When Ye Jiao heard this, she was a little puzzled at first. Ye Jiao blankly looked at him when the man held her face: "I wasn't burned; I wasn't scalded…"
Qi Yun's eyes landed on the rouge box in her hand; knowing that he had misunderstood, he lightly coughed. He feared that Ye Jiao would be sad and took the rouge box from Ye Jiao's hand, putting it aside, saying: "I was just dazzled and didn't see clearly; it's my fault." He wanted to shift the topic: "The pigeons in the small kitchen are simmering first; it tastes the same whether you wait to drink (the soup) or not."
Ye Jiao really wanted to drink the pigeon-stewed soup. The Little Ginseng wanted to try out everything she hadn't experienced already.
But Ye Jiao could see this person behaving strangely and understood after thinking. She finally dressed up, but her husband didn't like it, which made her a little disappointed: "It doesn't look good?"
Qi Yun looked around for a while but didn't say anything.
To tell the truth, it's naturally… not good-looking.
Qi Second Son never questioned the beauty of his wife, with her red lips and white teeth and lovely facial features. Ye Jiao didn't like to go out when she was in the Ye family because the more beautiful the daughter of a poor family was, the more dangerous. This kind of appearance was indeed inviting.
The woman next door needed to put powder on her face to obtain a fair complexion, but Ye Jiao was able to nourish herself. Her skin was fair and rosy [1] – even if she wore a plain face before, she would still look good.
Now, Ye Jiao used rouge and painted a mottled appearance, especially with the two blushes on her cheeks. She looked like a doll in a New Year's painting, and it wasn't really pretty.
Qi Second Son wasn't blunt; he just told her: "You've used more than necessary. This rouge shouldn't be applied too much; a little is enough."
Ye Jiao's eyes were still a little lost: "So would it be better for me not to use this?"
Qi Yun didn't immediately agree. In his opinion, his Jiao Niang had a good foundation and she looked pretty without makeup. However, since Jiao Niang wanted to use it, he naturally wouldn't say anything to upset her temperament.
Nothing could be judged as good or bad – it ultimately depended on whether you liked it or not.
Whatever the lady liked, he would unconditionally support it.
Reaching out and pinching Ye Jiao's earlobe, Qi Yun slowly said: "Jiao Niang looks good without this, but you'll look even better if you use it. Go and wash your face, I'll help you."
Ye Jiao heard this and looked at him in surprise: "Xiang Gong, you know how to use rouge?"
"It's not that I know in particular; I haven't touched it before. I've just seen my mother put on makeup when I was a child, so I have a general knowledge. If I don't do well, don't laugh at me." When Qi Yun spoke, the corners of his mouth curled up slightly, giving Ye Jiao a lot of confidence.
Ye Jiao didn't know anything about putting on rouge. Hearing Qi Yun speak, he also didn't know, but Ye Jiao blindly trusted Qi Yun and immediately got up to wash her face.
When facing the water basin, the reflection in it was much more clear than that of the bronze mirror, and Ye Jiao could see her current appearance.
… Where did this demon come from!
She subconsciously took a step back but reacted quickly. Her face flushed and she immediately washed her face with warm water, thinking that it wasn't that Xiang Gong didn't like it, but he was frightened.
With this appearance, not scaring people would be a strange reaction.
After cleaning up, Ye Jiao was a little embarrassed when she returned. She looked at Qi Yun and said: "Xiang Gong, did I scare you just now?"
Qi Yun already changed his clothes in the room and was waiting for her. Seeing her come back, he smiled and replied: "How can I frighten so easily."
Even if one is scared, they can't admit it.
The man stood at the table and waved at Ye Jiao: "Come here."
Ye Jiao trotted over and immediately sat down, looking at him with her head raised very obediently.
He actually had never put rouge on anyone before. Qi Yun never touched it, but for the sake of his Jiao Niang, Qi Yun went to wash his hands just now and remembered the books he had read before. He smeared rouge on the back of his hand and tried it on several times. There were still several marks left over on the back of his slightly pale hand. Finally, he had a general understanding of it.
Talented people learned things quickly, but Qi Yun never thought that one day he would use his talent on rouge.
Everything was worth it, though, for Ye Jiao to be happy.
Since she had a good foundation from left to right, Qi Yun only lightly patted her cheeks.
The rouge was already red and bright and a light layer was good, but other than this Qi Yun wouldn't use anything else.
He picked up the lipstick and dabbed it on her lips, gently smoothing it out.
This was supposed to be a very simple step, but Qi Yun didn't think he did it too well. At least, he didn't know the lip makeup styles that other girls liked to paint.
However, Ye Jiao's face was particularly impressive, with smooth, high quality skin and gorgeous facial features. A simple modification was enough.
Especially after the red lipstick was applied, she became even more radiant and soft…
Qi Yun's fingertips paused slightly. His originally focused and meticulous gaze moved, unconsciously focusing on her lips and pressing them again.
Soft and red.
Qi Yun could still remember the warm touch whenever she kissed his cheek.
Jiao Niang didn't know what Qi Yun was thinking. Seeing that his pale face was a little red, she couldn't help holding Qi Yun's wrist worriedly: "Xiang Gong, are you uncomfortable?"
Qi Yun immediately released his hand, looked away, and lightly coughed: "No, I'm not uncomfortable."
Ye Jiao also felt that there wasn't a problem with his pulse – she probably just misunderstood. She smiled at Qi Yun and turned to look at herself in the mirror.
In the bronze mirror was a blurry outline. Ye Jiao couldn't clearly see when she looked from left to right, so she returned to the front of the water basin to get a closer look.
Even though it wasn't very clear, you could vaguely see a hibiscus-like face [2] inside, which was much better than the colorful one just now.
Ye Jiao immediately had a smile on her face. The Little Ginseng also loved beauty. Who wouldn't want to look better?
She turned her head and smiled at Qi Yun: "What Xiang Gong painted is truly beautiful."
Qi Yun's calm mannerism was struck by her bright smile. Trying to maintain his usual composed attitude, the man said: "It's Jiao Niang who is naturally good-looking. How else would everything (about you) look so good?"
Ye Jiao shook her head: "The flowery and colorful appearance just now didn't look good."
Qi Yun couldn't help but laugh and took Ye Jiao's hand. He changed the subject: "You don't seem to like this bronze mirror."
Ye Jiao had always been frank with him. She said: "It's not that I don't like it. I usually look at it, but I can't see people clearly."
The bronze mirror in Qi Yun's house was a popular style of bronze mirror on the market these days.
One side was smooth while the other side was carved. It looked like a delicate handicraft placed there, but it wasn't very clear. When people were reflected in it, they seemed to be covered with fog. The one in Qi Yun's house was foggier than ordinary ones.
Because Qi Yun himself was not a person who liked to look in mirrors, he didn't have a need for the bronze mirror. After Ye Jiao came, she used it when she tied her hair. No one paid any attention to whether or not it was actually useful.
The bronze mirror was more like a necessity in the house. Once it's set down, one doesn't think about using it.
After the arrival of Ye Jiao, though, everything was brand new and what's meant to be used was used.
Now that Ye Jiao mentioned it, Qi Yun thought and said: "Let's go back and change it to a better bronze mirror. However, no matter how good it is, it won't be very clear. People from the caravan have said that there is a kind of mirror in the Western Regions that's much clearer than a bronze mirror."
Ye Jiao heard a new term: "What's a caravan?"
Qi Yun explained: "We do business with merchants from the Western regions. They'll gather together to form a caravan, sell our things out, buy back things from outside, and earn the difference in being the middlemen. It's always been very profitable, but dangerous."
Ye Jiao didn't know anything about shopping. Of course she's happy if she had money, but if it was dangerous, it was bad: "If there's danger, then Xiang Gong shouldn't go."
"(I'm) just asking them to buy stuff; not just your mirror, but also some furnishings for the wine shop." Qi Yun didn't elaborate but just reassured Ye Jiao.
But in the heart of the man, it was only a matter of time for the caravan. He even planned to form one himself when he had the capital in the future.
Additionally, he would do many things one after another.
Just a prosperous wine shop couldn't give the Qi family much protection.
It was naturally good for Qi Ming to be able to take the county exam, but no one could say anything about the imperial exam. Whether he succeeded or not depended on not only his aptitude, but the will of God. The last leg depended on the Emperor's likes and dislikes. It was really difficult to guess (how well he would do).
Qi Yun, for the sake of Qi Ming's future, would help him. But he would still have to rely on himself in other aspects.
Nowadays businessmen were no longer discriminated against, and some even received preferential treatment in certain cases. It was clear to Qi Yun, though, that if you wanted to benefit from the path of going into business, it wasn't enough to have a few small shops.
There were a lot of things he had to do, step by step, to provide him and Jiao Niang a shelter in the end.
Holding Ye Jiao's hand tightly, Qi Yun softly said: "I'll paint your eyebrows for you."
Ye Jiao nodded with a smile: "Okay."
Looking at Qi Yun with her head raised, Ye Jiao noticed the person who was focusing on holding the indigo liner to draw her eyebrows. The more she looked at Qi Yun, the more handsome Qi Yun became.
Ye Jiao tried her best to recall the words she recently learned.
A clear outline, bright and starry-eyed – in short, good-looking.
The woman could feel the touch of the indigo liner being swept on her eyebrows. When both sides were drawn, Ye Jiao softly asked: "Is it done?"
Qi Yun solemnly picked up the damp cloth on the side and wiped her eyebrows: "Not yet, wait a bit."
At the same time, the man sighed in his heart. It's said that a couple drawing on eyebrows in ancient times was intimate, but it was actually more difficult than applying rouge.
The men who draw eyebrows as a daily routine have deft hands that don't shake and good skills that make the eyebrows symmetrical.
Fortunately, Qi Yun had good luck today and he finished the painting after two repetitions. Although he did not say that it was very beautiful, his painting was light, and it was acceptable.
He sighed again; it's a blessing to have such a good-looking wife and he wasn't afraid of messing up her foundation.
Qi Yun's face was light as wind, as if he did a small thing, but after Yu Jiao happily left, Qi Yun put on his robe again, took the stove, and went to Liu Shi's yard.
How should he ask Liu Shi to find someone who could teach Jiao Niang make-up? It didn't matter if Jiao Niang learned, or if he learned himself.
