Chapter 106 Reunited New Year
Mrs. Han's arrival made the already happy New Year even more complete. You He had too many things to tell Mrs. Han as well as too many things to ask. Liu Zhuo Ting knew what his wife was thinking, so he left You He alone at Wuliqiao and went back to Luohe Prefecture to explain to his parents. Liu Family's two elders knew some details about their daughter-in-law's family. Hearing that their in-laws had come all the way here and knowing that their daughter-in-law was now pregnant, it went without saying they didn't mind about these trivial matters.
Back to Su's house. After chatting with everyone for a long time, Mrs. Han followed the servants arranged by You Jin to freshen up.
By the time Mrs. Han changed into the clean clothes that Mrs. Su had prepared for her, packed up and returned to the main courtyard, the servants of Su Family had already put the dinner on the dining table.
Upon Mrs. Han's arrival, Mrs. Su took her hand and sat her down on the head: "I made these clothes for the winter. I was afraid that it wouldn't fit well. Never thought it would be too big."
Mrs. Han and Mrs. Su's height was about the same, but Mrs. Han's body was curvy and Mrs. Su's was thinner. However, Mrs. Han hadn't had a good life in the past two years and had lost a lot of weight. Mrs. Su was nurtured pretty well in the past two years and had gained a lot of flesh. Mrs. Su's clothes on Mrs. Han was still a little loose.
"It's fine. Tomorrow I'll have someone make two sets of clothes for Third Aunt to wear." You Jin stood beside Mrs. Su and jollily looked at Mrs. Han who was a little bit more energetic: "Third Aunt, live here. You and Mother can be companions."
Mrs. Han was unwilling: "I've already troubled you so much. How can I live and eat for free at your house?"
Since entering the gate of Su's house, she had noticed the second branch's children were all well-raised; clever and beautiful as a doll made by jade. Then looking at the eating utensils and the servants in the courtyard, Mrs. Han knew that if she stayed in Su's house, it would be great. But her heart would never allow her to force repayment for the kindness. On top of that, her two sons were still missing. She was afraid that living in Su's house would cause trouble to Su Family, so she was unwilling to live there.
"Mother, come home with me! Although Liu's house isn't as big as Aunt's, squeeze a bit and it can still accommodate people. I'm about to give birth. With Mother by my side, I can always feel at ease." You He was Mrs. Han's daughter. Naturally, she guessed a little bit of Mrs. Han's thoughts and wanted to bring Mrs. Han back to Liu Family.
When Mrs. Han heard this, she hesitated. She had given birth to three children, so she naturally knew that when a woman gave birth, it was like walking through the gates of hell. Her daughter was spoiled since she was little. If she was not watching by her side, she would feel uneasy.
Seeing that everyone couldn't come up with an idea for a while, You Jin hurriedly beckoned everyone to sit down: "The dishes are all served. Let's finish the meal first and then talk about it! Third Aunt may not have a chance to eat something warm during her journey. Whatever to be discussed can be left after dinner."
As everyone was uncertain and it was indeed time to eat, they all called each other to sit down for dinner. There was no need to mention the joy and harmony in the midst of the meal.
The night was dark. The bustling all day Su's house gradually returned to calm. The front door and the backyard were locked. Only the guards patrolled the outside of Su Family twice. The rest of the people had already entered dreamland in the warm bed.
In the backyard, You He was in her boudoir room in Su 's house before she got married. The bright moonlight shone through the glazed windows like hoarfrost, covering the whole ground. Mrs. Han and You He had laid down early and chatted nonstop. You He had too many questions and wanted to know a lot. So most of the time it was Mrs. Han who whispered. You He was half lying down, with fair jade-like hands supporting the weight of her head. She listened attentively to what her mother said about those people and things in Dingyuan.
"Actually, I had already guessed your father's plan, but was holding a little bit of hope at that time. Not long after you left, your maternal grandmother passed. I thought he would take into account the relationship between us for many years. Never thought he would be this cruel. If I can still see him alive, I will separate with him." Although Mrs. Han was strong, her eyes still reddened when she told her daughter that she was abandoned by her husband who ran for his life: "I just feel sorry for you, Wen Sheng, and Wen Yu."
You He hugged Mrs. Han's arm tightly. The tears in the corners of her eyes swirled a few times in her eyes. Finally, it fell silently onto the soft pillow: "Don't worry, Mother, I will definitely not leave you alone. From now on, you will live with me. I'll take care of you!"
"You silly girl. How can a maternal family member be raised by the husband's family?" It went without saying her daughter being so soothing to the heart made Mrs. Han happy. But for her daughter's sake, she still softly refused: "Mother is still so young now! Haven't reached the point of old age care? Mother still wants to start a small business by myself. If your two younger brothers are willing to follow Mother, Mother will support them to continue their studies!"
Knowing that mother had such a plan in her heart, You He vigorously nodded as if she had found the backbone: "Okay, I still have some money in my hand now. I will give it to Mother when the time comes."
Here Yue Family's mother and daughter were whispering. The other side, Su Family's mother and daughter were also planning for the future of Mrs. Han.
"You Jin, your Third Aunt was picked up by you. You must have a plan for her future, right?" Thinking of her daughter's words and behavior during dinner, Mrs. Su knew that she must have had something on her mind and spoke, "Your Third Aunt is kind to our family, you have to make good arrangements."
You Jin drank a cup of stewed until soft and delicious white fungus soup. She smiled and replied: "Mother, don't worry. Since I brought Third Aunt over, I naturally have my plan. But it's the New Year now. So any arrangement can wait until after the new year, right?"
Mrs. Su knew that the eldest daughter excelled at planning ahead. Now that she said this, she thought that there must be arrangements. So she reminded: "The night is dark. Now that it's New Year, go sleep earlier if you have nothing to do."
"Mother, don't worry. I know." You Jin nodded and called for Qiu Fen to get a lantern and send Mrs. Su back to rest in the main courtyard. She sat down at the desk and continued the unfinished business that she handling before Mrs. Su came.
You He stayed in Wuliqiao until the fourth day of the New Year at the urging of the two elders of Liu Family. Reluctantly bidding farewell to Mrs. Han and Su Family, she returned to Luohe Prefecture.
Standing on the embankment, Mrs. Han watched the wobbling mule cart her daughter was riding towards the city. Once the mule cart turned into a black spot in the distance, Mrs. Han puffed a breath of hot air to warm her frozen hands and turned back to enter the gate of Su's house.
"You Jin, I will find something to do as soon as possible. Then I will move out of your house." Mrs. Han was a little embarrassed. All her savings were secretly given to Wen Sheng. When she came to Luohe Prefecture, she was penniless and couldn't even give second branch's children the red envelopes for the New Year. Now there was only a few liang silver from the daughter in the purse. She could only thicken her cheeks and freeload in Su's house for a while.
Looking at the somewhat inhibited Mrs. Han, You Jin smiled and pulled her to sit down: "Third Aunt thinks that living in our house is uncomfortable and wants to leave in a hurry? I initially have something to trouble Third Aunt. Now you said this, I'm too embarrassed to bother you."
