Chapter 6
At this time, the shop boss had finished making tea and brought out the tea.
Immediately, a delicate fragrance of tea wafted out.
It was a top-quality sparrow tongue tea. Only pity was that the shop's cooking method was wrong and had damaged the fragrance of this tea. Jiang Yun Zhu had tasted it in Marquis Anping's Manor in her dream. That's why she immediately made this judgment when she smelled the tea fragrance.
Yang Sheng frowned. But now that he was extremely thirsty, he couldn't pay much attention to it.
He took the teapot, brought it to Shen Feng Ming, and poured a bowl for him first. Then he poured himself a bowl. Ignoring the high temperature, he started to drink it without a care.
Seeing him like this, it seemed that he was only having a casual conversation with Jiang Yun Zhu group just now and won't do anything to them.
As if being released, Jiang Yun Zhu directed at Jiang Cheng, "Father, it is time for us to make our way."
Jiang Cheng immediately got up and went to settle the bill with the boss. The buns and side dishes were Yang Sheng's treat. They only had to pay for the tea and water.
The shop boss suggested buying Jiang Yun Zhu's method of purifying water.
Jiang Cheng called Jiang Yun Zhu over and asked her opinion.
Of course Jiang Yun Zhu was willing. Ordinary people don't have the guts to use this method, while the rich won't use it. Only the shop boss was willing to buy it. This was a rare opportunity.
The shop boss refused to pay too much. One, he thought the method was quite simple. Only that, he didn't see it clearly just now. That's why he specially bought it from Jiang Yun Zhu. Second, if it was too expensive, it was the same if he didn't use it. Anyway, the people who came to his shop were ordinary people. Who knows when the next time they'll encounter those like Yang Sheng group.
After some conversation, the shop boss finally used three baskets of steamed stuffed buns, two buckets of water, and made their bill free before buying the water filter method.
Just like that, Jiang Cheng group felt that they got it for nothing and were extremely happy.
Great, Jiang Yun Zhu's brows curved into crescents too. At least there were meat buns to eat tonight.
After they left, Yang Sheng looked at Jiang Yun Zhu's back and sighed, "It's a pity."
Shen Feng Ming looked up at him.
Yang Sheng laughed, "As the saying goes, a clever woman often matched with a clumsy husband. This girl comes from a humble family background. Don't know which clumsy husband she'll marry to in the future. Isn't it a pity?"
He was the son of General Yang as well as Shen Feng Ming's deputy and friend. That's why he was one of the few people who dared to talk to Shen Feng Ming like this.
Shen Feng Ming didn't want to answer him.
However, Yang Sheng suddenly spoke, "How about I take her with me?"
Yang Sheng was a compassionate man. There were countless beauties in the Manor.
"Our business takes priority!" Shen Feng Ming said.
Yang Sheng put away his smile and complained, "That's how you are. You give a damn to girls. Don't you know that my old lady is suspecting that you don't like women and have something toward me."
"Really?" Shen Feng Ming's voice was as cold as icicles under the eaves in winter.
Yang Sheng quickly shook his head and talked about business.
After leaving the steamed stuffed bun shop, Jiang Yun Zhu kept urging everyone to hurry. She didn't relax until the shop was completely out of sight.
"Who are those people just now? What we said shouldn't have any effect, right?" Now that he thought about it, Father Xu felt that he had talked too much to Yang Sheng.
Of course it had an effect. The officials of Changfeng may get into trouble, Jiang Yun Zhu mentally answered. There wasn't anything to say though. If those officials were innocent, naturally they wouldn't be afraid of Shen Feng Ming. If not, they deserve it even if they get killed by Shen Feng Ming for disregarding the lives of the common people.
"It should be fine. We should quickly make our way to Lu Prefecture." As Jiang Yun Zhu comforted Father Xu, she didn't forget to urge him.
There might be trouble in Changfeng. It was better for them to leave early.
Ten days later, in front of the Yamen of Changfeng. Dozens of human heads rolled to the ground, while blood splattered everywhere.
Shen Feng Ming stood in the pool of blood. He was dressed in black clothes. On his handsome face were splatters of blood, like a god in the abattoir.
No one dared to look up at him. The only thought in their hearts was that he deserved the reputable name Shen No Keep. Yang Sheng had a worried expression on his face. He was worried about Shen Feng Ming. These officials in Changfeng didn't properly use the disaster relief and selfishly pocketed it. They should be killed.
However, there were also those who shouldn't be killed.
But Shen Feng Ming killed them all, leaving no leeway.
Don't he know that steel was so fragile. Everyone was afraid of him. The next step was everyone hoping for his death!
Looking at the history books. Such people generally don't have a good ending. If it really reached that point, the emperor won't be able to save him.
Yang Sheng really wanted to persuade his friend, but he also knew that he couldn't persuade him. Truly a sad person.
At this time, Jiang Yun Zhu group finally left the boundary of Changfeng and arrived in Lu Prefecture.
In Lu Prefecture, Jiang Yun Zhu instantly felt a little emotional. The Marquis of Anping was in Lu Prefecture. In her dream, she was in Lu Prefecture. Jiang Cheng and the others fled to Lu Prefecture, but they hadn't seen each other for a few years. She had come to Lu Prefecture again. Jiang Yun Xiu should have arrived too. It can be seen that they have a predestined relationship with this Lu Prefecture.
After more than half a month of running around, the fifty jins of sorghum pancakes prepared by Mrs. Chen and others had already been eaten. Everyone was dusty and disheveled.
Lu Prefecture citizen's livelihood was obviously much better than that of Changfeng. The food price was stable and the water source was abundant. Finally, people didn't need to buy water to drink. A lot of money was saved.
They continued to move forward. On the third day, it suddenly rained. Slick like oil and fine.
It had been almost two years since they saw rain. Jiang Cheng wiped the raindrops off his face with his hands, feeling extremely excited. It seemed that their decision to come to Lu Prefecture was correct.
"I've inquired about it. It'll take five days to reach Wuling County." Xu Qing Shan jogged back and told everyone.
Five days! Another piece of good news. Everyone seemed to have regained their strength.
In Wuling County, one can see a large stretch of green hills spreading from a distance. It goes on like there was no end. That was Wuling Mountain.
The citizens and life here was very rich. After inquiring, they found out that there were iron mines in Wuling Mountain.
In the early years, when the nearby villagers went up the mountain, they could often pick up some black stones. After bringing it home, merchants would buy them. At first they didn't know what they were. Later the feudal official sent people over. Only then, they realized that they were iron ore.
The Xia Dynasty had strict control over salt and iron. Soon, a large number of troops entered the mountains to mine and smelt iron.