After all, Qi Second Son really couldn't guarantee that he would be lucky enough to draw symmetrically next time…
Ye Jiao got on the bullock cart, accompanied by Dong Shi and Liu Pozi.
Liu Shi specially sent Liu Pozi to follow her. She felt that Ye Jiao had a soft-natured temper. It would be fine if it was the first time she went out, but if she encountered some trouble, her soft and well-behaved daughter-in-law would be fooled by others. Having Liu Pozi come along was also a form of protection.
Ye Jiao and Liu Pozi were also familiar with each other. She was the one who followed her the last time she left the house, and now she's still with her. As soon as they got in the cart, Ye Jiao shared the snacks she brought.
Liu Pozi took a closer look and saw that it was a few pieces of taro donuts. It was grounded dried taro and kneaded with flour. The stuffing had chicken. It was said to be a snack, but it was more like a staple food.
There weren't many people who could make this at home, and it wasn't easy to buy outside. Only the cooks in a few restaurants in the town have the skill to make this.
It looked like the second young master's negotiations with the restaurant and stores from before were successful.
Liu Pozi had been following Liu Shi for a while, and she knew some things about the family. Even if she guessed it, she would only be happy for her second young master.
She had been listening to Liu Shi's private conversations saying that Ye Jiao was a lucky person. Not only was she blessed, but she would share her blessings with Qi Yun.
Liu Pozi was superstitious and naturally treated Ye Jiao more and more respectfully.
Dong Shi was different. She didn't see anything special about the donut. She just thought it tasted good. She also remembered the discussion she had with Ye Jiao about the cultivation methods of those medicinal flowers, which made her a little distracted.
However Ye Jiao didn't focus on any of them. She just ate the taro donuts in mouthfuls, touched her stomach, and looked satisfied.
The distance from the Qi family's house to town was not close, but the road was big, flat, and open, so the ox cart could travel quickly.
Soon after the donuts were eaten, they arrived at the place.
Ye Jiao lifted the curtain and looked out. She felt that the streets here were more prosperous. There were some small vendors on both sides, and many shops were open. The Qi family's wine shop was not far from the street.
Dong Shi held Ye Jiao by the side and said: "This is a good location. I was afraid it wouldn't be easy to build up. The business must be booming."
Half of this was flattery, and the other half was sincerity.
Now was not the time to think "the fragrance of wine is not afraid of deep alleys". The imperial court encouraged commercial development, and more and more shops opened. To sell good things, in addition to shouting, you needed a good location.
Dong Shi and her husband run the Qi family's pharmacy. Although the location was not bad, it was far from the prosperity here.
Looking at it with some envy, Dong Shi thought in her heart that it was time for her husband to get involved with the boss's family. They couldn't watch other people eat meat while they drank soup.
Steward Song stood at the door with a smile on his face, waiting for the auspicious time, and saw the Qi family's car coming. He hurried to welcome them: "Second Young Lady, take your time." Then he turned his head to the yservant and said: "Hurry up and bring a stool; help the Second Young Lady get off."
Ye Jiao picked up the curtain and came out without being helped. She stepped on the stool and got out of the car, looked up at Steward Song, and said with a smile: "Steward Song, Xiang Gong let me take a look. Hope I didn't bother your business?"
When Ye Jiao came down, Steward Song was a little surprised. This was the first time he saw Ye Jiao wearing make-up and he didn't expect her to look so outstanding.
Qi Yun saw Ye Jiao all the time, and naturally he couldn't see the difference in Ye Jiao, but Steward Song doesn't see her often. When he saw her suddenly like this, he felt that there was a big change.
In addition to the complexion, there was also the temperament. One couldn't see the previous poverty. Instead, she looked like a charming lady from a honey pot.
But Steward Song didn't look for too long; he quickly looked away and said with a smile on his face, "No bother, no bother; the Second Young Lady looks so good today. Come and sit inside." As he was talking, Dong Shi and Liu Pozi [3] also followed down. Steward Song greeted the servant with a smile: "Take the few distinguished guests to the second floor and find a good tea to prepare."
However, when Ye Jiao went to take a seat by the window on the second floor, she saw from the view that there were about four or five people coming towards this side with their heads tilted and a menacing look.
Ye Jiao was a little curious: "Did they also come to see the fun?"
Dong Shi glanced at them and frowned slightly: "They're not here to join the fun. Seems like they're local ruffians who want to stir up trouble."
Soon, Dong Shi's words were confirmed. Those people stood in front of the shop and the leader shouted: "Our Boss Sun said that your shop is hindering the feng shui of the Sun family's bank. If you want to open the store, bring the money first!"
When those words came out, Dong Shi said in a low voice: "It's true that they came here to pick a quarrel. Who announces themselves before looking for trouble?"
If it wasn't out of stupidity, then it was out of a bad intention to come and smash the place.
Footnotes:
[1] The literal translation is "red and white" but I substituted with words in English that are more related to skin tone.
[2] I believe this phrase is from the poem "Nine Hibiscus Peaks" by Yuan Fu. I couldn't find a professional translation of the poem but here's an attempt using machine TL:
There is half a mountain in the bottom of my eyes, what does the face of the hibiscus look like?Suddenly, the white moon hung in the sky, the mountain spirit will not fail me.
TL;DR, 'hibiscus-like face' = beautiful
[3] I think this is a typo from the raw; the author mentioned someone named "Sun Pozi" but I believe they were referring to Liu Pozi.
Ye Jiao didn't know what feng shui was, but she could see that these people were not going to let the Qi family's wine shop open smoothly.
Although there weren't many people who came and they didn't have any murder weapons, their roguish appearance made it clear that they came to stir things up.
At this moment, Steward Song had planned to go in with a sound. Before the auspicious hour, he would look for a chance to please the owner's young lady. Who knew that there was such a disturbance, nailing him outside so he couldn't get away.
With a frown, Dong Shi's eyes flashed with disgust and she whispered: "Jiao Niang, I'm afraid we can't get rid of these people with money."
A happy event like the opening of an ordinary shop often attracted some idlers.
Beggars would come over with sticks and sing auspicious songs to ask for money, while local ruffians will come over to find a way to swindle money.
Generally, merchants send them away with money to avoid disasters, but this kind of people that reported their family in the beginning couldn't be good.
If reported to the officer, most of the officers would not take it seriously since it was a small matter.
If let go of, it's still a trivial matter that disturbs the auspicious time, but it would be troublesome if it hurt one's reputation.
Ye Jiao blinked. The Little Ginseng had just become a human. She didn't know much about these things, but good and evil were clear in her world.
If people like Xiang Gong were good, then these people were bad. They were such awful people that even spirits wouldn't like them.
Naturally, with the same hatred on her face, Ye Jiao followed Dong Shi and said: "These people are very bad."
Dong Shi nodded along, but there was some worry on her face for fear that Steward Song would not handle it well and cause trouble.
As soon as the two of them had finished speaking, Ye Jiao saw Steward Song from downstairs greeting them.
Steward Song had a smile on his face. He was getting older. Although he was shrewd, he had a gentle and kind face. Now his smile looked even more loving: "You few, peace and prosperity. This small store is not open yet. Fortunately, there's a lot of good wine. If you have something to say, why don't we go inside?
It was an indisputable response [1]. Steward Song never mentioned the Sun family, as if he hadn't heard them.
These people were naturally unhappy. If they go in and talk, how could they cause trouble?
If there was no trouble, how could the people who sent them reward them?
This was just a set of tasks, and these rascals were very familiar with it. Of course they weren't going to save Steward Song's face.
Several people among the leaders wanted to talk again, but saw that Steward Song smiled and greeted the servants over. Without giving them a chance to respond, the servants caught each person and pinned them down.
It looked like they were being welcomed in, but secretly, a person covered one's mouth while the other grasped his hand and cleanly pulled them in.
Since it wasn't the auspicious opening moment yet, and it was lunchtime, there were not many onlookers. Standing on the street, you could only see someone's back. Except for the shout at the beginning, nothing else was clearly seen. You naturally could not tell if these local ruffians happily went in or were grasped in.
But Ye Jiao on the second floor clearly saw it with surprise in her eyes.
Dong Shi let out an "eek" and said: "I used to think that Steward Song was a good-natured and astute person, but I didn't expect him to be so decisive now."
Especially since these guys looked like they were from a practiced family. Their actions were smooth and skilled; no mistakes were found, as if they had been prepared.
And after they brought in these troublemakers, they were not as polite as they were outside.
Although there was no beating or scolding, one by one were tied with a rope. They were tightly bound and it didn't look like it felt too good.
Looking at the novel situation, Ye Jiao got up and walked downstairs. Dong Shi and Liu Pozi hurriedly followed.
Steward Song coldly faced the leader and said: "Spit it. What's your name?"
The man didn't say. Steward Song lifted his hand towards his mouth.
With a snap, the blow was heavy and hard, almost instantly making half the man's face swollen, but Steward Song didn't change his expression. Ye Jiao especially wanted to compliment Steward Song with the phrase of being old and vigorous. [2]
Thinking of this, Xiao Ginseng praised herself on using an idiom.
The leader could see that the old man in charge was a ruthless character. When he saw that Steward Song raised his hand to hit him on the other side of his face, he dared not carry on and immediately howled: "Wang Wu, my name is Wang Wu!"
Steward Song nodded, put his hand down, and slowly asked: "Who sent you here?"
Wang Wu whimpered and said: "Treasurer Sun."
When Steward Song heard this, he slapped him again and gave him a symmetrical hit.
But Wang Wu wouldn't say anything even if he was beaten. Steward Song frowned.
At this time, when Steward Song saw Ye Jiao coming down, he hurriedly put away his cruel look and replaced it with an ordinary smile: "Second Young Lady, go up and rest. Leave the business to me."
Ye Jiao took a look and asked: "What are you planning to do after catching them?"
Steward Song replied: "This was ordered by the Second Young Master. He said that someone might come to make trouble today and let everyone in the shop prepare. If something went wrong, they should be caught first. Nothing can delay the opening of the shop. "
Ye Jiao heard Qi Yun's order, so she stopped asking. Instead, she looked at the troublemakers, and Steward Song followed in looking.
Although they were already tied up, it wasn't a problem to let them carry on and pretend to be stupid.
Steward Song frowned. In fact, a couple of slaps were just slaps. There were no traces after the swelling disappeared, but he couldn't really break them or else they would be blamed.
