Chapter 56. Taking action
Drink sour plum soup? You Jin froze for a moment. It turned out that he came to buy sour plum soup. Somewhat embarrassed, she responded: "Today's sour plum soup is all gone. The three of them drank the last three bowls."
Initially, they planned to go home after selling those three bowls. Never thought they would encounter the local ruffians.
With a dagger at his neck, the pockmarked man was still shaking. Elder Brother, Elder Sister, if you want to chat, let me go first, okay? But he was a cowardly one as he feared the great aunt behind him would cut his neck with the knife as soon as he opened his mouth.
You Jin didn't intend to kill people on the street in broad daylight. She put the dagger back into the leather dagger case and kicked the pockmarked man away: "Don't provoke me, or next time it won't be as simple as having it against your neck."
Finally released, the three of them eagerly nodded. Pissed-scared, they crawled away. Even if they were given a water tank full of gut, they wouldn't dare to provoke this terrifying grand aunt again!
And when Xiao Lin Feng heard that he couldn't drink the sour plum soup, his fair jade-like face immediately dropped. Today was really unlucky. For the first time in his life, he was threatened by some ruffians. On top of that, he couldn't drink the sour plum soup he longed for!
Seeing him getting on the horse with a displeased face, You Jin hurriedly added: "Lord, if you want to drink, we set up a stall here every morning. However, you have to come early as it will be sold out if you are late. "
Xiao Lin Feng vaguely nodded before riding away on his horse. This can't do. This young master was extremely upset. He had to go home and mobilize people to teach those bums a lesson! It was them who drank his sour plum soup and wanted to take action against him on the street!
The pitiful three, who had already been beaten up by You Jin, got severe beating from a dozen people who were dressed like martial artists led by a teen boy on a white horse half an hour later. They'll need to lie on the bed for more than ten days to recover from these injuries. This was all future matters.
Back to You Jin's side. After sending Xiao Lin Feng off, she went home with two empty wooden barrels on a shoulder pole. At the south gate, they ran into You Yin sisters who hadn't returned. Seeing that You Jin was fine, they breathed a sigh of relief: "Elder Sister, you scared us to death!"
"It's fine. Let's go home quickly!" You Jin patted the two younger sisters who were as frightened as baby birds that had just left the nest.
Maybe it was because You Jin's single-handedly sorting out those ruffians that day, no one dared to provoke her since that day. Now You Jin woke up early every day and went to the city to sell sour plum soup. At noon, she came back to eat and sleep. After the nap, she continued to slowly clean up the few mu of wasteland that had been piled up with fertilizer a few times over. After more than a month of tossing around, the few mu of land had gradually accumulated fertility. Although they hadn't turned into fertile fields so quickly, they were much better than before.
Now there were tender little buds growing in that field! Although they couldn't grow grain, You Jin got her hands on some fresh raw melon seeds and planted them all. After the autumn harvest, two or three mu of melon will be collected. Another big profit will happen during the New Year's sale.
Now the river west side's Su Family had undergone earth-shaking changes from when they first moved in. The lively laughter, the flat green fields, and the smoke from the kitchen. This peaceful and beautiful atmosphere made the villagers of Wuliqiao forget that this was a desolate haunted place that adults don't dare to pass by at noon. It was as if the west side of the river used to be like this.
Su Family's girls even made friends of the same age in the village. Although the east and west sides weren't too close, which village children didn't run out wild?
On the east side of the Wuliqiao River was the official road to Luohe Prefecture. While on the west side of the river was only Su's house. There were also wild vegetables, pigweeds, and all kinds of wild flowers that cute girls like most.
Since the west side of the river had become populated, the children of the village gradually dared to come here. Groups of three or five came to forage pigweed and pick wild vegetables. Over time, the girls who were about the same age as Su Family's became familiar.
That's why there were people outside looking for You Bao to play:
Two little girls with half-old bamboo baskets stood at the river base outside Su's house and shouted, "You Bao! Let's go pick wild vegetables!"
While You Jin trio went to the city to earn money, it was You Bao who had been staying at home to help Mrs. Su with chores. She was the first to meet the little friends in the village.
Hearing the calls of her little friends, You Bao pushed aside the bowl after eating and then hurried outside with the basket on her shoulders. She didn't forget to explain to Mrs. Su: "Mother! I'm going with Xiao Hua and the others to pick wild vegetables!"
Mrs. Su, who was playing with the baby in the main room, responded in acknowledgement. Seeing that her child found a playmate, she was delighted. It went without saying she wouldn't stop her daughter from going out.
The twins were over three months now. Because You Jin cooked fish soup for Mrs. Su every two days, Mrs. Su had enough milk. The two babies grew up fast. From their fairness and plumpness, one couldn't see any sign of their initial sallowness and thinness. Back then, Mrs. Su herself was worried that the two babies wouldn't be able to survive. Now they looked fair like jade and cute.
After working in the field for nearly an hour, You Jin returned home with a hoe on her shoulders. The sun had already slanted to the west. Looking at the house not far away where the smoke was already rising, You Jin couldn't help smiling. The disastrous scene at home began again.
Besides You Zhu cooking with Mrs. Su every afternoon, what other disastrous scene could there be? At this time of day, the entire Su Family was on high alert. One time, You Zhu almost burned the kitchen down!
In the kitchen, You Zhu grumpily looked at You Yin, You Luo, You Chou who were outside watching the fun. Hands on her hips, she pretended to be angry and said, "You don't want to eat tonight!? If you irk me again, I won't give you anything to eat today!"
"Third Elder Sister, isn't it Mother who cooks all the meals in our house?" You Ling stood on the porch and merrily said, "Eldest Sister said we should keep an eye on you. If our house is burned down, we will have to sleep on the street."
"Just you wait. I will cook delicious dishes!" You Zhu had the most unyielding temperament. She knew that her family members weren't deliberately laughing at her and was aware of her own shortcomings. No matter what she wanted to change it!
"Enough you guys. Don't tease You Zhu. Are little Eighth and Kang-er awake inside?" A squeak sounded. You Jin had returned. The family's spirited grown pups saw its master coming back and immediately happily ran over and circled around her.
Harassed by the few puppies, You Jin felt helpless. She merrily spoke: "Alright, let me put things down first."
The family's four dogs used to have black and shiny fur. Now they grew up, one can gradually see they were the seedlings of wolf dogs. Because You Jin took them out for systematic training every day and they were fed by You Jin every day, the pups were the closest to You Jin.
After putting away the hoe, she went to the kitchen to pick up the pot of raw meat and bones she had prepared. Afterward, she took the four ecstatically happy dogs and the few drama-watching little ones at home out for training.
After more than a month of training, the dogs had been able to understand the basic commands. Seeing the tattered-from-vicious-biting sackcloth bag, You Jin was very confident in training them to be skilled housewatchers.
