Chapter 161. Dowry displaying day
On November 23rd was Su Family's marrying out daughter's dowry add on.
Today was a rare sunny day. The winter sun was shining warmly on people's bodies. Su Family had started to make preparations for Eldest Miss's dowry display long ago.
Today, You Jin wore a jade-colored ruskirt with a peach-red undertone. The jacket outside was a double-embroidered crabapple and a white rabbit lining. The makeup on her face was also a peach blossom makeup in accordance with the occasion. She looked dignified and elegant without losing charming.
"I've heard that Eldest Miss of Su Family is outstanding. Seeing her today once is better than hearing about it a hundred times!" You Ling's future husband's family's old Madam rarely came out. Today it was to interact with people from the wealthy circle of Luohe Prefecture. Secondly, was to get closer to the future in-laws.
You Jin sat below of old Madam Cui. She nodded slightly and smilingly replied: "Thank you, old Madam Cui for your compliment."
Seeing her being so courteous, old Madam Cui secretly approved in her heart, knowing to advance and retreat, while being generous and dignified. Certainly a good one. This old Madam Cui also came from a scholarly family. At the beginning, she knew that her son and daughter-in-law had arranged for a countryside girl for grandson. Although there was a signage bestowed by the emperor, she still had some doubts in her heart. How good could they be?
Now she met Su Family's eldest daughter today and saw that she was much better than their granddaughter in terms of appearance, character, temperament, and implementing the rule of advance and retreat. Hearing that Su Family's fifth daughter, who was chosen by son and daughter-in-law, was taught by Su Family's eldest daughter, the prejudice she had was lessened despite not seeing her yet.
Speak of the devil. You Ling and You Luo outside heard that there were distinguished guests coming, so they came to pay respects very politely.
Old Madam Cui looked at You Ling who was standing in the hall and properly greeting. With critical eyes, she wished she could see even a strand of hair clearly and wanted to pick out some faults.
You Ling didn't know that it was old Madam of the Cui family who was sitting on the top seat. After saluting, she stepped back and sat on the side without saying a word. A proper smile remained on her fair face all the time. There was a strange feeling in her heart. Old Madam kept staring at herself?
Old Madam Cui had always been at odds with that daughter-in-law. Naturally, she was a little dissatisfied with the marriage that she decided on her own even when major matters like marriage were decided by her parents. Although she had opinions, she can't influence them. So she could only find fault from granddaughter-in-law and fight with her daughter-in-law.
Back to Madam Cui, who was also present today. Just now she was talking with other wives at the front. Only now, she came to the parlor.
"I haven't seen you for a while. You Ling has grown more and more pretty." Madam Cui looked amiable and she was very satisfied with the daughter-in-law she had chosen. When she entered the parlor and saw You Ling, she merrily chatted with her.
You Ling got up to greet her: "Good day, Madam Cui."
She had met Madam Cui and knew she was her future mother-in-law. Although she was a little shy, she greeted her with a slightly red face.
Madam Cui and her old mother-in-law being at odds wasn't a matter of a year or two. In order to make face for her future daughter-in-law, she must perform well in front of the ladies of the family. Then she led You Ling to old Madam Cui and gave another salute.
At the side, You Jin could sense the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law pair's thought. However, it was obvious that Madam Cui liked You Ling. Currently, it was Madam Cui who called the shots in Cui Family. Once You Ling marry in, choose more capable women and maids and there was nothing to be afraid of.
The people who came to add dowry today almost included more than half of the wives and girls in the upper circle of Luohe Prefecture. Many people originally looked down on people from mud-legged families like Su Family. Now they arrived at Su's house, they found out there were at least dozens of servants in Su Family who were moving in and out. Their every movement was agile and well-behaved. Much better than many people who think they have some background. They can't help but have a little more respect for Su Family.
This point of awe reached fifty percent when they saw the dowry of Su Family's eldest daughter with their own eyes. Which family would give such a generous dowry when marrying out daughter! They heard the resonant voice of the marriage official, who sang the dowry list, kept singing: "There are triple entry property in Yunhua Lane in Luohe Prefecture, triple entry property in Qingyun Lane in the capital..."
Just the triple entry property, there were two. On top of that, two shops in Luohe Prefecture and the capital city each, two villa with thousands of mu of land, hundreds of gold, silver, pearl, treasure, silk and satin, and the likes. There were also all kinds of furniture made of precious wood such as yellow rosewood and sour branch, a dowry silver of 18,888 liang at in fund box, twenty-eight servants for dowry, etc. The dowry, which was worth at least fifty to sixty thousand liang, made the women present click their tongues. Those misses from various families who came to join in the fun were even more envious.
In addition to Xiao Family's betrothal gift, which Su Family didn't keep at all, was included in Eldest Daughter's dowry. The combined value was at least one hundred and fifty thousand liang. People were dumbfounded.
The smile on You Jin's face remained unchanged, but her brows were slightly frowned. Why was this much things prepared?
This was the dowry painstakingly prepared by Mrs. Su and her daughters. Seeing that everyone who came to add dowry today was shocked, Mrs. Su was also a little embarrassed: "The dowry is a little short, made everyone see a joke."
Compared to Xiao Family's nearly one hundred thousand liang worth of gift, the dowry prepared by the family was a bit insignificant. As Mrs. Su spoke, she wondered whether to prepare more for Eldest Daughter or not.
After the dowry display, it was adding to the dowry. Then there was a banquet. It was lively for a long time. The guests and hosts had a good time before they dispersed.
"Madam, the add-on dowry from each family has been registered and included in Eldest Miss's dowry list." Auntie Song, who was in charge of the registration, came forward., and now the whole family was fully preparing for Eldest Miss's wedding. Currently the entire Su Family was putting their heart in Eldest Miss's marriage and determined to make this wedding a decent one.
Mrs. Su put down her teacup and sighed, "Everyone had worked hard today. After finishing Eldest Miss's happy event, I will give everyone two days off to have a good rest." Mrs. Su's housekeeping skill had improved and continued to use daughter's management method of treating the servants leniently. The servants of Su Family only thought that Eldest Miss was capable and assumed Madam was soft-tempered. Unexpectedly, she seemed to have some capability and they were willing to comply.
