101 For the Week after Surgery, you are Bed Bound
On the bed, Xie Yunjin remembered how Lu Jiao had just gone out to see a patient. He casually asked, "What happened with Widow Li's daughter-in-law? Did you manage to help her?"
Lu Jiao nodded, "She made it through. If they waited any longer, she wouldn't have made it."
Xie Yunjin raised an eyebrow. This woman seemed to be a pretty good doctor. She must've been very capable before.
Xie Yunjin then nonchalantly asked, "You have a lot of medical knowledge?"
Lu Jiao became alert. Did this man suspect her identity?
She smiled, "It's a coincidence that Grandma Huang taught me just the right things to be able to save these people. My medical knowledge is just so-so."
Xie Yunjin's gaze subconsciously deepened as his lips curled up.
Under this dim light, it was obvious that his gape was vast like the ocean.
Lu Jiao felt like this man could see right through her.
Quickly, she adjusted herself. Hmmph, just how much could he possibly guess? There was no way he would think she was transmigrated.
She calmed down and beamed, "I'm just a woman. How capable can I be?"
Xie Yunjin raised an eyebrow. He knew for a fact that this woman was a professional liar so she must be lying. She definitely was an amazing doctor.
Thinking that, he suddenly asked, "How much do you know compared to Dr. Qi?"
Lu Jiao felt suffocated. She wondered if he was going to question just who really did the surgery.
Or maybe, he was purely curious.
With a collected face, Lu Jiao prepared to answer but Xie Yunjin beat her to it, "Do you know how to perform surgery?"
Lu Jiao put on a scared face, "What are you talking about? I am a woman! I don't dare to do surgery. That's horrifying."
Xie Yunjin thought about it. That was reasonable. Even if she knew a lot about medicine, women didn't really dare to do surgery. Most women could not handle how bloody surgeries were.
He thought it through and commented mellowly, "Even if you don't know surgery, your medical knowledge is amazing."
Lu Jiao sighed in relief. She didn't want to discuss this any further. After all, this man was highly observant and could see through her when her expression let slip of the truth.
Lu Jiao went outside with the empty bowl. Outside, Xie Erzhu arrived.
Once arrived, he shamefully looked over to Xie Yunjin, "Third brother, I am sorry. I wasn't able to accompany you to your surgery today."
Xie Erzhu sadly lowered his head. He wanted to go but his mother and father denied him and only brought his eldest brother, youngest brother, and youngest sister.
Of course, Xie Yunjin knew what had happened. With his gaze soft, he said to Xie Erzhu, "Second Brother, I know your intentions are good and I would never blame you."
Xie Erzhu looked up, "Third brother, you truly don't blame me?"
Xie Yunjin beamed, "I know you wanted to go and our mother and father stopped you."
Xie Erzhu nodded with a grim expression. The way his parents planned out today made him want to fight someone.
But his third brother didn't blame him. That made him feel better.
"Third brother, how are your legs? Are you going to be okay?"
Xie Yunjin knew that Xie Erzhu was worried, "After some time, I'll be able to get down and walk. Don't worry."
Xie Erzhu nodded happily, "That's great news! You'll be able to study again."
If his third brother succeeded, he'll be more respected as well.
Because of his third brother, his entire family was highly respected and nobody dared to take advantage of him.
The more Xie Erzhu thought about it, the happier he got. He caringly asked, "Third brother, do you want to pee? Or poo? I can help you."
Lu Jiao heard this and turned to Xie Yunjin, "For the week after surgery, you are bed bound. You must pee and poop while in bed."
She then walked over and pulled the portable bamboo potty she made from under the bed.
Finally, this thing could be put to good use.
"Use this."
Xie Yunjin stared at the strange object in Lu Jiao's hand and his face dropped. His lips pressed into a line as he physically rejected the idea.
After some time, he finally managed to say, "I can get down."
Lu Jiao snapped, "You don't want your legs anymore? If you don't, then go ahead and get off that bed. If you want your legs, you are not allowed to get down for the next week."
Xie Yunjin's face was now black. In the end, he accepted his fate, "What about after this week?"
"After a week, you can come down and sit on the toilet. You have to make sure you aren't applying pressure with your legs."
Xie Yunjin suddenly looked up at Lu Jiao, "You seem to be very familiar with all this."
Lu Jiao's heart skipped a beat and explained, "Dr. Qi was very detail-oriented. He taught me all the stuff to know. I remember all of it."
Xie Erzhu added, "This doctor sure is a good doctor. Doctors from the Capital City sure are better than doctors from our town."
Xie Yunjin didn't interrogate Lu Jiao further.
Lu Jiao gave the portable potty to Xie Erzhu and warned him, "No matter what, do not let him out of the bed. The surgery only happened this morning and his bones haven't grown together. Getting out of bed may cause his bones to dislocate for a second time. If that happens, he won't be able to walk again."
Xie Erzhu was frightened and promised, "Don't worry, I won't let his legs touch the ground."
Xie Yunjin heard Lu Jiao and didn't dare to ask to try walking again.
Lu Jiao walked away.
Inside the room, Xie Erzhu started helping out Xie Yunjin. Since they were brothers, Xie Yunjin was very relaxed. After all, he was raised by his Second Brother.
After Lady Tian and Lu Jiao did the dishes, they took the four little ones outside for a bath.
Lady Tian said to Lu Jiao, "Jiaojiao, now that Yunjin has surgery, you can take more time resting. There's not much here for me to do anymore, I will go home tomorrow with your brother."
Lu Jiao wasn't surprised to hear that.
"Mom, you can go tomorrow after lunch."
Lady Tian's been staying here for a while now and now knew that Lu Jiao didn't lack money. She didn't persist in going back early tomorrow.
"Okay, I'll do as you say."
Lu Jiao planned on going hunting in the morning tomorrow. She'll pack some baked goods that Xie Yunjin's classmates brought for her mom, and give her some fruits from her space. There were also those greens she grew that she could pack.
All those combined made a pretty good gift. It should be enough.
102 My Sister is Someone Naturally Attracted to Good Fortune
As Lu Jiao planned tomorrow, the four little ones interrupted her.
The First Born stared at Lady Tian, "Grandma, when will you visit again?"
Over the past few days, the children had established a good relationship with Lady Tian. Hearing that she'll be going back with their young uncle, the children felt a little sad.
Lady Tian also felt sad now that the children missed her. These four kids were not at all the same as her other grandson, Huzi. Huzi rolled around constantly and made a fuss every time he didn't get what he wanted.
These four little ones never did that. Though they were younger, they were very reasonable and listened to logic.
After these few days here, Lady Tian had made up her mind to not spoil Huzi too much in the future. If she kept this up, he would grow up to be a troublemaker.
"First Born, are you going to miss me? You can come to hang out next time."
The First Born looked up to Lu Jiao, who nodded, "Of course. I'll bring you to grandma's house next time."
The four little ones smiled happily. They've never visited.
The Third Born asked excitedly, "Mommy, then when will we go to grandma's?"
Lu Jiao chuckled, "Once your daddy's legs heal."
The Third Born suggested, "Then, we can bring daddy."
Lu Jiao was about to speak when Lady Tian happily agreed, "That would be great. The whole family should go. I'll kill a chicken and make us dinner when you visit."
The four little ones nodded aggressively, "Okay!"
Lu Jiao's eyes darkened. She may only have the chance to visit with the children alone. She'll never be able to bring Xie Yunjin there.
Once Xie Yunjin's legs heal, they will separate.
Lu Jiao didn't tell Lady Tian this.
The next day, when the Sun started to shine, Lu Jiao got out of bed quietly. Lady Tian and the Fourth Born were still asleep. She didn't want to disturb anyone.
Inside the yard, Lu Gui was already awake. He had gotten water for the family and was now dusting the yard. After he saw Lu Jiao, he came over and asked, "Sister, why aren't you sleeping for longer?"