All these projects required manpower. So more than half of the people in Wuling County worked in the mountains. The wages paid by the feudal official weren't low. All the people in Wuling County live well.
Jiang Cheng was tempted when he heard it. Currently, they have no land, no property, and less than two liang of silver left in their hands. How can such a big family live on? If they could go to the mountains to work, they would be paid 20 wen a day. In one month, it was six silver coins. In a few years, they would be able to own their own houses and fields.
Xu Qing Shan was also very moved when he heard it. Six silver coins a month was quite high.
"Of course it is high. Not everyone can do the job. You have to have strength." The old man who spoke eyed Jiang Cheng and Xu Qing Shan up and down. They were both very sturdy looking. So they should be okay.
"Also, there are frequent accidents on the mountain. Oh!" The old man sighed. Wuling County's success and failure was this mining mountain. In that stretch of mine, countless Wuling County's youth and sturdy ones were buried.
Jiang Cheng couldn't care about it that much now. He just wanted to make money so that his wife and children would have enough to eat and drink. If he didn't go into the mountains and work elsewhere, starvation or suffering in the cold may happen.
Having a straw to grasp, he decided to stay in Wuling County for the time being and not go south.
Father Xu was naturally happy when he heard this. They had shared weal and woe with Jiang Family for so many days. He knew their temperament and he was reluctant to part with them.
Everyone decided to go to Changshi Village together to have a look before making plans.
Changshi Village wasn't far from Wuling Mountain. There was a small river flowing through the village and the river water was clear. Many families in the village have built new houses with blue brick and tile. It was golden dusk right now. Cooking smoke was curling up. Quite a thriving scene.
Xu Qing Shan inquired with a passing villager and found out the address of his distant cousin uncle, Gu Yong De.
It was the largest and best built house in the village.
Looking at the majestic house, Father Xu and Xu Qing Shan felt uneasy. Who knew what the other party would think as they hadn't been in contact and suddenly came knocking. Besides, they were so rich, while they were so poor...
Before they could knock on the door, a youth walked out of the yard.
The youth was dressed in a blue cloth robe. His hair was tied up high. His facial features were handsome, while his aura was bookish. Quite noble and elegant. He really looked like the noble son of a rich family.
"Who are you?" The young man's voice was polite and nice.
Father Xu declared his family name.
"It's Cousin Uncle and Elder Cousin Brother. Please come in." The youth enthusiastically said. Afterward, he shouted into the courtyard, "Father, Mother, Cousin Uncle and Elder Cousin Brother are here!"
With just this one sentence, Father Xu and Xu Qing Shan almost shed tears. The saying that 'one good sentence warms the winter, while bad words hurt people and makes June cold' was true.
There was movement inside. Shortly later, a middle-aged couple came out. Seeing Father Xu duo, they felt kinship. While welcoming them into the courtyard, they asked them how they were doing in the past few years.
Father Xu said good over and over again. When they were about to enter the door, he suddenly thought of Jiang Cheng's family. They haven't found a place yet!
Looking outside, he found the spot where Jiang Cheng group were standing just now was empty.
Here's what happened: seeing that Father Xu and his son found their relatives and the relatives were very friendly, Jiang Cheng was relieved. He didn't want to bother Father Xu and have him beg others for them. Leading Mrs. Chen and the others, he left silently.
Father Xu internally gave thumbs up. Jiang Family was really the best.
Suddenly he noticed Xu Qing Shan's distraught reaction and understood. He knew that he had a crush on that girl from Jiang Family. He also liked that girl. It would be wonderful if she could marry in.
Since Jiang Family decided to stay here, there was no rush.
Jiang Cheng led Mrs. Chen and others across a street and saw an old woman picking beans at the door. The old woman looked to have a mild disposition. So Mrs. Chen went over to ask if there was anyone in the village who would rent out a house.
Appearance-wise, Mrs. Chen seemed gentle. While her speech was pleasant to hear. When the old woman heard that they had sought refuge and considered how the old and young were all sallow and emaciated, she felt pity for them.
"My family had a courtyard at the head of the village. We used to live there. Later we built this new house and over there became vacant. If you want to rent it, I can rent it to you."
Hearing this, Mrs. Chen was overjoyed, "Thank you, Auntie."
However, the old woman interjected, "Don't rush to thank me. The house can be rented to you and the money can be discussed, you aren't local though. If you want to rent a house and stay here, you need the consent of the village chief as well as reporting it to the feudal official."
This point was to make it difficult for evil people. The other was the village chief. Why should he agree to you, a stranger, to stay in the village? Also, you need to go to the feudal official to guarantee you.
Mrs. Chen's heart jumped out again, "Can I ask who is the village chief?"
The old woman pointed to the best house in the village, "Over there. The village chief's surname is Gu. His name was Gu Yong De."
Chapter 7
What a coincidence. Jiang Cheng remembered that the household that Father Xu entered just now was the village head's house the old woman mentioned. With a plan in mind, he went over to the old woman and asked her to allow them some time. He also explained that at this moment, the village chief was reuniting with Father Xu and he didn't want to disturb him.
"That's reasonable." The old woman was relieved when she heard that they had sought refuge with the village chief's relatives.
"Come on, I'll show you the house first." She said with the basket in her hand.
She walked ahead, while Jiang Cheng group quickly followed.
There was a property at the head of the village, by mountains and rivers. The property was very large. There were four main rooms and three side rooms. A stove, a cellar, etc. were available. There was also some furniture.
The house wasn't new. Still, it was much better than the house Jiang Family lived in before. It was spacious and sturdy.
"This was where we used to live. After all, we had built a new house, no?" Speaking of the new house, the old woman's face was full of joy.
Jiang Cheng saw her new house just now. It had five main rooms and was double entry. Truly magnificent. Envious sprouted in his heart. When would he have a house like this? He would be satisfied then.
There will be. Once he enters the mine, they will get everything. He was full of expectations for the future.
The two negotiated a price, one liang a year. Just waiting for Jiang Cheng to find the village head tomorrow and report to the county before the contract will be signed.
For now, Jiang Family can stay there tonight.
The old woman was a local. She wasn't afraid of the outsider Jiang Family playing tricks.
Jiang Cheng and Mrs. Chen were very grateful. They expressed at once that they met a good person. Such a good house was only a silver liang a year.
Seeing how polite and courteous they were, the old woman was delighted. She had lived in that house for more than ten years. Of course, she would have some attachment to it. She was relieved to rent it to such a family. If not, she would choose to not have that little money over others defiling her house.
"Alright. You must be tired. Tidy up and get some rest!" The old woman cheerfully left.
After closing the door, Mrs. Chen took in the bright house. Then she turned to Jiang Cheng and the others. Her eyes reddened again. Finally, they had a place to live again.