"It's not a bother. Just tell me if you need me for anything and I can help." As soon as Mrs. Han heard that You Jin had something to ask her to help with, she immediately agreed: "However, your Elder Sister You He's matter has already troubled you. I have heard from You He these two days that you spent so much money on her dowry and subsidized her a lot from time to time. Us mother and daughter owe you too much."
"Third Aunt had already said that we are one family. What need is there to clearly separate between family members?" You Jin became more and more satisfied with the behavior of Third Aunt and You He. So she told Mrs. Han about her plan: "Originally I wanted to open another shop in Luohe Prefecture after the New Year. Third Aunt had been doing business with Grandpa Han since young. I want you to be the manager of this new shop. If you really love Niece, you will definitely agree."
"I was doing some errands in the grocery store. Just some small stuff. How can I handle the job?" Mrs. Han thought that it must be Second Elder Sister-in-law who spoke for her. That was why You Jin made this arrangement. Feeling more and more guilty, she spoke: "You Jin, Aunt knows that you have good intentions, but Aunt doesn't think I have much ability. If I thicken my face to agree and then cause you trouble, then I'm really disregarding the family's affection."
Hearing Mrs. Han's response, You Jin became more determined to hand over the new shop to Mrs. Han's management: "Third Aunt, don't you know that finding a trustworthy manager who you know in and out and has a good character and temperament is so difficult? I mean well, but I won't waste my family's money for you. I trust Third Aunt's ability. That's why I brought it up. If Third Aunt is willing, wait until the shop opens after the new year period and try it out for a while. If it really doesn't work, how about we make another plan?"
Seeing You Jin's burning eyes, Mrs. Han felt inexplicably confident and agreed after a short contemplation: "Deal, then I will try."
Mrs. Han wasn't someone without tact. She knew that her niece was doing this for her own sake. Internally vowing, she must take care of the shop after it opens. Only then, it will be worth the kindness of the second branch bestowed to her.
Seeing that Mrs. Han was willing to agree to the matter, You Jin felt even more satisfied with her. She admired Mrs. Han for not dragging her feet or being hypocritical. So she immediately told her about her plans for the new shop.
Now the only relatives Su Family needed to visit was Liu Family. There were also some customers whom they have business dealing with on most days that they needed to visit on the New Year. One was to exchange information. Second, the other was to connect with business people. Since You Jin made up her mind to let Mrs. Han manages the matter of the new shop, it went without saying she will have Mrs. Han accompanies her when she visit around the next few days. Originally, Mrs. Han was still a little uneasy living in Su's house and worried about the whereabouts of her two sons. Now she became occupied and You Jin mentioned more than once that she had arranged for someone to go to Luohe Prefecture to inquire about Wen Sheng and Wen Yu's whereabouts, the melancholy in Mrs. Han's heart had been diluted a bit.
In Luohe Prefecture in the new year, there were still a lot of people talking. Although everyone knew that there was a war in the north, the new year still needed to be passed. When Yue Chang Lu and Yue Chang Shou brothers arrived in Luohe Prefecture, it was already the eighth day of the New Year.
"This Luohe Prefecture is really prosperous!" Wan Niang was sitting on the ox cart holding her three-year-old son. Her eyes kept spinning around like a wheel blown by the wind, completely fascinated by the prosperity of Luohe Prefecture: "Family Head, why don't we stay here?"
Yue Chang Lu brothers drove an ox cart, so they moved slowly. Plus they had to repeatedly stop to rest along the way. Unlike Su Family's coachman who knew the way. That was why they were delayed for a good few days on the road. Now that they arrived in Luohe Prefecture, the two brothers were exhausted. Hearing Wan Niang's proposal, Yue Chang Shou looked at his own Jiao Niang and nodded to Yue Chang Lu. Yue Family's second and third branch temporarily stopped in Luohe Prefecture.
Chapter 107 Dog Eats Dog
The prosperity of Luohe Prefecture meant that the expenses in Luohe Prefecture were also high. Under the influence of Wan Niang's pillow wind in the past three or four years, Yue Chang Lu had saved some private funds. Still, it couldn't withstand the daily expenses of a family of three in Luohe Prefecture. In addition, Yue Chang Shou was a smart person. At that time, he took along Second Elder Brother to have more companions on the road. And if they encountered any danger, he would sell his second elder brother's family. The money was divided very clearly though.
Yue Chang Lu looked at third branch- two adults and two half-grown children. After living in Luohe Prefecture, they could still eat some hot food every day. Unlike his family who could only eat the cheapest three-meal mantou and made do every day. Wan Niang had quarreled countless times with him in private and his precious Wen Bao had cried countless times and wanted to eat meat. Thinking how they were brothers and old Third ate to his content every day while he can only eat half full, Yue Chang Lu felt even more displeased. He silently came up with a scheme on the third branch.
In order to save money, Yue Family stayed in the cheapest resting stop inn in the east side of Luohe Prefecture. Yue Chang Lu made up his mind to get some money from old Third. He didn't bother to find an excuse. There were people coming and going in the resting stop inn. Wasn't it normal to lose money?
That night, after Yue Chang Shou's family turned off the lights and went to sleep, the passageway of the resting stop inn was empty. A figure's shadow submerged into the night and sneaked into Yue Chang Shou's family's temporary stay. But who would have thought that after the praying mantis stalking the cicada and an oriole was in their hind. Not long after Yue Chang Lu entered third branch's room, another black figure came out of the toilet hut and quietly entered Yue Chang Lu's family of three's room.
Because of Wan Niang's acting up and unwillingness to live in a bunk room, Yue Chang Lu reluctantly paid twice the price to live in a small single room. He would never have thought when he went to steal old Third's money, old Third set his eyes on his. Only Wan Niang and less than three years old son were left in the room. That's why it was smooth sail for Yue Chang Shou like a fish in water. But after searching for a long time, he could only find less than two coins. Afraid of making noise in the dark and waking up Second Elder Brother, Yue Chang Shou had no choice but to withdraw his troops after getting the golden eggs. Holding the broken change of silver that was better than nothing, he came out of second branch's room.
"Old Third? Why are you here?" On this end, Yue Chang Lu came back from old Third's room with a full harvest. He happened to see old Third standing at his door looking furtively. So he asked.
Yue Chang Shou, who had a guilty conscience from stealing, got frightened by his second elder brother from behind. He felt the hairs on his back stand on end. With a stiff smile on his face, he stammered, "No, it's nothing. I c, came out of the toilet hut and pass by, pass by."
After saying this, he ignored Yue Chang Lu's gaze of suspicion and went back to his room.
Seeing the guilty look on old Third's face, Yue Chang Lu felt a little suspicion in his heart but he couldn't explain it. He could only temporarily let it drop.
In the early morning of the second day, two roars came from the two rooms respectively: "Which bastard (beast) stole my money?!"
As soon as the words fell, the two brothers opened the doors from different rooms and stormed out angrily. What a frightening sight!
