***
Back to Xu Mao Lin. Three years ago, he was only fifteen years old and joined the army to kill the enemy. In the battle to defend Luohe Prefecture, he beheaded the enemy army’s left forward’s head. Before reaching the age of twenty, he was already a sixth rank lieutenant in the army. This showed he was quite talented.
Xu Family was originally a noble family with a title. When it reached Xu Mao Lin's generation, it was the last generation of nobles. There were only him, his widowed Mother who had been widowed for ten years, and his thirteen-year-old younger sister in the family. The family had inherited the title for three generations, there was still some heritage in the family.
This time when Xu Family went to Su Family to seek for marriage, it was Mother Xu who made the decision before discussing it with Xu Mao Lin. After knowing about this matter, he inevitably explained to his Mother Xu, “Son is just eighteen. The perfect time to make contributions. A man would lack no wife? The most urgent thing is to make contributions. Reviving my Xu Family's lintel is top priority."
Mother Xu looked quite a bit like a Jiangnan woman. Only her eyebrows and eyes were similar to her eldest son. Looking at Eldest Son who was seven percent similar to her late husband, Mother Xu sighed: "How could I not know of your ambition? It’s just Mother is getting worse and worse now. And your sister is soft-tempered. There’s a need for someone to support the family."
In fact, Mother Xu knew that You Zhu had a reputation for being somewhat aggressive but she thought it was a good trait. After Master left and if she hadn't held up her breath and been aggressive once, them orphans and widow would have been eaten by those clan relatives. How can she bring up her pair of children then?
Eldest Son had great ambitions, while Youngest daughter was too soft-tempered. She had been in poor health since she gave birth to Youngest Daughter thirteen years ago. In addition, she fell ill again in the winter of last year. Mother Xu was worried that if she passed, this family would fall apart. So she was in a hurry to choose a good marriage for Eldest Son.
"Mother, don't say such depressing words. Mother's body is recovering now. You can nurture your body with peace of mind. Don't worry too much." Xu Mao Lin didn't know Mother Xu's thoughts. He only thought that she was too worried during her illness and couldn't avoid comforting her a bit.
Mother Xu sighed. She knew her own body. It was a matter of two or three years. If she left like this and the two children hadn’t settled down, how could she have the face to meet the ancestors of Xu Family?
Seeing Mother like this, Xu Mao Lin didn't want to say anything more. It just so happened that Mother’s personal attendant came in with the freshly prepared medicine. It was time for Mother Xu to take the medicine. Xu Mao Lin knew that Mother was going to rest after taking the medicine and didn’t disturb her anymore. He only instructed the attendant to take care of her carefully. He stated that there were important matters in the barracks and left the inner courtyard to prepare to go back to the barracks.
"Brother, are you going out?" It turned out to be Xu Mao Lin's younger sister, Xu Rong Jia. She had come back from outside: "The sun is shining now. Brother, be careful not to get dizzy from the sun."
Seeing that his younger sister's smiling face was a little rosy, Xu Mao Lin nodded and responded, "Brother knows. You should quickly go in too lest that you get tanned."
"I know." Xu Rong Jia was born fair. Still, she was also afraid of getting tanned. She stood on the porch and watched her brother leave the manor before turning around and going back to the courtyard. After lunch, she waited for three quarters of an hour before getting up and going back to the academy to attend class.
Xu Rong Jia also studied at Erya Female Academy and had spent some time with You Yin. So she knew a little about Su Family’s girls. On the day Mother Xu asked a matchmaker to go to Su Family to propose marriage, Mother Xu asked her daughter about You Zhu’s personality. Although Xu Rong Jia didn't know why Mother asked such a question, she answered obediently.
Xu Rong Jia had a soft temper, so she yearned to be like You Zhu who had a straightforward temper. Her words were full of admiration. Mother Xu knew that her daughter's heart was simple. If she was willing to be close to someone, she must have a good temper. So Mother Xu and daughter were already very satisfied with Su Family's daughter. Only Xu Mao Lin was alone. He didn’t even know the person Mother talked about.