Jiang Cheng was also emotional. Holding her hand, he said, "It will get better."
Mrs. Chen nodded fiercely. She used to say this to comfort herself, but now, she believes, yes, it will get better!
The family started to tidy up the house.
The house was well maintained. Just a bit of cleaning, it was habitable.
Jiang Yun Zhu was busy tidying up her room. Finally, she can sleep in a bed again! She didn't expect that Father Xu's journey to seek relatives would be so smooth. Even they benefitted.
Jiang Wu Ze ran back and forth excitedly, looking here and there for a while. From time to time, he asked Mrs. Chen and the others with his small face raised, "Mother, can we really live here in the future?"
"Of course." Never getting tired, Mrs. Chen and the others would answer him. The huge courtyard became lively again.
In the evening, someone knocked on the door. It turned out that the old woman considered how Jiang Family had nothing to eat as they had just arrived here and brought over a pot of hot soup and a few pancakes mixed with white flour.
"How can this do? We can't accept it." Mrs. Chen hurriedly responded. Pancakes made with a mix of white flour were only eaten on special occasions.
The old woman didn't mind. The people in Wuling County were rich. This pancake was just their daily food.
Leaving the pancakes behind, she left.
This night, Jiang Family drank hot soup and ate hot pancakes. They felt their heart was warmed.
Out of the blue, a thought flashed in Jiang Cheng's mind. They fled at this time and only had six silver liang in their hands. It was a smooth journey thanks to meeting Father Xu pair He really didn't dare to imagine how hard it would be.
Fortunately, fortunately!
After a sweet night, Jiang Cheng got up early the next morning, washed himself up, and went to find the village chief, Gu Yong De.
Gu Yong De didn't know him, but old Father Xu knew him well. He immediately recounted how Jiang Cheng helped him drive away a thief and then the two families supported each other until the safe arrival in Changshi Village. His words were all praise for Jiang Cheng.
"It turned out that this is the case. This matter is easy to handle then." Gu Yong De believed old Father Xu. Wuling County was currently short of people. As long as he speaks, it will be possible.
"Thank you, thank you." Jiang Cheng thanked Gu Yong De. Then he thanked Father Xu.
"Oh, between us two families, there's no for 'thanks'." Father Xu's words seemed to have deep meaning.
In fact, Jiang Cheng took a liking to Xu Qing Shan. Xu Family's population was simple. If Jiang Yun Zhu marries over, she probably won't suffer grievances. But this matter had to be discussed with Jiang Yun Zhu. Now wasn't a good time to talk about it. So he pretended not to understand.
Gu Yong De was a man of action. Perfect timing. Old Father Xu and Xu Qing Shan wanted to permanently stay here and would have to go through this process.
The three of them went to the county yamen together.
In less than two hours, Jiang Cheng came back with a happy face.
"Is it done?" Mrs. Chen was standing at the door waiting.
Jiang Cheng showed her the household registration certificate in his hand, "We owe the village chief and Xu Family a big favor again."
For it to go smoothly, the package of tea leaves that Gu Yong De stuffed into the county yamen played a big role.
How could they request something from another and get them to pay? Even if the money wasn't all for him, Jiang Cheng felt that he owed the other party too much. He made up his mind that if he had money in the future, he must repay it double. Mrs. Chen held the certificate and looked at it with joy. Only then, she properly put it away. At this point, they were considered to be citizens of Wuling County. They no longer have to worry about being arrested by the feudal officials as refugees or get driven back to their original places.
"I'll go to Auntie Zhao to sign the contract for renting the house." Jiang Cheng decided to settle all these matters in one go.
"I'll go with you." Mrs. Chen responded.
Not long after, the two came back with a signed contract. Everything was sorted.
There was only less than one silver liang left in their hand. Mrs. Chen spoke, "I'll go to the town to buy some food and things to use."
She pondered whether the one silver liang was enough to spend. If it doesn't, she'll pawn the hairpin left by her mother. Although she was unwilling, they had to rebuild everything in a new home. In addition, the weather was getting colder and colder. They'll have to get quilts sooner or later as well as increasing the amount of clothes on most days. There were areas to spend money on.
"I'll ask in the afternoon how I can get work in the mines." Jiang Cheng knew the difficulties at home and said immediately.
After hastily eating something at noon, the couple moved separately.
When Jiang Yun Zhu heard that Mrs. Chen was going to the town, she immediately offered to go with her. She wanted to check the prices here and come up with a way to make money. As for Jiang Cheng working in the mine, it was better to not go if he could not go. It was too dangerous.
When Jiang Lin and the others heard this, they immediately wanted to follow.
Mrs. Chen thought that since she had a lot of things to buy later, it would be good for them to follow along to help with carrying.
The few people went to the town together.
Although Hongye Town was just a small town, because the people were rich, the streets were busier than Jiang Yun Zhu's original county town. There were people selling cloth, food, furniture, mules and horses.
Mrs. Chen went shopping everywhere.
Jiang Yun Zhu looked left and right.
The freshly baked sesame seed cakes filled with meat cost three wens, while five-spiced ones cost a wen. Oily meat pies cost five wens each. When buying one, a bowl of millet congee and pickles were complimentary. Even from a distance, one can smell the fragrant mutton soup. A bowl was 10 wens. Paired a two wens pancake, it was satisfying...
Jiang Yun Zhu specially checked those who sell food. She had clearly thought it out. She had no capital and no connections. There was no way to do other businesses. Then it was only making food. Though it was hard work, the capital was low. And once it was done right, they'll earn money.
Back in modern times, she liked to cook. In her dream, she stayed in the kitchen of the Marquis Anping for two years and learned a lot of skills. As long as she finds the right location, it shouldn't be difficult to sell some snacks.
It was just that she couldn't make up her mind on what to make for a while.
In the evening, the group returned with a full load of things.
Pots, pans, food, oil and salt, and two bolts of cloth to make a quilt were bought. Finally, it looked liveable.
Jiang Cheng had already been waiting at home, "I have already made an agreement with the person in charge of recruiting. I will go to work in the mine tomorrow. Six silver coins a month. One month's wages can be paid in advance." Excited, he finished talking and handed a large string of copper coins to Mrs. Chen.
A large string of heavy money seemed to have more impact than a corner of a silver. What's more, the family was currently short of money.
"Is it possible to get paid in advance?" Mrs. Chen happily accepted the money and asked.
"The recruiter said that there is a shortage of people in the mine recently. So this new regulation was added." Jiang Cheng replied. He came at a good time.
"There are so many people going and there's still a shortage? Such a high salary..." Though Mrs. Chen was happy, she was suddenly worried again.
"It's okay. I checked it. I can do the job. Besides, everyone in the county is working there. Everyone else is fine. So what can happen to me?" Jiang Cheng comforted her.
