7DLW Teaser 2

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Chapter 2 Drop Dough Soup

"You’re not leaving?" Song Wei Ping looked at Xu Xiao Jiao, who was patting the flour on her body as if nothing had happened, and asked her.

After venting out to Xu Yan Yan and Han Guang Hui, Xu Xiao Jiao's inner fire had finally subsided a bit. Next, she had to consider her future life.

The next step was to settle this new roommate in front of her.

"No rush. Didn’t I say I’ll make you breakfast. It's not time to go to work yet. Let's go and make breakfast first."

Oh, the old life of being salted fish was gone forever. For the sake of a better life in the future, she’ll have to move her hands and mouth.

Song Wei Ping wanted to voice out but recalled that the two of them woke up in the same bed in the morning. In the end, she was the one who suffered a loss. So he followed her into the house silently, wanting to see what she was up to.

Xu Xiao Jiao entered the simple kitchen behind the curtain, looked around, and gained a deep understanding of Song Wei Ping's poor life when he was young. A few handfuls of flour, a small half-pot of cornmeal, a few pickles, and two dry-shelled eggs that one can tell by touching that it had been kept for a long time and the owner was reluctant to eat them, half a can of coarse salt and a little oil. This was everything.

Befuddled, Xu Xiao Jiao glanced at Song Wei Ping, "What are you going to make for breakfast?"

Even though he was nicknamed a wolf cub, Song Wei Ping also felt a little embarrassed at the moment. He pursed his lips, "No need to make. I still have a few corn pancakes from last night. Just cut some pickles and it’s enough."

Really able to endure hardships. Xu Xiao Jiao gave him a thumbs up in her heart. Alright. To be able to take in the bitterness of hardship, then they were the best man. Pretty good.

"Let's make soup. Try to make soup or congee in the morning. It's good for your grandmother's health."

When it came to Grandmother, Song Wei Ping couldn't say anything, "What kind of soup?"

"Dough drop soup. I speak, you make."

If she can move her mouth, then won’t move her mouth.

Xu Xiao Jiao casually took out an egg from the small box. Turning around, she saw Song Wei Ping’s disapproval. She didn't beat around the bush, "Just now you said, I can find you if I need something. Now, I'm finding you. I don't have any other request. Just follow my instructions on making dough drop soup. What I said, I meant it. Since I said I’ll be filial to Grandma, I will do it. As for whether to agree or not, you can think about it first. This doesn’t delay me from making a good impression on Grandma."

Song Wei Ping was silent for a moment before taking two steps toward her, "How to make?"

Only then was Xu Xiao Jiao satisfied. It seemed that Song Wei Ping wasn’t stubborn. Although he didn't talk much, he can be reasoned with.

"Grab a handful of flour, knead them with egg whites, add a little salt, and stir them into a thick clump. Let them sit first. Your private land is in the back? Are there any vegetables grown? I'll go look and pick them."

"Yes. There are. Go out through the door of the east room." Song Wei Ping took out a bowl from a small cabinet against the wall and replied in a low voice.

Behind the curtain, there was only a small space where one can do preparation like cutting vegetables and making dough. Xu Xiao Jiao followed the door Song Wei Ping pointed to and opened it. She discovered that the east room wasn’t very big. There was a small door facing north. She went out through the small door. As expected, it was Song Wei Ping's family's private plot.

Though the private plot wasn’t big, it was tidy. It was only early spring and there weren’t much vegetables in the plot. Only almost out of season piece of spinach and two rows of green onions were planted at the side of the plot.

Xu Xiao Jiao pulled out two green onions and pinched a handful of spinach. She sighed in her heart. For someone who opened her mouth and waited for food, she became someone who needed to pick the ingredients herself. The reason why she didn't collapse was because of her strong mentality.

Back in the east room, Song Wei Ping had cleaned the pot and was about to light the fire. Xu Xiao Jiao casually ordered, "Heat the pot, put oil in it, put green onions in the hot oil, add water, and bring to a boil."

This was the simplest dough drop soup. Forget about shrimp and Icelandic red ginseng. There wasn’t even minced meat or tomato.

Xu Xiao Jiao sighed silently. What kind of days was this?

She watched Song Wei Ping sitting down by himself, adding firewood, and pouring oil. Completely lacking the demeanor of a bigshot in the future. She cheered up, "I'll help you with the fire."

Once you get rich, don't forget me, brother!

Xu Xiao Jiao merely added a twig to the bottom of the pot. Thinking silently, she felt it was fortunate that she had a hobby of reading recipes every day. In order to be able to eat well, she dabbled in everything, from the fried rice noodles at the roadside stalls to the recipes of the national banquet. Despite never entering the kitchen, she was able to accurately give the chef at home pointers. She was awarded the title of ‘Xu Family's little glutton’.

Maybe, it is considered a talent here? She was able to instruct Song Wei Ping to cook, no? At least she can eat what she wants to eat in the future as long as there are ingredients and she can instruct others to cook it.

Crackle

"Ah!"

Startled, Xu Xiao Jiao stood up and backed away, "Song Wei Ping, what are you doing! Are you trying to blow up the kitchen?"

His approach was definitely wrong. Cooking a meal was like fighting a war!

Seeing her disgusted look, Song Wei Ping raised his eyebrows, "I'll put in green onions."

"When you put chopped green onions, put them in properly. With all that crackling, I thought you were setting off a cannon."

Song Wei Ping deeply stared at her, "You said, put chopped green onion in hot oil."

Xu Xiao Jiao noticed the speechlessness from that gaze. She was about to refute, but paused. Although she had never been in the kitchen, she had gone to school after all. The temperature of the hot oil would exceed 200 degrees. After the green onions were washed, it contained water. Once put in hot oil, en…

Alright, it was right to have ‘crackling' sounds.

Seeing Song Wei Ping's swift action of adding water, she pouted her lips and muttered, "Okay, okay, you did it right."

She touched the corner of her clothes and wanted to sit back as if nothing had happened. However, Song Wei Ping had already sat down before her, "I'll do it. For the rest, you can tell me what to do."

"En, boil the water and put small lumps in it. Once it’s cooked, stir the remaining egg yolks in. Add spinach, salt, light soy sauce; that is, soy sauce; vinegar and sesame oil," she stretched her head toward the seasoning shelf for a look, but there was nothing there. The pitch-black bottle seemed to be soy sauce. "Forget it, just add salt and a little soy sauce for taste."

Song Wei Ping glanced at her. How troublesome. He followed Xu Xiao Jiao's request in silence. He only hoped that after today was over, she would stop those messy thoughts. From then on, the two of them would be the same as before.

In less than ten minutes, the dough drop soup was almost ready. Smelling the aroma in the air, Xu Xiao Jiao's dissatisfaction quelched. After all, this was a soup made under her supervision. It smelled good. The stir-fried spinach should also be good.

"Ping boy, what are you making? It smells so good?"

Xu Xiao Jiao asked, "Grandma woke up?"

Song Wei Ping took out the heated corn pancakes in the bamboo food steamer and replied 'um'.

The voice came from the west. Grandma probably lived in the west room. Xu Xiao Jiao showed a smile on her face, got up, entered the main room, lifted the door curtain to welcome her, "Grandma, I made the dough drop soup. Elder Brother Wei Ping is scooping it now. Come, come. Let’s wash our hands first. We’ll eat it in a moment.”

Song Wei Ping: ... Just saying a few sentences is called make, then you certainly made it.

Xu Xiao Jiao had no psychological burden and was full of confidence. She picked the green onion and the spinach, lit the fire, and gave precise instructions. This soup was definitely made by her.

Grandma Song raised her head and saw a girl with picturesque eyebrows and bright smile coming out to greet her. She was dazed for a moment, "Oh, lass, who are you?"

Grandma Song was in her 60s, but she looked to be in her 70s or 80s. Her white hair was neatly combed and the wrinkles on her face displayed the evidence of suffering in her youth. Even with a cane, she can't walk steadily. Xu Xiao Jiao knew Grandma Song had a bitter life.

Her two sons married wives one after another. The second daughter-in-law gave birth to a son named Song Wei Ping, while Eldest’s wife never conceived a child. A baby was Heaven's will, so the old lady wasn’t in a hurry. Unforeseen, Eldest Son got terminally ill. All the family money was spent, but he couldn’t be saved. His wife had remarried. Second Son went to the quarry to smash rocks. One day, he lost his life. From then on, Second Daughter-in-law became mentally ill. This mental illness gradually manifested into a real illness. Sickly, she lasted until Song Wei Ping was fifteen years old and gave up and passed away.

Leaving behind a grandparent and grandson who were deeply in debt and depended on each other for life. Song Wei Ping's reputation as a calamity star was born like that.

Xu Xiao Jiao didn't dare to think about the hardships Song Wei Ping experienced when he was young. She blinked and jollily helped Grandma Song up the steps, "Grandma, my name is Xu Xiao Jiao. I'm an educated youth from the village's educated youth center. Let's talk while we eat."

A plate of stir-fried spinach, a plate of shredded pickles, a few corn pancakes, and three bowls of emerald green dough drop soup with a scatter of egg yolk.

