, while Poxed Face Wang, the other two clerks and stewards, and the constables directly involved in Ms. Zhang¡¯s apprehension chose to stay. They reasoned that even if they had to resign, it was eptable given their active role in Ms. Zhang¡¯s arrest.
Among the twenty-four constables, seven decided to quit, and only one of the new recruits left.
Liu Dazhuang found himself in an awkward position as the head of the bailiffs. Despite being the most capable and charismatic, he was taken aback that half of his chosen team valued their lives over courage.
Contrary to his expectations, the neers, though initially perceived as mere handymen, had sessfully navigated intricate tests devised by Mr. Chen. These evaluations involved deliberately creating trouble or disputes to gauge their problem-solving abilities and character.
The remaining recruits were resilient individuals with unwavering determination.
Liu Dazhuang, wearing a grim expression, cautioned those on the brink of leaving, ¡°You¡¯re free to resign, but if I discover that you¡¯ve leaked information, don¡¯t me me for taking ruthless measures!¡±
He understood that some of these individuals had ties to the bandits, while others sought to appease Ms. Zhang.
Recognizing Liu Dazhuang¡¯s formidable reputation, the departing individuals assured him in unison, ¡°We absolutely won¡¯t leak any information.¡±
Handing over the list of resignations to Su Bin, Liu Dazhuang watched as Su Bin perused the names, a smile forming on his face. ¡°This is excellent. We can promptly weed out the unqualified individuals.¡±
¡°Remember, as constables, act ordingly!¡±
Su Bin then informed Liu Dazhuang and the others, ¡°The world¡¯s foremost martial arts leader, Xiao Hong, will arrive in Shanglin in a few days. Let¡¯s not give the martial arts heroes a reason to mock us.¡±
Liu Dazhuang¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Leader of the martial arts world? Xiao Hong? Coming to Shanglin? Along with other martial arts heroes?¡±
As someone well-versed in martial arts, Liu Dazhuang held a deep admiration for the martial arts heroes, particrly the leader of the martial arts world, Xiao Hong, who served as his idol.
Upon learning of Xiao Hong¡¯s impending visit and the presence of martial arts heroes, Liu Dazhuang swiftly grasped the purpose of their arrival.
¡°They¡¯ve been invited by the governor to deal with the mountain bandits, haven¡¯t they?¡±
Su Bin¡¯s smile confirmed Liu Dazhuang¡¯s correct deduction.
With these formidable individuals in action, there was no longer any concern about eliminating the mountain bandits.
Governor Su had indeed orchestrated an impressive n!
Liu Dazhuang¡¯s resolve to stay became even more steadfast. Unfazed by Ms. Zhang, they obediently followed Su Bin¡¯s instructions.
As Ms. Zhang approached the government office, she entered with an air of arrogance.
¡°Kneel!¡±
The constables on both sides shouted in unison.
Resistant to kneeling, Ms. Zhang received a forceful kick from Liu Dazhuang,pelling her to kneel. The pain in her knees intensified, fueling her seething hatred toward Liu Dazhuang¡ªwishing she could y him alive. Simr sentiments extended to Su Bin.
Su Bin initiated the trial, during which Ms. Zhang adamantly refused to confess and persisted in asserting that Wang Nian¡¯s confession was fabricated.
At that moment, the constable who had retrieved Wang Nian¡¯s handwriting returned.
Uponparison, the handwriting on the two pieces of paper proved to be identical..
Chapter 565 - 565: Wise Governor
Chapter 565 - 565: Wise Governor
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
At that moment, Chen Lin¡¯er emerged from the shadows.
Su Bin inquired, ¡°How did Wang Nian end up confessing?
Chen Lin¡¯er revised the details and disclosed them.
¡°I knew that to gather evidence of his crimes, I had to first disorient Wang Nian. ¡±
¡°So, I pretended to be in a rtionship with him and caught him off guard with a non-fatal stab.
¡°My intention was to gain control and force him to document his actions.¡±
¡°Once he had written it all down, I nned to expose his crimes to the authorities, but he unexpectedly broke free and tried to strangle me. I had no option but to defend myself with a knife.¡±
¡°During the struggle, he ended up being fatally stabbed.¡±
¡°I took his life to preserve my own. If I hadn¡¯t, I would have been the one to perish. ¡±
¡°Governor, it was purely an act of self-defense. I never intended to purposefully take a life!¡±
¡°Before, I confessed. I felt defenseless, and my spirit was like ashes.¡±
¡°But reflecting on how Ms. Zhang and Wang Nian share the same guilt, yet she escaped consequences and continues to harm others, I cannot ept it. That¡¯s why I had to revise my statement!¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s words were carefully crafted by Qin Zhenzhen, rehearsed meticulously In reverse.
The spectators remained eerily silent.
Considering the ordeal Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s family had endured, sympathy for her and disdain for Ms. Zhang deepened.
Ms. Zhang, for the sake of her shop, had inflicted harm upon Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s family. If she were allowed to live, she would likely victimize others in the future. The crowd realized they might be the next targets if justice wasn¡¯t served.
A voice rang out, breaking the silence. ¡°Release Chen Lin¡¯er and bring justice to Ms. Zhang! Eradicate the evil for the people!¡±
Soon, the collective cry echoed: ¡°Release Chen Lin¡¯er, punish Ms. Zhang, eradicate the evil for the people!¡±
In response, two lines of constables bellowed in unison, ¡°Silence!¡±
As the mor subsided, Su Bin emphatically struck the wooden stick. ¡°Ms. Zhang, do you confess to your crimes?¡±
Ms. Zhang, defiantly, retorted, ¡°What crimes have Imitted?¡±
Without hesitation, Su Bin signaled the Grand Punishment Attendant.
Constables took turns applying various instruments of torture to Ms. Zhang.
Her arrogance crumbled under the weight of the punishment.
Initially, she warned Su Bin loudly, iming that harming her would be akin to provoking the mountain bandits. She even threatened his entire family with dire consequences if he did not release her promptly.
Unfazed, Su Bin ordered the clerk to meticulously record her statements.
Ms. Zhang¡¯s bravado faltered. Su Bin¡¯s willingness to publicly subject her to torture indicated his fearlessness. She reluctantly conceded, realizing that she would have to acknowledge her collusion with the mountain bandits.
Did this not hand Su Bin a solid case?
Ms. Zhang, unable to endure, confessed, ¡°Please, no more torture. I admit my
guilt¡ ¡±
Reluctantly, she signed the confession, revealing her crimes.
Her strategy was clear: confess first to secure her survival and await her brother¡¯s intervention.
No need to alert anyone; her brother would soon be informed.
When the time came, she vowed to personally exact revenge on the constables who had tormented her!
And as for Governor Su, she harbored a fierce determination to make him pay dearly!
Ignoring Ms. Zhang¡¯s venomous re, Su Bin proceeded to deliver the verdict.
¡°Wang Nian and his wife, driven by selfish motives, conspired to murder Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s inws, husband, and two children. The evidence is indisputable. Both have confessed and are sentenced to death!¡±
¡°In three days, Ms. Zhang will face execution!¡±
¡°In her pursuit of justice, Chen Lin¡¯er bravely faced danger. She acted in self-defense, resulting in the demise of Wang Nian. Chen Lin¡¯er is acquitted, and all properties seized by the Wang family have been returned!¡±
Spontaneous cheers erupted from the crowd.
¡°The governor is wise!¡±
Chapter 566 - 566: Hitting Someone
Chapter 566 - 566: Hitting Someone
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Two constables forcefully ushered Ms. Zhang into the dismal confines of the death cell.
Despite her weariness, Ms. Zhang clung to the belief that her hard-earned store would remain secure. Her faith intensified as her brother, apanied by a band of rescuers, appeared on the scene.
Chen Lin¡¯er, having been acquitted, gazed through tear-filled eyes, finding sce within her heart. A newfound chapter awaited her.
Recollections of advice from Qin Zhenzhen echoed in her mind.
¡°Don¡¯t belittle yourself for past mistakes. Your worth is not defined by your history with Wang Nian. Embrace self-respect, and others will follow suit.¡± ¡°Only by holding yourself in high regard can you expect others to do the same.¡±
¡°Leave the misfortunes behind, embark on a fresh journey. Youth is on your side, and a promising future awaits.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er, San, and theirpanions returned to her dwelling.
Since Ms. Zhang¡¯s incarceration, Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s house had be a refuge. It surpassed Ms. Zhang¡¯s residence in both space and allure.
Inside, Ms. Zhang¡¯s children and their grandparents wept.
Ms. Zhang¡¯s eldest son, absent from the house, had likely ventured into the mountains to spread the news.
The youngest son, aged ten, clung fearfully to his grandfather, trembling visibly. Witnessing his mother¡¯s torment and subsequent confession haunted him. He had overheard the grim pronouncement of his mother¡¯s impending decapitation within three days.
Though aware of his elder brother¡¯s journey into the mountains to secure help, the young boy couldn¡¯t shake the fear that, if help did not arrive, they would be left orphaned.
The prospect of a parentless existence was too dire for him to fathom.
Wang Nian¡¯s father shot a hostile re at Chen Lin¡¯er. ¡°What brings you here?
You¡¯ve already taken my son¡¯s life, and now you¡¯re after my daughter-inw? Wang Nian¡¯s mother, even more irrational, grabbed a broom, poised to strike Chen Lin¡¯er.
¡°You wretch! You lured my son and caused his death. Yet, you have the audacity to live in this world¡¡¯
Just as she raised the broom, Liu Dazhuang, who had apanied Chen Lin¡¯er, swiftly snatched it away.
Poxed Face Wang produced a document and recited the crimes of Wang Nian and Madam Zhang.
¡°Wang Nian and Ms. Zhang stand used of grave offenses, with Ms. Zhang facing a death sentence. Since Wang Nian is already deceased and buried, there won¡¯t be a public decapitation for her. Ms. Zhang is scheduled for execution in the market at noon in three days!¡±
¡°The residence and shop upied by Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s family will be returned immediately.¡±
¡°Please take stock of your belongings and vacate Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s house with the children. ¡±
Wang Nian¡¯s son and daughter erupted in louder sobs.
Wang Nian¡¯s parents, in a state of grief, adamantly refused to leave, their cries mixing with bitter usations.
¡°Everyone, bear witness! The former governor passed a clear judgment, and Chen Lin¡¯er has confessed. Now she¡¯s pointing fingers at my son and daughter-inw!¡±
¡°It¡¯s evident that this wretch, Chen Linter, must have seduced the new governor to manipte the case¡¡±
Overwhelmed by frustration, Chen Lin¡¯er seized the broom from Liu Dazhuang¡¯s grasp and swung it forcefully at Wang Nian¡¯s parents.
¡°It¡¯s the father¡¯s negligence that led to this! If you hadn¡¯t supported your son and daughter-inw, my family wouldn¡¯t have fallen victim to their actions.¡±
¡°Despite knowing that your son and daughter-inw engaged in illicit activities with ill-gotten gains, you shamelessly basked in their false disys of filial piety!¡±
¡°With the truthid bare for all to see, you still have the audacity to spew baseless usations against the governor!¡±
¡°I¡¯ll beat the two of you senseless! You¡¯re nothing but disrespectful, old scoundrels!¡±
¡°I¡¯ll beat you to the ground! It¡¯s astonishing that our family ever considered you two as decent people¡¡±
Chapter 567 - 567: Execution
Chapter 567 - 567: Execution
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Chen Lin¡¯ershed out uncontrobly, striking anyone within reach.
Wang Nian¡¯s mother, in a panic, shielded her head and darted around, attempting to evade the frenzied blows. Despite his age, Wang Nian¡¯s father, fueled by anger, sought to wrest the broom from Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s grip, intending to deliver a reprimand.
However, Liu Dazhuang intervened in the nick of time, his expression stern as he rebuked the elderly couple.
¡°Listen carefully, elders! There¡¯s no time to waste. Pack your belongings and vacate this ce immediately!¡±
¡°We¡¯re awaiting further instructions!¡±
¡°If you don¡¯t cooperate, we won¡¯t hesitate to take stern measures!¡±
With that, Liu Dazhuang personally ushered the two children out of the door.
It dawned on Wang Nian¡¯s parents that resisting further was futile. The constable¡¯s staff in Liu Dazhuang¡¯s hands could easily break bones.
Their aged bodies couldn¡¯t endure a beating, so, reluctantly, they began moving their belongings.
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s house was fully furnished; they only brought their clothes.
They dared not prolong the process. Quickly, they gathered their possessions.
Once Wang Nian¡¯s family departed, Liu Dazhuang and the others returned to file their report.
Witnessing Ms. Zhang being escorted away, Chen Lin¡¯er copsed, crying and fainting on the ground.
¡°Father¡ Mother¡ Husband¡ Son¡¡±
Fortunately, Wang San and the others were vignt, preventing her from striking her head against the wooden pir in her distressed state.
On the third day, Ms. Zhang found herself confined within a wagon, paraded through the bustling streets.
Yearning to catch a glimpse of her surroundings, she strained to look left and right, desperate to spot any sign of her brother and potential rescuers. However, the weight of a crime rack, along with chained hands and head, hindered her movements, allowing only a limited view.
As they neared the market, anxiety gripped Ms. Zhang, prompting her to shout, ¡°Brothers, are you here to save your sister?¡±
Onlookers observed from a distance, their expressions serious. No one dared to mock the situation, as the uncertainty loomed over whether Ms. Zhang¡¯s brothers might arrive with bandits to stage a rescue. Laughter could potentially provoke fatal consequences.
The bystanders hesitated, torn between the fear of potential harm from the bandits and the desire to witness a significant event. Braving the risk, some dared to inch forward.
Ms. Zhang continued her desperate pleas, but silence met her cries, intensifying her worry.
Upon reaching the market, she was forcefully ushered out of the carriage and pressed onto the ground.
Beside her, a bearded executioner gripped arge, gleaming knife in his hand.
Legend had it that executioners deliberately maintained beards, shrouding their faces in hair to enhance an aura of menace, making it challenging for others to discern their true visage. In his non-executioner hours, he preferred not to terrify the children in his vicinity or force hasty detours.
Ms. Zhang, gripped by fear, felt a near loss of control.
The courage to shout eluded her, and despair settled in; it seemed rescue was a distant hope.
At noon, the bailiffs¡¯ synchronized shout rang out, ¡°Governor Su is here!¡±
Officers approached to release Ms. Zhang, securing her hands behind her back. Scanning the crowd, she failed to spot her brother but found sce in the presence of her son and daughter who had brought her a final meal of meat
and wine.
¡°Mother, have some meat and wine!¡±
¡°Grandma said if you eat meat and drink wine, you won¡¯t be harassed by little ghosts on the Netherworld Road¡¡±
Ms. Zhang vehemently shook her head. ¡°I won¡¯t eat it! Take it away! I won¡¯t die!
Your uncle wille to save me!¡±
Her eldest son sobbed as he disclosed, ¡°I went into the mountains but didn¡¯t see
Uncle. I don¡¯t know if he purposely avoided me or happened to be elsewhere.¡±
¡°I pleaded with them to save you.. They let the wolfdogs chase me out of the mountain¡¡±
Chapter 568 - 568: Selling a Shop
Chapter 568 - 568: Selling a Shop
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The more Ms. Zhang heard, the colder she became.
Before Su Bin issued the execution order, Ms. Zhang had already begun pleading for mercy.
¡°Please spare me, Governor!¡±
¡°I have elders and children. Without me, they might all go and beg¡¡±
¡°Governor, show mercy, and spare my life¡¡±
¡°I don¡¯t deserve to die¡¡±
Attempting to climb up to Su Bin, Ms. Zhang was halted by guards who urged her son to act swiftly.
¡°Hurry and give her something to eat before it¡¯s toote.¡±
With a mouthful of meat, Ms. Zhang suddenly burst into tears. ¡°Son, daughter, you must be good people from now on. Don¡¯t follow in your father and mother¡¯s footsteps, causing harm to others and yourselves¡¡±
The four of them embraced each other, shedding tears.
At a quarter to one, constables took away Ms. Zhang¡¯s child, shielding them from witnessing the impending execution.
The executioner¡¯s swift motion took mere seconds from the order to the shing of the de. It was a smooth, efficient process.
Contrary to theatrical portrayals, there were no heroic interventions. No one descended from the sky to save the condemned.
Ms. Zhang¡¯s long-awaited brother failed to appear for her rescue, leaving her unable to find peace in death.
The onlookers sighed in relief; at least, nothing went awry.
It appeared that the bandits in the mountains preyed on the vulnerable and shrank from confronting the formidable.
Upon learning that Governor Su had summoned the leader of the martial arts world and other renowned heroes, they quickly retreated, concealing themselves and avoiding any confrontation.
The concern lingered that once these heroes departed Shanglin, the bandits might emerge from the mountains to inflict further harm on the locals.
Observing Ms. Zhang¡¯s public decapitation, Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s eyes welled with tears as she softly addressed the direction where her familyy buried. ¡°Ms. Zhang and Wang Nian are gone, but the evil in the mountains persists!¡±
She and Wang San made their way to the cemetery to honor their rtives, informing them of the new governor¡¯s actions against Ms. Zhang. Mrs. Su assured them that Governor Su intended to address the menace posed by the malevolent figures in the mountains.
While uncertain of the specific method Governor Su would employ, Chen Linter believed in hismitment to eradicating evil for the well-being of the people. This prospect held the promise of genuine revenge.
In recent days, Chen Lin¡¯er hade to understand that she didn¡¯t need to embrace death to attain freedom. Mrs. Su¡¯s wisdom resonated¡ªshe needed to live well.
Living well meantmemorating her family annually, burning offerings for their clothing and daily needs, ensuring their graves remained free of overgrowth.
With this realization, Chen Lin¡¯er felt a sense of relief. After paying her respects to her family, she entrusted the shop¡¯s title deed to Wang San. ¡°Third Brother, the shop is yours from now on.¡±
Wang San, taken aback, responded, ¡°Even if you want me to manage it, you don¡¯t have to give me the title deed!¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er spoke earnestly, ¡°Your efforts yed a crucial role in securing my acquittal. These two shops are not merely for you to manage; I genuinely intend to gift them to you.¡±
Wang San hastily shook his head. ¡°How could I ept that? I only did what I could. I can¡¯t possibly take over your shop.¡±
¡°You¡¯re on your own. How will you make a living if you don¡¯t run the shop?¡± Chen Lin¡¯er replied.
¡°I¡¯m sincerely offering these two shops to you. Since the unfortunate events with Uncle, Aunt, and Cousin-inw, you¡¯ve been disheartened and haven¡¯t found the spirit to rebuild the family.¡±
¡°It¡¯s not because of your poverty. Youcknd and strength to leverage.¡±
¡°I want you to sell these two shops, venture to the countryside, acquirend, start a family, and lead a regr life. This way, the Wang family won¡¯t be without descendants..¡±
Chapter 569 - 569: Hero Invitation
Chapter 569 - 569: Hero Invitation
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about me. I have capable hands, and I won¡¯t starve,¡± reassured Wang San.
Chen Lin¡¯er had already made up her mind to learn culinary skills from Qin
Zhenzhen. If possible, she also wanted to acquire massage techniques from Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s health center. If Mrs. Su decided to open a health center in Shanglin, Chen Lin¡¯er was willing to lend her support.
Regardless, Wang San adamantly refused to ept Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s shop.
¡°If you decide to return to the countryside, I¡¯ll assist you in selling the shop and acquiring the fields. I¡¯ll even help you with the nting, though I¡¯d prefer to rent thend from you.¡±
¡°You can consider marrying someone else. When the timees, any child will carry my name, and the fields will still be yours.¡±
¡°As for me, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve thought it through. The deceased are gone, and the living must go on. I¡¯ll actively face the future.¡±
¡°I¡¯ll work hard to earn a living, get married, and have children. I won¡¯t allow the Wang family¡¯s lineage to end.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er was deeply moved. In ancient times, having no immediate rtives was amon predicament. For someone like her, without a child or husband, her family line would cease to exist, and her assets would be divided among her husband¡¯s cousins and nsmen. She might even be forced back to her mother¡¯s house.
By voluntarily handing over her assets to Wang San, she expected him to ept, but he genuinely didn¡¯t want them.
¡°You understand. Even if I don¡¯t give it to you, I won¡¯t be able to protect it.¡± ¡°I might as well give it to you now. Sell the shop before those people find out.¡± Only then did Wang San grasp Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s underlying concern.
Indignantly, he eximed, ¡°What right does a n member have to divide your assets?¡±
¡°When you were condemned to death, I pleaded with the n leader to intervene, urging him to file a joint petition to overturn the case for you.
However, they were all so paralyzed by fear that they didn¡¯t even dare to show their faces, afraid that Ms. Zhang¡¯s brothers would seek revenge.¡±
¡°They argued that they needed to safeguard their families and couldn¡¯t risk antagonizing the mountain bandits. I understood their position, and I didn¡¯t press them further.¡±
¡°Now that you¡¯ve been acquitted and have reimed your assets, how can they shamelesslye forward to im everything from you?¡±
Just as Wang San concluded, a dissenting voice interjected, ¡°Wang San, what are you saying!¡±
¡°The n has always had a rule! Every member of the Wang family must adhere to it!¡±
¡°How can we allow outsiders to seize the assets our kinsfolk worked hard to earn?¡±
¡°Are you out of your mind? You stand to gain the most from this extinction. ording to our n¡¯s rules, the one closer to extinction receives a greater share of the assets!¡±
The speaker was Wang Yi, the n leader of the Wang family. Behind him stood four middle-aged men and two elderly members.
Wang Yi, aged about 60, had held the position of patriarch for two decades, seeding his father, andmanded great respect within the n.
The journey from the small mountain vige to Shanglin Prefecture took them a day and a half. Aware of Su Bin¡¯s intent to overturn Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s case, they had sent someone to observe the proceedings. However, they remained concealed in the crowd, hesitant to reveal themselves, fearing retaliation from the bandits.
After Ms. Zhang¡¯s execution, Chen Lin¡¯er reimed the house and the shop, but the matter of food extinction remained unspoken, as they dreaded offending the bandits.
Later, they received reliable information that Governor Su had issued a call to heroes worldwide, urging them to assist in eliminating the bandits and posted an announcement exining the situation.
Shanglin was gued by banditry, causing immense hardship for the people. Due to the national army¡¯smitment to border defense, troops couldn¡¯t be spared to address the mountain bandits, allowing their audacity to grow unchecked.
The governor¡¯s call sought to rally heroes from across the world in Shanglin, presenting a united force to eradicate the bandit menace..
Chapter 570 - 570: Extinction (1)
Chapter 570 - 570: Extinction (1)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Governor Su issued a stirring call to heroes.
Upon receiving the hero invitation, a surge of determination filled the hearts of the heroes, prompting them to converge on Shanglin one after another. They expressed their readiness to join forces and eliminate the bandits, driven by a sharedmitment to rid thend of evil and champion justice.
Reports circted that, under the leadership of the martial arts world¡¯s leader, the heroes had ventured into the mountains to root out the bandits. Many were either in or had fled, while the majority of the remaining captives faced interrogation. The heroes, undeterred, persisted in scouring the mountains for any overlooked bandits.
During interrogations, they extracted information regarding the location of other bandits and their external connections. The heroes sternly warned of impending eradication.
Upon learning this news, the Wang family members felt that the current circumstances were likely less perilous for them.
After deliberation, they implored the elderly n leader to lead a group to reim the assets.