Mrs. Chen found this reasonable. She hurried to cook for him so that he could rest early.
Jiang Yun Zhu was listening and suddenly slapped her head. How could she forget the most profitable place?
With so many people working in the mine, the market prospect was huge!
She immediately asked Jiang Cheng about the mine in detail, mainly focusing on food and accommodation.
Jiang Cheng had already visited the mine today and had a certain understanding of it. When it came to food, these workers ate at home in the morning and evening and bought their own meals for lunch. It was said that there was a canteen in the mine, but it was for the official soldiers stationed there and some experienced craftsmen.
As for accommodation, there were several large sheds on the mine. which were full oflarge shared quarters. If there were workers who lived far away from the mine, they can stay there. It was only 40 wens a month.
The living conditions were poor and it cost money. Most people in the mine would rather spend more time on returning home to live.
By the way, Jiang Cheng also saw a market at the foot of the mountain. When he went there, it happened to be working hours. There were no people there. Starting work and finishing was probably very lively.
This was it. That market was Jiang Yun Zhu's ideal place. She decided to go and see it with Jiang Cheng tomorrow.
Changshi Village was close to the mine. The next day, Jiang Cheng rushed there after breakfast.
Jiang Yun Zhu followed by his side.
Before the two of them left the village, they met people who were going to the mine. The closer they got to the mine, the more people were around them.
Once at the foot of the mountain, one can see a large area of smoke and fire from a distance. When they got closer, they could see a large market. Most of the stalls sold only food. All kinds of scents were wafting around. If one hadn't eaten in the morning, they would be tempted to the point of being fixed to the ground.
At this time, the market was very lively. Many workers as well as many soldiers on duty came here to buy food. It was completely crowded.
"At Chen hour, the gate to the mine will be closed. There will be no one here then." Jiang Cheng explained.
Chen hour was seven o'clock in the morning. These miners start work at seven o'clock in the morning. An hour break at noon. Work stopped at seven o'clock in the afternoon. Jiang Yun Zhu calculated that they have to work eleven hours a day. What's more, they were doing the most tiring physical work. It was truly bitter work.
Jiang Cheng didn't feel this. It was all work. Since such high wage was given, he was already very satisfied.
The two walked forward all the way. Jiang Yun Zhu contemplated what she should sell.
At this time, a man with a big beard in an obvious different attire passed by them. He was followed by two soldiers.
"Vice General Zhao, what do you want to eat today? I'll go and buy it for you." A soldier asked the bearded man.
"What's delicious? I've been eating these all day long. It's getting bland in my mouth." The bearded man complained.
They soon passed by.
However, Jiang Yun Zhu stopped in her tracks. She suddenly thought of what she could sell!
Chapter 8
Some lamb bones were bought. Add secret seasonings, and boil them for three hours. The bones had turned white from cooking, while the soup was mellow and fragrant. At this time, add water to the flour. Once kneaded into a dough, add water and keep kneading continuously to wash out the gluten. The excess water from washing out was poured into the bone soup. Following this, add radish, bean curd, vermicelli, spinach, etc. Finally put the kneaded gluten into the pot. Bring it to a boil on high heat. Small heat to make the soup thicker. A big pot of hot and spicy soup was completed.
That something Vice General Zhao reminded Jiang Yun Zhu that it was late autumn and they were in the mountains. Wasn't it suitable to drink this? It was hot and spicy. When drinking a bowl, all the seven orifices will be fully unblocked and all problems will be gone.
Jiang Yun Zhu scooped out a bowl, added chopped green onion and coriander, and handed it to old Mister Chen first, "Maternal Grandfather, try it."
Jiang Family was already teased by the smell of the sheep's head soup. Hearing this, old Mister Chen fumbled to take the bowl and scooped up the contents of the bowl with a spoon.
It was like soup but not completely. A strong fragrance hit his face.
When it entered the mouth, the taste of pepper exploded in the mouth immediately. Then followed by the umami of mutton soup, the sweetness of radish, the fragrance of bean curd, etc and blended together. Spicy and sour. The silky fragrance moistened the mouth, as if the soul had been awakened.
Old Father Chen took a sip. He couldn't resist and took a second. Then a third sip.
Only when he finished the whole bowl did he put down the bowl in satisfaction. At this time, fine beads of sweat appeared on the tip of his nose.
"How is it?" Jiang Yun Zhu asked eagerly.
"Comfortable." Old Mister Chen can only use this word to describe it. Drinking this soup was so much of a comfort.
This was the effect Jiang Yun Zhu wanted. She immediately asked with a smile, "Then Maternal Grandfather, what are your thoughts on me selling this soup?"
She wanted to sell #Hulatang/ Spicy soup, but Mrs. Chen didn't agree. The family only had that bit of money. If used for business and they lose money, wouldn't their family drink northwest wind this month?
With no other choice, Jiang Yun Zhu can only seek help from old Mister Chen. His words still carry weight.
Old Father Chen didn't rush to answer. He lowered his head and pondered for a while. He asked, "How much is this pot of soup's base cost?"
Jiang Yun Zhu had calculated it out a long time ago and immediately replied, "Originally, this soup tastes better when cooked with mutton, but it is cheaper to use mutton bones. These mutton bones only cost nine wens. It can be cheaper if more is bought. The rest is flour. 200g flour is three wens.
With vegetables, this soup is called Bazhen Soup, which means that there are eight kinds of vegetables in it. These dishes can be matched according to the seasons. I used the cheapest and most delicious vegetables that are in season. Adding it up, it's three wens.
Finally, there are seasonings, firewood, etc., take it as three wens. The total cost of this pot of soup is eighteen wens. "
Old Father Chen was surprised when he heard this. The cost of such a big pot of broth was this low?
"Then how much are you going to sell for a bowl?" He sensed something amissed and asked immediately.
"Two wens per a bowl. There should be twenty bowls of this pot of soup. Which means it can sell for about forty wens."
Old Father Chen was taken aback when he heard this. Such a delicious and rich soup only cost two wens a bowl? Even so, there were nearly double the profits. Good business, this was indeed a good business.
He stroked his crutch twice and suddenly suggested, "This soup should be paired with something."
Jiang Yun Zhu had also thought about this. She wants to make some white flour pancakes and stewed meat. The white cakes can be dipped in soup, or sandwich the meat between them, or eaten alone. The main reason was that it was convenient. It can be made at home and directly sold over there.
The key for selling food at the market at the foot of the mountain was speed.
Old Father Chen noticed this granddaughter wanted to start a business and wasn't messing around. She had already thought of everything.
"I think it can work!" He solemnly stated.