Su Family's life was getting more and more prosperous. Everything was going in a good direction. Even You Zhu can fry a fish that wasn't black charcoal now.
Su Family's sour plum soup had a small reputation in Luohe Prefecture. In the past, it took nearly two hours to sell out the two large barrels of sour plum soup. Now it was gone in less than one hour. That was why You Zhu and You Yin went home to fetch the two barrels hanging from the well when the first batch of the day was almost sold out. Now, at least four barrels of sour plum soup can be sold a day. On top of that, there were cheap and tasty snacks like sweet bean pudding and sesame crisps made by Mrs. Su. Business was booming every day.
Although the business was good, the handsome young man in white clothes on a white horse from last time didn't show up again. You Jin felt that it was a slight pity in her heart. After all, it was the first time You Jin saw such a handsome boy!
Back to Xiao Lin Feng. He had it terrible now. Since he was almost beaten up by some bums when he went out last time, the news was sent back to the capital. An urgent letter from his ancestor arrived- strictly ordering him to not go out without permission. Nowadays, he had to bring six or seven guards with him when he goes out. This made him want ot pull his hair.
"Young Master, don't make things difficult for us servants. Ancestor said that whoever dares to let you out by yourself can wash their necks and return to the capital to die!" In the villa, Yan Zheng started a tug-of-war with his master, which had lasted for several days.
Xiao Lin Feng came to Luohe Prefecture because his eldest brother wanted to come back to their hometown to handle some affairs. He had spent a lot of effort. He begged his parents and his elder brother to speak for him. Only then, Ancestor reluctantly nodded and allowed him to come. He thought that once he arrived in Luohe Prefecture, he would be able to fly freely. Unforeseen, it didn't go according to plan. The first time he went out, he suffered.
Irritated, Xiao Lin Feng knocked Song Yan on the head with the folding fan in his hand: "I'm your master! Ancestor is far away in the capital. His eyes and hands can't reach here. What are you afraid of?"
Song Yan touched the place that was hit by Young Master. He helplessly sighed. His young master! If Ancestor's eyes and hands aren't long, why did the letter from the capital arrive in less than two days after your accident? But he didn't dare to tell the truth. Persuasion was the only option: "Young Master, right now Eldest Young Master hadn't restricted you from going out. Just bring the guards with you and you can go out!"
Xiao Lin Feng grumpily stared at the seven or eight guards standing like logs outside the hall. He was a man. Not a woman! Why did he need to bring so many guards when he went out? This man obviously forgot that he was surrounded by three hooligans a few days ago and got rescued by a little girl one year younger than himself.
Although Xiao Lin Feng lost interest in going out for fun, he didn't forget the sour plum soup he was thinking about. So he sent Song Yan to buy a bucket of sour plum soup. Yes, a bucket.
Song Yan stood beside the sour plum soup stall that his young master ordered and looked at the people behind him who were still queuing up to buy sour plum soup. Braving himself, he said "Little miss, how much money does this bucket of sour plum soup cost?"
"A barrel?" You Jin looked at him with some doubts, "Brother, you mean a barrel, right?"
It wasn't that You Jin had never sold takeaway goods before, but this was the first time for a barrel.
Song Yan felt a little shy under the gaze of the crowd. Stil, hel nodded: "How much money? Is one coin enough?"
Taking in regular customers within the numerous queuing people and then eyeing half a barrel of sour plum soup left on her stall, You Jin answered, "Brother, I have less than one barrel left today. Besides, if you buy it out, the people behind will have nothing. Why don't you give me the address and I'll send a bucket over tomorrow morning?"
"How can you just come and buy a barrel of it! We have been queuing for such a long time!" Some of the people behind had heard the servant in the front making a request to take everything. They weren't willing.
"That's right! It's not like we can't afford the money! You can't do such things!" It was blazing hot. The sun was so big and they had lined up here under the sun just to drink a bowl of Su Family's sour plum soup. Now that someone suddenly popped up and took everything, no one would be happy.
Chapter 57. Foolish guy with lots of money
Song Yan grew up under Xiao Family's firm and fair house management. He had never done anything like forced transactions. How can he withstand others' remarks of him? His fair little face was already flushed with embarrassment. However, the task entrusted to him by Young Master wasn't completed. If he doesn't die, he would have to lose a layer of skin when he goes back! So he had to bite the bullet and ask for it.
You Jin was also in a bit of a dilemma. Although it would be a pity to miss out on such a big business, it would be a bit of a loss to offend the main source of customers for a single big business. So she took a step back: "Brother, how about this? I'll sell you a jar today and you give me the address. I'll send you a barrel early in the morning tomorrow?"
Seeing her like this, Song Yan had no other choice but to buy a small jar and go back to satisfy the young master's cravings first: "Little girl, then you must deliver it to me tomorrow. Send it to the household in Yuqian Alley on the East side. "
"Okay! Brother, take it easy. I'll send it over in the morning." You Jin swiftly filled up a jar of sour plum soup. Including the jar, she charged him a total of twenty-five wen for the sour plum soup. She jollily bidded Song Yan goodbye.
The customers in the back also drank Su Family's sour plum soup, which was called the best in Luohe Prefecture. All were quite satisfied: "Su Family's lass, your business is getting bigger and bigger!"
"Because of everyone's help on a daily basis, we can earn a small amount of money. How can it be considered a big business?" You Jin scooped up the last bowl of sour plum soup in the wooden barrel and smilingly handed it to the last guest.
Although You Jin said it like this, You Jin was calculating when she would set up a small storefront. In summer, they could sell some heat-reducing food. In the winter, they could sell some noodles and steamed buns. It will be better than farming.
But right now, there were two obstacles to opening a shop. One was that there was no money. The family's money was currently kept by You Jin. The sum on hand was only three to forty liang. In Luohe Prefecture, the annual rental price of storefronts with better locations were at least a few dozen liang. It was really unaffordable. Second, there was no manpower. Su Family currently consisted of old, weak, women, and children. The best cook, Mrs. Su wasn't in good health. On top of that, there were two babies who were still in their infancy. How can she free her hands to devote into cooking?
So she can only think about this idea. For now, sell sour plum soup with peace of mind. Once the money is gathered, plans can be made then!
After selling the sour plum soup, it was home time. You Jin trio first busied away on making the sour plum soup that will be sold tomorrow. The three sisters had learned how to make sour plum soup from Mrs. Su. Mrs. Su had it a lot easier now.
After making the sour plum soup and the sun wasn't that blazing, You Jin went to the mountain alone with a basket on her back to find traces of licorice. Licorice was an indispensable ingredient for making sour plum soup. In order to save money, the licorice Su Family used was all dug from the mountain.