It's too late now to ask for ideas from Qi Yun. Qi Yun said that he (Steward Song) had the full authority to deal with it, but Steward Song had no rules and regulations and subconsciously said to Ye Jiao, the boss's mistress: "Second Young Lady, take a look at this matter…"
Ye Jiao had never experienced this kind of battle. These people were bad guys, but Ye Jiao didn't know how ordinary people dealt with bad guys. She was indecisive for a moment and her eyes looked over at Liu Pozi and Dong Shi.
Although Liu Pozi was old, she had always been in the back courtyard serving others, so she naturally didn't have an idea about these things.
On the contrary, it was Dong Shi with a quick temper who spoke very directly: "Not to mention the Qi family won't be afraid of you ruffians; even if you break your leg and throw it to the yamen [3], no one will listen to your grievances!"
Steward Song smiled in his heart, thinking that this Dong girl was still young. How can someone break a leg just by saying they would break a leg?
But the Little Ginseng had no idea about these. After listening to Dong Shi's words, she muttered in her heart that human beings treat bad people quite ruthlessly, and casually said: "Okay then, hit it."
Steward Song: "…"
Dong Shi: "…"
Wang Wuyi was terrified when he heard that. He originally wanted to come over to make trouble and get some money, but turns out he had a hard time!
Was it worth it to break a leg? The price is too high!
He had just thought that if the matter was given to a beautiful lady, he would get released. Who knew that this person was actually more ruthless than a man!
What a world!
Wang Wu hurriedly moved to yell. Song Guan thought he was an eyesore and feared that the shouting sound would disturb the people outside, so he waved his hand for his men to block their mouths and took them back for detailed questioning
When looking at Ye Jiao again, Steward Song was inexplicably more respectful: "Second Young Lady, do you want to tell the Second Young Master about this matter first?"
Ye Jiao was someone who asked her husband about everything, and this matter was no exception.
But before she could speak, she heard Steward Song again: "Oh, it's just that it's a long journey coming back and forth. Those people can't be shut in for too long either. Leaving them here would be a hassle. If we open like this, if would be troublesome if something happened."
Qi Yun did ask him to handle everything by himself. Steward Song had some ideas, but he rejected them all.
Ye Jiao slightly tilted her head and thought for a while: "What about sending them back to the Sun family?"
She mentioned it casually. She thought that they should go back from where they came from and not linger; it was annoying to hear them shout.
But this sentence made Steward Song's face startled.
These people were playing under the banner of the Sun family to rile things up, but in fact, anyone with a discerning eye could see that they were not sent by the Sun family. After all, no one would do things and put their own names on their foreheads. They should be afraid of people recognizing them.
No matter who sent them, it was difficult for the Qi family to handle it in the end.
Going to the yamen usually ended with a few beats of the plank and then they get released, but it would affect their own shop sign.
It's better to throw it to the Sun family and let them to ask around about who was making trouble outside under their banner. At that time, the Sun family would naturally have a way to toss out these big people and the people behind the scenes, and it has nothing to do with their own family.
Great, it was really great, this misfortune was used really well!
With a look of emotion, Steward Song immediately cupped his hand [4] at Ye Jiao and sincerely said: "The Second Young Lady is wise, really beyond the reach of ordinary people."
Ye Jiao, who was casually commenting, looked at him inexplicably. Even after Steward Song left, she still didn't understand what was going on.
The simple Little Ginseng did not know that there was a type of power that was making others think you are capable.
Plus, this was just a small episode of the opening of the shop. People outside didn't even notice that some people were taken in and taken away. Everything was over before it even started.
Steward Song bundled these people and sent them to Treasurer Sun while he himself went out, as if nothing had happened, and waited for the auspicious time to light the firecrackers for a great fortune.
The Qi family's wine store had made a name for itself with their Jade Elixir wine, and many people came to join in on the fun. The dragon and lion dance team was invited to make everything lively and exciting; naturally, no one remembered that someone just came over and tried to cause trouble.
Ye Jiao sat in front of the window on the second floor, covering her ears to block the crackling sound of firecrackers. Her eyes narrowed with laughter.
Dong Shi also covered her ears. Seeing Ye Jiao's squeamish appearance, she felt that Ye Jiao's words about beating legs were most likely meant to frighten those people. Her own Young Lady was obviously the kindest, and Dong Shi's face smiled when she thought of this. She leaned over and loudly said: "Jiao Niang, do you like watching the lion dance?"
Ye Jiao also loudly called back: "As long as Xiang Gong invited it, I like it!"
This was loudly said, but Ye Jiao didn't hesitate.
As long as it was from Xiang Gong, she liked it, because she knew that as long as it was from her, her husband liked it too.
Dong Shi smiled when she heard this, but there was envy in her eyes.
It's hard not to be envious of Qi Yun and Ye Jiao as a husband and wife.
However, it wasn't the first time that she had been shown a face by the owner and his wife. She got used to her feelings of envy after a few times, and soon Dong Shi was distracted by the lively lion dance outside.
After the excitement, Ye Jiao didn't stay too long. After all, there were more and more people gathering; Steward Song had his own business to take care of. Ye Jiao also wanted to go to the pharmacy early, so she greeted Steward Song and prepared to leave.
On her way out, she wrote a few words using the pen and paper on the table.
Dong is literate. She was surprised to see the character "Sun" written in a round shape: "Jiao Niang, what are you doing with this?"
Ye Jiao folded the paper and put it in lap. She solemnly replied: "I'll show it to my husband and tell him about it."
Dong Shi laughed as soon as she heard it, thinking that the Second Young Lady was the only one who could be so confident in this complaint.
But when they went out, Ye Jiao didn't notice two people staring at her from the corner of the street.
Once again, he was driven home by the master from the school, on the grounds that he cut the master's beard while he was sleeping.
The master yelled and didn't want to teach him anymore, but Ye Bao wasn't worried at all. He didn't like to read and write anyway. He didn't want to go and followed his heart. The little guy's age was young, so naturally he didn't know that Ye Ersao had spent money on studying. If he didn't like it, he didn't like it, and he wouldn't hide the fact.
Ye Ersao had a stomach full of anger and pulled Ye Bao home. Because she was looking for him at a school in town, when she went back she happened to run into the opening of the Qi family's wine shop.
Ye Bao was clamoring to watch the excitement, and Ye Ersao couldn't win against him. Thinking that she could get money among the hustle and bustle, she took him along. If they took a look, at least something should come out of it.
But when he was about to leave after watching the event, Ye Bao's sharp eyes spotted Ye Jiao who was getting on the ox cart at a glance. He stretched out his finger and said, "Mother, look, it's aunt!"
After pulling a few times, he didn't hear Ye Ersao's response.
Ye Bao raised his head in confusion and saw Ye Ersao staring at Ye Jiao; her hands clenched tighter and tighter.
Ye Bao yelled until his throat hurt, but Ye Ersao couldn't hear it.
It wasn't until Ye Bao pulled out his hand with all his strength that Ye Ersao came back to her senses.
She gritted her teeth and looked forward with all her might, but she couldn't read a word. She could only turn her head and ask the vendor at the stall: "Whose family is conducting this event?"
The vendors set up stalls in the town all year round, and naturally they knew: "This is the Qi family ah, the Qi wine shop of the Jade Elixir wine. It's newly opened. Looking at this scene, it is really prosperous."
However, Ye Ersao only heard the first half of the sentence, and the latter could not be heard.
She was full of thoughts, Ye Jiao was really living a good life…
Unexplainably, her heart felt like it was being squeezed in pain.
Footnotes:
[1] Literal translation: not one drop of water can leak out. Referencing an airtight, rigorous argument.
[2] This is an idiom that describes someone being hearty and hale despite their years.
[3] Yamen = government office in feudal China.
[4] Cupping one's hand at someone is like a salute; usually the hands are cupped in obeisance or greeting.
Usually, when living through similar circumstances, they would be unable to discern which one of them was leading a better life than the others.
Nevertheless, the comparison still dreads them.
'Who was having a more fulfilling life than the other?' or 'Who was leading a devasting life than the other?' – such comparisons more often than not tend to greatly impact one's mind.
Though Ye Ersao was in a daze, the little Ye Bai failed to detect any peculiarity within her.
After all, a few matters were beyond the comprehension of a young and still half-grown Ye Bao. Usually, he would throw tantrums and was a glutton, which was gradually fostered by Ye Ersao's pampering and indulgence. Nonetheless, he wasn't a rotten one at the core.
He didn't wish for Ye Jiao to live with them because he would have to compete with her for his egg custard. However, today, when he chanced upon the beautifully dressed Ye Jiao on the street, with whom he used to live day and night, he couldn't help but clap in delight as he exclaimed, " Aunt is truly beautiful, as beautiful as a fairy."
His words weren't mere drivel. Today's Ye Jiao was indeed a far cry from her former self.
Even though she only had light makeup, she was born with good genetics. Not to mention, having been eating till she was full and having a lot of good sleep, she no longer looked emaciated with a pale yellow face as she was when living at Ye jia. Also, she was bedecked in new, bright, and well-tailored clothes. Just her robe alone was not something a mere ordinary household could afford.
With a hand stove carved with floral designs in her hand and a hairpin embellished with jade decorating her hair, although they weren't overly luxurious, anyone could discern at a glance that she was a furen of a wealthy household.
However, unbeknownst to him, such casual drivel hit Ye Ersao's sore spot, causing Ye Ersao to pinch Ye Bao's plump buttocks in a fit of rage.
Overwhelmed with pain and unable to understand what he misspoke, Ye Bao broke into a loud wail, feeling extremely wronged.
Embarrassed, Ye Ersao quickly covered his mouth and scurried away from the place. But Ye Bao was not well-behaved, causing Ye Ersao to trip and fall.
Though she was unscathed, her good clothes were stained with dirt and a tear appeared near her elbow, fueling her anger even more.
Turning her head around, she took a glance at the immortal-like Ye Jiao. She felt even more uncomfortable as if she was soaked in sour water from head to foot.
At this side, Ye Bao was still bawling, but Ye Ersao was no longer in the mood to chide him, only wishing to escape from that place. As if she would be even more embarrassed if she stayed even a moment longer.
Completely unaware of someone's arrival and departure, Ye Jiao hoisted herself into the ox cart, which then headed towards Dong-shi's pharmacy store.