Wang San argued, ¡°n Leader, I haven¡¯t said anything false. It¡¯s the truth.¡±
¡°The family rule is indeed to enjoy until death, and I dare not defy it. But it was clearly all of you who relinquished my cousin¡¯s assets!¡±
¡°When Wang Nian sought to forcibly marry my cousin¡¯s wife and im the shop as her dowry, where were you? Why didn¡¯t you assert your desire to enjoy until your family¡¯s end?¡±
¡°All of you feared death, dreading the repercussions for your families. I believed that you had already abandoned my cousin¡¯s family¡¯s assets.¡±
¡°Because my nsmen had forsaken my cousin¡¯s family. After their demise, no one advocated for justice on their behalf!¡±
¡°Based on this, you cannot now seize my cousin¡¯s family¡¯s assets again!¡±
A Wang nsman sneered, ¡°You¡¯re openly defending her, but secretly aiming to monopolize these assets? Don¡¯t even think about it!¡±
Wang San pointed at the sky and swore, ¡°If I keep my cousin¡¯s assets for myself, may I be struck by lightning and die a horrible death!¡±
Another impatient nsman interrupted, ¡°Wang San, shut up! This method has been a rule for thousands of years. It¡¯s not something that can be changed with a few words from you!¡±
Wang San pleaded, ¡°Everyone knows that my cousin¡¯s wife no longer has a family. How can she survive without these assets? Have you thought about it?¡±
¡°Are you really going to force her, who has just returned from the brink of death, into a corner?¡±
The n leader, Wang Yi, retorted coldly, ¡°So what if we force her into a corner?¡±
¡°A woman who has lost her chastity should die in front of her own cemetery!¡±
Wang San grabbed a wooden stick, shielding Chen Lin¡¯er, and said angrily,
¡°Let¡¯s see who dares to force her to die!¡±
¡°If you want her dead, step over my corpse first!¡±
A middle-aged manpromised, ¡°It¡¯s eptable if she doesn¡¯t want to die as an apology. After losing her assets, she can marry someone else, but she can¡¯t take away a single cent of the Wang family¡¯s wealth.¡±
The n leader, Wang Yi, uttered grimly, ¡°Wang San, there are some things you are yet to learn, aren¡¯t there?¡±
He fixed a gloomy gaze on Chen Lin¡¯er.
¡°Chen Lin¡¯er! How did you end up in Shanglin? Why don¡¯t you have a family? Don¡¯t assume others are oblivious, and don¡¯t presume you¡¯ve deceived everyone!¡±
¡°If you want us to keep your identity a secret, you had better willingly surrender the deed to the house and shop!¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er was taken aback.
She had only shared her true identity with herte husband.
How did the n leadere to know?
Wang Yi discerned the issue from Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s reaction and grasped the truth.
His suspicion had proven correct. There was indeed an undisclosed aspect to Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s identity!
As he observed her shocked countenance, she seemed to be someone who hadmitted a crime and fled..
Chapter 571 - 571: Extinction (2)
Chapter 571 - 571: Extinction (2)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
However, at that time, Chen Lin¡¯er was merely eight years old. The true perpetrator of the crime shouldn¡¯t be her, but a member of her family.
In this society, a single family member¡¯s misdeed cast a shadow on the entire n, akin to the officials whose properties had been seized.
Wang Yi, contemting this, couldn¡¯t help but notice that Chen Lin¡¯er didn¡¯t fit the profile of a girl raised in rural surroundings.
With this realization, Wang Yi smirked, as if conveying to Chen Lin¡¯er that she could escape unscathed if she yed her cards right and kept her identity under wraps.
However, a subtle warning apanied that smile, suggesting that if she proved uncooperative and refused to relinquish her assets, he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to act ruthlessly.
Even Wang San, witnessing Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s expression, couldn¡¯t escape the fear that gripped him. Nheless, he remained steadfast in defending her. ¡°n Leader, spare me your ominous words!¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er, snapping back to reality, regretted her earlier outburst. It was imusible that her husband had divulged her background, and even her inws were unaware. Why would she confide in the n Leader?
Yet, the n Leader¡¯s cunning nature had deceived her too easily. In this moment, she harbored an unwillingness to surrender her assets.
Why should their hard-earned family shop be dissected by these n members? While she might be powerless against them, having Mrs. Su by her side gave her a semnce of strength.
Chen Lin¡¯er sneered at the n Leader. ¡°If you¡¯re aware of my identity, promptly report it to the authorities! Regardless, I won¡¯t yield my assets today!¡±
¡°Let me make it clear¡ªI¡¯ve faced death itself without flinching. So, why would I cower before the likes of you? You think you can use n rules to stifle me?¡±
¡°When my family suffered harm, and I faced the gallows without a murmur, we ceased to be a part of your n!¡±
¡°We¡¯ve long severed ties with your Wang family!¡±
¡°Hence, you¡¯ve no right to swoop in and im our belongings!¡±
¡°Don¡¯t assume I¡¯m powerless. Mrs. Su assured me that if I encounter any troubles, I can seek her assistance!¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s words held weight, prompting the n Leader to remain silent, albeit temporarily.
However, one man, fueled by indignation, shouted, ¡°n Leader, don¡¯t be swayed by her nonsense! Who is she? Who is Mrs. Su? Mrs. Su enjoys a prestigious status. How can she make such promises?¡±
This topic had been privately debated among them. They believed Governor Su¡¯s willingness to overturn Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s case wasn¡¯t solely for her but rather tied to Governor Su¡¯s recent appointment.
¡°The wooden box she holds contains the deeds to the house and shop. We outnumber them two to seven. Why should we fear losing to them?¡±
These words rekindled their determination, and four middle-aged men advanced toward Chen Lin¡¯er and Wang Sanwei.
Wang San tightened his grip on the stick. ¡°Don¡¯t assume I won¡¯t strike you just because of your seniority. Take another step, and don¡¯t me me for disregarding the rules!¡±
As tensions escted, and a confrontation seemed imminent, a voice from outside the door halted the impending sh.
¡°Mrs. Su has arrived!¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er felt a surge of joy.
Mrs. Su had upheld her promise.
She had mentioned visiting when she found the time, and true to her word, she appeared today, right on time.
Wang Yi and the others were well aware of Mrs. Su¡¯s status.
In the presence of a government official¡¯s wife, they wouldn¡¯t dare to seize Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s belongings.
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s recent promation held weight, and Mrs. Su¡¯s support seemed evident.
It appeared that they wouldn¡¯t seed in iming her possessions.
Qin Zhenzhen apanied only by an elderly woman arrived.
Before the carriage entered the alley, she instructed the coachman to halt.
Observing the gathering crowd outside Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s house, she confirmed that the information Su Bin provided was urate.
Indeed, the members of Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s husband¡¯s family hade to take control of the assets.
In the past, she had only heard rumors of their oppressive behavior, but now, she could witness it firsthand.
Curious to see the expressions on their faces, she eagerly anticipated the unfolding events..
Chapter 572 - 572: Expedient Plan
Chapter 572 - 572: Expedient n
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The onlookers instinctively cleared a path for Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Sister Chen, why is there such amotion at your house?¡±
Upon hearing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s voice, tears welled up in Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s eyes.
Mrs. Su had addressed her as ¡°Sister Chen¡±!
¡°Sister Chen, what¡¯s the matter? Has someone mistreated you?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen reached for a handkerchief, intending to wipe away Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s tears.
Embarrassed, Chen Lin¡¯er took the handkerchief and said, ¡°Mrs. Su, I can manage it myself.¡±
Wang San hurriedly briefed Qin Zhenzhen on the situation.
Looking at Wang Yi, Qin Zhenzhen questioned, ¡°Are you the n Leader of the
Wang Family? Are you leading your n to im Sister Chen¡¯s assets?¡±
Wang Yi, feeling awkward, exined, ¡°Mrs. Su, it¡¯s not a robbery. It¡¯s our family tradition. The rules are in ce to safeguard the family¡¯s wealth.¡± ¡°These rules were revised with the consensus of the entire n.¡¯
¡°We came here to discuss with Ms. Chen. If she decides to remain within the n, we won¡¯t take her assets. However, if she chooses to marry outside, we must reim these possessions.¡±
Seeing Qin Zhenzhen address Chen Lin¡¯er so warmly, Wang Yi tactfully stepped back.
He didn¡¯t want to provoke bandits, and tangling with an official¡¯s wife was equally unwise.
Retreating might grant him a broader perspective on the situation.
If Chen Lin¡¯er dered her intention to stay within the n, he could temporarily retain her assets. Later, he might select a boy from his descendants, having Chen Lin¡¯er adopt him under her name.
Chen Lin¡¯er, being still young, wouldn¡¯t likely endure until marriage. Once she married, her family¡¯s assets would automatically transfer to her husband.
If Chen Lin¡¯er resisted marriage, they had a means topel her.
In that scenario, they might even secure a dowry.
Wang Yi had a well-devised n. Presently, he appeared quite reasonable, leaving Mrs. Su with no grounds forint and earning gratitude from Chen Lin¡¯er.
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s expression indeed reflected happiness.
She was on the verge of pledging never to marry again when Qin Zhenzhen halted her with a nce. ¡°You don¡¯t need to say anything now. Let me handle this matter.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er nodded. ¡°Alright.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen turned her attention to Wang Yi with a smile. ¡°n Leader Wang, I can discern your intentions.¡±
¡°If Sister Chen agrees not to remarry, you aim to choose a boy from your lineage and have her adopt him, correct?¡±
Wang Yi¡¯s demeanor shifted. ¡°I¡¡±
¡°By doing so, you¡¯d effectively coerce her into marriage, consolidating all of Sister Chen¡¯s family assets within your own. Other n members wouldn¡¯t receive any share, am I right?¡±
Wang Yi¡¯s face reddened. ¡°I never thought of it in that way¡¡±
Upon hearing the n Leader¡¯s n, other n members immediately voiced their objections.
¡°n Leader, are you out of your senses? ording to our n rules, when a woman loses her elders and husband and has no son, she is considered extinct!¡±
¡°As an extinct family, she must return all the assets to the n for distribution!¡±
¡°Chen Lin¡¯er is too young to be a widow.¡±
¡°Hence, her assets should be reimed by the n!¡±
Wang Yi continued to signal discreetly to his nsmen, suggesting that this was merely a provisional solution he was considering. His actual intentions would unfold once he deceived Mrs. Su.
Regrettably, his fellow nsmen were already blinded by the allure of potential gains.
¡°n Leader, we must adhere to the n rules!¡±
Wang Yi, wearing a troubled expression, addressed Qin Zhenzhen, ¡°Mrs.. Su, you see, being the n Leader puts me in a challenging position¡
Chapter 573 - 573: Escape
Chapter 573 - 573: Escape
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Qin Zhenzhen was so infuriated that she nearly burst intoughter.
These individuals were tantly here to seize assets, yet they managed to cloak their intentions in a veneer of self-righteousness.
Determined not to engage in further argument with them, Qin Zhenzhen assumed the air of an official¡¯s wife.
¡°I have no interest in your n rules, nor do I wish to learn about them.¡±
¡°I do know, however, that Sister Chen¡¯s house and shop weren¡¯t acquired solely by her parents-inw and husband. She yed a role in obtaining them.¡±
¡°Moreover, when Wang Nian coerced her into marriage with her assets, where were you to intervene and say no?¡±
¡°Your tacit agreement at that time implies that whether Sister Chen marries again or not, these assets rightfully belong to her!¡±
¡°All of you, tell me, is that not correct?¡±
The spectators, mainly urban dwellers with different perspectives from those in the countryside, couldn¡¯t tolerate it any longer and echoed Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sentiments.
¡°Absolutely right! Mrs. Su speaks the truth!¡±
¡°What kind of absurd rule is this?¡±
The Wang n member attempted to argue but found himself drowned out by the collective voices of the onlookers.
¡°Her family has suffered tragedy, and instead of offering support, you exploit her vulnerability and attempt to seize her assets?¡±
¡°This is utterly uneptable!¡±
¡°You¡¯ve tormented a vulnerable woman like this. Her family won¡¯t let you off!¡± ¡°I have to ask, don¡¯t you experience nightmares when you sleep at night?¡±
¡°Aftermitting such deeds, aren¡¯t you afraid of raising a son with no integrity?¡±
¡°If misfortune befalls you, would you tolerate seeing your wife mistreated like this?¡±
¡°What sets you apart from the mountain bandits?¡±
¡°Mrs. Su, people of such wickedness deserve punishment, just like bandits!¡±
¡°Yes, arrest them!¡±
The onlookers grew more animated. In addition to ceaseless cursing, some even began hurling trash at Wang Yi and hispanions.
Wang Yi¡¯s expression turned exceedingly grim. Like his nsmen, no matter how he maneuvered, the trash found its mark. The stench was overwhelming.
¡°Mrs. Su, you¡¯ve misunderstood us. We have no intention of seizing Ms. Chen¡¯s property. We¡¯re leaving now, and I assure you, we won¡¯t trouble Ms. Chen again¡
Having spoken, Wang Yi pushed through the crowd, making a quick escape.
His nsmen followed suit, eager to evade the risk of arrest and punishment.
Dirty and smelly, with trash clinging to them, the crowd automatically parted to let them through.
Before the onlookers could vent their fury, theyunched another barrage of trash at the retreating figures.
¡°At least you can run fast! Otherwise, we¡¯d make you regret it!¡±
¡°A bunch of blind viins. Don¡¯t they realize that the heroes Governor Su invited are eradicating scoundrels like them!¡±
¡°You choose not to be virtuous, yet you fancy bing a specter. Should you cross paths with those heroes who champion justice, do you think they¡¯ll spare
your lives?!¡±
Upon hearing these words, Wang Yi and hispanions were genuinely frightened, prompting them to elerate their pace.
Indeed, how could they forget? Numerous martial world heroes had arrived in Shanglin Prefecture. These individuals were dedicated tobating injustice.
In the face of wrongdoing, these heroes were known for their action rather than words.
Should they encounter them, their lives might truly be in peril.
With this realization, they sprinted even faster.
Even if the three elderly men couldn¡¯t match their speed, they paid little heed..
Chapter 574 - 574: Little Thoughts
Chapter 574 - 574: Little Thoughts
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After dismissing Wang Yi and the others,ughter filled the air, yet amidst the mirth, some minds were preupied with contemtion.
Chen Lin¡¯er, still in her early twenties, undoubtedly possessed a reputation for both beauty and virtue. It was widely believed that she would inevitably find a new spouse. For those aspiring to secure such an advantageous match, the prospect of inheriting the dowry of two shops was an enticing incentive.
Adding to the allure was the fact that Chen Lin¡¯er and Mrs. Su were sisters, suggesting a future alliance with Mrs. Su¡¯s blessing. However, the shadow of Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s past indiscretions¡ªhaving been involved with two men¡ªcast a cloud over these potential benefits.
Within the crowd, various individuals harbored diverse intentions. Some sought personal pursuits, while others aimed to secure advantageous matches for their sons or introduce eligible suitors to rtives and friends. The urgency to act swiftly loomed, as they feared losing the opportunity.
The first to approach Chen Lin¡¯er was a woman who gently took her hand, offering sce amid tears. ¡°Daughter, the departed are beyond our reach now. Excessive grief won¡¯t alter the inevitable. It might be wise to release these burdens and move forward.
Chen Lin¡¯er expressed her gratitude with a nod. ¡°Thank you, Auntie.¡±
The woman leaned in, whispering confidentially into Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s ear. Intrigued, others joined in, eager to share their insights.
¡°Lin¡¯er, there¡¯s something you should know¡¡±
¡°I¡¯ve heard something crucial as well. Allow me to enlighten you first¡ ¡°Enough talk. I refuse to hear any more!¡± Chen Lin¡¯er covered her ears, frustration evident in her gaze as she confronted the eager crowd.
¡°I want to make it clear¡ªI won¡¯t entertain the idea of remarriage in the future.
Please refrain from bringing it up again.¡±
¡°Furthermore, I¡¯ve decided to pass on my family¡¯s shop to my third brother. Whether he chooses to continue its operations or sell it fornd, it¡¯s entirely up to him. I¡¯ve already made my decision!¡±
As Chen Lin¡¯er dered this, an awkward silence settled among the onlookers.
The woman who spoke earlier chimed in, ¡°You¡¯re making it sound like everyone has their eyes on your shop. Personally, I can assure you that, at least in my heart, I genuinely appreciate you for your virtue and kindness.¡±
¡°Even if you bring no dowry, my sentiment remains genuine¡¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er interrupted her. ¡°Auntie, I appreciate your sentiments, but I truly have no desire to enter matrimony again.¡±
Despite Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s firm stance, some persisted in their curiosity. Qin Zhenzhen intervened, ¡°Did you not hear what Sister Chen said? She has explicitly stated her reluctance to marry again. Are you trying to y matchmaker against her wishes?¡±
¡°Mrs. Su, we meant no harm.¡±
¡°We certainly wouldn¡¯t force her into anything.¡±
¡°We were merely inquiring. If she¡¯s uninterested, then so be it.¡±
¡°But she¡¯s still so young¡¡±
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s patience wore thin. ¡°Even if she were to consider marriage again, now is not the time. Can you please give her some space?¡±
¡°Enough with the chatter. Please leave!¡±
¡°Grandma Wang, escort them out!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen adopted the demeanor befitting the wife of an official, a posture that could easily unnerve certain individuals.
Before Grandma Wang could take any action, the intruders hastily made their way to the door. It became evident that Grandma Wang possessed martial skills, making a confrontation undesirable for them.
Once the unwee visitors departed, Wang San spoke up, ¡°Sister-inw, I won¡¯t ept your shop. You should keep it for yourself.¡±
¡°You¡¯ll need it to sustain yourself.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er replied, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I have my own means of survival.¡±
With a hopeful gaze, she turned to Qin Zhenzhen. ¡°Mrs. Su, may I serve by your side?¡±
She had contemted her options and believed it might be prudent to remain close to Mrs. Su. Even though they had sessfully repelled the n Leader and others, there was no guarantee they wouldn¡¯t return to pester them in the future.
Unless Governor Su was transferred away from Shanglin.
Yet, that seemed an unlikely scenario..
Chapter 575 - 575: Concerns
Chapter 575 - 575: Concerns
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Qin Zhenzhen expressed mild surprise, ¡°Didn¡¯t you mention wanting to learn cooking from me? Why the sudden desire to be a servant girl again?¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er, feeling a bit embarrassed, exined, ¡°I initially thought I could learn cooking and open a small restaurant or something. But now, after what happened, I realize I was being too naive. The n Leader and others won¡¯t let me off. Even if they don¡¯t directly return, people around me will constantly cause trouble.¡±
¡°I¡¯m willing to offer myself to you, just hoping for safety in the future.¡±
Understanding Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s apprehensions, Qin Zhenzhen empathized with her plight. Widows often faced gossip and unwanted attention, especially if they were attractive with assets. Qin Zhenzhen knew that some might resort to force if she resisted, using societal pressure to coerce her.
Additionally, Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s background posed risks; exposure could lead to dire consequences, including potential conscription into the military camp. The n Leader had already shown suspicion earlier, and further investigation might unveil her true identity.
Considering these factors, Qin Zhenzhen readily epted Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s request. ¡°You don¡¯t have to sell yourself or be my servant girl, but you can stay at my house for the time being. What skills would you like to learn? I can arrange for someone to teach you.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er was ted, almost kneeling to express gratitude, but Qin Zhenzhen stopped her. ¡°Remember, I don¡¯t appreciate people who kneel without a second thought.¡¯
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s father had once served as a minister in the Court of Judicial Review but faced punishment for offending the Public House. With the potential ascent of the Third Prince, there was hope for redressing her family¡¯s grievances, and Chen Lin¡¯er could regain her status as a wealthy youngdy.
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s willingness to ept Chen Lin¡¯er, Wang San felt a sense of relief for her. Despite his determination to protect Chen Lin¡¯er, he acknowledged his own vulnerability, especially against the formidable nsmen and others who might pose threats.
Spection about Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s true identity circted among many, and Wang San privately acknowledged that she didn¡¯t resemble someone who had grown up in the countryside. If the n Leader¡¯s suspicions were correct and she had indeed fled, he recognized his limitations in safeguarding her.
¡°Sister-inw, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll always assist in looking after your shop and house. Every bit of ie will be returned to you, without keeping a penny.¡± Chen Lin¡¯er proposed, ¡°I still believe that selling the house and shop, and acquiringnd under your name, might dissuade the n Leader and others from pestering us any further.¡±
As she voiced this suggestion, a hint of reluctance became apparent. The house and shop symbolized the collective effort of her family and stood as thest remnants left for her by her kin.
However, the necessity to sell it loomed over her.
Wang San saw the merit in selling, but he hesitated to have his name associated with thend he would purchase.
¡°I can venture to a distant location, acquire a parcel ofnd, and ensure the n Leader and others remain unaware. Your name will still be recorded on the title deed.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er adamantly objected, ¡°I¡¯ve already insisted on using your name! Don¡¯t refuse me any longer. I have my reasons for this decision, and please don¡¯t inquire further!¡±
The potential exposure of her true identity risked confiscation of all assets under her name.
Wang San was taken aback; he hadn¡¯t anticipated Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s intense reaction. It became apparent that her identity was moreplex than he had initially thought.
However, the idea of taking over her assets troubled him.
Qin Zhenzhen interjected with a smile, ¡°Sister Chen, it seems you¡¯re reluctant to part with the shops. How about this? I¡¯ll purchase both of these establishments from you and specialize in selling health ingredients and seasonings inside..¡±
Chapter 576 - 576: Nothing Will Happen
Chapter 576 - 576: Nothing Will Happen
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Then, Qin Zhenzhen leaned in and whispered, ¡°Let¡¯s make it look like I bought your shop. In reality, the shop remains yours, and I¡¯ll pay the rent every month.¡±
¡°This way, your nsmen won¡¯t dare to cause trouble again.¡±
¡°And about your desire to learn cooking and health knowledge, if you acquire those skills, I¡¯ll let you manage the shop. You¡¯ll still be thedy boss then.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s two shops had formerly operated as a provision store, primarily managed by her father-inw and husband. As she helped settle affairs and strategize, she revealed her inclination toward business. Despite her years as a behind-the-scenes manager, the grocery store ceased operation after the family tragedy. Ms. Zhang took over forcefully, attempting to rent it out without sess.
The prime location of the two shops in the center of town made them highly sought after. However, the rampant banditry in Shanglin deterred potential tenants, as the exorbitant protection fees dissuaded businesses. In a different setting, these shops wouldmand double the price.
Qin Zhenzhen, eyeing an opportunity to open a branch in Shanglin, found these two shops ideal for her ns. Chen Lin¡¯er, in turn, expressed her delight. ¡°Mrs. Su, if you like my shop, feel free to use it. I won¡¯t charge you rent!¡± ¡°You and Governor Su saved my life. Consider the shop my gift to you.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and replied, ¡°No need for such gestures. It¡¯s settled. I¡¯ll rent your shop and pay six months¡¯ rent in advance.¡±
She retrieved 200 taels of silver and handed it to Chen Lin¡¯er.
¡°Didn¡¯t you want to help Wang San buynd? These prepaid funds can assist him in that endeavor.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er, considering Mrs. Su¡¯s substantial wealth, epted the banknotes with a touch of embarrassment. Mrs. Su¡¯s businesses thrived nationwide, and it seemed inconceivable to receive her shop for free.
¡°Thank you, Mrs. Sul¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s gratitude surpassed mere words, and she handed the banknotes to Wang San.