The manager of the resting stop inn looked at the two brothers who wanted to eat him and jollyly spoke: "Two guests, according to the rules of our shop, the property is kept by the owner. If everyone loses money and demands our shop to pay for it like you, should we open and do business?"
The manager of the resting stop inn was someone who had experienced wind and rain. How can he be fooled by these two poor ghosts who fled from the north?
"My money was still on me yesterday. It disappeared when I got up early this morning. If it wasn't you who stole it, then there was a thief among the people who stayed in the inn!" Yue Chang Shou lost five liang silver! That's enough for their family of four to live frugally for a good few months! Although he wasn't the hardworking, thrifty, home-oriented person nowadays, allow him to think so?
"Watch your words, boy?" Most of the people living in the resting stop inn were bodyguards and merchants who come and go. Some of them were violent. Like now. As soon as Yue Chang Shou said this, a square-faced man with a tall wooden stick in his hand stood up immediately. This tiger gaze made Yue Chang Shou's heart shudder for no reason.
"Harmony makes money. Harmony makes money." The manager of the resting stop inn was sandwiched between the three of them. He said a few words to comfort the square-faced man: "It's just that some country folks escaped from disaster. They haven't seen much of the world. Brother Liu, be a bigger person. Why bother with them?"
Seeing the manager meditating, the square-faced man surnamed Liu glared coldly at the Yue Family's two brothers and harrumphed, "I'll give the manager face today. Don't offend me in the future." Here."
With this said, he strode out of the resting stop inn.
Seeing him go, the manager was relieved. Then he turned around and spoke to Yue Family's two brothers: "If it is true that the two of you have lost money, this old man have some friendship with someone in the yamen. How about I ask someone to report to the official?"
"Can't report to the official!" The two brothers yelled at the same time with a guilty conscience. Then they realized that they had made a mistake and changed their words: "I just lost some money. No need to bother the official."
"Yes, yes, no need to bother." Yue Chang Lu licked his dry lips and responded with difficulty. The two brothers fled under the pondering gaze of the manager. Seeing the two brothers' reaction, the manager felt that the two brothers were thieves calling for a thief and wanted to trick him. With this in mind, he considered driving the two families out when the opportunity arrived.
Though Yue Chang Lu brothers were the plaintiffs, they had no intention to report to the official as they were also guilty thieves. Yue Chang Lu's mind turned around: Although he lost two liang silver, he stole five liang silver from old Third. If the official got involved, then the loss outweighs the gain. He found an excuse and went back to the room. Although Yue Chang Shou was frustrated on the inside, he had no other choice. He did hated the thief who stole his money, but he didn't dare to report it to the officials. THis matter could only turn over to a new page now.
Back to Yue Chang Lu who got five liang silver from old Third in one go. The money came so easily that a different idea popped into his mind: he did hard labor on the street and his hard-earned money was only a few silver coins a month. While a night of slip of hand earned him five liang silver! Old Third looked to be glorious on the surface and didn't have much money. But where was this place? Luohe Prefecture! What was never short was rich people!
The more Yue Chang Lu thought about it, the more he felt that this method was feasible. Behind Wan Niang and Yue Chang Shou's back, he went for a walk on Luohe Prefecture street alone.
Now a lot of people who fled from the north poured into Luohe Prefecture. Many people meant many mixes of hands. Yue Chang Lu actually managed to succeed twice. Yue Chang Lu knew that he wasn't excelled at doing such things. So he didn't dare to bump into the rich man as soon as he started. Just stole two ordinarily dressed men. The two liang silver in hand barely satisfied him.
Today, You Yin was given a rare day off by Eldest Sister. So she took her maid to the cloth shop to pick out two bolts of quilted silk to make spring clothes for Han Li. During the New Year, Eldest Sister made her and Han Li's relationship public. Han Li had worked diligently and honestly in the past three years in Su Family. In addition, Han Li made a promise to her that the two will still live with Su Family after they get married but not marry into the female's family. He won't let You Yin be separated from her family. Mrs. Su naturally agreed with this matter.
"Second Miss is so gentle and virtuous. Elder Brother Han is really blessed by three lifetimes of cultivation to enter Miss's eyes." You Yin now had a personal maid named Li Dong by her side. Li Dong had a pair of big round eyes and a chubby little face. It was very pleasing. Now she was chatting nonstop by You Yin's side.
You Yin's hibiscus-like face flushed slightly. She didn't respond to Li Dong's words. She pointed to a piece of indigo-colored quilted silk: "Can I trouble this brother to show me this."
The little attendant from the cloth shop was very discerning. He immediately brought it over: "Young lady has a good eye. This is spring's new stocked material. It is the most suitable for making clothes to wear on the body. It is warm and makes one look energetic!" The attendant heard the little maid mention just now that the girl that dressed like a young miss was going to buy it as a gift for her sweetheart. He brought a piece of bamboo green material out for her to choose: "Miss, look at this. It's excellent quality."
You Yin frowned lightly. She struggled for a while and finally chose another moon-white color. A total of three materials: "Just these three."
After paying the bill, the master and servant left the cloth house with the materials in their hands. The guard that was waiting at the gate of the cloth house immediately came over: "Second Miss."
Then he tacitly took the materials held by the master and servant and followed by You Yin's side.
This was because there were more and more people coming and going from Luohe Prefecture today. Worried for her safety, Eldest Sister specially appointed a guard at home to protect her. She took the guard along.
"Let's go back!" You Yin nodded to the guard. The master and servants trio headed back to the snack shop at an unhurried pace. When there was still a block away from the snack shop, You Yin saw a figure she would never forget in her life, slowly walking towards her from the other side of the street.
"Miss?" Li Dong was the first to notice something was wrong with You Yin. She hurriedly supported Second Miss, whose face turned horribly white in an instant: "Missl, what's wrong? Say something. Don't scare the servant girl!"
You Yin could no longer hear what Li Dong said. The noisy streets of Luohe Prefecture all turned into ethereal winds. In her eyes, she only saw the man with a scar on his face. As if she had returned to Cuifeng Village and at the age when she was beaten and scolded by others. The closer that person got, the more scared You Yin became. It was to the point where her whole body was shaking like a sieve. She only hoped that the person never noticed her.
With two successes, Yue Chang Lu made his way back to West Market in content. Seeing a thirteen or fourteen-year-old somewhat pretty girl staring at him, he dared not openly look over her side out of guilt. He only glanced sideways a few times and vaguely saw that the little girl was well dressed. She must be a miss from a wealthy family. If he succeeds, he will have a lot of money...
The guard also noticed the probing line of sight, directly blocked in front of You Yin, and fiercely glared back at the source. Then he instructed Li Dong without looking back: "I'll watch Second Miss. Go back to the shop quickly and invite Eldest Miss over."
Today, it was Eldest Miss who was supervising in the store. That was why Second Miss have time to come out for a walk.
Receiving a fierce glare from the young man with a sword, Yue Chnag Lu immediately admitted his cowardice and dejectedly walked away; leaving behind You Yin whose back was already drenched in cold sweat.