Today, Mrs. Zhao from Lizheng's family brought her daughter-in-law to add dowry. Lian Hua-er listened to the dowry list sung by the marriage official and unconsciously twisted her sleeves and cuffs into a ball. Her envy toward Su Family's girl got heavier.
Ever since the incident happened the year before last, Mrs. Zhao had been even more dissatisfied with this daughter-in-law. Today, she noticed how gloomy she looked after they came back from Su's house. Mrs. Zhao whispered what she knew with her own man: "From what I see, Lian Hua-er got a big heart. I'm really afraid that she will implicate Xuan Hai in the future if she does something. What to do?"
In the past two years, the life of He Family had gotten better and better. Although there was a difference between cloud and earth when compared with Su Family, they can still save three hundred or so liang silver despite having a scholar in the family and bought seventeen-eighteen mu of fertile land. In Wuliqiao and surrounding areas, they were considered wealthy households.
Although Mrs. Zhao knew that Lian Hua-er was hostile to You Jin, she still didn't know why. She could only be on guard, for fear that she would stir something and implicate the family: "Look at that old Fifth Chen's family. They harbor bad intentions and their family is already in ruin. Now You Jin is going to marry Commandery Duke! If we offend Su Family, what will happen to our Xuan Hai's future?"
One must know that He Xuan Hai was the only chance for their old He Family to change their household position. Mrs. Zhao will never allow Lian Hua-er to drag their son down.
"Indeed, not to mention Commandery Duke, there's Wei Family and Xu Family. Which one can we afford to offend?" He Hao leaned on the kang and smoked. His dark face wrinkled into a ball: "It'll be hard for you to keep an eye on her."
Now there were a few helpers in He Family's small restaurant and He Hao oversaw it. Since the family's only granddaughter, little Ni Ni, who had been in poor health since she was little and Lian Hua-er herself wasn't get close to her, Mrs. Zhao wholeheartedly took care of the child at home. It wasn't difficult to keep an eye on Lian Hua-er.
The husband and wife talked for a long time before they each rested. As for Su Family, they didn't know He Family's thought. They were all focused on Eldest Miss's wedding in three days.
On the 25th, there was a light snowfall all day. Everyone in Su Family was very worried, fearing that the bad weather tomorrow would delay Eldest Miss from heading out for her happy event.
November 26th was suitable for marriage.
The time to welcome the bride was the second quarter of three o'clock in the afternoon. Before the seven in the morning, the sky was dimly lit when Su's house, which had been brightly lit all night, began to be lively.
"Da Lin, you guys quickly clean up all the snow on the road. Chen Qing's wife, you take a few people to shake off the snow on the red silk and get the wet ones to the warehouse to quickly clean. Also, Yang Zi's side, hurry up to the stove and get someone to boil water to make tea. Don't delay!" Wearing a dark red silk padded jacket and a gold-plated magpie hairpin and a two-finger-sized red silk flower on her neatly combed hair, Auntie Song stood in the courtyard. Bit by bit, everyone got busy with their work.
"Today is Eldest Miss's big day. There are many delicate guests in the house. You should be vigilant when you move in and out. Don't offend the noble." Auntie Song was now helping Mrs. Su manage the inner house. She was diligent and never showed favoritism. Among the many servants in the family, her words held power.
All the servants in dark red clothes naturally knew the importance. It went without saying, they were tense. Lowering their hands and restrained their expression, they replied in unison: "Yes."
Back to in the second entry's east compound house. it was still quiet. The gray sky covered the sun. The candles hadn't been lit in the quiet boudoir. The young girl covered with brocade quilt on the big carved bed hadn't woken up yet. Through the gauze tent, only shallow and even breathing can be heard.
After a while, the two slender and perfectly curved eyelashes fluttered slightly. THe young girl slowly opened her eyes and woke up.
Lying on the bed, You Jin still couldn't keep her eyes open. Last night when she, who had never been in a relationship in the past two lifetimes, thought that she was going to get married today, became nervous for no reason. Then she couldn't sleep until the early morning. Consciousness wasn't yet awake.
"Is Miss waking up?" Qiu Fen, who was guarding outside, heard the movement inside. So she quietly opened the door and came in. Seeing that Eldest Miss was still lying on the bed with her eyes half open, she went to the bed, bent her knees, pulled up the gauze curtain, and asked softly.
Checking at the light outside, the slightly confused young girl asked, "What time is it?"
"It was the third quarter of seven o'clock. At the front, lucky matron has arrived. Madam is entertaining her in the parlor. Do you want to rest for a while?" Although the light in the room wasn't bright, Qiu Fen could still make out the black circles under Eldest Miss's eyes: "I'm afraid today will be rowdy till midnight."
You Jin recalled You Bao and You Yin's wedding. The banquets weren't finished until late in the evening. So she nodded and said: "I will sleep for another half an hour. When it's time, come back to call me."
After saying that, she closed her eyes while thinking that she was really the most leisurely bride ever. Shortly later, she fell asleep.
Seeing that Eldest Miss was asleep, Qiu Fen put down the gauze lightly and then quietly made her way out. A quiet room was left behind.
Chapter 162. Su Family's Eldest Daughter's wedding
Back to Xiao Family's side. Everything was already in order. Xiao Lin Yu was so excited that he almost didn't sleep all night. There were no dark circles under his eyes. He was in high spirits. He changed into the wedding gown embroidered with gold thread in the closet. Then he changed to a red jade hairpin. Truly a face like crown jade.
"It's 9 o'clock now. The front has yet to depart and you're already in a hurry." Mrs. Yu was dressed in a dark red dress with floral satin skirt today. On her hair bun, between her ears and both wrists were adorned with red gold jewelry inlaid with precious stones. Quite luxurious. She signaled Youngest Son to pull Eldest Son to sit down: "You aren't a child anymore, so don't lose your sense of proportion."
Although today was her son's joyous day, her Xiao Family was now the household of a commandery duke. No one in Luohe Prefecture can surpass her family. If outsiders saw the eagerness of Eldest Son, the commandery duke's face will be swept to the floor.
Although Mrs. Yu was happy, she was still much calmer than Eldest Son whose long-cherished wish had come true for many years. After all, she still wanted to maintain the dignity as the mistress of the house and the reputation of Xiao Family.
This was the first time in Xiao Lin Feng's life that he had seen his eldest brother in such an agitated state. Already eighteen but still carefree, he pulled his eldest brother as he snickered on the inside: "Truly heroes have it difficult at beauty's challenge. Never imagined Eldest Brother would lose composure!"