This early in the morning, she had dismissed Xu Yan Yan and cooked. Xu Xiao Jiao was hungry. She picked up the bowl and took a sip of dough drop soup.

En, this original organic and pollution-free taste was different. The ingredients were simple, but the taste was great.

She took a sip of the soup and grinningly asked, "Grandma, how is it?"

"It's good. It's delicious. Grandma had never had such a delicious soup. It's better than Ping boy's cooking."

How can it not be good? Looking at Xu Xiao Jiao's smug expression, Song Wei Ping thought to himself. There was oil, flour, and egg. If it didn’t taste good, it would be unlogical.

He chewed a soft and fragrant dough drop in his mouth and kept silent as he listened to Xu Xiao Jiao coaxing Grandmother into a smile with a few words.

"It's a small matter. Just say one word and it’s enough. What need is there tol come to cook a meal for Grandma. Oh, these educated people are polite. Ping boy, tomorrow you will accompany Xiao Jiao to town to buy things."

Song Wei Ping kept silent. This in turn aroused Grandmother into patting the table in dissatisfaction, "Did you hear that?"

"En." Song Wei Ping acknowledge in a solemn voice.

Hearing his reluctance, Xiao Jiao wasn’t in angst. She clipped a corn pancake for Grandma and smiled brightly, "Grandmother, Elder Brother Wei Ping is being shy. What is there to be shy about? Besides, he is good-looking. The girls in our educated youth center privately say that Elder Brother Wei Ping is the most handsome person in the village. He should openly go out. Right, Grandma?"

Grandma Song grinned from ear to ear from hearing her grandson being complimented. She felt that Xu Xiao Jiao was pretty and got a sweet mouth. A good girl. Throughout the meal, it was spent in laughter.

Normally, Song Wei Ping and his grandmother would eat in silence when eating. To Song Wei Ping, this kind of relaxation and happiness seemed to never exist in his memory.

When sending Xu Xiao Jiao back to the educated youth center, Song Wei Ping hesitated even more when she asked how his considering went.

"You, you not doing this out of spite toward Han Guang Hui?"

There were only two of them. Xu Xiao Jiao withdrew the enthusiasm and sweetness toward Grandma Song. She rolled her eyes, "That kind of scum, is it worth my anger? Seriously, neither of us intends to get married. But you, you need a wife let Grandma be at ease, and I need a husband to block everyone's mouths. I also know that you owe a lot of debts, I don't mind that you are poor, you don't mind that I am lazy. How perfect it is for the two of us to live together?"

Seeing Song Wei Ping remain silent, Xu Xiao Jiao knew that his heart was moved. She patted him on the arm, "Hey, Song Wei Ping, if you don't speak, I'll take it as you agreeing by default."

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ESWHYMY 73

Chapter 73. Decline


You Jin was caught off guard by this unprecedented news. She showed a helpless smile: "Mom, I'm only twelve. Isn’t it too early for you to worry about it?" One must know that she was twenty-eight and a single dog in her previous life. Was this life going to make up for being single for too long in her previous life?

"You will have your thirteenth birthday at the beginning of the year. How could it be too early?" Mrs. Su rolled her eyes, "That He Family’s eldest son will be sixteen this year. You aren’t in a rush but many people are!" Mrs. Su seemed to regard He Xuan Hai as a wealthy son-in-law.

It was only then that You Jin realized that things were going in a strange direction. She quickly stopped Mrs. Su’s words: "Mother, I don't want to marry."

Seeing Mrs. Su’s petrified expression, she quickly rephrased: "At least not in these few years. If I marry someone, then I will be someone else’s wife. I have seven younger sisters and Kang-er. What will happen to you guys?”

"It's not like you’re getting married now. We can set the matter now and get married when you reach of-age!" Mrs. Su argued in a low voice. She didn't think about the family’s situation only getting better until her daughter mentioned it. In the end, the children were still young. If they were without You Jin, it would be difficult in the future: "We can’t drag you down because of us, right?"

You Jin stared straight at Mrs. Su and seriously stated: "Mother, listen to me. I was the one who led our family from Cuifeng Village to Wuliqiao. It’s my responsibility to bring up my younger sisters. Only when my younger sisters have a good home, can I feel at ease."

Hearing what she said, Mrs. Su sighed deeply: "You are still young, so naturally you don't know the importance of marrying a good husband. Mother has experienced more. So mother can't let you do things wilfully!"

"Now our family had earned such a large family business in less than a year. In two or three years, we can multiply it a few times. Wouldn't it be better to discuss marriage by then than now?" You Jin pointed out another fact. Their family was much better than He Family now. In two or three years, they will definitely make a fortune: "That’s why raise head when marrying out a daughter, lower head when marrying in a daughter-in-law. It can’t be that Mother wants me to marry down?"

It wasn’t that You Jin looked down on He Family, but the difficulty of the imperial examination was really great: "There were too many people who are Xiucai in their forties and fifties. So what if he, He Xuan Hai, is still a Tongsheng until he is forty or fifty years old? Tongsheng, am I to bear it out with him for the rest of my life?"

Hearing that You Jin didn’t hesitate to curse the other party failing the exam in order to reject this marriage, Mrs. Su was disgruntledly amused. Then she gave her an eye roll: "You are the only one who is so reasonable!"

Still, she accepted what her daughter said: "But since you don't want to, I won't force you. It's just a pity. Xuan Hai is such a good boy!"

In fact, Mrs. Su can’t be blamed for being like this. After all, He Xuan Hai was indeed the best son-in-law candidate she had come into contact with so far in her life. It was a pity that she just missed it for nothing.

Mrs. Zhao didn’t expect Su Family to reject this marriage. After hearing Mrs. Su tactful words, the smile on Mrs. Zhao's face faded a bit. Still, on the surface, she responded: "Indeed. This child is still young. It’s not too late to check around again in a few years.”

Both parties absent-mindedly talked for a while before Mrs. Zhao found a reason to go home. After seeing off Mrs. Zhao, Mrs. Su worriedly asked You Jin: "It seems a grudge has been formed?"

"No, it will be fine when Auntie Zhao’s mind turns around. Besides, we didn't agree to this marriage, did we?" You Jin didn’t think it was a big deal. After all, the layer of paper on the window wasn’t poke through. However, she warned Mrs. Su in advance: "However, if such a thing happens again in the future, Mother can't set it without telling us. If the marriage is forced, no matter who it is, they will blame Mother in the future!"

Hearing the threat in her daughter's words, Mrs. Su didn't find it was unfilial. She nodded slightly: "I understand."

Falling flowers were affectionate, flowing water had no intention. The unpoked window paper silently turned over. At first, Mrs. Zhao felt a little disdain. After all, her most proud son was rejected. This matter was infuriating to her.

Later, it was He Hao who unknotted her with a few words: "The marriage between a man and a woman is based on affection and consent, isn't it? Oh, if you must force the other’s consent, then you should stop selling buns. Instead, it would be better to be a bandit, no?" He Hao did find it a pity in his heart. After all, You Jin was indeed good. Since it can’t be set now, his own son won’t have any chance in the future.

After hearing his teasing, Mrs. Zhao rolled her eyes at him in irk: "You are the bandit!"

But the knot in her heart had disappeared. Family Head was right. The two families haven't started checking the other yet. Fortunately, this wasn’t brought to the surface. Let the past be the past!

***

During the first month, needlework wasn't allowed. Su Family didn’t have any relatives to visit. Su Family’s sisters read books and practice calligraphy at home every day. They nurtured and recuperated until the eighth day of the New Year. Only then Su Family’s snack shop reopened. After being lazy for several days, Su Family became busy again.

It was still the New Year period. There were quite a few people who came to buy snacks. On the first day of resumption of business, it was busy to the point that the feets didn’t stop moving. It wasn’t until sunset when the newly baked red bean paste pancakes were sold out did everyone dragged their exhausted bodies onto the mule cart and went back.

"After being lazy for a few days, we come back so busy that we almost lose our heads. It's really too much!" Sitting on the mule cart, she grinningly thumped her arms: "But if we are so busy every day, it’s not bad!”

That’s because You Jin gave them bonuses according to the sales of snacks. The busier they were, the better the business was. The better the business, the more money they could get!

"Earn more money to buy flowers and wear them?" The few girls giggled and laughed. Completely in joy.

At night, after little Sixth and little Seventh had all fallen asleep, You Jin sat alone by the candlelight after coming out of the bath and entered today's income into the account. Then she locked up the money, laid on the hot kang with her back on the pillow and hands behind the back of her head. She had been calculating non-stop. At an unknown time, she fell asleep. When she woke up again, the sky outside was already bright.

She gently covered little Sixth and little Seventh who were still asleep and changed her clothes quietly. She combed and tied two buns with a lotus-colored hair band. Then she tiptoed out of the east wing. Standing at the door, she embraced the hit of winter morning coldness. She let out a puff of breath and the cold drove away the sleepiness.

"Eldest Miss, it's time for breakfast." Dou Kou and Cao Guo were in charge of making breakfast today. Seeing You Jin freezing in the corridor, they hurriedly invited her in.