Li Dong jogged all the way back to the store and soon returned with You Jin. As soon as You Jin came, she saw You Yin in the state like she had gone through the gate of hell and immediately went to support her: "You Yin, Eldest Sister is here. Don't be afraid. Don't be afraid."
"Eldest, Eldest Sister, I, I, I..." You Yin was so frightened that she couldn't finish her sentence.
You Jin made a decisive decision and gave Li Dong a signal gaze. The two of them, one on the left and the other on the right, firmly supported You Yin back to the store. You Jin clung to You Yin's ear and coaxed in a low voice: "Don't be afraid. No matter what happens, Eldest Sister is here."
Fortunately, the place where You Yin's mishap happened wasn't far from Sujiaxiang. The four of them walked less than a quarter of an hour before returning to the store.
She helped You Yin back to the wing room on the second floor and dismissed everyone around them. You Yin, who was forced to drink a few sips of hot tea before recovering, was finally able to calm down a bit. She told You Jin what happened just now.
Chapter 108 Father-Daughter and Mother-Son (Catching Bugs)
"Eldest Sister, Yue Chang Lu, Yue Chang Lu was here!" You Yin's mood had stabilized a lot, but the panic in her heart restrained her so much that she couldn't breathe. She looked at You Jin helplessly: "I saw him! I really saw him!"
You Jin stretched out her hand to hold You Yin's hand tightly and softly comforted her: "It's okay. It's okay. There's Eldest Sister for everything."
A chill gradually condensed in her eyes. Those people from Yue Family would always be a calamity to them. It was time to find a way to end it.
You Yin's mood remained unstable. You Jin had no choice but to get someone to invite the doctor from Ning'an Hall to come and prescribe some calming medicines for her. Then she asked Li Dong to take the medicine to the back kitchen at the back of the shop, stew it, and coax You Yin to drink it.
Half an hour after You Yin drank the medicine, the medicine's effect appeared. She leaned on the couch and fell into a deep sleep shortly later. You Jin fetched a brocade quilt, gently covered her, and ordered Qiu Fen to stay inside and watch over You Yin. She went to the next room, called Li Dong and the guard over, and inquired about the details of what happened today.
Hearing the family's guard roughly describe the appearance of the somewhat suspicious middle-aged man and at mention of a scar on the man's face, You Jin's heart sank: "I see. You two aren't allowed to talk about this matter. Especially to Madam and the misses."
Although they were perplexed, the felt tense when recalling Second Miss's abnormality and Eldest Miss's solemn expression. This matter must be major. So they both bowed and said: "Yes, maidservant (subordinate) understand."
After dismissing the two of them with a wave of a hand, You Jin sat alone in the wing room for a long time. Only when the cup of scented tea that was still full of fragrance turned cold, she finally made up her mind.
It wasn't difficult to find out the whereabouts of Yue Chang Lu brothers. Within half a day, Su Family's guards brought back all the information. Standing in the wing room, Leader Guard Xiao respectfully clasped his hands and reported the news that he had acquired today one by one: "Reporting Eldest Miss, Yue Family brothers have only been in Luohe Prefecture for a few days. The two brothers caused a ruckus about missing money a few days ago. The manager said to report to the officials and the two brothers ran away like thieves with a guilty conscience."
You Jin sat on the main seat. After listening to Leader Guard Xiao's words, her slender index finger with a thin layer of calluses slightly bent and softly tapped the rosewood table in rhythmic motion. After a while, she spoke: "Thank you, Leader Guard. Arrange people to follow Yue Chang Lu these few days. Don't startle the snake and let me know immediately if there is any movement."
Yue Chang Lu came here to seek refugee. He had no background and no influence. It was a matter of minutes for You Jin to deal with him now. Although Dafeng had an open-minded style, loyalty and filial piety were still a core standard. If evidence was left behind and people will find out in the future, You Jin and everyone in Su Family would suffer. The plan for now was to find Yue Chang Lu's vital hit point first and then slowly deal with him.
Back to Yue Wen Sheng brothers, who were forced to flee with their father and came to Luohe Prefecture. Yue Wen Sheng's heart was wavering greatly. He knew that his elder sister was in Luohe Prefecture. If he had to choose between You He and the current Yue Chang Shou, Yue Wen Sheng would choose You He without hesitation.
Along the way, both Yue Wen Sheng brothers behaved obediently. So Yue Chang Shou didn't keep strict supervision on his two sons. On the contrary, he was happy that they weren't in front of his eyes and he could spend time with Jiao Niang. Wen Sheng brothers just left and closed the wooden door where the third branch were now living when a woman's coquettish and frivolous voice sounded from inside.
Although Yue Wen Sheng didn't understand these human affairs, he wasn't a fool. He naturally knew what was going on inside. With a very ugly expression, he dragged his younger brother who was still a little confused and walked out angrily.
But when he got out of the resting stop inn and stood on the streets of Luohe Prefecture where people were coming and going, he realized that Luohe Prefecture was so big that finding someone in Luohe Prefecture was like looking for a needle in a haystack .
Looking at the bustling market, Yue Wen Sheng tugged at the corner of Yue Wen Sheng's clothes curiously and uneasily: "Third Elder Brother, where are we going?"
Yue Wen was born in third in line in Yue Family. Only twelve years old Yue Wen Yu had gone through all these family changes and twists and turns. Now that his mother wasn't around and his father was no longer the doting father, the only person he trusted was his own elder brother.
"Let's go find Mother and Elder Sister." Although he was a little flustered, Yue Wen Sheng's eyes were firm. Mother once told him Elder Sister married into Luohe Prefecture. Before leaving, Mother had told him that she would go to Luohe Zhou Zhou to find Elder Sister. Yue Wen Sheng didn't know that if it was a lie fabricated by Mrs. Han in order to coax him to follow Yue Chang Shou.
When he heard that they were looking for Mother and Elder Sister, Yue Wen Yu became spirited. However, in an instant he was pulled back to reality by the huge Luohe Prefecture: "But Third Elder Brother, this place is so big. How do we search?"
Still, Yue Wen Sheng insisted on looking for them. With decisive steps, he walked forward: "Even if we are looking for a needle in a haystack, we can't give up as long as there is a glimmer of hope. Does Wen Yu want to follow Father?"
Upon hearing Third Elder Brother's rhetorical question, Yue Wen Yu repeatedly shook his head: "I'm with Third Elder Brother."
The two brothers just went from house to house and alley by alley as they walked aimlessly and persistently on the streets and lanes of Luohe Prefecture.
Even though that You Jin kept it from Mrs. Su and the others, she secretly told Mrs. Han about the matter: "Now that Third Uncle and two younger brothers are in Luohe Prefecture, this is the best chance if you want to separate from Third Uncle. what should I do next?" Time was the best time. If Third Aunt wants to break it off with Third Uncle, I will help you one last time."
If Mrs. Han wants to get involved with Yue Family, You Jin will only help her this time for the last time. In the future, it will be each going their own separate way.