"On the day of the child's joyous day, it's possible to be overjoyed." Sitting at the head, Mrs. Song smiled and protected her eldest grandson. Today, she was wearing a dress embroidered with blessings and had a top-notch emerald on her forehead. The bracelet on her wrist was the same material as the one on the forehead, showing the dignity and temperament of the elderly.
Except for Second Master Xiao, who was an official answer to the roll call in the court and couldn't come back, Xiao Family's two branches gathered together. Everyone had deep or shallow smiles on their faces and chatted one after another. It was quite lively.
After breakfast and lunch, some of the people who received the invitations came early. Xiao Family's wedding procession team finally set off amidst Xiao Lin Yu's longing.
Riding on a white horse tied with red silk satin, Xiao Lin Yu headed the bride-welcoming team. Although there was a faint smile on his face, it was just a little cover for his inner ecstasy.
Walking in the familiar streets of Luohe Prefecture, Xiao Lin Yu couldn't help recalling the nearly eight years of knowing You Jin. Scene after scene flashed through his mind like singing an opera. He was full of joy and emotion. Joy due to finally being able to embrace the beautiful woman back. Emotional because he and You Jin had experienced too many separations and tribulations. He made up her mind that in the future, he must wholeheartedly love her for the rest of his life.
Su Family was thriving in population now. Han Li brothers, Fourth Wei, Liu Zhuo Ting, Yue Wen Sheng brothers, and Su Kang, the seven males blocked Xiao Lin Yu's welcoming procession outside for nearly two quarters of an hour. There was poetry and red envelopes. It ended when the matchmaker came from the main courtyard and said that it was nearly time. Only then, everyone dropped it with an unsatisfied feeling.
Xiao Lin Yu, who was finally allowed to enter Su's house, straightened his clothes and headed straight for the bride's boudoir.
This time, he finally received the bride smoothly, led You Jin to the main hall, knelt farewell to Mrs. Su. Then Su Kang led his elder sister's hand slowly out of the gate of Su Family. She got on the eight-carried sedan chair. All the way, firecrackers were set off along with the sound of joy as they went to the city of Luohe Prefecture.
At Su Family's side, joyous money was scattered. After the last dowry was carried out from Su's house, Uncle Song took Su Kang and sprinkled two large baskets of copper coins, and distributed wedding candies to the surrounding villagers who spectated the ceremony. Only then, everyone from Su Family turned around and went in. The Wuliqiao villagers who came to congratulate picked up forty or fifty wens. Those with less got a dozen or so wens as well as wedding candies. Naturally, they happily left.
Marrying out a daughter, Su Family had already hosted a banquet for the whole village of Wuliqiao yesterday. The banquet kept on going for half a day. Today's banquet guests will wait another half an hour to go to Xiao's manor for the banquet. In the whole Wuliqiao, only the Lizheng family was invited. There were some who were red-eyed, but they can only envy in secret.
Back to the wedding procession that marched into Luohe Prefecture. The eighty-eight dowries that followed were as long as a kilometer. The people in Luohe Prefecture were all dumbfounded. Some clueless passersby sighed and exclaimed: "Which rich and noble family is getting married? There's over 20 boxes at the front and there's no end in sight! Truly rich and powerful!"
There were onlookers who knew. When they heard that someone was so ignorant, they said: "You don't know! This is Commandery Duke's wedding. He's marrying to the daughter of Su Family who got an imperial plaque written by his Majesty at home! "
"Commandery Duke? I saw that the groom is only in his early twenties. He actually already a commandery duke?"
"Let me tell you..."
The noise outside naturally couldn't reach the ears of You Jin who was sitting on the bridal sedan chair. Only the sound of firecrackers kept ringing as the joy of the gong, drum and suona ensemble blocked everything out. You Jin felt that her palms were slightly sweaty, It felt like she could still hear the thumping sound in her chest. The nervousness made her feel dizzy.
She thought of how she somehow came to this strange time and space. She thought how hard she had raised her seven younger sisters. She thought of how she first met Xiao Lin Yu and she was secretly laughing at how rich and powerful he was. She thought of those sleepless nights of worrying after she thought he was gone ...
Too much of the past flashed through her mind like a movie scene. Suddenly, she heard the matchmaker shouting something outside and saw that the wedding sedan chair that was still shaking just now also stopped. They must have arrived. So she came back to her sense. "Groom kicks the sedan chair..."
"Newly-wedded step over the brazier, safely enter in..."
"One worship to heaven and earth... Husband and wife worship each other..."
The matchmaker yelled loudly in a booming and pleasing voice. You Jin, whose vision was blocked by the Bingdi Lotus head veil, could only turn around like a marionette with the support of Qiu Fen and Xiao Lin Yu and knelt down. She became more and more dizzy. When she felt that she couldn't hold on any longer, she finally sat on the big yellow rosewood wedding bed with mandarin ducks playing with water and carved flowers under the lotus.
You Jin, who didn't know what was going on outside the red veil, was relieved to be able to sit so quietly even when the string on her head was tense.
Back to at Xiao Family's wedding banquet outside. Although Xiao Lin Feng and Xiao Lin Wen helped hold back a lot of wine, Xiao Lin Yu was still a little drunk. Blushes had already appeared on his slightly smiling face. Holding the white jade wine cup in his hand, he drank it in one gulp: "For Official Liu to be able to take the time to come here today, it's really my blessing."
Luohe Prefecture's cavalry Official Liu saw how straightforward he was and jollily guffawed: "Commandery Duke is a good drinker!"
After saying that, he picked up the giant bowl in front of him that he specially asked from the servant and drank it all. Official Liu was born in the army. Although he was now an important minister who controlled the military power of a second rank, the bold temperament cultivated for more than 20 years hadn't changed at all. .
When the previous emperor was around and the princes were fighting to be the heir, Official Liu never took a side despite having a large army in his hands. Now that the new emperor ascended the throne, Xiao Lin Yu got the order from the emperor to come and test the cavalry official's thoughts. Official Teacher knew that he had a 300,000 Luohe Prefecture garrison army in his hand but had never stood on a side line to seize the throne would receive suspicion from his Majesty. This time he came to the banquet with the intention of getting on the good side with Xiao Lin Yu.