Lu Jiao stared at Lu Gui. This cheap brother of hers was rather hard-working and very honest. These days, he never took a break and did all the work around the house.
After these past few days, Lu Jiao didn't find him as annoying as before.
"Yesterday, mother said she wants to go back this afternoon. I'm going to go hunting in the mountains and pack you some meat to bring back."
Lu Gui was thrilled, "You're going hunting?! Can I come with?"
Lu Jiao didn't decline, "Okay, let's go."
The siblings took baskets and climbed up the mountain. On the way there, Lu Gui carefully looked over to Lu Jiao and said softly, "Sister, are you still mad at me?"
Since Lu Jiao didn't answer, he straight up grabbed her arm and swung it around, "Sister, don't be mad at me. I was wrong before."
His sister was very capable these days. He respected her and was proud to have a sister like her. He couldn't bear the idea that she was angry at him.
Lu Jiao couldn't take this and pushed him, "Enough, let me go."
Lu Gui refused, "Sister, forgive me."
Lu Jiao didn't want this to continue so she nodded, "I forgive you. But you need to do something for me – you need to be nicer to mother. If I ever find out that you don't treat her well, I will teach you a lesson."
Lu Gui straightened up his back and vowed, "Sister, do not worry. I promise you that I won't make mom angry. I will also tell the first and second brothers not to give mom a hard time."
Lu Gui silently mumbled, mom sure bore a good daughter.
It appeared that having daughters was better than having sons. In the future, he needed to bear a daughter that was like his sister.
Lu Gui smiled so hugely that his eyes disappeared into his skin. Lu Jiao found this strange.
"Remember what you said today."
"Yes, yes, I remember."
The siblings got up the mountain as they chatted. Lu Jiao found the trap she set before and plucked out the sharp bamboo she planted there before. She found a fresh batch of bamboo, sharpened them, and stuck them into the trap. She then laid some grass on top, took out her last pieces of deer meat, soaked them in spiritual stream water, and tossed it inside.
Lu Gui was in shock, "That's it? You just wait now?"
He's always thought that hunting using traps was a complicated matter. He's seen other villagers set traps, it was way more complicated than what his sister had done. Was she sure she could catch something like this?
Lu Gui was in denial while Lu Jiao calmly said, "This is how I caught all the meat you've eaten this week."
Lu Gui eyed the trap and then eyed his sister. He was now sure of one thing.
Only his sister could set a trap like this. Nobody else could.
As for why, it was because of who she was as an individual. She was someone naturally attracted to good fortune. She could so easily do something and get something in return.
Lu Jiao ignored him and went to harvest herbs. She decided to start teaching the villagers in a few days and wanted to get some samples she could use to show everyone.
Lu Gui followed closely, "Sister, can you teach me?"
He knew that his sister was going to teach the villagers. He was willing to learn so he could harvest once he was back home.
"Sure."
Lu Jiao didn't decline and started to look for herbs with Lu Gui, "Look, this is artemisia capillaris. This is a species of flowering plant in the wormwood genus. They normally curl into clumps. They can be grayish-white or grayish-green. It's able to reduce internal humidity and soothe the liver and the gallbladder. However, this is considered a 'cold' medicine and shouldn't be used for those with a weak stomach.
This is a dandelion. Dandelion leaves look like saw edges. Its stems are purplish red. Dandelions help with detoxification. It's a diuretic, a laxative, it's got anti-jaundice and choleretic properties. It's also considered to be 'cold' in nature so those with a weak stomach need to be careful.
This is…"
Lu Jiao explained as she harvested herbs. Sadly, after some time, Lu Gui felt his head expand into two. He looked over at Lu Jiao, "Sister, I don't want to learn anymore. My head hurts."
Lu Jiao laughed and found him having an internal struggle.
"Okay, then don't bother. Go find me some chopped wood."
Lu Gui happily went as asked.
Honestly, he thought herbs would be easy to learn but that was not true. It was so hard to remember everything.
Was it even possible that those villagers would be able to learn about those herbs?
Lu Jiao found a bunch of herbs. On the way back, she found Lu Gui with a basket full of wood. The siblings headed to the trap together.
Since Lu Gui was here, Lu Jiao didn't put the herbs into her space in case Lu Gui found it suspicious.
Once they arrived at the trap, they heard noises from inside.
Lu Gui excitedly ran over while Lu Jiao followed. They got to the edge of the trap and peered inside.
103 Mommy is Good Now
Lu Jiao was startled. Not only was there a wild chicken, and a wild rabbit, but there was also a snake as thick as a child's arm.
Though the snake was dead, Lu Jiao was still a little shaken up. It wasn't that she was afraid of snakes, it was that boneless animals like this gave her a certain amount of anxiety.
Lu Jiao didn't even want the other animals anymore. She said to Lu Gui, "Go get the wild chicken and the wild rabbit. I don't want the snake."
The chicken and the rabbit were still alive, Lady Tian could keep it that way for a few days.
Lu Gui disagreed, "This snake isn't poisonous. It's over a meter long. Once we skin it, we'll have a lot of meat."
Lu Gui's eyes lit up. He was excited despite eating lots of meat at Lu Jiao's place these past few days.
If this was before his visit, he might've taken a bite of snake meat right there and then.
Lu Jiao peeked at the snake to confirm that the snake was truly non-toxic.
She warned Lu Gui, "Then take it and chop it into pieces."
That way, she won't feel grossed out when she sees it.
Lu Gui went to fetch the animals. Scared that Lu Jiao was uncomfortable with the dead snake, he took it aside to skin it. Then, he used his ax and chopped it into segments.
After this was all done, the siblings walked home with their baskets full.
The four little ones were up at this point. The moment Lu Jiao returned, the First Born ran over and grabbed her hand, "Mommy, go look at daddy, his legs hurt."
Lu Jiao asked the First Born to let go of her hand. She put down her basket and headed to the east bedroom with the First Born.
Inside, Xie Yunjin looked rather pale. Yesterday, Lu Jiao fed him a painkiller, but the effect subsided in the middle of the night.
In the middle of the night, Xie Yunjin felt pain shoot up his legs. Afraid to disturb the kids, he endured.
This morning, the observant First Born noticed it. He was insanely anxious and waited for Lu Jiao to come back."
"How is it? Are you in a lot of pain?"
Xie Yunjin was scared that Lu Jiao would push for painkillers and shook his head, "The pain isn't bad."
The First Born refuted, "He's in a lot of pain. I saw."
Lu Jiao stared at Xie Yunjin and asked calmly, "Is the pain bad?"
Due to the pain, Xie Yunjin's face formed a layer of sweat. However, he continued to admit it.
"It hurts a little. I can endure it."
Lu Jiao knew very well that he was hurting and he refused to admit it because he didn't want more painkillers.
Honestly, taking painkillers was fine. It was just that this guy was so worried about everything.
Lu Jiao didn't force him to take anything. She did know, however, that Xie Yunjin was likely more sensitive to pain.
"Okay, if you can endure it, you don't need to take painkillers. I'll need to give you some anti-inflammatory medicine though."
Lu Jiao wanted to give Xie Yunjin IV but didn't want him to know.
So she planned to give him some anti-anxiety medicine and wait until he fell asleep. Then, she can hang some IV fluid for him.
Xie Yunjin was on guard as he gaped at her, "Are you going to feed me a painkiller instead? I'm not taking it."
Lu Jiao was speechless and responded unpleasantly, "You think having surgery is the end of it? Your legs were cut open and sewed back together. If you don't take the right medicine, you'll be in trouble once you get an infection."
Xie Yunjin thought that made sense but he still cautiously looked at Lu Jiao, "I will take anti-inflammatory meds. I will not take any painkillers."
"Okay, okay, I got it."
Just then, the First Born turned to Lu Jiao, "Mommy, daddy's legs hurt."
He was only a four-year-old boy but his worried mannerism was more like a father's.