After listening to You Jin's words, Mrs. Han made a decision without thinking about it. With a determined expression, she spoke, "I want to separate from Yue Chang Shou."
The love between her and Yue Chang Shou of more than ten years had long faded away when he wanted to push her daughter into the fire pit. Then it completely cut off when he brought that woman in.
"You Jin, Third Aunt wants to ask you one more thing." Mrs. Han stood in front of You Jin, bent her knees, and directly knelt down on the ground: "Can you bring your two younger brothers back to me? Now that Yue Chang Shou acts like a ghost covering his eyes, Wen Sheng and Wen Yu's lifetime future will be at stake if they follow him."
You Jin hurriedly helped her up and sat her back into her seat. She assured in a low voice, "What is Third Aunt doing? I know you miss two younger brothers dearly. Is this not the same for two younger brothers?"
After finishing speaking, she raised her voice and directed to the door: "Bring them in!"
At first, Mrs. Han was perplexed. But when she turned her head and saw the two sons who had lost a lot of weight and were standing at the door in a daze, tears immediately came down: "Wen Sheng! Wen Yu!"
"Mother!" Wen Sheng brothers wandered around Luohe Prefecture for a good few days without finding a single needle. Today, as soon as they went out, they were invited by two men carrying swords to this snack shop that they had passed by several times in the past two days. At the beginning, the two brothers sat anxiously in the next room and didn't dare to taste the freshly baked pastries on the table. They asked the two guards and received no response. Just now, a little maid in green clothes entered and invited them out. The brothers were still a little uneasy.
All the uneasiness disappeared the moment they saw Mrs. Han. Wen Yu was young, so he threw himself into Mrs. Han's arms. His thin small face was stained with tears. He hiccupped while crying: "I, I, I thought I would never see you again, Mother!"
"Silly child, isn't Mother perfectly fine and in front of you?" Mrs. Han lovingly took in the youngest son, wiped away the tears on his face carefully with a handkerchief, and then looked at the eldest son whose eyes were red from repressing himself. She stretched out her hand and said, "Wen Sheng!"
Wen Sheng's eyes were red. He clenched his teeth tightly and walked toward Mrs. Han with heavy steps as if afraid of losing his composure. Mrs. Han took her eldest son into her arms with a distressed heart: "It's been hard on you."
Wen Sheng shook his head slightly. A bean-sized teardrop slipped quietly where no one could see, and seeped into his clothes with no one knowing about it. While searching for news in Luohe Prefecture in the past few days, news of the disastrous defeat in the northern war continued to come in. The sad news of Dingyuan's fall came early this morning. Yue Wen Sheng became even more uneasy. He already suspected that Mother was trying to get them to leave by telling a lie. If my mother was going to leave by herself, why did she give him all the money?
The more Yue Wen Sheng thought about it, the more frightened he became. But he didn't dare to show it. All the uneasiness, regret, and anxiety disappeared the moment he saw Mother. Fortunately, Mother was fine.
Looking at the mother and sons trio who were weeping because of their reunion and thinking about You Yin who had been a little bit out of it these days, You Jin couldn't help sighing. They were also parents. Look at Mrs. Han's reunion with her sons. Then look at Yue Chang Lu scaring You Yin out of her wits. What irony!
While You Jin was in contemplation, Mrs. Han led her two sons and knelt down to You Jin again: "You Jin, your kindness to Third Aunt's family, Third Aunt has no way to repay..."
"What are you doing, Third Aunt!" You Jin hurriedly helped her up and said a few reproachful words: "We are all one family. As an elder, you're shortening my life by kneeling down to me, no?"
Mrs. Han wiped away the tears on her face and stood up with the support of You Jin and her two sons. She turned to her two sons: "You must remember that us mother and son can be reunited safely today and your elder sister can be fine now is all thanks to You Jin's kindness. This is a kindness we must remember for a lifetime."
"Yes, Son remembers." Yue Wen Sheng noticed the little girl who was by Mother's side when he entered the door and dressed and had an aura like someone from a prestigious family. Never thought it was Third Younger Sister of Second Uncle's family from back then. The more he thought about it, the more confused he became. He couldn't help but look at You Jin again.
Noticing Yue Wen Sheng's gaze, You Jin smiled and nodded at him. Then she looked at Mrs. Han: "Then Third Aunt, talk more with Wen Sheng and Wen Yu. I'll work away outside."
After saying that, she turned and went out, leaving the space for Mrs. Han's mother and sons.
Although Mrs. Han's separation with her two sons wasn't too long, there was chaos everywhere outside. Naturally there were endless questions to ask. What's more, she still had to probe into her son's opinions. Even though she had made up her mind to separate from him Yue Chang Shou, her two sons were also descendants of Yue Family. If sons were willing to follow her, she'll have confidence in her heart. If sons was unwilling to follow her, then how can she have the confidence to compete with Yue Chang Shou?
Chapter 109 Chaos
When Yue Wen Sheng heard Mother said that she wanted to separate with Father, he stood by Mrs. Han without hesitation: "Father isn't a good man now. Wen Yu and I will be filial to Mother."
Wen Sheng declared that he would follow Mrs. Han. It went without saying it was the same for Wen Yu.
Yue Wen Sheng grew up with Han Family's old couple. He witnessed his maternal grandmother becoming ill from getting angered by Yue Chang Shou and Yue Chang Shou refused to call for a doctor. In the end, this illness dragged his maternal grandmother to death! Later, Yue Chang Shou brought that can't be seen thing home and ripped apart this happy and complete family. Yue Wen Sheng wasn't muddled. He would rather bear the charge of unfilial piety than follow Father.
Since the mother and sons had agreed to live together, Mrs. Han told You Jin about the decision.
You Jin nodded to express her understanding: "Since that's the case, there's no better day than today. From today on, Wen Sheng brothers will follow Third Aunt. The carriage is waiting outside. Third Aunt, don't work today. Take Wen Sheng brothers home first to rest. I'll take care of Yue Chang Shou's side."
If Wen Sheng brothers were allowed to go back today, they might leak the news about their settlement in Luohe Prefecture. At that time, they would be unprepared and caught off-guard if Yue Chang Lu came knocking.
Naturally, Mrs. Han's had no objection to You Jin's arrangement. She thanked You Jin before leaving with her two sons.
At first, Yue Chang Shou didn't care about the disappearance of Yue Wen Sheng brothers. He just thought that the two children had gone out and run wild. But after waiting for two days and no one came back, Yue Chang Shou panicked and thought about going out to search for them.
"Master! Luohe Prefecture is so big. Where are you going to find them!" Jiao Niang softly leaned into Yue Chang Shou's arms as if she had no bones. Her index finger kept aimlessly stroking his chest: " Besides, it's so chaotic outside. If something happened to you, what should Jiao Niang do?"
Although Yue Chang Shou was stupid, his two sons were going to carry on the family line for him. If he loses his son, wouldn't it come to an end? With this in mind, Yue Chang Shou rejected Jiao Niang's stickiness and wandered around Luohe Prefecture for two days. Still, he couldn't find his sons.