After all, Xiao Lin Yu was one of the first batch of conferred titles after his Majesty ascended the throne. Presumably, he must have the merits of following the dragon. Now he was willing to be friends with himself, this should also be his Majesty's intention. Although Official Liu was a rough man, he was also somewhat wise. Having these guesses, the smile on his face became even more obvious.
After drinking with the other officials present in Luohe Prefecture, Xiao Lin Yu pretended to be drunk. Supported by his younger brother and younger cousin brother, he returned to the bridal room.
Because of Xiao Lin Yu's special status, naturally no young people dared to come and stir the bridal chamber. The 'drunk man' who was helped back to the door of the bridal room immediately became 'sober' when he reached the door: "Everyone retreat."
"Yes." Receiving the master's order, Xiao Family's servants naturally didn't refuse. The several maidservants in the bridal room came out together with the matchmaker. Xiao Lin Feng and Younger Cousin Brother had long disappeared. Only the bride whose veil had yet to be lifted and a slightly blushing jade face and somewhat timid groom standing in front of her was left.
Xiao Lin Yu looked at the person sitting quietly on the bed. After a moment of hesitation, he lifted the red veil with all his might. Afterward, he was instantly amazed by the beauty under the red veil: "Jin-er..."
Seeing his dumbfounded look, droop-eye You Jin, couldn't help laughing out loud: "You fool!"
The crown that You Jin wore on her head today was made from the box of pearls that Xiao Lin Yu entrusted someone to send back long ago. The pearls and rubies complemented each other. They enhanced the heavy-make-up young woman to look more glamorous today. Around seventy percent more charming and seductive than in the past with light make-up. It was no wonder Xiao Lin Yu was stunned.
"I..." Although Xiao Lin Yu was scolded, he still stared at her intently. Seeing her move her neck again, he considered how the crown was quite heavy and helped her remove the crown carefully without pulling her hair.
You Jin was exhausted from the day. Now she can finally relax. Feeling fortunate, she stood up, went to sit down at the round table where a table of rich food and drink had already been prepared, and then looked at Xiao Lin Yu who was still in a daze: "Come over already!"
Xiao Lin Yu woke up like he came out of a big dream. He walked up to the young woman in three steps at a time and then sat down next to her. After the two of them had a cup of wine, You Jin took a bite of each dish and felt full. Recalling the heavy makeup on her face, she went to the washing room at the back to wash up, changed into a semi-transparent begonia red undershirt, and came out.
Seeing that he was still staring at her, her face couldn't help get slightly hot: "You go wash up too. You reek of alcohol."
Xiao Lin Yu watched her come out in a faintly visible undershirt and felt that his throat was terribly dry and hoarse in an instant. He wished he could eat her right now. But hearing that she despised the smell of alcohol so much, he didn't call for water to be fetched and just casually rinsed with the water that You Jin used.
Hearing the sound of water coming from the washing room at the back, You Jin felt her face was burning hot. Although she knew about love between men and women, she only had theoretical knowledge. When she thought that tonight was the wedding night in the bridal chamber and the thing that would soon happen, she truly felt too ashamed to see people.
"What are you thinking about?" You Jin sat on the edge of the bed with her head half lowered, thinking about something she shouldn't be thinking about. What she didn't realize was that the man had finished washing. She felt herself fall into a hot embrace instantly. Hearing his low and somewhat hoarse voice falling that was accompanied by hot breath falling on neck, she was startled and shy. She couldn't help but chide softly: "What are you doing!"
You Jin was so frightened by him that she fell down on the brocade quilt. Her black hair was like ink, her eyes were as charming as silk, and the thin begonia red jacket perfectly outlined the beauty of the woman, making her ivory-like fair and flawless skin even more beautiful.
Seeing this scene, Xiao Lin Yu felt that his throat was hoarse and clogged. His adam's apple kept rolling back and forth. He bent down gently and lightly kissed the shiny red lips that he had been coveting for a long time.
Both of them were newbies. It was useless to be impatient. They couldn't get in for a long time. The blushing You Jin felt the heat from all over his body. Embarrassed, she pointed at the small box that she brought into the bridal room and told Xiao Lin Yu to dig out the booklet at the bottom of the box.
It went without saying Xiao Lin Yu flipped through it quickly as if he had found a treasure. Following suit, he tried it a few times and it really worked.
However, it wasn't always so smooth for beginners. It took only a moment to get into the good place, but it came to an abrupt end.
Xiao Lin Yu found it a little unbelievable and felt a little embarrassed. How could it be like this? Wasn't this different from what was expected?
Looking at the blank face of the woman who had tears in her eyes, as if she didn't know what happened, Xiao Lin Yu suddenly worried that he was...
Back to You Jin. Seeing him staring at her blankly, there was a mix of disbelief and embarrassment. At first she didn't understand why. Then she soon came back to her senses and her lips pursed to let out a chuckle.
A little embarrassed by her snigger, Xiao Lin Yu stretched out his arms to hold her waist tightly: "Are you laughing at Husband? En?"
You Jin's heart was tickled by his whispers. The two were originally in love with each other. Now at the right time, right place and with the right person, why would they retreat? After a short rest, another violent storm finally broke. The mountain's shortage limit of clouds and rains increased bit by bit.
Back to the servants outside the yard of the bridal room were waiting for the master to call for water tonight. They changed the water five or six times from the first half of the night to the second half of the night. The female attendants who have already learned about human affairs were all covering their mouths and snickering. Seemed like their Xiao Family's branch will be able to flourish with leaves soon~
It was really a moment of spring night worth a thousand gold.
The author had something to say: Little bit of driving. Cuties, don't report me! Pick up my rocking car and run away~~~
Chapter 163: Main Story Ends!
Before You Jin opened her eyes, her consciousness was already awake. That was until she was hugged tightly in an embrace without leaving any gaps. When she opened her eyes, she saw Xiao Lin Yu, who was only two inches away from her. Although he wasn't awake yet, there was a faint joy on his face.
The smell within the closed room made people blush and heartbeat accelerated. The limbs that felt disassembled and reassembled were sore all over. Subconsciously, sheI thought of the tossing from last night to this morning. Her whole person was like a boiled shrimp, holding her face and feeling ashamed to face others.