Dong-shi's husband, Yan Li was the shopkeeper of the pharmacy. Coincidentally, today, Yan Li happened to be away to replenish the stock in the store, leaving only one attending doctor to be in the pharmacy.
And fortuitously, this attending doctor happened to be Doctor Li, Qi Yun's attending doctor. Ye Jiao and Doctor Li exchanged pleasantries before she and Dong-shi walked further into the rear yard to take a look at the medicinal ingredients.
As it was a pharmacy, all the medicines were categorically sorted on a big shelf with multiple small and big drawers. All the drawers had the names of the medicines stored within them for easy access.
Contrary to her casualness in the wine shop earlier, Ye Jia carefully surveyed them.
As she examined them, she inquired about their medicinal properties in depth, a few of those even Dong-shi wasn't aware of. Fortunately, Doctor Li was readily available to assist them, making their master satisfied.
Only when Ye Jia ensconced herself on the chair by a table, perfectly contented with her study, did Dong-shi release a sigh of relief, as she poured her tea, "Jiao niang, you truly seem to be fond of medicinal ingredients! That's perfect, moving forward whenever you are free, you can drop by to take a stroll. If I come across any rare medicinal herbs, we can examine them together."
Her suggestion was truly in line with Ye Jiao's intentions. She readily nodded her head in affirmation as a bright smile blossomed across her face.
At that moment, the servant carried a bowl of medicine to Dong-shi, who upon receiving it, examined its temperature, and chugged it down with a crease in her brows.
Observing her, Ye Jiao inquired, "Chunlan, are you suffering from any illness?"
Dong-shi handed the bowl back to the servant. Waiting till the latter has left, she softly explained, "I am not having any illness. Two years ago, I suffered from a miscarriage after an accidental fall. Since then, I have been unable to conceive. Hence the medicine. Nonetheless, despite consuming it for a while now, I still haven't been blessed with children."
Though Dong-shi recounted it on a lighter note, the melancholy and the grievances she had been suffering still spilled out.
Ye Jiao reached out and gently held Dong-shi's wrist, shut her eyes, as she began diagnosing her pulse. Indeed, she could sense the damage inflicted on her foundation. Nurturing one's foundation was not something that could be achieved within a short span. Even after two years of consumption of medicine, her condition hasn't fully improved.
Little Ginseng didn't have many friends. Dong-shi and her shared the same temperament and had the same fondness towards medicines, which naturally fostered a deeper bond between them.
This prompted the Little Ginseng to think more for her. Numerous prescriptions flitted across her brain. But, among them, there were a few ingredients that she had encountered in the past, but not after reincarnating as a human.
At this moment, Dong-shi seemed to have recalled something. Rising from her seat, she stepped out and soon came back with a basket in her hand.
Placing it on the table, she lifted the cloth covering it, unveiling a basketful of petals.
These petals didn't seem to be of the same flower, but of different varieties, constituting both petals of medicinal and common ornamental flowers.
Dong-shi, an avid learner of medicinal studies, was naturally aware of what kind could be mixed with the other. Thus, she partitioned the petals in the basket with the help of wooden boards by arranging them in a cross shape. With a smile, she added, "Jiao Niang, take these back."
Peering into the basket, Ye Jiao took a quick glimpse. A trace of perplexity appeared in her bright eyes, as she inquired: "Are these petals edible?"
"They aren't meant for consumption, rather they are meant to be added in the bath water." With a smile, she gestured at the petals, " All of these flower petals emit a pleasant fragrance. When added to the bath water, their fragrance suffuses your skin. You can give them a try."
This was a gift prepared by her for Ye Jiao. Unlike the liquor store, her family's pharmacy doesn't generate much income, leaving the medicinal ingredients as the only valuable commodity in the shop.
However, Dong-shi found it extremely inappropriate to give medicinal ingredients. After all, their store was under Qi Yun's supervision. If she gifted her medicinal ingredients, wouldn't it be tantamount to gifting the owner their own possessions?
After deep contemplation, Dong-shi recalled Ye Jiao's fondness for the medicinal flower she had previously gifted. Thus she decided upon the flower petals this time – beautiful and aromatic flowers could never go wrong.
With an appreciative smile, Ye Jia pulled the basket closer to her. While fiddling with the petals, her thoughts flew to how many ways a human can enjoy their bath. She couldn't help but muse about the profoundness of being human.
Just then, her fingers momentarily paused upon a bright red flower petal.
The shape of that flower petal was a bit different from the rest – it was pointed at both sides, but thicker in the middle. It had a smooth and soft touch, giving a pleasant tactile sensation.
And Ye Jia happened to be familiar with the flower of this unique petal. The flower was known as 'Fengyuan'. They predominantly grow in aquatic habitats dense with flora, and could only survive when they are well-soaked in water. And the use of this medicinal flower happened to be apt for…Dong-shi's situation.
In the past, the little fox, in her pursuit of conceiving with the scholar, had experimented with this flower, among many of her tricks. And to her astonishment, she was met with a positive outcome.
Could this be considered Dong-shi's wish coming true?
At that instance, Ye Jiao, in a daze, realized that ever since she had become a human, her luck seemed to have exponentially increased.
Pinching the petal with her fingers, Ye Jiao carefully scrutinized it yet again. Only when she was sure of its identity, did she begin saying to Dong-shi, "Can you give me a few flowers of the plant? I will return them to you once I have cultivated them."
Though in the past, Ye Jia had never mentioned returning the medicinal herbs she had been given, she had to give this one back to Ding-shi.
Not to mention, this flower has a nourishing effect on women. If it could be cultivated in her yard, it would surely prove to be a valuable asset.
Slightly taken aback, Dong-shi leaned in to take a clearer look, "These are the petals of a Jixiang flower, and are arduous to cultivate. If you want, I have a few pots of them, you can take them back."
Ye Jiao nodded with a bright smile.
The name was aptly chosen, the flower was indeed an auspicious one.
Realizing that it wasn't early anymore, with Liu pozi in her toe, who had two pots in her hands, Ye Jiao bid her farewell with a basket and stepped out of the pharmacy.
Taking a seat in the ox cart, Ye Jiao began fiddling with the Jixiang flowers, which seemed to have weathered and lacked vitality.
Dreading that the petals might fall off, she refrained from touching them anymore. Upon going back, she was intending to get a vat and nourish them back to their full health.
Turning her head, she gave the flower basket another glance. Sniffing a few petals, she found their aroma truly pleasant – at the least their aroma was far more pleasing than those of rogue she had previously used.
The Little Ginseng placed the petals back in the basket, intending to use them in her bath back home, and see if she could truly make herself fragrant.
Reclining against a soft cushion, Ye Jiao reached out her arm and pulled the curtain open, to take a look outside.
Teeming with pedestrians on the footpath, and vendors selling an array of goods on either side of the road, the town was indeed more livelier than the villages in the countryside.
However, Ye Jiao's gaze was affixed on the signboards of the shops on both sides.
Just like any other beginner in learning to read a new language, currently, Ye Jia's interest was captured in trying to read new words.
This one is "Hou'er Alley Pancake", that one is "Madame Wang's Tofu Shop", and there was a ready-made clothing store…
Abruptly seeming to have recalled something, Ye Jiao bellowed the cart driver sitting at the front, "Please stop for a moment."
When the ox carriage stopped, Ye Jiao pushed open the curtain, intending to get down.
Liu pozi slightly straightened her back and reached out to help her, "Second Young Mistress, is there anything you want to buy? I can go for you while you take a rest in the carriage. "
Shaking her head, Ye Jiao nimbly got down from the carriage, without replying to her.
Liu pozi quickly followed behind her, while instructing the carriage driver to wait patiently and not wander off too far. Upon turning her head, she saw that Ye Jiao had already entered a shop.
Though the Liu pozi hadn't learned many characters, looking at the two display clothing pieces hanging just outside of the shop, she could discern that this was a ready-to-wear clothing shop.
She hurriedly entered the shop and silently kept pace with Ye Jiao.
Ye Jiao was scrutinising around, seemingly looking for something.
The shopkeeper was a sharp-eyed one. It was common for the shopkeepers to have acute observation skills. From a first glance, he was sure that Ye Jiao was a mistress of a rich household.
Just the hairpin adorning her hair was enough to affirm his guess and her status.
Swiftly putting on a big smile, he cupped his hands and respectfully greeted her, '"Furen, are you looking to buy new clothes for winter? The shopfront of our shop might not be big, nevertheless the craftsmanship at our shop has been passed down from our ancestors. I have been working here my entire life. Whether it is our embroidery or knitting work, I assure you that they would be to your satisfaction, furen."
When Ye Jiao heard such a long and enthusiastic introduction of the shopkeeper in one breath, half of the words went straight out of her other ear. Anyways, she wasn't planning to buy for herself, thus she directly stated her interest, "I am looking for fur coats."
Fur coat? This is surely going to be a big deal!
Beside himself with enthusiasm, the shopkeeper trotted to pull open the curtain, revealing an array of fur coats with elegant designs. Furen, take a look at these. These fashionable and elegant pieces are on trend at the moment. Even the young ladies and furen(s) in the capital are following this style. "
Without even giving as much as a glance at them, Ye Jiao lightly shook her head, "I am not buying for myself, it's for my husband."
Upon hearing her, Liu pozi gazed at Ye Jiao in astonishment.
It wasn't that she was sceptical about the relationship between Qi Yun and his wife. Instead, over the past few years, having witnessed Fang-shi spending everything on herself every time, Liu Pozi found it novel when suddenly faced with Ye Jia, who was buying clothes for her husband.
On the other hand, the big smile on the shopkeeper's face remained the same. He had been doing this business for a long time, and had a way with his words, "Just from a glance, one can discern that the furen is a virtuous one. Whoever married you is truly a fortunate person." Walking to the other side, he opened another curtain, displaying a row of fur coats for men.
As the winter has just arrived, winter-wear was selling fast.
Recently, with the imperial court having expanded the trading domain, the common people found themselves with more disposable income in their hands. And, winter clothes are usually difficult for ordinary folks to make by themselves. Thus with the increasing foot traffic in the apparel stores and growing demand for the clothes, the assortment of ready-to-wear garments have increased in the market.
The shopkeeper, however, was fond of gauging his customers' preferences. When his customers were common people, he would introduce them to a variety of heavy and thick robes in the shop. And if his customers were wealthy ones, he would show them the expensive embroidered brocade cloaks.