You Yin and You Zhu were at home helping Mrs. Su to prepare the pastries that will be sold tomorrow. Su Family's pastries were easy to sell now. They were sweet and soft. On top of that, the price was more than half cheaper than that of snack shops. That was why they sold out in half an hour.
Mrs. Su skillfully kneaded the dough. A faint smile was on the corner of her mouth. She never dared to dream of the current lifestyle. In the past at Yue's house, it wasn't that she didn't show off her skills. She had cooked delicious dishes to please old Mrs. Chen's liking. At the beginning, it worked. But once she couldn't bear any sons and only daughters one after another, she was blamed for wasting food at home. It was really unbearable to recall.
Now everything was fine. Her health improved. The smiles on the faces of her daughters were brighter and brighter. All of them had grown a lot taller and gained weight. She can even do her favorite thing in the kitchen. All of this was thanks to the presence of You Jin.
Back to Xiao Lin Feng's side. After Song Yan bought back the sour plum soup, he merrily drank two bowls. His appetite for dinner improved a lot. He ate half a bowl more than the previous two days. This made Eldest Son, Xiao Lin Yu feel it was a bit miraculous. He clipped eight-treasure duck for his younger brother: "What? You figured it out this time?"
Xiao Lin Feng disgruntledly glared at his eldest brother: "Old Ancestor isn't here. Eldest Brother, can't you just turn a blind eye?"
If Eldest Brother hadn't ordered it, would he be able to sneak away?
It seemed that his anger hadn't dissipated yet. A knowing smile appeared on the face that was about 70% similar to Xiao Lin Feng's. Xiao Lin Yu put down his chopsticks and said, "Old Ancestor's meaning is for you to return to the capital immediately. If I didn't take care of you, you would be in the capital now."
Lin Feng was old Ancestor's most favorite. How could old Ancestor not be anxious when such a big incident happened? However, he felt that his younger brother was almost thirteen now. It was about time for him to come out and suffer a bit. He couldn't let his family protect him for the rest of his life, right? Therefore, the person sent by old Ancestor was stopped. Xiao Lin Yu let him stay in Luohe Prefecture.
Xiao Lin Feng curled his lips. No wonder! He thought old Ancestor's charitable heart had appeared. It never crossed his mind that it was Eldest Brother who pleaded for him. Thinking of how he threw tantrums with Eldest Brother every day these days, Xiao Lin Feng felt a little guilty. He stretched out his hand to beckon Song Yan and whispered a few words in his ear. Song Yan bowed his body and repeatedly said yes before retreating.
After a while, Song Yan came over with two bowls of sour plum soup that had been chilling in the ice cellar for a long time: "Eldest Young Master, Youngest Young Master."
It turned out that Song Yan was sent to pick up the remaining sour plum soup that he bought today.
Looking at the unknown liquid contained in the small and exquisite white jade bowl, Xiao Lin Yu smelled a sour smell: "Sour plum soup?"
Seeing the faint dislike on Eldest Brother's face, Xiao Lin Feng felt a little unhappy. He had contemplated a long time before allowing to give Eldest Brother a bowl. He actually disdained it! He spoke: "Eldest Brother, if you don't want it, give it back to me."
Xiao Lin Yu was seven years older than Xiao Lin Feng. As the eldest son in the family, he bore a heavy burden. He had received the most rigorous education since little. His personality was on the mature side. Unlike Xiao Lin Feng, who grew up loved and held in the palm of his family since little. Still, Xiao Lin Yu loved this little brother dearly. Seeing his unhappy face, he picked up the bowl of sour plum soup that he somewhat disliked and drank it a mouthful.
"How is it? It's delicious!" Seeing Eldest Brother nodding in satisfaction, Xiao Lin Feng proudly raised his head with his hands on his hips, "I bought this with great difficulty!"
With a faint smile on Xiao Lin Yu's face, he responded, "It's not bad."
Xiao Lin Feng knew that Eldest Brother had eaten a lot of good food and there wasn't much food that could match his taste. To get such an evaluation from him was even less. He proudly straightened his waist and asked for credit with a vibe saying 'it's all thanks to me'.
As Younger Brother's temporary guardian, Xiao Lin Yu naturally knew why Younger Brother went out that day. At that time, he was also curious about the sour plum soup that made foodie younger brother, who was used to eating delicacies from all over the world, sneak out. Now he tried it, it was truly good.
The two brothers talked and chatted with each other. Xiao Lin Yu promised to take him out of the city in two days. Xiao Lin Feng's two days of bad mood from the bad luck dissipated.
Early the next morning, Su sisters went to the city to sell sour plum soup again. First, the two barrels to be sold today were put on the mobile stall they normally set up. You Jin left some instructions to the two sisters before sitting on Uncle Niu's ox cart to Yuqian Alley in the East side to deliver the agreed one barrel of sour plum soup.
At this time, Xiao Manor's villa, the front yard and the back kitchen were busying away in an orderly manner. Xiao Family's Eldest Young Master had to go out at the three quarter every day. The back kitchen who was in charge of meals was naturally busy preparing delicate and delicious breakfast for their master.
At the same moment, Xiao Family's youngest young master was still soundly asleep in the bed. While Eldest Young Master had finished grooming. With his slender and white hands, he casually picked up a jade hairpin and fixed it like a waterfall blue silk. He changed into a stone-blue gown with bamboo leaf pattern. Who knows how many girls' hearts were captured by those star-like eyes. He was truly a jade-like gentleman.
When You Jin delivered the sour plum soup to Xiao Family's entrance, Xiao Lin Yu had already finished his breakfast and got into the carriage. Hearing the movement at the gate, he stopped the carriage: "What's going on outside?"
The study attendant sitting outside the carriage answered: "Replying to Eldest Young Master, the sour plum soup's place sent a girl to deliver."
It must be the person who saved Youngest Brother that day. Xiao Lin Yu lifted the curtain of the carriage and looked at the entrance. A little girl who was only eleven or twelve years old in a bamboo green top and skirt entered sight. She actually subdued three grown men and rescued Lin Feng. Inexplicably, he felt a little appreciation for the little girl.
He beckoned to a young attendant who was guarding the door: "Go to the accounting and pay her fifty silver liang."
Treat it as a reward for saving his ignorant younger brother. After giving the order, he signaled the carriage to continue.
You Jin, who was waiting at the gate of Xiao Family's entrance, received fifty silver liang in one go. You Jin, who had experienced a lot in the past, couldn't help but drop her mouth open in surprise. What? Were rich people so good at playing now? A barrel of sour plum soup cost seventy or eighty yuan at most. He gave her fifty liang? Although You Jin wanted to accept it, but her conscience won't allow it: "Brother, our sour plum soup isn't worth this price..."
The young man smiled slightly and said, "Little girl, you are lucky. This was personally instructed by our Eldest Young Master. Since it is for you, you should accept it."