After thinking about it for a thousand times, she noticed the faint sunshine outside the red wedding tent pouring in from the glass window. You Jin belatedly remembered that she needed to meet her parents-in-law today and hurriedly broke free from the man's shackles and sat up: "Heaven! My face is really going to be lost!"
The man who was tragically abandoned was lying on his side. Supporting his head with one hand, he looked lazily at the young woman bathed in the morning sun. The smile on his lips increased by thirty percent: "Didn't you cry and say that you were tired? Why don't you sleep more?"
Hearing his dirty words, You Jin's cheeks glowed. She gave him a delicate glare: "How dare you say that! You know we're going to see the parent-in-laws today!"
Seeing the young woman's snow mountains, that was loved wantonly by him all night last night, swaying slightly with the woman's movements, the man felt his eyes were dazzled. Before You Jin could finish her words, she was pressed by the man on the brocade quilt again in a blink of an eye. Another violent storm stirred up.
Qiu Fen brought four servant girls standing at the door with hot water in hands. When they heard the blushing noise coming from the bridal room, they couldn't help but take another seven or eight steps back.
When the maids entered the bridal room with the hot water that had been reheated for three rounds, all of them blushed from the room's charming air. Miss and her husband were really affectionate!
After freshening up and changing into a begonia red five prosperous dress, You Jin, who was sitting in front of the bronze mirror, glared fiercely at the man in a light red robe, a color he normally didn't wear. She was blaming him! It was pass time. Her face was completely lost.
Despite being glared at, Xiao Lin Yu was like a cat that had had enough of fish. He was so satisfied, he stepped forward to pick out a red gold inlaid with ruby, silk and Bingdi lotus hairpin: "Use this?"
Seeing that Eldest Miss had no objection, the maid who combed Eldest Miss's hair carefully put it on for Eldest Miss. Then Miss's husband can be heard lightly remarking: "It really looks good."
All the elders of Xiao Family looked at the belated newly wedded with joyful smiles on their faces. Seeing Xiao Lin Ru's mocking smile, You Jin couldn't help but feel annoyed inwardly, blaming this stinky man with no sense of propriety!
"Good child, we will be a family in the future. I hope you will spread the branches and leaves for my Xiao Family as soon as possible." Mrs. Song smiled and accepted the tea in the hand of You Jin who was kneeling on the ground. She took a sip and handed it to the maid on the side. Afterward, she took a pair of fine jade bracelets that she had prepared from the hand of the attendant: "Perfect harmony; affectionate love."
"Thank you, old Ancestor." You Jin obediently kowtowed. Then she kowtowed to Xiao Hai Ru couple one by one to offer tea and recognized relatives. Although they have known each other for a good few years, the courtesy cannot be dismissed. They went through the motion in a decent manner.
Although Xiao Family can't compare the state before the family's tens of millions of assets were confiscated, Xiao Lin Yu had helped his Majesty make money in the past few years and had gained a lot of benefits. In addition, Xiao Hai Ru was a veteran in business. He had earned a lot of family businesses in the past two years. Now the people serving at home were all loyal old servants from back then. Life was comfortable.
However, Mrs. Song didn't want to live in the city. She was used to the days of idle clouds and wild cranes at Wuliqiao. Also, the children of Su Family were very lively. So after staying for three days, the elders of Xiao Family moved out back to Wuliqiao. Only the newly wedded stayed in Luohe Prefecture City due to the custom that the bridal room cannot be vacated for a month.
Xiao Lin Yu had a rare break. He had to wait until the New Year was over before returning to the capital. Now that he was just married and had a lovely wife by his side, he couldn't care less about others. He worked hard every day and the good news spread before the New Year.
"You Yin had given birth. You Bao's is coming soon. While you, the eldest sister, are behind." When Mrs. Su found out that her daughter was pregnant, she was overjoyed, and explained the precautions during the early stages. She also told the people around her to serve with care. She was really fretting from worry.
You Yin went into labor the second day of You Jin's wedding and gave birth to 6.3 jin daughter who was carved out of the same mold as You Yin. Han Li was overjoyed. The baby name was Xin Jie-er. The first thing to do when he got home every day was to see his wife. The second thing was to hold his Xin Jie-er and coaxed and teased her.
You Bao was seven or so months along. The due date coincides with the time when Fourth Wei went to the capital to rush for the exam. Fourth Wei heard that women giving birth was like walking around the gate of hell. Thinking how he would not be able to guard her by her side when the time comes, he was quite worried.
"He is very annoying every day and is in no mood to study now." Supporting a big belly, You Bao talked about Fourth Wei to Eldest Sister and Mother with irks and amusement: "I'm afraid of it affecting his exams. It quite annoying now."
Fourth Wei had already passed the exam in the fall of this year and became a juren. Now he only had to wait for the new year period finish and go to the capital for the imperial exam. If he misses it, he will have to wait for three years. You Bao naturally knew the importance of this matter to him. So she was quite worried during this period.
You Jin knew what was bothering her sister, so she said a few words of persuasion to urge her to relax. When she went back that night, she mentioned this matter to Xiao Lin Yu. Xiao Lin Yu agreed to take it on: "Then I will go talk to Fourth Wei. You're in the early stages now, so don't worry about it."
Toward this sudden little life, Xiao Lin Yu was both happy and unhappy. Happy because he and You Jin were going to have their own child. Unhappy because he had just tasted the wonderful taste of the world and was about to be cut off for nearly a year. Just the thought of it made him depressed.
Back to Fourth Wei's side. After accepting the invite from Elder Brother-in-law, it went without saying to meet each other. After the two brothers-in-law talked at Sujiayan for half an hour, Fourth Wei went back. Xiao Lin Yu's involvement was indeed useful. After returning, Fourth Wei devoted himself to studying hard every day and only chatted with his wife a little at night every day.
When You Bao saw that he had finally recovered and prepared for the exam, she was naturally relieved and slept peacefully every day. The dark circles under her eyes mostly disappeared.
On the seventeenth day of the first lunar month, Xiao Lin Yu couple went to the capital with second branch's Mrs. Zhao and her daughter, Yue Wen Sheng, Liu Zhuo Ting, Fourth Wei, and He Xuan Hai as well as the group of thirty plus guards and maidservants.
Initially, both Mrs. Song and Mrs. Su were reluctant to let recently pregnant You Jin go, but they couldn't resist the break apart young couple. In addition, the journey was by boat. So it was considered safe. Then they found a doctor to accompany them before letting the two go to the capital together.