¡°Use this money to purchase farnd and embark on a new life. Live with dignity, and ensure the Wang family continues to thrive. If you have sons in the future, you can even consider adopting one under your brother¡¯s name.¡± Wang San epted the banknote, his gratitude beyond words.
¡°Thank you, Mrs. Su! Thank you, Sister-inw! I¡¯ll certainly lead a dignified life!¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er promptly apanied Qin Zhenzhen back to the Su Residence.
Su Ning eagerly awaited them at the entrance, rushing over upon seeing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s carriage return.
¡°Third Sister-inw, where did you go? Why didn¡¯t you inform me?¡±
Concern etched across her face as she discovered that Qin Zhenzhen had only brought an elderly woman along, prompting worry.
Su Ning had attempted to seek her third sister-inw, but the whereabouts remained unknown. Her inquiries yielded no information from others, and even the dispatch of a letter to Third Brother resulted only in a reassuring note.
The message read: Don¡¯t worry, your third sister-inw is safe.
Su Bin understood that Qin Zhenzhen had visited Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s residence and was out of harm¡¯s way.
Qin Zhenzhen had surpassed the initial critical months of her pregnancy, and her early diforts had subsided. Although her baby bump wasn¡¯t conspicuous, her mental well-being mirrored that of an ordinary person.
The elderly woman apanying her possessed formidable martial arts skills, capable of handling multiple opponents alone. Su Bin had also stationed covert guards to ensure her safety.
Additionally, Qin Zhenzhen, endowed with inherent strength and martial arts prowess, could defend herself proficiently even against skilled adversaries..
Chapter 577 - 577: A Feeling of Achievement
Chapter 577 - 577: A Feeling of Achievement
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Qin Zhenzhen gently pulled Chen Lin¡¯er towards Su Ning and introduced, ¡°I visited Sister Chen¡¯s house. This is Sister Chen, you can call her Sister Lin¡¯er.¡± Su Ning immediately recognized Chen Lin¡¯er and expressed her surprise.
Unable to contain her excitement, Su Ning took Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s hand. ¡°Sister
Lin¡¯er, you¡¯re truly beautiful!¡±
Su Ning had attended her third brother¡¯s trial, but at that time, Chen Lin¡¯er was d in a prison uniform with disheveled hair, nowhere near as stunning as she appeared now.
¡°Miss Su, you¡¯re even more beautiful,¡± Chen Lin¡¯er reciprocated, touched by Su Ning¡¯s warmth.
In ancient times, a woman¡¯s chastity held paramount importance, and Chen
Lin¡¯er had anticipated being met with disapproval wherever she went. Yet, Su Ning¡¯sck of discrimination came as a pleasant surprise, revealing the forgiving nature of Governor Su¡¯s family.
Suddenly, Su Ning¡¯s expression shifted as she pondered a concern.
¡°Third Sister-inw, did someone bully Sister Lin¡¯er?¡±
She recalled overhearing her third brother and third sister-inw discussing the threat of extinction the previous day. Could those individuals have swiftly targeted Sister Lin¡¯er¡¯s assets?
Qin Zhenzhen shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate Sister Lin¡¯er. Ordinary people can¡¯t bully her.¡±
Su Ning remained skeptical. ¡°Really?¡±
¡°When I saw you bringing Grandma Wang out, I thought you were ready for a fight.¡±
Grandma Wang, looking slightly aggrieved, chimed in, ¡°Young Miss, not only can I fight, but I¡¯m also proficient in various other skills.¡±
Su Ning burst intoughter. ¡°I was just teasing. Look at your expression. Anyone unfamiliar might think I¡¯m causing trouble.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er shed a long-lost smile.
She hadn¡¯t anticipated such yful interactions with the head of the Su family and their household staff.
Qin Zhenzhen redirected the conversation to Su Ning, saying, ¡°Enough with the jokes. Let¡¯s get serious. Starting today, Sister Chen will stay here. Prepare a room for her.¡¯
¡°She¡¯s eager to learn cooking and has other interests. I¡¯m entrusting her education to you.¡±
Su Ning joyfully eximed, ¡°Alright, alright! Finally, I get to teach students again. ¡±
Previously, in Meijiang Prefecture City, Su Ning had been assisting in the shop and also had the opportunity to teach other students. She was considered one of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s first disciples and was also Grandma Qin¡¯s apprentice.
Qin Zhenzhen, often upied, spent a considerable amount of time learning from Grandma Qin. She rified that they weren¡¯t strictly taking in disciples but rather students. The learning process involved nearly ten individuals, and Qin Zhenzhen structured it into three levels, concluding with an assessment. Those who didn¡¯t pass initially continued learning, while those with limited talent were advised to explore alternative paths.
The beginner level involved learning culinary skills, mastering fundamental cooking techniques, and understanding relevant acupuncture points.
Moving on to the intermediate level meant acquiring health massage techniques and learning how to pair ingredients to achieve the effects of food therapy.
The advanced level delved into medical knowledge equivalent to a doctor¡¯s consultation. Students at this stage could diagnose issues with a patient¡¯s body and determine suitable dietary therapy forms.
Su Ning, with her intelligence, had already sessfully passed the intermediate assessment, making her eligible to teach junior students.
Having apanied her third brother and third sister-inw to Shanglin, Su Ning found herself with ample free time. While her inclination was to be around her third sister-inw, she also understood the need for Jiang Yao to have her personal space, especially when her third brother returned.
Now, with the prospect of her third sister-inw recruiting students again, it signaled progress in opening a shop in Shanglin. Su Ning was thrilled to have a new purpose.
Being a teacher at such a young age brought her a sense of aplishment.
Observing Su Ning¡¯s tion, Qin Zhenzhen felt a quiet joy. She resolved to find more engaging tasks for Su Ning, fostering a sense of aplishment and preventing her from bing too focused on matters of love..
Chapter 578 - 578: Not Marrying A Rich Family
Chapter 578 - 578: Not Marrying A Rich Family
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Ning joyfully sped Chen Lin¡¯er¡¯s hand and led her to organize a room.
Enthusiastically, she couldn¡¯t resist exining to Chen Lin¡¯er that the learning processprised three distinct tiers: elementary, intermediate, and advanced.
¡°At each level, there¡¯s a stringent assessment. Those unable to pass will be eliminated, while exceptional students may take charge or be teachers.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er listened attentively, intrigued by this innovative teaching approach.
Filled with optimism, Su Ning continued, ¡°My third brother is determined to oversee the flourishing of Shanglin into a prosperous city.¡±
¡°Meanwhile, my third sister-inw ns to establish three types of shops in Shanglin. The first focuses on selling seasonings and curated dietary medicine packets, with the potential for numerous franchise outlets.¡±
¡°Given your family¡¯s business, you could even be the proprietress once you¡¯ve mastered it.¡±
¡°The second is a health hall, essentially a rehabilitation center. It¡¯s not suitable for widespread openings due to the need for capable individuals to manage the facility responsibly for the customers.¡±
¡°The third is a training center, where individuals pay tuition fees to attend sses.¡±
¡°However, with my third sister-inw expecting, the lingering threat from malevolent forces in the mountains has dyed her ns. Otherwise, this venture would havemenced long ago.¡±
Chen Lin¡¯er remarked, ¡°It can still be initiated soon. The shop details are already decided.¡±
In the original narrative, Su Ning was portrayed as infatuated, fixated on winning the love of the Third Prince and contemting harmful actions against his beloved. Qin Zhenzhen aspired to witness the current Su Ning channel her energy into a beloved career, recognizing that such dedication would fortify her against the belief that love was the sole purpose of life. As Su Ning steered towards this desired path, Qin Zhenzhen smiled knowingly.
¡°Wife, what are youughing at?¡±
Su Bin saw her smile from afar.
Qin Zhenzhen shared with Su Bin her observations of Su Ning¡¯s recent performance.
¡°See how devoted Su Ning is to her chosen career now? In the future, she won¡¯t be like those youngdies who only orbit around the men in their homes after marriage.¡±
While Su Bin didn¡¯t fully grasp Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s meaning, he naturally felt pleased that she was helping his sister be a capable person.
Strangely, despite spending considerable time with Qin Zhenzhen, Su Bin found himself not disliking her words and actions. On the contrary, he sensed a logical coherence in them, considering the standards of an ancient man.
Su Binmented, ¡°If Little Sister is willing, she can choose not to marry into a wealthy family.¡±
He knew that marrying into affluence often came at the cost of sacrificing one¡¯s freedom. The constraints imposed were particrly pronounced, and the cutthroatpetition in wealthy family harems could be more formidable than a real battlefield.
Recalling the tragic fate of his biological grandmother, who became a pawn in the harem¡¯s power struggle, Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but feel a pang of sadness. Her days of happiness were short-lived, and she eventually met a tragic end at the hands of a concubine.
Determined to spare his own family from such turmoil, Su Bin resolved, ¡°My harem must be clean¡ªwith my wife alone.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen sighed in agreement. ¡°Exactly. I also hope she won¡¯t marry into a wealthy family. It would help her avoid many unpleasant experiences.¡±
Despite these aspirations, Qin Zhenzhen acknowledged the challenge, noting Su Ning¡¯s disdain for ordinary people and her heart seemingly reserved only for the male lead. Su Bin, on the other hand, held different values in this regard.
¡°She grew up in the countryside and doesn¡¯t understand many rules. Even if I hire a nanny to teach her, there will be times when she reveals his true nature..¡±
Chapter 579 - 579: Battle in the Mountain
Chapter 579 - 579: Battle in the Mountain
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Rather than navigating the intricacies of a wealthy family, it¡¯s wiser to marry into a middle-ss household and choose a man who can appreciate her,¡± Qin Zhenzhen suggested.
¡°Preferably one who doesn¡¯t entertain the idea of taking concubines.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled knowingly. ¡°In this world, it¡¯s challenging for a capable man to abstain from having a concubine, given the cultural norms of ancient times. Even gifts and ttery between men often involve beautiful concubines.¡±
Su Bin responded confidently, ¡°There are exceptions to everything, and I can certainly be one.¡±
yfully, Qin Zhenzhen teased him, ¡°We¡¯re still young. You can say that now. Who knows if you might change your mind when I¡¯m old?¡±
Su Bin asserted, ¡°I promise not to.¡±
Curiously, Qin Zhenzhen asked, ¡°What if I die before you? Would you consider marrying someone else?¡±
Before Qin Zhenzhen could finish her sentence, Su Bin yfully covered her mouth.
Concerned about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s pregnancy, Su Bin hesitated to prolong the kiss but seemed satisfied after a brief taste.
¡°From now on, don¡¯t mention anything about dying before me. We¡¯ll be happy together forever.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen clicked her tongue teasingly. ¡°Look at you. Aren¡¯t you afraid of being seen? If you want me to stop, just say it. Why resort to such methods? This is the courtyard.¡±
Su Bin hugged her and chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s fine here. There are fewer servants in our house, all busy with other tasks. Who would dare to peek?¡±
¡°By the way, let me update you on the situation in Heaven Mountain.¡± Seated side by side, Su Bin gently held Qin Zhenzhen in his arms as she continued to share thetest developments.
When Su Bin first arrived in Shanglin, he initiated a call to action by posting a hero¡¯s promation. The Dragon Phoenix Hall¡¯s amplification of the message quickly stirred up a storm in the martial world.
Initially, the head of the martial artsmunity mmed the table, dering, ¡°We martial artists bear the responsibility of rectifying injustices in the world! Given the limited military strength of the imperial court, let us dispense justice on behalf of the heavens! It¡¯s also a message to the people that if the soldiers can¡¯t do it, we can!¡±
Initially, the martial arts leader reached out to heroes from orthodox sects and civil organizations aligned with these sects. Later, organizations bridging the gap between the orthodox and the underworld also joined the cause. Recognizing the practicality of arger force, the martial arts leader weed their involvement.
Upon their arrival in Shanglin, Su Bin extended a warm wee to the heroes. Whether intentionally or not, he hinted that the bandits atop the mountain had amassed considerable wealth in gold, silver, and treasures over time. If soldiers were to surround them, these spoils would have to be surrendered to the treasury. However, with the heroes of the martial world leading the charge, there would be no obligation to relinquish these gains.
¡°This siege is entirelyposed of such soldiers, all thanks to the heroes here,¡± Su Bin emphasized. ¡°The mountain bandits are a ruthless bunch. If necessary, don¡¯t hesitate to eliminate them. No need for formalities like registration or handing over the spoils from the mountains.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s words echoed the sentiments of the assembled heroes, some of whom were motivated by the allure of gold, silver, and jewelry. Having gained Su Bin¡¯s trust, these individuals became even more eager to partake in suppressing the bandits.
These heroes disyed amendable level of discipline, adhering to the directives of the martial arts world leader.
Having previously conferred, they devised a n: all treasures acquired in the mountains would be consolidated. Upon sessfully eradicating the bandits, rewards would be distributed based on each individual¡¯s contributions.
The influence of the martial arts world leader should not be underestimated. He held a position akin to the highestmander among the soldiers,manding respect and authority.
In a swift and coordinated effort, they sessfully dismantled two sizable bandit strongholds..
Chapter 580 - 580: Equal Sharing
Chapter 580 - 580: Equal Sharing
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
They seized a substantial haul of gold, silver, jewelry, and finely crafted iron weapons from the bandit nests. The bandit hideouts were well-stocked with ready-made daily necessities, featuring sturdy houses, opulent treasuries, and ample granaries, resembling small kingdoms.
The martial arts world leader, along with the assembled heroes, established a base in the mountains. They systematically dismantled nearby smaller bandit nests and pursued scattered bandits who had fled deeper into the mountains.
News of the ongoing mountain battles reached Su Bin daily, and he shared the updates with Qin Zhenzhen.
Curious, she inquired, ¡°What do you n to do with the gold and silver?¡±
The mountain bandits often ventured to affluent cities to pige before returning to Shanglin for respite. Once they identified a new target, they would emerge from the mountains tomit their crimes.
Based on the information she had gathered, Qin Zhenzhen already knew that one of the significant bandit nests belonged to descendants of the previous dynasty, while the other served as a training base recently acquired by the Public House. Interestingly, these two bandit groups were unaware of each
other¡¯s secrets and even sought to recruit the other into their ranks.
The umted wealth of gold, silver, and jewelry in the mountains was staggering. Although the martial arts world leader appeared to lead the charge openly, three covert forces were at y.
Firstly, there was the martial arts world leader and renowned sects, along with various heroes.
Secondly, operatives from the Third Prince and Lin Yue¡¯s faction maintained concealed identities. Instead, they appeared as some civilian organizations.
Thirdly, operatives dispatched by the Dragon Phoenix Hall were part of the effort. They didn¡¯t conceal their identities from the martial arts world leader and Lin Yue.
All the intelligence from the mountain and the information gathered by spies originated from the Dragon Phoenix Hall. Despite their limited numbers, their contributions were on par with those of the martial arts world leader and Lin Yue.
While the martial arts world leader and Lin Yue maintained a mutual understanding not to publicly disclose their identities, astute individuals within the martial artsmunity could make educated guesses.
The coordinated efforts of these three factions,plete with a wellid n and infiltrated spies, facilitated the swift capture of the bandit nests, ensuring an inevitable victory.
However, casualties were inevitable, and the challengey in fairly distributing the spoils of war.
Dividing the spoils into three parts risked discontent among the factions. The martial arts world leader had deployed the most significant number of individuals, resulting in considerable casualties that required substantialpensation.
On Lin Yue¡¯s side, although the numbers were fewer, all operatives had undergone specialized training, capable of handling multiple opponents. Moreover, they took the risk of being exposed to participate in suppressing the bandits, enticed by the prospect of wealth in the bandit nests.
The Dragon Phoenix Hall sent the fewest personnel but made the most substantial contributions. Without their intelligence and spies, the swift victory in the battle would not have been possible.
It would be ideal if the spoils of war could be distributed fairly among the three parties.
Su Bin smiled reassuringly and said, ¡°Wife, don¡¯t worry. They¡¯ve already hashed out the details.¡±
¡°The first priority is to allocatepensation, which will then be divided equally among the three factions.¡±
¡°Lin Yue and his group are interested in weapons, while the martial arts world leader prefers gold, silver, and jewelry. The Dragon Phoenix Hall has expressed a preference for banknotes.¡±
¡°These items are interchangeable, making it a convenient arrangement.¡±
¡°Both the martial arts world leader and Lin Yue are straightforward individuals.
This joint effort can be considered a mutually beneficial deal for them.¡±
¡°As for the Dragon Phoenix Hall, given our limited manpower and the need for their assistance, it¡¯s a fair exchange to allocate them a third.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen felt a sense of relief..
Chapter 581 - 581: Petition
Chapter 581 - 581: Petition
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Upon seeing Su Bin¡¯s fox-like smile, Qin Zhenzhen had a realization.
¡°I¡¯m guessing the Dragon Phoenix Hall probably has more than a third of the spoils, doesn¡¯t it?¡±
The members of the Dragon Phoenix Hall were known for their cunning and scheming, much like their masters. Their roles as spies in the mountains suggested they held a strategic position.
Su Bin chuckled, ¡°You know me well, wife!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen gave him a knowing look. ¡°I knew it. It¡¯s impossible for you not to snatch the lion¡¯s share first.
In orchestrating this encirclement, Su Bin had taken substantial risks, particrly by destroying the Public House¡¯s training base. The loss incurred was the Public House¡¯s funds, and if they chose to retaliate, Su Bin might face severe consequences.
However, observing Su Bin¡¯s confident demeanor, Qin Zhenzhen understood that he had likely devised a n to address any repercussions.
¡°Have you thought about handling the aftermath?¡± she inquired.
Su Bin looked self-assured. ¡°I¡¯ve had it all figured out, and it¡¯s foolproof.¡±
When distributing the hero invitations, he had simultaneously submitted a memorial to the emperor, detailing the situation in Shanglin and the audacity of the bandits. He requested the emperor to dispatch troops to encircle and eliminate the bandits.
Su Bin was aware that the Public House would likely suppress this memorial and keep it from reaching the emperor, as they were hesitant to send troops to Shanglin. If they had been willing, the troops would have been deployed long before.
Initially, Su Bin was uncertain about the exact reasons behind Shanglin
Prefecture¡¯s dire state. He spected that it might have been abandoned by the Public House as a form of punishment for disobedient officials, given the rampant banditry.
However, heter discovered that the Public House had more ambitious ns¡ªto transform the bandit nest into their training base.
Following the submission of the first memorial, Su Binposed a second one. In it, he analyzed the challenges of encircling and suppressing the bandits, acknowledging the imperial court¡¯s difficulties in dispatching troops. Nevertheless, he revealed a recent death threat from the bandits, demanding his resignation under threat of harm to his entire family.
As a steadfast imperial official, Su Bin felt a duty to fulfill the emperor¡¯s expectations and prevent the continued devastation of Shanglin Prefecture by bandits. While understanding theplexities the imperial court faced, he stressed that his confrontation with the bandits had escted to a life-and-death situation.
Choosing not to explicitly outline his n to widely distribute hero posts and engage righteous individuals from the martial arts world to eliminate the bandits, Su Bin added an additional memorial after the three factions entered the mountains. Only then did he report the matter of inviting the martial arts world leader and heroes to the emperor.
By the time the memorial reached the capital, the bandit nest had already been dismantled. When representatives from the capital arrived, the spoils of war had been distributed, with only the captured bandits handed over to the Imperial Court.
Examining the captives, it became evident that the individuals Su Bin had invited inadvertently stumbled upon the nest of the descendants of the previous dynasty and the covert base of the Public House.
Naturally, the Public House possessed the means to manipte or erase any confessions unfavorable to them.
Even if the Imperial Court learned about the distribution of the spoils, there was little they could do. Attempting to reim the loot would undoubtedly lead to public criticism, using the Imperial Court of shamelessness.
Refusing to dispatch troops was already a contentious decision, and attempting to recover the spoils would further damage the Imperial Court¡¯s reputation. Moreover, the recovered spoils might not even suffice to cover thepensation for potential casualties if an encirclement were to ur.
In such a delicate situation, the Imperial Court found itself in a challenging position..
Chapter 582 - 582: Running Around to Tell Them
Chapter 582 - 582: Running Around to Tell Them
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin had meticulously nned every aspect.
Anticipating that the Imperial Court wouldn¡¯t inquire about the spoils of war and might even reward them to maintain a positive reputation, he strategically ounted for potential oues.
The Public House, having suffered silently, couldn¡¯t openly punish Su Bin without risking further damage to their reputation. Importantly, the Duke remained unaware of Su Bin¡¯s orchestrated ns. They likely believed it was a stroke of luck, attributing the sess to his wife¡¯s supposed ability to bring prosperity.
Observing Su Bin¡¯s self-satisfied expression, Qin Zhenzhen yfully reached out to pinch his face.
¡°Alright! So, you want to use me to talk again!¡±
¡°I¡¯m just an ordinary housewife. You make me sound like a goddess.¡±
Su Bin, not evading her touch, knew Qin Zhenzhen wouldn¡¯t truly harm him.
¡°I¡¯m speaking the truth. My wife is inherently blessed. She genuinely brings prosperity to our family and me.¡±
¡°My only concern is that the wretched Crown Prince might have designs on my wife again when the timees.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen tenderly touched her stomach.
¡°Don¡¯t worry. The Crown Prince is just a pervert. I¡¯m almost the child¡¯s mother.
How could he harbor any intentions?¡±
Unexpectedly finding herself pregnant at this time, Qin Zhenzhen dismissed the notion that the Crown Prince would persist in pursuing her.
Su Bin nodded. ¡°You have a point.¡±
However, Su Bin¡¯s inner thoughts diverged from what he expressed.
He was acutely aware of the prevalent belief in metaphysics among the people of their world. If the Crown Prince was fixated on marrying someone, he wouldn¡¯t easily give up, even if the person was already married.
Despite these concerns, Su Bin refrained from voicing his worries aloud. He understood the importance of preserving his wife¡¯s peace of mind, especially during pregnancy. The belief that pregnant women should avoid agitation or distress motivated him to share only positive news with his wife.
His utmost priority was ensuring her happiness and well-being.
The three factions sessfully surrounded and concluded the battle against the bandits within five days, with the spoils of war already distributed before leaving the mountain. All three parties expressed satisfaction with the oues.
Despite some bandits managing to escape and others meeting their demise, a significant number were captured¡ªover a hundred individuals¡ªnow confined in the government office¡¯s prison. The prison, fortunately repaired by Su Bin beforehand, amodated these captives.
As they awaited the Imperial Court¡¯s representatives to take custody of the prisoners, Su Bin diligently attended daily interrogations, questioning both the actual bandits and those who coborated with them outside the mountain. Within a few days, more than ten prisoners filled the cells.
Word of Governor Su¡¯s actions spread throughout Shanglin Prefecture.
¡°Governor Su is truly the savior of our impoverished people!¡±
¡°This is fantastic. The mountain¡¯s malevolent forces have been eradicated, and even those who colluded with them are now behind bars. Peace is finally within reach!¡±
¡°Absolutely! I heard they burned the houses in the mountains and the corpses of the evildoers, creating a fewrge graves. No one will dare to venture there again¡ªfearful of the ghosts haunting those malevolent individuals.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s not dwell on it. I need to write to my second uncle¡¯s family and move back to Shanglin. We can finally lead a peaceful life.¡±
¡°I must personally bring my daughter back. No longer will I worry about her being abducted by those malevolent individuals and thrown into the mountains..¡±
Chapter 583 - 583: Objection
Chapter 583 - 583: Objection
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Furthermore, upon receiving news of Qin Silong¡¯s victorious battle, the emperor in the capital was ted. Swiftly acknowledging the aplishment, he bestowed numerous rewards upon Qin Silong.