***
Back to Su Family’s side. Leader Guard Xiao figured out Xu Mao Lin's daily activity route in just two days. The master and servant trio waited at the tea house next to the intersection that Xu Mao Lin would pass by every day. You Jin planned to intercept him on the spot, using the excuse that he hurt You Zhu to see what kind of temperament this person had.
In the city, horse galloping wasn’t allowed. So Xu Mao Lin just rode on the horse and walked slowly, enjoying the local customs of Luohe Prefecture along the way. He had only been in Luohe Prefecture for four or five years. Because of worrying about widow and orphan Mother and younger sister in the capital, Xu Mao Lin brought Mother and younger sister to Luohe Prefecture after he was awarded the title of lieutenant and was allocated a double entry property the year before the last.
"Lieutenant Xu, salute." Leader Guard Xiao smoothly stopped Xu Mao Lin.
Xu Mao Lin saw that it was a man in his early thirties who was blocking his horse's direction. Judging by his aura and air, he was a skilled fighter. Although Xu Mao Lin was clueless, he still got off his horse and replied, "I wonder what pointers you can give me, brother?"
Leader Guard Xiao cupped his hands and said: "A few days ago, what happened in Qinjiaxiang. My master is here to invite you."
When Xu Mao Lin heard him mention Qinjiaxiang, he thought to himself: "Could it be the little lass from that day?"
His expression was still indifferent. He asked: "I have already thanked your master for her kindness that day. Why do you invite me today?"
Although he didn't show it on the surface, he was still on guard on the inside. This was his way back to the camp every day. Since this person knew that they could stop him here, they must have some clear understanding of his whereabouts. Not knowing whether the other party was a foe or friend, Xu Mao Lin didn't dare to act rashly.
Leader Guard Xiao didn't say a word. He just cupped his hands and invited him in: "Lieutenant Xu please."
Xu Mao Lin had no choice but to throw the reins to the little attendant in the nearby teahouse and followed Leader Guard Xiao into the teahouse.
Entering the wing room on the second floor, Xu Mao Lin felt a little lost when he saw the master wasn't the lass from that day. Seeing that the young woman combed a maiden’s bun hairstyle, he deliberately left the door of the wing room open to avoid suspicion. His face didn't lose the slightest sense of propriety: "I wonder why Miss stopped me?"
You Jin carefully scanned Xu Mao Lin at the first moment he came in. Xu Mao Lin was seven feet tall. Probably because he was exposed to the sun and rain in the military camp, so he was darker than ordinary men. Still, the eyebrows were very well formed. If he was fairer, he would be a jade-like gentleman. The important thing was that because Xu Mao Lin was probably a soldier, there was a trace of righteousness between his brows. You Jin's first impression of this person was quite good.
But the play that should be played still needs to be played. You Jin, who was still expressionless, entered the act instantly. She directly glared at Xu Mao Lin: "Who am I? Although my Su Family came from a rural background, Lieutenant Xu is a bit too bullying. My younger sister obviously caught the thief for you with good intentions, but you fought with her on the street. Now who in Luohe prefecture doesn’t know my Su Family’s daughter is aggressive. Because of this incident, my younger sister has no mind to eat and drink. She only seek for death. If Lieutenant Xu doesn't give me an explanation, I will carry the imperial plaque to your barracks tomorrow to find Cavalry Official Liu for justice!"
Xu Mao Lin listened to her with guns-and-stick-like scolding. There was no embarrassment on his face, only seventy percent guilt and thirty percent worry. He bowed to You Jin: "I was too impulsive that day. It's my fault. I am willing to bear the consequence and let Miss deal with me."
Looking at him with clear mind, she can tell he was sincerely admitting his mistake. She thought in her heart, this person was really responsible. Still, she kept an angry expression on her face: "You say it so lightly. Don’t you know that a maiden’s reputation is the most important? My Third Younger Sister got rough with you on the street. How many pairs of eyes have seen it! My Third Younger Sister's reputation and innocence, what can you compensate with?"