Although You Jin wanted to ask if their family's Eldest Young Master number-blind, she wisely swallowed the words in and gave her thanks. After receiving the money, she came out of Xiao's house. She still need to go back to the stall and sell the remaining sour plum soup!
As for Xiao Lin Feng who didn't wake up until the sun was up. After washing, he drank a small bowl of iced sour plum soup. It was served with the sweet bean pudding and sesame crisps that You Jin sent today. He contentedly sighed.
"I didn't expect that there are still some edible things in this small broken place!" One bite after another, the small plate of sweet bean pudding was demolished in a short while. Xiao Lin Feng smacked his lips with craving. Afterward, he instructed Song Yan to go tomorrow and buy some snacks.
As for You Jin. In an instant, she got fifty silver liang. More than double of their savings. Even You Jin couldn't believe it. A barrel of sour plum soup plus some inexpensive snacks were exchanged for fifty liang. Who would believe this?
In order to avoid causing unnecessary panic and speculation in the family, You Jin tactfully put the matter aside and did what She should do every day. However, she began to pay attention to whether there was any place available for renting in Luohe Prefecture. After all, they were rich~~
Chapter 58 Little beggars
After selling out the sour plum soup brought out today, You Jin sisters quickly packed up the empty barrel and bowls one by one. You Zhu caught a glimpse of the two familiar figures not far away and patted You Jin: "Eldest Sister, look. Those two little beggars are here again."
It all started when You Jin was buying meat buns last time and saw the little beggars who were caught in the act of stealing. Despite being beaten to the ground by the bun seller, they didn't utter a word. Unable to bear it, You Yin begged You Jin to save the two of them.
Since then, the two little beggars had been guarding not far from their stall every day, neither coming over nor speaking. Just watching from a distance. You Yin looked at a beggar who was about twelve or thirteen years old and the other was about four or five years old. Their original skin color could no longer be seen. The little beggars were covered in dirt. She couldn't help but continue to sympathize: "Eldest Sister, why don't we help them!"
You Jin sighed, and said: "You Yin, we don't have it easy either. Our family of ten needs to eat. Do you think we have spare money to do good deeds?"
"But they are really pitiful!" You Yin knew that the situation at home wasn't great. But when she saw the two little beggars who depended on each other, she would think of the hardships she and her sisters had experienced in Yue's house. All in all, she somewhat couldn't bear it.
"Eldest Sister, why don't we help them!" Even Xiao Zhu beside her couldn't help but say a few words: "When I look at them, I think that when we were still in Cuifeng Village. If it wasn't for Eldest Sister protecting us, how can we reach here today? The older beggar would be better off alone than with a burden. But he didn't leave the little one alone. Just like Eldest Sister didn't leave us!"
Looking at the two sisters who have already stood on the united front, You Jin couldn't help but sigh. Should she feel proud or helpless? The proud thing was that the two younger sisters were already very sensible and knew how to use persuasion language on others, but what made her helpless was that the receiving end was her!
Under the pleading eyes of the two sisters, You Jin sighed in admission of defeat: "Okay, I admit defeat."
She took out ten wen from her bosom and said, "Here you go."
"Eldest Sister, you are so nice!" The two sisters cheered and took the copper coins handed over by You Jin. Then they walked towards the two little beggars with a smile and stopped when they reached them: "Here, take it. Buy something to eat!"
Seeing them coming over and handing many copper coins to him, the two little beggars were taken aback for a moment. Then the older one shook his head, dragged the younger one back a few steps, turned, and ran away.
Neither of You Yin sisters expected such an ending. They couldn't help being stunned, The two sisters looked at each other in blank dismay. Were they scary? Not far away, You Jin witnessed the two little beggars running away. The smile on her face was reduced by three degrees. The beggars who didn't want money were either stupid or have ulterior motives. After comforting the two younger sisters who came back downcast, the three sisters went home together.
What the three sisters didn't notice was far behind them, the two little beggars who had run away returned to their original places and watched their leaving figures.
"Elder Brother, I'm hungry!" The younger one was crying. One hand was held tightly by his Elder Brother, while the other rubbed his belly that hadn't eaten all day.
The older beggar came back to his senses and responded, "Xiao Bao hungry? Elder Brother will find you something to eat."
Then he led his younger brother in the opposite direction and looked back at the direction where Su sisters disappeared every few steps.
In Xiao Family's villa, Xiao Lin Feng didn't eat much today. This made the cooks in the back kitchen anxious. If something happened to Youngest Young Master, old Ancestor in the capitol didn't need to call someone. Eldest Young Master would peel off their skins!
After a busy day outside, Xiao Lin Yu returned home. Sitting in the dining room, he washed his hands in fragrant soup. Then he accepted the handkerchief handed over by the maid, but didn't receive the wink from the maid who gave the handkerchief. Looking at the younger brother who was sitting sloppily on the side, there was a trace of displeasure in his voice: "What? I heard that you haven't eaten today. Youngest Young Master, do you want to cultivate immortality?"
The bored Xiao Lin Feng sat slump on the couch. He curled his lips, "This cook's skills aren't really that good. I'm tired of eating it!"
Luohe Prefecture was just a separate villa of Xiao Family. Naturally it can't compare with the capital where everything was complete. For someone like Xiao Lin Feng, who was used to being picky, naturally felt uncomfortable.
"If you really want a high bed with soft pillows and good food, how about I arrange someone to take you back to the capital tomorrow?" Xiao Lin Yu put down the Ru ware celadon cup in his hand and solemnly looked up at his younger brother.
Although Xiao Lin Feng was arrogant, he had the advantage of being able to read people's eyes. Seeing how obvious Eldest Brother's displeasure was, he immediately sat up straight and shook his head repeatedly: "No, no need. I was just casually saying. Eldest Brother must be tired after traveling all day. Hurry up and bring in the meal!"
The servants outside were also quick. In a short while, six dishes and one soup filled the round table. In front of his Eldest Brother, Xiao Lin Feng didn't dare to say he didn't want to eat. He obediently took a white jade porcelain bowl and ate every mouthful.
"What? Didn't you get someone to send a barrel of sour plum soup to the mansion today? Still suffering the bitter summer after drinking so much?" Xiao Family never had a rule of not talking when eating. Seeing his depressed appearance, Xiao Lin Yu thought it was because he was still suffering a bitter summer.
The whole Xiao Family knew about Xiao Lin Feng's bitter summer. In summer, the courtyard where Xiao Lin Feng lived used the most ice. He ate the most heat-reducing food. This time when Xiao Lin Yu went north to Luohe Prefecture, Xiao Lin Feng hollered to come to Luohe Prefecture to chill from the summer heat. Old Ancestor felt distressed for him and let him go to Luohe Prefecture with him.