In addition to elevating Qin Silong to the position of official head ofmander, the emperor granted him a residence in the capital and gifted him two beauties as concubines. These rewards were promptly moved into Qin Silong¡¯s new residence.
The emperor didn¡¯t stop at these honors; he also sent valuable items to Su Bin¡¯s residence in the capital. Unfazed by these actions, the Public House chose to turn a blind eye, understanding that the emperor sought to please Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin, anticipating their financial support.
This strategic move by the emperor was perceived by the Public House as somewhat naive. Aware that the emperor aimed to cultivate loyalty and gratitude from Qin Silong and Su Ping, they recognized it as a subtle attempt to counterbnce the influence of the Public House.
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen, both astute individuals, understood that the emperor¡¯s efforts to approach them were restricted under the Public House¡¯s control. While there were concerns that the emperor might align with the Third Prince, a deeper analysis would reveal the impracticality of such a choice.
The Third Prince, even with the backing of the General Manor,cked the strength to seize a prominent position. The intelligence disyed by Qin Silong on the battlefield could not be underestimated, and the Public House reluctantly acknowledged his role as a capable deputy general.
ording to the reports from the military camp, the old general had dispatched individuals to investigate Qin Silong and Su Ping. The findings revealed nothing unusual or suspicious about them. The old general even asserted that the military camp required brave generals like Qin Silong and Su Ping.
In response to this positive assessment, the Public House temporarily halted its persecution of Qin Silong and Su Ping. Simultaneously, they received Su Bin¡¯s first memorial.
As anticipated by Su Bin, the Public House suppressed the first memorial. Their strategy aimed to instill fear and regret in Su Bin, intending to make him seek reconciliation after enduring a year and a half. The Public House envisioned transferring Su Bin back to the capital for their purposes at that point.
Their primary interesty in Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s money-making abilities and the perceived notion that she was a harbinger of good luck. If they could bring her into their fold, they believed it would lead to significant aplishments.
In their assessment, Su Bin¡¯s intelligence and strategic prowess were secondary considerations. To achieve their goal of usurping the throne, a substantial financial investment would be required.
Confident in their control of the situation, the Public House was taken by surprise when they received Su Bin¡¯s second memorial. Upon reading its contents, they burst intoughter¡ªhow could Su Bin invite the leader of the martial arts world, renowned sects, and martial arts heroes?
This time, the Public House decided not to suppress Su Bin¡¯s memorial. Instead, they treated it as a lighthearted matter and allowed the emperor to peruse its contents.
After reading Su Bin¡¯s memorial, the emperor was genuinely impressed by his strategic insights.
¡°Countier Su is truly astute to devise a n that eliminates bandits without draining the country¡¯s military and financial resources!¡±
Convinced of the need to support Su Bin, the emperor considered sending troops to aid him. Despite the Public House agreeing to deploy troops, they objected to dispatching forces from the nearest military camp.
¡°Your Majesty, the bandits around Shanglin Prefecture pose limited threats. At most, they venture out of the mountains to pilfer necessities for their daily survival.¡±
¡°Furthermore, their expertise in mountainous terrain makes it challenging to capture them swiftly. If we encircle them with troops, it might take a year or two to apprehend them..¡±
Chapter 584 - 584: Disadvantage
Chapter 584 - 584: Disadvantage
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°A year and a half is already a conservative estimate. It might take a few years
to truly apprehend them.¡±
¡°For the sake of a few thieves, we would have to transfer soldiers from the border region. If an issue arises there, the gains won¡¯t outweigh the losses.¡±
¡°If the Emperor insists on deploying troops, issue a decree to transfer individuals from the local area.¡¯
The Public House¡¯s strategy was well-conceived. The individuals transferred from the local areascked significantbat experience, making them easy targets for elimination. Moreover, mobilizing people from the local area would consume time.
The process of sending people from the capital to the designated location would take around ten days. Once they arrived at Shanglin, an additional ten days would pass.
As a month passed, the Public House intended to inform those in the mountains to prepare for the elimination of these individuals in one swift move, undermining Su Bin and the emperor.
However, before they could finalize their approach, Su Bin¡¯s third memorial arrived. While the Public House didn¡¯t consider the situation particrly serious, they favored a temporary transfer method. In response, they promptly dispatched someone to deliver the message.
Soon after sending the letter, Su Bin¡¯s fourth memorial arrived. On the Public House¡¯s end, they had achieved a significant victory in encircling the bandits. More than a hundred prisoners were now detained in the government office¡¯s prison, awaiting representatives from the capital to receive them.
It was at this point that the Public House realized they had underestimated the impact of Su Bin¡¯s hero post and his luck. He had effectively leveraged individuals from the martial arts world to earn significant merit for himself, causing a silent loss for the Public House.
To mitigate the situation, they suppressed Su Bin¡¯s memorial and swiftly dispatched representatives to Shanglin Prefecture. Their goal was to reach the emperor before Su Bin and erase any confessions that could prove detrimental to the Public House.
Two dayster, the Public House presented Su Bin¡¯s memorial to the emperor. Delighted, the emperor sought to transfer Su Bin back to the capital immediately. However, the Public House intervened, advising caution.
¡°Your Majesty, Governor Su has just arrived in Shanglin Prefecture and is off to a promising start. It would be hasty to transfer him back so soon. There¡¯s no guarantee the next governor will be as effective.¡±
¡°Why not allow Governor Su to remain there until everything in Shanglin
Prefecture is stabilized? We can always transfer him backter. Besides, only
Governor Su seems capable of handling those ruthless bandits!¡±
This counsel served as a subtle reminder to the emperor about Su Bin¡¯s capabilities and hinted that he might have influential backers.
While the Public House considered the possibility that the Third Prince and the General Manor had supported Su Bin, internal discussions led them to deem it unlikely. They reasoned that if the General Manor were involved and discovered that one of the significant bandit nests was the Public House¡¯s training base, it could lead to a major controversy. To preempt this, they promptly reported the news directly to the emperor.
However, this wasn¡¯t the reality.
In fact, Su Bin had omitted any mention of his inquiries to the captives in his memorial.
This showcased Su Bin¡¯s cleverness.
The emperor found the Public House¡¯s reasoning convincing and decided to reward Su Bin instead.
The treasures and rewards were dispatched to Shanglin Prefecture by an imperial envoy.
The representatives sent by the Public House, however, were already a step ahead. They traveled tirelessly, reaching Shanglin Prefecture a few dayster..
Chapter 585 - 585: Nonsense
Chapter 585 - 585: Nonsense
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The individual dispatched ahead by the Public House was a shrewd middle-aged man nked by two young guards, all evidently skilled in martial arts.
Disying a confidential document, the middle-aged envoy asserted that he had been authorized by the emperor to assist Su Bin with the case. However, before Su Bin could thoroughly inspect the document, the middle-aged man swiftly withdrew it. A discerning nce from Su Bin immediately exposed the forgery. There was no room for spection; these three were sent by the Public House to eradicate any incriminating evidence.
Despite recognizing their true purpose, Su Bin feigned ignorance of their identities and warmly weed them.
¡°Governor Li, please follow me.¡±
Su Bin took the initiative to present the confessions to Governor Li. After perusing them, Governor Li seemed perplexed.
¡°Have you interrogated all the captured bandits?¡± he inquired.
¡°Not all of them, but all the leaders have been interrogated,¡± Su Bin replied.
Governor Li scrutinized the confessions and probed further, ¡°What transpired? These bandits exhibit audacity. Could there be another mastermind behind them?¡±
Su Bin had devised a strategy to handle the individuals sent by the Public House.
¡°The preliminary interrogations have unveiled a significant secret!¡±
Su Bin feigned excitement.
¡°Governor Li, peruse these confessions, and you¡¯ll uncover the truth!¡± Two substantial stacks of confessions were presented, and Governor Li began to peruse them attentively.
A pile of confessions detailed the heinous activities of the true bandits: they had not onlymitted robberies and murders but also kidnapped several girls,pelling them into mountain captivity to serve as unwilling wives. The collusion extended beyond the mountain, involving individuals who were clearly documented.
The remaining part of the confession disclosed that these coborators were affiliated with the descendants of the prior dynasty, with the bandit stronghold serving as their covert headquarters.
Uponpleting the reading, Governor Li breathed a sigh of relief, finding no confessions detrimental to the Public House. Nevertheless, a sense of curiosity tinged with suspicion prompted him to scrutinize Su Bin.
¡°Have you interrogated all the leaders, both major and minor?¡± he queried. Su Bin affirmed, ¡°I¡¯ve questioned them thoroughly.¡±
Governor Li cut to the chase, ¡°Did any of them attempt to smear the Public House during the interrogation?¡±
Pretending surprise, Su Bin responded, ¡°Governor Li¡¯s foresight is remarkable.
Indeed, there were individuals spreading baseless usations!¡±
¡°These individuals, unmistakably tied to the previous dynasty, falsely imed allegiance to the Public House. They asserted that the grand banditir was, in reality, the covert training center of the Public House.¡±
¡°Of course, I dismissed their ims and subjected them to torture. Predictably, midway through, they begged for mercy, altering their testimony. Now they insist they¡¯re remnants of the prior dynasty, and the bandit stronghold served as a ndestine training ground for their cause.¡±
Governor Li continued to probe Su Bin, ¡°Why did you doubt the bandits¡¯ confessions?¡±
Su Bin replied earnestly, ¡°Isn¡¯t it evident that this is a fabrication?¡±
¡°The Public House holds the emperor¡¯s utmost trust, gaining support for all its endeavors. If they intended to train guards, why resort to ndestine mountain training? Moreover, it¡¯s too remote from the capital, making management impractical.¡±
¡°Only those from the prior dynasty, desperate and hidden, would seclude themselves in mountains, covertly honing death warriors, with hopes of staging a resurgence someday.¡±
¡°I believe these individuals have already fallen victim to the indoctrination of the remnants of the prior dynasty, and their loyalty lies firmly with them. Despite facing imminent demise, they cling to their distorted beliefs, refusing to divulge the truth, instead harboring delusions of implicating the Public
House.¡±
¡°I certainly won¡¯t be swayed by such tactics.¡±
Governor Limended Su Bin, saying, ¡°Your understanding of the situation is astute.¡±
Su Bin, suppressing his inner reservations, stated, ¡°Any reasonable person would see it that way..¡±
Chapter 586 - 586: Response
Chapter 586 - 586: Response
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Governor Li inquired once more, ¡°Who were the individuals initially spreading falsehoods andter altering their confessions? Assist me in identifying them.¡± ¡°Certainly,¡± Su Bin agreed, nodding.
He retrieved several documents from the stack of confessions and handed them to Governor Li.
¡°These individuals hold significant positions, with one appearing to be the chief. Nearly everyone in the bandit nest defers to him.¡±
Governor Li expedited the trial that night.
The following day, Governor Li solemnly informed Su Bin that he had been dispatched in advance by the emperor. He identified certain individuals as problematic and insisted on secretly bringing them back to the capital without divulging his early arrival to the imperial envoy trailing him.
After conveying this information, Governor Li scrutinized Su Bin. ¡°Do youprehend my reasons for doing this?¡±
Su Bin shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t fully understand.¡±
Governor Li whispered, ¡°The Emperor suspects the Public House harbors hidden motives. He specifically sent me to uncover the truth. The imperial envoy shares a close rtionship with the Public House, and it could be detrimental if they learn of the investigation.¡±
Su Bin grasped the situation. ¡°I understand, Governor Li. Your secret is safe with me.¡±
¡°If you discover any issues with these individuals, take them away. I¡¯ll promptly expunge their names from the records.¡±
Governor Li smiled, patting Su Bin¡¯s shoulder. ¡°How should we erase them?¡± Su Bin suggested, ¡°Just include them in the list of deceased individuals.¡±
¡°Nothing is more secure than the dead.¡±
Governor Li expressed satisfaction with Su Bin¡¯s cooperation, patting his shoulder again. ¡°Well done, Governor Su! I¡¯ll make sure to speak highly of your efforts in front of the Emperor.¡±
Your future is limitless.
He never underestimated Su Bin¡¯s ability to discern his identity. Su Bin, a person worthy of the Public House¡¯s attention, was far from simple-minded.
Yet, rather than covertly delivering the individual he sought to the General Manor, Su Bin readily handed them over. This act suggested that Su Bin had not yet aligned himself with any particr faction.
Governor Li departed Shanglin Prefecture with satisfaction, taking those individuals with him.
On the second day following Governor Li¡¯s departure, the imperial envoy arrived in Shanglin with a conspicuous entourage, bringing the emperor¡¯s reward. Su Bin received them calmly, tactfully avoiding any mention of Governor Li¡¯s ndestine visit.
Undoubtedly, the imperial envoy hailed from the Public House. The Public
House, now in control, dictated the personnel sent to handle such matters. Their reluctance to delegate this responsibility to others reflected theirmitment to maintaining control.
Su Bin adhered to his preconceived n and drafted a detailed memorial, aligning his exnation with what he hadmunicated to both the imperial envoy and Governor Li.
¡°I never anticipated such an enthusiastic response to the hero post I posted.¡±
¡°We had a sufficient number of people, each equipped with their own weapons, and they even arranged for their own sustenance and amodations. The battle n was entirely of their devising.¡±
¡°After our victory, I personally covered the expenses for the celebratory banquet, utilizing funds from my own pocket. Additionally, all spoils of war were distributed aspensation.¡±
¡°I refrained from requesting reimbursement, as I felt it would be awkward, and they might notply. In fact, it might even lead to the opposite oue.¡± ¡°I believe it¡¯s wiser not to scrutinize these heroes too closely.¡±
In essence, provoking these individuals would likely lead to unfavorable consequences for him.
Su Bin wished for the Emperor¡¯s understanding regarding his predicament.
Despite the imperial envoy¡¯s affiliation with the Public House, explicit instructions had been given not to pose challenges for Su Bin.
The transition proceeded seamlessly, and shortly thereafter, the imperial envoy transported the primary suspect back to the capital..
Chapter 587 - 587: The Right Track
Chapter 587 - 587: The Right Track
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After the imperial envoy departed from Shanglin Prefecture, Su Bin let out a sigh of relief.
Finally, everything had reached its conclusion.
Fortunately, his n unfolded seamlessly from start to finish.
Every detail unfolded exactly as he had anticipated.
Not a single hint of Lin Yue and the others¡¯ involvement in the bandit extermination alongside the Dragon Phoenix Hall leaked during this operation.
In addition to gaining a substantial sum in banknotes and cultivating a positive reputation, Su Bin secured an official record through this endeavor.
While the gold, silver, and jewelry were distributed among the participants, all the food was transported back to the government office. Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s investment facilitated the purchase of additional food, and Su Bin made the decision to distribute it among themoners.
As a result, Su Bin garnered yet another wave of favorable public opinion.
The renown of their husband-and-wife team echoed even louder.
Notably, strategists approached Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen, seeking to join their cause. Furthermore, Su Bin forged connections with leaders in the martial arts world, renowned sects, and various heroic figures, capitalizing on the gains from the bandit nest siege.
They had essentially absorbed all the gold, silver, and treasures concealed in the mountains by both the descendants of the prior dynasty and the Public House.
Crucially, Su Bin sessfully conveyed to the Public House that he remained neutral in the Third Prince¡¯s affairs.
However, he refrained from aligning with the Public House immediately. Instead, he cultivated the impression that he was observant and vignt.
This strategy prevented the Public House from considering him a disposable asset.
He was also happy to spend their days with his wife in Shanglin Prefecture.
Having a promising start made the subsequent tasks considerably more manageable.
Upon assuming office, none of the county magistrates serving under Su Bin made an immediate visit. Each had their own reasons, citing ongoing investigations, recent health concerns, or the need for preparations due to the lengthy journey. The truth was, ever since they learned of Su Bin¡¯s intention to confront the mountain bandits, they became apprehensive about potential entanglements. The ruthless nature of the mountain bandits fueled their fear.
Once Su Bin, with arge gathering of people, sessfully eradicated the bandit threat, the emperor, recognizing his achievement, dispatched an imperial envoy for a high-profilemendation. It was only then that the county magistrates paid their respects to Su Bin, presenting him with substantial gifts. Even the governor, holding a higher official position, personally came to extend congrattions.
Su Bin, understanding the predicament of the county magistrates, did not press them too hard. He grasped the weight of their fears, considering the bandits¡¯ ruthless tendencies.
However, despite the challenges faced by the county magistrates, the necessary responsibilities had to be delegated.
The county magistrates assured Su Bin that they would not disappoint Governor Su.
After seeing off the county magistrates, Su Bin initiated the process of gradually stabilizing Shanglin Prefecture.
The government office buzzed with activity as bailiffs were deployed, and city guards were recruited. Notices were posted, detailing a series of measures aimed at benefiting the popce. The severity of punishment forwbreakers was emphasized.
Su Bin found himself immersed in daily interrogations, maintaining a hectic schedule as he worked to set Shanglin Prefecture on a positive trajectory.
None of the bailiffs remained idle, and their contentment was palpable since Su Bin generouslypensated them from his own resources.
As Shanglin Prefecture regained its footing, those who had relocated previously returned.
Within half a year, Shanglin Prefecture experienced a gradual upswing in prosperity.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s business flourished as well.
Nearly ten specialty shops emerged, dedicated to selling seasonings and therapeutic food packets.
The health center faced high demand, requiring guests to make reservations due to overcrowding.
Simultaneously, the training center gained immense poprity.
Not only did some women aspire to venture into business traditionally dominated by men, but also young women eagerly enrolled.
After all, mastering the art of cooking was viewed as a way to secure their husband¡¯s affection..
Chapter 588 - 588: Leaving Just Like That
Chapter 588 - 588: Leaving Just Like That
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
As the year neared its end, Qin Zhenzhen stood on the brink of giving birth.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t shake off his concerns. In ancient times, medical advancements were limited, and the process of childbirth was akin to navigating the gates of hell. Despite Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s reassurances, asserting her expertise as a doctor and hermitment to ensuring her safety, Su Bin remained anxious.
He turned to the elderly woman attending to Qin Zhenzhen and said, ¡°If
Madam shows any signs of going intobor, inform me immediately.¡±
His desire was to remain by his wife¡¯s side throughout the process.
The midwife exined, ¡°While we can estimate the due date, it¡¯s not an exact science. Some deliveries happen one to ten days early, while others are dyed by the same margin.¡±
Therefore, in the ten days leading up to the expected delivery date, Su Bin felt on edge every day.
Contrarily, Qin Zhenzhen remained unfazed. Being a doctor herself, she meticulously managed her nutrition during pregnancy to ensure the baby¡¯s health. The fetal position was normal, making a straightforward delivery likely. Additionally, she had ess to spirit water to alleviate the pain, making the birthing processparatively more manageable.
Despite this, Qin Zhenzhen did not object to Su Bin¡¯s insistence on being present during her delivery. However, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder if Su Bin might consider expanding their family further, having witnessed how smoothly she navigated childbirth.
This seemed like an easy task. When the time arrived, Qin Zhenzhen nned to feign cries of pain.
Imitating the agonizing screams of TV childbirth scenes wasn¡¯t a daunting challenge for her.
Amused by the thought, Qin Zhenzhen felt a smile tugging at her lips.
Su Bin inquired, ¡°Wife, what¡¯s bringing you such joy?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen countered, ¡°I am on the verge of bing a mother. Isn¡¯t that cause for celebration?¡±
Su Bin embraced her tenderly. ¡°I¡¯m happy too.¡±
Indeed, he was happy, but beneath the surface, worry lingered.
Yet, he refrained from voicing his concerns. His priority was shielding his wife from any burdens or apprehensions.
But Qin Zhenzhen, perceptive as ever, didn¡¯t let his facade go unnoticed. She maintained a gentle smile and asked, ¡°I wonder if our child will arrive earlier orter?¡±
She had already deduced the likely birth date before the auction, predicting it to be around the end of the first month, just past the 15th Lantern Festival.
Su Bin gazed at her affectionately. ¡°I hope our little one will be punctual and not keep us waiting.¡±
In this way, they could adorn the courtyard withnterns and engage inntern riddles together.
His wife¡¯s riddles were unique, often requiring his thoughtful contemtion despite his sharp intellect. Conversely, Su Bin¡¯s riddles weren¡¯t simple either, asionally leaving his astute wife stumped.
This year, as in the past, they would engage in a friendlypetition. They would determine who could outwit the other with clever riddles.
However, when the moment arrived, Su Bin intended to devise simpler riddles. It wouldn¡¯t be apparent that he was intentionally making it easy for his wife to im victory.
If, by chance, the child arrived before the Lantern Festival, Su Bin would ept it. During that time, his wife would be in confinement, unable to leave her room. He would join her, spending the Lantern Festival within the confines of their room.
¡°By the way, wife, I just received a letter from my fourth brother and the others. They mentioned nning to join us to celebrate the new year.¡±
¡°My fourth, fifth, and third brothers.¡±
¡°While my second brother and your fourth brother are nearby, they are bound by military rules, preventing them from taking leave to visit family. Otherwise, we¡¯d have even morepany.¡±
Initially, their eldest sister and brother-inw expressed a desire to join the celebration, but considering the pregnancy of their eldest sister and the tender age of their child, Su Bin convinced them to reconsider the long journey.
Given that Shanglin Prefecture had recently found its footing, there would be ample opportunities for reunions in the future.
Qin Zhenzhen, wearing a smile, remarked, ¡°Traveling long distances with children can be a bit challenging. Even my eldest brother and second brother contemteding but eventually abandoned the idea.¡±
¡°Only Third Brother, who remains unmarried, can easily make the journey..¡±
Chapter 589 - 589: Drinking
Chapter 589 - 589: Drinking
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin¡¯s fourth and fifth brothers, along with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s third brother, Qin Sanlong, arrived in Shanglin Prefecture three days before the new year.
The journey from Meijiang Prefecture City to Shanglin was rtively short, taking a day and a half by carriage. However, the winter weather was harsh, with bone-chilling cold winds. Each person had brought severalrge bags filled with thick clothes and cotton garments, highlighting the inconvenience of traveling, especially for those with children.
Su Qing and Su Cheng were ecstatic about the impending arrival of their nephew. They affectionately addressed Qin Zhenzhen as Third Sister-inw.
Su Qing had blossomed into a young man, his androgynous features attracting countless admirers. Both he and Qin Sanlong had be valuable aides to Qin
Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s business operated as a joint venture between the Su and Qin families, adopting a modern business style.
Su Qing represented the Su family¡¯s leadership, while Qin Sanlong represented the Qin family.
Aside from family shares, each member of Su Qinz¡¯s family held a few shares, with Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen being the major shareholders.
Originally, Qin Zhenzhen intended to have an equal share of the business with Su Bin, but he insisted otherwise. Su Bin dered, ¡°Wife, I¡¯m not well-versed in business matters. I need you to make the decisions, and you¡¯ve put in more effort than I have.
¡°Therefore, I should allocate more shares to you. It¡¯s only fair. You¡¯re the big boss, and I¡¯m the second boss.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled at Su Bin¡¯s words. This man exhibited a remarkable ability to embrace new concepts and demonstrated a profound understanding.
He not only endorsed her management approach but also dered that she could handle all the finances at home without having to share with him. Initially, Qin Zhenzhen was certain she wouldn¡¯t agree. At first, she even contemted divorce.