"As long as Third Miss is willing, I will clarify to my family’s Mother today and come to your manor to propose marriage!" After Xu Mao Lin blurted out, he secretly hated himself for being more than rash. Afraid that Su Family’s Miss would be more dissatisfied with him: "I’m not a rash person. It’s just...just..." Didn't know how to explain it, Xu Mao Lin blushed and was at a loss.
Seeing him like this, You Jin found it interesting and said: "This marriage is done reluctantly. Once my Third Younger Sister enters your Xu residence, can she possibly have a good life? You must know, on that day, my Third Younger Sister had suffered a loss in your hands."
That's right. Although You Zhu wasn't beaten to the ground, how could she be the opponent of the battle-tested Xu Mao Lin with her flamboyant skills?
Thinking of the young girl who suddenly attacked him that day. She couldn't beat him, so she put her hips on her hips and called him a ‘big dumb donkey’. Xu Mao Lin couldn't help but want to smile for some reason. But thinking how the current occasion was wrong, he quickly suppressed his smile and responded, "I can't guarantee that Miss Su will be decked in brocade and fed with jade food. But if Miss Su is willing, I will definitely do everything to..."
Before Xu Mao Lin finished speaking, he was interrupted by a man rushing in from outside: "She isn't willing!"
The young man in the bamboo green brocade robe strode in. First he gave him a stern look before dragging away Miss Su who was sitting behind the round table. The strange thing was that no one around Miss Su considered stepping forward to rescue their master. Instead, they all smiled and followed from afar.
The confused Xu Mao Lin hadn't finished speaking and the man disappeared. He only saw the man holding Miss Su's hand tightly and leaving in an open manner.
He lowered his head a little shyly, thinking that this man must have a very close relationship with Miss Su.
"Lieutenant Xu, apologies. My master, uh, have something to do temporarily. You go back first. Whatever the matter, it will be discussed next time?" Leader Guard Xiao watched his former master dragging his current master away. He was embarrassed and somewhat wanted to laugh. Still, he didn't forget to explain to Xu Mao Lin.
Back to Xiao Lin Yu. He overheard the servants of Su Family discussing that Eldest Miss was going to see Lieutenant Xu. Before he even finished listening to the conversation, he hurried out on the horse to Luohe Prefecture to find her. After much difficulty, he found her. Before he went in, he heard that damned Lieutenant Xu making an affectionate confession to You Jin. He couldn't bear it for a moment. He rushed in directly, grabbed You Jin, and walked out.
Once they left the teahouse, his boiling blood became slightly colder. He came out on a horse. He couldn't possibly share a ride with You Jin, could he? If he did, it would really ruin her reputation? Thinking of this, he quickly let go of You Jin's hand.
Fortunately, when Su Family’s driver saw Eldest Miss and Xiao Family’s Commandery Duke coming out, he tactfully drove the horse up to them: "Eldest Miss, Commandery Duke."
You Jin slightly shook her hand that was a little sore from being grasped. She helplessly glared at him. What fuss was he kicking up? She went straight into the carriage and ignored him.
Xiao Lin Yu, who didn't know he ruined something, only thought that You Jin was angry because he had ruined her marriage. When he thought this, he became more disheartened.
"Eldest Young Master, Miss invites you to Sujiayan.”
Su Family's carriage had already left. Only Leader Guard Xiao was left to deliver a message to his former master.
Xiao Lin Yu looked at Leader Guard Xiao with a wry smile and said, "Say Leader Guard, did I do something bad?"
Leader Guard pursed his lips before nodding slightly.
***
Back to Xu Mao Lin. Three years ago, he was only fifteen years old and joined the army to kill the enemy. In the battle to defend Luohe Prefecture, he beheaded the enemy army’s left forward’s head. Before reaching the age of twenty, he was already a sixth rank lieutenant in the army. This showed he was quite talented.
Xu Family was originally a noble family with a title. When it reached Xu Mao Lin's generation, it was the last generation of nobles. There were only him, his widowed Mother who had been widowed for ten years, and his thirteen-year-old younger sister in the family. The family had inherited the title for three generations, there was still some heritage in the family.