After breakfast, Han Li drove the mule cart and sent everyone into the city. In the rickety mule cart, You Jin told them what she had planned last night: "A few days will be the Lantern Festival. There will be a lantern festival in Luohe Prefecture. On that day our shop will also be open until night. We will hang up a few lanterns for guessing riddles. It will definitely attract many customers."

Hearing about the lanterns, the few girls were very excited. Bai Zhi, who had seen the lanterns before, merrily spoke, "Lanterns! When I was young, I followed my parents to the town to see the lanterns once. It was beautiful!"

"I haven't even seen a lantern yet!" The few girls bought by Su Family were all children from poor families. Of course, not all of them had the experience of going to the town to watch lanterns like Bai Zhi. For most of them, it was more bitter suffering.

Seeing the few’s heavy hearts and the longing in the eyes of the two younger sisters, You Jin grinned: "How about this? On the day of Lantern Festival, we will close the door and watch the lanterns together as long as our pastries are sold out. What do you think?"

Hearing what You Jin said, everyone nodded in delight. They all began to look forward to the upcoming Lantern Festival.

***

Now Sujiaxiang's shop was basically fully staffed. In the back kitchen, You Zhu and You Yin were in charge of piecing together the recipe and mixing the ingredients. □□, Bai Zhi, Dou Kou, and Cao Guo were responsible for kneading the dough and putting it into molds. The front of the house was You Jin leading Xin Yi and Ding Xiang in welcoming customers and selling snack. They cooperated very well.

After the first scent wafted from Sujiaxiang's back kitchen, guests came to the door. Now Xin Yi and Ding Xiang were very proficient. They can wrap the snacks that customers want to buy in a moment. Then they hand the collected money to You Jin at the counter and send the guests away with a smile: "Go slowly, Madam. Come back after enjoying it!"

In the afternoon, when there were fewer visitors, You Jin took off the kerchief wrapped around her head and told You Yin to watch the shop front. She put on the working lotus-colored padded jacket and went outside.

Broker Chen, who was drowsy after lunch, saw a somewhat familiar figure. He hurriedly raised his spirit and greeted the visitor: "Su Family’s girl! Long time no see, how's the business going?"

"Thanks to Uncle Chen, everything is going well." After greeting Broker Chen with a smile, You Jin spoke, "Uncle Chen, can we talk in another place?"

Broker Chen knew Su You Jin. Since she came to him, there must be another business coming. So he brought her into the tea room and poured her a cup of steaming fragrant tea: "Miss Su, do you want to buy a shop or land this time round?”

After drinking a sip of fragrant tea to drive away the cold, You Jin explained the purpose of her visit: "I want to buy some more fertile land nearby. Preferably not far from Houjiawan. By the way, I would like to ask if there was any suitable wasteland near the official road. I want to buy some too."

Hearing what she said, the remaining sleepiness in Broker Chen's mind disappeared. He hurriedly answered in mirth: "There are some. It depends on how big the land you want. Then I can help you to ask the price.”

“Quality land, about 20 mu. As for the wasteland, as long as it was close to the official road, about 50 mu is suitable." This was the final decision that You Jin made after calculating the family's money.

"There is really a piece of land in Houjiawan. Just across the river from the one you bought last time, Miss Su. The land is in a good location. The price is right, but the seller said they would sell 40 mu together... ..." Broker Chen said with some hesitation. Then he glanced at You Jin's expression to see if there was anything unusual.

You Jin's expression was normal. She calmly asked: "I wonder how much the owner asked for?" Although forty mu was a bit much, all the savings of Su Family now add up to nearly one thousand liang. They can still afford this amount of money.

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WLAEF 2.2

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"Father, Mother, I think we should move. More accurately fleeing from disaster." Jiang Yun Zhu’s words were surprising.

"Move? Where will we move to?" Mrs. Chen subconsciously refused. She knew the pain of being displaced. At that time, she and old Father Chen fled to Jinniu Village. After finally taking root here, she didn't want to leave here.

Jiang Yun Zhu turned to Jiang Cheng. She felt that he would support her.

Yes, Jiang Cheng understood the reasons. A tree moves, it dies; a person moves, it’s alive.

He discussed with Mrs. Chen in a hushed voice- if there was another drought next year, they will definitely not be able to hold on. Even if there was no drought, their life will certainly not be easy.

It was already autumn, but there was no sign of rain at all. Jiang Cheng felt that there was a high chance of drought next year.

The more Mrs. Chen listened, the redder her eyes became. She knew that Jiang Cheng was right.

By evening, Jiang Family had reached an agreement that they were going to move.

"Pack up. Let's head out these two days." Jiang Cheng declared.

"These two days?" Jiang Yun Zhu didn't expect Jiang Cheng to be in such a hurry.

Jiang Cheng responded, "It's already autumn. It's going to get colder and colder. We better find a place to stay before winter begins." Otherwise, they’ll freeze to death if there's no roof to cover them in the cold weather.

This was reasonable. Jiang Yun Zhu understood.

Jiang Family immediately got busy and prepared to leave Changfeng.

As for where to go, they wanted to go south. First, there was a lot of rain in the south. Second, the temperature became warmer as they headed south. This was the same direction as they fled in the dream.

The very same night, Jiang Cheng repaired the cart at home.

Mrs. Chen packed up the things at home.

Jiang Yun Zhu helped her.

In fact, there was nothing much to pack. In the past two years of disasters, the family had sold everything that could be sold. Now there were only some broken tables and the likes that no one wanted, which can’t be brought along.

"Elder Sister, do you want to bring this thing?" Jiang Lin asked Jiang Yun Zhu as she held up a broken clay pot.

"Not bringing." Jiang Yun Zhu firmly replied.

Jiang Lin turned to run off.

"Elder Sister, what about this one?" Jiang Yun Xue asked Jiang Yun Zhu while holding a tattered bundle wrap.

Jiang Yun Zhu examined the bundle wrap. One would disdain it even when used as a rag. But now…

"Bring," she answered. At least it was a piece of cloth. In case it was too cold on the road, they could use it as a cushion to sit on or something.

Jiang Yun Xue happily folded the tattered bundle wrap carefully like a treasure.

Even Jiang Wu helped out. The children busied away like fire reaching for the sky.

Mrs. Chen watched from the side, feeling both relieved and worried.

They worked away until dark before everyone ate and rested.

Early the next morning, Jiang Cheng got up early and went to the town to buy food, which they’ll eat on the road. All he bought was sorghum rice. These days, the price of rice had skyrocketed. How can poor people possibly afford rice in these times? They all bought this kind of grain. This kind of grain was rough and difficult to swallow. It used to be used to make wine. Now, having anything to eat was good enough.

He bought fifty jins of sorghum rice, which cost him five hundred wen.

The price had risen too fast. He felt more and more certain about leaving here.

Mrs. Chen went to the village to inquire about the situation, to see which way was easier to travel and if they want to leave Changfeng, do they need to go to the county government office to arrange a guide.

Only after she inquired about it did she know that some in the village had already fled.

Most of them also went south, but the road they took was different. The people in the village didn't know which road was good. After all, only those who have walked knew and they never came back.

As for the road guide, someone had once asked. The county yamen didn’t arrange it at all. And if it wasn’t handled well, it might anger old Master Official and get arrested. After all, so many people want to leave Changfeng. If the higher-ups find out, the official's black hat may not be kept.

If one wants to leave, they can only go secretly.

At noon, the family got together again and discussed what they had gathered. They became more determined to leave here.

After eating, Mrs. Chen immediately became occupied. She wanted to mix the sorghum rice with rice bran to make pancakes for them to eat on the way.

Jiang Yun Zhu took out all the brined veg left in the pickling jar and cut them into shreds. These were also for on the road.

Her speed was very fast. Within a short while, six or seven brined veg turned into thin shredded brined veg.

There was still some sesame oil at home. This was reserved for the New Year. Now it was no longer of use, she poured it all into the pickles.

After finishing this, she went to prepare water. Now that there was a drought everywhere, water was a precious thing.

Initially, there was a well in Jiang's yard. But like most of the wells in the village, it had run out of water now. To get water, one can only go to the well at the head of the village. That well was deep.

Jiang Yun Zhu and Jiang Lin lined up for half an hour and brought back two buckets of water.

The water was muddy yellow.

Jiang Yun Zhu frowned. Was this drinkable?

"It can be drunk after leaving it overnight." In the kitchen, Mrs. Chen noticed this and spoke. As for boiling, they didn't even have firewood for cooking, so how can they boil it?

"Burn the tables, benches, and beds at home. Better boil the water to drink, otherwise what to do if we get sick?" Jiang Yun Zhu said.

Mrs. Chen’s jaw dropped in surprise. Burn the table and bed? How could this do... But after thinking about it, they were about to leave here. It seemed that there was nothing wrong with it.

Jiang Cheng and Mrs. Chen had started from scratch. They accumulated all the things in the house one by one. Such as the bed, which they bought when they got married. And the table, which Jiang Cheng asked someone to make when she gave birth to Jiang Yun Zhu.

Each and every thing contained her memory. But now they were going to be burned...

Mrs. Chen remained silent. She knew that this time they have to burn their boat and bet all the house on one hand.. She was very scared, but with her family by her side, she didn't seem to be afraid. And, she had to be strong to protect her children from wind and rain.