Having said that, he seldom showed fur coats to the customers for obvious reasons. Firstly, because the fur was hard to maintain. Even a slight dust or small tear would render it unusable. Second, the price of this fur coat was not cheap. Even with a year's worth of savings, common people may not be able to afford this coat. Even wealthy households would use this for about a decade once they bought them. Thus, usually he wouldn't show these coats.
However, seeing Ye Jiao specifically ask for one, a smile bloomed on the shopkeeper's face, as he enthusiastically showed her all the pieces.
In the end, Ye Jiao settled on the black fur coat. The texture of the coat was extremely good, giving a pleasurable textile experience. Ye Jiao had personally tried it on and immediately felt warm and cosy. Not only that, it was large enough for Qi Yuan to wear.
Seeing that she was satisfied with this piece, Liu pozi asked the shopkeeper, "How much is this fur coat?"
With an even more brilliant smile on his face, the shopkeeper stretched out three fingers, "Three silver tales. Nonetheless, the price I offered is quite low for this. Also, if the fitting is not right, our shop will help you with adjustments. If the adjustments are minor, we won't charge you even a copper coin. "
Three silver taels were equivalent to three thousand copper coins, an amount that ordinary people would be unable to save in a year.
However, with a handful of savings, Ye Jiao can afford these three silver teals.
Just then, Liu pozi leaned closer to Ye Jio, and whispered in her ear, "Second Young Madam, should I negotiate the price down? "
Ye Jiao was, thus, exposed to the concept of 'negotiating the price down' for the first time.
Fortunately, one of Ye Jiao's greatest merits was that she was receptive to others' suggestions. She nodded her head. Brimming with curiosity, she spectated from the sidelines as Liu pozi stepped forward and negotiated with the shopkeeper.
Although Liu pozi tended to be inconspicuous in the presence of her master, and wasn't fond of showing off, she has always been efficient and decisive when in action.
Usually, the products were much pricier in the shops than outside, inflating the final retail price. Even though the imperial court regulated the prices, in business, who wasn't fond of increasing their profits even by little?
Having observed the shopkeeper's eloquence and glib-tongue, that exuded shrewdness, Liu pozi was convinced that the three silver taels was not the actual price of the coat.
Nonetheless, negotiating a price was also a skill. One can't begin by aggressively quoting the lowest prices. And above all, you can't let the other person catch your eagerness to buy. Rather, one ought to strategically guide the negotiation with a mix of reality and exaggerated claims, where one party claims to not buy and the other party refuses to sell at the quoted price. Ultimately, it is a battle of endurance, boiling down to see who gives in first, leaving the spectating Ye Jiao stunned.
Finally, the negotiation was settled at the final price of 1 silver teal and 8 qian. Ye Jiao looked at Liu pozi with newfound admiration.
Bringing Liu pozi along was the best decision, she truly saved money!
With a modest smile, Liu pozi moved and silently stood behind Ye Jiao again.
Although the shopkeeper had cut down the price by almost half, and feigned to be distressed, he wasn't that troubled at all in his heart. Even with this price, he believed he had enough profit margin.
Ye Jiao paid him with a few silver ingots, requiring the shopkeeper to weigh the silver and exchange the balance with lower denominations, which was also a procedure.
Thus, he had someone escort Ye Jiao and Liu pozi to drink tea in the side room. Glancing at the served top-quality Longjing tea, Liu pozi felt a pang of regret in her heart. It seemed she hadn't bargained enough. However, she didn't let her inner feelings show in her face. Having earned praise from her master already, and didn't have to further dig troubles for herself.
Ye Jiao held the teacup but didn't drink it. She simply clasped them in her hands, warming them.
As the two were waiting in the side room, two people stepped into the store from outside. They seemed to be from a nearby academy as their attire resembled that of the common scholars. They were soon received by the young attendants in the shop.
The two were chatting while looking around the store, when the sounds of gong echoed twice from the outside.
The deafening sounds were loud and clear, making everyone around impossible to ignore.
A sharp voice followed the gong sounds, "The battle at the border witnessed triumphant victory. Extremely pleased, the Emperor has granted amnesty across the nation and has reduced the taxes by 20% for all!" Thereafter, two more deafening gong sounds echoed, repeating the same words from before!
The two scholars, who were busy chatting and looking around just a few seconds ago, dashed to watch the excitement outside. Even the shopkeeper, who was settling the accounts, trotted to the shop entrance, and listened with rapt attention. Once he had listened to the announcement clearly, to Ye Jioa's astonishment, knelt right then and there with a loud cry, "The heaven's grace is vast and mighty as the ocean!"
The utterly dumbfounded subconsciously reached out to grab hold of Liu pozi's wrist.
Liu pozi immediately comforted her,"Second Young Madam, don't panic. The shopkeeper's gratitude is not due to heaven's grace, but because of the last part of the announcement. "
For common folks, the emperor is high above and far away. Even though victory in the battles at the border was joyously celebrated, their contentment was but superficial. Only the families, who have one of their own serving in the military, were genuinely delighted over the victory from the bottom of their hearts. While to the rest of the masses, the benefits granted at the end were what delighted them the most.
Granting amnesty across the nation and reducing the taxes by 20% for all!
For businessmen, 20% tax reduction meant significantly higher profits. The shopkeeper's prostration wasn't his appreciation towards the Emperor's amnesty, but towards his future business prospects.
Upon listening to Liu pozi's words, a bright smile bloomed on Ye Jiao's face.
Her husband was also in business, and thus was truly a joyous event for them. She couldn't wait to share this news with her husband upon return.
At the same time, a not-so-distant memory resurfaced within Ye Jiao's mind: Ye Dalang ,who seemed to have also gone to serve in the military many years ago, was yet to return. His whereabouts were unknown to her. However, if he was stationed at the border, with the recent victory there, she wondered if he would come back alive.
Amid the clamorous sounds of gong and hubbub, Ye Jiao tried to recall any memories within the depths of her mind pertaining to Ye Dalang's new, but to no avail.
Once the yamen workers had walked past them, the shopkeeper got on his feet and dusted off his pants before happily walking back to settle Ye Jiao's bills.
He placed two strings of copper coins, and headed to Ye Jiao. He didn't forget to send them off with a few auspicious words, hoping that the latter would patronise his store again in the future.
With the fur coat neatly wrapped in a package, Ye Jaio walked out of the store, and stepped into the ox carriage. This time, the ox carriage made its way back to the Qi residence without stopping anywhere again.
When Ye Jiao reached Qi residence, Qi Yan was sitting in his study. A wrinkle appeared in between his brows, as he read through the letter passed by Steward Song to him via an errand boy.
Qi Yun was acutely aware of the person who was behind the incident at the store earlier that day. Thus, he had already made the necessary preparations way ahead of the time. The group he had hired was a trained one and was quite expensive. However, considering the incident, it was a worthwhile investment, proving all those people, who had thought it was a waste of money, wrong.
However, the hired trained group coming in handy this early was beyond Qi Yun's expectation. He dreaded that he would have to make these people stay longer, for more and more similar troubles would pop up in future with the growing business.
At the end of the letter, when Qi Yun read through the part Steward Song praising Ye Jiao, a slight smile unconsciously appeared on his lips.
He understood his wife's personality well – simple, pure and straightforward. He believed Steward Song had miscomprehended Ye Jiao's words. She simply must have wanted to get rid of those people, nothing more. However, he didn't plan to clear Steward Song's misunderstandings. He wanted his subordinates to respect Ye Jaio from the bottom of their hearts, even if it was the result of misunderstandings. The more they revered her, the more obedient they would be to her.
Qi Yun grabbed a pen and wrote a reply back to Steward Song before handing it to the errand boy. Just then, Tiezhi entered the study room and reported, "Second Young Master, Second Young Mistress has returned."
The solemn expression adorning Qi Yun's face quickly transitioned to a gentle smile. He quickly grabbed a thick robe and put on himself, as he hurriedly left the room with Tiezhi closely following him.
Just like his usual routine, Tiezhi followed Qi Yun till the courtyard and departed. Walking into the courtyard, when Qi Yun gently pushed the door open, he was greeted by warm air, gentle and cozy as spring.
Usually, when no one was in the room, the burning charcoal in the room would be extinguished to avoid any unforeseen accidents. However, perceiving the warmth in the room, it was evident that someone had come and warmed the room.
Having spent many years alone, Qi Yun thought he had become accustomed to it. However, after marrying Ye Jiao, he realised he was also but an ordinary person.
He craved warmth, enjoyed living, and above all else, enjoyed being in someone's company.
Just a mere thought that someone was waiting for him in the house was enough to make him stand at the door and enjoy the feeling.
Closing the door and blocking the cold air from seeping in, Qi Yun placed the hand warmer on the table. Just then the basket and the package placed on the table caught his eye.
When going out today, Qi Yun had asked Ye Jiao to take some silver along with her. Thus, he presumed that these were something she had bought.
Qi Yun didn't look at them again and walked towards the charcoal stove to warm his chilled hands before entering the inner room.
At the moment, Ye Jiao was moving the folding screen. Hearing the footsteps behind her she turned around to see Qi Yao walking in.
When the Little Ginseng caught sight of Qi Yao's figure, she trotted to him. With a cheerful smile on her lips and bright gleam in her eyes, she excitedly exclaimed, "Husband, I have good news for you!"
The corners of Qi Yun's lips curved into a light smile,"What good news?"
Ye Jiao immediately told him about the announcement made at the street today.
In fact, Qi Yun was already informed about the announcement by the errand boy. And tax reduction truly had a great impact for him.
Just a while ago, he had made a series of calculations, and 20% tax reduction truly saved a significant amount. With the opening of a new store under his management, this extra 20% money can be used to deal with a lot of affairs that might have been difficult otherwise.
Nevertheless, after hearing Ye Jiao's words, Qi Jiao, pretending to have not known about it. With a smile, he replied, "This is truly joyous news. Not only has our new store opened today, but we also received news about the imperial court's victory, symbolising a double happy occasion. Just the pigeon soup that was initially prepared will not suffice. I will have someone cook eggs."
Ye Jiao followed, "I don't want boiled eggs, I want fried ones."
Qi Yun pinched her earlobe softly as he turned around and beckoned Xiao Su to the window, saying: "Go ask the small kitchen to prepare fried eggs, chicken soup…."