This time when Xu Family went to Su Family to seek for marriage, it was Mother Xu who made the decision before discussing it with Xu Mao Lin. After knowing about this matter, he inevitably explained to his Mother Xu, “Son is just eighteen. The perfect time to make contributions. A man would lack no wife? The most urgent thing is to make contributions. Reviving my Xu Family's lintel is top priority."
Mother Xu looked quite a bit like a Jiangnan woman. Only her eyebrows and eyes were similar to her eldest son. Looking at Eldest Son who was seven percent similar to her late husband, Mother Xu sighed: "How could I not know of your ambition? It’s just Mother is getting worse and worse now. And your sister is soft-tempered. There’s a need for someone to support the family."
In fact, Mother Xu knew that You Zhu had a reputation for being somewhat aggressive but she thought it was a good trait. After Master left and if she hadn't held up her breath and been aggressive once, them orphans and widow would have been eaten by those clan relatives. How can she bring up her pair of children then?
Eldest Son had great ambitions, while Youngest daughter was too soft-tempered. She had been in poor health since she gave birth to Youngest Daughter thirteen years ago. In addition, she fell ill again in the winter of last year. Mother Xu was worried that if she passed, this family would fall apart. So she was in a hurry to choose a good marriage for Eldest Son.
"Mother, don't say such depressing words. Mother's body is recovering now. You can nurture your body with peace of mind. Don't worry too much." Xu Mao Lin didn't know Mother Xu's thoughts. He only thought that she was too worried during her illness and couldn't avoid comforting her a bit.
Mother Xu sighed. She knew her own body. It was a matter of two or three years. If she left like this and the two children hadn’t settled down, how could she have the face to meet the ancestors of Xu Family?
Seeing Mother like this, Xu Mao Lin didn't want to say anything more. It just so happened that Mother’s personal attendant came in with the freshly prepared medicine. It was time for Mother Xu to take the medicine. Xu Mao Lin knew that Mother was going to rest after taking the medicine and didn’t disturb her anymore. He only instructed the attendant to take care of her carefully. He stated that there were important matters in the barracks and left the inner courtyard to prepare to go back to the barracks.
"Brother, are you going out?" It turned out to be Xu Mao Lin's younger sister, Xu Rong Jia. She had come back from outside: "The sun is shining now. Brother, be careful not to get dizzy from the sun."
Seeing that his younger sister's smiling face was a little rosy, Xu Mao Lin nodded and responded, "Brother knows. You should quickly go in too lest that you get tanned."
"I know." Xu Rong Jia was born fair. Still, she was also afraid of getting tanned. She stood on the porch and watched her brother leave the manor before turning around and going back to the courtyard. After lunch, she waited for three quarters of an hour before getting up and going back to the academy to attend class.
Xu Rong Jia also studied at Erya Female Academy and had spent some time with You Yin. So she knew a little about Su Family’s girls. On the day Mother Xu asked a matchmaker to go to Su Family to propose marriage, Mother Xu asked her daughter about You Zhu’s personality. Although Xu Rong Jia didn't know why Mother asked such a question, she answered obediently.
Xu Rong Jia had a soft temper, so she yearned to be like You Zhu who had a straightforward temper. Her words were full of admiration. Mother Xu knew that her daughter's heart was simple. If she was willing to be close to someone, she must have a good temper. So Mother Xu and daughter were already very satisfied with Su Family's daughter. Only Xu Mao Lin was alone. He didn’t even know the person Mother talked about.
***
Back to Su Family’s side. Leader Guard Xiao figured out Xu Mao Lin's daily activity route in just two days. The master and servant trio waited at the tea house next to the intersection that Xu Mao Lin would pass by every day. You Jin planned to intercept him on the spot, using the excuse that he hurt You Zhu to see what kind of temperament this person had.
In the city, horse galloping wasn’t allowed. So Xu Mao Lin just rode on the horse and walked slowly, enjoying the local customs of Luohe Prefecture along the way. He had only been in Luohe Prefecture for four or five years. Because of worrying about widow and orphan Mother and younger sister in the capital, Xu Mao Lin brought Mother and younger sister to Luohe Prefecture after he was awarded the title of lieutenant and was allocated a double entry property the year before the last.