Jiang Yun Zhu looked at the two buckets of water, but thought of one thing. Right now they can boil the water to drink. But what about on the road? The water could be worse than this. Maybe she should prepare for this in advance.

After thinking about it, she decided to make a filter to avoid drinking dirty water as much as possible.

This filter was very simple. It consisted of charcoal, pebbles, gravel, and cotton cloth.

Jiang Lin and the others had nothing to do. Seeing what she was doing was very interesting, they all surrounded her to watch.

Jiang Yun Zhu asked them to help. The tasks of washing the stones and scrubbing the jar was assigned among them. Soon, a vase-shaped filter was ready.

The bucket of water was poured into the vase.

A trickle flows from the bottom of the vase. It was crystal clear.

The three children were all attracted by this miraculous scene. While Jiang Yun Zhu had some confidence in her heart. It worked.

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ESWHYMY 72

Chapter 72. New Year's greetings


On the morning of the next day, the normally bustling courtyard of Su Family at an early time only started to liven up when the sky was bright. Although Su Family had no roots in Luohe Prefecture , no relatives to visit, and no ancestral hall to worship, Dafeng always had the custom of waking up early on the first day of the Lunar New Year. The meaning was that those who get up early can work hard, make a fortune in the new year, and get rich.

The children of Su Family also knew the custom of getting up early on the first day of the new year. But when they were in Cuifeng Village, the first day of the new year was the time when the sisters get beaten every year. All of them received a severe beating. Although no one will come to beat them this year, they all got up early and changed into new clothes. Then they lined up to kowtow to Mrs. Su to ask for new year's money.

"Mother, wish you a prosperous new year and good health." You Jin and You Yin led the younger sisters in two rows, properly knelt down, and kowtowed three times to Mrs. Su. Even little Eighth and Kang-er were held by □□ and Bai Zhi and kowtowed.

Sitting at the top, Mrs. Su looked at the children who were wearing new clothes. All the daughters had changed from sallow and thin appearance to fair and lovely. Her eyes couldn't help but turn slightly red: "Oh! Get up. The ground is cold!"

Sniffing, she suppressed the tears that were about to overflow. She handed out the New Year's money that she had prepared a long time ago to the daughters who raised their hands for the New Year's money: "Be obedient and sensible. Eat more this year and grow bigger."

After Su Family’s girls finished paying New Year greetings to Su Family, Yu Lan led Xin Yi, □□, and others to kneel down in two rows: "New Year greetings to Madam and all the misses."

"Teacher, what are you doing?" You Jin hurried forward to help Yu Lan up. However, Yu Lan slightly pushed her away: "Miss, this bow is what Yu Lan should have done a long time ago."

If it wasn't for Su Family, whether she could be full and warm would be a different matter. She was an official slave, so she can only be a lowly person her whole life. But since she entered the gate of Su Family, everyone in Su Family respected her as a teacher. It was like the grace of second life. Due to this, she should have done this a long time ago.

Seeing her insistence, You Jin could only take a few steps back. After receiving a half-bow from Yu Lan, she hurriedly helped her up. Mrs. Su distributed the new year money prepared in advance to all the girls one by one: "Save the money. A girl should have some assets."

"Yes, Madam." □□ and the others merrily replied. On New Year's Eve, You Jin had distributed the bonuses that everyone had worked hard for over the last several months. □□ and the others who made snacks in the kitchen got two liang. In the front line, Xin Yi and the others who greeted the guests got less. But there was one liang. Plus the two months' salaries they had received before, the little maids had some money in their hands. They were all overjoyed.

Su Family didn't need to worship their ancestors. After kowtowing to Mrs. Su to pay New Year's greetings, there were children from the village who came to pay New Year's greetings and ask for snacks: "New Year's greetings to Auntie Su!"

"Oh! Get up. The ground is cold!" Mrs. Su jollily stood up and came over with a bamboo basket filled with melon seeds and snacks: "Quickly grab some back to eat!"

Su Family’s snacks being delicious have already been spread among the children of Wuliqiao. Seeing Mrs. Su being so generous, the little girls felt a little embarrassed at first. You Bao hurriedly whispered: "It's okay. We still have it at home. Take it!"

It turned out that the first group of children who came to visit for New Year's greetings were the little girls who often played with You Bao. Seeing You Bao saying that, the little girls shyly smiled and grabbed some melon seeds and put them in their pockets. Seeing how meek children were, Mrs. Su reached out and grabbed a couple handfuls and stuffed them into their pockets. After the New Year greetings, the little girls made an arrangement with You Bao to play together in a few days before happily leaving.

Sending away the group of children who came to pay New Year's greetings to Su Family, Mrs. Su family called You Jin to bring the few younger sisters to Lizheng's house to pay New Year's greetings: "Lizheng and your Auntie Zhao takes good care of our family. Kowtow them later, understood?"

"Don't worry, Mother. We understand." You Jin held little Seventh’s hand. Chatting and laughing, she walked towards the east of the river with the few younger sisters. Xiao Hei and Da Huang followed the seven sisters. Two large wolfhounds with shiny coats and thick fangs looked extraordinarily majestic in the bright winter sun. As well as scary.

"Eldest Sister You Jin, your family’s two big dogs won’t go crazy and bite people, right?" Two little girls about seven or eight years old leaned against the houses on the side of the road and stared at the big wolfdogs next to Su sisters. A little scared and a little bit curious, they asked.

You Jin snapped her fingers to beckon Xiao Hei. Then she patted Xiao Hei's head and smilingly assured, "As long as you don't provoke it, it won't bite."

Only then did the little girl put down her guard, and cheerfully walked away.

Most of the villagers in Wuliqiao Village fled here in troubled times and took root here. However, in just 20 to 30 years, the ancestors of the villagers weren’t the same. Therefore, most of the villagers just worship their ancestors before eating New Year's Eve dinner at home.

There was no ancestral hall to open on the first day of the new year. The children in the village were dressed up (at least better than usual) and ran around to pay New Year's greetings to the elders in the neighborhood. Many of them were picking up some last night's firecrackers that weren’t lit and set them off. The sound of laughter and firecrackers was endless. It added a lot of vitality to the bleak winter day.

The whole, they greeted the villagers. After walking a while, they arrived at Lizheng's house. The door of He Family was open today, because there were too many people who came to pay New Year's greetings. So Mrs. Zhao directly left the door open. Seeing that the door was open, You Jin led her younger sisters into He's yard.

He Xiao Ning, who was standing in the corridor, saw You Jin and the others. She hurriedly greeted them in delight: "Elder Sister You Jin! You Bao!"

"Happy New Year, Xiao Ning. Where are your parents?" You Jin smilingly asked as she stroked her little head with two braids. After getting the answer, she led little Seventh across the threshold and entered the main house of He's house.

"You Jin (You Yin, You Zhu...) wished Lizheng and Auntie Zhao give New Year's greeting." She led her younger sisters to properly kneel down and then respectfully kowtowed three times.

Mrs. Zhao, who was sitting on the kang, hurriedly stood up and helped her up: “Enough, enough. On such a cold day, your mother is willing to let you come out. Little Seventh is blushing from the cold. Come here quickly and warm up."

After finishing speaking, she picked up little Seventh, who was in a pink cotton padded jacket embroidered with patterns of auspicious clouds, and sat down on the kang. Then she grabbed a handful of peanuts and melon seeds and stuffed them into little Seventh's hands: "Little Seventh, quickly eat some snacks before we talk.”

You Jin sisters also stood up. Today, Su Family sisters were dressed a bit similarly. They were all dressed in red on top and white on the bottom. The skirts were embroidered with butterfly patterns. While walking, these butterflies seemed to fly up and down.

Looking at the large group of little girls who were once all sallow and thin when they first moved here in spring last year, He Hao couldn't help feeling that the old and weak women and children of Su Family were really capable. Thinking of what his wife said the night before, this marriage could work if Su Family really had such intentions.

At the moment, He Xuan Hai, who was studying in the study room, was dragged out by Xiao Ning who received a heavy responsibility and entered the main room: "Father, Mother." After respectfully giving a scholar’s salute, he turned to Su Family’s sister: "Who are these?"

"Xuan Hai, these are Su Family’s sisters that Mother often mentioned to you!" Mrs. Zhao merrily introduced both sides: "You Jin, this was my eldest son who was studying in Luohe Prefecture, Xuan Hai."

"Eldest Brother He." Glancing at the young man in a scholar's green shirt, You Jin politely performed a female courtesy.

Xuan Hai had heard about You Jin's deeds. He had thought she would be a vulgar country girl. Unexpectedly, it turned out to be a girl with bright eyes and bright teeth. This graceful figure was even more attractive than the girls in Luohe Prefecture. For a while, he was a little dazed. He stood still on the spot like a statue.

"Eldest Brother, Elder Sister You Jin had greeted you!" He Xiao Ning who was on the side looked at the most well-behaved eldest brother being dazed. So she tugged at his loose sleeves and called him in a low voice.

Only then did He Xuan Hai come back to his senses. A suspicious blush appeared on his face before he returned an equal bow: "Miss Su."