Xiao Su's heart skipped a beat. The look Qi Yun had when gazing at her Xiao Hei as he wished to have it stewed was still fresh in her mind.
She had a premonition that this time for the chicken soup it was certainly her Xia Hei's turn to go into the pot!
The feathers on Xiao Hei's tail haven't fully grown back yet!
Ye Jiao softly interjected Qi Yao while shaking his hand, "We already have pigeon soup, and will not be able to drink another chicken soup."
A gentle smile yet again resurfaced on Qi Yao's lips as he gently replied, "Alright, we will do as you say." Turning his head to Xia Su by the window, he continued, "Then add sugar cakes. We should celebrate this happy occasion with a sweet."
Relief washed over Xiao Su's anxious heart, feeling grateful to have kept her Xia Hei's life. She thought though the Second Young Master was quite scary, the Second Young Mistress was kind-hearted, a stark contrast to the former, growing her fondness for the latter.
Ye Jiao added in whisper, " Husband, I also want to eat magnolia slices."
Qi Yun immediately added: "Let the small kitchen also add magnolia slices."
Xiao Su noted all the dishes, and once making sure that there were no further additions, she trotted to the small kitchen to pass on the menu.
Though Ye Jiao couldn't wait to have a fulfilling supper, she didn't forget about the pending task she had to do.
She let go of Qi Yao's hand and asked him with a smile, "Husband, Can you help me to bring the basket on the table?"
Ye Jiao seldomly asked Qi Yao's help, thus he promptly went to get the basket.
However, earlier when he had placed the handstove, he had accidentally placed it on the corner of the cloth covering the basket. Thus, when he picked the basket up, the cloth was pulled off, unveiling the contents in it.
The petals were carefully chosen by Dong-shi after much deliberation and were known for their delightful aroma. As soon as the cloth fell off, a delicate fragrance wafted in the room.
Qi Yun, who had no idea what they were for, asked her, "Jiao Niang, what is this basket of petals for?"
However, as soon as he turned sound, to his astonishment, Qi Yun turned around with the basket in hand, the sight of Ye Jiao, who had already removed her outer coat, and was in the middle of unfastening the belt on her skirt, entered his sight, followed by her crisp and clear reply, "To use in the bath. "
Knowing that she was going to have a pigeon soup in the evening, Ye Jiao had someone fetch water to have an early bath no sooner than she returned, lest it would delay her supper time. Eating has become the most significant purpose and objective in her life.
Once the room was warm enough, Ye Jiao had the water fetched behind a screen. She planned to drop a few petals of flowers into her bath water once Qi Yun helped her bring the basket.
However, Qi Yun seemed to be taking longer than expected. Finding it odd, she turned around to notice him standing still at the entrance of the inner room. His eyes seemed to have zeroed in on her. But as she turned around, his gaze moved elsewhere.
Her gaze fell on his red ears and then onto the burning charcoal in the room, wondering if the room had become too hot.
Releasing her grip from the belt, Ye Jiao stepped towards him and took the basket from his hands before raising her head with a smile, "Husband, you can go and do your work."
Qi Yun stole a quick glance at her from the corner of his eye but averted his gaze again, whispering softly, "I'm done with my tasks. I was planning to check the accounts in the room. Will I bother you?"
"No, you can go ahead and check."
Utterly oblivious, Ye Jiao walked to the rear of the screen with the basket.
However, in the next second, her head popped from behing the screen. "Husband, there is something that I have bought for you and have placed on the table. The shopkeeper said they can be returned for alterations if they don't fit."
Only after seeing Qi Yun nod his head, did she retrieve her head behind the screen once again.
Not long after, a few pieces of garments were hung upon the screen as the two belts in them swayed to and from gently. Not daring to look at them any longer, Qi Yun briskly stode to the desk in the outer room, opened the account book and grabbed a pen. He consciously took a deep breath to suppress the tumultuous thoughts, intending to focus on the accounts.
"Splash."
The splashing sounds of water completely assailed his auditory senses, causing the ink to almost drop on the accounts.
Still oblivious to Qi Yun's wandering thoughts, Ye Jiao picked a few flower petals to sprinkle into the bathtub, enjoying the soothing fragrance while bathing. Even then, she couldn't help but ask, "My lord, are you busy?"
Qi Yun had already put down his pen. His mind was not on the accounts right now; making mistakes in the numbers would be troublesome. Hearing Ye Jiao's words, he replied gently, "Not busy. What is it?"
"I overheard them outside talking about an amnesty being granted for the whole country. What does an amnesty across the land mean?"
Qi Yun had already grown accustomed to his wife's inquisitive nature, always asking why things were the way they were. Fortunately, he enjoyed explaining things to her, so he began carefully elaborating, "The court, during moments of joyous occasions, chooses to pardon some criminals. This act of absolving the criminals of their sentences is phrased as amnesty across the nation."
The splashing sound water stopped, as Ye Jiao voiced her confusion, "They pardon criminals during joyous occasions?"
"It depends on the circumstances. Whether it happens or not depends on the ruling emperor's decision," he replied gently. What he said was an euphemism. To put it colloquially, it meant that if the emperor wanted to grant amnesty, he could do so based on his whims.
Falling into a moment of deep contemplation, the Little Ginseng thought to herself, 'The Emperor indeed indisputably held the highest authority!' Nonetheless, she couldn't help but ask aloud, "But, wouldn't condoning heinous criminals like the ones today cause chaos?!"
Qi Yun smiled, thinking his wife was truly pure-hearted, considering a few local ruffians to be heinous. He further explained, "In our country, there are ten unpardonable crimes in the case of a general amnesty."
These ten unpardonable crimes were not generic; rather they specifically refer to acts like rebellion, treason, and filial impiety among few similar other crimes. Even if the amnesty was declared, those who had committed these heinous acts would not be pardoned.
Although they called it amnesty across the nation, it mostly applied to those who had committed lesser offences. The truly wicked and malicious individuals would remain incarcerated.
However, as the topic grew somewhat heavy, Qi Yun didn't want to elaborate too much to avoid scaring his wife. So, he changed the subject, "Jiao Niang, what did you buy for me?" He walked to the table and opened the package.
A black fur coat lay quietly inside, and the moment Qi Yun saw it, he fell silent.
Ye Jiao couldn't see his expression behind the screen. In a cheerful tone, she replied, "The weather is getting colder. Although you said I can buy anything I want, I am not susceptible to the cold as you are. Your health requires special attention, so this fur coat should have been bought earlier. Try it on and see if it fits?"
See if it fits…
Qi Yun wanted to speak, but when he opened his mouth, he didn't know what to say.
Although he had been confined to home due to illness for a long time, he was nevertheless abreast with the prices in the market as he managed the accounts.
'A fur coat of this quality would have cost a considerable amount of silver.'
Although he had handed the silver to Ye Jiao in the name of managing the finances, for Qi Yun, once the silver was given, he never thought of taking it back.
This time was no different; Qi Yun instructed Ye Jiao to take some money with her so she could buy something, but she ended up bringing back a fur coat for him.
Although it was money he had earned, it still warmed his heart inexplicably, as if something in him had melted.
Gently caressing the fur coat, Qi Yun picked it up, and put it on with utmost care. He kneaded his slightly choked throat and finally spoke, "It fits, perfectly. Jiao niang, you've chosen a wonderful coat."
Ye Jiao felt delighted; as long as it fit, that was enough. The town was so far away, and altering the coat would be troublesome. Now, with this coat, Qi Yun wouldn't have to keep wearing his somewhat baggy robe all the time and this winter would be much warmer for him.
His remark boosted a sense of pride within Ye Jiao, "Husband, I think I am awfully lucky." Without an iota of modesty, She wittily praised herself for buying the right clothes.
Qi Yun, wearing the fur coat, remained frozen as his gaze fell on the screen. Even though he knew he couldn't see the person behind it, he focused intently for quite some time. Stroking his slightly sore nose, he softly breathed out a sigh.
"Jiao Ninag…"
After putting on the fur coat, Qi Yun became unwilling to take it off. He continued wearing it until Ye Jiao finished bathing and came out in her undergarments, only to find Qi Yun still wrapped in the warm fur coat.
This startled Ye Jiao. The room's charcoal fire was burning brightly, warming the room to an adequate temperature. Even if she was just wearing undergarments and an outer robe, she didn't feel cold. Yet, here was Qi Yun, wrapped in a thick fur coat; wasn't he going to sweat?
Ye Jiao hurriedly said to him, "Take it off quickly; it's too hot. If you sweat and catch a draft, it won't be good."
Qi Yun wanted to say he didn't sweat much, but he didn't deny it either. He was indeed warm, and with Ye Jiao already unfastening the buttons of the coat, he simply opened his arms and let her help him remove his clothes.
After hanging the fur coat properly, Ye Jiao took her handkerchief and wiped Qi Yun's face. "Are you feeling hot?"
With a smile, Qi Yun replied, "Not hot, just warm."
This confused the Y0ung Ginseng Spirit, "Aren't both the same?"
Qi Yun wanted to explain, but upon thinking about it, he couldn't figure out how to explain it. Instead, he gently held her wrist and said, "There are different, entirely different."
Right at that time, Xiao Su stepped to the door and notified them that dinner was ready before asking if they could set the table.
Promptly acquiescing, Ye Jaio ambled towards the table along with Qi Yun with her tresses draped over her shoulders.
The dinner was exceptionally sumptuous. Qi Yun even had Tiezhi deliver a portion of sweet pastries to Father Qi and Qi Zhao. While the leftovers were given to Tiezhi and Xiao Su to share with the others. Every child was fond of sweets at the core of their hearts. Furthermore, sweet pastries were not something they could enjoy all the time. Thus, at Qi Yun's generosity, the duo cheerfully accepted them and left, leaving only Qi Yun and Ye Jiao in the room.
Qi Yun only had a light supper and finished quickly, but he didn't leave the table. Instead, with a warm smile, he remained seated as he gazed at the happily eating Ye Jiao.
The Young Ginseng Spirit also had a particular fondness for sweet pastries. As soon as she took a bite, the crisp outer layer and the contrasting soft, fluffy filling filled her mouth with the delectable aroma of glutinous rice, making her unable to resist them. They may not be as exquisite as other finely crafted pastries, but she couldn't stop eating them.