Xiao Lin Feng lowered his head in guilt, not daring to tell his Eldest Brother that he didn't want to eat because he ate too many snacks today. Remembering that his Eldest Brother also found the sour plum soup good yesterday, he quickly asked Song Yan to serve him another bowl of sour plum soup: "Eldest Brother must be exhausted. Drink more to relieve fatigue."
Xiao Lin Yu had a smile in his eyes. To say that this young man was naughty and irritating, he was indeed sometimes irritating. However, to say he was sweet, sometimes he was really soothing.
Seeing that Eldest Brother drank half a bowl today, Xiao Lin Feng had a sudden thought: "Eldest Brother, if our restaurant also had this recipe, wouldn't it be possible to earn a lot of money?"
Xiao Family had a large family business. It went without saying they also dipped in restaurants and the catering sector. Yunweixuan in Luohe Prefecture was one of Xiao Family's businesses.
How could Xiao Lin Yu not know Youngest Brother's thought. Buying the recipe to make money was just an excuse: "Buying the recipe to make money is a lie. You are afraid that you won't be able to drink this sour plum soup when you go back to the capital, right?"
Having his inner thought exposed, Xiao Lin Feng laughed a bit in embarrassment. Then he begged: "Eldest Brother! Think about it. That little girl doesn't even have a storefront. She just peddle on the street. Only a few barrel can be sold a day. If it's sold in their restaurant, wouldn't it be worth dozens or even hundreds of times more?"
Xiao Lin Yu picked up the bowl with the remaining half of sour plum soup and drank another sip. Indeed. Although this soup was profitable, it can't stand against the huge demand. Xiao Family had more than a dozen restaurants in Dafeng. Dafeng's summer was blazing hot. If every one of the restaurants gained an extra secret recipe, the business won't be lacking. But that recipe must be a treasure the little girl's family depends on for survival. Willingness to sell it or not was another matter!
His silence made Xiao Lin Feng become a little anxious: "Eldest Brother, don't you find what I said reasonable?" Hurry up and agree!
"Alright, wait until I meet that little girl in two days." Xiao Lin Yu was a businessman. It went without saying he wouldn't miss the business opportunity. Smilingly, he nodded. If this worked out, it will be a good thing for their family's business, right?
Three days later, at the busy market, Su Family's sisters sold out today's sour plum soup and were packing up to go home when two men dressed in good quality servant attire came to the front of the stall. You Jin thought they were here to buy sour plum soup and smilingly informed them: "I'm really sorry. It's all sold out today, come back tomorrow."
One of the attendants with a baby face smiled kindly: "Little girl, we aren't here to buy sour plum soup. My family's master wants to invite Miss to Yunweixuan to discuss matters."
You Jin was a little puzzled. Frowning, she asked, "Your family's Master?"
She probably hadn't offended any rich people, right? These two servants were dressed much better than themselves. Since the servants were this rich, how rich was the master? "What is this about?"
Seeing her defensive reaction, the servant responded with a smile: "Little girl, my family's master said that he has a business deal with you. My master's surname is Xiao."
As soon as he said his surname was Xiao, You Jin thought of that rich foolish person from the other day. Correction, the rich and powerful Xiao Family. Xiao Family wanted to negotiate business with her? Although You Jin was a little skeptical, she still went. After all, she was an idiot if she didn't earn when the opportunity arose. On top of that, Yunweixuan's Second Master Huang was an acquaintance. Nothing bad should happen.
Turning around, she explained to her two younger sisters: "Go to the south city gate and find Uncle Niu to take you back first. I will go back by myself later."
Although it was said to be a business discussion, who knows if it was true or not. Better let the two younger sisters go first.
"En! Eldest Sister, don't worry!" You Yin and You Zhu had no doubts. After all, it wasn't the first time that Eldest Sister delivered sour plum soup to them. In addition, the two guys in front of them didn't look like bad guys. So the two sisters raised the empty barrel and obediently left.
Seeing the two children leave, You Jin smiled and turned to them, "I'm really sorry. Let's go now."
The little servant smiled and didn't say anything. They led the way and arrived at the entrance of Yunweixuan in a short while. At this time, Xiao brothers were waiting in the private room on the second floor.
Today, Xiao Lin Feng knew that his brother was coming to Yunweixuan. He caused a ruckus to follow him. He was really tired of the skills of the two cooks in the villa. So he pestered and swore not to cause trouble for Brother. Only then, Xiao Lin Yu reluctantly agreed to take him out.
Chapter 59. The recipe
After entering Yunweixuan, Second Master Huang, who hadn't been seen for a while, was standing guard at the stairs. Upon You Jin's arrival, he clapped his hands and said, "It turns out to be Su Family's lass!"
When his family's master came and said that someone was coming over for a discussion, Second Master Huang was tremblingly staying guard at the stairs out of fear of neglecting Master's distinguished guest. Who would have thought that Xiao Family's two servants would bring over an old acquaintance, Su Family's lass.
You Jin merrily bowed to Second Master Huang, "Second Master, I haven't seen you for a few days. Your complexion is even more rosy!"
"Lass, you haven't come here for a while. I heard that you are famous for selling sour plum soup at the entrance of the market. Why didn't you bring me a bowl when you came here?" Second Master Huang had been in Luohe Prefecture for so many years. Naturally, he has his own connections. Although he didn't take a fancy to Su Family's small profits, Second Master Huang was naturally discerning when it comes to delicious food.
While the two were talking, Second Master Huang led her to the private room on the second floor. You Jin smiled and said nothing. However, she was guessing in her heart what the origin of Xiao Family was. It seemed they weren't ordinary people.
When they were almost at the door of the private room, Second Master Huang withdrew his smile and respectfully knocked on the closed door three times: "Master, the lass from Su Family has arrived."
"Come in." A very clean and pleasant voice came from the room. Only then, Second Master Huang slightly opened the door on the right: "Su Family's lass, go in."
You Jin nodded slightly and gave thanks. After stepping over the threshold and entering, Second Master Huang closed the door from the outside.
"Miss Su, please sit down." Passing around the agarwood screen at the door, she finally saw the person who arranged to meet her here today. He turned out to be about eighteen or nineteen years old, wearing a bamboo green gown embroidered with cloud patterns. There was a gentle smile and warmth in his starry eyes. The plumpness was just right. A gentleman with unblemished and vermilion lips that carried faint mirth.
It was the first time for You Jin to see such a good-looking man. She couldn't help but take a second look. Xiao Lin Feng who was wearing a flamboyant scarlet gown beside him, was a little unhappy: "Little lass, don't just look at my eldest brother ah!"
Being exposed on the spot, You Jin blushed. She showed an apologetic smile to Xiao Lin Yu in embarrassment before glaring at the formerly white horse riding youth with flirty air. In fact, she saw Xiao Lin Feng as soon as she came in. Not at all a seductive beauty. What was there to see with his seedling radish?