Seeing her son's hopeless reaction, Mrs. Zhao couldn't help showing a teasing smile. However, she still tried to save face for her son: "Xuan Hai, You Jin is three years younger than you. You will have to take care of her in the future. Don't bully her!"

Although he didn't know what Mother meant by this, He Xuan Hai still respectfully replied ‘Yes’. After talking a bit, someone came to He’s house to pay New Year's greetings. So You Jin took the opportunity to bid goodbye with her younger sisters and went back to the west of the river.

Back to He Family's side. After seeing off wave after wave of New Year's greetings, Mrs. Zhao whispered to He Hao: "Family Head, did you see how Xuan Hai looked standing with You Jin today? Is it like the golden boy and jade girl sitting down by Guanyin Bodhisattva?”

He Hao took a puff of tobacco. He neither agreed or disagreed. Just stated: "I don't think You Jin knows about this matter. Go to find out what Su Family had said in two days. If Su Family nods, then let’s brign this matter out to the open and set the matter!”

Mrs. Zhao didn’t expect that Family Head, who was opposed at the beginning, to turn around and agree today. Delighted, she acknowledged: "I will go to Su’s house in two days and ask again!"

***

He Family nearly treated You Jin as their daughter-in-law, but on You Jin’s side, she didn't know it yet.

Seeing her daughters come back, Mrs. Su, who was sitting on the kang teasing crawling Kang-er and little Eighth, asked, "Why did you come back so soon?"

"A lot of people went to Lizheng's family to pay New Year's greetings. We kowtowed and came back after talking for a while." You Jin helped little Seventh take off her thick cotton jacket before taking a sip of the hot tea handed over by Xin Yi. Only then, she steadily spoke.

Seeing her daughter's expression being the same as usual, Mrs. Su was a little disappointed: "Did you see the rest of your Auntie Zhao's family during your visit?"

"I met Xiao Ning's brother, what was her name Xuan Hai?" You Jin didn't have any other feelings for the goose-like He Xuan Hai who blushed when he saw a girl. Only impression was that he was dumb.

"Then what do you think of Xuan Hai?" Mrs. Su eagerly wanted to get to the bottom of this matter: "I've heard that Xuan Hai is already a Tongsheng at sixteen. He has a bright future ahead!"

"Having a bright future is their business. Why are you so agitated?" Sitting on the kang and making little Eighth giggle, You Jin became amused.

At this time, only Mrs. Su, You Jin, and ignorant little Seventh were in the main room. Mrs. Su thought about what Yu Lan said that day. She recounted what Mrs. Zhao had said before: "Then He Family’s Eldest Son is good. What do you think?"

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ESWHYMY 71

Chapter 71. New Year’s Eve


"It's been one month and twenty-two days since our snack shop opened. We've earned a total of five hundred and three liang!" In the dead of night, Mrs. Su, You Yin, You Zhu, You Bao, and You Jin were sitting in Su Family’s main room. You Jin whispered to the four of them the results of the last few days’ accounting: "Among them, forty-seven liang were from selling fragrant melon seeds. The remaining four hundred and fifty-six liang were earned by our snack shop!"

"So much!" Not only the children, but even Mrs. Su was dumbfounded: "You Jin, did you calculate correctly? Our family really made so much money?"

Mrs. Su couldn’t imagine this. It turned out that her little skill can make so much money.

The four children also looked shocked: "Five hundred liang! So much silver!"

You Yin and You Zhu were working alongside You Jin every day, so they naturally knew that they were making money. But they didn’t expect to earn this much money. Fast-thinking You Zhu thought: "Eldest Sister, how about we open another shop next year?"

Seeing that everyone was so shocked, You Jin grinned: "Although we earned more than five hundred liang, we spent almost two hundred liang to buy the shop and the labor. After cutting this off, there’s not much left. If we rush to open another shop again, money and manpower are problems. If we go too far, we will have problems."

"I've already figured it out. Our house will have to be rebuilt when spring comes. Not only do we have so many people in the house, we sisters need a room for each of us, don't we?"

You Jin didn’t plan to keep this sum. Rebuilding the house and buying more land all cost money.

When they heard that they could have their own room, the sisters were very excited. They didn't even have their own room when they grew up! So they chattered and began to suggest ideas to You Jin: "Eldest Sister, then we need a big kitchen!"

"Yes, we need a yard. And there are peach blossoms on the mountain behind. We can plant some peach blossoms!"

"Okay, okay. The more you talk, the happier you are. Go to bed early. Tomorrow is New Year's Eve." Mrs. Su smilingly calmed her daughters who were about to jump up.

You Jin nodded: "We'll start choosing a site to build a house after the spring thawing after the New Year."

After discussing with Mrs. Su mother and daughter for a while, she came out of the main room and went back to the east wing to sleep.

***

In the early morning of New Year's Eve, continuous firecrackers sounded from nowhere. After stretching her waist, You Jin climbed up from the warm kang. She saw figures swaying outside through the bright paper pasted on the window. It turned out to be Su Family’s little girls playing in the yard.

"Ah! Third Elder Sister, don't throw the firecrackers at me!" You Bao, who was being chased by You Zhu with the firecrackers, kept screaming while dodging. The younger ones happily followed behind the two of them. The sound of laughter chimed in the yard. The snow-white house seemed to be full of vitality and very lively.

You Zhu, who was sweating slightly from running, lit a firecracker and quickly threw it beside You Bao. The firecracker wasn’t very powerful. Still, it made You Bao scream. Seeing a savior come out, she hurried over: "Eldest Sister, Third Elder Sister is bullying me!"

"Su You Bao, aren’t you ashamed? You can't run, so you ask Eldest Sister for help!" You Zhu made a cheeky face at You Bao. Her cheeks were rosy. Truly full of energy.

You Jin reassuringly patted You Bao's shoulder and grinned: "Alright, you’re all sweating from running. Go in quickly and get a handkerchief to dry off. If you get sick during the New Year, you can't take medicine. Then you’ll have to suffer."

At Eldest Sister’s words, the children obediently went in to wipe off their sweat. Look at Younger Sisters who were all dressed in thick clothes and had grown up a lot after a year of eating and drinking. They bloomed a lot. Each and every one of them looked like little beauties. You Jin only felt a sense of accomplishment in her heart.

After wiping off the sweat and drinking some hot soup to ward out the cold, it was time for Su sisters to study again. According to Yu Lan's arrangement, Su sisters had an hour each in the morning and afternoon to study. Even on New Year's Eve, there was no day off. They still have to learn what they should learn.

Though Su Family sisters started to attend classes, Xin Yi, Shan Nai and others weren’t idle. They were going to prepare tonight's New Year's Eve dinner.

Su Family had a lot of people celebrating the New Year this year. So You Jin bought a new year pig from a family in Wuliqiao. After killing it, some was given to Mrs. Su to make smoked bacon and two hams. The rest were all frozen and eaten slowly. Plus, there was the cabbage and potatoes that can be stored at home. The chickens that have been raised for a year can also be eaten. You Jin had also bought one mutton rib cage in Luohe Prefecture. There was no worry about whether New Year's Eve dinner would be bountiful or not.

Now Mrs. Su didn’t have to do it herself. Still, she was used to cooking for her daughters. So she told Xin Yi to watch over the two little ones and started preparing for the New Year's Eve dinner in an orderly manner with the five maids in the kitchen.

Su Family's New Year's Eve dinner this year wasn’t too small. There were Su Family’s ten members and seven maids including Yu Lan. Plus Uncle Wang and Han Li's two brothers, there were exactly twenty people attending New Year's Eve dinner. Mrs. Su decided to prepare six dishes and one soup. Each dish was a big pot full. That way, there was fear of not being full.

On New Year's Eve, the weather was pretty good the whole day. As the sun was setting, You Jin took a few younger sisters and pasted up the couplets outside Su Family’s courtyard. Then she stood at the door of Su’s house and looked at Wuliqiao Village on the other side of the river. There was also smoke curling up from the kitchens. A faint golden light shrouds the vast land. The snow-covered land in the distance was also golden. From time to time, there were a few dogs barking, children’s playful laughter, and the on and off sound of firecrackers.

Breathing out a breath of turbid air, it turned into a white mist in an instant before disappearing. You Jin turned around, entered the house, and closed the half-old wooden door to hide the warmth of the room from outsiders’ view.

The new year’s eve dinner was held in Mrs. Su main room. The sky was slightly darkened. After Bai Zhi brought the last bamboo shoot and chicken soup to the table, You Jin jollily picked up the teacup in her hand: "Today's New Year's Eve, I will replace wine with tea and thank you everyone’s hard work this year. I hope that next year we can work together to earn more money, eat better food, and live in a bigger house!"

After listening to You Jin's words, everyone in the brightly lit main room cheere, "Yes! Earn more money!"

They also stood up with a clatter and toasted with tea instead of wine.

Uncle Wang was the only one who drank alcohol. You Jin specially brought back half a jin of quality Zhuyeqing for Uncle Wang to enjoy. After happily drinking a bowl of wine, Uncle Wang laughed: "I'm already old. Money doesn't matter. I'll be satisfied if I can drink better wine next year!"