Qi Yun ladled a scoop of scrambled eggs and a small portion of greens into her bowl, saying, "These pastries are made by mixing sugar syrup in the dough before frying them in the oil. Although they are very sweet and delicious, they can produce excessive heat in the body. Have some other dishes as well. "
Ye Jiao obediently put the greens into her mouth, with her eyes on Qi Yun. After swallowing her food, she remarked, "Xianggong, you know a lot of things."
From the trivialities of daily life to the social skills and worldly affairs outside, he seems to know about them all. He even possessed knowledge of the recipes, as if there was nothing that he wasn't aware of.
Qi Yun then served her another helping of greens, saying, "Reading a lot of books enables one to acquire more knowledge. If Jiao Niang is interested, I can slowly teach you how to read in the future."
Ye Jiao promptly agreed to his suggestion and finished the sweet pastry in her hand. Feeling about seventy percent full, she stopped eating.
Though sometimes she felt gluttonous, she never allowed herself to overeat and always stopped at the right amount.
After drinking a bowl of pigeon soup, Ye Jiao smiled contentedly.
After the meal, it was usually the time when Qi Yun would study. However, today he stayed in the inner room and let Ye Jiao lean against him as he used a comb to brush her long hair.
Ye Jiao's raven hair was exceptionally well-maintained, giving them a beautiful and luscious sheen. Its texture mimicked that of an expensive silk brocade.
Ensconced by the charcoal stove, Qi Yun helped Ye Jiao towel-dry her semi-damp hair while casually chatting, "Jiao Niang, the fur coat you bought me was true to my liking. I will surely use it often."
Languidly leaning against Qi Yun, Ye Jiao nudged his arm as she replied, "However, you'll have to take it off once spring comes. It'll be too hot otherwise."
Qi Yun smiled and nodded in agreement.
Feeling drowsy, just as Ye Jiao was yawning, she seemed to have recalled something, "Xianggong, the Sun family seemed to be anything but good."
Qi Yun preferred refraining from speaking about external matters with Ye Jiao. However, he was planning to expand his business in the near future. As long as the business prospers, in the days to come, there will be no shortage of people wishing to get acquainted with Ye Jiao for mixed reasons.
Thus, Qi Yun felt he had to explain a few matters clearly to her.
As he gently wiped her hair ends, he slowly began explaining, "Typically, it is unlikely for any troublemakers to reveal themselves. What's more, for years the Sun family has been in the money-lending business, making it impossible for their business to contradict our wine shop, it can't be them. Steward Song has already found the identity of the perpetrators – it's the Cai family.
Ye Jiao blinked her eyes and asked, "Who is that?"
"They also run a wine shop. Having been in the wine industry, it's not uncommon for them to have animosity toward us." Qi Yun replied while picking up a comb and gently combing her hair down.
However, there was a hint of indifference in his eyes.
The Cai family had made a significant name for themselves in the town, but their methods were inferior and crude.
Qi Yun didn't think highly of them. It would be best of the two worlds, if they could coexist peacefully, for when running a business one should know to show benevolence in their actions and foster harmonious relationships. Yet, they had to come and provoke him, blocking his path.
He can't have them hover around him always and irk him. Since they had to be a stumbling block, he had to come up with a plan to fling them aside.
Slightly downtrodden, Ye Jiao said, "Xianggong, what you said makes sense. I was unable to think beyond the surface."
Soon, Qi Yun's focus was drawn to Ye Jiao's pursed lips, temporarily pulling his thoughts away from the business matters, "Fault doesn't lie with you either. Scheming and malicious ones just harbor too many sinister motives. They are the ones to blame."
His words cheered up her downtrodden heart, regaining the beaming smile on her lips. As they continued to chat, sleep came to Ye Jiao.
Usually, she wouldn't have felt sleepy early at this time. However, today she had too much happening. Even though she was using an ox cart, her trip down the town had left her tired. Coupled with a warm hair bath, she gradually drifted into a slumber, still leaning against Qi Yun.
Qi Yun continued to sit upright, as he let her lean against him, while gently drying her hair.
Once he was done drying her hair, Qi Yun didn't wake her but remained gazing at her.
After what seemed a long while, a soft whisper laced with amusement yet honesty left the man's lips, "In reality, I am the fortunate one."
She always remarked she was lucky, but Qi Yun distinctly believed that he was the fortunate one.
Meeting such a lovely wife was his stroke of luck.
The next morning, Ye Jiao woke up in Qi Yun's embrace. Both were still wearing yesterday's clothes. It was obvious that he didn't wish to disturb her, thus letting her lean against him.
This time, they weren't sleeping under separate blankets but were sharing one, sleeping close to one another.
Ye Jiao was an early bird. Thus, as soon as she opened her eyes, the first thing that greeted her was Qi Yun's magnified face.
'En, even with his eyes closed, Xiangging is exceptionally handsome!'
But hold on, she slept in his embrace?
The once slightly drowsy Young Ginseng Spirit was startled awake at once. Without lifting the quilt, she clutched Qi Yun's wrist.
Young ginseng spirit: little ginseng will be changed to young ginseng spirit.
When she slept by Qi Yun's side the last time, the internal heat in Qi Yun's body shot up beyond normal range. Consequently, he had to stay indoors for almost a month to restore his health. Ye Jiao didn't want him to go through the same again.
Beset by anxiety, ignoring all the irrelevant thoughts, she pulled herself closer to him and held the man's wrist. Holding her breath, she cautiously began diagnosing his pulse.
Dreading that she might misdiagnose, Ye Jiao gently touched Qi Yun's neck and behind his ear, to re-diagnose his pulse.
It wasn't until she was certain that there was nothing abnormal about Qi Yun's condition did she stop her actions, and heaved a sigh of relief.
In retrospect, her reckless approach to treating Qi Yun's illness might have been the reason for the latter's high fever back then. However, currently, with the virtue of her care and cautious treatment over the course of the past few weeks, Qi Yun's foundation has improved significantly.
Having carefully diagnosed him, she was certain that he didn't have any abnormal symptoms even after spending a long night, making Ye Jiao feel genuinely relieved.
Feeling at ease, she finally relaxed her arms, allowing her soft body to plop directly on his.
She playfully poked Qi Yun's chin, thinking to herself before leaning her head against her chest, 'Fortunately, he hasn't shown any sign of developing a fever. Even if I had scared myself needlessly earlier, it's all for the best.'
Initially, she didn't detect anything abnormal. However, not long after, his heartbeat audibly sped up.
Assuming that she might be pressing on him uncomfortably, she propped herself up and carefully tucked him in the quilt.
Seeing that the sky had begun lightening up, Ye Jiao quietly got up and draped an outer coat, without waking Qi Yun up. She tiptoed out from behind the thick curtains, relit the charcoal brazier to warm the room, and only then, with her hair neatly tied, did she leave.
However, as soon as Ye Jiao stepped out of the inner room, the man lying on the bed opened his eyes.
Yesterday, with Ye Jiao leaning against him, Qi Yun couldn't bear to wake his wife, so he held her in his arms and lay down beside her. He intended to read his favorite novel but somehow ended up succumbing to dreamless and peaceful slumber.
There weren't any dreams or seizures. Qi Yun felt as if he had experienced the sweetness of a deep slumberland for the first time in his entire life.
Having had a good quality sleep, Qi Yun woke up slightly earlier than usual.
But as soon as he opened his eyes, he found himself embraced by warm, fragrant softness, causing his entire body to stiffen.
Although they shared the same quilt, Qi Yun acutely remembered that they had been lying flat and were separated by some distance before falling asleep. He couldn't fathom how he ended up like this during slumber, waking up with the woman holding his wrist.
Qi Yun didn't open his eyes; he couldn't quite determine if he feared awkwardness or simply desired to prolong this tenderness. In any case, he chose to pretend to be asleep, much to Ye Jiao's oblivion.
As the woman lay on him, Qi Yun could even catch a whiff of the sweet osmanthus fragrance emanating from her body.
Osmanthus fragrance again, even though they didn't eat any osmanthus-flavoured pastries yesterday… Ah, it must be the scented hair oil that Ye Jiao used—it had a hint of osmanthus scent. He had bought it for her as a gift.
Various distracting thoughts swirled in his mind, but his heart kept racing.
Even after Ye Jiao left, Qi Yun still felt his ears ringing with the thumping sound of his heartbeat, and his mouth strangely parched.
Taking a deep breath, Qi Yun sat up. However, when he lowered his head and lifted the quilt to take a peek inside, he quickly lay back down.
Qi Yun, the second son of the Qi family, prepared to stay put for a little longer so that Ye Jiao wouldn't suspect anything amiss.
In contrast to Qi Yun's nervousness, Ye Jiao appeared much more at ease and in good spirits.
The fact that they had spent a night together without him running a fever was a clear indication of his improving health!
Having been on the lookout for her husband's good health, with Qi Yun's body getting better and better, she was naturally delighted.
She tied her hair into a bun, put on a lilac-colored robe, and since it was still early, Ye Jiao went outside first to check on the medicinal herbs and flowers she had recently planted.
As soon as she stepped out, she saw Fang-shi standing by the courtyard gate with little Shitou in her arms.
Ye Jiao hadn't seen Fang-shi in a long time, thus as soon as their eyes met, she greeted her with a smile, "Good morning, Dasao." Then, she gestured towards the little Shitou, "Shitou, call aunt."
The little Shitou promptly replied in a crisp voice, "Aunt!"
Fang-shi also smiled and nodded in greeting Ye Jiao, appearing quite amiable, "Mother said that since we're approaching the end of the year, each family needs to discuss the preparations for the upcoming New Year. So, I came to pick you up to go with you."
Upon hearing this, Ye Jiao replied, "Dasao, please wait in the small room for a moment. Have some tea to warm up, and I'll join you shortly." With that, she swiveled around into the porch and called Xiao Su to come over.
Xiao Su hurriedly trotted before Ye Jiao and greeted, "Second Young Madam."
"Where did you put the two pots of Jixiang flowers we brought back yesterday?" Ye Jiao asked, scanning her surroundings.
Xiao Su pointed to the side room and said, "Those flowers looked quite delicate, so the Second Young Master asked me to put them in the side room to prevent them from freezing in the courtyard."
Hearing this, Ye Jiao felt relieved, fortunately, Xianggong was there to keep watch. She had momentarily forgotten about the Jiaxing flowers yesterday night, and if Qi Yun hadn't given instructions, she might have been unable to keep a single pot after a long night.