March spring examination, apricot list nominations.
Fourth Wei lived up to everyone's expectations and was selected as the first-class third place; Liu Zhuo Ting and Yue Wen Sheng ranked first-class nineteenth and twenty-seventh; Due to environment change, He Xuan Hai wasn't in the best state during the month in the capital. In the end, he only got the second-class 12th place. Luohe prefecture produced three first-class Jinshi, and one of them was in the top three. This news reached Luohe prefecture in just two days through the fastest messenger.
On the day when the good news reached Luohe Prefecture, You Bao gave birth to a six jin six liang baby boy. Double happiness came knocking. Fourth Wei, who rushed back after the exam, didn't miss the birth of his son in the end. Old Master Wei was so overjoyed that he named the child Xi Ge-er and ordered the family to open the warehouse and serve congee for half a month. The whole Wei family fell into a world of ecstasy.
Liu Family and Yue Family were naturally overjoyed when they got the good news. Although they weren't as wealthy as Wei Family, they still went to the temple to fulfill their vows and added a lot of incense money.
As for Xiao Family, they had received a letter from Xiao Lin Yu. Xiao Lin Feng also participated this year, but because of his unstable temperament and a playful nature, he failed to get a ranking.
"Lin Feng is like a monkey. How can he have the temperament for studying?" Mrs. Yu had thought it through. After all, now that Eldest Son had the title of a duke, it didn't matter if the youngest son had a wild temper. As long as he didn't mess with flowers and provoke butterflies, he can play with cats and dogs: "Lin Yu still detained him for another three years. After three years, he will join the stage with Lin Wen!"
Xiao Lin Wen was like his father, young and talented. But because he was only fifteen years old this year, Second Master Xiao was afraid that he wouldn't be able to withstand the pressure of the imperial examination. That's why he didn't participate this time.
"Since Lin Yu said that, he should have some ideas." Mrs. Song didn't bother with these things now. She happily read the letter sent back by her eldest grandson and said to her daughter-in-law: "However, Lin Feng is nineteen this year. It's time for his marriage to be arranged. You should pay more attention. If it's a good one, it doesn't matter if it's in Luohe Prefecture or the capital."
Yue Wen Sheng was appointed magistrate of Dingyuan County. In May, Yue Wen Sheng's marriage was settled before he took his post. Afterward, he took his wife to Dingyuan County, where he was originally from, to take up the post.
Initially, Yue Wen Sheng wanted to bring Mrs. Han with him, but Mrs. Han didn't want to go back to Dingyuan. What's more, Luohe Prefecture not only had the asset she worked hard for, but also her eldest daughter and youngest son. How could she bear to leave? Yue Wen Sheng couldn't force it, so he only took his wife to take office.
Liu Zhuo Ting was lucky. He was assigned to a county under the state capital of Luohe Prefecture. It was only three or four hours away on horseback from Luohe Prefecture, which was very cheap.
As for Fourth Wei, he was going to enter the imperial court. So he stayed at home until the baby's full moon. After a letter from the capital urged him to go to the capital, he went to the capital alone to take up his post. His wife had to wait until the child was a hundred days old before going to the capital.
You Bao knew that he missed her. Naturally, she too was reluctant to part with him. The couple reluctantly parted. Fourth Wei took a letter for You Jin from You Bao to the capital.
Back to the capital city's side. After returning to the capital, Xiao Lin Yu asked for a mandated title for You Jin. Now You Jin was already a second rank commandery duchess. And because Xiao Lin Yu was quite favored by his Majesty, she was gradually integrating into the circle of noble ladies in the capital. After receiving a letter from younger sister, she also made plans to buy a house for younger sister.
Initially, You Bao had discussed it with her mother-in-law. She considered how they would probably live in the capital permanently and she asked Eldest Sister to find a house for her.
Although You Jin was pregnant and couldn't handle much trouble, there were full of servants who had been mingling in the capital all their lives in the commandery duke's manor. So this matter was properly sorted. Within two or three days, a triple entry property in the alley where most of the court officials lived was found. Xinghua Lane in the inner city was only a quarter of an hour away from the imperial palace. So it was very beneficial.
After seeing it, You Jin made a decision to buy it and arranged for someone to tidy it up carefully, so that it was liveable when You Bao arrives in a month or two.
In the blink of an eye, it was August. You Ling was marrying out. Because of the inconvenience of being pregnant, You Jin sent Qiu Fen couple back with the two big carts that she and You Bao had prepared to garner face for You Ling.
Qiu Fen also got married this year. She was still serving in Eldest Miss's courtyard as a married supervisor. Her husband was the captain of the first guard team in the commandery duke's manor. The couple were naturally hardworking when they got this job. Before You Ling's wedding, they rushed back to Luohe Prefecture to add dowry.
Now You Bao had also come to the capital. Although one sister had just given birth and the other was still pregnant, they still couldn't relax. Therefore, 'Drunk Rouge' cosmetic shop and'Sujiayan' were opened next to each other on Zhuque Street.
Xiao Lin Yu was a little worried when he saw that his wife was busy going in and out with her belly supported. But seeing her looking radiant every day and remembering that the doctor advised that she should move around more when she was pregnant to facilitate the delivery, he could only give more instructions to the servants around her and let her be.
Back then, not long after the 'Sujiayan' in Luohe Prefecture was opened, Mrs. Su tried and improved all the recipes she remembered one by one and compiled them into a Su Family cookbook. Then, implementing You Jin's idea, she bought out four under-twelve children to learn how to cook.
It had been three or four years now. Although the skills of these children weren't comparable to those of Mrs. Su, they have already learned 70% to 80% of it. This solved the problem of cooks in the 'Sujiayan' in the capital.
It was also based on this cookbook of Su Family that the 'Sujiayan' had become very popular in the capital after it opened. It had become a restaurant favored by many high-ranking officials and dignitaries. Later, the cooks of Sujiayan gradually formed a new faction of chefs. The name of this faction was called 'Sujiayan'.
As for Su Family, they also made a fortune that they could never finish spending in their lifetimes with this skill. Xiao Family was also very satisfied with this fortune-making daughter-in-law.