"Your dad isn't in as much pain as yesterday. He'll feel better after the anti-inflammatory medicine. It hurts right now because he just had the surgery. He'll feel better with every new day."
The First Born's heart ached so much that his little brows were almost vertical. He said to Lu Jiao, "Mommy, give daddy candy."
Lu Jiao didn't decline. She took a piece of candy and gave it to the First Born, "Give it to your daddy, I'll go get him some water."
The First Born took it as asked and took off the wrapping paper so he could feed Xie Yunjin.
Once Lu Jiao left, Xie Yunjin finally realized something. The First Born had referred to Lu Jiao as "mom".
He was stunned.
He thought that little guy would need a long time before he admitted Lu Jiao as his mother. After all, he was much more sensitive and careful than the other three.
Who knew he would be calling Lu Jiao "mom" already?
The First Born didn't know what Xie Yunjin was thinking as he unwrapped the candy.
Xie Yunjin knew that if he refused, the little guy would be worried. He took the candy.
The First Born smiled. The other three, who sat on the bed, saw the First Born smile and saw their daddy eat candy, and so they too, started to giggle.
Xie Yunjin whispered to the First Born, "You called her 'mom'?"
The First Born's face turned red as he felt embarrassed by the question. After playing with his hands for a long time, he finally answered in a low voice, "I think mommy is good now."
Xie Yunjin patted the First Born's head. It appeared that the First Born's heart had opened and accepted Lu Jiao. That was great.
"You're doing the right thing. Your mommy has changed and improved. From now on, she's going to be a good mom. Forget everything that's happened in the past. After all, everyone makes mistakes."
The First Born remembered the time he tried to poison his mom. Ah, yes, he did that once. His mom didn't even hold that against him. From now on, he will stop referring to her as an evil woman.
The First Born raised his head and beamed.
Xie Yunjin's heart filled with warmth. The pain around his legs somehow soothed.
The quadruplets all crowded around him.
"Daddy, are your legs feeling better?"
"The candy made the pain go away?"
"Yeah."
Xie Yunjin found them funny but humored them, "Yeah, I'm not hurting at all now."
The First Born immediately offered, "When it hurts, ask mommy to give you candy."
"Okay."
The four little ones were finally happy again.
Lu Jiao fetched some water and came in with the medicine. She scanned the room and found the worried four little ones all cheered up.
"Here, have some medicine."
Lu Jiao gave the anti-anxiety pill to Xie Yunjin, who carefully studied it to see whether or not it was different from yesterday's pill.
This pill was different from all the pills he's seen. It was white, round, and flat. Xie Yunjin had never seen medicine like this before. He couldn't help but comment, "I've never seen anything like this."
104 Have a Child who's like my Sister
Lu Jiao raised an eyebrow and lightly smiled, "This medicine was created by Dr. Qi. He likely made it himself so it looks a little different."
This pill was a western medicine pill – it looked different from traditional Chinese medicine.
Xie Yunjin didn't suspect anything and took the pill.
After that, Lu Jiao got some porridge for him.
"After surgery, you need to rest and relax. I offered to teach the villagers herb harvesting before and I will go find the Village Leader this afternoon to tell him that he can start sending people tomorrow. The earlier everyone learns about herbs, the sooner they can start earning money."
Xie Yunjin agreed instantly, "Okay."
He then raised an eyebrow at Lu Jiao, "Throughout my injury, the villagers have shown me all sorts of kindness. I want to do something for them. Other than teaching them herbs, I want to start teaching the children how to read while I rest at home.
I don't ask that they learn how to write. I think even learning how to read would be a good starting point. Do you think it's doable?"
Lu Jiao was a little surprised. Was this guy discussing this matter with her? This should be his business and it didn't concern her.
Since he asked, she thought about it and then suggested, "That'd be good. After all, it's a good thing to do. I have a thought, do you want to hear it?
You just finished surgery so you shouldn't personally teach the children right away. However, you've taught the quadruplets the 'Three Character Classic'. I'm thinking the quadruplets can teach the village kids 'Three Character Classic' first.
Once you can move around, you can teach the children 'Thousand Characters". Of course, you can also teach the quadruplets first and then ask them to teach the others."
Lu Jiao suggested this because she wanted to both teach the villagers' children and also teach her own children. She wanted the boys to experience what it felt like to help others. She was almost certain that if she started educating the quadruplets, they wouldn't turn out to be villains.
Though she will be leaving this place in two to three months, she still wanted to do something for the quadruplets.
The thought of leaving made Lu Jiao a little sad.
Xie Yunjin liked Lu Jiao's suggestion. To be able to both help others and develop the quadruplets' skills was a great idea.
Outside, the four little ones who were eating heard their conversation.
The four little ones ran into the bedroom excitedly, "Mommy, you want us to teach?"
Lu Jiao nodded, "That's right. You learned the 'Three Thousand Classic' right? That means you can teach the other children."
The Second, Third, and Fourth Born nodded with enthusiasm. The First Born took some time to think about it first before he nodded.
"Okay, we can teach them."
Lu Jiao praised them with a smile, "Great. That way, you get to help other kids, which is a very good trait. Your dad and I are very happy for you – we are proud of you."
Xie Yunjin's eyes darkened. He knew that Lu Jiao was trying to urge the four little ones to do something good. That was a good thing.
He smiled at the four little ones.
The quadruplets straightened up their chests as they beamed happily.
Because he took medicine to calm him down, Xie Yunjin fell asleep very quickly. Lu Jiao wanted to give Xie Yunjin IV and didn't want the children to see, so she distracted them, "After you eat, feed Soot and Marble."
The children were happy to comply and ran outside right away. Lu Jiao checked on Xie Yunjin and found him quietly asleep.
Lu Jiao took out her IV needle and hypertonic saline.
Worried the children might come inside, Lu Jiao ate her porridge while standing at the bedroom door. When the children tried to go in, she stopped them, "Your daddy is asleep. If you go in, you'll disturb him. His legs hurt so he didn't sleep well last night. Now that he is finally asleep, let's not make noises."
The four little ones decided not to go inside.
For lunch, Lady Tian made chicken soup with the chicken the villagers gave them. After Xie Yunjin's surgery, the villagers gave everyone a lot of stuff, including two chickens and a basketful of eggs. Many families also gifted rice and vegetables.
For now, Lu Jiao's family didn't lack food.
In the afternoon, Lu Jiao gathered a bunch of things for Lady Tian. Other than the wild chicken, rabbit, and snake she caught this morning, she packed some fruits and baked goods. She topped everything off with vegetables and Lady Tian ended up with a full basket of food.
Lady Tian didn't know Lu Jiao snuck in fruits and baked goods. She thought there was only meat and vegetables and even that, she thought it was too much.
"You can just give me the rabbit. Save the chicken to make Yunjin soup."
Lu Jiao stopped her, "Mom, I can get more from the mountains. Ask Lu Gui how easy it was for me to hunt this morning."
Lu Gui nodded and looked up at Lady Tian, "Mom, you have no idea how easy it is for my sister to hunt. She sharpened some bamboo and stuck them in the trap. She left it there and that was it. The animals just fell into her trap like idiots.
I'm thinking that my sister is a very lucky person and that's why she attracts animals in her trap."
Lady Tian raised her eyebrow. She looked at the plowed land that grew vegetables and looked over to Lu Jiao.
Could it be that the vegetables grow well here not because the land was fortuitous, but because of her daughter?
Lu Jiao originally wanted to give Lady Tian some silver but she figured that there was no way Lady Tian would accept it. So she didn't end up trying.
The four little ones didn't want Lady Tian to leave. When Lu Jiao walked Lady Tian and Lu Gui out, the four little ones waved until they disappeared.
"Grandma, remember to come and visit."
"Uncle, come play with us again."
Lady Tian and Lu Gui got teary because of the children.
"Your sister's children make me so emotional. I don't even want to go back anymore."