With Xiao Su following her, she made her way to the side room and squatted by the potted plants. Stroking the bright red petals of the Jixiang flowers, she found that they were still as withered as they were yesterday.
These flowers were supposed to grow in an aquatic environment, but being buried in soil made it difficult for them to thrive.
Standing up, Ye Jiao, looked around, and pointed to the large fish tank, "Can I use that?"
Xiao Su was about to ask what she needed it for but suddenly remembered how Qi Yun had flattened all the flower beds in the garden for Ye Jiao not long ago. She immediately nodded repeatedly, "Second Young Madam, you can use it for anything you want. Should I empty the fish tank for you?"
Momentarily taken aback by the inquiry, Ye Jiao smiled, "No need to empty it. What's the point of throwing them away? They might freeze to death in this weather. Just leave the fish in there. Later, you can take these two plants out, be gentle with the roots, shake off the soil, and put them in the fish tank. Also, don't leave the tank outside; if the water freezes, it won't be good. Keep it inside the house."
In the times when Ye Jiao was still a little ginseng spirit, Jixiang flowers were widely termed "Fengyuan Flower". They could thrive in water all by themselves without much effort. Just some sunlight and warm ambient temperature were enough for them to grow and reproduce wildly. Dong-shi failed to cultivate them because she had planted them in soil, similar to the previous stone sprout grass, which never survived for long when buried in the ground.
Mentally taking note of Ye Jiao's instructions, Xiao Su nodded in agreement. Lest she made Fang-shi wait for her long, after reminding her a couple of times, Ye Jiao quickly took out a dark violet cloak with a fur collar to wrap around herself and went out to find Fang-shi
However, Fang-shi was not waiting in the small room; she was strolling around Ye Jiao's courtyard, but as she strolled further in, she became more and more anxious.
Fang-shi had been to this courtyard before. She might not be a scholarly woman, but she enjoyed appreciating flowers and elegant scenery. Even though she feared Qi Yun greatly, she was certain of his aesthetic taste in garden arrangements.
In particular, there were two precious chrysanthemum flowers in Qi Yun's courtyard that were poetically touted as One side of these petals had a reddish-orange tint, while the other had bright yellow
One side of the petals was orange-red, while the other side was bright yellow, leaving a lasting impression on the awed spectators. particularly luxurious and beautiful. This day, while coming to pick up Ye Jiao before meeting Liu-shi, she was intending to feast her eyes with the elegance of their flowers before they withered.
To her surprise, she found that the courtyard had undergone a drastic transformation!
Not just the "Purple Dragon Rests on Snow," but all the other flowers were gone, replaced by some wildflowers that Fang-shi found peculiar. They had small blossoms and grew in strange shapes, hardly suitable for an elegant setting.
Gradually, Fang-shi's eyes became dull with distress. As soon as she saw Ye Jiao approaching she couldn't help but ask, "Jiao Niang, why has the style of the courtyard been changed?"
Stroking the hand warmer in hands, Ye Jiao replied gently, "When I said that I wanted to plant a few medicinal plants, xianggong had all the previous plants removed. "
"Removed?" Fang-shi's eyes widened as she gaped at Ye Jiao in astonishment, wondering why this well-behaved girl was being so squandering!
Ye Jiao continued, "Medicinal herbs have their benefits. Those flowers and plants might look nice, but they can't do much for Xianggong's health. It's better to grow something beneficial."
Overwhelmed with immense distress at the loss, Fang-shi's lost the usual restraint as she disapproved, "Erdi can just buy medicinal herbs from a medicinal store. Why go through all this trouble? Those flowers… were such valuable things, ah! It's a shame to have them removed."
If it was in the past, Ye Jiao would have simply brushed off her remarks with a smile. She never paid much attention to anyone other than Qi Yun. However, after witnessing the altercation in front of the liquor shop yesterday and hearing many things from Qi Yun at night, she had a renewed understanding of some matters.
She was fortunate to have a good husband. As for the others, the young ginseng spirit became cognizant that it was just like when encountering different spirits. A few might devour people, while others may save them. Not everyone could be wholeheartedly trusted!
Some things needed to be clearly stated.
Directly gazing into Fang-shi's eyes, Ye Jiao spoke in her usual gentle tone, "Dasao, this is Xianggong's courtyard and can rearrange it however he wants it to be. If Dasao is fond of looking at flowers, you can go to the garden; there are also beautiful flowers there."
The Young Ginseng Spirit was immensely baffled. According to Xianggong's words previously, all the affairs in their own courtyard were their personal business. She couldn't help but wonder why Dasao was feeling distressed and upset over this?!
However, Fang-shi, having been accustomed to Ye Jiao's gentle demeanor, didn't pay too much heed to her words. Coincidentally, just then, Shitaou, awed by the beauty of nearby plum blossoms, exclaimed that they were so pretty and insisted that he wanted to pick them and gift them to his mother and aunt.
His playful mischief made the two women break into chuckles, distracting them completely and soon made them forget about the earlier conflict regarding the courtyard style. The two sisters-in-law leisurely and harmoniously ambled toward Liu-shi's courtyard.
Liu-shi had invited her two daughters-in-law to discuss upcoming new year's preparations.
With the new year gradually approaching, many things needed to be prepared in the household.
Not to mention, the year-end bonus for the tenants, just the expenses for organizing a banquet, buying fireworks and firecrackers, and having new clothes made for everyone among many others demands a constant flow of silver.
The Qi family was undoubtedly a rich household. However, they had always been kind-hearted and never treated their tenants harshly. They rewarded the employees generously as well. As a rich household, inevitably there will be many areas that need to be organized from top to bottom. All the expenses were usually taken from the accounts.
Usually, they were never stingy with their own people, providing them with everything they required. Even though there is a constant influx of silver, with all the expenses, the outflow is also quite big.
Liu-shi twirled the Buddhist prayer beads in her hand, her eyes shifting between Ye Jiao and Fang-shi. Gently, she began speaking, "This year we witnessed many happy occasions. Erlang has married a wife, Shitou also growing healthily, and both our fields and liquor store are thriving."
Ye Jiao had a smile on her face, while Fang-shi was inwardly contemplating trying to figure out her mother-in-law's words. She was certain that her mother-in-law wouldn't have called them just to say these good words to them without any reason. Thus, she pretended to be teasing Shitou with the served light refreshments. However, her ears were wide open, carefully listening to what Liu-shi was about to say.
Liu-shi continued, "However, next year, we are planning to expand both the farms and liquor shops. The silver in the accounts might not be enough. Yesterday, your father-in-law and I discussed it. Since the situation at home has improved and is better, we should organize a bigger banquet for this new year. Nevertheless, we will be needing more silver to add a few more tables. Apart from the money taken from the accounts, will your two branches be willing to contribute extra? We can split the amount based on the year-end income, with each branch contributing a portion of the amount. For every twenty units of the income earned, you can contribute one unit. How does that sound?"
As it was about household matters, Liu-shi first sought the opinion of the two daughters-in-law.
Ye Jiao thought the suggestion made sense. Over the past couple of days, Qi Yun had gradually shared the family's situation with her. Moreover, they were all living together, and as Liu-shi had, the family was planning to upscale the liquor business in the upcoming year. Thus, Young Ginseng Spirit thought contributing a portion of funds for the new year celebration would be good.
However, Fang-shi, on the other hand, had a different standpoint. If put in simpler terms, her personality was that of a typical penny-pitcher. She wasn't malicious, just extremely stingy, and was full of calculations on how to benefit from every possible financial gain.
In her eyes, Qi Yun's shop and Qi Zhao's estate were on an entirely different scale. As for the Liquor shop's unusually high gains witnessed last time, Fang-shi merely attributed the incident to unforeseen circumstances, for any business would employ some tactics to keep it running. The shop had been dormant for a long time, so an occasional surge was natural.
Overall, the estate was the main source of income. If they were to contribute money based on Liu-shi's suggestion, she dreaded that they would have to be the ones to contribute a large amount of silver.
In the past, when it was nearing the end of the year, Liu-shi had sometimes asked the same question. Back then, Fang-shi would fix her eyes on Qi Yun, who at that time was just mechanically waiting to succumb to his illness. He had no intentions of managing the store, thus profits were always subpar. Qi Ming had set on a path to become a scholar and didn't have any money to spare either. Consequently, for the sake of maintaining fairness among the three, Liu-shi would not let just Qi Zhao bear the entire amount.
However, now that the shop was making money, her mother-in-law had brought up this topic again and suggested the proportional method. Considering the high amount of profits gained from the farms in the past years, if the amount of contributions were based upon the 1:20, wouldn't they end up giving more?
Actually speaking, that amount of silver still wouldn't be high. Nonetheless, Fang Shi wasn't comfortable with the idea of contributing more than the others. It made her feel as if she was gravely losing out, making her uncomfortable from the inside out.
Thereupon, Fang-shi anxiously asked Liu-shi in a low voice, "Mother, can we change the terms?"
Glancing at her, Liu-shi asked, "How do you want to change them?"
In her heart, Fang-shi's small abacus was rapidly clicking and clacking, as she opened her mouth, "Rather than following the one suggested by mother, how about two branches contributing the same amount and offering equal filial piety? It wouldn't be good for one to outdo the other." With a pause, she continued, "Once I go back, I will let Dalang know that we will be contributing the same amount as the Erdi. We won't contribute any less than them."
Though her choice of words might give an impression that she was trying to favor her Erdi, she was actually helping herself from losing out more than the other.
Fangi-shi's idea was strongly based on her belief that Qi Yun's annual income wouldn't be huge, reducing the amount of contribution and also satisfying Liu-shi's desire for fairness — hitting two birds with one stone!
Among the numerous thoughts that rapidly ran through Liu-shi's mind, the possibility of the profits from Qi Yun's liquor business surpassing the estate's farms never crossed her mind.
Liu-shi was acutely aware of the financial situation of both branches. However, she chose not to speak at that moment and turned her head towards Ye Jiao. "Jiao Niang, do you agree with this?"
In front of Liu Shi, Ye Jiao was always docile and replied, "Xiangoing had asked me to obey mother's words. If you agree to it, I will also agree to it."
Hearing her reply, Liu-shi nodded before turning towards Fang-shi again. With a deep gaze, she softly stated without further explanation, "In that case, we'll do as you suggested."
Fang-shi's round face broke into a brilliant smile, feeling great for having saved some money.