At the end of October of the same year, You Jin gave birth to a pair of twin sons. The whole Xiao Family celebrated together. Only Xiao Lin Yu watched his wife hug this brat now and that brat then. Then he thought of the fair and lovely little niece from Han Family and felt depressed for a long time. He secretly decided that he must give birth to a daughter.
Three years later, after Xiao Lin Yu's unremitting efforts, he finally gave birth to a pair of twin daughters. When the initially happy old father saw his daughters holding hands with the brats next door, he became very depressed again. Those are her daughters. What are you stinky brats doing!
Chapter 164 Extra Story Two In One
Extra episode one
The servants of the Duke's manor noticed something was wrong. Two months after Madam gave birth to the two little sons, for some reason the Duke suddenly slept in the study for half a month. When hearing the Duke's arrival, the initially smiling madam immediately lost her smile and was indifferent to everyone.
What did Commandery Duke do to annoy Madam?! The people in the entire commandery duke manor were afraid and felt gossipy, wanting to know the inside story but no one knew.
However, there were two maidservants who thought they had some beauty and wanted to take advantage of the cold war between the Duke and his wife. They were kicked away without even touching the hem of the Duke's clothes and sold overnight.
After two times like this, the others in the commandery duke manor who still have these small thoughts dared not think about it. After all, they were still first rank and second rank maids in the commandery duke manor. If they were sold, who knows how they will be trampled on then.
Xiao Lin Yu didn't care about these things, his mind was on how to coax his wife.
It was night, Commandery Duke Kick-To-Study-To-Sleep Xiao took advantage of the night to sneak into the main courtyard. Then he sent away all the nightwatch servants. Even the two stinky little boys were taken away by the nannies. You Jin, who was still taking a bath in the pool at the back of the room, enjoyed the heat from the hot towel over her eyes and sighed. Completely ignorant of the situation outside.
Xiao Lin Yu just came in and saw the painting of a smooth-icy-jade-like beautiful woman bathing. He couldn't help swallowing hard. He walked behind her, cleaned his hands first, rolled up his sleeves, and massaged her shoulders exposed outside the water. His hands slowly and unconsciously move forward together...
Feeling the heat of his hands, You Jin immediately removed the towel covering her face, and coquettishly glared: "What is Commandery Duke doing here?"
What she didn't realize was that when she sat up straight, two red plums also came out of the water. The snow mountain that had grown a lot due to giving birth was more rounded and slightly rippled waves in the water.
Xiao Lin Yu had been a vegetarian for nearly a year. Now seeing this scene, he felt like he was about to explode.
Seeing that he didn't speak and his gaze became more and more hot, You Jin followed his gaze. She lowered her head and exclaimed: "Ah! You stinky rascal!"
She quickly squatted down again, only showing her head outside .
Xiao Lin Yu, who couldn't see the beautiful scenery, coughed dryly, squatted down to look at You Jin. He explained to her: "I really didn't mean to hide it from you. In name, I was already dead at that time. What to do, if you get implicated?"
It turned out that You Jin found out in the commandery duke manor that Xiao Lin Yu had been doing things under the pseudonym Third Yu for his Majesty. Being hidden from her and being tricked for so long, she felt quite upset. So she simply drove him to sleep in the study.
"How did you promise me when you proposed to marry me? You said you would never lie to me again!" What You Jin cared about wasn't that he lied to herself back then, but that he said he would never lie to himself and now it turned out that he was a big liar.
Seeing his wife's wet eyes looking at him pitifully, even if Xiao Lin Yu had a hundred-times steel skills, he turned into soft fingers.
Not caring of whether his clothes would get wet, he half-kneeled by the side of the bath and lovingly kissed the woman's moist lips. Every kiss was an apology: "Jin-er, I was wrong..."
"Jin-er, it would be nice to forgive your husband once..."
"Jin-er..."
You Jin didn't know how it became like this. She was clearly angry with him, but she unknowingly got entangled with him. The water in the bathroom splashed all over the floor. The woman felt soft and weak. Her star eyes half-closed. Along with the waves of water that stir without wind, the waves and the whole body shudder. When the hot water was slightly cool, the woman's unsteady breath and the man's heavy breath overlapped. It couldn't get any more ambiguous.
In the early morning of the next day, Commandery Duke, who had been neglected for more than half a month, came out of the main room in good spirits. He specially instructed people to disturb Madam. Only then, he went to the court with bright eyes.
As for the young woman in the room, her black hair was scattered like ink on the begonia red brocade quilt. Her cheeks were flushed, while her half-closed eyelids trembled slightly. Remembering that they had presumptuously tossed about six or seven times last night, You Jin blushed. Damn Xiao Lin Yu. He was the one who did something wrong and he still dared to treat her like this! Thinking like this, You Jin couldn't resist falling into a deep sleep. When she woke up again, it was already afternoon.
Later, Xiao Lin Yu went too far. He found a lot of fish sac from somewhere and lost his sense of proportion. As long as the two of them were together, they would mess around. Every time she was eaten until there was no strength to raise her hand, she found it fortunate. Thankfully there were these fish sac. If not, she would be like an old pig mother, giving birth to one after another?
Extra episode 2: The stories of Su Family's younger sisters
You Zhu's wedding was scheduled for the eighth day of February in the following year after You Ling's. Five of Su Family's girls had already married. You Luo's marriage had also been settled, to the third son of the largest grain merchant in Luohe Prefecture, Zhu Family. His name was Zhu Fei. Zhu Fei was sixteen this year, while You Luo was fifteen this year. Their age was a good match. The wedding date was set for March next year.
Except for Eldest Sister's dowry, the other Su Family's girls followed the standard of Second Elder Sister You Yin. But with the dowry additions from the sisters, You Zhu's dowry was equivalent to about 30,000 liang. Plus Xu Family's dowry, it was almost 40,000 liang. On the eighth day of February, it was another grand wedding for Su Family.
"Xu Mao Lin, you jerk!" During the wedding night in the bridal chamber, the pain caused You Zhu to bite Xu Mao Lin's arm with all her strength. Defenseless Xu Mao Lin cried out in pain. Then his voice was a little low and threatening: "You Zhu, don't make trouble!"
How could You Zhu be frightened by him? Releasing one spot, she bit him hard for the second time.