Back to Jiao Niang. She had long found those two little beasts an eyesore. Now that the little beasts left by themselves was exactly what she wanted. How could she let Yue Chang Shou find them back? Looking at Wan Niang's fair and plump son, her mind turned and came up with an idea.
After fetching a basin of water to wash the feet of Yue Chang Shou who had been searching for a day, Jiao Niang softly kneeled to Yue Chang Shou's side: "Master, Luohe Prefecture is so big and the world is so chaotic, how is the search? Wen Sheng brothers are both smart children. I think they will be fine. But if something happens to you, Master, what is the child in my stomach to do?"
Hearing what Jiao Niang said, Yue Chang Shou, who had been tired for a day, immediately became energetic: "Jiao Niang, you mean...you have it?"
Compared with the delicate beauty who was pregnant with his own child, Yue Wen Sheng and Yue Wen Yu seemed insignificant. Don't think he didn't know, the two little beasts have looked at him with hatred since the two still not dying Han were gone. Now it was wonderful. His beloved Jiao Niang was pregnant. Anyway, he was still young. Would he be afraid that there was no son?
"I feel a little uncomfortable today. I went outside to find a doctor to check the pulse. The doctor said that the days are still short, but I am certainly pregnant." Jiao Niang lowered her head shyly and leaned softly into Yue Chang Shou's arms. At an angle he couldn't see, her eyes were full of indifference. Ever since she entered Yue's house, those two little beasts and that b*tch disliked her. Now before she could make a move, the two little beasts had disappeared. Heaven was helping her too!
So she must not let those two little beasts come back! Although Yue Chang Shou didn't have much property, he knew how to interact. There were so many merchants coming and going from north to south in Luohe Prefecture. It wouldn't be difficult for Yue Chang Shou to make a fortune. Jiao Niang had suffered enough. She never wants to go back to the brothel to be a pillow ridden by thousands of people. The most urgent thing was to firmly hold the heart of the overlord Yue Chang Shou. Since he wants a child, she will give him one as long as the two little beasts don't come back.
Jiao Niang didn't want Yue Wen Sheng and brothers to come back and was quite anxious to get rid of them. Through throwing a tantrum, she made Yue Chang Shou move out of the resting stop inn and found them. In Liushu Alley outside the city gate of west market, they found a dilapidated small courtyard that can be regarded as a home for the time being.
Yue Chang Shou didn't discuss the matter of moving out with Yue Chang Lu. Yue Chang Lu didn't see Yue Chang Shou's family for two or three days in a row before he went to inquire with the manager of the resting stop inn and found out that Yue Chang Shou's family had already checked out for a good few days. Even the ox carts they brought here were taken away.
"Old Third child is really not a thing! The ox cart belongs to the public and he secretly took it away by himself!" Yue Chang Lu angrily stormed back to the room and kicked over the innocent round stool. Wan Niang had just put her son to sleep. When she saw him coming back in a huff, she let him go crazy and ignored him.
The two fleeing brothers of Yue Family broke up halfway. During these days in Luohe Prefecture, Yue Chang Lu got involved in all kinds of sneaking and cheating. Although Wan Niang probably guessed what he was doing outside, she happily enjoyed the benefits when she saw him bringing back good food and drinks every day. She even supported him in doing these things.
Back to Su Family's side. Yue Wen Sheng brothers studied in the study room in the front yard with them after they moved in. Wen Sheng and Wen Sheng both had good personalities. In an instant, Kang-er had two more cousin brothers and liked them very much. The three brothers practice martial arts and literature together every day. As a consequence, Kang-er's temperament calmed down a lot. This unexpected joy made Mrs. Su and You Jin feel more fond of third branch's two children.
When Wen Sheng brothers first entered Su's house, they were always cautious. But after a few days of getting along with each other, they found out the younger sisters of the second room were better off now as well having good personalities and temperaments. Even both You Duan and Kang-er who were about to turn four years old were well-behaved. They didn't look down on them because they were poor relatives who came knocking. Gradually, the two brothers integrated into Su Family.
As for the future, You Jin had a detailed talk with Wen Sheng. Knowing that he aimed to take the imperial examination, she offered him as much help as possible: "Teacher Chen, the teacher at home, got a background as a Xiucai. He has some capability. Your foundation is still weak now. It is enough to study with Teacher Chen. In the future, after achieving Tongsheng, you will go to the academy in Luohe Prefecture. What does Third Elder Brother think?"
"It's my good fortune to be able to study with Teacher Chen. How can I trouble Third Younger Sister?" Although Yue Wen Sheng came to Su Family for a short time, he had heard stories one after another about Eldest Miss of Su Family. He knew that the current situation of Su Family was created by not-yet-of-age Third Younger Sister with the few younger sisters. It went without saying, he respected her a little more in his heart.
"It's okay. Let's leave the future matter in the future. Third Elder Brother can study at home with peace of mind. Third Aunt and I will handle outside matters." You Jin took a sip from the celadon teacup. Looking at the jasmine flowers that have been stretched out in the clear tea brew, she couldn't help but smile with satisfaction. This batch of scented tea was better than the previous batch.
After the cousins' discussion, Yue Wen Sheng took his younger brother to study in the study room. Now there were Su Family's eight daughters, Su Kang, Han Er Hua, and Yue Wen Sheng brothers studying in Su Family's study room every day. A total of twelve people. Wen Sheng was the oldest among them. He had been enlightened early on and had even taken the Tongsheng examination. His foundation was the best and he studied the hardest.
Old Xiucai Chen admired this young man very much. According to the master family's instructions, the daily class was adjusted to giving the younger small enlightenments in the morning and teaching Yue Wen Sheng brothers and Han Er Hua who will take the imperial examination in the future in the afternoon. The daily classes were arranged full.
Yue Wen Sheng never thought that he would still have the opportunity to study. Naturally, he cherished this hard-won opportunity very much. He was even more grateful to second branch's Aunt and Third Younger Sister. So he devoted himself to studying hard every day, hoping that he would be able to get a good reputation in the future and repay Mother's upbringing and the kindness of the second branch.
As for Mrs. Han, she was busy making arrangements every day. The location of Su Family's new shop was also located in the east market of Luohe Prefecture. Its main business was to sell all kinds of honey and scented tea produced by Su Family. You Jin wanted to make the Su family's name bigger. Because the new shop sold different items, the shop was named Sujiami. This way people could tell at a glance that it was Wuliqiao's Su Family's business.
Honey was considered a relatively rare thing in ancient times. Plus, there were also scented teas with beautifying effects. With these two as the main product, the decoration of the new shop shouldn't be too bad. Mrs. Han had been working on the decoration of the new shop for the past few days.
Now that Su Family's business was so large, You Jin can't manage it alone. So she entrusted Uncle Song to take care of most of the business dealings that come into contact with the outside world. The shop, Houjiawan, and Chaxiang all had corresponding managers to take care of them. Now, You Jin only needed to go to the shop and the villa from time to time. If there was any big business or things that Uncle Song and others couldn't decide, she stepped forward then. Now it was much easier than before.