Xiao Lin Yu acted as if he hadn't noticed the brow exchange between the two children and poured a cup of tea for You Jin with a smile: "Miss Su, please sit down."
You Jin didn't learn the etiquette of a major household's miss. She just cupped her hands and said: "Thank you, Gentleman."
Then she sat down politely: "I don't know why Gentleman called me here?"
Looking at the little girl who was neither humble nor overbearing, Xiao Lin Yu felt inexplicably appreciative of her. And because she saved Lin Feng last time, he liked her even more: "Last time Lin Feng caused trouble and Miss's action was of great help. I thank you, Miss."
"It was clearly me who saved her, okay?" On the side, Xiao Lin Feng disgruntled hollered at Eldest Brother who was 'twisting the facts'.
Xiao Lin Yu raised his eyes to look at his younger brother and amusedly spoke: "You don't even know how to fight, how can you save people?"
Then he turned to You Jin and apologized, "I'm sorry Miss Su. Youngest Brother is young and ignorant. Pardon the offense."
It turned out that having an ignorant younger brother in the family was like this! Looking at him and then thinking back on the sensible girls in her family, You Jin suddenly felt that she was in blissed. However, she got to save some face for others: "It's fine. That day, it was him who help out first."
Although she can solve the three ruffians with his interference, You Jin knew that it would hurt the mischievous child's heart.
After the two exchanged a few words of pleasantries, Xiao Lin Yu got to the point: "I invited Miss here today because I have a business that I want to talk about with Miss. I wonder if you can bear to give up your sour plum soup recipe?"
It turned out to be a recipe buyer! You Jin slightly raised her eyebrows. Her mind couldn't think for a moment. She smilingly answered: "It's not difficult to give up, but I wonder how sincere Gentleman Xiao can be?"
Seeing her money-loving reaction, Xiao Lin Yu couldn't help smiling slightly. This little lass was really different from ordinary country girls. She was bold enough and greedy enough. He threw the ball back to her court: "Please do tell how much Miss Su thinks it's appropriate?"
One big and one small fox exchanged blows. Neither was in a hurry. While Xiao Lin Feng, who was watching the fun, was very anxious: "Little lass, just because I saved you, sell the recipe to us! Eldest Brother won't let you be at a disadvantage!"
Then he winked at Xiao Lin Yu: "Eldest Brother, right?"
Xiao Lin Yu coughed twice in embarrassment. This younger brother was really going to put him in a pit. How can he help the seller to raise the price when he is buying something for their family? The gentle smile still remained on his face: "Miss Su, why don't you make an offer?"
You Jin pondered for a while before slowly raising her right hand and spreading her five fingers: "What do Gentleman think?"
You Jin admitted that she was opening a lion's mouth. But since they dared to buy the recipe, they must have been mentally prepared?
Although there were suspicions of extortion, the price was indeed within Xiao Lin Yu's acceptance range. He had calculated it before coming here. As long as he gets the recipe, it won't take a summer to earn it back. It was at least double or triple times more. So after thinking for a while, Xiao Lin Yu nodded and agreed: "Sure."
Not bargaining? You Jin froze for a moment. Were there so many wealthy people in Dafeng? Had she known this earlier, she would have called out more! Missing the opportunity to slaughter the fat sheep, You Jin felt sad in her heart. Then sudden thought of her family relying on this recipe to make money. So she hurriedly said: "Gentleman Xiao, I have a request."
"Miss Su, do speak." Lightly waving the folding fan in his hand, Xiao Lin Yu faintly smiled at her. His gentle and jade-like appearance made You Jin feel a little guilty. But for her family, she'll eat this big cake just this one time! "The recipe can be sold to you, but our family will finish with this business this summer, how about it?"
Naturally, Xiao Lin Yu wouldn't refuse such a small request. How much business can her mobile stall snatch? Furthermore, his own business was targeted at dignitaries and nobles. The customers of Su Family were mainly ordinary people.
Since both parties had no objection, Xiao Lin Yu took out a brush and paper and rewrote the agreement. He added the request You Jin had just made. Seeing the nearby You Jin's bright eyes, he reckoned that she was literate. So he handed over the agreement to You Jin: "Miss Su, take a look. If there's no problem, we'll settle this matter like this?"
Unreserved, You Jin accepted it and looked at it. She recognized most of the traditional characters. So she could understand a seller's agreement document. Grabbing a brush, she crookedly wrote 'Su You Jin' and then pressed her fingerprints.
Looking at the ghostly characters that were written worse than when he was three years old, Xiao Lin Yu only smiled faintly. Afterward, he called Second Master Huang, who was guarding outside, to come in: "Uncle Huang, bring five hundred silver over from the accounting."
It went without saying Second Master Huang didn't dare to question his master's words. Saying 'yes', he went out and came back soon. Respectfully, he put five light notes on the table. Seeing that Master didn't have any other orders, he withdrew.
Since the agreement documents were signed and the notes were correct, You Jin embarrassedly smiled, "Gentleman Xiao, my handwriting isn't good. How about I say and you write?"
At the side, Xiao Lin Feng rushed to speak first: "I'll do it. I'll do it!"
His handwriting was very good. Encountering an opportunity to show off his handwriting, he will naturally not miss it.
Naturally, Xiao Lin Yu wouldn't compete with his younger brother for such a trivial matter. The two little babies took turns speaking. In a short while, Su Family's ancestral sour plum soup recipe was given to Xiao Family. Su Family's sisters had all helped Mrs. Su with making the sour plum soup. You Jin had a good memory. On top of that, Mrs. Su and the others had emphasized the ratio of ingredients many times. It went without saying You Jin knew the recipe.
On the side, Xiao Lin Yu listened to You Jin listing the recipe steps. He couldn't help nodding slightly. It turned out that these things were added. No wonder the taste was sweet. Perfectly sweet and sour. It was thirty percent more delicious than the sour plum soup made by the cook in the capital.
Very consciously putting the note into her bosom, You Jin merrily spoke: "Gentleman Xiao, if there was nothing else, I will go back first. There are still many things to do at home."
Xiao Lin Yu nodded slightly, not afraid that what she gave was a fake recipe. Since he could find her to buy the recipe, naturally he would be able to find out where her home was. A girl from the countryside would never have the guts to deceive him.
Her two feet floated out of Yunweixuan. She looked up at the scorching sun hanging high in the sky and couldn't help feeling that life was impermanent. Who would have thought that a girl in her teens would become rich overnight and carry five hundred silver notes?
Today, the money earned from selling sour plum soup was still in You Jin's possession. Recalling the almost empty rice tank at home and how much money she had now, You Jin braved the scorching sun and went to the West Market to buy five jins of high-quality pork belly. Only then, she went home with the heavy meat in tow.