Lu Gui shuddered and quickly comforted, "Mom, I will give you grandchildren as cute as them. Don't stay behind."
Their family was waiting for their mother to go home and make tofu.
Lady Tian was quick to mock, "You can't bear such cute children even in your next life."
She then picked up her pace as she walked home. Behind her, Lu Gui chased after her with his face dark, "Mom, why can't I bear cute babies like that??"
Lady Tian snickered, "Your sister's children are cute because your brother-in-law is good-looking and knows how to teach them. Look at you. Can you even compare to your brother-in-law?"
Lu Gui was mute. After some time, he bullishly mumbled, "I can't have children who are like the quadruplets, but I can have children who are like my sister. She's a part of the Lu family."
He then headed home boastfully.
105 I Don't Want to Live Anymore
Back at the Xie family yard, the four little ones were a little down due to Lady Tian and Lu Gui's departure.
Lu Jiao smiled, "It's okay. Grandma and uncle have things to need to do at home. I'll bring you next time I visit."
The First Born nodded in satisfaction, "Mommy, remember what you are promising."
The Second and Third Born asked in excitement, "Mommy, when are you going to visit?"
The Fourth Born blinked and then stared at Lu Jiao as if he was willing her to go visit right this second.
Lu Jiao was speechless, "Your daddy's legs aren't healed yet. You don't want your dad anymore?"
This silenced the four little ones and they stopped bringing up their grandma.
Lu Jiao and the children went to the east bedroom to let Xie Yunjin know about her plans, "I'm going to go to the Village Leader to tell him that I'll start teaching everyone about herbs tomorrow. I'll let him know about how you want to teach the children as well."
Xie Yunjin was supportive, "Yes, go ahead."
He was done with surgery and only needed to rest. It won't be long before he can walk normally again.
Without realizing it, much color and shine returned to his eyes. From a lackluster man stuck in bed, he was like a pearl that had just been wiped and cleaned and finally restored to its original beauty.
Lu Jiao couldn't help but stare a little. She silently mumbled over his good looks and his intelligence. It was no surprise that he will one day become the First Assistant.
Lu Jiao asked the four little ones, "I'm going to the Village Leader's house. Do you want to come?"
The four little ones' eyes lit up. However, the First Born shook his head, "I will stay home with daddy. Mommy, you can bring the others."
Lu Jiao's heart ached. Though this child was young, he always stayed home to take care of his father. He's also always rejected the nice things so his brothers could have them.
He was the same age as the other three. He was simply the first to come out.
On the bed, Xie Yunjin felt the same. He lowered his head to look at the First Born, "I'll be okay at home. You go ahead with your mother."
The First Born stubbornly shook his head, "I'm not going. I'll go play once daddy's legs heal."
Lu Jiao didn't persist and instead, patted his head and praised him, "Our First Born is such a good brother."
Lu Jiao's encouragement brightened the First Born's eyes and his lips curled up subconsciously. The words seemed to flee from his lips like music, "Mommy, you go ahead. I'll talk with daddy."
"Okay."
Lu Jiao headed to the Village Leader's place with the three children. When she walked past the Second Grandma's house, Lady Zhao went up to her.
"Yunjin's wife."
Lu Jiao stopped walking, "Is something wrong?"
Lady Zhao pulled onto Lu Jiao and said mysteriously, "I heard you saved Widow Li's daughter-in-law last night. I heard that she had died and you revived her."
Lu Jiao quickly explained, "That's an exaggeration. She wasn't dead."
Lady Zhao obviously didn't believe that. She firmly believed that Lu Jiao's medical knowledge was out of the world and no doctors in town were as good as her. She was the one who removed the fishbone from her Xiaobao's throat. She also easily helped Lin Erdan get rid of his fever. Also, before that, she helped get rid of Xu Duojin's snake toxins.
Every example proved how capable she was. Lady Zhao wasn't the only person who thought that – all the villagers thought that.
Lady Zhao grabbed Lu Jiao's hand and whispered, "Yunjin's wife, can you take a look at my daughter-in-law? Is there a reason why she's not able to get pregnant? She's been married into my family for two years now yet nothing's happening to her stomach."
Lu Jiao remembered that last time, Lin Chunyan went into town to seek medical advice, "I thought she went into town to get it checked?"
Lady Zhao felt that Lu Jiao was better and begged, "Yunjin's wife, can you please take a look? Do me a favor."
Lu Jiao didn't decline. As a doctor, it was her job to look after patients. She wasn't going to waste all that skill she put into studying.
"Okay, then I can take a look."
Excited, Lady Zhao pulled Lu Jiao into the room. As she walked, she called out to Lin Chunyan, "Chunyan, come, your third aunt is here."
Lin Chunyan walked out with her face pale. With a low voice, she greeted, "Third aunt."
Lu Jiao noticed that she was getting shyer and shyer. These days, she doesn't even lift her head up.
This was likely related to her fertility. This attitude, however, was very bad for her health. When trying to get pregnant, the woman should maintain a happy and light mood. Only that way, will the baby be healthy as well.
Lu Jiao indicated for Lin Chunyan to sit down. She then felt her pulse.
Lady Zhao went into the kitchen and brought out three boiled eggs. She gave them to the three children.
The three children didn't touch it and all glanced at Lu Jiao. Lu Jiao nodded, "Take them. Remember to thank your aunty."
The three children quickly thanked Lady Zhao.
Lu Jiao examined Lin Chunyan twice, including even eyes, brows, and tongue. Finally, she took Lin Chunyan's hand and asked her questions about her menstrual cycle.
Inside the room, Lady Zhao and Lin Chunyan were nervous. The two of them stared at Lu Jiao, afraid of bad news.
Lu Jiao glanced over them and said in a calm voice, "She has multiple symptoms, including malnutrition, which causes low iron. The low iron causes her kidneys to be weak, which prematurely ages her uterus. With her uterus weak, her eggs don't mature and attach. This is why she hasn't been able to get pregnant."
Lu Jiao said a lot but the other two women didn't understand any of it. Their faces changed colors as they interpreted Lu Jiao's words as Lin Chunyan will not be able to bear children.
Lin Chunyan's vision went dark and she almost passed out.
Unable to contain herself, she started to cry, "I can't have children, can I? I don't want to live anymore!"
She then started running outside to throw herself down the river.
Lu Jiao made a face, "I didn't say it wasn't curable. Why are you crying?"
Lin Chunyan's crying stopped abruptly. She snapped her head back, "I can have kids?"
"Once you condition your body, of course, you can bear children. I'm going to write you a prescription. You can go into town and brew it every day. In addition, you need to eat more food that contains iron, such as dates, brown sugar, and eggs. Remember to eat white rice every day."
Lady Zhao's face dropped as she listened to Lu Jiao. These days, everyone's so poor they can't exactly afford food. Dates? Brown Sugar? Eggs? This was a rich man's disease. No family could afford this.
Lady Zhao unkindly eyed Lin Chunyan as she wondered if she should ask her son to leave this woman.
Scared off by the unkind glare, Lin Chunyan's tears rolled down her cheeks.
Lu Jiao knew right away what Lady Zhao was thinking. She said in a collected manner, "Aunty, it's hard to find a daughter-in-law like Chunyan. If you end up with a troublesome woman, you'll be the one with a constant headache. Though it may cost some money to cure this illness, you get a great daughter-in-law for the rest of your life. What a great deal."
106 A Famous Doctor
Lady Zhao received Lu Jiao's message loud and clear. She was right! What if her next daughter-in-law was a troublemaker?
Lin Chunyan had always complied with her requests and was keen on spending the rest of her life in this family peacefully. To have such a daughter-in-law was a blessing.
Finally, Lady Zhao dismissed her thought of kicking Lin Chunyan out of the family. She asked Lu Jiao, "Are you sure she can bear children once she's cured?"
"Yes."