"Okay! I will get you better wine next year!" You Jin responded with great enthusiasm. Then she announced: "Everyone pick up your chopsticks. If you wait any longer, it will be cold!"

Su Family’s New Year’s Eve dinner was rich and delicious. The kang was so burning that it even made the whole house very hot. Everyone’s mouths were covered in oil as their bodies felt cosy. This meal took a whole half an hour to finish, leaving only leftovers on the table.

After the meal, Uncle Wang couldn't win against the alcohol. So he went back to the canal worker’s dormitory to rest. Only Han Li brothers were left to watch the new year with everyone in Su’s house.

"You Zhu, you take Er Hua and the others to the storeroom to take out the firecrackers and fireworks that were bought a few days ago and light them for fun!" Standing under the eaves of the porch looking at the clear starry sky, You Jin smiled and found something fun for the bored children.

Sure enough, after hearing You Jin’s, the children cheered and went to the storeroom. Only the older ones like You Jin stood on the porch and watched.

"It's been half a year since you came to our house, are you accustomed to it?" You Jin and Han Li stood side by side a few steps away, watching the children in the courtyard. She merrily asked.

Han Li was a person of few words. He only replied with an ‘en’ and didn't say anything else. You Jin wasn’t angry at all. She jollily said: "At first, I didn't want you to come to my house. I don't know your background. You were defensive and have attack power. But You Yin can't stand seeing you suffering, so she begged me for a long time."

Amused, she shook her head, "I can't do anything with her either."

This was the first time Han Li heard the origin of him coming to Su’s house. It turned out that she had pleaded for him! Seeing the laughing figure in lavender clothes in the courtyard, Han Li's eyes were full of gratitude.

"Forget it. This is all in the past. Since you have come to my Su’s house, you can just stay there. If you want to leave someday, please tell us in advance." You Jin sighed. She leisurely continued: "After all, there is friendship, right?"

Han Li and his younger brother didn’t sell themselves to Su Family. If they want to leave, they can do it at any time.

"I won't go." How rare, Han Li expressed his stance. Seeing his response, You Jin just smiled lightly and didn't make any comments.

The New Year's Eve countdown was til midnight. Children seldom made it to this point. After playing until ten pm, they all start to get sleepy and want to go to bed. After carefully covering the younger sisters who were sleeping in a row with warm quilts, You Jin quietly exited Mrs. Su's room and came into the hall. At this time, Mrs. Su was whispering to Yu Lan. Seeing that she came out, they immediately shut up.

Seeing them like this, You Jin didn't say anything. She went out of the main room and back to her own room. She picked up an old book that was about to fall apart, went back to the main room to sit by the candle, and read it with relish.

Back to Yu Lan listening to Mrs. Su words. Instead, of having a happy face like Mrs. Su, Yu Lan frowned and shook her head instead: "Madam, you'd better ask Eldest Miss about this matter first. In my opinion, the two are not compatible."

"What? Do you think that You Jin isn’t good enough for He Family’s Eldest Son?" Hearing what she said, Su thought that Yu Lan felt that her family reached for a high branch like He Family, "Although He Family’s Eldest Son is currently a Tongsheng, but our You Jin isn’t much worse than him! Our current family business is much better than He Family’s, no?"

"Madam, it's not us climbing a higher branch. I think it's He Family who climbed the higher branch. Eldest Miss crawled out of your stomach. Naturally, you know her mind and ability the best. Let’s not talk about anything else and just Su Family’s future matter. Our family’s current situation is all built by Eldest Miss’s bare hands. Looking at the whole Dafeng, is there any girl at the age of twelve or thirteen who has such great ability?” In Yu Lan’s view, He Family's son was just a little Tongsheng. Not to mention the capital city, one can pick a field of them in Luohe Prefecture. However, the whole Dafeng, one can't find another person like her family’s Miss! Naturally, it was He Family climbing to their Su Family’s higher branch.

Yu Lan glanced at You Jin, who was sitting a little distance from the two of them and said in a hushed voice: "Eldest Miss is one with her own idea. If you set it without asking her, in the future when Eldest Miss finds out, she’ll be displeased. And due to this matter, family becomes enemies!"

Hearing what she said, Mrs. Su sighed. She understood Yu Lan’s rationality. You Jin had always been one with her own mind since little. If she directly arranged a marriage that You Jin didn't like, they might really end up as enemies. She responded: "You are right. I’ll discuss it with her tomorrow!"

In the main room, Shan Nai and other young girls were talking and laughing while eating melon and fruit snacks. It was very lively, You Jin focused on the book. So she really didn't hear what Mrs. Su and Yu Lan were whispering.

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WLAEF 2.1

Still, several days left to vote for the next side project on Patreon!

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Long after Jiang Yun Xiu left, Mrs. Chen was still standing at the gate, as if she could wait for her to come back this way.

Jiang Yun Zhu knew she was sad and didn't bother her.

The sun was slightly slanting. Autumn sun that shone on people was warm. Jiang Yun Zhu looked up. Seeing the high sky and calm clouds, her heart instantly opened up. This long-lost sense of freedom really made people extremely happy.

That’s right. Jiang Yun Zhu didn't miss the life in the Marquis Anping Manor at all. Including her husband Lin Ting An who everyone admired.

To her, it was like a prison. Originally, she thought about how she would escape if she entered the Marquis Manor this time. Now everything was all right. A lot of effort was saved.

But right now she had an urgent problem to solve.

The past two years Changfeng had been severely affected by disasters. Last year, there was a severe drought and no crops were harvested. This year, there was drought and locust plagues. How serious was this disaster? Summer was the time when plants were lush, but when one looked around, there was no green at all. Bare ground for thousands of miles around.

The people were destitute and homeless. Countless people died of thirst and starvation.

It was also because of this that hardworking couple Jiang Cheng and Mrs. Chen were forced to sell their daughter to live.

Jiang Yun Zhu thought, can’t stay in this Changfeng anymore.

One, the disaster here was too serious. There was an old saying, rather be a dog of peace than a person in troubled times. She felt this was very reasonable. If the society was stable and the people live and work in peace and contentment, then a dog may eat meat. Just like modern society.

Conversely, if the society was in turmoil and the people were poor, no matter how hard a person works, it will be difficult to live the life he wants.

So if they want to live a good life, they must first move to a rich place.

Another point, she remembered that there would still be a drought in Changfeng next year.

Jiang Family will go to flee when the mountains are poor and rivers run out next year. That was why she couldn’t contact them when she wanted to after she gained a firm foothold in the Marquis Anping Manor in her dream.

Since this was the case, why not switch from being passive into taking initiative and move in advance?

Thinking of this, Jiang Yun Zhu wandered around in the yard.

Soon, she found Jiang Cheng, who was squatting with his head drooped under the back eaves. He was this body’s father.

Afraid of embarrassing Jiang Cheng, Jiang Yun Zhu backed away. Then she deliberately made her steps heavy and walked over there.

Hearing footsteps, Jiang Cheng quickly wiped his eyes, and stood up.

"Father, I know you're sad. But things are already like this. Let's think about what to do in the future. As for Yun Xiu, I think we will meet her again in the future." Jiang Yun Zhu persuaded. She was telling the truth.

Jiang Cheng thought she was comforting him. How could they possibly see their sold daughter again.

"It's Father who wronged you guys." Jiang Cheng spoke. It was him who was useless.

Jiang Yun Zhu didn't want to talk about this topic. In famine years, people exchanging their children for food happened.

Jiang Cheng was silent for a while, thinking that it was time to think about the future. He already lost one daughter and didn't want to lose another.

"Don't worry. With these six liang, we should be able to last until next year when we are frugal with the expenses. Once next year’s spring..."

"What if there is still a severe drought next year?" Jiang Yun Zhu asked.

Jiang Cheng was stunned by the question and subconsciously wanted to answer ‘How is that possible.’ But when he thought about the severe drought last year and the severe drought and locust plague this year, it seems that next year's severe drought wasn’t impossible.

That’s right, what if there was a severe drought next year? He froze.

Jiang Yun Zhu waited for him to come back to his senses.

After a while, Jiang Cheng responded, "Call your mother and Jiang Lin and the others over. Let's have a good discussion."

Jiang Family didn’t only have two daughters, Jiang Yun Zhu and Jiang Yun Xiu, but also two sons and a daughter- Jiang Lin, Jiang Yun Xue, and Jiang Wu. It was just that they were too young. During this time, no one wanted them even when given to others for free.

Jiang Yun Zhu nodded and went to call Mrs. Chen and others.

After a while, the whole family gathered in the house.

Jiang Yun Zhu held Jiang Wu's hand and entered the room.

Jiang Wu was only six years old this year. Quite healthy and cute.

Both Jiang Cheng and Mrs. Chen had good looks. Jiang Cheng had a typical square face, while Mrs. Chen had the gentleness of a Jiangnan water town and fair skin. So the children of Jiang Family were all very good-looking. When Jiang Yun Zhu saw Jiang Wu, she was fond of him.

Unfortunately, in the dream, he seemed to have died on the way to seeking refuge.

That was right, if going according to the situation in the dream, Jiang Family will wait until next year when the money is spent before fleeing. Jiang Wu was so young, it was normal that he can't hold on.