When Su Family's sisters saw Eldest Sister coming back with a huge piece of pork, they were all overjoyed. Even little Seventh snuggled up at Mrs. Su's leg and cutely said: "Mother, little Seventh wants to eat braised pork today! "
"Okay, then let's eat braised pork today." Mrs. Su held and coaxed the energetic little Eighth and nodded in agreement. Then she turned to You Jin: "Didn't you just buy meat yesterday? Why did you buy so much meat today?"
You Jin jollily handed the meat to You Yin who was on the side. Then she accepted a large bowl of cold water that You Zhu had poured and noisily gulped it down: "I have earned money today. So I bought more meat for everyone to eat."
Mrs. Su had heard from the two daughters who arrived home earlier that Eldest Daughter went to discuss business with some rich family. So she thought it was another customer who wanted to order a whole barrel of sour plum soup like yesterday. Somewhat distressed, she said: " That barrel of sour plum soup can't be sold for much money. How can you buy so much meat?"
You Jin just smiled and didn't say anything. It wasn't until the children were asleep that night that You Jin told Mrs. Su the truth: "Mother, I sold our family's recipe. We'll make the sour plum soup this summer and won't do it next year."
As soon as she heard that her daughter had sold the recipe, Mrs. Su couldn't help but anxiously uttered in the quiet night: "The recipe has been sold? Then what will our family do in the future? How do we make money?"
She can't help but blame You Jin a little: "You didn't discuss such a big matter with your family. The bigger you are, the bigger the idea!"
You Jin wasn't angry either. In a hushed tone, she said "Mother, I sold the recipe for five hundred liang!"
"Five hundred liang!" At this moment, Mrs. Su forgot that she blamed her daughter just now and took a deep breath: "How can it sell for so much money?"
"Mother, don't worry so much. Now that the family has money, let's go to the city together tomorrow and check your body at the medical clinic. If not, you will suffer when winter comes." You Jin smilingly comforted Mrs. Su. The mother and daughter talked for a long time before falling asleep.
Chapter 60. Buying medicine purchasing property
Early the next morning, You Jin sisters went to the city to sell their own sour plum soup. When You Yin went back to get the second round of sour plum soup, she brought out Mrs. Su and the pair of twins along, leaving You Bao at home to watch the few younger sister.
This was Mrs. Su's first time entering the city since they moved to Wuliqiao. Sitting on the ox cart and looking at the scenery along the road, it felt like a world away.
Uncle Niu was already very familiar with Su Family. So he directly pulled them to the place where You Jin set up a stall, which saved them from having to bring a few children. Seeing Mrs. Su coming, You Jin rushed to meet her. She stretched out her hand to take the baby in You Yin's arms and then led Mrs. Su to sit nearby in a cooler spot: "Mother, please rest for a while. Wait for us to sell out before going to the clinic."
Mrs. Su nodded slightly: "It's fine. You guys work away first. Don't worry about me. Quickly go serve the guests!"
It turned out that another customer came to buy sour plum soup. Seeing the swift hands and nimble feet and the eloquent appearance of her children, Mrs. Su couldn't help feeling that Eldest Daughter was indeed better at raising children than her, their own mother. Under her teaching, the daughters were much more sensible and smarter than ordinary children of the same age.
Su Family's sour plum soup was now well-known in Luohe Prefecture. And the price was not expensive. Ordinary people can afford it. Many of them drink it themselves and get a takeaway bowl. So You Jin sisters made a rough bamboo bowl from bamboo joints from the mountain. There was no extra cost for takeaway. So more people bought it. The two barrels of sour plum soup were all sold out in less than half an hour.
The mobile stall rented by You Jin sisters was outside a grocery store. The owner of the grocery store was named Li Er Shun. He would ask for some sour plum soup from time to time and You Jin didn't charge him either. The two of them had a happy cooperation.
Seeing her come in with a bowl of sour plum soup, Li Er Shun jollily spoke, "Su Family's lass, you are being too polite!"
He didn't refuse the sour plum soup in her hand.
"Shopkeeper Li, it's thanks to your care that we can set up a stall at your entrance. It's only right." You Jin put the sour plum soup on the counter. Then the simple wooden table fro her stall was brought in and put it in the corner. She smiled and bidded goodbye to him: "Shopkeeper Li, then we'll be leaving first. See you tomorrow."
"Ah!" Li Er Shun smiled and took a sip of the large bowl full of sour plum soup. Then he sighed in content. This damn weather was getting hotter and hotter.
After selling the sour plum soup, the empty barrel was left with Uncle Niu. You Jin had already arranged a pick up with Uncle Niu at the west city gate later. Without the ox cart, they can't go back.
In the medical clinic, an old doctor with a gray beard groaned and finished taking Mrs. Su's pulse. Then he spoke: "There is a serious deficiency inside. The body is empty from the loss. Although there's no serious illness now, there will be in a few years if you don't take care of it sooner. It will also affect longevity."
Mrs. Su was shocked when she heard this. If she died, what would happen to her nine children? You Jin, who was holding Kang-er beside her, also frowned. She solemnly said: "Doctor, what do she need to eat? Tell me. As long as it can nourish my mother healthily, we can spend as much as possible."
Seeing that the whole family was wearing coarse clothes that were washed white, the old doctor sighed. If the woman's illness occurred in a wealthy family, it wouldn't be considered a serious illness. But the family in front of him was obviously a poor family from the countryside. How can they afford it? "One portion of medicine costs one silver. I'll prescribe a few portions for you first. Go back and see it goes."
"It's so expensive!" Mrs. Su exclaimed. Although there was some money in the family now, it was too expensive, wasn't it?
On the other hand, You Jin slightly shook her head: "Doctor, please prescribe enough for a month. We have silver." After saying that, she took out a few pieces of silver from her pocket and put it on the table.
The old doctor and Mrs. Su didn't expect You Jin to take out so much money in one go. Seeing that she was rich, the old doctor nodded, wrote down a prescription, and handed it to the medicine boy beside him: "One portion every day. Go collect a month's worth of medicine."
Then he turned his head and said to You Jin: "Your mother's body had been exhausted for many years, so more nourishing medicines needed to be consumed. Wild ginseng and golden Cordyceps sobolifera are both acceptable, but these two are more expensive. Epecially the golden Cordyceps sobolifera, it is useful to your mother's body. But there are no golden cicadas in our clinic recently."
As soon as You Jin heard this, she asked: "Doctor, what does this golden Cordyceps sobolifera look like?"
If it doesn't work, she can go to the mountain to pick it, right?
The old doctor gave a general description and finally said: "The golden Cordyceps sobolifera grows in the bamboo forest. If you are interested, you can also go to the nearby bamboo mountain to look for it."