This one word was the saving grace for Lin Chunyan. With much appreciation, she stared at Lu Jiao. If Lady Zhao wasn't around, she would've knelt for Lu Jiao.
"I'm going to write her a prescription. You need to brew the medicine for her daily. This medicine isn't too costly. Also, she needs to eat better."
"Okay, okay, thank you, Yunjin's wife."
Lady Zhao was over the moon to hear that the medicine was cheap.
The reality was that Lu Jiao could've given her a more expensive prescription that would be more effective. She was afraid, however, that Lady Zhao would give Lin Chunyan a hard time if the medicine was too expensive.
Therefore, Lu Jiao decided to go with medicine that was more of average quality. She needed to find a way to feed Lin Chunyan some spiritual stream water so she could heal faster.
After she was done, she got up to leave with the four little ones.
Before she could leave, the Second Grandma came over with her youngest daughter-in-law, Changmei.
"Jiaojiao, can you take a look at Changmei next?"
The Second Grandma felt bad for asking but Lu Jiao agreed right away.
"Sure."
It made no difference to Lu Jiao at this point, especially since the Second Grandma asked.
Lu Jiao went back to sit in the living room and asked Changmei to rest her arm on the table.
Changmei's face was extremely pale and she was extremely skinny. She looked as if a gust of wind could blow her away.
It was obvious that she was sick – she almost looked like a terminally ill patient.
While Lu Jiao diagnosed her pulse, the Second Grandma went to her room to find some white sugar, so she could give the three children some sugar water.
"Good boys, have some water."
The three little ones glanced Lu Jiao, who indicated to them that they could accept the water.
The children grinned ear to ear and drank the water while they thanked the Second Grandma.
"Thank you, Second Grandma."
The cuteness of those three made the Second Grandma's heart explode. She looked for her granddaughter-in-law and her daughter-in-law and sighed.
Her granddaughter-in-law couldn't have children while her daughter-in-law gave birth to three girls. She hasn't even gotten a boy yet and had already fallen ill. At this rate, she was going to lose her life before she had more children.
After diagnosing Changmei's pulse, Lu Jiao asked her some sensitive questions. In the end, she suspected that Changmei was suffering from a gynecological disease.
In this era, there were no female doctors. Women were far too embarrassed to tell male doctors about their symptoms. Most of the time, they don't get the right treatment and never get better.
As Lu Jiao pondered, she asked the Second Grandma, "Grandma, can you give me a private room?"
Everyone gawked at her, not knowing why she would need a room.
The Second Grandma stood up immediately, "you can use my room."
Lu Jiao nodded and said to Changmei, "Come with me. I'm going to do a physical examination."
She then said to her children, "I'm going to bring your aunty inside so I can examine her. You boys stay here and wait. I won't be long."
The three little ones nodded, "We know, mommy."
These cute boys made Lady Zhao greedy for grandchildren. Honestly, how did these boys come to be? They were born cute and respectful. They were nothing like her children. Her youngest son, for example, made it a mission to piss her off every day.
The more Lady Zhao looked at the three kids, the more she liked them. She pulled on their hands and wished they were her own.
In the next room, the Second Grandma and Changmei waited. Lu Jiao didn't ask the Second Grandma to leave. She asked Changmei to take off her clothes, so she could examine her.
Changmei's face turned white and she rejected.
The Second Grandma glared at her and then asked Lu Jiao, "Jiaojiao, why do you need her to take off her clothes?"
Lu Jiao explained, "I suspect she has vaginitis."
Knowing that they have no idea what that is, she extrapolated, "It means her lower body is infected with bacteria. Normally, she gets itchy and wants to scratch. There's also a smell to it. There are many different types of infection. I need to check it out to see which one she has."
The Second Grandma turned to Changmei, who was so embarrassed she wanted to bury her head under the ground.
At once, the Second Grandma knew that Lu Jiao was right. Her face dropped and she ordered, "Enough, take off your clothes and let Jiaojiao take a look. You need to treat your illness."
Changmei hesitantly asked, "Is this curable?"
Lu Jiao nodded, "Yes. It may take a while but it's curable."
At once, Changmei started to take off her pants. That area of hers was extremely itchy and it made her so uncomfortable. Plus, her man refused to touch her these days, saying that she stank.
All these factors put her in a really bad mood and her body got worse as a result.
Lu Jiao took out a vaginal dilator and examined Changmei. Afterwards, she concluded that she had fungal vaginitis.
"You have a yeast infection. This means you get very itchy down there with lots of discharge that may look like little pieces of tofu. You likely feel pain when you pee."
Lu Jiao wanted to say that she likely felt pain during intercourse, but she was too afraid to be honest in front of these two women. They might go into shock.
Lu Jiao took off her gloves and put away the vaginal dilator. She said to the Second Grandma, "Throw this out later."
The Second Grandma nodded, "Okay."
She then nervously looked to Lu Jiao, "Jiaojiao, is this disease really curable? She's had three daughters and hasn't gotten pregnant since. Is it related to the disease?"
Lu Jiao nodded, "It may affect it."
She then said to Changmei, "While you are symptomatic, you shouldn't have relations with your husband. Plus, once you are healed, you need to ask your man to be sanitary."
The Second Grandma and Changmei both looked stunned. Growing up, they never talked about this topic. What Lu Jiao was saying was difficult to understand.
Lu Jiao didn't say more in case it would scare them.
"I will write you a prescription and you can get medicine from Baohe Tang."
Though she had some medicine at home, it was best for her to get it from Baohe Tang.
"Okay."
Lu Jiao washed her hands and then took the three little ones to the Village Leader's home.
On the way there, many people blocked Lu Jiao's way and asked her to offer medical advice.
Lu Jiao was speechless. So it appeared that after she saved Xia Lian, the villagers were now convinced that she was a good doctor. Everyone who had some level of discomfort now wanted a consultation.
She didn't have the time to do a home visit for all these villagers.
107 Cousin from the Zhou Family
Lu Jiao told everyone to visit her at home if they wanted an examination.
Because of all this, it was late by the time Lu Jiao and her children arrived at the Village Leader's house.
When Xie Fugui and Lady Zhang saw her, they warmly welcomed her and offered them sugar water.
Xie Fugui asked Lu Jiao caringly, "Is there something we can do for you?"
Lu Jiao drank some water and said to Xie Fugui, "Before, we talked about teaching the villagers how to harvest herbs. Now that Yunjin's surgery is done, he's asked me to start teaching everyone tomorrow. I'm here to let you know."
Xie Fugui slapped his leg happily, "That is such great news!"
He was honestly worried that Lu Jiao would take back her offer. After all, she had no reason to share all that knowledge.
For her to come over now and make that offer again made him ecstatic. Herbs equaled money.
"Let me go to the Clan Leader's place to discuss."
Lu Jiao stopped him, "Village Leader, there's something else Yunjin wanted us to talk about."
Xie Yunjin stopped walking, "What is it?"
"Because Yunjin is injured, he needs to rest for a while. Over the next two to three months, he won't be able to go back to studying. He's thinking of using this time to teach the children how to read. Though it'll be hard to learn too much during this short period of time, it's good to learn. During this time, he can also assess which children are talented. Those interested can go into town to study."
Xie Yunjin's brows trembled from joy. This time, even Lady Zhao smiled with her teeth.
The Villager Leader had two grandsons, Datou and Maomao. One was seven while the other was five. They were both ready to start learning.
The Village Leader wanted to send Datou into town but he was afraid his grandson wasn't made to study and it would be a waste of money.
Since Yunjin was willing to teach, it was the perfect opportunity to find out if any of his grandsons were born to study.
Xie Yunjin was excited but also worried about Yunjin's legs, "Would that disturb his rest?"
Lu Jiao shook her head, "Yunjin is thinking of having our four children teach the other children for a bit. When his legs heal a little, he can take over."