But Xu Mao Lin didn't find it unpleasant, instead he enjoyed it. He hugged You Zhu's waist tightly, turned over and reversed the situation of the two of them, her fair arms propped on his chest. She tried to break free, but the people underneath started to move. She was so startled that she yelled softly: "Don't move around."
One must know that Xu Mao Lin was from a military background. How could she escape so easily? He held her waist firmly and put in all his strength. He didn't let her go until the woman threw away her armor and surrendered.
The red candles burned all night. The wedding tent embroidered with a hundred 'zi' and a hundred 'fu' also swayed all night without the help of any wind. You Zhu, who was lying on the brocade quilt, was still bearing the energy that Xu Mao Lin had finally found an outlet to vent. As she became drowsy, she thought how when she had had enough sleep, she would definitely beat up this damned stupid donkey!
Naturally, Xu Mao Lin didn't mind playing with his sweet wife's flamboyant fists and embroidered legs. This was considered a different kind of couple's fun. Before the wedding, he let You Zhu win. After marrying, every time it was You Zhu being pressed on the carved bed and end up crying and shouting.
Xu Mao Lin was very satisfied with this ending. Every time he deliberately provoked his wife to realize his 'unspeakable' secret. The result was that the two got married after only two months and You Zhu became pregnant.
Another year gone by. After You Luo got married, there were only recently come-to-age You Chou and thirteen-year-old You Duan in the family. The only male, Su Kang already became a Xiucai in this year's spring exam at the age of thirteen. After so many years, Su Family's lintel was finally changed.
You Yin gave birth to a son in winter. Han Family can be regarded as having a successor. As for Han Er Hua, who still had the blood of the loyal and brave family in his bones, he insisted on going to northern Xinjiang to join the army last year. This year, he wrote a letter saying that he had become a ninth-rank commandant and wanted to earn a new glory in the battlefield to comfort the ancestors of Han Family.
Fifteen years later
Fifteen years was neither too long nor too short. It was enough to turn the small Wuliqiao Village into a bustling town. It was enough to turn the child who was waiting to be fed into a handsome young man.
Xiao Family's old Ancestor passed away seven years ago. According to her last wish, she was buried with Xiao Family's old Master in the newly built Xiao Family cemetery near Wuliqiao.
Xiao Hai Ru and his wife were also getting older and they were used to life in Luohe Prefecture. So they also chose to stay here.
This year was Xiao Hai Ru's 60th birthday. It went without saying that Xiao Family would have a celebration. Second Master Xiao, who had already retired, brought Mrs. Zhao back to live next to his elder brother's house. It was lively with the two families living together.
It took nearly twenty five kilometers to reach Luohe Prefecture. Xiao Lin Yu and his wife brought their four children, while Xiao Lin Feng couple took their only son. There were also Xiao Lin Ru's family and Xiao Lin Wen's family. Including the maids and attendants, guards, etc., a group of seventy-eighty people slowly made their way to Luohe Prefecture.
"Xiao Chu Zheng, as an elder brother, how can you take your younger siblings to ride horses like this?" In the midst of setting up a camp to rest in the middle, You Jin, who was in her early thirties but still maintained the face and figure of a young girl, stared at Eldest Son standing in front of her. She gave him a good lecture: "Your younger brother from Aunt's family is only eleven years old. You dare to take him to ride a horse?"
Xiao Lin Ru married Leader Guard Xiao thirteen years ago. Leader Guard Xiao regained his original surname, surnamed Liu. Through Xiao Lin Yu's recommendation, he joined the Imperial Forest Army. Now he was the deputy commander of the Imperial Forest Army. hE have a son and a daughter with Xiao Lin Ru. Eldest Son Liu Peng was only eleven years old this year and liked to play with his eldest cousin brother most.
"It's all fine. It's mainly because Peng-er is naughty. So don't blame Chu Zheng." On the side, Xiao Lin Ru glared at Liu Peng. What a brat!
Xiao Chu Zheng was fifteen this year. He was already a handsome young man. Still, he was scolded by his mother. He knew that he really shouldn't take his younger brother on horseback. So he seriously admitted his mistake: "Yes, Son knows my mistake."
Although there were some small episodes, Xiao Family group arrived at Wuliqiao before dark.
Now this place was no longer the Wuliqiao where there were only Su Family on the west side of the river. Now most of the east side of the Wuliqiao River was still the original villagers and their descendants. While the west side of the Wuliqiao had become a small and narrow town that led to the pier outside the city gate of Luohe Prefecture. Both sides of the official road were extremely lively.
Xiao Hai Ru was celebrating his birthday this year. Naturally, there will be a lot of liveliness.
Su Family, Yue Family, Liu Family, and Wei Family were all in-laws. It went without saying that they were invited. As for the upper-class circles in Luohe Prefecture, it was an honor to receive the invitation.
On the day of the birthday banquet, the upper-class people in Luohe Prefecture saw that all the eight Su Family's girls had arrived. The eldest one was already in their early thirties, but still looked the same as when she was unmarried more than ten years ago. On the contrary, her whole vibe was impressive and noble. Then looking at the other Su Family's girls. All of them were like Eldest Daughter, they haven't aged for more than ten years.
Especially Su Family's youngest daughter. She married into the Commandery Prince's family in the capital and became the commandery princess! Looking at her impressive style now, how luxurious was it? As for Su Family's only son, he had already become the magistrate of Luohe Prefecture. At the age of twenty-six, he was already a third rank. On top of that, every one of his sisters was more powerful than another. Who would touch him?
After this birthday banquet, many wealthy families and even ordinary people in Luohe Prefecture gradually began to change their minds. Who said that daughters weren't good? Look at Su Family! Eight daughters! Each one was better than the other! Who wasn't envious! The more they thought about it, the more they felt that their own daughter could do it. The emphasis on girls gradually increased. There were more and more female academies in Luohe Prefecture. But the most prosperous one was still Erya Female Academy.
Su Family's girls didn't expect these changes to be caused by their own affairs. In future generation's Luohe Prefecture's state records, this matter was recorded, saying: "Everyone in the Dafeng Dynasty knew that Su Family produced good daughters."
The author had something to say: thank you, little cuties, for your support over the past few months, Qing Shan is very grateful. See you in the next book~~mua~~~Waving claws~~~
T/N: Thank you Readers for all your support and patience throughout this journey. The release was a bit bumpy as RL was a bit hectic. Still another novel finished XD What do you think of the ending?
THE END