However, once the new business model took effect, Qin Zhenzhen realized there was no need for a change.
Among the four brothers, Qin Sanlong appeared the most refined and disyed the most business acumen, thanks to the tireless guidance of Su Qing.
Su Qing, having received an education and possessing literacy skills, handled ounts effortlessly. Moreover, having spent time in an opera troupe, he had prior experience dealing with businessmen, showcasing unique talents. Although ustomed to performing, Su Qing was not inherently cunning. In business, he insisted on operating with honesty and integrity.
Under Su Qing¡¯s influence, Qin Sanlong not only learned ounting but also honed his people skills in the business world.
Their roles sometimes yed in harmony, and at times, they yed the opposite roles. When faced with a challenging business partner, one would adopt the role of the good cop, and the other the bad cop, and their coboration proved effective.
Observing Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s sizable belly, Qin Sanlong couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of joy and concern. His little sister was still so young, yet she was on the brink of giving birth¡ªan experience likened to traversing the gates of hell. He wondered about Su Bin¡¯s haste in having a child and questioned whether he couldn¡¯t have waited a year or two.
Recalling Su Bin¡¯s initial disinterest in his sister, leaving her to endure months of vige ridicule, Qin Sanlong harbored unresolved grievances. The thought spurred a strange look directed at Su Bin, considering it an opportunity to teach him a lesson.
Despite these sentiments, Qin Sanlong refrained from criticizing Su Bin directly. His envisioned lesson did not involve physical confrontation.
The perfect opportunity had arrived. Throughout the New Year¡¯s Eve dinner, Qin Sanlong persistently urged Su Bin to drink, taking advantage of his role as the brother-inw.
In the realm of drinking, how could a schr like Su Bin possibly match Qin Sanlong?
Back when Qin Sanlong worked as a butcher, he had cultivated a robust tolerance for alcohol.
Despite Su Bin¡¯s reluctance, he found it awkward to decline in the face of Qin Sanlong¡¯s insistence. Consequently, he could do nothing but sip from his cup repeatedly..
Chapter 590 - 590: Drunk
Chapter 590 - 590: Drunk
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Initially, Su Bin found Qin Sanlong¡¯s behavior peculiar, sensing an underlying animosity. However, he couldn¡¯t recall any specific incident where he might have offended Qin Sanlong. If there were objections, it could only be linked back to when Qin Zhenzhen first married him.
As their rtionship improved over time, the entire Qin family, except for Qin
Sanlong, celebrated the newfound harmony. But as Su Bin indulged in a few sses of wine, he grasped Qin Sanlong¡¯s unspoken message ¨C his brother-inw held him responsible for his wife¡¯s swift pregnancy.
Indeed, Su Bin was culpable. If he hadn¡¯t insisted on Qin Zhenzhen faking her pregnancy, she might not have independently decided to discontinue contraception.
Silently gazing at Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s distended belly, Su Binprehended the cause of Qin Sanlong¡¯s reproach. Without waiting for further persuasion, he lifted his wine ss and spoke to Qin Sanlong, ¡°I recognize my shorings and the suffering I¡¯ve caused my wife. I¡¯m willing to punish myself with three cups!¡±
It was at this moment that Qin Zhenzhen realized the true issue at hand. She understood that her Third Brother pitied her and devised this drinking challenge to potentially inebriate Su Bin. Touched by Su Bin¡¯s willingness to ept the self-imposed penalty, she couldn¡¯t help but find the situation rather amusing. Why were Third Brother and Su Bin being so childishly dramatic? Having children was a natural aspect of life, and in this world, she was already of an age where childbirth was expected. Such theatrics seemed unnecessary. While Qin Zhenzhen refrained from openly intervening, she recognized the need to maintain harmony. Since everyone else was content, she decided to let the matter rest.
Su Bin was indeed intoxicated, and Qin Sanlong found himself in a simr state.
Qin Sanlong had miscalcted Su Bin¡¯s alcohol tolerance, surprised that Su Bin almost endured until the end. Unaware that Su Bin¡¯s resilience stemmed from regr consumption of spirit water, enhancing his physical constitution and alcohol tolerance, he nheless had a slightly lower tolerancepared to Qin Sanlong.
Despite this, Qin Sanlong was content. He achieved his goal of getting Su Bin drunk and was pleased that Su Bin responded with a self-imposed punishment instead of resentment. It affirmed Qin Sanlong¡¯s belief in Su Bin¡¯s genuine affection for his sister, rivaling the love of their four brothers.
As Su Bin began to show signs of intoxication, Qin Sanlong decided it was time for him to rest.
¡°Third¡ Third Brother¡ Can¡¯t handle¡ need to rest¡¡±
Su Bin¡¯s speech was slurred, a clear sign of inebriation.
Noticing Su Bin¡¯s state, Qin Sanlong instructed others to assist him to a separate room. Concerned that Su Bin might behave recklessly in his inebriated state, Qin Sanlong preferred to keep him away from his sister, who was about to give birth. It was also impractical for her to tend to her drunken husband at this crucial time.
However, Su Bin resisted the idea. Unwilling to sleep in another room, he insisted his mind was clear, and he had never lost control due to alcohol.
In an attempt to convince Su Bin to move to another room, Qin Sanlong emphasized that it was in his best interest. He grabbed Su Bin¡¯s clothes and urged him to relocate. Su Bin, however, remained adamant, expressing difort and a desire to avoid vomiting, aware that Qin Zhenzhen possessed an immortal grass that could alleviate his drunkenness quickly.
As the discussion unfolded, Qin Sanlong grew more concerned, emphasizing the benefits of sleeping in a different room. Su Bin initially resisted, iming he couldn¡¯t sleep elsewhere. Qin Zhenzhen intervened, assuring Qin Sanlong that she had already arranged for hangover soup to be prepared. Eventually, Qin Sanlong relented, though he muttered about the futility of drinking hangover soup after consuming alcohol..
Chapter 591 - 591: Lantern Festival
Chapter 591 - 591: Lantern Festival
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen enhanced the hangover soup by adding spirit water.
After serving a bowl to Su Bin, she personally escorted the old woman to Qin Sanlong¡¯s room.
Observing her efforts, Qin Sanlong expressed concern, questioning why she had taken the trouble toe personally.
With a smile, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°I was concerned you might not drink it, so I came to supervise you.¡±
She further exined the potential harm excessive drinking could inflict on the body, emphasizing the importance of consuming the hangover soup to avoid difort throughout the night. Qin Zhenzhen shared her modern understanding that drinking taxed the liver the most, requiring it to work overtime to break down alcohol. The long-term consequences could lead to liver lesions.
Aware that ancient people mightck this knowledge, viewing those who could hold their liquor well as heroes, Qin Sanlong obediently finished the wine soup. He admitted with embarrassment, ¡°Little Sister, I won¡¯t do it again.¡±
Understanding his reference to persuading Su Bin to drink, Qin Zhenzhen reassured him with a smile.
¡°I understand what you mean. You are worried that I might face difficulties with Su Bin.¡±
¡°Third Brother, there¡¯s no need to worry. Su Bin is actually very good to me. I will take good care of myself, ensuring Father, Mother, and Brothers don¡¯t have to worry.¡±
Su Qing and Qin Sanlong departed from Shanglin Prefecture on the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, leaving Su Cheng behind.
Having pursued studies diligently in Meijiang Prefecture City, Su Cheng had now attained a role as a small manager. While hisprehension was slightly inferior to Su Ning¡¯s, his focus was on management, distinct from Su Ning¡¯s technological pursuits.
With the siblings spending their days together, the Lantern Festival approached.
On this day, Su Bin granted all the bailiffs a day off, including himself, with only two guards remaining for emergencies.
As Shanglin Prefecture continued on its positive trajectory, the number ofwbreakers diminished.
In the early morning, Su Bin woke up and directed the servants to hangnterns in the backyard, each marked with riddles and corresponding prizes for the night¡¯s festivities.
Some riddles were from Su Bin, others from Qin Zhenzhen, and eachntern carried the promise that the correct guesser would im both thentern and its associated prize.
Su Bin reminded Su Ning specifically, ¡°You can¡¯t ask your third sister-inw for the answer.¡¯
Su Ning yfully agreed, ¡°Fine, I won¡¯t ask. Don¡¯t underestimate me. I¡¯ll win the prize fair and square!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen, with her big belly, admired thenterns. Su Bin remained by her side, relishing the tranquility of their life away from the capital. If given the choice, he would prefer not to return.
Yet, Su Bin understood that even if he wished to avoid returning to the capital, its affairs would inevitably entangle him. Having already be a target of the Public House, he faced the risk of either being utilized or annihted by them.
Adding to his concerns, the Crown Prince harbored inappropriate intentions toward his wife.
Recent reports from the capital indicated that the emperor, unable to tolerate the Public House any longer, openly shed with them in the court due to disagreements. Eventually, he deployed the imperial authority to assert dominance over the Public House.
However, Su Bin was acutely aware that despite the appearance of victory for the emperor, he was actually steering closer to a perilous path. If he were in the emperor¡¯s position, he would either bear the grievances silently or decisively crush the Public House to address the issue.
Unfortunately, the emperor paid no heed to the counsel of those around him..
Chapter 592 - 592: Destined
Chapter 592 - 592: Destined
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The General Manor disregarded the counsel of the Third Prince.
They continued to amass evidence of the Public House¡¯s transgressions and submitted them to the emperor.
Recently, the General Manor unearthed signs of the Public House¡¯s presence in another training facility.
Should the General Manor unveil this secret and present the proof to the emperor, the emperor¡¯s wrath would be inevitable.
The act of nurturing and training soldiers outside the established norms was viewed as an act of rebellion.
This was deemed intolerable by the emperor himself.
The consequences of the emperor¡¯s impulsive actions could tip the bnce in the power struggle between the royal family and the Public House.
However, the repercussions would extend beyond the capital and permeate the entire country, resulting in a widespread bloodbath.
Initially, Su Bin had strategized with Lin Yue, agreeing that revealing the Public House¡¯s unauthorized military activities to the emperor or the General Manor was not prudent at this stage.
The timing was not right, and the Third Princecked sufficient support.
Relying solely on the Emperor and the General Manor was insufficient to bring down the Public House.
If the training location was exposed, the General Manor could dispatch hero posts, rallying heroes to create disturbances akin to besieging bandits. This would not only allow them to seize resources but also force the Public House to relocate out of fear.
However, the obstinate General Manor disrupted these carefullyid ns.
Qin Zhenzhen sensed that Su Bin harbored concerns.
¡°Are you anxious about potential threats to the pce?¡± Su Bin, with a reassuring smile, chose not to involve his wife in theplexities of the unfolding situation.
¡°That¡¯s not true.¡±
However, Qin Zhenzhen countered, ¡°Don¡¯t deceive me. I¡¯m well aware of the crisis unfolding in the capital.¡±
¡°In reality, I¡¯m not as delicate as you presume. You needn¡¯t concern yourself with how the court¡¯s affairs might affect my mood.¡±
¡°Tell me, what recent developments have you learned about?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen understood that unsettling news must have arrived from the capital, beyond Su Bin and his associates¡¯ control. Hence, his expression reflected the gravity of the situation.
Su Bin, who had deliberately sidestepped discussing capital matters with her recently, gently embraced Qin Zhenzhen and began recounting recent events.
¡°I¡¯m somewhat apprehensive that the emperor might fall into the Public House¡¯s scheming.¡±
Within the Public House were numerous strategists skilled in machinations. If they orchestrated a trap for the emperor, convincing him to consider abolishing the Crown Prince, it could lead to the Emperor¡¯s downfall.
This was because the Empress Dowager would likely ally with the Public House and support the abolition of the emperor.
Su Bin expressed his hope that his concerns wouldn¡¯t materialize.
Inwardly, Qin Zhenzhen felt a surge of shock.
At this rate, the emperor was ying with fire.
However, considering the emperor¡¯s character from the historical narrative, longevity wasn¡¯t in his favor. Despite Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s altered presence in his life, it seemed his fundamental personality remained unchanged. Was he inevitably destined for a short life?
¡°Wife, what thoughts upy your mind?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen regained herposure and offered a reassuring smile. ¡°There¡¯s no need to overly fret about events unfolding in the pce.¡±
¡°If you can¡¯t alter it, then it¡¯s best to embrace the reality.¡±
¡°Many things are fated.¡±
¡°As for us, we still possess the capability to safeguard ourselves.¡±
Referring to the book¡¯s storyline, the Public House¡¯s dominance over the world seemed imusible. Even if they seized the dragon throne, it appeared their rule would be short-lived.
The Third Prince, destined by birth, held the key to ultimate control over the world, irrespective of their own actions.
¡°Indeed,¡± Su Bin concurred with his wife¡¯s perspective.
Yet, his concerns extended beyond hers. He couldn¡¯t forget the way the detestable Crown Prince gazed at his wife¡ªa look any man could decipher. Su Bin worried that the Public House might overthrow the emperor, aiding the Crown Prince in ascending the throne. Even if the Crown Prince harbored no intentions towards his wife, he might still consider Su Bin a thorn in his side.
This potential scenario could prove more troublesome than the current circumstances..
Chapter 593 - 593: Childbirth (1)
Chapter 593 - 593: Childbirth (1)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Wife, it¡¯s gettingte. Let¡¯s rest,¡± Su Bin gently suggested, guiding Qin Zhenzhen back to her room.
Suddenly, Qin Zhenzhen winced, rubbing her stomach. ¡°Aiya¡¡±
rmed, Su Bin asked, ¡°Wife, what¡¯s happening?¡±
Enduring the pain, Qin Zhenzhen replied, ¡°I believe it¡¯s time for the birth¡
In reality, she had carefully calcted the timeline leading up to the auction. The expected timeframe was either today or tomorrow. A few days prior to delivery, the shape of the pregnancy would shift, with the fetus descending closer to the pelvis.
¡°A midwife! Get a midwife!¡± Su Bin urgently called out, holding onto Qin Zhenzhen without letting go.
¡°Yes!¡± The secret guard promptly responded.
Trying to reassure her husband, Qin Zhenzhen said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. I¡¯ve already arranged for the midwife to be on standby at home. She might not have gone to sleep yet.¡±
¡°Besides, the birthing process isn¡¯t instantaneous. It¡¯s just starting to hurt¡ Aiya¡ It hurts!¡±
Qin Zhenzhen frowned, realizing that the spirit water she believed could alleviate pain was no longer effective during childbirth.
The pain ofbor was a unique connection between mother and child¡ªa necessary part of the maternal journey.
There were no shortcuts.
She understood.
She embraced it.
¡°My dear child, Mother is willing to endure this pain for the joy of bringing you into the world,¡± Su Bin expressed, swiftly assisting Qin Zhenzhen to the bed and easing her down.
¡°Wife, are you still in pain?¡±
¡°It hurts¡ It¡¯s justbor pains,ing and going,¡± Qin Zhenzhen replied, her forehead glistening with sweat. ¡°The further along, the more intense and frequent the pain¡¡±
Su Bin¡¯s heart ached as he wiped her forehead with a handkerchief. ¡°Wife, don¡¯t talk. The midwife will be here soon.
Just as he finished speaking, the midwife arrived. Su Ning and Su Cheng, alerted by Su Bin¡¯s earlier call, hurried over behind the midwife.
¡°Third Sister-inw! Third Sister-inw! Are you giving birth?¡± Su Ning attempted to enter the room, but Grandma Wang halted her.
¡°Miss Su, it¡¯s not suitable for you to go in. ording to etiquette, unmarried girls shouldn¡¯t enter, and too many people will be a hindrance.¡±
Understanding, Su Ning nodded and led her younger brother to wait outside the door.
Inside, Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s pain intensified, her forehead bing more dewy with sweat.
She tried to endure but couldn¡¯t help letting out a cry.
¡°Ouch¡¡±
Su Bin rolled up his sleeves, offering his arm to Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s mouth. ¡°Wife, if it¡¯s too much, bite my arm!¡±
Almost amused by his suggestion, Qin Zhenzhen pushed his hand away.
¡°Are you a masochist? If I really bite you¡ won¡¯t you die of pain?¡± Qin Zhenzhen questioned, half in amusement.
Su Bin replied firmly, ¡°Hurry up and bite it. I want to share in your pain. Otherwise, my heart will ache even more!¡±
¡°Quickly remove your hand. You need strength to bite people¡¡¯
Embarrassed, Qin Zhenzhen wished to shield her face. With a midwife and an older woman in the room, Su Bin didn¡¯t seem concerned about potentialughter.
The experienced midwife, ustomed to witnessing husbands doting on their wives, found Su Bin¡¯s approach unusual. Biting one¡¯s arm was a rarity.
Sensing the imminent moment, the midwife called out, ¡°Prepare more hot water. We¡¯ll need itter.¡±
With that, she insisted Su Bin leave. ¡°Governor Su, please step outside.¡± Su Bin resisted, stating, ¡°I¡¯m not leaving. I¡¯ll stay here with my wife.¡±
The midwife offered a gentle reminder, ¡°ording to the rules, men aren¡¯t permitted in the room with a pregnant woman because¡ I won¡¯t go into details. You understand the reasons. I¡¯m just trying to be considerate..¡±
Chapter 594 - 594: Childbirth (2)
Chapter 594 - 594: Childbirth (2)
Trantor: Henvee Trantions Editor: Henvee Trantions
In ancient times, medical skills were rudimentary, and the process of childbirth was often likened to traversing the gates of hell. Many women lost their lives during childbirth, fueling rumors among the people that an ominous aura pervaded the birthing chamber. Some believed in the presence of malevolent spirits or little ghosts within, plotting harm to the mother.
Due to these superstitions, ordinary people were prohibited from entering the room where a woman gave birth, fearing contamination by the perceived evil energy. The midwife, astute to these beliefs, wisely refrained from uttering such notions during this critical time.
Su Bin, aware of these rumors, staunchly refused to entertain such ideas. Even if there were spectral threats, he insisted on standing by his wife¡¯s side to protect her.
¡°Governor Su¡¡±
The midwife sought to persuade Su Bin, but he cut her off. ¡°Don¡¯t say anything else!¡±
¡°Mrs. su¡¡±
The midwife turned to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°Let him stay.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen didn¡¯t object to Su Bin remaining by her side. His presence brought an inexplicable sense of reassurance.
Resigned, the midwife had no choice but to let them be.
As the moment of childbirth approached, the midwife encouraged, ¡°Mrs. Su, push harder!¡±
Su Bin, holding Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s hand, provided words of encouragement.
¡°Wife, you¡¯re doing great!¡±
A robust cry from the newborn pierced the night.
Qin Zhenzhen felt a wave of relief. Their child, born to her and Su Bin, had arrived, and from the robust cries, she sensed the baby¡¯s health.
The delighted midwife eximed, ¡°Congrattions, Governor Su. Mrs. Su, it¡¯s a chubby little boy!¡±
Su Ning, who had anxiously waited outside for hours, leaped with joy.
¡°Fifth Brother, Fifth Brother! Did you hear that? We¡¯ve got a new nephew!¡±
Su Cheng shared in the happiness. ¡°The moment I heard that first cry, I knew it was a nephew!¡±
Eager to meet their new family member, the siblings tried to enter but were halted by Grandma Wang.
¡°If you go in now, you¡¯ll cause a disturbance.¡±
The midwife carefully swathed the newborn in a clean cotton cloth and presented him to Su Bin.
After a few cries, the baby ceased and gazed at his parents.
Su Bin tenderly held the child and positioned him for Qin Zhenzhen to see.
Qin Zhenzhen smiled, ¡°What a beautiful baby, he takes after you.¡±
Unable to contain his joy, Su Bin spoke to the newborn, ¡°Kid, remember today as the day your mother endured for you. Henceforth, be filial to her every year.¡±
Amused, Qin Zhenzhen pinched Su Bin¡¯s waist. ¡°Why are you so loud? Don¡¯t scare him.¡±
Su Bin grinned, ¡°Does he look frightened? This kid looks calm. You can tell he¡¯s mischievous at first nce.¡±
¡°Can you really tell he¡¯s mischievous just by looking at him? Do you think he inherits my personality?¡±
The previous owner of Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s body had been assertive from a young age, often reducing neighborhood children to tears with her domineering ways, thanks to the doting of her four older brothers.
Su Bin rified quickly, ¡°Wife, you¡¯ve misunderstood! If he takes after your personality, I¡¯ll be delighted.¡±
¡°Let¡¯s hope he doesn¡¯t inherit his father¡¯s personality. It¡¯s not a good one.¡±
He had been cold and aloof since his youth.
Later on, due to an unexpected family crisis, her life took a challenging turn. Enduring three days without food further intensified her already cold and extreme personality.
In truth, much of his life was shrouded in darkness.
Fortuitously, he encountered his wife.
Her optimistic nature proved contagious, acting as a beacon of light in his shadowed existence.
It was his wife who rescued him from the depths of despair, infusing his bleak side with the warmth of sunlight.
In any case, his wife was the salvation he found in this lifetime.
For the remainder of his days, he would hold deep gratitude toward his wife
and treat her with the utmost care.
¡°Wife, thank you!¡±
Chapter 595 - 595: Childbirth (3)
Chapter 595 - 595: Childbirth (3)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Giving birth proved to be an exhausting endeavor.
Qin Zhenzhen managed to drift off to sleep only around midnight. Following her initial feeding session with the baby, she slept until noon.
Upon waking, the cries of the baby reached her ears.
Su Bin, cradling the infant, paced the room in an attempt to soothe him.
Observing the baby¡¯s distress, Qin Zhenzhen remarked, ¡°He¡¯s hungry. Bring him over quickly.¡±
Once the child had his fill, the crying ceased.
Taking advantage of the moment, Su Bin brought up the topic again. ¡°Wife, let¡¯s consider hiring a nanny for him. Look at how he eagerly devours his food. I¡¯m concerned about the strain on you..
In affluent circles, it was customary for wealthy women not to personally attend to their children¡¯s needs but rather employ a nanny. This practice primarily stemmed from worries about maintaining their figures, securing their status in their husband¡¯s affections, and avoiding the inconvenience and time-consuming demands of childcare.
Pregnancy had already disrupted the normalcy of marital rtions for a while, and with the birth of the child, the prospect of breastfeeding furtherplicated matters. Rich men often had concubines, and for reasons of safety and self-interest, they tended to avoid engaging with the pregnant wife during this time.
To Qin Zhenzhen, such considerations were irrelevant. She was determined to provide her child with unwavering maternal love and was not inclined to delegate this responsibility.
Su Bin, on the other hand, wasn¡¯t concerned about Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s figure. He simply found himself slightly displeased witnessing his son voraciously consuming his meals.
He also worried about his wife getting tired due to this.
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and interrupted Su Bin. ¡°He¡¯s hungry. He must be anxious. Next time, if he cries from hunger, wake me up.¡±
Su Bin nodded, his confusion evident. ¡°If he¡¯s hungry, why can¡¯t we give him something else to eat?¡±
This was a point Qin Zhenzhen had emphasized to him.
Qin Zhenzhen patiently exined once more, ¡°When a baby is born, it¡¯s best to breastfeed. Initially, they should only consume milk and not other supplementary foods¡¡±
Modern parenting guidelines also discouraged the introduction of salty foods until the child reached the age of one. Bridging the gap between ancient practices and contemporary knowledge proved challenging.
Qin Zhenzhen, relying on her medical background, continued to educate Su Bin.