The three children turned to look at Xie Fugui, "Daddy's taught how 'Three Character Classic'. We want to teach it to Datou and Maomao."
Xie Fugui gratefully patted the children's heads, "You are good kids, such good kids."
He then looked up to Lu Jiao, "Your family has done so much for us. You are truly a hero to the village."
Lu Jiao didn't think she deserved that praise. She really didn't think she'd done that much. Obviously, the Village Leader disagreed.
Lady Zhang nodded in agreement.
It was late. Lu Jiao talked to the Village Leader for a bit longer. She wanted the Village Leader to find a few copies of the Three Character Classic. They only had four copies at their place and they were bought for the quadruplets.
Four copies wouldn't be enough so the Village Leaders would need to search around in town. After all, there's been children who were sent into town before.
The Village Leader happily took that on.
Lu Jiao and the children bid their farewells.
After they left, the Village Leader went to the Clan Leader right away to talk about this. Both the herbs and the lessons were great news that needed further discussion.
Lu Jiao walked home with the children. On their way back, they were once again faced with much warmth from the villagers.
Because of this, the three little ones walked proudly and almost arrogantly. With their chest puffed out and heads held up high, they chit-chatted, "Mommy, you are so great."
"Yeah, daddy was smart back then, and now mommy is so smart too."
The Fourth Born grabbed Lu Jiao's hand and he gave Lu Jiao a thumbs up, "Mommy, you're the best!"
Lu Jiao felt that curing the sick was something she needed to do. However, when she heard all these compliments from the boys, it made her heart feel full.
They walked home. Before they entered their living room, they heard voices coming from the east bedroom.
"My third son, this is your cousin Zhou Xiaotao. Xiaotao, say hi to your cousin."
Lu Jiao raised an eyebrow when she heard those words. Her evil mother-in-law was out and about again. It seemed that she would die if she went a day without causing chaos.
Lu Jiao took the three little ones to the bedroom door. They didn't enter and watched the show from the outside.
Inside the east bedroom, a fragile and weak-looking woman in a pink dress shyly called out, "Cousin."
Xie Yunjin's stare was cold as he looked at the thin woman. She wasn't that young yet she acted like she was.
She had a tired-looking yellow face but she caked it in white powder. Sadly, all that powder couldn't conceal her very waxy yellow skin. This woman also pretended to be very shy and timid.
Xie Yunjin found this to be spicy to his eyes. He didn't look at this woman and turned to Lady Ruan.
While doing so, he caught sight of Lu Jiao watching from the door.
Xie Yunjin saw how much fun Lu Jiao was having and he was instantly furious.
"Lu Jiao, did you not see our guests? Why aren't you in here hosting?"
He then shut his eyes and pretended to be tired.
Lu Jiao rolled her eyes as if saying, can't you deal with your own problem?
Xie Yunjin no longer planned to participate in this. Lu Jiao couldn't do the same so she entered with the three little ones.
Before she could say anything, the three children rushed to the bed and gave Zhao Xiaotao warning stares.
"Who are you? Why are you here?"
"Are you here to be my dad's concubine?"
"Are you here to have my dad's children?"
"You're shameless."
Those words were so sharp, Xie Yunjin started to cough. He glared at the four little ones and glared at Lu Jiao. If Lu Jiao didn't talk nonsense to the kids, they never would've learned the concept of concubine.
Lu Jiao nervously looked at the four little ones to comfort them.
In front of the bed, Zhao Xiaotao started to cry. As if she's been wronged, she croaked out crying, "Cousin, how can they talk to me like this?"
Lady Ruan also exploded, "Third son, look at this wife of yours! She's taught your sons so many bad things. Just what will they become once they grow up?"
108 Someone to Help Around the House
Lu Jiao snickered and responded fiercely, "Mother, how come I never knew we had this cousin?"
This mother truly had issues. If she wanted another wife for Xie Yunjin, she should've found a prettier or smarter one. Why did she find someone so ugly? This was like jalapeno to her son's eyes. He's always had a high standard and would never show interest in someone like that.
As Lu Jiao silently vented, she checked out Zhou Xiaotao and concluded that she was similar to Shen Xiu. They were both weak-looking women who pretended to be naive.
At least Shen Xiu was very good-looking. This woman here had nothing to show for it. She was already 17 to 18 years old with a very thin frame. Her face was very average and she had absolutely no curves. She was, however, quite an actor.
Sadly, she had no idea how ugly she looked at the moment. Her tears had rubbed off much of the powder, which made her face look blotchy. Her face was now in patches of white and yellow and was very displeasing to the eyes.
The four little ones formed a circle and mumbled together.
"She's so ugly."
"She looks like a ghost."
"She looks scarier than a ghost."
"I've never met someone so ugly."
The four little ones thought they were whispering but everyone heard them.
Zhou Xiaotao cried harder while Lady Ruan scolded the children, "First Born, what are you going on about?! This is your aunt, how can you be so disrespectful towards your aunt?!"
The four little ones ignored Lady Ruan and looked at Lu Jiao.
Lu Jiao was calm, "Mom, I don't remember having this cousin. How come she didn't attend my wedding ceremony with Yunjin?"
Lady Ruan wanted to scratch this woman's eyes out.
This b!tch! It was all because of her that her son was no longer attached to his family. There was no other reason. Before her son had always complied with all her requests yet now, he was so inconsiderate.
Though Lady Ruan hated Lu Jiao, she's never won against her in a fight so she endured.
She faked a smile and said to Lu Jiao, "What do you mean? Your father's sister is from the Zhou family. This is her uncle's daughter, which makes her Yunjin's cousin."
Lu Jiao finally found out where this cousin came from. This was Xie Yunjin's aunt's niece. To get rid of Lu Jiao, this old woman sure put in a lot of work.
Lu Jiao remembered that the Zhou family never interacted with Lady Ruan. Were they talking now because they have something to gain? Why would she send someone from the Zhou family here?
Lu Jiao nonchalantly grinned, "Ah, cousin Zhou. Mother, why did you bring cousin Zhou here?"
Lady Ruan faked yet another smile, "Your mother left, right? It's too hard for you to take care of my son and my grandchildren at the same time. I brought Xiaotao here to help out."
The four little ones were the first to object angrily.
"My dad doesn't need her care."
"She's so ugly. My dad wouldn't like her."
"My mom knows how to take care of my dad."
"She's not welcomed."
Zhou Xiaotao once again cried. Humiliated, she looked to Xie Yunjin, hoping he would take her side.
Sadly, Xie Yunjin didn't even spare her a glance. He coldly gawked at Lady Ruan while a storm formed on his face.
Lady Ruan didn't notice and furiously frowned at the four little ones. She scolded Lu Jiao, "Lu Jiao, how have you been teaching these kids?! If you don't know how to educate them, I will bring them back and educate them."
Once those words came out, the air around Lu Jiao changed. Disdain spilled out of her pores as her eyes sharpened, "Mother, how do you think these four kids, educated by me, compare to you as an individual?"
Lady Ruan's face cooled as she stared back, "Lu Jiao, what do you mean by that?"
The snarl on Lu Jiao's lips deepened. She may be chubby with a full face but she was dazzling, "So you are fully aware of the kind of person you are. Since you are aware, then don't tell me how to educate my children. No matter how poorly of a job I am doing, my children will grow up to be better humans than you. No… they're going to be MUCH better humans than you."
Lady Ruan's face turned black right away. She gritted her teeth and cursed, "lu Jiao, how dare you talk to your mother-in-law in this way?!"
No longer looking at Lu Jiao, she turned to Xie Yunjin, "Xie Yunjin, did you see that? This is how your wife treats your old mother. How can you have a wife like this?!"
Xie Yunjin's dark eyes were cold, distant, and without emotions. His gaze unsettled her.
Very quickly, she used Lu Jiao as a scapegoat for Xie Yunjin's attitude. That b!tch ruined their relationship! She must make Xiaotao seduce Yunjin and get rid of this b!tch.