The two discussed Mrs. Su's condition for a long time. After checking Mrs. Su, it was the two premature twins' turn. Only then, Su Family came out of the clinic with thirty packs of medicine.
After leaving the clinic, the sun was already high in the sky. The mother and daughters hurried to the grain shop to buy five dou of polished round-grained rice and some coarse grains before rushing home.
Since Mrs. Su also came out today, there was no one home to cook for a while. You Jin led the crowd to a steamed bun stall in the West Market and bought one meat filling for each and a dozen or so vegetable filling.
You Yin, who was following You Jin, saw the two dirty little beggars again. She pulled the Eldest Sister's sleeve to catch her attention: "Eldest Sister..."
You Jin sighed: "Boss, I want two more meat buns."
She handed the two meat buns packed in a big leaf to You Yin, "Go!"
You Yin happily took the buns and quickly walked up to the two little beggars. She directly stuffed the buns into the hands of the older beggars: "Eat it!"
Then she quickly ran back to You Jin and the others and they headed to the south gate. You Yin stealthily turned her head and waved goodbye to the two beggars who were still in a daze.
The little beggar smelled the aroma of the hot meat buns in his elder brother's hand and drooled. He anxiously tugged at his elder brother who was looking far away: "Elder Brother, I want to eat the meat bun..."
It wasn't until Su Family disappeared that the older beggar came back to his senses and shared the hot meat buns with his younger brother. His black and greasy fingers were printed on the skin of buns. To others, it was extremely unappetizing. But the two little beggars ate with relish. A bun the size of an adult's fist was demolished by the two of them in a moment. The little one was still smacking his mouth in reminiscence.
It didn't cost much money for Mrs. Su's check up. Now the family had a total of more than six hundred silver liang. You Jin knew that she should think about what to do next. Although six hundred wasn't a small amount, there were seven younger sisters who were growing up and will get married one after another. The dowry alone can empty out the family fortune!
The swale by the river had been constantly composting. The sunflowers planted on the wasteland have grown a lot taller. The peppercorns planted from before had grown into three-inch-high sprouts. You Jin had planted eight western region's grape seedlings, that were bought from the western region merchant, in the wasteland near the side of the mountain. Now walking by the river, one can see that the former barrenness had become a thriving one.
Looking at the green, flat land on the other side of the river, she thought of the importance of land in this era. She decided to buy more land. Even if it was leased out for planting, it was better than holding money in her hands.
You Jin was a very efficient person. The next morning, after selling the sour plum soup, she went to find the broker surnamed Chen who had helped her buy the house. Broker Chen still had some impressions of this little girl who bought the haunted house in Wuliqiao. When he saw her, he was worried about whether she was here to sell the house. But when he heard that she was going to buy land, he was relieved: "Little girl! How much land do you want to buy?"
"How much is a mu of high-quality fertile land now?" You Jin took a sip of tea from the teacup in front of her and asked the price before deciding how much land to buy.
Broker Chen jollily responded: "Nowadays the top-quality fertile land can be sold for eight silver liang per mu."
Seeing You Jin's eyes widened, Broker Chen explained: "Little girl, it's like this, the price is the price of fertile land near Wuliqiao. If it's too expensive, then choose farther out. Around three kilometer away from Wuliqiao, there are seven silver liang per mu."
The price was indeed a bit high. In Cuifeng Village, the top quality ones were at most five silver liang per mu. Wuliqiao was so much more expensive! You Jin pondered for a while before deciding: "Uncle Chen, how about we go to the field first?"
After comparing, she could make a decision.
You Jin had stayed at Yue's house for eleven years. So she naturally knew how to tell whether a piece of land was high-quality fertile land. Three and half kilometers south of Wuliqiao was a village called Houjiawan. The sixteen mu of fertile land that Broker Chen mentioned wasn't far from the river bend.
You Jin seriously examined and circled around the place Broker Chen talked about. Then she looked at the water canal and personally checked the soil with her hands. She was quite satisfied.
Broker Chen didn't expect the little girl to look at these things. It seemed like he had underestimated her. Now he dared not anymore. Under the sun, he merrily spoke: "Su Family's girl, this place is wonderful. What's rare is that 16 mu of fertile land are connected together. Very convenient to irrigate. And the official road is next to it. Except for the fact that it is far away from Luohe Prefecture, the rest is top-notch. If not, we dare not ask for seven liang per mu, right?"
You Jin nodded. But she didn't say she would buy it right away. She just uttered, "Uncle Chen, let's go back and look at Wuliqiao's side."
Broker Chen understood. After all, buying a field wasn't a trivial matter. So he nodded and the two got on the mule cart and headed back to Wuliqiao. There were only eight acres of fertile land at Wuliqiao. It was just behind the houses on the east side of the river. It was a little distance from Wuliqiao River. Irrigation wasn't as convenient as Houjiawan.
After checking Wuliqiao, You Jin had already made up her mind. It had only been a few months since her family moved to Wuliqiao. It was too eye-catching to buy so much fertile land. If it attracts people with bad intentions, then it'll be trouble. In comparison, Houjiawan had already won.
You Jin and Broker Chen walked in a single file on the edge of the river toward Su's house: "Uncle Chen, can the land in Houjiawan be cheaper?"
"If you take all sixteen mu, how does six liang and seven coins per mu sound?" Broker Chen thought for a while before offering a fairly favorable price: "Miss Su, that land is really nice. It is flat and convenient for irrigation. The rare feature is that it is connected in one piece."
You Jin pushed open the courtyard door. The four dogs who were sitting or lying down in the courtyard immediately became alert. Seeing that it was their master, they all came over wagging their tails. You Jin smiled and waved her hands, signaling them to move away. Then she invited Broker Chen to come in: "It's thanks to Uncle Chen, our family is able to settle down in Luohe Prefecture. Since you're here, come in to rest and drink water."
It wasn't the first time Broker Chen came back to this house. In the past, every time he came back here, he felt a ghostly atmosphere. However, today, he felt that the courtyard's fire of life was burning bright. That desolate ghost house had become a warm and tidy small farmyard. Broker Chen sat on the small stool brought over by You Jin. After taking a sip of Su Family's secret recipe sour plum soup, he sighed in comfort: "It seems that you live pretty well here. You must have a good fate with that girl from Qin Family."
You Jin smiled and didn't comment. She brought the topic back to the field in Houjiawan: "Uncle Chen, the six liang and seven coins per mu is a bit expensive. If the owner is willing to sell for six liang and five coins, then I'll buy them all."
Six liang and coin was longer up to Broker Chen to decide. He pondered and replied: "Alright. I will go to Houjiawan tomorrow and if the owner agrees, I will definitely bring you the letter over."
After the two finished talking, Broker Chen had enough rest. He bidded to You Jin with a smile and promised that he would come back tomorrow afternoon.