Fortunately, Su Bin was receptive. ¡°Leave the baby to me. I¡¯ll ensure he grows up healthy.¡±
Su Bin expressed his gratitude sincerely, ¡°Thank you, wife!¡±
¡°But I can¡¯t remain passive.¡±
¡°In the future, guide me on how you want our son raised and what precautions to take. I¡¯ll remember and follow through on everything.¡±
He concurred with Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s perspective. Since she had chosen to have a child, responsibility for their upbringing shouldn¡¯t be entirely delegated to others.
Pleased with Su Bin¡¯smitment, Qin Zhenzhen nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s work together. We can handle the challenges with dedication.¡±
¡°By the way, have you thought of a name?¡±
Su Bin remainedposed. ¡°There¡¯s no rush. I need to ponder it. Wife, let¡¯s give him a nickname for now.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen suggested, ¡°Since he was born during the Lantern Festival, how about calling him Yuan Bao?¡±
Su Bin agreed. ¡°Excellent choice!¡± The couple shared a smile, looking at each other with warmth.
The couple, having just weed their newborn, found the world bathed in a newfound beauty.
Every cry, everyugh, and every action of their son brought them joy and a profound sense of connection.
However, their bliss was abruptly disrupted when, in less than two days, Su Bin received an urgent secret report from the capital.
The Emperor had unexpectedly passed away.
The very concern that had weighed on Su Bin¡¯s mind had materialized..
Chapter 596 - 596: Heartache
Chapter 596 - 596: Heartache
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The pce hosted the Lantern Festival banquet, attended by all the emperor¡¯s concubines, princes, princesses, the Empress Dowager, and the imperial concubine left behind by thete emperor. It was an exclusive event for the royal family, with no foreign ministers in attendance.
During the banquet, a newly favored concubine graced the asion with a dance.
That same night, the emperor spent time with her, and tragically, he perished during their encounter.
The imperial physicians diagnosed the cause of death as an ¡°immediate stroke.¡± The concubine who had been with him took the me and was summarily executed.
Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen shared an understanding that the emperor¡¯s demise wasn¡¯t a result of a sudden stroke, but rather a conspiracy orchestrated by the Public House.
The intricacies of the plot were unknown to those from the Dragon Phoenix Hall, but the oue was paramount¡ª the emperor was dead, and the crown prince was next in line.
While the Crown Prince remained under the influence of the Public House, each emperor had personal preferences and principles. The deceased emperor, for instance, favored gentle and immacte beauties, desiring freshness. Despite having a harem of 3,000 beauties, few could frequently share his bed unless some maniptive means, like the Jiang family¡¯s earlier use of a beauty and medicine, were employed.
The Public House exploited his preferences, inundating him with beauties every six months, ensnaring the emperor in their web of influence.
Once His Highness the Crown Prince assumed the throne, the Public House intended to employ a simr strategy, fulfilling his desires in exchange forpliance.
What if that contemptible Crown Prince still harbored resentment? The unknown consequences loomed, leaving them uneasy about what might transpire.
Adding to the uncertainty, the situation for the Third Prince was precarious. With the emperor¡¯s passing, the Third Prince would inevitably return to the capital for mourning. Su Bin pondered whether the Third Prince could navigate the perils posed by both the Public House and the vengeful Crown Prince.
The potential loss of the Third Prince¡¯s life would spell disaster for the country and its people.
If the Public House sought to seize the throne, internal strife would likely ensue.
Qin Zhenzhen reassured Su Bin, gently patting the back of his hand. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. The Third Prince is not foolish, nor is he weak. It won¡¯t be easy to eliminate him.¡±
In the book¡¯s plot, the Third Prince was the male lead, possessing his own protective aura that safeguarded him from an untimely demise. However, challenges were sure to arise.
Su Bin stared at Qin Zhenzhen, noting her calm demeanor. His wife seemed remarkablyposed.
A few dayster, the news of the emperor¡¯s death spread, leading to a prohibition on festive activities for three months. Su Bin¡¯s n to hold a one-month-old banquet for his son was thwarted.
Feeling a sense of disappointment, he expressed his frustration. ¡°I had intended topensate for our simple wedding with a grand celebration for our son, but now, it¡¯s disrupted by a state funeral.¡±
Su Bin harbored resentment toward the Public House and the Crown Prince, and now, the state of affairs fueled his displeasure further.
Qin Zhenzhenforted him, emphasizing, ¡°I¡¯m not someone who cares about extravagance. As long as our family is harmonious and healthy, that¡¯s true happiness.¡±
Su Bin still felt regret, to which Qin Zhenzhen suggested, ¡°How about a grander celebration for our next child?¡±
In earnest, Su Bin replied, ¡°I witnessed the difficulty you endured during childbirth. Having one child is sufficient for us.¡±
Touched by his sincerity, Qin Zhenzhen added, ¡°But one child may feel a bit lonely. ¡®ITO would De even Detter.¡±
She was against the idea of creating a fertility machine, but the notion of having a second child was still eptable to her.
The perspectives of ancient and modern individuals often differed.
In ancient times, Su Bin could genuinely express that one child was sufficient, showcasing the depth of his love for her.
Gently embracing Qin Zhenzhen, Su Bin remarked, ¡°But you¡¯ve endured so much.. My heart aches, truly aches¡¡±
Chapter 597 - 597: Ruthless
Chapter 597 - 597: Ruthless
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen yfully teased Su Bin, ¡°Don¡¯t you like children?¡±
Su Bin responded, ¡°I do!¡±
How could he not adore his own flesh and blood, the product of his wife¡¯s love? Their child bore a resemnce to him but exhibited a lively and yful personality, much like Qin Zhenzhen. Whether hungry or content, the child¡¯s every action touched his heart.
Yet, when he considered the toll of his wife¡¯s hard work, he couldn¡¯t help but feel that one child was sufficient.
Qin Zhenzhen persisted in her yful banter. ¡°You imed to be afraid of me working hard and professed your love for children. Is this just an excuse to have other women bear your offspring?¡±
Su Bin wore a serious expression. ¡°Wife, don¡¯t make such jokes in the future. They might upset me!¡±
¡°I¡¯ve made it clear before¡ªwe¡¯re a couple for life. You¡¯re the only one in my heart.¡±
Observing Su Bin¡¯s seriousness, Qin Zhenzhen suppressed herughter.
¡°Alright, alright! I understand. I won¡¯t say such things again.¡± ¡°However, I truly believe one child is too few. At least two.¡±
Su Bin¡¯s expression softened at her words.
¡°We¡¯ll decide thatter.¡±
¡°Even if we have a second child, we won¡¯t hold a one-month-old celebration.¡¯
Perplexed, Qin Zhenzhen questioned, ¡°Aren¡¯t you disappointed that we can¡¯t have a banquet this time?¡±
Su Bin exined, ¡°While regret is one thing, fairness is more crucial.¡±
¡°The first child didn¡¯t have a one-month-old celebration. Despite the unique circumstances, it¡¯s only fair for the second child not to have one either.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it better for them to perceive their parents as individuals who prioritize simplicity over extravagance?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°That makes sense. It seems your reading of those books wasn¡¯t in vain after all!¡±
Before the crown prince officially ascended the throne, he had the responsibility of guarding thete emperor for 49 days. However, a nation could not be left without a ruler even for a day. Hence, despite not yet assuming the throne, the Crown Prince was already regarded as the emperor. During his mourning period, he had to attend to governmental matters.
However, this wasrgely a facade. Many memorials had already been handled by the Public House, only brought to him for appearance¡¯s sake.
The Third Prince returned to the capital for mourning, desiring to pay respects to the previous emperor. The two brothers each upied a side of the Imperial Mausoleum. The Crown Prince had twelve guards and a retinue of twenty people serving him, while the Third Prince¡¯s side appeared sparser. He was only permitted to bring two guards and forbidden from carrying any weapons.
In such a perilous setting, the Crown Prince could easily harm the Third Prince with a mere gesture.
Despite the danger, the Third Prince remainedposed.
The Imperial Mausoleum held great solemnity, serving as the resting ce for generations of emperors. The Third Prince believed that, even if the Crown Prince were unhinged, he wouldn¡¯t dare to attack in such a sacred location.
Disturbing the ancestors in the imperial mausoleum would jeopardize the Crown Prince¡¯s reign.
Despite the apparent sacredness of the Imperial Mausoleum, the Third Prince remained vignt and refused to let his guard down.
His concerns proved justified when the Crown Prince, disying continued erratic and ruthless behavior, orchestrated an attempt on the Third Prince¡¯s life shortly after the seventh day of mourning for thete emperor.
Under the guise of false usations, the Crown Prince deceitfully imed that the Third Prince sought to assassinate him. He even went so far as to mobilize the Imperial Mausoleum¡¯s guards, turning them against the Third Prince.
Although the Third Prince¡¯s guards had already been eliminated, he relied on his formidable martial skills to evade capture within the confines of the Imperial Mausoleum.
News of this incident spread quickly, causing unrest among civil and military officials who could no longer remain passive. They promptly submitted reports on the matter, highlighting the dangerous power struggle unfolding in the royal court..
Chapter 598 - 598: How to Deal With the Aftermath
Chapter 598 - 598: How to Deal With the Aftermath
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The civil and military officials promptly submitted their reports, offering various perspectives on the unfolding crisis.
Some advised caution to the new emperor, suggesting that hastily using the Third Prince of assassination and pursuing him relentlessly might lead to discontent from the General Manor. Such actions could potentially trigger resistance from the powerful institution.
Others argued that punishing the General Manor would be detrimental to the situation. Without their defense at the northern border, barbarian incursions were inevitable, leading to widespread devastation.
While other generals could potentially guard the northern border, theirck of familiarity with the terrain and the valiant barbarians made them less effective.
Conversely, some officials chose to tter the new emperor and advocated for the pursuit of the Third Prince, advocating for aprehensive solution by eliminating what they perceived as the root of the problem¡ªthe General Manor.
The situation incited the old duke¡¯s near anger-induced demise.
It became apparent that the decision to falsely use the Third Prince of attempting to assassinate the new king was privately made by the new emperor himself. The rationale behind this decision was the belief that the Third Prince, apanied by only two guards, presented a convenient opportunity for elimination.
However, the new emperor failed to anticipate the Third Prince¡¯s ability to mobilize the Imperial Mausoleum¡¯s guards against him. Furthermore, these guards deliberately allowed the Third Prince to escape.
As news of the incident spread, despite the king¡¯s official statement that the Third Prince was targeted for attempting regicide, most people saw it as a flimsy excuse. Many officials, both civil and military, deemed the new emperor¡¯s actions as ill-considered, and sentiments echoed within the Public House mirrored these sentiments.
While a king¡¯s malleability could make him easier to control, such tant stupidity raised concerns even among those seeking influence.
The old duke, apanied by the Empress Dowager, entered the pce to confront the new emperor, delivering a stern reprimand.
The Empress Dowager¡¯s countenance darkened as she admonished, ¡°What were you thinking? Did you even consider the repercussions before taking such actions? Do you believe being an emperor grants you the liberty to act recklessly?¡±
¡°I have always emphasized that being an emperor is no easy feat. Your every move must be more calcted than that of an ordinary person!¡±
¡°Assassinating the new king is a grave matter, and yet you chose to act unterally without consulting us!¡±
¡°You are now the emperor, while the Third Prince has nothing. Are you truly afraid that he poses a threat to you? Your timidity is ring!¡±
¡°Inparison to your father, you fall short by a mere fraction. Not even a tenth of his worth!¡±
The more the Empress Dowager scolded, the more impassioned she became. However, her frustration waspounded by the fact that her own good son had been killed by her own good grandson and their family, without any prior notification.
She had once showered affection on her biological grandson, but now, contemting his rebellious actions, she felt an urge to strangle him.
Still reeling from the pain of losing her son, the new emperor¡¯s ill-advised actions further exacerbated her distress.
Feigning understanding of the gravity of the situation, the new emperor refrained from challenging the reprimands of the old duke and the Empress Dowager. He was well aware of the potential consequences; any defiance might lead to his inexplicable demise, echoing the fate of his deceased father. Such an oue could pave the way for his infant son to ascend the throne, thereby strengthening the Public House¡¯s influence.
Determined not to follow in his father¡¯s footsteps, the new emperor vowed to resist the encroaching dominance of the Public House over his family¡¯s realm.
His intent extended beyond eliminating the perceived threat posed by the Third Prince; the new emperor harbored a desire to eradicate the influence of the Public House entirely.
His deliberate orchestration of this tumultuous situation revealed a hidden agenda.
While the Empress Dowager contemted scolding the new emperor once more, the old duke intervened, counseling, ¡°Empress Dowager, please, let us maintainposure. The emperor acknowledges his mistake. Haranguing him further at this juncture serves no purpose. Let us focus on strategizing how to navigate the aftermath..¡±
Chapter 599 - 599: Rumor
Chapter 599 - 599: Rumor
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The Empress Dowager fixed a stern gaze on the aging duke, her displeasure evident.
All of this chaos was a result of his brother¡¯s actions.
He had argued that he feared thete emperor would be influenced by external forces, perpetually causing issues for the Public House. Now, witnessing the new emperor¡¯s unsettling methods of causing trouble, his predictions seemed eerily urate.
Initially, thete emperor had conveyed to her that the Public House was discontent with the current state of affairs. She had dismissed the notion that they aimed to seize the throne.
Yet, her perspective was shifting.
In this moment of realization, she halted her reprimands of the new emperor. Despite his apparent foolishness, he remained her flesh and blood¡ªa fact she couldn¡¯t overlook. She couldn¡¯t bear the thought of her own family crippling her grandson and usurping the throne.
If her family did indeed attempt to seize control and alter the dynasty, how could she face the ancestors of the Chu Family?
Having reached this conclusion, the Empress Dowager resolved to educate the new emperor on clever governance¡ªalbeit discreetly, away from the prying eyes of her brothers.
With this decision, she regained herposure and engaged in discussions with the old duke on how to handle the aftermath of the new emperor¡¯s actions.
The news had already spread like wildfire, making containment impossible.
Since the new emperor had asserted that the Third Prince plotted against him, they couldn¡¯t outright deny it, especially given the emperor¡¯s credibility.
However, implicating the Third Prince would undoubtedly infuriate the General Manor. Any strange actions from them would pose a significant challenge.
Convicting the General Manor as well was not an option, as theycked absolute confidence in facing such consequences.
After much deliberation, the agreed-upon solution was for the new emperor to make a public announcement.
He dered that due to the Third Prince¡¯s youth and ignorance, he would pardon him, refraining from further pursuit. However, a stern prohibition barred the prince from ever setting foot in the capital again. Moreover, if investigations revealed the General Manor¡¯s innocence, they would not be implicated.
Once the announcement echoed through thend, those ingratiating themselves with the new emperoruded his mercy. He had forgiven the Third Prince and refrained from using the General Manor. Praise for the emperor¡¯s magnanimity circted widely.
Upon hearing this, the General Manor¡¯s members seethed with anger, suppressing the urge to vomit blood. Yet, they had no choice but to endure. As long as the Third Prince remained alive, hope lingered. Their current weakness prevented them from resisting the Public House.
Civil and military officials biased towards the Third Prince and the General Manor privately cursed the new emperor. used of regicide and fratricide, he appeared unworthy of his position. Many believed divine retribution awaited him.
In the hearts of these officials, the Third Prince was the sagacious ruler, and their allegiance remained unwavering. The people in the capital, perceptive and unswayed, recognized the new emperor¡¯s promation as a pretext to eliminate the Third Prince while appeasing the General Manor.
They whispered in private, acknowledging the emperor¡¯s purported benevolence as a facade for hidden cruelty. However, the intricacies of royal affairs barred public discourse, relegating their discussions to ndestine exchanges.
Simultaneously, the new king ndestinely disseminated rumors. ording to these whispers, the Third Prince was innocent of the assassination attempt¡ª the Public House had orchestrated a scheme, falsely pinning the crime on him. Allegedly, an assassin dispatched by the Public House was the true culprit, with the new emperor portrayed as a reluctant participant forced into a bloodshed scenario in the Imperial Mausoleum.
Their objective was to eliminate both the Third Prince and the new emperor simultaneously. Subsequently, they nned to install the new emperor as a puppet ruler, exerting control over the young monarch.
These rumors found widespread belief among the popce, sowing seeds of doubt and discontent.
Naturally, the Public House was incensed by these allegations. Little did they suspect that the origin of these rumorsy with the new king himself.
Despite conducting thorough investigations¡ªboth overt and covert¡ªthe Public House failed to uncover the truth. Those apprehended in connection to the rumors consistently confessed that they were paid by the General Manor to spread falsehoods about the Public House, taking considerable risks for mary gain..
Chapter 600 - 600: Give Up
Chapter 600 - 600: Give Up
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
In the end, the Public House opted to deploy agents to quell these rumors. However, at this critical juncture, the Public House hesitated to directly confront the General Manor and expose them. The fear stemmed from the potential repercussions, as they were wary that provoking the General Manor might lead to drastic actions.
Given their currentck of absolute power, it seemed unwise to engage in a direct confrontation with the General Manor.
On the other side, the General Manor also found the situation perplexing. The individuals spreading the rumors left them questioning allegiances. Could they be descendants of the previous dynasty? Logically, this seemed unlikely.
The nest of the previous dynasty¡¯s descendants had been unintentionally destroyed by Su Bin. While their leader had managed to escape, he was in a precarious situation, making it improbable for him to dispatch someone to the capital to spread rumors.
Yet, the rumors weren¡¯t entirely baseless¡ªthey contained elements of truth. The Public House did harbor ambitions of creating a pliant emperor, butcking sufficient strength, they were hesitant to provoke the General Manor.
Amidst this confusion, the General Manor had no time to conduct a thorough investigation into the rumors.
Following the Third Prince¡¯s escape from the pce, he made no contact with the General Manor, and the agents sent by them failed to locate him. The General Manor pondered on the Third Prince¡¯s well-being, knowing only that he remained with his master somewhere in the capital.
Despite the new emperor¡¯s public promation of pardoning the Third Prince, covertly, he mobilized numerous operatives to search for him, with the clear intent of elimination upon discovery.
The Third Prince, having eluded the Imperial Mausoleum, still lingered in the capital for one reason¡ªhis injuries were too severe for him to venture any further.
Yet, the lingering question remained: why hadn¡¯t the Third Prince and his master disclosed their hiding ce to the General Manor?
The old general, sleep eluding him for over half a month, sighed deeply. ¡°Perhaps we made a grave mistake.¡±
Their errory in overestimating thete emperor¡¯s prowess, assuming he could effectively eliminate the Public House. Unfortunately, the n backfired, resulting in thete emperor¡¯s demise without achieving the intended goal.
In the past, the General Manor and thete emperor maintained an amicable rtionship. The Third Prince¡¯s mother, a favorite concubine of thete emperor, facilitatedmunication. However, the dynamics had shifted dramatically with the advent of the new emperor.
Now, the new emperor and the General Manor were at odds. No pretenses were made; upon ascending to power, the new emperor immediately charged the Third Prince with regicide¡ªa direct confrontation with the General Manor.
Reflecting on the situation, the old generalmented, ¡°Had I known this would happen, I should have heeded the Third Prince¡¯s warnings.¡±
The Third Prince had forewarned, ¡°Don¡¯t expect the Emperor to advocate for us! Don¡¯t expect the Emperor to disce the Crown Prince!¡±
Had thete emperor possessed the autonomy to decide, the Third Prince¡¯s mother wouldn¡¯t have met an untimely demise in the pce. The Third Prince wouldn¡¯t have been subjected to poison at a tender age,pelled to leave the capital.
He wouldn¡¯t now be facing allegations of regicide with a death sentence hanging over him, a situation thete emperor couldn¡¯t elucidate.
When Meijiang Prefecture City fell victim to assassination, the Third Prince had relinquished hope in thete emperor. He understood survival and revenge rested solely on his shoulders.
He chose to conceal his strength, biding his time for a strategic resurgence. The General Manor, however, disagreed with the Third Prince¡¯s approach. They maintained that leveraging the emperor¡¯s authority to overthrow the Public House was the swiftest and easiest path.
They had actively coborated with thete emperor, employing every possible means to gather evidence of the Public House¡¯s transgressions. Regrettably, these efforts only hastened thete emperor¡¯s demise.
This might be a key reason why Lin Yue refrained from informing the General Manor. He harbored a disdain for the General Manor, ming their ipetence for the unraveling of their ns.
Beside the old general, the strategist offered counsel, ¡°General, your loyalty to His Highness is unquestionable. His Highness will surelyprehend your actions. Moving forward, consider heeding His Highness¡¯ counsel more often.¡±
The old general, known for his stubbornness, sometimes dismissed the counsel of those around him without a second thought. Only time would reveal if he would be more receptive to the wisdom offered by His Highness..
Chapter 601 - 601: Filthy Thoughts
Chapter 601 - 601: Filthy Thoughts
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The new emperor officially ascended the throne, granted the right to maintain a harem of 3,000 beauties.
The initial batch of over ten beauties entered the pce, and after a thorough appraisal, he selected only two tovish attention upon. However, the novelty wore off quickly, leaving him bored after a single night.
His mind fixated on the enchanting image of Qin Zhenzhen, her devilish allure lingering in his thoughts. The idea of her figure potentially changing due to childbirth sparked intense resentment toward Su Bin, the man who had allegedly stolen her away.
Determined to eliminate this perceived rival, the new emperor¡¯s obsession with Qin Zhenzhen surpassed his satisfaction with the pce beauties. Desiring someone akin to her, he dispatched agents outside the pce to select new consorts based on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s portrait.
However, the selected beauties fell short of capturing the essence of Qin Zhenzhen. Despite trying several, he couldn¡¯t find one that matched the intensity of his desire.
Frustration set in, and his thoughts took a dark turn. He resolved to find a way to possess Qin Zhenzhen, even if she had given birth. His fixation transcended the allure of harem beauties or nobledies, recognizing the post-pregnancy transformations they undergo to regain their allure.
Undeterred by the challenges, the new emperor harbored a singr desire¡ªQin Zhenzhen. He believed that, post-childbirth, women, including Qin Zhenzhen, be even more enchanting, restoring their figures with a charm surpassing their pre-pregnancy allure.
How could he secure Qin Zhenzhen?
His n unfolded with the first step¡ªtransferring Su Bin back to the capital, apanied by his wife and child. The next move involved feigning illness, presenting a facade of medical helplessness, and ensnaring Qin Zhenzhen into the Imperial Pce. Once within the pce walls, he could execute his desires freely. For Su Bin, a death sentence would conveniently remove him from the equation, out of sight and mind.
In this scenario, Qin Zhenzhen would serve as his personal doctor, ensuring her perpetual presence by his side.
Resolute in his decision, the emperor, master of the realm, refused to ept any oue that denied him the woman he desired.
However, the challengey in the Public House¡¯s control over the royal court. Approval from the Public House was necessary to transfer Su Bin back to the capital, and the emperor anticipated objections once his true intentions surfaced. Undeterred, he resolved to act first and reportter, refusing to believe that, as emperor, hecked the authority to pursue the woman of his choosing.
Seizing the moment, the new emperor turned to his ministers, abruptly questioning, ¡°Dear ministers, do you still recall Governor Su, who was transferred to Upper Lin Prefecture City?¡±
In unison, the ministers replied, ¡°Your Majesty, we remember!¡±
Satisfied with their responsiveness, the emperor probed further, ¡°Dear ministers, what are your thoughts on Governor Su as an official?¡±
The ministers faced a delicate quandary. Su Bin¡¯s earlier demotion, while ostensibly a decree by thete emperor, had been a brainchild of the Public House. Now, the new emperor¡¯s sudden mention of Su Bin hinted at a potential transfer back to the capital.