Lady Ruan suddenly started to cry and mumbled sadly, "Out of the pureness of my heart, I found someone to help you, yet you treat me like this! I know it was my fault for kicking you out before but I have changed. I've been wanting to repair our relationship and I found someone today to make your lives easier. Not only did you not accept my kindness, you are rude to me! How heartless of you!"
Lady Ruan tried to run outside but Lu Jiao spoke up, "Mother, we misunderstood. You brought us a helper, of course, we accept this."
Lu Jiao was troubled by all the housework she had to do. It was great that Lady Ruan brought someone to her doorstep.
Tomorrow, she would need to teach the villagers and figure out a teaching schedule for the children. On top of that, she needed to take care of the four little ones and Xie Yunjin. Since her mother went home, she had more work than ever. It was good to have a helper.
Lady Ruan had a bad feeling.
Zhou Xiaotao also didn't like how this sounded. She was here to help Xie Yunjin, not be a helper for the whole family. This made her sound like a servant.
As she was about to speak, the Village and Clan Leaders, and a few elders walked in.
They realized right away that something was off.
The Village and Clan leaders saw Lady Ruan and knew that she was out here to cause trouble again. The Clan Leader was the first to speak, "What are you doing here?"
This time, Lu Jiao answered, "Clan Leader, mother noticed that I have a lot of housework so she found me a helper."
Lady Ruan and Zhou Xiaotao's faces dropped. Zhou Xiaotao wanted to speak but the Clan Leader beat her to it, "You have such a good heart?"
Lady Ruan was a little afraid of the leaders. They've never liked her and wanted Xie Laogen to leave her. She couldn't afford to get on their bad side today.
Lady Ruan winked at Zhou Xiaotao and immediately replied, "Yes, I noticed that my third daughter-in-law is very tired so I found someone to help out around the house."
109 This is Horrifying
Both the Village and Clan Leaders were emotionally intelligent. It wasn't difficult for them to figure out what was happening.
Lady Ruan was out here doing devious things again. The Village Leader was very angry as he stared at her.
The four little ones didn't fully understand the conversation between Lady Ruan and Lu Jiao. They were flustered as they jumped in, "Mommy, I don't want here inside our home."
"Yeah, she keeps on crying."
Lu Jiao lowered her head and whispered to the children, "Your grandma invited her here to help us with housework. You can ask her to do all the daily housekeeping things. That way, I will have time to play with you."
"Is that true?"
The four little ones suspiciously eyed Lady Ruan, then Zhou Xiaotao.
Ask her to do all the daily housekeeping things?
Zhou Xiaotao's face changed color. She wanted to explain that she was here to take care of her cousin, not here as a housekeeper.
Lady Ruan shot Zhou Xiaotao a look to tell her to shut up. Lady Ruan knew that if she said anything now, the Leader would kick her out.
Zhou Xiaotao looked at the man who was as handsome as the most flawless piece of jade, who was as perfect as a painting. She kept her mouth shut.
To marry her cousin, she'd endure whatever came her way today.
Zhou Xiaotao shot a warning look towards Lu Jiao. Just she wait!
Lu Jiao wanted to roll her eyes in response. What was this woman daydreaming about? There was no way Xie Yunjin would be into a woman like her.
Inside the bedroom, Lady Ruan felt pressured by the presence of the elders. She announced, "Okay, she will stay. I will go."
Lady Ruan left, leaving behind a scared Zhou Xiaotao.
Lu Jiao wanted to give her tasks to complete. However, the First Born beat her to it, "You, come over here and do something for us."
Zhou Xiaotao stretched her lips upwards and forced a smile as she pretended to be kind.
"Sure."
The First Born shuddered. She was truly horrifyingly ugly.
Everyone else in the room also felt chills from that pale and bi-colored face. The Leaders looked away.
Lu Jiao watched as the four little ones took Zhou Xiaotao outside. She wasn't worried that the kids would be tricked by that woman – those children were highly intelligent.
Lu Jiao asked the Leaders to sit down, then made some tea for everyone.
"Yunjin, we are here because we need advice. Help us out."
Xie Yunjin was the only scholar in the village. Whenever something big came up, the Leaders would ask for his opinion.
Today, they couldn't decide on something so they came to discuss it with Xie Yunjin.
Xie Yunjin didn't find this annoying. He gently asked, "What's the matter?"
The Village Leader said, "You asked your wife to teach everyone herbs, right? This was originally a great idea. However, we are not sure if we should extend that offer to everyone in the village, or keep that knowledge to the Xie Clan.
The Xie Village, compared to other villages, is pretty harmonious. There are a few bad apples here, but in general, everyone is kind.
If we only allow people from the Xie Clan to learn, those without the Xie last name would form their own alliance which would split up our village. This may hurt the atmosphere in this village.
If we allow everyone in this village to learn, I'm worried that some people from the Xie Clan would complain. They might be worried that they now have to share the profit they could earn from selling herbs with more people. They might worry that they won't be able to make money from this."
The Village Leader was put in a difficult spot. He was originally very happy that Lu Jiao offered to teach everyone how to identify herbs. Only now did he realize there were many hard decisions he had to make related to this decision. He wasn't sure what to do and that was why he came here to discuss it with Xie Yunjin.
Xie Yunjin's eyes were crystal clear as he thought it over. Very quickly, he looked back up to the leaders, "Let's teach everyone. Village Leader, host a meeting and ask everyone from the village to attend. Make those outside of the Xie Clan promise that they will look for herbs from neighboring mountains. The herbs from the mountain we live right beside will be reserved for the Xie Clan.
There are lots of different mountains around the area, not just the one mountain the Xie Village is closest to. Also, it would help if you told the Xie Clan that harvesting herbs shouldn't be everyone's sole source of income. It's a temporary opportunity that could supplement everyone's income. In the future, I will think of a more sustainable source of income for everyone. Therefore, I hope our village does not divide over short-term profit."
The Leaders liked Xie Yunjin's suggestion. They thought this was very reasonable. First of all, telling those with a different surname to harvest herbs from a different mountain will both reassure the Xie Clan and also give the others an opportunity to make money. They will just have to travel a bit further.
Second of all, Xie Yunjin offered to think of a more sustainable way for the villagers to make money. That promise made sure that none of the villagers would fight over this one thing.
The Clan Leader happily stood up, "Okay, then we will execute accordingly."
Just then, the Clan leader remembered that Lu Jiao didn't get along with a few of the families. Would she be willing to teach those people?
"Does Yunjin's wife have something to add?"
Lu Jiao said to the leaders, "From our family, please send my second sister-in-law. I don't want to see the others."
She then added, "Ask Xia Lian from Widow Li's family to come instead of Widow Li."
If she didn't pity Xia Lian, she didn't want anyone from that family.
As for Aunt Guihua, she apologized and Lu Jiao had no reason to not forgive her.
Plus, this whole herb business was not going to make anyone rich. It was just going to improve everyone's quality of life a little bit.
The Clan Leader agreed, "Okay, then Fugui will take care of this."
Xie Fugui nodded, "I'll go ahead and make everything happen. Tomorrow, we can start the lessons."
Xie Fugui roughly counted how many families there were in this village. Even if every family only sent one person, there won't be enough room in this house.
"Yunjin's wife, if everyone comes, there wouldn't be enough space to even stand in here."
Lu Jiao had thought of that already. She pointed to her yard, "Ask everyone to bring their own chair. We'll sit outside. Honestly, I'm just going to explain the purpose of several herbs. I don't know if they will be able to remember everything. I have found several herbs as examples. They can each bring some while they're out there, and compare it to herbs they see in the mountains. After some time, they'll be able to remember everything."
Lu Jiao didn't think that she had enough herbs to give out. Tomorrow, she'll have to harvest some more in the morning.
The Leaders happily nodded, "Okay, we will tell everyone as we discussed."