Fortunately, it shouldn’t happen now.

Jiang Yun Zhu clenched Jiang Wu's hand. Jiang Wu leaned against her leg and blinked his big round eyes. He seemed to sense that something happened at home

"Family Head." Chen didn't know what happened and asked Jiang Cheng.

Jiang Cheng repeated what Jiang Yun Zhu said just now and asked her what she thought.

Mrs. Chen was at a loss. Will there be a severe drought next year? Lord Heaven just won’t give people a way to survive! But now that it was autumn and there was no sign of rain at all. Maybe it will really happen next year...

She didn't dare to think about it before. She always hoped that it would be better next year. But now someone pointed it out, it was like she awakened from a dream.

What to do? She looked at Jiang Cheng.

Jiang Cheng turned to Jiang Yun Zhu. He felt that after this incident, she seemed to have grown up a lot.

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AKIT7 169ii

Chapter 169 (Part 2)


The weather was getting hotter and hotter. When the chirping of cicadas sounded from the trees again, Da Qiao had graduated.

On the day of the graduation photo shoot, everyone in Qiao Family came.

The students in the department were very envious when they saw Da Qiao's family.

In recent years, traveling had become much more convenient than before and everyone's life was getting better day by day. Despite this, they weren’t rich enough. Therefore, for those students whose families weren’t in the capital, none of their family members came over when they graduated.

Those who attended were all families in the capital or not far from the capital or families with a relatively well-off economy.

But even those who live in the capital, there are three or four family members at most. Like Da Qiao’s grandparents, parents, siblings, uncles and aunts, and even future mother-in-law and future brother-in-law, there wasn't a second one!

The previous graduates had never uniformed their costumes when taking graduation photos. But this year's students of the Department of Finance and Economics, all the men wore Chinese tunic suits, and the women wore white dresses under Da Qiao's suggestion.

Because there were only four girls including Da Qiao in the whole grade, Da Qiao personally took care of it and gave each of them a white dress of the same style.

When the girls saw the white dresses, they hugged Da Qiao in delight. They chattered and laughed non-stop.

While the boys weren’t so lucky. There were too many people. Da Qiao couldn't give it away even if she wanted to. Besides, there was a jealous Huo Chi by her side. So she didn't dare to give it away either.

So most of the boys choose to rent clothes. Some of them have better conditions. They buy a set or borrow from family members.

When it was time to take pictures, they stood together in a uniformed costume. A beautiful sight that made graduates from other departments jealous.

The four girls were arranged in the middle position in their black tunic suits paired with white dresses. Male were spirited, while female were delicate. What a beautiful picture.

KACHA!

The photographer captures the smiles of everyone.

Then someone shouted: "Students of the 82nd class, we graduated today!"

As soon as the sound came out, people cheered along.

Some people embraced each other, some people had tears in their eyes. Everyone bidded farewell, saying that they must reunite in the future.

Although Da Qiao only joined this class in the third year, everyone dotes on her and treats her like a little sister because she was the youngest, beautiful, and had a good personality.

So after the group photo was taken, many people came to her to take pictures together.

People who wanted to take pictures with her lined up. The scene was very spectacular. Once again, it attracted the attention of other departments.

Cai Ru Nan enviously remarked: "Da Qiao is so pretty today. My God, she looks like a fairy when she smiles. My God, her figure is so perfect. If I can be one-tenth as good-looking as her, I can shorten my life by ten years!"

Because Da Qiao skipped a grade for a year, Cai Ru Nan was now a third year student and will not graduate until next year.

But because she had a good relationship with Da Qiao, she will definitely come to support Da Qiao as her friend today.

When Song Yu Lian, who was standing by, heard this, her eyes almost rolled to the sky.

In the past three years, except for the beginning, the relationship in the dormitory was very tense. Later, after Wang Xian Xian's Uncle’s incident, Wang, Song and Chen trio had disbanded and the relationship in the dormitory was eased in turn.

After Wang Xian Xian realized that she wasn’t that important, she put all her mind on her career and wanted to surpass Da Qiao in grades.

Although she had never been able to surpass Da Qiao, her hard work had been rewarded generously.

On the contrary, Song Yu Lian didn't change her sly thoughts from the beginning to the end. Her family had no background and she wasn’t excelling as an individual. So she only dared to be jealous of Da Qiao in her heart.

Hearing Cai Ru Nan's words now, she despised Cai Ru Nan as Da Qiao's licking dog. At the same time, she envied Da Qiao's beauty and popularity.

According to her relationship with Da Qiao, she shouldn't attend the finance department’s graduation photos today. But a year ago she dumped her previous match and then quickly found another match in the finance department.

This match happened to be in the same class as Da Qiao but it was the class next door. At this moment, she was supporting her match as a family member.

At this time, when she saw everyone running to take a photo with Da Qiao, she felt very uncomfortable. Her eyes turned red like rabbits with jealousy.

Her mind spun. She lifted her skirt up and walked towards her match.

"Elder Brother Gu, look how profusely you are sweating. Quickly, wipe off your sweat!"

Her partner was called Gu Yong. Because she had heard Da Qiao call Huo Chi elder brother, she followed suit. It happened that her match liked this very much and the relationship between the two was very sticky and sweet.

Sure enough, upon hearing her words, Gu Yong's face bloomed.

It was just that this flower was a little prickly on the eyes as Gu Yong's nose was crooked and his teeth were buckled. His appearance was unordinary ugly.

Since he was this ugly and Song Yu Lian was still willing to be with him, it went without saying he had good points. That was, his dad was rich.

In order to become the focus of today's occasion, Song Yu Lian saved money for more than two months, gritted her teeth, and bought the red dress she was wearing.

The skirt was reached below the knee. A length that was somewhat noticeable in this day and age.

So when she walked over, many boys' eyes fell on her figure.

Song Yu Lian's face wasn’t great, but her figure was very superb. She got the curves, especially one certain area that was uniquely bountiful. It trembled as she walked. This was why her partner was willing to be with her.

Cai Ru Nan heard Song Yu Lian's whispering voice and all the goosebumps on her arms rose.

Just at this time, Da Qiao had finished up with the group photo. So Cai Ru Nan hurried over and whispered, "Da Qiao, from I see that woman is acting up again!"

Da Qiao glanced at the direction she was pointing at and quickly looked away. Light-hearted, she replied: "She didn't provoke you, why do you hate her so much?"

Cai Ru Nan curled her lips and answered, "I don't know why. I always find her an eyesore!"

Song Yu Lian noticed the two’s gazes and grinned even wider.

"Scratch your head and make a pose!" Cai Ru Nan spat.

Da Qiao shook her head with a helpless expression, feeling that the two of them were natural rivals.

Just as she was thinking this, she saw Song Yu Lian and her partner walking towards them side by side.

Walking up to Da Qiao, Song Yu Lian glanced left and right and made a surprised expression: "Da Qiao, didn't Senior Brother Huo come to take part in your graduation photo?"

Cai Ru Nan became angry when she saw her pretending. She opened her mouth to retort but was held down by Da Qiao.

Da Qiao shook her head: "No, he went on a business trip to the south."

She also felt that it was quite unfortunate that Huo Chi didn't come to the once-in-a-lifetime university graduation ceremony. But she didn't complain in her heart because work was the most important thing.

Song Yu Lian was even more surprised: "Senior Brother Huo is too much. It's not me exaggerating. When I graduate next year, no matter how busy my Elder Brother Gu is, he will definitely come back to participate. Isn’t that right, Elder Brother Gu?"

As soon as Gu Yong walked over, his squinted eyes were glued to Da Qiao's face. He only came back to his senses when he heard Song Yu Lian's words and rapidly nodded, "Yes, yes, yes."

Song Yu Lian looked proud: "Da Qiao, you heard me. I think the reason why Senior Brother Huo didn't rush back is because he didn't pay enough attention to you. You must not let him go lightly later!"

Cai Ru Nan rolled her eyes until only the whites of her eyes remained: "Ugh... I don't know why, but I suddenly feel nauseous!"

When Da Qiao heard this, she almost burst out laughing.

Seeing the two’s reaction, Song Yu Lian was so angry that her face turned red!

Suddenly, her mind turned again. She looked at Da Qiao and requested, "Da Qiao, can I trouble you to take a photo of me and my Elder Brother Gu? My Elder Brother Gu brought his own camera."

Da Qiao nodded: "Sure."

Song Yu Lian handed over the camera and repeatedly warned: "Da Qiao, you must hold it steady. This camera is very expensive. If it falls, I'm afraid you won't be able to compensate for it!"

"Oh, by the way, do you know how to use a camera? Do you want me to teach you? This is an advanced thing. Many people have never even seen it!"

She opened her mouth and chattered non-stop. All this time, Da Qiao didn't bother to pay attention to her, just quietly watching her pretend.

Song Yu Lian talked for a while before she noticed that no one went along with her. Immediately, she was embarrassed and irked.

She linked Gu Yong's arm and came under a big tree. Then she raised her head at a 45-degree angle toward the sky and exclaimed, "Elder Brother Gu, look at how blue the sky is today!"