Aware of the intricacies, the ministers discreetly observed the old duke¡¯s expression. His furrowed brow unveiled the mystery¡ªthis move aligned with thete emperor¡¯s intention and had not been pre-discussed with the Public House.
A hushed silence fell among the ministers, each wary of taking any action that might incur the displeasure of either the new emperor or the influential Public House.
A minister, seemingly prearranged by the new emperor, stepped forward and reported, ¡°Your Majesty, Governor Su was relocated to Shanglin Prefecture. In the initial month, he aplished a significant feat. Without deploying a single soldier of the realm, he eradicated the stronghold of remnants from the previous dynasty concealed in the mountains..¡±
Chapter 602 - 602: Pretending to Faint
Chapter 602 - 602: Pretending to Faint
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Not only that, Governor Su managed to restore Shanglin Prefecture within just half a year. The residents now enjoy a peaceful life, with even those who had relocated returning to their homes.¡±
¡°He¡¯s earned immense gratitude from the people, and the tax revenue for the past six months has multiplied tenfold.¡±
Upon hearing this, a pleased smile graced the new emperor¡¯s face. ¡°It seems
Governor Su is indeed a rare talent.¡±
¡°I recall that Governor Su previously served at the Court of Judicial Review before his assignment to Shanglin Prefecture.¡±
¡°If he¡¯s truly an exceptional talent, let¡¯s not confine him to a smaller domain.¡± However, the old duke wore a persistent frown. He sensed trouble brewing once again at the hands of the new emperor.
It was evident to the old duke that the motive behind Su Bin¡¯s potential transfer back to the capital was linked to Mrs. Su. He understood the emperor¡¯s intentions all too well and couldn¡¯t allow him to act recklessly.
Desperate to intervene discreetly, the old duke subtly signaled the king several times, urging him to cease discussing the matter. However, the king appeared oblivious and continued with the topic.
As long as the new emperor expressed the desire to relocate Su Bin to the capital, the situation would be resolved. The old duke, unwilling to concede any ground, interrupted abruptly, showing little regard for thete emperor¡¯s reputation.
¡°Your Majesty! Governor Su is undoubtedly a talented individual, particrly adept at managing smaller territories.¡±
¡°However, Governor Su has his shorings. Hecks directness, making him unsuitable for the responsibilities at the Dali Temple. Moreover, he ces excessive emphasis on personal rtionships, prioritizing family over state matters.¡±
¡°This was precisely why thete emperor chose to transfer Governor Su to Shanglin Prefecture.¡±
¡°Facts have proven that thete emperor was wise and decisive. Governor Su indeed achieved sess upon assuming his role in Shanglin.¡±
¡°This, however, reinforces the notion that Governor Su¡¯s talents are best suited for the management of smaller territories.¡±
The old duke, brimming with vigor, delivered a rapid session of words.
The new emperor couldn¡¯t help but be impressed by the old duke¡¯s eloquence. Nevertheless, his determination remained unshaken. Whether or not the old duke attempted to thwart him, he intended to issue the decree for Su Bin¡¯s transfer back to the capital.
Observing the kines disregard for his advice and noting his imminent continuation, the old duke¡¯s anxiety heightened. He issued a stern warning, ¡°The emperor must remember that Governor Su was transferred to Shanglin by thete emperor himself!¡±
In essence, was the emperor prepared to defy a decree issued by thete emperor so soon after his passing?
Yet, the new emperor remained resolute. He paid little heed to the old duke¡¯s warning, fueled by two primary motives: securing Qin Zhenzhen and unsettling the Public House.
As the old duke¡¯s frustration threatened to boil over, the new emperor relished the anticipation of causing him further distress.
Just as the new emperor prepared to announce the decree, the old duke¡¯s eyes rolled back, and he copsed in the hall.
Chaos ensued among the civil and military officials, with those closest rushing to his aid.
¡°Lord State Duke, what¡¯s happening?¡±
¡°Lord State Duke, wake up!¡±
¡°s, Lord State Duke has truly fainted¡
¡°We need to summon a doctor immediately!¡±
Thete emperor, seated on the dragon throne, silently cursed the old duke¡¯s increasing craftiness. In this critical moment, the old duke dared to feign a fainting spell.
The ministers likely saw through the ruse, yet none exposed him, instead actively aiding in the deception.
With the court in disarray, issuing a decree seemed improbable.
The new emperor had no choice but to maintain the charade. Stepping down from the dragon throne, he ordered, ¡°Quickly, summon the imperial physician!¡±
A group of eunuchs transported the old duke into the inner hall.
The new emperor dered the court¡¯s dismissal, leaving the civil and military officials awaiting the oue outside the hall. Spections swirled about whether the old duke could sway the new emperor.
Inside the inner hall, the old duke abandoned the pretense of fainting, fixing a cold gaze on the new emperor.
Hitting the nail on the head, he questioned, ¡°Is this about Divine Doctor Qin?¡±
Chapter 603 - 603: An Old Fox
Chapter 603 - 603: An Old Fox
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The new emperor maintained an unchanged expression. ¡°So what if I am?¡± ¡°As an emperor, don¡¯t I have the right to desire a woman?¡±
The old duke, infuriated to the point of turning red, retorted, ¡°You can have any woman you desire. Why target a married one? Do you realize the disgrace you bring upon yourself?¡±
The new emperor sneered, ¡°Lord State Duke, does my face matter?¡±
Momentarily taken aback, the old duke questioned, ¡°The emperor¡¯s countenance represents the entire nation. Is it not important, as the emperor decrees?¡±
The new emperor continued his derisive tone, ¡°I see!¡±
The old duke, seething with anger, couldn¡¯t help butugh bitterly. ¡°Your Majesty, there¡¯s no need for such sarcasm. I understand your discontent. Do you resent me for constraining your freedom?¡±
A disdainful snort was the new emperor¡¯s only response. He knew the answer but chose not to acknowledge it.
Just then, the eunuch on guard shouted, ¡°Your Majesty, Imperial Physician Liu and Imperial Physician Lin have arrived.¡±
The new emperor¡¯s countenance darkened. ¡°Allow them entry.¡±
The charade had to persist.
Imperial Physician Liu and Imperial Physician Lin, upon seeing the old duke awake, breathed a sigh of relief. The young eunuch who had summoned them fled hastily, his face drained of color. Fearful for the old duke¡¯s life, they had hurried to the scene, pondering the consequences should they fail to treat him in time or if he perished before their arrival.
Considering the current might of the Public House, the imperial physicians feared instant execution for their involvement. The more they dwelled on the prospect, the greater their anxiety grew. Recognizing their ill fortune, they acknowledged their luck at seeing the old duke alive, sighing in relief and swiftly making their exit.
Taking the old duke¡¯s pulse and exchanging a nce, the physicians concluded, ¡°Lord State Duke, being advanced in age, has likely overexerted himself during his journey home, resulting in a fainting episode due to fatigue.¡±
With this diagnosis, the imperial physicians prescribed a Qi and blood-nourishing concoction and departed.
Reviewing the medicinal prescription, the new emperor felt a twinge of difort. The prescription included an ingredient requiring the oldest ginseng avable. Coincidentally, a thousand-year-old ginseng graced the imperial treasury, a gift from the Goryeo envoy during his ascension.
Initially intended for personal use to replenish his own vitality, the new emperor now contemted whether to extend the offering to the old duke.
Seizing the moment, the old duke shamelessly suggested, ¡°Considering my deteriorating health, and recalling the treasury¡¯s thousand-year-old ginseng, why not gift it to me?¡±
As the new emperor contemted his response, a report echoed from outside.
¡°Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager has arrived. She wishes to visit and inquire about Lord State Duke¡¯s well-being.¡±
¡°Allow Grandmother to enter.¡±
Upon ascending the throne, the new emperor¡¯s mother assumed the role of Empress Dowager, while the former Empress Dowager became the Empress
Dowager Dowager. Hearing of her brother¡¯s fainting episode, the Empress Dowager hurriedly arrived, sensing a grave situation. Upon entering and witnessing the old duke¡¯s well-being, she outwardly sighed in relief while privately cursing him as a cunning old fox.
Observing the old duke¡¯s condition, the Empress Dowager concluded that his earlier fainting spell was a calcted act to unnerve the new emperor. Though she believed in the ruse, rushing to the scene, she was met with a seemingly intact old duke, leaving her both relieved on the surface and exasperated beneath the facade..
Chapter 604 - 604: Guessed Right
Chapter 604 - 604: Guessed Right
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After all, the old duke was the elder brother of the Empress Dowager. During her time as the crown prince consort, he had exerted considerable effort to secure her position.
In the past, he had been a supportive and caring brother.
However, his current aspirations to seize the throne and condemn her to eternal damnation erased the memory of his past benevolence.
Despite harboring resentment, the Empress Dowager refrained from exposing that incriminating document in her possession. Instead, she chose to address a matter relevant to him.
The old duke expressed gratitude, saying, ¡°I am genuinely thankful for the
Empress Dowager¡¯s concern.¡±
She responded, ¡°I will never forget that you are my biological brother.¡±
Directly, the Empress Dowager queried, ¡°What transpired in the court?¡±
Thete emperor¡¯s countenance darkened, and he disyed no intent to answer.
The old duke proceeded to narrate the events.
Observing the new emperor with a resentful gaze, the Empress Dowager eximed, ¡°Is this truly your intent? For Qin Zhenzhen, you discard etiquette, integrity, and shame? You would go so far as to harm me just to im my wife. Do youprehend the repercussions if this scandal were to spread?¡±
The new emperor refuted his prior statement, stating, ¡°My true motivation is revenge! You only know part of the story, not the entirety. Duringst year¡¯s garden event. an incident urred involving mv sister- It wasn¡¯t the work of outsiders; it was orchestrated by Su Bin and the Third Prince!¡±
The Empress Dowager, taken aback, inquired, ¡°Is this indeed true?¡±
The new emperor affirmed, ¡°Absolutely! If they weren¡¯t spies, how could those individuals execute the n so wlessly?¡±
¡°At that time, I informed my father, but he sought to shield the Third Prince and sided with his ount. He and Su Bin dismissed the matter entirely.¡±
¡°That incident shattered my sister and brought disgrace upon the royal family!¡±
¡°Despite my public deration of my sister¡¯s innocence, she was still driven to madness!¡±
¡°Every time I witness my royal sister screaming, her hair disheveled, tormented until she¡¯s as frail as a matchstick, it pierces my heart with immense pain. I secretly vowed to avenge my royal sister!¡±
¡°Transferring Su Bin back to the capital will facilitate catching him in the act.¡± ¡°This is why I am insistent on bringing Su Bin back to the capital!¡±
The new emperor grew more animated with each word, delivering his narrative with apparent sincerity, even if it was a fabrication.
¡°My sister has always been magnanimous and carefree, unlike ordinary women. Given her personality, it¡¯s imusible for her to go mad.¡±
¡°I suspect that she has been administered a substance inducing madness. Although the imperial physicians acknowledge it, they are powerless. They im that the person who tied the bell must untie it.¡±
¡°To restore my sister, we need someone capable of formting this potion.¡± ¡°Only Qin Zhenzhen possesses the skill to create such a potent concoction!¡± ¡°For the sake of my sister, I willpel the antidote from Qin Zhenzhen!¡±
The new emperor, appearing benevolent and passionate, presented himself as a concerned sibling.
The old duke scoffed.
¡°Why haven¡¯t I heard from the imperial physicians that the princess went mad due to poisoning?¡±
Indeed, the imperial physicians had not explicitly stated this; it was merely a conjecture.
Yet, the new emperor¡¯s assertion was correct.
Su Bin had indeed administered a pill to the fifth princess, and it was a creation of Qin Zhenzhen. Consuming it induced a gradual descent into madness.
Qin Zhenzhen seethed with anger at the fifth princess¡¯s malicious and shameless behavior. Not only did she seek to im Su Bin for herself, but she also aimed to tarnish Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s reputation.
Su Bin harbored simr sentiments. Anyone audacious enough to harm his wife deserved nothing less than a torturous demise.
Considering the malevolence of the fifth princess, Su Bin believed that even if her reputation was tarnished, she would persist in causing harm. In his opinion, subjecting her to a year and a half of torment before her death would be the most fitting retribution..
Chapter 605 - 605: Advice
Chapter 605 - 605: Advice
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°They didn¡¯t dare to state it explicitly because they couldn¡¯t formte the antidote and were afraid of losing their heads!¡±
¡°The primary reason for transferring Su Bin back to the capital is topel Qin
Zhenzhen to provide the antidote!¡±
The new emperor believed he had a justifiable cause, but the old duke responded sternly.
¡°Even if we bring Su Bin back to the capital, Mrs. Su won¡¯t apany him, considering she recently gave birth to a son!¡± This revtion angered the new emperor.
¡°So what if she won¡¯t?!¡±
¡°Is she daring enough to defy an imperial edict and refrain from entering the pce?¡±
He was curious to witness Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s postpartum state. Would it render him powerless?
¡°As the supreme ruler, can¡¯t I handle a woman?!¡±
He asserted his authority as the emperor, refusing to tolerate any inconvenience.
In this life, he was resolute about marrying Qin Zhenzhen. If she proved obedient and charming, he wouldvish his affections solely on her. However, if her demeanor changed or she became cold, he wouldn¡¯t hesitate to eliminate her.
The emperor contemted his desires, his thoughts almost transparent on his face.
Understanding, the old duke sighed, ¡°Your Majesty holds the highest position in the world, and dealing with a woman should indeed be within your capacity. Yet, have you considered the potential consequences of such actions?¡± The new emperor inquired patiently, ¡°What would be the consequences?¡±
The old duke spoke earnestly, ¡°When the Emperor was the Crown Prince, youthful ignorance might have hindered a full understanding of state matters. However, now as the ruler, it is your responsibility toprehend the intricacies of governance.¡±
¡°Your Majesty, are you aware of how much Su Bin and Madam Su have contributed to the national treasury in the past two years?¡±
The new emperor hesitated for a moment. ¡°What percentage?¡±
Previously, as a non-emperor, it was not within his purview to inquire about the national treasury¡¯s ie. Although now an emperor, the timeframe had been too brief for such details.
The old duke extended his palm to disy a fraction. ¡°Two-fifths!¡± The new emperor disyed surprise. ¡°Madam Su alone can contribute so much?¡±
The old duke affirmed, ¡°Indeed! Their influence is significant.¡± ¡°Almost half of the country¡¯s taxes are attributed to their family.¡± ¡°This is precisely why I object to any interference with Su Bin and Qin
Zhenzhen. ¡±
¡°Depriving them of this contribution would lead to an almost 50% reduction in the national treasury¡¯s ie!¡±
The new emperor scoffed. ¡°Can¡¯t we just seize their assets and rece them with our people?¡±
The old duke sighed once more.
¡°If that were possible, I wouldn¡¯t hinder the Emperor!¡±
¡°The sess of the Su and Qin families hinges on Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s medicinal formtions and her exceptional business acumen.¡±
¡°Her business methods have be a model for enterprises across the country. Over the past two years, not only have they increased their tax payments, but other businesses have also experienced a surge in taxes.¡±
¡°Our nation¡¯s economy has taken a significant leap forward due to their contributions. It cannot be denied that our country is gradually prospering.¡±
¡°Without Mrs. Su, what¡¯s the use of seizing those businesses? Ultimately, they will copse due to mismanagement.¡±
¡°Your Majesty, do not overlook the fact that Qin Zhenzhen is a harbinger of good fortune. She has the ability to bring prosperity to her family and, by extension, to the entire nation. Her past actions, including saving the entire royal family, stand as the mostpelling evidence of her contributions.¡±
The old duke presented his arguments with eloquence and a logical analysis.
Even the Grand Empress Dowager found the old duke¡¯s reasoning to be convincing and not merely spective.
She reminisced about thete emperor¡¯s words to her. He had cautioned that neglecting one¡¯s benefactor would inevitably lead to dire consequences..
Chapter 606 - 606: You Can’t Do This
Chapter 606 - 606: You Can¡¯t Do This
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
However, the new emperor asserted, ¡°I didn¡¯t explicitly state that I would inevitably end Qin Zhenzhen¡¯s life. As long as sheplies obediently, I will spare her and allow her to continue managing business to replenish the treasury.¡±
The Empress Dowagerprehended the new emperor¡¯s underlying intentions. She discerned that, camouged under the pretext of avenging his royal sister, he actually aimed to include Qin Zhenzhen in his harem.
Unable to withhold her counsel, the Empress Dowager addressed the new emperor, ¡°Your Majesty, Lord State Duke has a valid point!¡±
¡°If Governor Su faces execution, Mrs. Su is bound to harbor profound resentment. She might devise schemes against the throne, rather than contributing to the imperial treasury.¡±
As the Empress Dowager, she harbored no reservations in expressing her thoughts to the new emperor.
However, her words displeased the monarch.
¡°What nonsense are you spouting? People value their lives. I will permit her existence and treat her generously, providing a lifetime of prosperity. She ought to be grateful to me!¡±
The new emperor¡¯s wordsid bare his true intentions, causing even the Empress Dowager¡¯s countenance to darken.
¡°What goes on in His Majesty¡¯s mind? It eludes myprehension!¡±
¡°Su Bin holds a special ce in Mrs. Su¡¯s heart. If the emperor proceeds with her execution, will she still ept your benevolence and bestow wealth upon the throne?¡±
¡°Had she been a superficial woman, she would have clung to the emperor¡¯s wealth and glory when he expressed interest in her. Instead, she remained loyal to Su Bin, disregarding the opulence offered by the emperor.¡±
¡°Mrs. Su is a woman of integrity!¡±
¡°Simultaneously, she is a harbinger of good fortune!¡±
¡°Your Majesty, it would be prudent to heed Lord State Duke¡¯s counsel and discard any impractical notions!¡±
After a stern rebuke from the Empress Dowager, the new king appeared to recognize his error. His tone softened, yet he persisted in advocating for Su Bin¡¯s return to the capital.
Even if he refrained from relocating Su Bin, he intended to bring Qin Zhenzhen into the pce to attend to his sister¡¯s ailment.
Internally, he resolved, ¡°No matter how much persuasion I face, I must meet Qin Zhenzhen! ¡±
The ensuing consequences were beyond their control.
And he had no desire to exercise control over himself.
¡°I yield to your counsel! Su Bin shall go unpunished, and I won¡¯t transfer him back to the capital for now.¡±
¡°But I grieve for my sister!¡±
¡°Subsequently, I shall issue an imperial edict summoning Qin Zhenzhen to the pce for the treatment of my royal sister. Until her recovery, she will not be allowed to leave the pce!¡±
The Empress Dowager was incensed. ¡°Your Majesty! Can¡¯t you exercise restraint!¡±
¡°You, you, you! This is infuriating!¡±
That night, she dismissed all the pce maids and eunuchs, engaging in a lengthy conversation with the new emperor. They discussed the ambitions of the Public House and the necessity of remaining vignt against their attempts to seize the throne. They deliberated on strategies to counter the Public House and fortify their own position, vowing not to repeat the mistakes of thete emperor, who fell victim to the Public House¡¯s machinations.
The new emperor had pledged to strengthen his rule and resist being a mere puppet monarch.
Yet, in the end, his thoughts were consumed by desires for a romantic liaison.
He neglected political affairs and the Empress Dowager¡¯s guidance, even overlooking Mrs. Su, who had borne him a child. He was determined to possess her.
At this pace, the Chu family¡¯s empire seemed destined to be wrested away by her family sooner orter.
How would she face the ancestors of the Chu n after her demise?
¡°Your Majesty, you must reconsider!¡±
The old duke, too, was furious. Though he had silently cursed the new emperor countless times, he could only diplomatically offer his persuasion on the surface.
¡°I implore Your Majesty to heed my counsel..¡±
Chapter 607 - 607: Roping In (1)
Chapter 607 - 607: Roping In (1)
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
¡°Your Majesty, recall the time when the fifth princess fell ill, and you sought Mrs. Su¡¯s assistance. However, Mrs. Su, acknowledging the fifth princess¡¯s mental ailment, expressed her remorse and helplessness.¡±
¡°It was emphasized that the fifth princess could heal if she forgave herself, avoiding the need for medication. Yet, if she remains trapped in trauma, her recovery will remain elusive.¡±
¡°But now, with this imperial edict, aren¡¯t youplicating matters for her?¡±
¡°Revealing this incident would not only disappoint the civil and military officials but also expose the emperor¡¯s true sentiments. You are aware of the potential consequences!¡±
The old duke¡¯s patience had worn thin. Initially, he tried to diplomatically persuade the new emperor, but seeing the king turn a deaf ear and persist in his intentions, the old duke¡¯s frustration boiled over. His final words were stern,cking any pretense of deference.
He adopted a threatening tone, indicating that if the new king persisted, he would face a fate akin to the previous emperor¡¯s.
¡°I trust Your Majestyprehends the gravity of the situation. I shall take my leave.¡±
With a somber expression, the old duke departed from the inner hall. The civil and military officials outside refrained from questioning him, given his stern demeanor.
Only the old duke¡¯s trusted minister cautiously approached.
The old duke tersely stated, ¡°There¡¯s nothing more to discuss. Kindly depart!¡± Only after the old duke¡¯s departure did the civil and military officials disperse, one after another.
Inside the hall, the Empress Dowager pointed at the new emperor, admonishing him sternly.
¡°Why can¡¯t you set aside your inappropriate thoughts! You are the emperor! Periodically, a procession of beauties enters the pce. You can choose any woman you desire. Why fixate on Mrs. Su?¡±
¡°If you are wise, express goodwill towards Su Bin and Mrs. Su. Gaining their support would undoubtedly hasten the downfall of the Public House!¡±
¡°Instead of devising ns against them, focus on how to bring Su Bin and Mrs. Su into your alliance.¡±
The new emperor¡¯s arrogance had dissipated upon the old duke¡¯s departure, his ears ringing with the gravity of the warning. He couldn¡¯t dismiss the fear of facing a fate simr to thete emperor.
He was genuinely apprehensive, especially when the old duke, losing patience, departed with a flick of his sleeve¡ªsending shivers down the new emperor¡¯s spine.
Fortunately, the Grand Empress Dowager remained unaware of his visible trepidation. Otherwise, he might have sought refuge in a crack in the ground.
Hearing the Empress Dowager¡¯s counsel, the new emperor felt dejected. ¡°I¡¯ve considered this approach, but I fear Su Bin¡¯s resentment. After all, I once¡¡±
He had harbored intentions toward Mrs. Su and almost seeded, causing natural animosity from Su Bin.
¡°That¡¯s why I contemte removing Su Bin from the equation.¡±
¡°If this continues, their wealth could rival a nation¡¯s. If they harbor ill intentions, won¡¯t they be harder to control in the future?¡±
The Empress Dowager sympathized with the new emperor.
She reassured him, patting her chest. ¡°Fear not, Your Majesty! Release your feelings for Mrs. Su and ally with them. Allow me to handle it!¡±
Even confined within the deep pce, she remained well- informed about external affairs. Having cultivated her own influence during her time as empress, her power remained a well-kept secret, unknown to both sessive emperors and members of the Public House.
When the time came, her discreet decrees would reach Su Bin and Mrs. Su..
Chapter 608 - 608: Roping In (2)
Chapter 608 - 608: Roping In (2)
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The new emperor remained defiant. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be wiser to offer Su Bin a prominent position and a generous sry?