Everyone inside the room smiled. Suddenly, someone outside started to cry.
Everyone looked to the door as Zhou Xiaotao walked in all teared up.
"Cousin, they… they asked me to clean the dog's house and shovel the dog poop."
Zhou Xiaotao pitifully looked towards Xie Yunjin, as if she'd been bullied.
Sadly, there was nothing attractive about her right now. The blocks of white and yellow on her face made her look scarier than ever.
Xie Yunjin couldn't help but frown with a cold expression.
Zhou Xiaotao was shocked by that look and for a moment, forgot to cry.
The Leaders glanced between Xie Yunjin, Lu Jiao, and Zhou Xiaotao. They didn't know how to deal with this.
The only thing in common was that everyone was silently cursing at Lady Ruan.
Lu Jiao truly couldn't directly look at Zhou Xiaota's face. Angrily, she yelled, "You are crying because of a dog house? Do you do nothing all day back at home? Do you only eat and not work normally?"
That woman was fragile as a stick and her skin looked extremely unhealthy. It was obvious that she wasn't wealthy nor was she treated like a rich lady.
Given that, it was logical to assume that back at home, she often fed the pigs and chickens, and cleaned pigs' pens. She only cried now to make a scene.
110 Intentionally Intimidate
Lu Jiao's face grew unpleasant, "Hurry up and go wash your face. Do you know that you look like a ghost right now?"
Only now did Zhou Xiaotao remember she put on powder this morning. Her skin wasn't good so she layered powder on. Then she cried a few times today.
This retaliation shocked her. She covered her face with her hands and ran outside.
Behind her, the Village and Clan Leaders shook their heads. They looked over to Lu Jiao, "Do you want us to go find your mother-in-law and ask her to take that woman back?"
Xie Yunjin also looked to Lu Jiao. Before, Lu Jiao couldn't really express what she wanted. He definitely didn't want Zhou Xiaotao to stay, but since Lu Jiao spoke up, she can deal with it. He sure wanted to see just how Lu Jiao wanted to deal with Zhou Xiaotao.
He knew that Lu Jiao could tell what Zhou Xiaotao's intentions were.
Lu Jiao honestly didn't care too much. She will soon separate from Xie Yunjin. Whether or not Zhou Xiaotao married him didn't matter to her.
If Zhou Xiaotao stayed, she could help with housework. This was good. Right now, Lu Jiao was overworked.
Plus, if they kick Zhou Xiaotao out, Lady Ruan would go around and taint their names. Lu Jiao only had two to three months left in this house and she didn't want too much drama.
Lu Jiao thought about it and finally said, "Leaders, I don't want to take up more of your time. I will take care of Zhou Xiaotao."
The Leaders didn't say much else. They said bye to Xie Yunjin and then left the Xie family house.
Inside the bedroom, Xie Yunjin's deep dark gaze landed on Lu Jiao.
Lu Jiao's heart felt fuzzy because of that, "What's wrong?"
Xie Yunjin asked suspiciously, "Why does it feel like you're now a whole different person?"
Lu Jiao's heart jumped up to her throat. She asked nervously, "How's that possible?"
Xie Yunjin pretended not to have noticed how alerted Lu Jiao got and said in a confused tone, "You once liked me so much and now, you stopped liking me just like that. Don't you find that strange?"
Lu Jiao explained, "That's because you broke my heart. I've decided to stop liking you. Isn't that normal?"
Xie Yunjin shook his head. His voice was low and crisp, "Even when one decides to stop liking someone, it's impossible to retrieve feelings so cleanly like this. It takes time. Looking at you now, you don't seem to feel anything toward me anymore. The person you are today doesn't seem like the original you…"
Xie Yunjin's words gave Lu Jiao so much anxiety. She honestly agreed with what Xie Yunjin was saying.
Even if someone got hurt from a relationship, there was no way they would be able to contain all their emotions in the snap of a finger. Therefore, her recent attitude towards Xie Yunjin didn't make much sense. If this continues, he will get very suspicious of her identity.
Lu Jiao's chubby face started to morph. Sadness filled her eyes as she spoke solemnly, "Yunjin, you don't know how much feelings I still have towards you. I don't want you to know… Don't worry, I will do my best to forget everything."
Then, she quickly went up to him and fixed his blanket, "Rest well. If you need anything, call me."
Then, out of nowhere, she started to curse.
"That b!tch Zhou Xiaotao! She dares to want to take you away from me?! I will teach her a lesson! She is seeking death!"
Lu Jiao then rolled up her sleeves and left as if she was going to beat Zhou Xiaotao up.
Behind her, the skepticism on Xie Yunjin's face disappeared.
His eyes formed half-moons as he grinned. How interesting… Who knew Lu Jiao would be so good at acting depressed? This woman was a professional liar. She was a scam!
If he wasn't aware and convinced that someone else existed within that body, he would've fallen for her act.
Outside the house, Zhou Xiaotao stared at her own reflection in the tank of water. Once she saw herself, she felt she'd been thunderstruck. Who was this? Was this a ghost?!
By the time Zhou Xiaotao realized she was looking at herself, she started to howl. This time, she was truly sad.
As she cried, she started to wash her face with the water from the tank.
Lu Jiao caught this and her face turned dark. That water was for the family to drink and cook with. That woman was using it to wash her face?
Unimaginably angry, Lu Jiao stormed towards Zhou Xiaotao.
"Zhou Xiaotao, you dare to use my water to wash your face?!"
Lu Jiao filled up two tanks of water every day. One for washing up and brushing and one for drinking and cooking. Zhou Xiaotao was using the drinking water to wash her face.
Lu Jiao was furious.
She walked up to Zhou Xiaotao and grabbed her, "Thoroughly wash up my tank right now and fill it up!"
Zhou Xiaotao jumped and struggled, "What are you doing?! Let me go!"
No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't get away from Lu Jiao.
Lu Jiao's brows were heavy as she ordered once again, "Clean up my tank and go into the village to get me fresh buckets of water. I need it for tonight."
She then let go of her, "Hurry up and do it!"
Zhou Xiaotao was absolutely stunned. While crying, she started to clean the tank.
Since she was cleaning it rather well, Lu Jiao hissed, "Once it's clean, go into the village and fill it up. Come back and broom the yard. After the yard is clean, cut all that firewood piled before my kitchen."
Zhou Xiaotao looked up at Lu Jiao in disbelief.
Lu Jiao wasn't in the mood for this, "What are you staring at?! Do it! Don't forget why you are here. My mother-in-law sent you here to do housework. Don't even try to be lazy."
Zhou Xiaotao was angered by that. She stood up straight and gaped at Lu Jiao, "I'm not here to do housework. I am…"
Lu Jiao was collected, "What are you here for then?"
No matter how dumb Zhou Xiaotao may be, she knew she couldn't speak out loud about her purpose here. There was no way she could straight up tell Lu Jiao that Lady Ruan sent her here to seduce Xie Yunjin.
If she said that, she would have no reputation to save. This fat b!tch Lu Jiao would definitely throw her out.
The list of work Lu Jiao gave her, however, darkened Zhou Xiaotao's face. Was she really here to do more work? Hasn't she done enough of that back at home?
She wasn't going to do this.
Zhou Xiaotao turned and started to run. Scared that Lu Jiao might chase after her, she ran at an amazing speed.
Behind her, Lu Jiao snickered and watched. If she was truly smart, she better not come back. If she came back, more housework awaited.
When she saw the dirty water, however, Lu Jiao was very exasperated. A full tank of clean water was now unusable. She had to go and fetch more.
Lu Jiao accepted her fate and started to clean the tank.
Nearby, the four little ones started to walk over to Lu Jiao and carefully commented, "Mommy, I don't want that ugly woman to live here."
"Our home is ours. I don't want an outsider here."
"We asked her to clean the puppies' home, and she got scared and cried. She's both ugly and stupid."