Then she ordered Da Qiao like a superior ordering a subordinate: "Da Qiao, you can take pictures. Pay attention, take pictures of the whole big tree behind and the blue sky here. Can you take pictures?"

Da Qiao let out a "hmm".

Cai Ru Nan was furious when she saw this and felt that Da Qiao's personality was too soft. At this time, she should smash the camera on the woman's face and let her eat sh*t!

Song Yu Lian felt even more proud when she saw that Da Qiao listening to all her commands.

Just as she was posing and repeating the words ‘the sky was so blue’, a lump of bird droppings fell from the tree and landed in her mouth.

KACHA!

Da Qiao took the opportunity to press the button and took a perfect picture of the bird dropping in her mouth.

Several people were stunned.

Just now Song Yu Lian made such a big movement, everyone naturally noticed. Now they witnessed bird droppings falling into her mouth, the onlookers were also stunned.

The next moment, before Song Yu Lian could react, Cai Ru Nan burst into laughter: "Hahahahaha, I'm dying of laughter. My god, Song Yu Lian, what just fell into your mouth is bird poo, right? Hahahaha..."

Song Yu Lian: "..."

Her mind returned and repeatedly spat bird droppings on the ground again and again.

Everyone looked at the ground and saw a bunch of disgusting things. Then the laughter also followed.

Song Yu Lian's face turned red, white, green and black. She was so furious that she almost died on the spot!

Her partner Gu Yong felt extremely ashamed, left her, and ran away.

Song Yu Lian was angry and anxious. She wanted to run after him.

Da Qiao stopped her at this moment and stated in a calm voice, "I'll give you the camera back. Oh, by the way, I happened to take a picture of the bird droppings falling into your mouth just now."

Song Yu Lian: "..."

Seeing this, Cai Ru Nan laughed loudly again.

She felt Da Qiao was too black-bellied!

This was more embarrassing to Song Yu Lian than smashing the camera on her face. It felt so refreshing to slap her in the face!

Song Yu Lian stared at Da Qiao. Her teeth were about to shatter from gritting with hatred.

But before she could speak, a hot air balloon suddenly floated in the sky.

The hot air balloon floated towards the place where everyone was taking pictures from far away. This scene immediately attracted everyone's attention.

"Look, there's a hot air balloon! There seems to be someone on it!"

"Oh my God, this was the first time I've seen a hot air balloon!"

"Me too. They seem to be landing. Oh my god, are they from our school?"

All eyes were on the hot air balloon, for fear of missing any details.

The hot air balloon descended lower and lower. When it reached a height of five meters, everyone could clearly see the people above!

Someone immediately recognized one person: "It's Huo Chi!"

Huo Chi was supposed to graduate this year, but he skipped a grade like Da Qiao.

As a famous figure in the school, there weren’t many people who didn’t know him when he was in school. Later, he skipped a grade and started his own company. The pager and cellular phone he created became a successful model that school professors often talked about.

In the eyes of many people, he was already an insurmountable divine existence.

Everyone thought he would come for the graduation photos this time. Unexpectedly, he didn't. Some people even speculated that their relationship spiraled downward.

Unforeseen, this moment slapped their face.

What spiraled down? They were playing luxurious surprises!

Da Qiao was also surprised when she saw Huo Chi inside the hot air balloon.

This baddie actually lied to her again. She thought he wouldn't come!

Huo Chi stood in the basket of the hot air balloon, looking at her with a pair of dark eyes. It was filled with tenderness.

The hot air balloon finally landed on the ground slowly.

Huo Chi opened the door of the hanging basket and walked out.

What made everyone even more surprised was that a dog and an old hen walked out behind him.

Everyone:? ? ?

The dog, they can still understand, but what was the story with the old hen?

At this time, they both had a puffed chest posture as they followed behind Huo Chi. They waddled toward Da Qiao.

Everyone was shocked by this scene!

What the hell was going on?

When Da Qiao saw Pi Pi and Gu Gu, the corners of her mouth rose even more.

Step by step, Huo Chi approached Da Qiao with his long legs.

Today he was wearing a formal black suit. The suit was handmade; quite exquisite and noble. It further set off his imposing aura, like a dragon and a phoenix among men.

Everyone's eyes were on him. Some were envious, some were admiring.

Song Yu Lian, who stood next to Da Qiao, was bubbling with envy and jealousy to the point of nearly exploding.

Cai Ru Nan walked over and dragged Song Yu Lian away from Da Qiao's side.

While struggling, Song Yu Lian scolded her: "Cai Ru Nan, let go. What are you doing?"

Cai Ru Nan retorted back without giving face: "What? Don't you see her match coming over? What are you, a bird-poop-eater standing by for? Don't you feel ashamed?"

When the people around heard this, they laughed again.

Song Yu Lian glared at Cai Ru Nan. Her face was as dark as the bottom of a pot.

Huo Chi walked up to Da Qiao, untied the small bag hanging around Pi Pi's neck and took out a red box from it.

He opened it, knelt down on one knee, and declared: "The greatest gratitude in this life is that Heaven sent you to my side. Nian Nian, thank you for coming to my side. Thank you for accompanying me through all the years. Thank you for constantly supporting me. I want to protect you, guard you, and slowly accompany you white hair. So, Qiao Nian Nian, will you marry me?"

When he walked toward her, her heart went wild.

She had a vague premonition in her heart that he would propose to her. But when she saw him kneel down on one knee, her eyes still couldn't help reddened.

She turned to look at her family.

Qiao Xiu Zhi and Xue Chuan stood side by side, nodding toward her with a smile on their lips.

Lin Hui took Qiao Zhen Jun's hand and smilingly nodded at her.

Qiao Zhen Jun's eyes were red. However, he wasn’t moved. But angry!

When Huo Chi didn't come to Da Qiao's graduation ceremony, he was fuming, feeling that he didn't value Da Qiao.

Unexpectedly, this guy suddenly appeared in the middle and then proposed without warning!

So despicable!

So cunning!

His unexpected way of proposing marriage was really infuriating!

The twins and little Dong Yun looked at each other and sighed.

They used to be young and thought that when their elder sister got married, they would marry along with their dowry. But as they got older, they realized that it was impossible.

So now seeing their elder sister getting proposed, they could only sigh in their hearts.

Qiao Dong Wan held little Mi Bao in her hand, with the corners of her mouth raised.

Elder Sister was the best sister. She deserved the best happiness in the world.

Although she felt a little regretful that her elder sister would no longer be able to accompany her as before after she got married, she was still happy for her elder sister.

Qiao Dong Ying was also very excited.

She watched the two of them walk all the way. It was only natural for them to come together.

How wonderful!

Shen Tian You, who was standing beside her, leaned over and whispered in her ear: "Elder Sister Ying, you don't have to envy Da Qiao. I can give you such surprises and happiness in the future!"

Qiao Dong Ying's face instantly turned red: "Shut up!"

Shen Tian You pitifully replied: "Elder Sister Ying, can't you love me more?"

Qiao Dong Ying rolled her eyes at him.

She had always rejected him before. Because the age difference between the two was too great. However, this guy was like a gum. Once stuck on, forget about getting rid of it!

Whenever he had time, he ran out from school to find her, brought her food, and told her all kinds of silly jokes.

Gradually, she got used to his presence.

People were born lonely. She often felt lonely, even when she was surrounded by her family.

Family members had their own lives and career. The arrival of Shen Tian You filled up this loneliness.

He was always there when she was unhappy.

Gradually, she stopped resisting.

Dai Shu Fang's eyes were also red. Unlike Qiao Zhen Jun's anger, she was excited and moved.

Truly wonderful!

Son was amazing!

Da Qiao was finally going to be her daughter-in-law!

Zhong Kang De stood next to her with little Wu-er in his arms, reminiscing about New Year's Eve when he proposed. His eyes were also full of smiles.

Little Wu-er leaned forward, wanting to go to Da Qiao's side: "Go to Elder Sister... there!"

Dai Shu Fang leaned over and kissed Youngest Son on the cheek: "From now on, you can no longer call Elder Sister." Instead, call Elder Sister-in-law.

Da Qiao didn't respond for a long time. Standing beside Huo Chi like guards, Pi Pi and Gu Gu seem impatient.

"Wow woof!"

"Gugugu!"

Everyone: "..."

This scene was truly unprecedented!

Da Qiao withdrew her gaze. She raised the corners of her mouth, showing a slight dimple. Looking at Huo Chi, she smiled, "I am willing, Elder Brother Huo Chi!"

I am willing to be your wife, from black hair to white hair!

I am willing to stay with you all my life and be your closest person!

When Huo Chi heard this, his chest felt like it was filled with something.

He stood up, put the ring on Da Qiao's middle finger, and hugged her tightly: "I love you, Nian Nian!"

Blue sky, white clouds, and green trees. A match made in heaven.

This scene was as beautiful as a poem.

Cai Ru Nan took the lead in applauding. The people around her followed suit.

Da Qiao put her arms around Huo Chi's strong waist and leaned her head on his shoulder. Raising the corners of her mouth, she whispered in response, "I love you too, Elder Brother Huo Chi."

--End of text---

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Translator Note: What do you think of the ending? What's the most memorable part of this story for you? Do you guys want a quiz like BTTS?

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