His desire to meet Qin Zhenzhen persisted, even if acquiring her was no longer an option.
The Empress Dowager earnestly responded, ¡°Do you understand why Lord
State Duke opposes transferring Su Bin back to the capital?¡±
¡°Their wealth is growing exponentially. Money holds significant sway. Even leaders in the martial arts world and renowned martial heroes are willing to assist them.¡±
¡°With more high-ranking officials and substantial rewards, an increasing number of civil and military officials will willingly submit to their influence.¡± ¡°This could lead to a resurgence of their family¡¯s dominance.¡±
The new emperor grasped the insight. ¡°So Lord State Duke is against Su Bin¡¯s return to the capital due to two concerns.¡±
¡°One, they fear that I might find a pretext to execute Su Bin, resulting in a significant reduction in national treasury revenue.¡± ¡°Two, they worry that we might form an alliance with Su Bin against them.¡± The Empress Dowager nodded in agreement. ¡°Exactly!¡±
¡°If the Emperor contemtes this matter seriously, he will recognize the advantages of sparing Su Bin¡¯s life.¡±
¡°I am prepared to discreetly inform Su Bin that the Public House, concerned about their increasing wealth and influence, contemted eliminating them preemptively. However, we intervened and protected them.¡±
¡°This is because Mrs. Su once saved the entire royal family, and we cannot forget such a debt of gratitude.¡±
Moreover, he remained well-informed about the urrences in the capital, courtesy of the Dragon Phoenix Hall¡¯s ability to acquire firsthand news. The Third Prince found himself wrongly used of attempting to assassinate the new emperor. In response, the new emperor dispatched agents to hunt down the Third Prince within the capital, seeking to eliminate him. Ultimately, the gravely injured Third Prince managed to escape the capital with the assistance of his master.
Publicly, the new emperor proimed clemency for the Third Prince, citing his youth and ignorance. He dered that as long as the Third Prince refrained from returning to the capital, no further attempts on his life would be made.
Contrary to this public stance, the new emperor ndestinely deployed a significant number of individuals to track down the Third Prince. Even the Public House joined the pursuit, convinced that the new emperor¡¯s actions were a clear attempt to eliminate the Third Prince. Such an act would undoubtedly ignite the Third Prince¡¯s resolve, especially if he harbored aspirations for the throne, posing a threat to the Public House¡¯s future ns of usurpation.
In response, the Public House decided to take preemptive action by dispatching its own operatives to eliminate the Third Prince. Ideally, if the new emperor¡¯s agents were the ones to seed, it would intensify the animosity between the new emperor and the General Manor.
The Public House saw this as a strategic advantage, as it would serve their interests in the eventual usurpation of the throne. Sessful in their bid for power, they hoped to persuade the General Manor to continue safeguarding the borders, presenting a seemingly foolproof n.
The loyalty and valor of the General Manor¡¯s inhabitants were unparalleled. They possessed a profound sense of allegiance to their country, caring deeply for the well-being of its people. The prospect of enemy armored cavalry trampling theirnd was intolerable to them.
Furthermore, the General Manor eschewed intricate schemes and plots, making them easy to control.
Leaving them behind offered more advantages than drawbacks.
This was the principal rationale behind the Public House¡¯s decision not tounch an assault on the General Manor.
It also elucidated why Su Bin and Qin Zhenzhen willingly allowed them ess to the military camp.
Both the highest echelons of the nation and the militarymanders valued individuals who could secure victories, making them hesitant to dispose of such assets.
Currently, Su Bin and Qin Silong found themselves in a secure position. While they enjoyed fame within the military camp and garnered admiration from numerous soldiers, their roles as a thousand-manmander and ten-thousand-manmander, respectively, meant they held no substantial military authority. As such, they posed no threat to the interests of the Public House..
Chapter 609 - 609: Catastrophe
Chapter 609 - 609: Catastrophe
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
The representatives from the Public House arrived at Shanglin before those from the Empress Dowager ¨C the middle-aged man and his young associate who had visited previously.
¡°Governor Su, we meet again.¡±
¡°Governor Li, please.¡± Su Bin ushered them into the study, maintaining a reserved demeanor.
Once in the study, Governor Li informed Su Bin that he was now under the Lord State Duke¡¯s authority. He went on to rify, ¡°Thete emperor and Lord State Duke were originally aligned.¡±
This meant that following thete emperor¡¯s demise, Governor Li had be solely ountable to Lord State Duke.
¡°After thete emperor¡¯s passing, the new emperor assumed the throne. Given the recent transition, everything was in flux. However, a significant event urred during this delicate period.¡±
¡°Governor Su, you must be aware that the Third Prince attempted to assassinate the new emperor at the funeral.¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°I received a notice. I am aware of the situation.¡¯
The report detailed the Third Prince¡¯s crimes, including a portrait and a directive for local officials to be vignt for any suspicious individuals. If anyone resembling the Third Prince was identified, they were to be apprehended immediately and reported to higher authorities for transportation back to the capital.
Once the Third Prince acknowledged his wrongdoing and was banished from the capital, returning would be strictly prohibited. Resisting such a decree could result in ruthless execution.
Officials caught aiding the Third Prince would be deemed his aplices. Stripped of their positions, they and their families faced execution.
This announcement essentially dered a nationwide manhunt for the Third Prince.
Governor Li abruptly questioned Su Bin, ¡°Governor Su, do you believe that the Third Prince intends to assassinate the new emperor?¡±
Su Bin affirmed, ¡°Yes.¡¯
The Third Prince harbored deep-seated animosity towards the new emperor, likely nurturing intentions of causing him harm.
However, Su Bin doubted the Third Prince¡¯s involvement during the wake.
Insider information obtained by the Dragon Phoenix Hall indicated that the Third Prince was coerced into attempting the assassination. It appeared that the new emperor, acting covertly without the Public House¡¯s knowledge, sought to shift me onto them.
Governor Li, wearing a faint frown, inquired, ¡°Why do you believe that?¡±
Su Bin smiled knowingly, ¡°As an official of the Imperial Court, shouldn¡¯t you
trust the court¡¯s official announcements?¡±
Governor Li reciprocated the smile, saying, ¡°Governor Su, you are quite cautious.¡±
¡°Actually,¡± he continued, ¡°I¡¯ve made it clear that I am aligned with Lord State
Duke. Governor Su, if you have differing views, why not express them openly to
Su Bin feigned confusion, asking, ¡°Governor Li, what do you mean? I don¡¯t understand.¡±
It was evident that Su Bin was ying the fool.
Governor Li ceased beating around the bush. ¡°Let me be frank with you. Lord State Duke and the new emperor differ in their perspectives. The new emperor, being young and headstrong, disregards Lord State Duke¡¯s counsel.¡±
¡°In the case of the Third Prince¡¯s supposed assassination attempt, Lord State Duke was incensed because the Third Prince hadn¡¯t attempted any assassination at all!¡±
Su Bin pretended to be surprised. ¡°There¡¯s¡ such a revtion?¡±
Governor Li hushed his tone and warned, ¡°Governor Su, this is confidential. Do not disclose it.¡±
Su Bin promptly acknowledged, ¡°I understand!¡±
¡°But why would His Majesty do that?¡±
¡°The Emperor has always perceived the Third Prince as a threat to his throne. Additionally, he possesses a vindictive nature, marked by impulsiveness and stubbornness.¡±
Su Bin gestured dismissively, saying, ¡°Governor Li, let¡¯s end this discussion!¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t a matter for us to delve into.
Governor Li smiled and remarked, ¡°Governor Su, you are quite cautious!¡± ¡°There¡¯s a reason behind my disclosure.¡±
¡°In fact, I¡¯m here to impart some information to Governor Su.. Governor Su is on the brink of facing a catastrophe!¡±
Chapter 610 - 610: Focus
Chapter 610 - 610: Focus
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin rose from his seat anxiously. ¡°A disaster is imminent?¡±
Governor Li also stood and gently urged Su Bin back into his chair. ¡°Governor
Su, don¡¯t panic. Lord State Duke has temporarily contained this situation.¡±
Then, Governor Li proceeded to recount the events transpiring in the royal court.
Su Bin sighed with relief. ¡°So, the emperor intends to transfer me back to the capital. I don¡¯t quiteprehend. It seems like a favorable development. Why would it be a disaster?¡±
Governor Li scrutinized Su Bin. In this moment, he considered that the old duke¡¯s judgment of Su Bin as a smart and astute individual might hold true.
How could Su Bin fail to recognize the tant trap set by the new emperor?
To his surprise, Su Bin continued, ¡°It¡¯s not that I can¡¯t make some educated guesses, but I dare not presume. Governor Li, please enlighten me!¡±
Governor Li reevaluated his perception of Su Bin. It appeared that Su Bin¡¯s caution exceeded his initial estimation.
No longer beating around the bush, Governor Li disclosed the nature of the trap set by the new emperor.
¡°As I mentioned earlier, the emperor is vindictive. He believes that the mishap involving the fifth princess is somehow connected to you and your wife.¡±
¡°The fifth princess has already suffered severe mental distress, rendered unrecognizable by her torment.¡±
¡°The emperor personally informed Lord State Duke that, upon your return to the capital, his primary motive is to have Mrs. Su treat the fifth princess.¡±
¡°Considering the fifth princess¡¯s incurable condition, the emperor intends to exploit this situation as grounds for your punishment and execution, seeking retribution for the fifth princess. Meanwhile, Mrs. Su will be confined within the pce indefinitely.¡±
With the detailsid bare, Su Bin could no longer feign ignorance. His expression shifted noticeably.
¡°How could His Majesty do this! How can he me me for something that happened to the fifth princess?¡±
Governor Li responded casually, ¡°Throughout history, if the ruler desires my demise, I have no recourse but to face it.¡¯
¡°Fortunately, Lord State Duke intervened.¡±
¡°Following that, Lord State Duke and the emperor had a falling out over this issue.¡±
¡°Do youprehend Lord State Duke¡¯s implications, Governor Su?¡±
Su Bin shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m not entirely sure.¡±
¡°I only know that Lord State Duke saved my life this time.¡±
¡°Will I always have to depend on the Public House for protection in the future?¡±
Governor Li nodded. ¡°You¡¯re correct.¡±
Su Bin appeared helpless. ¡°Then, what should I do?¡±
Governor Li advised, ¡°You don¡¯t have to take any drastic actions. Just refrain from opposing the Public House.¡±
¡°If ites to light that you are involved with the Third Prince or secretly forming your own faction, don¡¯t me the Public House for being unable to safeguard you!¡±
¡°Remember, the Public House is not only safeguarding the Su family but also the Qin family and Qin Silong in the military camp!¡±
¡°If you betray the trust of the Public House, I won¡¯t need to borate on the consequences!¡±
Having issued these warnings, Governor Li¡¯s tone softened again.
¡°As long as you stay in line, the Public House will ensure your protection.¡±
After a pause, Su Bin inquired, ¡°Simply stay in line?¡±
Governor Li cleared his throat. ¡°There¡¯s one more thing. Lord State Duke indicates that the Public House¡¯s expenses are exceedingly high. If there¡¯s ever a dy in fund transfers, Governor Su must be prepared to borrow money for the transfer.¡¯
This was the crux of the matter!
Su Bin scoffed inwardly.
Externally, he wore an expression of feigned helplessness. ¡°Engaging in business is challenging in the current climate. Many are swayed by market trends. We can only reduce profit margins, making the cash flow a bit constrained.¡±
¡°If Lord State Duke extends a substantial loan, I fear there¡¯s little we can do about it either..¡±
Chapter 611 - 611: There Are Benefits for You
Chapter 611 - 611: There Are Benefits for You
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Governor Li inquired, ¡°Do you have any specific requests, Governor Su?¡± Su Bin contemted, wanting to express his needs but hesitating.
Certainly, he needed to make a request; after all, who would lend money without expecting something in return? Moreover, there was a 100% chance that repayment might not happen after the loan.
If he didn¡¯t offer any benefits but wanted to borrow money without any strings attached, did he think Governor Li was naive?
Su Bin was well aware that the new emperor harbored intentions towards his wife and sought revenge against him. Lord State Duke, on the other hand, opposed the new emperor¡¯s aggression because he understood the impact of the Su and Qin families¡¯ businesses on the national treasury¡¯s revenue. Lord State Duke considered the broader perspective and their mutual interests.
Observing Su Bin¡¯s expression, Governor Li added, ¡°Lord State Duke has already conveyed that if you encounter any difficulties, feel free to speak up.
Lord State Duke will give it due consideration.¡±
With this assurance, Su Bin abandoned all formality.
He appreciated the old duke¡¯s pragmatic approach. He recognized that, in order to receive benefits, he needed to extend some in return.
¡°To ensure that there¡¯s enough funding to lend, we need to establish an exclusive business.¡±
¡°If the Su family and the Qin family¡¯s enterprises are endorsed with the royal emblem, it changes the dynamic. Those who dare to imitate would be in vition of thew.¡±
¡°The issue lies in the fact that these imitating merchants are diverse. While dealing with simr products, the criteria for selecting ingredients for medicinal herbs and substances differ. Some merchants even resort to using poorly preserved or spoiled ingredients to cut costs.¡±
¡°These are all products with medicinal and dietary origins. We must exercise caution.¡±
Governor Li attentively absorbed Su Bin¡¯s proposal.
¡°It¡¯s the same in various other industries. Take the example of the health center¡¯s training facility. Numerous imitations have sprouted, each with its own branding.¡±
¡°Despite mimicking our family¡¯s business model and offering lower fees, the nutritionists they provide are often unqualified due to differences in the quality of instructors. It¡¯s akin to dealing with quacks, posing a serious risk to people¡¯s well-being.¡±
Governor Li remarked, ¡°Iprehend. Essentially, you¡¯re suggesting that the training center should carry the royal family¡¯s emblem, and action needs to be taken against these imitators who¡¯ve proliferated.¡±
Su Bin affirmed, ¡°Exactly. It should be led by individuals possessing a certain level of qualifications, and the instructors must be certified. Otherwise, the consequences could be genuinely harmful!¡±
Governor Li chuckled. ¡°Understood! Once your family¡¯s pioneering enterprise is branded with a distinctive logo, imitation bes nearly impossible. And anyone attempting it would need to match your wife¡¯s qualifications and capabilities. ¡±
¡°But across the entire dynasty, how many canpare to your wife?¡±
Now, Governor Li no longer doubted Su Bin¡¯s intelligence. It was evident that Su Bin, while looking out for his own interests, managed to frame the matter in a lofty light.
Furthermore, Su Bin exhibited no signs of panic.
He had confidence that Lord State Duke would ensure his protection.
Su Bin reciprocated Governor Li¡¯s smile.
Governor Li drafted his request, then handed it over to Su Bin.
¡°Take a look and let me know if I missed anything.¡±
His demeanor towards Su Bin had transformed; he now regarded Su Bin as a coborator.
Su Bin perused the document andmended, ¡°Governor Li, your writing is outstanding, and your penmanship is truly elegant. One wouldn¡¯t guess you¡¯re a military official at all. I¡¯m genuinely impressed!¡±
His praise was sincere, not mere ttery.
Most people enjoyed receivingpliments, and Governor Li was clearly relishing it. He chuckled heartily.
Before departing, he leaned in and whispered to Su Bin, ¡°Truth be told, Lord
State Duke is quite a decent person!¡±
¡°If you choose to align yourself with Lord State Duke, there will be advantages for you in the future!¡±
This was a subtle indication to Su Bin that, should the Public House sessfully seize control in the future, those aligned with Lord State Duke would be recognized as meritorious officials and stand to reap substantial benefits..
Chapter 612 - 612: Allusion
Chapter 612 - 612: Allusion
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
After bidding farewell to Governor Li, Su Bin shared the details of his meeting with Qin Zhenzhen.
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled, ¡°Money truly wields incredible influence!¡±
She had always understood the power that wealth held.
Realizing he couldn¡¯t ascend to high political ranks, Su Bin cleverly focused on umting wealth. However, making money required strategy, and Su Bin¡¯s strategic mindplemented Qin Zhenzhen¡¯sck of scheming and courage.
While seeking favors from the Public House was akin to asking a tiger for its skin, Su Bin navigated it skillfully.
¡°You¡¯re truly audacious,¡± Qin Zhenzhen remarked.
Su Bin smiled, ¡°Know yourself and your enemy, and you will win every battle.¡±
¡°All thanks to the intelligence from the Dragon Phoenix Hall. If the Public House aims to change dynasties and govern the world, they¡¯ll undoubtedly require significant funds. My wife¡¯s proficiency in wealth umtion is evident to all and irreceable.¡±
¡°It¡¯s only natural for the Public House to choose us. I am confident in making this request now. Moreover, it will help alleviate the Public House¡¯s suspicion of us.¡¯
¡°We must maintain the appearance of ordinary individuals. People perish for wealth, and birds fall for food.¡¯
This approach would prevent the Public House from suspecting any alliance with the Third Prince.
Qin Zhenzhen responded earnestly, ¡°In this world, everyone loves money.
Besides, we don¡¯t aspire to be saints.¡±
Marking all businesses under her name with a distinctive logo would provide an additionalyer of protection.
This could be deemed the ancient equivalent of a name tag.
It was indeed a name tag.
Qin Zhenzhen was well aware of the lucrative prospects associated with wearing such a logo.
Su Bin couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit proud.
¡°Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the new emperor will undoubtedly dispatch representatives.¡±
¡°Just like the Public House, they are in need of significant funds.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen had pondered this as well. ¡°Are you considering agreeing to them as well?¡±
Su Bin nodded. ¡°Whether it¡¯s the new emperor or the Empress Dowager, we have no other option but to agree.¡±
Refusing would undoubtedly pose risks. While the new emperor¡¯s foundation was currently shaky, the Public House could potentially suppress him. However, the Empress Dowager wielded substantial influence.
It wasn¡¯t particrly rming to incur the new emperor¡¯s displeasure, but crossing the Empress Dowager could lead to catastrophic consequences. The Public House could manipte the new emperor, but the Empress Dowager and others were beyond their control.
Although Su Bin had devised a contingency n, he preferred not to sever ties with the royal family unless absolutely necessary.
Su Bin elucidated his reasoning to Qin Zhenzhen.
¡°If the new emperor and others follow the Public House¡¯s example and covet our wealth, we¡¯ll make a simr request.¡±
¡°Moreover, I will inform the Public House of this development, signaling our inevitablepliance with the new emperor. This way, we won¡¯t expose ourselves, and it will also mitigate the Public House¡¯s suspicions against us¡ªa double benefit.
¡°I¡¯ll handle them appropriately based on the intelligence gathered by the
Dragon Phoenix Hall.¡±
¡°With my strategic acumen, I won¡¯t make any missteps.¡±
Qin Zhenzhen chuckled. ¡°I understand! It¡¯s called building a bridge openly and secretly constructing a warehouse.¡±
Cloaking their actions as a means of generating wealth for both the Public House and the new emperor, they conveniently opened doors. In reality, these maneuvers served as covert support for the Third Prince.
Su Bin quickly grasped the essence. ¡°Carrying out actions both overtly and covertly?¡±
¡°Wife, is this another reference from that book?¡±
Qin Zhenzhen smiled and elucidated, ¡°This originates from stage lyrics.¡±
She feltpelled to share this story with Su Bin..
Chapter 613 - 613: He Knows
Chapter 613 - 613: He Knows
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Qin Zhenzhen staunchly supported the Third Prince, recognizing him as the pivotal male protagonist destined to shape the narrative. The integrity of this central storyline was sacrosanct.
Notably, the author crafted the Third Prince as a virtuous character, surpassing the Crown Prince and the denizens of the Public House in strength and moral fiber. The prospect of him ascending the throne promised a boon for the entire realm.
Su Bin¡¯s allegiance to the Third Prince stemmed from a deep-seated resentment toward the new emperor and the audacious actions of the Public House. The new emperor, in particr, harbored grievances, still mourning histe wife and apprehensive about the Public House¡¯s designs on Qin Silong.
Within the narrative, the new emperor emerged as a formidable antagonist, nursing a profound grudge. His n involved manipting the Third Prince to dismantle both the new emperor and the Public House, preemptively averting potential futureplications and securing a tranquil existence.
In this regard, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin shared amon perspective.
A dayter, an emissary from the Empress Dowager sought out Su Bin, presenting a substantial reward as a gesture, ostensibly for Su Bin¡¯s son. The conversation swiftly delved into the heart of the matter.
Contrary to the Public House¡¯s narrative, the Grand Empress Dowager¡¯s representatives painted a contrasting picture. They asserted that the new emperor sought to eliminate Su Bin and enjoyed the protection of the Lord State Duke. Conversely, the Empress Dowager¡¯s camp contended that the Lord State Duke aimed to remove Su Bin, finding sanctuary in the new emperor.
Addingplexity to the situation, usations were hurled at the Public House, branding them as disloyal.
¡°The Public House currently wields considerable influence, aspiring to manipte the new emperor as their puppet. The Grand Empress Dowager has identified this issue, but dismantling the Public House proves to be a formidable challenge,¡± they exined.
¡°The Public House¡¯s ultimate aim is to seize control of this world.
¡°However, throughout history, usurping dominion over the world has been deemed an affront to the heavens. Countless cmities are foretold to rain down upon the people, plunging them into profound distress.¡±
¡°In the interest of stabilizing the court and ensuring the well-being of the popce, the Empress Dowager resolved to curtail the machinations of the Public House, even at the cost of abandoning her familial ties to it.¡±
Governor Lin, dispatched by the Empress Dowager, articted their position with great eloquence.
He asserted that the Empress Dowager and her allies were safeguarding their interests for the greater good of the people. They sought Su Bin¡¯s support by emphasizing the emperor¡¯s role as the Son of Destiny and the guardian of themon folk.
¡°However, the treasury is in a precarious state, with a significant portion of funds still under the control of the Public House. Therefore, the Empress Dowager urges Governor Su to be prepared. In case of a financial shortfall, she proposes borrowing funds from Governor Su.¡±
¡°The Empress Dowager insists that this loan is not without purpose. When the timees, she pledges to repay Governor Su with interest.¡±
¡°Rest assured, your contributions will not go unnoticed. Governor Su, due to your substantial efforts, you are ted to receive considerable rewards, including the possibility of attaining a high-ranking position with a generous sry.¡±
Internally, Su Bin scoffed at the apparent generosity.
As his wife had warned, they wereying out a tempting proposition. Yet, he couldn¡¯t ignore the possibility that they might turn against him in the future.
The Empress Dowager, in Su Bin¡¯s estimation, was far from virtuous, and the new emperor was even more dubious.
If the Public House were sessfully eradicated, Su Bin suspected that the new emperor might be the first to turn on them.
However, adept at ying a role, Su Bin feigned a troubled expression.
Governor Lin misconstrued Su Bin¡¯s demeanor.
¡°Governor Su, the Empress Dowager acknowledges that the new emperor, being young and easily influenced, may have acted under the sway of the Public House, causing harm to you and Madam Su. She extends her apologies and implores Governor Su not to harbor ill feelings.¡±
¡°The Emperor has evolved beyond his past self. He now shoulders the responsibility of ensuring the peace and prosperity of themon people. Rest assured, he understands the boundaries of his actions..
Chapter 614 - 614: Smiling Very Cheerfully
Chapter 614 - 614: Smiling Very Cheerfully
Trantor: Henyee Trantions Editor: Henyee Trantions
Su Bin hastily rified, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare harbor any resentment towards the emperor.¡±
¡°Making a living in this world is no simple task¡