"Lieutenant Xu, salute." Leader Guard Xiao smoothly stopped Xu Mao Lin.
Xu Mao Lin saw that it was a man in his early thirties who was blocking his horse's direction. Judging by his aura and air, he was a skilled fighter. Although Xu Mao Lin was clueless, he still got off his horse and replied, "I wonder what pointers you can give me, brother?"
Leader Guard Xiao cupped his hands and said: "A few days ago, what happened in Qinjiaxiang. My master is here to invite you."
When Xu Mao Lin heard him mention Qinjiaxiang, he thought to himself: "Could it be the little lass from that day?"
His expression was still indifferent. He asked: "I have already thanked your master for her kindness that day. Why do you invite me today?"
Although he didn't show it on the surface, he was still on guard on the inside. This was his way back to the camp every day. Since this person knew that they could stop him here, they must have some clear understanding of his whereabouts. Not knowing whether the other party was a foe or friend, Xu Mao Lin didn't dare to act rashly.
Leader Guard Xiao didn't say a word. He just cupped his hands and invited him in: "Lieutenant Xu please."
Xu Mao Lin had no choice but to throw the reins to the little attendant in the nearby teahouse and followed Leader Guard Xiao into the teahouse.
Entering the wing room on the second floor, Xu Mao Lin felt a little lost when he saw the master wasn't the lass from that day. Seeing that the young woman combed a maiden’s bun hairstyle, he deliberately left the door of the wing room open to avoid suspicion. His face didn't lose the slightest sense of propriety: "I wonder why Miss stopped me?"
You Jin carefully scanned Xu Mao Lin at the first moment he came in. Xu Mao Lin was seven feet tall. Probably because he was exposed to the sun and rain in the military camp, so he was darker than ordinary men. Still, the eyebrows were very well formed. If he was fairer, he would be a jade-like gentleman. The important thing was that because Xu Mao Lin was probably a soldier, there was a trace of righteousness between his brows. You Jin's first impression of this person was quite good.
But the play that should be played still needs to be played. You Jin, who was still expressionless, entered the act instantly. She directly glared at Xu Mao Lin: "Who am I? Although my Su Family came from a rural background, Lieutenant Xu is a bit too bullying. My younger sister obviously caught the thief for you with good intentions, but you fought with her on the street. Now who in Luohe prefecture doesn’t know my Su Family’s daughter is aggressive. Because of this incident, my younger sister has no mind to eat and drink. She only seek for death. If Lieutenant Xu doesn't give me an explanation, I will carry the imperial plaque to your barracks tomorrow to find Cavalry Official Liu for justice!"
Xu Mao Lin listened to her with guns-and-stick-like scolding. There was no embarrassment on his face, only seventy percent guilt and thirty percent worry. He bowed to You Jin: "I was too impulsive that day. It's my fault. I am willing to bear the consequence and let Miss deal with me."
Looking at him with clear mind, she can tell he was sincerely admitting his mistake. She thought in her heart, this person was really responsible. Still, she kept an angry expression on her face: "You say it so lightly. Don’t you know that a maiden’s reputation is the most important? My Third Younger Sister got rough with you on the street. How many pairs of eyes have seen it! My Third Younger Sister's reputation and innocence, what can you compensate with?"
"As long as Third Miss is willing, I will clarify to my family’s Mother today and come to your manor to propose marriage!" After Xu Mao Lin blurted out, he secretly hated himself for being more than rash. Afraid that Su Family’s Miss would be more dissatisfied with him: "I’m not a rash person. It’s just...just..." Didn't know how to explain it, Xu Mao Lin blushed and was at a loss.
Seeing him like this, You Jin found it interesting and said: "This marriage is done reluctantly. Once my Third Younger Sister enters your Xu residence, can she possibly have a good life? You must know, on that day, my Third Younger Sister had suffered a loss in your hands."
That's right. Although You Zhu wasn't beaten to the ground, how could she be the opponent of the battle-tested Xu Mao Lin with her flamboyant skills?