Mrs. Chen had tasted Jiang Yun Zhu's soup just now. When hearing her clear and logical pitch, her heart began to waver. Now she heard old Mister Chen's response, she hesitated. How about she let Jiang Yun Zhu try?
"If you want to do it, properly do it. I tasted your soup. It doesn't seem to go well with white flour pancakes. It's good with meat pancakes, but meat pancakes are too expensive." Old Mister Chen suddenly interjected at this moment.
After Jiang Yun Zhu heard this, she wanted to give him a thumbs up. Sure enough, the old man's eyes were sharp. This hulatang shouldn't be served with white flour pancakes. It should be served with Youmotou. Youmotou was similar to deep-fried dough sticks, only smaller than deep-fried dough sticks, about the length and thickness of fingers.
Freshly fried Youmotou were loose and crispy. Rolled in the hot and spicy soup, the two complement each other. Double the deliciousness!
However, Youmotou was too troublesome. They were small and required kneading and frying. So she gave up.
"How can you be afraid of trouble?" Mrs. Chen quickly said. She wasn't afraid of trouble. She was only afraid that the money invested would be in vain.
"Okay, then make Youmotou. En, meat pancakes can be made too." Jiang Yun Zhu had her own considerations.
This matter seemed to be settled like this.
The pot of soup made today can't be wasted. Mrs. Chen first scooped out a big jar and told Jiang Yun Zhu to send it to the village head and old Father Xu. Then she filled another jar for herself to send to old Mrs. Feng. Old Mrs. Feng was the old woman who rented the house to them. She had delivered pancakes and hot soup to Jiang Family before. Mrs. Chen had always kept it in her heart. She will naturally reciprocate if she had the opportunity.
The rest was left to be drunk in the evening and nourish Jiang Cheng.
The two came out of the house and one went left and one went right.
There wasn't much to say on Mrs. Chen's side. When Mrs. Feng saw her bring something, she immediately warmly invited her in. Knowing that it wasn't easy for her and the mantou happened to be steamed at home, she gave her five-six mantou. This made Mrs. Chen embarrassed.
At the village head's house, Xu Qing Shan was standing anxiously in the courtyard. Jiang Cheng had already gone to the mine today. He wanted to go too, but his cousin uncle wouldn't let him go...
At this moment, he raised his eyes and saw a person standing there holding an earthen jar.
"Yun Zhu." Xu Qing Shan hurried forward and took the jar in her hand.
"I made some soup. My mother said to give it to the village head and Uncle Xu to taste." Jiang Yun Zhu smiled and explained the purpose of her visit.
Her voice was clear and her dimple shallowly appeared when she spoke. Xu Qing Shan almost forgot to respond.
"I'll give it to Cousin Aunt." Xu Qing Shan hurriedly carried the jar into the house.
Shortly later, a woman with a kind face came out and enthusiastically chatted with Jiang Yun Zhu.
She was Gu Yong De's wife, Mrs. Lin.
Jiang Yun Zhu dutifully responded before mentioning farewell.
Xu Qing Shan sent her to the door.
Jiang Yun Zhu turned her head. Wasn't he going to give her the empty earthen jar in his hand?
Xu Qing Shan was really reluctant to let go of the earthen jar.
"My cousin uncle said that my family had a donkey. Although transportation doesn't make as much money as the mine, it is easier and has more freedom." Reaching here, he was afraid that Jiang Yun Zhu might misunderstand and hurriedly added, "Actually, I'm not afraid of hard work. I want to go to the mines."
He wanted to make some money quickly and build his own house. And then...he didn't dare to look at Jiang Yun Zhu.
Jiang Yun Zhu was wondering why there was no news after he said that he would go to the mine with her father. So it was like this.
"Village Head is thinking for your best. I think he's right." Jiang Yun Zhu immediately affirmed. It was a pity that her family was poor and can't afford a donkey. If not, she wouldn't let her father go to the mine.
"Do you really think transportation is good?" Xu Qing Shan's eyes sparkled.
Jiang Yun Zhu nodded.
"But transportation make less money." Xu Qing Shan anxiously responded.
Less? Jiang Yun Zhu felt that this business had a bright future. There were so many miners in Wuling County. Just choose a more populated road section that require transportation service and what worry was there about not having a source of customers?
With more people, the price can be lowered. Or implement a monthly subscription- one month costs 40 yuan a month to travel on a cart. It was 30 yuan to live on the mountain. Only fools would suffer that bitterness on the mountain!
A donkey cart can hold seven or eight people. With a monthly subscription, it meant three silver coins. If he did two runs a day, he could earn as much as going to the mine.
This was only in the morning and evening. He can also make money at other times.
Once business grows bigger, he can buy more donkey carts and increase more road sections. He can deliver goods part-time, and even... Alright, Jiang Yun Zhu was thinking too far. All in all, she truly felt this was a good business. How about she wait for later when she gets the capital and get Jiang Cheng to partner with Xu Qing Shan in this business.
She told Xu Qing Shan a little bit of what she thought of. Consider this as a way of repaying him and Father Xu on the journey of seeking refugee.
Xu Qing Shan was speechless. Can it be done this way? But she seemed to have a point.
Immediately, he was full of confidence, "Yun Zhu."
He felt that Jiang Yun Zhu was truly good; good-looking as well as smart.
He was about to say something when a man came over from the road side. Tall figure with long eyebrows and starry eyes. Gentle and handsome. The autumn sun lingered on his body, faint like ink smudged as well as a jade's beauty.
Jiang Yun Zhu proclaimed to had met many outstanding people. Still, she couldn't help but glance at the young man once more. She didn't expect such a person to exist in this mountain village.
Xu Qing Shan also saw the young man and immediately greeted him, "Younger Cousin Brother."
The young man showed a warm smile, like a dew between bamboo and breeze below the pine.
Xu Qing Shan introduced the two of them at once. Jiang Yun Zhu, who fled with him, and Gu Yan Zhou, his younger cousin brother.
"Yan Zhou is different from me. He is a scholar. He passed the examination and became Xiucai the year before last. Once next year's imperial examination year starts..." Speaking of Gu Yan Zhou, Xu Qing Shan felt proud.
Hearing what he said, Jiang Yun Zhu felt that the name Gu Yan Zhou was a bit familiar, as if she had heard it somewhere.
Chapter 9
"Miss Jiang?" Seeing Jiang Yun Zhu staring at him, Gu Yan Zhou reminded her.
Jiang Yun Zhu regained her senses. The chaotic thoughts in her head were immediately cut off. She couldn't remember where she had heard the name Gu Yan Zhou.
She greeted him and sized him up and down again.
Gu Yan Zhou found it novel that she looked at him so openly, so he let her look at him.
However, Jiang Yun Zhu withdrew her gaze and mentioned her departure. She was still in a hurry to go home and prepare for business.