Now that the new shop was about to open, You Jin was naturally busy. Mrs. Han was in charge of taking care of the business in the shop, while You Jin was dealing non-stop with the craftsmen who make the packaging. The narrow-mouthed white porcelain bottles with the words 'Sujiaxiang' printed on them were used as containers for honey. It promoted Sujiaxiang's signboard.
"The samples this time are fine. Must trouble Manager Ge and all the masters to work hard. Before 23th February, please send 500 white porcelain bottles of one jin size and 300 white porcelain bottles of two jin size to Sujiaxiang's new shop in east market after they are finished." You Jin was very satisfied with the samples this time and made a final decision.
Manager Ge was relieved when he heard that Su Family's Miss finally made a choice. This was already the fourth model they have made. Although the process was a bit more troublesome, Manager Ge knew that the business with Sujiaxiang will be long-term big customers. It went without saying, it was their first priority task. "Miss Su, don't worry. It will definitely be all completed on the 23rd."
After paying a deposit of fifty liang, You Jin led people out of the west market. Seeing more and more ragged people pouring into Luohe Prefecture, You Jin's heart sank. It seemed the war in the north was tense?
Qiu Fen had been with Eldest Miss for half a year. This was the first time that she saw Eldest Miss in a daze outside. So she hurried forward and whispered, "What's wrong, Eldest Miss?"
Under the maid's whispered call, You Jin came back to her senses and shook her head with a calm face: "It's nothing, let's go." After saying that, she lifted her skirt and got on her carriage. Qiu Fen hurriedly followed. Only after Missl got into the carriage and sat down, she firmly put down the curtains to block out many scanning eyes from outside.
The carriage was rocked along the bustling streets of the West Market. Sitting in the carriage and resting her eyes, You Jin listened to the voices of people on both sides of the carriage. Her heart was feeling uneasy and flustered. She knew the cruelty of war. If Luohe Prefecture got breached, is she really capable of protecting such a big family?
She sighed deeply. Leave it. At present, she can only take one step at a time.
Chapter 110 Chaos (part 2)
Back to the capital's side. No matter whether it was the current emperor or the hundreds of officials' household, no one had lived a good year.
In previous years, it was only after the fifteenth day that the court meeting opened up. This year, due to the war in the north, the Dafeng's garrison fell again and again. His Majesty aged a lot overnight. Those important military ministers were all so worried that their heads turned white too. The Ministry of War said that The Ministry of Revenue wouldn't give money. The Ministry of Revenue cried of poverty. They cried and made trouble in the Esteem's study room every day. It made his Majesty's head big and lose his temper. Several unlucky little eunuchs and little maids faced the receiving end of it.
"Recently, Northern Xinjiang continuously lost. His Majesty is upset. You guys are careless in serving and become a bother in the eyes of his Majesty. If you don't get punished, who will?" The chief eunuch of Qingyang Palace, Eunuch Lin squinted at the two kneeling on the ground. The shivering maid who dared not make a sound: "Go to the House of Internal Affairs to receive your punishment."
Now it was the first month. His Majesty didn't want to see blood in the first month. That's why these ant-like slaves can survive. If it was normal times, they would have died a long time ago.
Hearing that they were only receiving the punishment, the two maids' hearts that had already reached their throats fell back to their original place. They kowtowed several times: "Thank you, Eunuch, thank you, Eunuch!"
Eunuch Lin didn't bother to look at them. He waved off the guards to drag the two of them down, hurriedly got up and went back to his Majesty's side to personally serve him. The war in northern Xinjiang was tense. His Majesty's face was getting uglier day by day. Not to mention others, even he, the old man who was always serving by his side since he was a prince, was tense when serving him. Not to mention the others.
"Each and every one of them is crying poverty to meI!" Eunuch Lin had just entered the gate of Qingyang Palace, when he was hit by the booklets that were thrown toward him by his Majesty in a fit of anger.
Eunuch Lin ignored the pain on his body, knelt down, picked up the scattered booklets one by one, and put them away. He brought a cup of hot tea to his Majesty, "Calm down, your Majesty. No matter how big and important the matter is, it's not as important as the Son of Heaven, right?"
"How can I not be angry? When fighting for merit on most days, each and every one of them can run faster than rabbits. Now that Northern Xinjiang had been lost, those generals either say that they are old and can't lead the soldiers or that they are injured and can't go far! The Ministry of Revenue is even more extreme. Before I even opened my mouth, he came to cry to me that he was poor!"
His Majesty was over fifty years old this year. And he had a bad temper. Now he was so exasperated that his eyes turned black and he almost fainted.
"Your Majesty! Your Majesty, don't get angry!" Eunuch Lin hurried forward to support wobbling Majesty.
There was no peace in the palace. Everything was complicated outside.
In Xiao's manor in the capital, Eldest Master Xiao and Second Master Xiao were having a secret conversation in the study.
"Nowadays the war in northern Xinjiang is getting tense. The Ministry of Revenue is crying penniless. I think his Majesty's intention is to get it from the hundred families of officials." Second Master Xiao looked quite similar to Eldest Master Xiao, but had a more distinctive air of scholarness than Eldest Master Xiao. The two brothers talked face to face, and the faces that were 70% similar all had heavy expressions.
Eldest Master Xiao frowned even more after listening to his younger brother's words: "Again? Two years ago, we gave out 200,000 liang for the canal in Luohe Prefecture. Now it's wartime. I'm afraid it will cost more money?" Xiao Family's foundation in the capital wasn't too deep. Although Second Master Xiao had a bit of face in front of his Majesty, it was precisely because of this that Xiao Family was always the first bird to be hit.
Second Master Xiao sighed: "If I take the initiative to mention this matter to his Majesty, I will naturally have more face in front of his Majesty. But I am afraid that my colleagues and the major household will be more hostile to our family." In fact, his Majesty had already hinted at him, getting him to propose it at the opening court meeting. This way, his Majesty could ask for money from those wealthy major families.
Xiao Family's wealth was accumulated through two or three generations. How can it compare with the major households? His Majesty's goal was naturally not Xiao Family. He put more hopes on those in major households. Xiao Family was just an excuse to start the talk.
"Now the situation is getting more and more chaotic. His Majesty is becoming more and more suspicious. If I don't take the initiative to mention it, I'm afraid he will be suspicious of me too." Second Master Xiao sighed. His Majesty had aged a lot in the past two years and his health had deteriorated a lot too. The obsession with imperial power became more and more obstinate. Although Second Master Xiao had never stood in line with any prince or had the heart of disobedience, his Majesty was suspicious. Many old courtiers had got punished by his Majesty on the grounds of trivial matters. For the lives of hundreds of people up and down of Xiao Family, he had no choice but to show his loyalty again and again.