Thinking of the young girl who suddenly attacked him that day. She couldn't beat him, so she put her hips on her hips and called him a ‘big dumb donkey’. Xu Mao Lin couldn't help but want to smile for some reason. But thinking how the current occasion was wrong, he quickly suppressed his smile and responded, "I can't guarantee that Miss Su will be decked in brocade and fed with jade food. But if Miss Su is willing, I will definitely do everything to..."
Before Xu Mao Lin finished speaking, he was interrupted by a man rushing in from outside: "She isn't willing!"
The young man in the bamboo green brocade robe strode in. First he gave him a stern look before dragging away Miss Su who was sitting behind the round table. The strange thing was that no one around Miss Su considered stepping forward to rescue their master. Instead, they all smiled and followed from afar.
The confused Xu Mao Lin hadn't finished speaking and the man disappeared. He only saw the man holding Miss Su's hand tightly and leaving in an open manner.
He lowered his head a little shyly, thinking that this man must have a very close relationship with Miss Su.
"Lieutenant Xu, apologies. My master, uh, have something to do temporarily. You go back first. Whatever the matter, it will be discussed next time?" Leader Guard Xiao watched his former master dragging his current master away. He was embarrassed and somewhat wanted to laugh. Still, he didn't forget to explain to Xu Mao Lin.
Back to Xiao Lin Yu. He overheard the servants of Su Family discussing that Eldest Miss was going to see Lieutenant Xu. Before he even finished listening to the conversation, he hurried out on the horse to Luohe Prefecture to find her. After much difficulty, he found her. Before he went in, he heard that damned Lieutenant Xu making an affectionate confession to You Jin. He couldn't bear it for a moment. He rushed in directly, grabbed You Jin, and walked out.
Once they left the teahouse, his boiling blood became slightly colder. He came out on a horse. He couldn't possibly share a ride with You Jin, could he? If he did, it would really ruin her reputation? Thinking of this, he quickly let go of You Jin's hand.
Fortunately, when Su Family’s driver saw Eldest Miss and Xiao Family’s Commandery Duke coming out, he tactfully drove the horse up to them: "Eldest Miss, Commandery Duke."
You Jin slightly shook her hand that was a little sore from being grasped. She helplessly glared at him. What fuss was he kicking up? She went straight into the carriage and ignored him.
Xiao Lin Yu, who didn't know he ruined something, only thought that You Jin was angry because he had ruined her marriage. When he thought this, he became more disheartened.
"Eldest Young Master, Miss invites you to Sujiayan.”
Su Family's carriage had already left. Only Leader Guard Xiao was left to deliver a message to his former master.
Xiao Lin Yu looked at Leader Guard Xiao with a wry smile and said, "Say Leader Guard, did I do something bad?"
Leader Guard pursed his lips before nodding slightly.
***
Ahhhhh!!! What a cliff hanger. Sigh. What happened to all that soulmate mutual understanding from before? They've both become so stupid.
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you so much for translating this story. I have really loved it.
DeleteI KNEW IT!!!!
ReplyDeletexiao lin yu, you moron, you bofoon; you're so lucky you're cute or you'd have been kicked to the curb by now lmao
Somehow, in every single novel, the male lead is the worst part lmao. Begging the author to return xiao lin yu his brains. Also, ty for translating the story!
ReplyDelete*sigh* if it wasn't getting to the end, i truly would stop here
ReplyDeleteML presumes and everyone lets him get away with it
still, thanks for translating
Since ML returned, everyone around Youjin including herself have suddenly gotten stupid. The servants who treated FLs word as law now allow ML to do as he please, flagrantly disobeying FL in the process
ReplyDeleteY'all not teenagers anymore 😩
ReplyDeleteHow is it possible that You Yin and You Bao's love stories, are better than these two?🤦🏼♀️
ReplyDeleteSure, the pre-rebellion part was good and filled with angst, but this? What is this??? (ノ｀Д´)ノ彡┻━┻
This ML is truly the worst part of the book. What the hell happened?
ReplyDelete