After two days of busy work, it was finally ready.
Just after dawn on the third day, the market at the foot of the mountain became lively.
At this time, the soldiers stationed in the mine were changing guards. The soldiers who finished their post were already so hungry that their chests were stuck to their backs. The army had breakfast prepared for the soldiers: a large pot of pancakes and a pot of pitiful thin soup with few vegetable leaves. Some soldiers ate it, while some soldiers wanted to improve their diet. So they came to the foot of the mountain.
At this time, some miners who had come early also arrived at the foot of the mountain. The place was bustling with people.
In the northwest corner of the market, one can smell an attractive fragrance from a long distance away.
That smell drew out all the gluttons in people.
Walking there, a small stall at the farthest corner of the market can be seen. There was a stove in front of the stall. Above the stove was a large earthenware pot. The earthenware pot was bubbling and the strong fragrance wafted from it.
Seeing someone coming, Jiang Yun Zhu uncovered the earthenware pot and stirred the meat in the earthenware pot with a spoon.
A large piece of meat can be seen. It was ruddy in color, trembling in the bright soup. With the turn of the girl's spoon, the thick soup covered the whole piece of meat. It can be seen that the firepower was enough.
In the morning of late autumn, stomachs were burning with hunger and bodies were covered with chills. Suddenly seeing this hot pot of meat, everyone couldn't help swallowing.
Someone asked Jiang Yun Zhu how the meat was sold.
"This meat is chopped and eaten in pancakes. Six wens each." Jiang Yun Zhu replied as she lifted the small quilt next to her, revealing half a basket of snow-white wheat-flavored pancakes.
Six wens! It was a bit expensive. One must know that these miners were only paid twenty wens a day for their hard work. The monthly salary of those soldiers was only five silver coins.
Jiang Yun Zhu knew this would be the case long ago. She was just using the smell of meat to attract people here.
At the right time, she opened the big wooden barrel next to her, revealing a barrel of steaming hot soup. Immediately, a strong aroma of mutton mixed with various aromas such as pepper rushed to people's face.
"This was Bazhen Soup, also known as Hulatang. It costs three wens a bowl. Buy a bowl of soup and get five Youmotou for free." She introduced in a light tone. This was what she decided after discussing with old Mister Chen. It was better to sell soup for three wens than two wens. Complimentary Youmotou made it even more attractive.
People always felt that they were benefiting when there were giveaways. But what they didn't know was that the price had already been included in the selling price.
Hulatang? They had never heard of it. Still, the soup was really fragrant. And the price wasn't expensive. Some people, who stood there and didn't want to leave, immediately bought a bowl of soup.
The wooden spoon scooped out a spoonful of soup from the wooden bucket. Seeing that the soup was actually thick and it was full of ingredients such as bean curd, vermicelli, and radish. Just this and the free Youmotou alone, the three wens were worth it.
After taking a sip of thick soup, the taste of pepper rushed straight to their head. They felt refreshed. Spicy, overbearingly spicy, but just right. Not only was it spicy, but the light sour taste was mixed with the aroma of mutton and many other flavors. It made people feel their saliva come out and feel comfortable from head to toe.
This was a bowl of soup, and not just a soup. There was something to chew in your mouth. There was something to eat.
Then soak the Youmotou in it. Completely feel sated.
While eating, some people praised the soup as delicious. After drinking a bowl of soup, the chills on their body disappeared. There was even faint sweat from the tip of their nose. It was so satisfying that one wished to have another.
In such an autumn and such a morning, it seemed that one should drink such a bowl of soup to give one strength.
A new day had begun!
Some people remarked it was good. Other people who were watching couldn't resist buying a bowl and tasted it. They mentally agree that it was good.
Some people also began to buy meat pancakes. Although the monthly salary of the soldiers here wasn't high, guarding such a treasured mine, oil content in the diet was bountiful. So the soldiers had money in their hands.
The main reason was that the smell of stewed meat was too fragrant...
Crispy white cake and served with glutinous and smooth minced meat. Then drizzle in a little bright soup. The aromas of various flavors were progressive in the mouth. People were unable to stop digging in. It was worth six wens! This taste seemed to be better than the county's Fumanju's taste.
The business at the stall suddenly became prosperous.
Mrs. Chen was in charge of serving the soup, Jiang Yun Zhu cut the meat to make meat pancakes. Jiang Lin and Jiang Yun Xue cleaned up the dishes. Since it wasn't time to go to work, Jiang Cheng would help wherever he was needed. The whole family was very busy.
The soup, pancakes, and Youmotou were all made at home. Just needed to serve it to the guest and it was done. The rest was to clean up the dishes. Jiang Yun Zhu had already planned out everything. Though everyone was busy, it wasn't chaotic. They didn't make any guests for a long time. No guest walked off either.
More than half an hour passed and the things were basically sold out. When the mine started to work, Jiang Cheng had already gone to the mine and the stall became deserted.
Everyone felt as if they fought a tense battle. They were nervous and excited at the same time. Now that they were idle, everyone looked at Jiang Yun Zhu. How was business today? Although they had a guess, they still wanted a confirmation from Jiang Yun Zhu.
Jiang Yun Zhu was in charge of collecting the money and already had a rough estimate. She first stretched out a finger to everyone and then stretched out a hand. It meant about 150 wens.
Mrs. Chen couldn't believe it at all. Earlier, Jiang Yun Zhu had already done calculations with old Mister Chen at home. These meals were made up of nearly half profit. They sold for 150 wens. Meaning they made 75 wen?
Seventy-five wens a day, then how much was a month? Two silver liang… Mrs. Chen could only feel her face flushed and her ears hot. She couldn't even breathe freely.
"Let's go back and continue selling at noon." She didn't feel tired at all. Her mind was full of this business and completely forgot that she didn't approve of Jiang Yun Zhu doing this business before.
Jiang Yun Zhu shook her head at once. The soup needed to be simmered for a long time to be delicious. The pancakes and Youmotou also needed time to make. They started preparing yesterday and got up before three o'clock this morning to have these things all set.
Sell it at noon? How can it be made on time? Besides, it wasn't suitable to sell these things at noon.
It was also too tiring. At the moment, everyone was supported by a burst of energy. After a while, when the energy depletes, they will be so sleepy that their eyelids will fight to close.
It was only a little past seven o'clock and the market was close to Changshi Village. If they pack up their things and go back, they can still get some sleep. Jiang Yun Zhu pondered.
Hearing what she said, Mrs. Chen could only unwillingly give up.
The family packed up their things and happily returned home.
At the gate of Jiang's house, Jiang Wu stood there. He peered around the road from time to time. When he saw a few familiar figures, he immediately shouted inside, "Maternal Grandfather, Mother and the others are back."