The two brothers went their separate ways after talking in the study late into the night. Xiao Hai Ru walked back to the main courtyard with heavy steps before collapsing down to sleep. But there were so many things in his heart that he tossed and turned, unable to fall asleep no matter what.
"What's the matter today, Master? Did something happen ?" Mrs. Yu had tucked in not long ago and realized that the person next to her pillow was different today. So she rolled over, leaned closer to, and asked softly.
Xiao Hai Ru sighed slightly and replied: "It's just a small business matter. You should go to sleep early."
He stretched out her arms to hug his wife and patted her lightly twice. Some hoarse and heavy voices sounded in the silent night and stood out against outside's deep solemnness.
Seeing that he didn't say anything, Mrs. Yu assumed it truly a small business problem and didn't ask any more questions. Initially, she wanted to talk to him about Eldest Son's marriage, but seeing his frowning, Mrs. Yu was silent for a moment. The husband and wife remained speechless for a while. Each went into slumber, but had different dreams in the same bed.
Back to Xiao Lin Yu. After having an open and honest talk with Father that time, he deliberately restrained himself, suppressed his thoughts, and stopped writing to Luohe Prefecture. He occupied himself with the family's business every day. After getting drunk that one time, he woke up from the dream and no longer mentioned the past in Luohe Prefecture. Everyone thought that the people and things in Luohe Prefecture were blown away by the wind. Only Xiao Lin Yu himself knew that in countless sleepless nights, he read the girl's letter to him over and over again. Afterward. he locked it back into the box like holding the world's treasure. This way, it was as if he had locked all his affection and thoughts.
Feng Hua was still playful and fun-seeking. When he had free time, he liked to invite Xiao Lin Yu for alcohol and tea. Xiao Lin Yu would mostly attend these invite.
"I heard that the girl from Bai Family came to look for you?" Feng Hua heard the big gossip today and hurriedly came to Xiao Lin Yu to confirm it: "How was it? Isn't the beauty's tears so moving?"
Xiao Lin Yu didn't even raise his eyelids. The subordinates poured a cup of mellow tea made from the new tea from Chaxiang to Feng Hua: "What does the beauty's tear have to do with me?"
In his opinion, engaged Bai Ya-er was just a suitable mistress. Afterward, the engagement was gone and she was nothing more than an irrelevant person in his eyes. He had so many things to do every day. Even if there were forty-eight hours in a day, it wasn't enough for him.
"Eldest Gentleman Xiao is really cruel!" Feng Hua picked up a cup of tea, took a sip, and sighed: "If Bai Family's girl knew that she can tie the knot with her sweetheart thanks to you, the matchmaker, wouldn't she be more grateful to you?" Last year Xiao Lin Yu did a lot of behind the scene work to take off the pre-marriage green hat that Bai Ya-er put on him. In the midst of it, Feng Hua helped out!
Thinking of this, Feng Hua couldn't help sighing: "What major family's daughter who was educated by a century-old scholarly family!? Thinking about those matters. I am really ashamed for Bai Family's Master!"
As he spoke, he spat a few times. His complete dislike for Bai Ya-er was evident between his brows.
"Just drink tea. It still can't stop your mouth!" Irked, Xiao Lin Yu rolled his eyes at him. He really shouldn't have ruined the good tea that You Jin gave him: "You're a man. Why are you learning from those long-tongued women! ?"
Feng Hua meekly chuckled a little and replied, "Drink tea, drink tea."
The two of them discarded this subject: "By the way, Young Master Xiao, where did you get this tea? It tastes a little different from usual?"
Chaxiang sent two varieties of newly produced sweet-scented tea (osmanthus oolong tea and jasmine green tea), as well as the unique fragrant tea in Chaxiang. This was what Xiao Lin Yu had discussed with You Jin long ago. When Chaxiang produces good tea leaves, it must be sent to the capital as soon as possible. Xiao Lin Yu will be responsible for opening up the market. If the tea were left in You Jin's own hands, it can only be sold at a price a little more expensive than ordinary quality tea. While Xiao Lin Yu had a wide range of people and many methods. If the tea was in his hands, it wouldn't be hard for him to sell at high-quality tea's price.
However, You Jin mentioned one thing during the cooperation between the two; Su Family's tea wll be under Su Family's brand 'Sujiacha'. As for the profit distribution, You Jin will account for 60% and Xiao Lin Yu will account for 40%. Xiao Lin Yu didn't want to rely on his family's assets. Naturally, he hit it off with You Jin. As for the profit share, Xiao Lin Yu only wanted 30%: "After all, you will pay for manpower and material resources. I only open up the sales channel. 30% of the profit is enough."
Thinking of the situation when he signed a cooperation agreement with You Jin last year, Xiao Lin Yu couldn't help showing a slight smile on his face. He responded, "If it's delicious, why don't you buy some back?"
Today, the two of them were gathering in the wing room on the second floor of the first tea shop opened under the brand 'Sujiacha'. Xiao Lin Yu opened the shop in the name of Su Family. Only the manager knew that he was the owner of the shop. The manager was a loyal servant brought back by Xiao Lin Yu from other places. So he wasn't worried about the fact of him being the owner of the capital's 'Sujiacha' getting leaked out.
"I noticed that this shop looks like it's newly opened. You are really caring; to have found this novel tea." Feng Hua tasted the tea and sampled a few cakes made from tea leaves. It was novel and delicious. He nodded again and again: "I feel that I don't have much appetite in spring these days. This snack is novel and quite appetizing."
After that, he ate another piece; not looking like he had a bad appetite at all.
'Sujiacha' had only been open for less than half a month. Although the price was expensive, there was no shortage of rich people in the capital. In the early stage, Xiao Lin Yu sent out a lot of tea leaves to customers who had business dealings with Xiao Family. Small portions of tea were packed in white porcelain jars engraved with the words 'Sujiacha'. The newly opened 'Sujiacha' had attracted many customers. Nowadays, 50 to 60 percent of the wing rooms on the second floor have customers sitting in them, brewing tea, and enjoying the scenery. The business was really good.
"I'm a businessman, so I'm naturally well-informed." Xiao Lin Yu didn't intend to spread the shop's backstory. He only smiled, poured him another cup of fragrant tea, and changed the subject: "I heard that the court recently Is restless recently"
He also knew about the affairs in North Jiang. Come to think of it, his Majesty must be anxious. In the early years, the mighty general of Dafeng, General Han Guang Hong led Han Family's army to fight fiercely with the Northern ethnic in the northern border and returned with a great victory. Northern ethnic's vitality received great damage. Only then, the people in the northern border of Dafeng were considered to live stable. But four years ago, General Han was accused of collaborating with the enemy and treason and hundreds of people in Han Family were killed overnight. Now, in the whole of Dafeng, where can we find a second godly general?
"I don't know. But I think my family's old man is so worried that he can't even speak. I guess the situation isn't optimistic." Feng Hua's father was an official in the court with the position of fourth-rank Ministry of Revenue's Vice Minister. Now his Majesty asked for money from the Ministry of Revenue every day. How can Official Feng not worry!