With short legs, he rushed towards Mrs. Chen like a galloping horse.
Full of joy, Mrs. Chen hugged him.
When they got to the door, old Mister Chen was already standing there waiting.
"How was it?" he asked.
"It was okay." Jiang Yun Zhu smilingly replied.
While Mrs. Chen glanced at her. What okay? The business was obviously great. Her daughter was more calm than she was now.
Thinking of this, she grinned.
Once the family entered the room, Jiang Yun Zhu poured the pot of money onto the table and spilled a large amount of copper coins. The sound was indescribably crisp and pleasant.
Mrs. Chen seemed to have turned into a money grubber and immediately sat at the table and counted one by one.
One hundred and sixty-three wen. Ten or so more than Jiang Yun Zhu's estimation. Excluding the cost, they made a net profit of 80 wen. This was four times Jiang Cheng's salary.
Mrs. Chen's eyes widened with joy.
Jiang Yun Zhu had passed the initial excitement. She truly felt that it was okay. On this day, their family, including old Mister Chen, had all helped out. A total of six people busied away and they only earned 80 Wen. Was that much?
That was hard-earned money.
It was really hard work. They went to bed so late last night and got up before three o'clock this morning. Their black and white days flipped around.
She was thinking, after saving enough capital, they should stop doing this business. If not, everyone's health wouldn't be able to take it.
However, Mrs. Chen felt that Jiang Yun Zhu didn't know to be content. People like them usually don't have any method to make money. Now that they can earn so much, there wasn't anything to be dissatisfied with.
She told Jiang Yun Zhu to go to bed quickly. She'll prepare the things for tomorrow. As long as money could be made, she wasn't afraid of hard work or being tired.
Jiang Yun Zhu urged her to take a rest too. Money to be earned was endless, but health was the most important thing. Otherwise, when she gets sick, the money will not be enough to spend.
Only then did Mrs. Chen go back to her room to rest.
Lying on the bed, Mrs. Chen couldn't fall asleep. According to today's situation, they will have nearly three liang of income every month including Jiang Cheng's salary.
She thought of Jiang Yun Xiu. If they made so much money earlier, she would never have sold her.
She wondered how she was doing now and whether she would see her again in the future.
At this time, Jiang Yun Xiu finally arrived at the Marquis Anping Manor, the place she had hoped for.
The heads of people killed by Shen Feng Ming in Changfeng were rolling. Everyone in Changfeng sensed danger, not to mention those officials and wealthy businessmen. Even the brothels were afraid to show off. Who would buy girls?
Mrs. Zhang didn't dare to sell her anymore, for fear that all those Qilin Guards would find her displeasing and kacha her too.
After discussing with acquaintances, she took a few girls to Lu Prefecture.
Just in time for Marquis Anping Manor's old Madam's birthday. There was a shortage of people in the manor. So she immediately brought Jiang Yun Xiu and a few other girls to the door.
In the end, Jiang Yun Xiu was settled at a price of twelve silver liang.
Today was the first day she entered Marquis Anping's Manor. Although she entered through the corner door at the back, she looked around at the pavilions, towers, and magnificent structures. It was more beautiful than she had imagined in her dreams.
Thinking that Jiang Yun Zhu lived in this kind of place in her dream and she lived in a dilapidated house full of wind and rain, she found it extremely fortunate. Fortunately, she snatched that short stick.
This time It was finally her turn to be rich!
Chapter 10
Jiang Yun Xiu and a dozen or so girls were taken to a wing room in the backyard.
These girls ranged from thirteen to sixteen years old, and they all looked upright, with delicate features.
Jiang Yun Xiu looked around and noticed that except for a girl with a red mole at the corner of her eye, she was the best among the group of people. She was delighted. At this time, there were footsteps outside. A woman came in with a little maid.
That woman was worthy of being from the Marquis of Anping. She was actually wearing silk and satin. Both her wrists and head were shining with golden light.
The girls were both envious and apprehensive.
Mrs. Zheng examined these girls one by one. Two of them weren't bad, while the rest were just mediocre.
She began to assign people, "You two, go to the tea room. You three, go to the laundry room. You three, follow Superviser Li and go to sweep the courtyard."
Finally, she came to the remaining few people. Among them were Jiang Yun Xiu and the girl with the red mole at the corner of her eye.
She paused for a moment. Her mind turned and she pointed at Jiang Yun Xiu, that girl and another girl with a round face, and said, "You three go to the kitchen."
Then she went to assign the rest of the girls.
Jiang Yun Xiu froze on the spot. Her to the kitchen? She must have heard it wrong!
She stared at Mrs. Zheng. Her mind was blank. She thought she would serve Lin Ting An.
Seven years later in the dream, Jiang Yun Xiu and Jiang Yun Zhu met again. They only talked a few times. When Jiang Yun Zhu talked about her past, she either brought it up briefly or reported good news but not bad news. Thta's why Jiang Yun Xiu didn't know exactly how Jiang Yun Zhu became the young madam of the Marquis Manor. Just like Jiang Yun Zhu didn't know Xu Qing Shan's past.
There were a total of fourteen girls and they were basically assigned to various places as rough chores maids. Some of these girls were quick-witted and inquired about the situation in the Manor. Once they heard that this was the result, they were very disappointed.
Who was Mrs. Zheng? Her eyelashes were all empty. Seeing this, she snorted coldly. These girls really thought they were flying up the branches! If it weren't for the lack of manpower in the Manor, how they with unknown backgrounds enter the Marquis's Manor?
Letting them do some rough work in the Manor had already benefitted them.
Jiang Yun Xiu didn't finally believe that she was assigned to work in the kitchen until she came to the kitchen.
Along with her was the round face girl and the girl with the red mole at the corner of her eye, whose name was Tian Ying.
The kitchen in Marquis Anping's Manor was very large. Right now, it wasn't meal time. So it was still relatively quiet here.
When Mrs. Zhou, who was in charge of the kitchen, saw the three of them, especially Jiang Yun Xiu and Tian Ying, her face immediately darkened.
Mrs. Zhou's husband was the chef in the Manor. His name was Gao Shun. He was good at cooking Huaiyang cuisine.
But this Gao Shun had a bad habit. He especially liked to hook up with women. Relying on Marquis of Anping's favor, he had a relationship with a few maids and married women in the Manor.
For this reason, Mrs. Zhou fought with him a lot. But there was nothing she could do.
A few days ago, she told the supervisor of the manor that there was a shortage of people in the kitchen and requested him to send a few honest and capable people over. The result was sending these three?
Looking at Jiang Yun Xiu and her expression of reluctance on her face, one can tell she was a vixen who wants to climb into the master's bed. Then at Tian Ying, her brows and eyes were full of flirtiness. She must be a little wh*re who can't live without a man. The reamining one was still pleasing to the eye.
It must be that Zheng Jin Huan, she want to create trouble for her. She deliberately assigned these three people to her to see her jokes.
Mrs. Zhou gritted her teeth secretly, wishing to tear Mrs. Zheng's face off.
"You three, what are you standing there for? Still not going to work!" She vented all her anger on the three of them and fumingly scolded.
Jiang Yun Xiu trio felt suffocated. Do what work?
"Go wash the dishes. The dishes in the backyard are piled up like a mountain." Mrs. Zhou said.
Jiang Yun Xiu trio went to the backyard.
The kitchen had been short of staff these days. As expected, those dirty dishes and bowls piled up like a hill.
The three of them fetched water to wash the dishes.
It was deep into autumn. The well water was very cold, while the plates and bowls were very greasy. After a while, Jiang Yun Xiu's hands were soaked red and white. Resentment brewed in her heart. She came to the Marquis Manor to enjoy luxury, not to wash dishes.
"Little unrestrained hoof, still not scrubbing? What are you being in a daze for? If you can't finish scrubbing, no one will get to eat tonight." Mrs. Zhou sat at the side to watch the three of them.
Jiang Yun Xiu remembered her .Once she became the young madam of the Marquis Manor, she'll get her to wash countless dishes. No, let her lick them clean one by one.
Thinking about the various ways to torment Mrs. Zhou in the future, she seemed to feel much better and could persevere again.
After half an hour, a man came in from the corner door in the backyard. The man was tall and fat, but his eyes weren't big.
He seemed to have just become drunk. His whole body reeked of alcohol.
As soon as he entered the door, he saw Jiang Yun Xiu trio and his eyes lit up immediately.
Fifteen years old Jiang Yun Xiu had almond eyes and peach cheeks. A girl blooming like a flower at its peak. Tian Ying, who was one year older than her, had swaying eyebrows and eyes. The red mole under her eyes made her even more charming.
"You still know how to come back. Hurry up and prepare things for the evening. Let's see how you end up when Lord Marquis's dinner get delayed,!" Mrs. Zhou fiercely directed to the man.
The man was Gao Shun.
Gao Shun impatiently responded, "You don't need to talk too much. Just mind your own business."
After finishing speaking, he glanced at Jiang Yun Xiu and Tian Ying again before going into the kitchen.
His glance made Jiang Yun Xiu feel extremely disgusted.
While Tian Ying gave Gao Shun a seemingly angry stare. With that delicate appearance, it seemed that she wanted to refuse while welcoming.
After being glared at by her, Gao Shun felt that his bones were ten jins lighter. If Mrs. Zhou wasn't present, he would have gone over to strike up a conversation at once.
Mrs. Zhou had her back to Jiang Yun Xiu and the others when talking to Gao Shun. So she didn't see Tian Ying's eyes. If not, she would have stir a fuss immediately.
After a while, the kitchen started to get busy. She gave the trio a round yelling before entering the ktichen to work away.
Finally able to catch her breath, Jiang Yun Xiu was plotting how to meet Lin Ting An.
Next to her, Tian Ying's eyes flickered. It was unknown what she was thinking.
Mrs. Chen knewing it was pointless to think Jiang Yun Xiu and fell asleep.
In the evening, when Jiang Cheng came back. He was overjoyed when he heard the news.
"Father, how about selling food with us instead of going to the mine." Jiang Yun Zhu took the opportunity to tell him that she didn't think going to the mine was a good job. Not to mention occupational health hazard such as dust disease and skin disease. Ancient mines didn't have any safety protection measures. It was easy for danger to occur.
Jiang Cheng shook his head. He can help the family now. Wouldn't it be better to earn two shares?
The sooner they make money, the sooner they build a house of their own. Then he will feel at ease.
Like Mrs. Chen, Jiang Cheng liked money very much now. That's right, if they were rich, they wouldn't have to sell their daughter. If they were rich, they wouldn't need to wander in this foreign land at all. And they wouldn't need Jiang Yun Zhu work every day from the middle of the night.
Seeing that Jiang Yun Zhu couldn't be persuaded, she could only leave it like this for now. Wait a little longer. Wait until the family earns more money. Then Jiang Cheng should be willing to part with that salary.
The next day, they went to set their stall early. Today's business was better than yesterday. Mrs. Chen was so happy she grinned from ear to ear.
After the hour passed, the market became deserted. They began to pack their things and prepare to go back.
Jiang Yun Zhu opened the big earthenware pot and saw a piece of meat the size of a palm inside. She wondered if she should serve meat for everyone at home for lunch to She was also quite anxious from being able to smell the stewed meat every day but not be able to eat it.
"What fragant meat!" A rough voice boomed in her ears.
When Jiang Yun Zhu looked up, she saw a big-headed guy who came up beside her at some point. The chin on that big head was full of beards.
It was him, that Deputy General Zhao. Jiang Yun Zhu remembered him.
"Is this meat for sale?" Deputy General Zhao's ox-eyes stared at the meat pot.
"For sale." Jiang Yun Zhu subconsciously replied.
With two hearty laughs, Vice General Zhao randomly picked a stool and sat at a table behind.
"It's certainly fragant. Boss, whatever you have, just bring it up." One of the two soldiers following behind him spoke.
Mrs. Chen looked at these three people with anxiety. Who were they? Also, the person in charge looked so fierce!
Jiang Yun Zhu quickly fished out the meat, chopped it into pieces, stuffed it into the white pancake, poured thick soup, and brought it to their table.
At this time, Mrs. Chen came to her senses. She poured out the last two bowls of Hulatang and carefully brought it to Deputy General Zhao. She said timidly, "There are only two bowls of soup left." Afraid it won't be enough for three people.
"I'm going to buy a bowl of mutton soup. That's my favorite." One of the soldiers stood up and went to the opposite stall to bring back a bowl of mutton soup.
Deputy General Zhao ignored him, picked up the meat pancake, and bit into it.
With his mouthful, less than half of a meat pie disappeared.
The soup was thick and smooth. The minced meat was soft and mellow. It was a perfect match with this white pancake.
After two more bites, the meat pancake went straight into his stomach.
Picking up another one, he took a few bites and demolished it again.
After eating three in a row, he remembered that there was still a soup. He gulped down a big mouthful of soup.
Suddenly, his eyes lit up. This soup was an appetite-opening!
A mouthful of soup, a mouthful of meat pie. He ate like running water.
Five of the six meat pancke entered into his mouth. That bowl of soup was drunk until empty.
Next to him, the soldier carrying the mutton soup suddenly felt that the soup in his hand wasn't fragrant.